Knoxville MamaBelle

Say No to Censorship

2012-01-18T17:14:00.002-05:00

Say no to Internet censorship.
Go to http://www.google.com/landing/takeaction/ to sign an on-line petition.

2012 List on When to Buy Stuff at the best prices

2012-01-10T11:06:00.000-05:00

Happy 2012!

Here's a comprehensive list from Life Hacker on when to buy this and that--from kitchen appliances to boots!

The Schedule

Free Christmas fun at your local library

2011-11-28T22:23:00.000-05:00

There's always fun to be had at the library! Here's some upcoming events, times and locations:

A Visit from Santa Claus!

12/1 at 10:30 AM at Burlington Branch
12/5 at 6 pm at Cedar Bluff Branch
12/7 at 11 am at Bearden Branch
12/8 at 6 pm at Powell Branch
12/12 at 4 pm at Corryton Branch
12/13 at 10 am at Norwood Branch
12/13 at 3 pm at Carter Branch
12/13 at 6 pm at North Knoxville Branch
12/14 at 11 am at Lawson McGhee Library
12/14 a t 3 pm at Murphy Branch
12/15 at 11 am at Karns Branch
12/15 at 2 pm at Fountain City Branch

Chanukah Storytimes
Discover and celebrate the Festival of Lights through stories, games, and crafts with storytime extraordinaire, Laurie Fisher.

12/6 at 6 pm at Powell Branch
12/7 at 11 am at Lawson McGhee Library
12/8 at 3 pm at Carter Branch
12/13 at 6:30 pm at Karns Branch
12/14 at 10:30 am at Burlington Branch
12/15 at 3:30 pm at Bearden Branch
12/15 at 6:30 pm at Cedar Bluff Branch

On December 3, they are having a special holiday-themed Saturday Stories and Songs featuring holiday books, tales and sing-a-long classics for the whole family! Perfect to get the day going or to take a little break in the midst of holiday shopping.

Appearing at 10:30 a.m.:
Cedar Bluff with storyteller David Claunch
Fountain City with storyteller Dianne Hackworth
Howard Pinkston with storyteller Millie Seiber
Lawson McGhee Library with baby guru Charlene Ellis

Appearing at 2:30 p.m.:
Burlintgon with storyteller Dianne Hackworth
Karns with storyteller Millie Seiber
Powell with baby guru Charlene Ellis

Kroger 4X fuel points event

2011-11-19T11:13:00.001-05:00

Earn 4X fuel points November 20 through December 11, 2011 at participating Kroger stores!

This is your chance to purchase gift cards you'll be giving as gifts and to purchase gift cards you'll be using yourself at locations ranging from Macy's to Lowe's to JoAnn's to Amazon.

Remember to purchase your cards in multiples of $50 (ie, two $25 cards, and so on).

Stock Up!

Vegetarian Society Potluck Nov 20, 2011

2011-11-13T09:41:00.000-05:00

Looking for a Thanksgiving feast where you won't have to share your dinner table with a turkey?

If so, enjoy a completely vegetarian or vegan potluck annually hosted by the Vegetarian Society of East Tennessee.

This year, the potluck will be Sunday, November 20, 2011, 5:30 with food ready at 6 p.m. at the Knoxville First Seventh Day Adventist Church, 3611 Kingston Pike (next to Laurel Church of Christ).

To attend, you'll need a family-sized (feeds 6-8) vegetarian or vegan dish (with a serving spoon) to share and admission, which is $5 for adults, $2 for children 5-10 years and children under 5 free. You'll be asked to list the ingredients in your dish and label it as vegan or vegetarian.

Enjoy lively conversation and compassionate dining.

For more info call 865-eight zero nine-3502 or e-mail laurabroderick at mindspring dot com.

Lisa Ross Birth & Women's Center 20th anniversary celebration

2011-11-09T08:42:00.001-05:00

The Lisa Ross Birth & Women's Center is celebrating 20 years!

They are having a celebration at New Harvest Park on Saturday, November 19, 1-4 p.m. Details here.

Go grab some applesauce at Target

2011-11-09T08:30:00.000-05:00

I love these new squeezable applesauce packs, and East Target has them on clearance over by the frozen section. $2.02 for a four-pack--applesauce on the go!

Zoo Free Days Nov 12-13

2011-11-03T09:01:00.000-04:00

It's time for Knoxville Zoo's Free day, but this year they are having two of them. I'm very glad since their free day is so popular & crowded that you might hardly be able to get in! This is an especially good time to visit for folks around Tennessee who are too far away to benefit from an annual pass or for those who can't afford one nor the daily rate & parking fee.

Free days are November12-13 (Sat & Sun), from 10 a.m.-3:30 p.m. They close at 4:30.

The event is again being sponsored by Kroger this year, and you should bring a non-perishable item to donate for charity in exchange for the visit.

Thanks, Thrifty Christy

Win tickets to Tinsel and Treasure

2011-11-01T14:09:00.000-04:00

Thrifty Christy and several other bloggers are having giveaways for tickets to the annual Tinsel and Treasure holiday market. Read all the details here and enter to win tickets! Don't forget to watch additional local blogs for more chances to win tickets.

Cruze Farm Halloween Fun

2011-10-26T09:26:00.001-04:00

Unless you've been living in a cave, by now you've heard that Cruze Farm opened up a corn maze this fall. I've been reading and hearing wonderful reviews, and I've finally got plans to go... for Halloween!

Click on the image to enlarge it and see all the details!

Diaper Love event on Market Square

2011-10-26T08:59:00.000-04:00

I received a tip from a friend that Kimberley Clark is partnering with a local charity group, Diaper Love to help needy moms in East Tennessee while raising money for United Way of Greater Knoxville. Kimberly-Clark is donating 100 cases of diapers, 100 cases of training pants, and $2,500 to Diaper Love. The event will take place on Market Square, Thursday, October 27, 2011, from 11 a.m. - 1 p.m.

As part of the event they will be selling 100 Cases of Diapers to the public at a cost of $10/case with 100% of the proceeds going to United Way of Greater Knoxville. For each case donated, Kimberly-Clark will donate an additional case to Diaper Love. Win win.

Event is listed here, but with little info.

If you or someone you know is in desperate need of disposable diapers, this is a great opportunity.

Participate in Feed Knoxville this week

2011-10-25T09:35:00.000-04:00

Feed Knoxville is a week long event to help stamp out hunger in Knoxville. The goal is to raise 100,000 items donated to Second Harvest Food Bank in one week (ends October 28, 2011). All non-perishable food items will be accepted, and can be donated directly to Second Harvest, The Church at Knoxville or at participating Chik-Fil-A locations.

The participating Chik-Fil-A locations will be giving out a free sandwich when you donate three items:

Oak Ridge
357 S Illinois Ave Oak Ridge, TN 37830
(865) 481-3638

Crown Point Plaza
6564 Clinton Hwy Knoxville, TN 37912
(865) 947-2416

Turkey Creek
10916 Parkside Dr Knoxville, TN 37934
(865) 675-7400

Kingston Overlook
9646 Kingston Pike Knoxville, TN 37922
(865) 691-7400

West Town Mall
7063 Kingston Pike Knoxville, TN 37919
(865) 588-0100

Morristown
2141 W Andrew Johnson Hwy Morristown, TN 37814
(423) 581-8181

Hunter’s Crossing
1031 Hunter’s Crossing Drive Alcoa, TN 37701
(865) 981-9993

Chapman Highway
7565 Mountain Grove Dr Knoxville, TN 37920
(865) 573-0023

Cloth diaper clearance

2011-10-23T21:03:00.000-04:00

Swaddlebee's brand cloth diapers has some great on-line clearance deals on irregular diapers (prices around $11)! Check them out here! A friend also has told me that although it isn't listed on the Website, they do have a local store last she knew, which would save locals on shipping costs. Contact them for the full scoop.

Thanks, Rachel!

"Mini" book sale this weekend at Burlington Branch Library

2011-10-20T10:18:00.000-04:00

Friends of the Library is holding a mini book sale this fall:

Saturday, October 22, 2011, 2-6 p.m. at the Burlington Branch Library.

Come browse! There will be books for every interest, both fiction and non-fiction, and especially lots of children's books. It should be a great day for fall readers!

