I'm going to BJ's tomorrow. I love going at the end of the month. Why? Mostly because the previous month's coupon book is still good and you also have the future month's coupon book. Right now, I also got some baby coupon book - but I honestly can't use most of the stuff in there. So what am I buying with the BJ's coupons:
BOGO Finish PowerBall Tabs (July book) - I LOVE these. I always grab two when this BOGO coupon comes. I'm actually about to run out of dishwasher detergent - so this works perfectly. I don't have any MFCs to match up with this - but still a great deal. It's a tub of 80 for $6.99 - so you get 160 for $7. That's pretty darn good in itself.
$2/1 BJ's Batteries (July Book - expires 7/17) - We just ran out of AA.
$2.50/1 Mrs. May's Freeze Dried Fruit Chips (July Book) - I believe these are $9.99. I'm back on my eating healthy frenzy and I like checking out new things.
$3/1 BJ's Vitamins - I buy Gummy Adult vitamins for the husband and I. We're almost out. I think they are $9.99.
Buy Scooby Doo Fruit Snacks, Get a GM Triple Pack of Cereal for FREE (Baby Book. Exp. 7/6) - Junk food for the kids.
$1.75/1 Crystal Light (July Book) - I'm an addict. Seriously. I drink 2 quarts a day.
$2/1 Nongshim Item (June Book - Exp. 6/30) - My husband LOVES Bowl Noodle - so I will woo him with a case of it. If you like Ramen Noodles, you will LOVE Bowl Noodle!
$3/1 Glad Odor Shield Trash Bags (July Book) - Again, I'm almost out. I got these Febreeze infused trash bags last time at BJ's and they are great. Not as many in the pack than the traditional ones (I think it's 120 vs. 130) - but they smell so fresh and so clean!
$3/1 Cutter Family Pack (July Book - Exp. 7/17)- I'm going to check the price of this. It's a 5 pack of bug repellent - which we will def. need this summer with camp and camping. I have two $1.50/1 MFCs that I'm hopefully going to couple with this $3.00 coupon. I don't think we really need 5 things of it - so if it's some crazy price like $20 - I'll probably just pick up two bottles at another store with my MFCs. But if it's $10-$15 - I'll probably go for it.
$3/1 Harvestland Frozen Item (July Book) - I like their individually wrapped frozen Chicken Breast. It's $9.99 - so $7 with coupon for 3 lbs. Not great - but I think this crap is organic or something. I might try something else in their line if I'm feeling all frisky tomorrow.
$1.75/1 Frigo Cheese Heads String Cheese (Baby Book. Exp. 7/6) - We like cheese. Especially when it's light cheese.
$2/1 Lean Cuisine 4 pack (June Book. Exp. 6/30) - Just coupling this up with a $2.25/4 coupon I scored off the Internet a few weeks ago.
So there you have some of the "good" coupons from the BJ's book. Well at least for me - your needs may be completely different than mine. It's all good. The Bounty Basics are both $3 off (toilet paper and paper towels) in the July book. There is a coupon for All Laundry Detergent that can be coupled up with a MFC from the paper as well.
Hope you have wonderful adventures when you shop at your BJ's! And remember - they take both BJ's coupons (the ones they mail to you and the ones at the door) AND MFCs. I do not work for BJ's. I just dig using coupons at wholesale clubs.
Ta-ta.
Tuesday, June 28, 2011
Boston Harbor Islands FREE Events!
Toddler Tuesdays On Grape Island - Every Tuesday at 11am in the months of July & August. Leave the Hingham Shipyard at 10:10. Arrive at Grape Island in time for the hour long program designed for toddlers. You can bring lunch and catch the 1pm ferry home. The MBTA site for the fare is a little confusing. Usually a trip from Hingham to Boston is $6.00. But they say the inner island ferry ticket is $1.70. I would think the fare to Grape Island is $1.70 - but it could be $6.00. I have zero idea. Maybe someone reading this who knows could comment. Boston Harbor Islands also has a detailed list of how to get where you need to go by clicking HERE. You can transfer to Spectacle Island from Grape Island if using the Quincy line.
Toe Jam Puppet - On Georges Island. Sunday 7/31 at 12pm & 2pm.
Toddler Tuesdays on Spectacle Island - Every Tuesday in July & August at 10:30. Ferry departs from Boston's Long Wharf.
ReadBoston Storymobile - Wednesday June 29th and Wednesday, August 17th at 12:30 on Spectacle Island. Every kid receives a free book!
Make A Mosaic - 6/22, 6/23, 6/29, 6/30 at 2pm on Spectacle Island. Join their recyclable art program, where they use materials found on the Island's beach to create pictures, portraits, mosaics, and murals. Your creation could end up on display in our Visitor Center!
Catch the Science Bug - Thursday July 14th at 11am on Spectacle Island. Catch the Science Bug Programs feature hands-on activities and/or interactive presentations that involve the audience through demonstrations, quiz games, and questions.
So those are just some of the events going on there this summer. Check out the entire schedule by clicking HERE.