Fall Festival at local church

2011-10-17T09:33:00.000-04:00

Ahhh Fall, I love all the festivals! A friend of mine wanted to get word out about a Fall Festival at her church-October 26, 2011.

Here's the details:

Come one come all, from the smallest babes to the most grown adults, the 2011 Fall Festival has something for everyone! The grounds of Second Presbyterian Church will be covered with games, activities, candy, and prizes to celebrate the magnificent arrival of fall! Wear your most creative costume (please, nothing scary) and come ready to play. There will be loads of "trunks and treats!" One very lucky person will win a plane flight over Knoxville! Plus, many more prizes to win! This is a party you do not want to miss!

Dinner 5:30-6:30

Festival 6:00-7:00

Contact the church office or kfitch@2ndpres.org for more information.

Address: 2829 Kingston Pike, Knoxville, Tennessee 37919
Phone: (865) 523-2189

World Market Friends & Family Event, 25% off

2011-10-06T08:25:00.000-04:00

It's a good weekend to shop, and of course I have no time this weekend!

World Market is also having an event for members of their rewards program--so sign up if you haven't already!!!

Big Lots--20% off again

2011-10-06T08:15:00.000-04:00

Buzz club members get 20% off their purchase on Saturday night, Oct 14, and regular shoppers get 20% with a coupon on Sunday, Oct 9. I received this coupon in my buzz club email! So, if you haven't signed up, do so!

Remember, to get this discount, you must present your buzzclub membership card and submit the coupon. Sign up for the Buzz Club at http://www.biglots.com/.

Thrift Store Sale Oct 7-9

2011-10-06T08:06:00.001-04:00

American Council of the Blind Thrift Store is having an October Special--50% off!!! Friday-Sunday (Oct 7-9). The sale excludes furniture and seasonal items.

This store is quickly becoming another favorite of mine. In fact, last week I found the PERFECT dress for my Halloween outfit (top secret)!

The store has moved locations, and is no longer next to Northern Tool. They are now located closer to Merchants Drive in the Clinton Plaza Shopping Center near Food City and Ace Hardware at 5032 Clinton Highway. The phone number is still the same--865-688-5884.

In other thrift store news, Amvets Thrift Store off Asheville Highway & Holston Drive currently has short-sleeved shirts at $1 each!

Happy Shopping!

Mambo Sprouts Boo! Giveaway

2011-10-03T10:31:00.000-04:00

Mambo Sprouts is a great place to find organic coupons! And, they have lots of giveaways--right now they are having a giveaway for Halloween from their Facebook page. <---go there to enter!

Saturday Stories and Songs at the Library, 2011

2011-09-30T09:00:00.000-04:00

My librarian let me know there's good news for those who aren't able to visit the library during the day--Saturday Stories and Songs is running again!

From Knox Co. Library:

It's music to our ears! We've expanded family programming on weekends. Saturday Stories and Songs will have everyone tapping their toes and sitting on the edge of their seats. This free series showcases storytelling and music for children of all ages, perfect for patrons who are not able to attend weekday storytimes. This year, programming has been expanded from four to seven locations, and programs for babies have been added to line-up.

There is an evening story time each week at the downtown library, but if Saturday is your only option, check out the schedule:

October 1
Cedar Bluff Branch, 10:30 a.m., storyteller Faye Wooden
Fountain City Branch, 10:30 a.m., dog-themed storytime with Laurie Fisher & Darla Dunn
Burlington Branch, 2:30 p.m., storyteller Faye Wooden
Karns Branch, 2:30 p.m., dog-themed storytime with Laurie Fisher & Darla Dunn

October 8
Lawson McGhee Library, 10:30 a.m., storyteller Faye Wooden
Howard Pinkston Branch, 10:30 a.m., One World Circus
Powell Branch, 2:30 p.m., One World Circus

October 15
Cedar Bluff Branch, 10:30 a.m., One World Circus
Fountain City Branch, 10:30 a.m., lap sit storytime with Charlene Ellis
Burlington Branch, 2:30 p.m., musician Sean McCollough
Karns Branch, 2:30 p.m., lap sit storytime with Charlene Ellis

October 22 (Halloween Themed!)
Lawson McGhee Library, 10:30 a.m., storyteller Millie Sieber
Howard Pinkston Branch, 10:30 a.m., storyteller Faye Wooden
Powell Branch, 2:30 p.m., storyteller Faye Wooden

November 5
Cedar Bluff Branch, 10:30 a.m., dog-themed storytime with Laurie Fisher & Darla Dunn
Fountain City Branch, 10:30 a.m., One World Circus
Burlington Branch, 2:30 p.m., dog-themed storytime with Laurie Fisher & Darla Dunn
Karns Branch, 2:30 p.m., storyteller Sean McCullough

November 12
Lawson McGhee Library, 10:30 a.m., dog-themed storytime with Laurie Fisher & Darla Dunn
Howard Pinkston Branch, 10:30 a.m., lap sit storytime with Charlene Ellis
Powell Branch, 2:30 p.m., dog-themed storytime with Laurie Fisher & Darla Dunn

November 19
Cedar Bluff Branch, 10:30 a.m., storyteller Dianne Hackworth
Fountain City Branch, 10:30 a.m., storyteller Faye Wooden
Burlington Branch, 2:30 p.m., Smoky Mountain Storytellers' Tellebration
Karns Branch, 2:30 p.m., storyteller Faye Wooden

November 26
Due to Thanksgiving Break, programs have been moved to December 3. Happy Thanksgiving!

December 3 (Holiday Themed!)
Burlington Branch, 2:30 p.m., storyteller Dianne Hackworth
Cedar Bluff Branch, 10:30 a.m., storyteller David Claunch
Lawson McGhee Library, 10:30 a.m., lap sit storytime with Charlene Ellis
Fountain City Branch, 10:30 a.m., storyteller Dianne Hackworth
Howard Pinkston Branch, 10:30 a.m., storyteller Millie Sieber
Karns Branch, 2:30 p.m., storyteller Millie Sieber
Powell Branch, 2:30 p.m., lap sit storytime with Charlene Ellis

Haunted Tour at Ijams Nature Center

2011-09-24T12:20:00.000-04:00

Haunted Lantern Tour at Ijams Nature Center, Saturday October 1 at 7:30 p.m.

Ijams brings you a unique opportunity to experience a new spooky side of Knoxville. So get a head start on Halloween and join us for a special Haunted Lantern Tour of Mead's Quarry and the Ross Marble Natural Area.

Led by Ijams' Naturalist's Lyn Bales and Sabrina DeVault with author Pat Fitzhugh this unique walking tour takes in Ijams' disused quarries with their own dark pasts for an informative yet hauntingly fun adventure in search of the infamous, the unknown, and the unexplained.

Meet at Mead's Quarry parking area at 7:30 pm. Please dress appropriately for the weather and wear comfortable shoes. This program is for adults and children, ages 10 and up only.

Space is limited and pre-registration is required. Cost is $10 for non members and $7 for Ijams members. Register now to avoid disappointment by calling 865-577-4717 ext. 110 or email sabrina@ijams.org for more information.

Couponing in Critical Times to offer couponing workshop

2011-09-23T13:55:00.000-04:00

Gabrielle of Couponing in Critical Times is offering her next coupon workshop on Sunday, October 9, 2 p.m. at Faith United Methodist Church. Admission is "free," with a $5 donation to the church's outreach programs.

If you want to learn more about couponing, I highly recommend her workshops!

Halls Cinema 7 free movies

2011-09-22T13:12:00.004-04:00

**UPDATE** Hubby went, but no-one was there. Apparently, this may not being going on afterall, or perhaps it was cancelled. Call ahead before you plan an outing.

Halls Cinema 7 is offering free movies every Saturday morning at 10 a.m., now through the end of 2011. This seems like a great way for me to get some me-time at home!

Here's the schedule:

discount concession packages too.
Movie titles subject to change without notice:
September 10 – All Dogs Go To Heaven G)
September 17 – The Wizard of Oz (G)
September 24 – Tangled (PG)
October 1 – Kung Fu Panda (PG)
October 8 – Rio (G)
October 15 – Gnomeo & Juliet (G)
October 22 – Hoodwinked Too (PG)
October 29 – Casper (PG)
November 5 – Cars (G)
November 12 – Happy Feet (PG)
November 19 – The Muppet Movie (G)
November 26 – Beverly Hills Chihuahua 2 (PG)
December 3 – Ramona & Beezus (G)
December 10 – Alvin and the Chipmunks 2 (PG)
December 17 – Despicable Me (PG)
December 24 – Toy Story 3 (G)
December 31 – Diary of a Wimpy Kid 2 (PG)

Thank you, Knox to do!

Rain Barrel Workshop

2011-09-21T13:50:00.001-04:00

It's another rain barrel workshop! Attending a workshop gives you an opportunity to learn more about them and get one at a MUCH more affordable price than purchasing one outright. They are simple to put together. Here's the details on the next one:

Workshop Includes:

Rain Barrel
Supplies for installation of your rain barrel
Instructional demonstration
Benefits of using rain barrels

Tuesday, October 4, 2011, 6-8 p.m. in the Large Conference Room at Ijam's Visitor Center

Cost is $45 per barrel

Space is Limited! To register, please reserve here. For questions, contact the Fort Loudoun Lake Association Office, 865.523.3800 or email info@fllake.org. Registration is limited to the first 25 rain barrels reserved with payment.

Presented by

Fort Loudoun Lake Association

Tennessee Yards and Neighborhoods

Water Quality Forum

--Thank you so much to the above groups for having these workshops!

Three River's Market Coupon Match-ups

2011-09-20T14:12:00.000-04:00

Couponing in Critical Times has your Three River's Market coupon match-ups here.

Knoxmoms.com is no longer, but Ali James is picking up the slack

2011-09-14T14:25:00.000-04:00

Many agree that one of the best features of Knoxmoms.com was the datebook--a calendar type resource filled to the brim with activities going on around town. Any time I hit a planning rut or curb, I knew I could check the calendar and probably find something fun to do that very day.

But, the site is no longer (now it is on Facebook only), and Ali James, who was the head mom is picking up the slack with a new blog, Knox To Do: Play, See, Learn, Do. On it she has a calendar of events--set up in Google calendar (meaning I can just copy the items I like and place them on my own calendar!).

Ali helped launch Knoxmoms.com in 2007, has three sons and is a freelance writer. She enjoys blogging, cooking and crafting and is now a full-time stay-at-home mom.

So, bookmark her new blog, her calendar, and friend her on Facebook to keep up with all the local happenings!

And if you know of a great activity, consignment sale or other fun event, email her at knoxtodo@gmail.com, and she'll share it with her network of local families!

Ripley's Aquarium Teacher Appreciation

2011-09-09T09:13:00.000-04:00

Ripley's Aquarium's Teacher Appreciation days are Sep 24 and 25 this year. They also have a home school rate and educational programs! For more information, visit Thrifty Christy.

2011-09-07T08:41:00.016-04:00

Join Slow Food Knoxville for their 4th annual Pesto Festo--Check out the Facebook event page for more details.

The event will be held at a farm in Pioneer, TN, September 24.

Tickets for this year's event are $50 per adult ticket and $45 for members. Tickets will be sold online at www.brownpapertickets.com (with a service charge) and at the Market Square Farmer's Market on August 27th and September 10th, 2011 at the Slow Food Knoxville booth.

Earth Fare matchups through September 27

2011-09-05T09:00:00.000-04:00

Frugally Farming Family has your coupon matchups for Earth Fare here.

Blender and Mason Jar Trick

2011-09-04T08:32:00.000-04:00

From Simply Recipes

Do I really need that nut chopper? And, can I afford a food processor? If you can't or don't want to, check out this post from Simply Recipes.

Did you know that you can (most likely) use a Mason jar on your blender? It's especially useful for making things like peanut butter, whipped cream, chopped nuts... and the list goes on.

Thanks, mom!

American Council of the Blind Thrift Store Labor Day Sale

2011-09-01T09:20:00.000-04:00

American Council of the Blind Thrift Store is having a Labor Day Sale--50% off!!! Friday-Monday (Sep 2-5).

The store has moved locations and is no longer next to Northern Tool. They are now located closer to Merchants Drive in the Clinton Plaza Shopping Center near Food City and Ace Hardware at 5032 Clinton Highway. The phone number is still the same--865-688-5884.

Ladies Night OUT!

2011-09-01T08:46:00.000-04:00

Ladies Night or Moms Night Out---Oh, how I love those words!

I'm busy getting ready for an upcoming Ladies Night Out event at Faith United Methodist Church on Thursday, September 15, 6-8 p.m. Admission is free, and there will be door prizes, snacks and fun vendors including me! (Isha's Flower Garden, Etsy & Facebook)

This fun event is a chance to have fun and get a jump-start on your Holiday shopping--Many thanks for Couponing in Critical Times for planning this fun event!

Ladies Night Out is an annual event held at Faith United Methodist Church, which is located at 1120 Dry Gap Pike, Knoxville, 37918.

For more information, check out Couponing in Critical Time's post, and join Ladies Night Out on Facebook.

Free Photo ID for Children

2011-08-19T13:21:00.000-04:00

I saw this on Knoxmoms and wish I had posted sooner.

The schedule:

Friday, August 19th from 1-7pm at Knoxville Center Mall

Saturday, August 20th from 11am-5pm at West Town Mall

Sunday, August 21 from 12pm-6pm at Foothills Mall

If you might be in one of these areas today, tomorrow or Sunday, Couponing in Critical Times has the details on how you can get a photo ID for your little ones here.

Cutie Tooties Cloth Diapers Grand Re-Opening

2011-08-19T13:17:00.001-04:00

Cutie Tooties Cloth Diaper Store is having a party. Their new storefront is located at 5415 Kingston Pike, Suite C, in Bearden. Phone: 865-583-3882

Check out the details below from the newsletter:

August 20 from 1-3 p.m. is the official re-opening party. Please come in for snacks, mingling, and prizes!

We got a HUGE shipment of Melissa & Doug toys in last week. I'm hoping to have them all out & ready to go by the party on Saturday.

Cutie Tooties is offering a variety of classes now. Every Wednesday morning at 11 a.m. Shelby Shankland will be holding a breast feeding support group. Wed, Aug 17 Lori Wade taught a class on "what is a doula & are they worth the cost." class calendar Please check out the calendar for a full listing of classes. You can also stop by the store and pick up a hard copy.

The consignment bins are ready to be filled! Bring in your items to drop off or stop by to check out what is already in there. I'm keeping the guidelines the same as before - you get 60% store credit. Cutie Tooties can't be responsible for lost/stolen items. You can consign diapers and carriers.

If you haven't already please like us on FaceBook. Every Wed I'll be announcing a sale item on FaceBook, the sale will be good for that day only.

Veg Survey

2011-08-15T21:35:00.000-04:00

If you're a vegetarian or vegan, you might want to participate in a survey by VegNews.com.

I learned about it because a "local" (Asheville, NC) restaurant, The Laughing Seed, was nominated for best casual dining. So, go vote for them and enter to win some great veg-friendly prizes! Survey

Palavah Hut Liberian Restaurant Event this Saturday

2011-08-11T08:54:00.000-04:00

Knoxville's Liberian Restaurant, Palavah Hut, is hosting an event this coming Saturday, August 13, 2011: A Day Under the Palavah Hut from 4-6 p.m.

(click to enlarge)

Learn about Liberian culture, cuisine and sample authentic dishes (including vegetarian friendly options). The Palavah Hut is located at 1931 Magnolia Avenue near Downtown Knoxville.

Connect with Palavah Hut on Facebook.

BlueOut Knoxville Fundraiser

2011-08-11T08:45:00.000-04:00

Three local companies with blue in their names have come together to sponsor an event to give $5000 to a local charity. It's called BlueOut Knoxville. Nominating is fast and free and runs through August.

The big event is on Thursday, September 29 when BlueOut Knoxville will host an end of summer party celebrating all things blue such as Bluegrass and Blue Moon and Bleu Cheese Coleslaw.

To get started, check out all the details at BlueOut Knoxville and nominate your favorite charity by August 31, 2011.

Thank you, Blue Frog Creations!

Brand New Farmer's Market in Turkey Creek, Opens August 12

2011-08-08T11:09:00.001-04:00

A new market is coming soon to Turkey Creek!

From their Website (click to learn more):

The Turkey Creek Public Market Farmer's Market Plaza will open Friday, August 12 and normally be open weekends, Friday - Sunday 8 a.m.-5 p.m..

The Farmer's Market Plaza is a covered outdoor marketplace attached to the new Turkey Creek Public Market on Outlet Drive off Lovell Road. The market has 600 indoor booths that include food vendors, and an event/gathering space.

Even more booths are in outdoor marketplace to host locally grown produce, farm products, and handcrafted art.

Free educational programs, cooking demonstrations and family activities will be presented throughout the year and will include topics on healthy cooking, organic gardening, local agriculture, and sustainable living.

Learn more!

Home Depot Garden Club

2011-08-03T20:26:00.000-04:00

Every once in a while, I want to remind you to join the Home Depot's Garden Club. They send coupons!
Today I received one of $10 off a rain barrel. Here's the barrel they sell:

Click on the image to enlarge it.

Sam's Club Open House August 5-7, 2011

2011-08-01T21:20:00.000-04:00

Sam's Club is opening its doors for an open house August 5-7 this year. It's back to school savings time--and both members and non-members can shop till they drop!

For all the details, view the Sam's Club press release here.

East Knoxville Picnic in the Park

2011-07-30T19:35:00.001-04:00

Come on out!

Town Hall East, Inc. presents the first "Our Neighborhood PICNIC in the PARK" on Thursday evening, August 4, 2011 from 5:30-8:00 p.m.

The PICNIC is for area neighbors to meet, learn about plans for further development of the Tank Strickland Park, new development goals for the east Knoxville area, enjoy the musical talents of our East Tennessee neighbors and learn how you can become involved. We are inviting local city and county representatives as well as candidates for the upcoming election. We hope you can join us for free food, fun and music. We'll keep serving until we run out of food. We hope to see you there!

For more information, please check the Town Hall East website at http://www.townhalleast.com or
on Facebook at http://www.facebook.com/townhalleast.

Jack and Jules Consignment Sale July

2011-07-25T09:24:00.000-04:00

I can't believe it's already back-to-school, fall consignment time, but here it is! The Jack and Jules Consignment sale is coming up this week, July 28-30, 2011. They have a new location in the former Linens N Things in Turkey Creek--11020 Parkside Drive.

July 28-29, Thu-Fri, 10 a.m.- 8 p.m.
July 30, Sat, Half Price, 10 a.m. - 4 p.m.

Join them on Facebook.

Knoxville News Sentinel's Coupon Expo to be led by blogger Gabrielle Blake

2011-07-24T18:49:00.000-04:00

Coupon blogger, Gabrielle Blake is going to be the workshop presenter for the Knoxville News Sentinel's
Coupon Expo on Saturday, July 30 from 9 a.m.-12 p.m. I highly recommend her workshops!

The workshop is from 10 a.m.-12 p.m. in a separate room. There are only 75 spaces available and the cost of admission includes a 10 week trial Sunday subscription to the News Sentinel. You can go here to register or phone 865-342-6118. A portion of each ticket will go to Faith UMC's Food Pantry, which Blake organizes, so you know that's money well spent.

Also from 9-12, there will be free Informational Booths which will include a coupon swap table hosted by the Swap 2 Save Coupon Club, and a freebie swap table hosted by Faith UMC, Three Rivers Market, Little Red Hen Consignment Tagging Service, Duck Duck Goose Consignment Sales, Corner of Your Field with KARM Thrift Stores, and One Call Club for Seniors and booths hosted by the Knoxville News Sentinel will be in the lobby with no admission fee required to visit those.

For more information about this event, please visit Couponing in Critical Times.

Featured on Couponing in Critical Times

2011-07-21T21:54:00.000-04:00

Recently, Couponing in Critical Times featured this blog! Thank You!

She is featuring several local bloggers over the summer, and I am grateful to be included.

Check out her blog and her other local blogger highlights on her page, www.couponingincriticaltimes.blogspot.com. You can read the post here.

Fresh Air Fund still needs host families for Summer 2011

2011-07-21T07:08:00.000-04:00

A couple weeks ago I was contacted by someone from the Fresh Air Fund. FAF, an independent, not-for-profit agency, has provided free summer vacations to more than 1.7 million New York City children from low-income communities since 1877.

I was contacted because they are still in need of 850 host families for this summer. Host families are volunteers who open their hearts and homes to children from the city to give them a "fresh air experience." Participating children are often from families without the resources to send their children on summer vacations. Most inner-city youngsters grow up in towering apartment buildings without large, open, outdoor play spaces. Concrete playgrounds cannot replace the freedom of running barefoot through the grass or riding bikes down country lanes.

This program's purpose tugs at me because I live here--in beautiful Tennessee on purpose. A few weeks ago, I walked onto my porch and accidentally scared away a deer who had been eating less than ten feet away. I regularly see wild turkey, bunnies and numerous wildlife right here at my own home, and I don't live in the mountains. Some of my favorite memories as a child are of running freely with my dog through the woods and creeks near my home.

Unfortunately, however, Tennessee is not on their list, so I can't be a host, but the Fresh Air representative was hoping I could still spread the word about their efforts and need for host families. If you know of someone who could host and lives in the areas below, let them know about the program.

For more information, visit their site.

Giveaway of Canning Supplies

2011-07-20T21:54:00.000-04:00

Thrifty Christy is having a giveaway of a few canning supplies--she has five items, so there will be five winners! Check out her blog post for all the details on how to enter.

This year I'm not preserving much food because of lack of space where I currently live and because I'll be moving before long. I did, however, freeze a few blueberries. After all, I can't survive the winter without hot blueberry muffins!

Did you make it to Big Lots this weekend?

2011-07-19T18:22:00.000-04:00

I did, and here's one thing I found that I wanted to share:

$1.00 each with several choices:

This weekend, get 20% off your purchase at Big Lots

2011-07-15T14:16:00.000-04:00

Buzz club members get 20% off their purchase with a coupon they receive in their email. So, if you haven't signed up, do so! Offer is good Saturday and Sunday, July 16-17.

Remember, to get this discount, you must present your buzzclub membership card and submit the coupon. Sign up for the Buzz Club at http://www.biglots.com/.

I'll be buying a few food and cleaning supplies!

Free fun at UT Gardens

2011-07-14T09:29:00.000-04:00

Take a Stride and Learn at the UT Gardens in Knoxville!

Learn more about plants and gardening while enjoying special walks through the gardens in Knoxville. We are excited to have a variety of monthly walks. Walks are rain or shine, and will be cancelled only in the event of dangerous lightening. All walks are FREE and meet at the entrance to the Gardens. (Advance registration appreciated, but not required.)

Noon and Twilight Tours

Tours will be held every third Tuesday of the month: July 19, August 16, September 20 and October 18. The noon tour will begin at 12 p.m., and the twilight tour will begin at 6 p.m. Tours depart from the Friendship Plaza at the entrance to the UT Gardens, Knoxville.

Photography Walks

Learn how to capture a perfect garden photograph while enjoying an early morning walk through the gardens. A member of our staff will lead an hour-long walk focusing on the best lighting and garden location during that particular walk. This event is a unique opportunity to have time with fellow photographers and garden lovers while having some serious photography time in the garden. Photography walks will be held every third Friday: July 15 and August 19. Walks begin at 7:30 a.m. and depart from the Friendship Plaza at the entrance to the Gardens in Knoxville.

Family Nature Nights

Learn about the plants and animals that come out in the evening! Wear your walking shoes and let us guide you and your family through the Gardens during twilight.

Taste Buds - Tuesday, August 2, 6:30 p.m.

Going on a Bug Hunt - Tuesday, September 6, 6:30 p.m

PF Chang's offering free lettuce wraps

2011-07-13T21:21:00.000-04:00

PF Chang's Restaurants are giving away free lettuce wraps with any food or drink purchase between July 6 and July 31, 2011.

To get the offer, you must go through their Facebook page and follow the directions from there to get your offer: www.facebook.com/pfchangs.

Are you an AC Moore Reward Card Member?

2011-07-12T09:27:00.001-04:00

Are you an AC Moore Arts & Crafts store Reward member? If so, you can take advantage of their "Make and Take" summer craft activities for kids every Wednesday this summer from 3-5 p.m. Sounds pretty cool.... but it gets better--this week, they sent me an email for $10 off my $25 purchase if used during the event!

Remember, this is just for AC Moore Reward members, so be sure to sign up!

Etsy Hairbow Giveaway

2011-07-12T09:14:00.000-04:00

A friend of mine is hosting a giveaway for this lovely hair bow from her Etsy shop!

Entering is easy:

1. Like Moosie's Caboose on Facebook (if you don't already):
https://www.facebook.com/pages/Moosies-Caboose/145179755503112

2. Scan through the photo album "Girls' Hair Things" and comment on your favorite bow.

Giveaway ends Friday, 7/15/11.

Frugalissa Finds coupon workshop

2011-06-28T10:30:00.000-04:00

I wanted to remind you that Frugalissa Finds has been giving couponing workshops--the next one is Tuesday, Juy 12, 7 p.m. at Earth Fare in Bearden.

You do have to sign up because space is limited! Sign up here.

Bra donations--another Free the Girls event

2011-06-23T08:38:00.001-04:00

Calling East Tennessee Free The Girls fans! Come donate your bras in Alcoa, TN on Sunday, July 10 from 10am-2pm! We will be set up in the Chick-fil-a parking lot. Our last bra drive on May 16 brought in 1,850 chances to change someones life-give or take a few cups. Let's double that number...this will be a rummage sale-type event.

Contact Aryn Faughnan at arynf04 (at) gmail (dot) com for more information.

Can the old bras in the back of your underwear drawer help fight modern day slavery? Free The Girls says, “YES!” Free The Girls, a new cause-focused company centered around fighting human trafficking, is asking ladies to gather up their gently used bras—and ask friends, family, co-workers and local businesses to do the same.

You can also mail your bras directly to:
Free The Girls LLC
8200 S. Quebec St. #A3-137
Centennial, CO 80112

More Info:

“The bras are sent directly to a safehouse in Mozambique for women who have been rescued out of slavery,” says Kimba Langas, Co-Founder of Free The Girls. “The girls are given the bras as starting inventory for their own micro-business selling the bras. So something that has given us “support” can provide support to other women in need. It’s all about creating opportunities.”

For more information, visit www.freethegirls.com or find them on Facebook.

Crafting supplies at Big Lots

2011-06-22T19:53:00.000-04:00

I recently visited the Big Lots on Broadway and was blown away by the number of clear, acrylic stamping collections they had. And the price? $2!

If I had to guess, I'd say there were 30-40 different choices of stamp sets. Well worth your time!

Here's what I got!

Hair Flowers, my newest hobby: a giveaway!

2011-06-17T15:56:00.000-04:00

light purple ranunculus

My newest hobby has recently turned into something more. I opened an Etsy shop to sell hair flower, feather and other unique clips. I've got many, many more to upload on Etsy and lots more ideas, too. I named it Isha's Flower Garden (so that it's easily searchable) and have also created a Facebook page for it.

So.... of course I must have giveaways!

I'm currently offering this hint of purple ranunculus flower to Facebook fans. To enter, you have to "like" Isha's Flower Garden on Facebook and "like" the post about the giveaway.

Locals can avoid shipping charges and receive lower prices by meeting me when making an order. Here are some of the kind of offerings:

Equal Exchange Coffee, coupon and giveaway

2011-06-17T08:01:00.000-04:00

I'm not a coffee drinker, but it seems a coupon like this is uncommon, so go here and print a coupon for $1.25 off Equal Exchange fair-trade coffee. They are also having a giveaway:

Win a year’s supply of coffee, delivered to your door or be one of two runner-up winners of a 3 month coffee of the month subscription. To enter, visit shop.equalexchange.com and find the “hidden” beans on our website. Click on the beans and you will be taken to an entry form where you can sign up to win.

Weigels now has no-fee ATMs

2011-06-16T08:29:00.000-04:00

Said it all in the title! Weigel stores now have no-fee ATM machines inside. It's about time!

Thanks, husband

RARE free zoo admission for Father's Day, June 19, 2011

2011-06-13T16:13:00.000-04:00

From my Knoxville Zoo e-newsletter today:

Double Dare Your Dad this Father's Day!

Sunday, June 19, 2011

Do you have a daring dad? Dare him to bring you to the zoo this Father's Day! If he accepts your dare, he'll get free admission.Dare your dad to ride a tiger (on the carousel of course), get a tattoo (just a temporary one) or even put his head in an alligator's mouth (don't worry, it's just a statue). You and your daring dad can even win great prizes. Join our Double Dad Dare Challenge to find the animal dad at the zoo with the most kids, the oldest animal dad and more!Want to really dare your dad for Father's Day? Then Double DOG Dare him at the Animals in Action show where you can see some of our favorite canines in action!So Dad, do you dare to bring your kids to the zoo this Father's Day - We Double Dad Dare Ya!

That's right, June 19, 2011, Father's Day, dads will receive free admission with a paid child admission!

Their offer is not valid with any other coupon or promotion.

Ordering Coupons

2011-06-12T21:28:00.000-04:00

Sometimes a coupon gets me so excited that I just have to have more of them. When that happens, and I know it's a popular coupon (one that won't show up at coupon swaps), I get on www.thecouponclippers.com to see what I can find.

Today's was bestlife buttery spread.

Many don't buy coupons, but I do occasionally, especially if it's a product I can store for a long period or use a lot of no matter if the item is on sale or not. Also, I only order ones I will definitely use.

Margarines can be frozen. Sometimes the consistency changes a little, but that doesn't bother me. I haven't before frozen bestlife's product, so we'll see how it goes.

Here's how an order might look from the coupon clippers (the photos are extra large so you can see what it'll look like, though the image won't look good on the blog):

Target printables on Morningstar Farms and Boca

2011-06-10T17:06:00.002-04:00

If you use these brands, go to www.target.com to print $1.00 off two Morningstar Farms burger product coupon and a $1 off Boca product coupon. You can then stack these with manufacturer coupons you might happen to have.

Free Father's Day offers

2011-06-09T09:59:00.003-04:00

I'm sure there are more, but here are some Father's Day card offers I'm aware of. After all, many of us have several fathers in our lives: fathers, biological fathers, step-fathers, grandfathers, father-figures, fathers-in-law, step-fathers-in-law, adoptive fathers, husbands, great-grandfathers, social fathers, .... so some of you might need several options!

Free Father's Day...

8x10 collage print from Walgreens, thanks Sharing Savings With You

Card offer from Tiny Prints, updated, new link, thanks Coupon Katie

Card offer from PaperSnaps, thanks Sharing Savings With You

Freebies from Vistaprint, thanks Sharing Savings With You

Craft idea e-book, thanks Coupon Katie

underwear or shirt, thanks Coupon Katie

And that's all I've found so far, but don't fret, there's bound to be more deals this coming week.

Mambo Sprouts: new coupons

2011-06-07T16:39:00.000-04:00

The new summer messenger from Mambo Sprouts arrived--that means it's time to print some coupons.

And this month you can enter to win a farm share.

Forks Over Knives playing in Knoxville Starting June 10

2011-06-06T22:49:00.002-04:00

Forks Over Knives is a new documentary about our food; "A film that," Roger Ebert says, "can save your life."

From the Facebook page:

FORKS OVER KNIVES examines the profound claim that most, if not all, of the degenerative diseases that afflict us can be controlled, or even reversed, by rejecting our present menu of animal-based and processed foods.

See this movie.

KNOXVILLE, TN (Begins June 10 and plays for minimum of one week)
Downtown West Cinema 8 (Regal), 1640 Downtown Blvd., Knoxville, TN 37919. Fandango.

Thanks, mom!

More Summer Movies on the cheap

2011-06-01T13:09:00.000-04:00

Carmike Cinemas is also offering a family friendly summer movie series on Thursday mornings at participating locations. $1 admission to sit in the cool A/C.

Thanks, Coupon Katie

Three River's Market Coupon Match-ups

2011-06-01T13:04:00.000-04:00

Couponing in Critical Times has your matchups ready for Three Rivers Market--now through June 14.

Regal Summer Movies start June 7

2011-05-27T08:17:00.000-04:00

It's about that time! Kick off summer movie fun on June 7 with the Regal Summer Movie series of selected G and PG movies. Instead of being free, this year the admission price is $1, BUT a portion of the proceeds will go to a charitable cause.

For a list of movies in your area, go here--Tennessee List.

Kroger 4X fuel points event

2011-05-23T18:03:00.000-04:00

In case you missed the news--Kroger is again having a 4X the fuel points on gift card purchases event! Purchase gift cards to places you frequent in $50 increments and receive 200 fuel points for each $50 spent. I am definitely going to take advantage of this one!

Offer is good now through June 18, 2011.

Upcoming Rain Barrel Workshop

2011-05-20T10:33:00.001-04:00

I try to keep up with rain barrel workshops. Attending a workshop gives you an opportunity to learn more about them and get one at a MUCH more affordable price than purchasing one outright. They are simple to put together. Here's the details on the next one:

Workshop Includes:

Rain Barrel
Supplies for installation of your rain barrel
Instructional demonstration
Benefits of using rain barrels

Tuesday, June 7, 2011, 6-8 p.m. in the Large Conference Room at Ijam's Visitor Center

Cost is $45 per barrel

Space is Limited! To register, please contact the Fort Loudoun Lake Association Office and specify the number of barrels you would like to pick up. 865.523.3800 or email info@fllake.org

Presented by

Fort Loudoun Lake Association

Tennessee Yards and Neighborhoods

Water Quality Forum

--Thank you so much to the above groups for having these workshops!

Birding Program Offered at New Harvest Farmer's Market

2011-05-17T09:14:00.000-04:00

Ijam's Nature Center is offering a birding adventure at the New Harvest Farmer's Market this Thursday, May 19. Keep up with the happenings at this market by liking their Facebook page and signing up for their newsletter.

The first program, which will be for adults, is from 2 p.m. - 3 p.m. The second program, which will be for children and their families, is from 3 p.m. - 4 p.m. The program will cover an introduction to birding (how to use binoculars and field guides), as well as covering the common birds of this area. If you have binoculars, please bring them. If you don't - that's o.k., too. Wear comfortable walking shoes for our walk around the park to identify birds. The program is presented by Emily Boves, a naturalist/educator at Ijams who has been birding across the U.S. for 10 years.

Please contact them if you plan to attend by clicking the "newsletter" link above.

MorningStar Farms Coupon

2011-05-17T08:20:00.000-04:00

MorningStar Farms has a printable coupon available. Go to Your Green Helper and click the link.

It will take you directly to the coupon. After it starts printing, hit the back button on your browser to print your second one.

Sam's Club Membership: $10 for 10 weeks

2011-05-16T21:14:00.000-04:00

Sam's Club is offering a summer membership at their stores. It's $10 for ten weeks. Visit Sam's Club on-line for the details. This offer is good now through June 5.

Thanks, Thrifty Christy!

Summer Reading at the Library

2011-05-11T11:08:00.000-04:00

Speaking of the library, don't forget to sign up for summer reading programs:

Sign up as a Reader or a Listener online or at any library location. Readers read for 15 hours. Listeners (for those not quite reading yet) listen to 30 books being read to them. You can pick up a reading log at any Library location, or download one (for Readers or for Listeners).To keep you going, there are great special events all summer long throughout the county. Keep track of your reading as you go--pick up a reading log at any library location. And at the end, you get a prize pack full of fantastic coupons, games and more!

We Have Great Programs All Summer Long! And this isn't even half--check out our event calendar for a complete schedule, or pick up a summer Off the Shelf at any Library location.

When your young reader or listener completes the summer reading:

Our youngest readers win a great age-appropriate toy--an animal hand puppet (variety of animals). Older readers (5 and up) win a reward book full of free stuff to do and tasty summer snacks.

Admission to:
Knoxville Zoo
East Tennessee Discovery Center
Women's Basketball Hall of Fame
Tennessee Valley Fair
East Tennessee History Center
UT Lady Vols Soccer Game
UT Lady Vols Softball Game
YMCA Swimming Pool
Blount Mansion

Food From:
Rita's Italian Ice
Bruester's

Adventure and Activities
A Free Week of Classes and a Free Day at Summer Camp at The Little Gym
A Round of Mini Golf at Zuma Fun Center
Ice skating at Knoxville's Holidays on Ice
Bowling at Strike & Spare Family Fun Center

NEW This Year!
Everyone who completes either a listener or reader log will automatically be entered to win one of 4 Nook eReaders!

In addition, both teens and adults can also register for summer reading.

Dollywood's Penguin Players performing "Otis" starting May 23

2011-05-10T10:51:00.002-04:00

My little one is super excited! Dollywood's Penguin Players are back, and this year they are performing the book, "Otis." When we received this in the mail a couple months ago, it was immediately one of our favorites.

Below is the schedule and description:

Otis is a fun-loving tractor who roams the fields after a hard day's work and plays in the haystacks, but what happens when the farmer decides to upgrade and brings home a brand-new, shiny yellow tractor? Find out as the Dollywood's Penguin Players present their musical interpretation of this lively Imagination Library book by Loren Long.

Monday, May 23, 11 a.m. at South Knoxville Branch** and 3 p.m. at Howard Pinkston Branch

Tuesday, May 24, 10:30 a.m. at Murphy Branch

Wednesday, May 25, 10:30 a.m. at Cedar Bluff Branch and 3:30 p.m. at North Knoxville Branch

Thursday, May 26, 3 p.m. at Norwood Branch

Friday, May 27, 10:30 a.m. at Powell Branch

Saturday, May 28, 11 a.m. at Lawson McGhee Library and 3:30 p.m. at Burlington Branch

Tuesday, May 31, 3 p.m. at Carter Branch

Wednesday, June 1, 11 a.m. at Karns Branch and 4 p.m. at Farragut Branch

Thursday, June 2, 11 a.m. at Bearden Branch and 3:30 p.m. at Halls Branch

Friday, June 3, 10:30 at Fountain City Branch

Saturday, June 4, 3 p.m. at Sequoyah Branch

**The South Knoxville branch is currently closed due to storm damage. Call or check the library web site before you head out.

Children's Festival of Reading

2011-05-10T10:51:00.000-04:00

From our library system:

Your favorite stories will pop off the page as this year's Children's Festival of Reading--May 21, 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. at downtown Knoxville's World's Fair Park--welcomes pop-up artist extraordinaire Robert Sabuda, one of today's most innovative and inventive children's book creators and many other acclaimed authors, including Imagination Library author Grace Lin! The whole region is invited to meet great authors, sit in on thrilling stories and get toes tappin' with songs from around the world. The fun continues all day long with a mad scientist, a roaming circus, arts & crafts, a bouncy house, and a wagon ride. There are even special activities just for the youngest children. It's the most exciting way to gear up for a summer of reading!

Check out a clip from last year on the library's page.

Introduction to Permaculture class offered at Ijams Nature Center

2011-05-07T08:07:00.000-04:00

The Knoxville Permaculture Guild is offering a class, Introduction to Permaculture, to help you get started living "green." The course will offer a beginning look at how since everything is connected on the earth, we can make changes to live sustainbly. You will learn strategies you can implement right way, too.

The class is free!

May 10, 5:30 p.m. at Ijams Nature Center in the Science Cafe, call Shelia at 577-4717 ext. 10 to register. Three Rivers Market is providing refreshments. Yum!

For complete details, please visit Knoxville Permaculture Guild. They offer a variety of classes, for instance, how to make strawberry jam or raise hens.

Thanks, Three River's Market--connect with them on Facebook and stay in the know.

Baby Cost Calculator

2011-05-06T14:05:00.000-04:00

I saw this recently and thought I'd share here. It's a cost calculator for the costs during year one of raising a baby. The calculator starts at $10,000! If you have child care costs, those, of course cannot be avoided, but it is amazing to see how much other changes can make!

What was my total?
Of course, you know I'm as thrifty as possible, and I loved used items. I also made the switch to cloth diapers so I factored those in my total. But what made the biggest difference for me was family and friends--I didn't have to purchase nearly anything! Thank you! Nearly everything that I needed out of the "one time cost" section of the calculator was given to me.

Granted my memory is getting hazy, but I came up with about $627. See what yours is: Baby Cost Calculator on www.BabyCenter.com.

Like any calculator, this one has some things that seem a little off, but I think you'll find it interesting.

Some notes:

I spent more on cloth diapers than their estimate. I wanted some pretty ones, but for any subsequent children, the cost is only minimal.

I never spent that much on disposable diapers, toys, clothing (what little I bought) or photo developing, etc. Their initial estimates were way off for me--because I'm a couponer/bargain hunter. For instance, $59/month for baby food? They eat very little, and mine was breastfeeding as well for all of year one (and further). I did buy some jarred baby food, and some parents make their own.

Thanks, Knoxville Doula!

Palavah Hut Restaurant Set to Re-Open Friday, May 6

2011-05-02T13:26:00.002-04:00

Last updated: July 12, 2011.

If you happened to eat here before, you know it was excellent food, so I'm very excited to announce their re-opening, this coming Friday, May 6!

Palavah Hut Restaurant specializes in authentic Liberian food, and is located at 1931 Magnolia Avenue. It's a carry-out restaurant, phone 237-0014.

Normal hours are Thursday through Saturday, 11-8:30 p.m. Keep up with them on their Facebook page.

Also check out this youtube video about Palavah Hut--thank you to kelewele who commented with a link! Also, check out their Urban Spoon rating!

To learn more about the owners, read up on them in this News Sentinel article.

Earth Fare Mother's Day Basket

2011-05-02T13:02:00.000-04:00

Enter to win a basket for your mom--from Earth Fare's email:

Make YOUR Mother's Day even sweeter this year!

Enter to win today!

To enter to win a Mother's Day basket for YOUR Mom, all you have to do is email us at contests@earthfare.com and tell us why the Mom in your life is the best ever! We'll choose a winner for each store, so be sure to tell us in your email which Earth Fare is closest to you!

Send us your answer by 11:59 EST on Wednesday, May 4. Winners will be chosen and notified on May 5 and announced on our blog.

That's it! Email us today and tell us about your Mom. It could make this Mother's Day the best one yet!

Recycle Your Old Flip Flops at Old Navy Now Through May 21

2011-05-02T07:39:00.001-04:00

My friend sent me a tip about Old Navy accepting old flip flops, so I searched and found info from Green LA Girl.

From TerraCycle

From Earth Day through May 21, Old Navy stores began accepting them in a specially marked bins inside stores. Your old flip flops will turn into material for future playgrounds thanks to a partnership between Old Navy and TerraCycle. The program is called Flip Flop Brigade, and you can learn more about it here.

Additionally, you can check out the TerraCycle site and learn how to participate in more brigades and recycle all kinds of things you didn't think possible--like yogurt containers, drink pouches and candy wrappers.

TerraCycle has already raised over $2 Million for charity.

Sunday Coupon Inserts

2011-05-01T09:39:00.003-04:00

Do you like to know what coupons are going to be in your Sunday paper ahead of time? If so, you can check or subscribe by e-mail to the site "Sunday Coupon Preview."

Check it out!

Thanks for the reminder, Sharing Savings With You.

ECO-Make & Take Jewelry/Craft Class

2011-04-30T15:54:00.003-04:00

Good news and bad news here--the good news is this looks really cool, but the bad news is that I just now found out about it. I sure hope to attend one of these in the future. Here's the details:

Fashion Alchemy Presents:

ECO-Make & Take: Recycle, Renew, Restructure

Bring your scrap fabric, old watches, shrunk sweaters, costume jewelry--or use our materials at a muli-project craft lesson and workshop! Mavericks of crafting will help you create your own piece out of recycled materials.

So, bring that one orphan earring, and old watch, etc and make it into a new piece of jewelry art!

Necklace: from their Facebook page.

This class is tomorrow, May 1, 1-7 p.m. at Pilot Light (in the Old City). Price is $10.00 per class (bring your reusable materials). I'm assuming you can drop in at some point between those times, 1-7 p.m., but I forgot to ask.

To RSVP or for more information, call Sarah Brobst at six, eight, four-7466 and check them out on Facebook: The-Fashion-Alchemy-Club-and-Pop-Up-Shop. Also, see: TWIG Original Textiles.

"We believe one you use your hands to make something, you will be hooked--even if you have never touched glue, metal, felt or a sewing machine before."

Three River's Market Coupon Match-ups

2011-04-30T08:03:00.001-04:00

Couponing in Critical Times has your match-ups ready, now through May 10, 2011.

Two Yard Sales to Raise Funds for Adoption

2011-04-29T12:12:00.000-04:00

Short notice, but I just saw today that Sharing Savings With You has the details here about two families who are raising money for adoptions via yard sales. One sale is tomorrow, and the next is May 7.

I like sales, and children in need deserve good homes, so it's a win-win.

BOGO deal at Old Navy

2011-04-29T11:44:00.000-04:00

This is a really good deal, so I wanted to pass it along. The offer is good through May 1, 2011. Enter the code ONBOGO at check out to use it online. Limit one use. The offer is not valid on Everyday Steals, Jeans and Dresses merchandise.

www.oldnavy.com

Thanks, Knoxville on a Dime!

Earth Fare match-ups through May 31, 2011

2011-04-29T11:31:00.000-04:00

Frugally Farming Family has your May coupon match-ups ready for Earth Fare! Prices are good now through the end of May.

FREE Recycling Program for City Residents

2011-04-24T20:25:00.000-04:00

By now, surely you've heard about the new City of Knoxville recycling program! If not, read all about it at this City of Knoxville link and sign up! The link to sign up is at the bottom of the page, and the program will be offered to the first 20,000 residents who make their request.

Thanks, Rachel!

Operation Vacate

2011-04-22T09:30:00.000-04:00

It's hard to believe that this week is nearly over. Yesterday, we reached a milestone in our "Operation Vacate" plans: the "for sale" sign is up!

It's been a very busy week getting all the finishing touches completed (like mopping dust!). With a stone exterior, high ceilings and arched doorways, there's a lot to miss about this house as it was truly what I pictured as ideal when we purchased. But, then there's also the little things, too:

Original built-in ironing board re-installed after moving things around in the kitchen (before its paint job). P.S. Don't get any crazy ideas, though, I don't iron!

Floor to ceiling built-in shelves in what was my office. Yes, that's pink, but you should have seen the pink we painted over--the deep pink is now gone. Husband said not to fret, he'd build even better ones for me next time.

We can't really take landscaping with us. Besides Butterfly bushes, Lilac, Rhododendron and numerous flowers, we added nearly twenty trees to our home, Red Bud, Kwaanzan Cherry, Weeping Willow, Pin Oak, Dogwood etc. One tree was planted with our daughter's placenta, another with a grandmother's ashes. These will be difficult to leave behind.

Lots of good memories!

Three River's Market Coupon Matchups

2011-04-18T15:35:00.000-04:00

Couponing in Critical Times has your match-ups ready!

Lowe's giving away one million trees for Earth Day

2011-04-18T10:34:00.000-04:00

In honor of Earth Day, Lowe's Home Improvement stores are giving away one million trees on Saturday, April 23.

Thanks Your Green Helper!

Gosh Ethiopian half off, Today's Living Social Deal

2011-04-18T08:50:00.000-04:00

Living Social is offering Gosh Ethiopian Restaurant Sutherland Ave on for half-off today: $20 of food & non-alcoholic drink for $10, expires this fall. Check out the deal for all the details! (order the vegetarian sample platter!) My husband hasn't been here yet, so I'm looking forward to a date night for half-off.

Chipotle Avocado Bean Wraps

2011-04-17T09:13:00.001-04:00

Chipotle Avocado Bean Wraps

It’s past time for another recipe! I’m particularly proud of this one since I actually made it up myself last fall. My daughter won’t go anywhere near this meal, so I spiced it up a little for a nice change.

Ingredients:

2 Avocados

2 Tomatoes

1-2 TB diced onions

Hot pepper flakes to taste

1 can chili hot beans

½ cup+ El Pinto chipotle medium salsa

Ground chipotle pepper (or jarred) to taste

Wraps

Avocado, tomato, onion & red pepper flakes

Directions:

Chop the avocados and tomatoes into large pieces, add the onions, sprinkle on some pepper flakes and cook in a large skillet on medium-high until everything is hot. Cook a few minutes more, stirring occasionally, and then add the chili hot beans (or a different bean + chili powder, cumin and garlic), salsa and a sprinkle of chipotle pepper. Once everything is thoroughly hot, it’s ready. Throw some in a wrap and enjoy.

Notes: When making this meal, the point is not to cook the avocado and tomato to death, just to sauté them. (See pics)

You could certainly use a different salsa, but I don’t recommend it. El Pinto is available at Kroger stores. If you use another salsa, add plenty of chipotle pepper (unless you don’t want it spicy, of course).

With beans, salsa & cayenne added

Vegan Coupon Site for Facebook Users

2011-04-15T09:20:00.000-04:00

"Vegan Coupons" is a Facebook page that posts about coupons available on vegan products and posts a Sunday coupon insert preview.

You can also follow them on Twitter. http://www.facebook.com/vegancoupons?ref=ts

Taxes, Ice cream and PF Changs

2011-04-14T21:43:00.001-04:00

In addition to P.F. Changs offering 15% off, Maggie Moos Ice Cream and Treatery is also having a tax day event on April 18. They are offering free miniature ice-cream sundae to each customer from 3-6 p.m.

Thanks Frugalissa Finds.

New Kid's Club at Knoxville Zoo

2011-04-12T21:20:00.000-04:00

I don't know anything about this program yet but I look forward to finding out more. We'll be renewing our membership sometime this spring, but if you're already a member and have children, be sure to sign them up for this program.

I received the following info:

Knoxville Zoo's Kids Club is off and running! Every newsletter includes: an animal spotlight of a zoo animal and one of their keepers, puzzles, games, promotions and more.

You can also take advantage of the Kids Club Card. This is a frequent visitor's card. Just pick one up at the Membership Booth on your next visit. We will stamp it for you after each visit. Once it is full, you will receive a special prize!

Reminder to attend Farmer's Market, gardening worshop

2011-04-12T21:03:00.000-04:00

I received the email today from New Harvest Park Farmer's Market and though I've already posted about their opening day, this Thursday, April 14, the email was too good not to share!

Here's what to expect:

Join us from 3 p.m. - 6 p.m. for Opening Day at New Harvest Park Farmers Market.

The weather is going to be BEAUTIFUL, and nearly 20 vendors have already signed up with more adding on every day!

Plus, we will have a GARDENING 101 WORKSHOP at 3:30 p.m. at our NEW EDUCATIONAL GARDEN! The workshop will cover site selection, soil preparation, planting, weed control, and any questions you may have about gardening.

Here's who/what we expect to have at this week's market:

Clear Springs Farm - bedding plants, raspberry canes, Tennessee Tomato topper

Cruze Dairy - fresh milk & ice cream, including buttermilk lemon custard, Jersey Cow Chocolate and more!

Gail Lowery - homemade soaps with essential oils

Grassy Creek Soaps - all natural homemade soaps - fragrance free

KB Treats - pet treats

Kim Holden - vegetable plants

Laurel Creek Meats - fresh meats and eggs

Laughing Girl - handmade jewelry, crocheted and knitted items

Melanie Wheeler - handmade jewelry and wind chimes

Mitchell Family Farm - 100% natural Grainger county beef

Mountain Meadows - spring greens, kale and herbs

Organicism Farms - arugula, green onions, herbs, live micro greens, sprouts, jellies and more

Seven Springs Farm - asparagus, rhubarb, spinach, swiss chard, onions, kale

Shelton Farms - asparagus, corn meal, corn grits

Sherie's Garden Style Salsa - all natural, no-sugar-added salsa, chow chow, beef jerky

Snow Creek Home - hand poured candles

VG's Bakery - fresh baked breads, pastries, cookies and more

Victoria Nicely - knitted and crocheted items, goats milk soap

Local Consignment Shop Going out of Business: Closeout Prices

2011-04-12T08:59:00.000-04:00

I'm always sad to hear of a local business closing its doors: Consigner's Closet is going out of business and plans to be open until at least Saturday, April 9, 11a.m.- 5 p.m. All adult clothes are $2 and children's clothes are $1! Stop in, grab some deals and help them clear out the remaining clothing.

They are located on Kingston Pike in West Knoxville in the Home Depot shopping center, phone: 865-804-8342.

Thank Andrea & Heather!

Swap 2 Save Coupon Club is off to a good start

2011-04-10T08:07:00.001-04:00

If you missed the first coupon swap at Wallace Memorial Baptist Church on Merchant's Drive, you can still enjoy future meetings--on the first Thursdays of each month, 6-8 p.m, Room S247-249. The event is called Swap 2 Save Coupon Club and now has a Facebook page where you can keep up with happenings.

The swap is organized and easy to navigate. I can sift through coupons quickly, so I was done in less than 30 minutes. Tables are set up and coupons are in containers organized by the following categories:

Baby Care
Baking
Beverages
Boxed Items
Candy/Cookies
Canned Goods
Cereals
Condiments/Sauces
Dairy
Frozen
Health/Beauty
Household
Meat/Poultry
Paper Goods
Pet Care
Pharmacy
Snacks
Attractions/Events
Restaurants
Retailers
Services

At the end of each meeting, all unclaimed coupons will be packaged and sent to various US military bases around the world, as military families can redeem coupons at US commissaries up to 6 months past their expiration date.

So, start saving your coupons for the next meeting, Thursday, May 5.

Print those e-coupons!

2011-04-07T09:11:00.000-04:00

Sometimes, it's good to have a reminder--especially when there's a Sunshine Burger involved! Sunshine burgers are organic, gluten free and soy free. You can find them at EarthFare and probably at Three River's Market (I haven't purchased them there).

Head over to all the usual places for new April coupons, and especially to www.mambosprouts.com for two coupons on Sunshine burgers. Print twice from each available computer/IP address. Also available are $1.00 off an Lightlife product and $1.00 off any Naked Juice Smoothie product.

The Great Cloth Diaper Change, Guinness World Record?

2011-04-05T08:51:00.042-04:00

Help Set A New Guinness World Record!

Are you ready to make a difference? On April 23, 2011 (the day after Earth Day) the RDA has organized a GLOBAL event, called The Great Cloth Diaper Change, to raise awareness about the benefits of using cloth diapers. This event has become an Official Guinness World Records Event and there are 275 (and counting) locations currently authorized to host this event world wide.

The Knoxville Holistic Moms Network and Cutie Tooties Cloth Diaper Store are thrilled to be official hosts for "The Great Cloth Diaper Change" - an official Guinness World Record Challenge! The challenge is for the World Record of most simultaneous cloth diaper changes. That's right, you could help set an official Guinness World Record during this global event right here in Knoxville.

If you cloth diaper, come out and join them! If you are interested in cloth diapering, come and join them and ask questions from those that do! If you don't have any in cloth, come play in the park!

They plan on meeting a little before 11am, with the diaper change at noon, a picture, then picnic, and spend the rest of the afternoon allowing the kids to play in the Ashley Nichole Dream Playground at Caswell Park, 620 Winona St, near Hall of Fame and Magnolia Ave.

There will be giveaways and prizes!

They need at least 25 diapered babies to count so please help us by pre-registering here: http://www.eventbrite.com/event/1428194769 and RSVP on Facebook here.

Some Event Rules:

There are a few rules to keep in mind:
1. Arrive on time! The actual change will be promptly at noon
2. For this record, each baby must be changed from a cloth or disposable diaper into a reusable cloth diaper that must be able to be purchased online or in a retail store. Unfortunately, homemade diapers that are not commercially available cannot be used. This is a very strict rule from Guinness World Records.
3. All babies and toddlers must be 39 inches or shorter.
4. Each baby must be paired with exactly one adult participant.

DONATION
Please bring $1 (or more) as a donation to the Real Diaper Association, the 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization dedicated to spreading the word about reusable cloth diapers