Many thanks to Mass DCR and the Harbor Islands for these events!
Friday, June 24, 2011
Roche Bros. Finds - Annie's Mac & Cheese!
I hit up Rochey's today. I just needed produce and meat so it wasn't some extreme couponing frenzy. I did use a $5/$50 coupon from the Entertainment Book though.
Two great healthy finds I spotted (that are REALLY good - there were others but you can just open your circular to find those):
Goya Beans - .50 cents a can! Woohoo! (I've been trying to reduce the red meat/crap meat our family (i.e. ME) eats. So supplementing with bean dishes is working for now).
Annie's Mac & Cheese - Reg. $2.29 a box, on sale for only $1.00! I know a bunch of my readers (i.e. friends) dig this stuff. I grabbed a couple of the regular looking stuff (if Mac & Cheese isn't bright orange, my kids won't touch it). Just passing on the info because at this price, it's a great deal to stock up on. I usually keep it real with Kraft, but I'm looking out for you "healthy" people! :)
I personally think Rochey's is the best store around - especially if you aren't one for coupons. Their prices aren't bad, you don't need a rewards card, the stores are clean, the people are overly nice, etc. etc. It's not really an "extreme couponing" stop - since they aren't big into catalinas or other crazy stuff - but if you are just looking for an every day bargain and overall great shopping experience, I'd hit up Rochey's. Just my 2 cents that nobody asked for.
Two great healthy finds I spotted (that are REALLY good - there were others but you can just open your circular to find those):
Goya Beans - .50 cents a can! Woohoo! (I've been trying to reduce the red meat/crap meat our family (i.e. ME) eats. So supplementing with bean dishes is working for now).
Annie's Mac & Cheese - Reg. $2.29 a box, on sale for only $1.00! I know a bunch of my readers (i.e. friends) dig this stuff. I grabbed a couple of the regular looking stuff (if Mac & Cheese isn't bright orange, my kids won't touch it). Just passing on the info because at this price, it's a great deal to stock up on. I usually keep it real with Kraft, but I'm looking out for you "healthy" people! :)
I personally think Rochey's is the best store around - especially if you aren't one for coupons. Their prices aren't bad, you don't need a rewards card, the stores are clean, the people are overly nice, etc. etc. It's not really an "extreme couponing" stop - since they aren't big into catalinas or other crazy stuff - but if you are just looking for an every day bargain and overall great shopping experience, I'd hit up Rochey's. Just my 2 cents that nobody asked for.
Massachusetts Farmers Markets are Opening!
The quality of produce at stores kind of sucks. Well it can. This year I have noticed it. Prices at Farmers Markets aren't that bad. I'm not one of these crazy vegetable ladies who whips up oddities with ingredients the typical Peg Bundy doesn't understand - I usually stick to things like tomatoes, peppers, corn, cucumbers and watermelon. Apples are also great (and not that pricey) at Farmers Markets. You can also score great deals on seafood and baked goods at most of them.
So if you haven't check any out - you should. Makes for a fun time for the kids. Also - many of the Mass Farmers Markets take WIC and other food stamp type programs. In addition, I know Quincy is starting a program this year that will accept credit cards through some of the vendors.
So go. Farmer Market. Be trendy - you know, like me.
Thursday, June 23, 2011
Red Mango Coupons! - Check your Grocery Circular Mailing!
Hey South Shore (and possibly Natick area) Peeps!
Did you get that pack of grocery circulars in your mailbox yesterday? Well don't just toss it - inside mine was a flyer for Red Mango - with some REALLY valuable coupons including a FREE Smoothie, FREE Yogurt (up to $5) & FREE Lemonade or Iced Tea. There are also a bunch of BOGO Coupons and coupons for $2 off your order of $5 or more.
Red Mango is located at the Hingham Shipyard on 3A. There is also one at the Natick Collection as well as in Boston at Symphony Plaza.
Time to go get my frozen yogurt on!
Wednesday, June 22, 2011
Entertainment Book - Gennaro's Pizza, Quincy MA
Holy Bargain! So Tuesday night, we decided to make it pizza night. Where did I turn? My trusty Entertainment Book of course! Gennaro's Eatery in Quincy has a BOGO Free coupon for take out pizza. So we pounced on that.
I called in my order and it took about 20 minutes. So I walk in to pick it up - and the girl hands me 2 larges and a small box. So I was like "Ahh, I only had 2 large pizzas" - so she informed me that on TUESDAYS, all customers get a FREE small cheese pizza with the purchase of any large pizza. They didn't mention this to me on the phone.
So I had ordered 2 large cheese pizzas, got a free small cheese - and the total with tax came to $10.50.
So how was it? Money worth saving? Of course! I walked in and was pleasantly surprised by the atmosphere. Looked like your typical mom & pop Italian restaurant. I immediately thought that I will have to take the husband here for a sit down dinner some day. We got home and the pizza was fabulous. More traditional tasting and reminded me of pizza I ate at local shops growing up in CT (because obviously Connecticut is known for it's pizza...that's a joke. But some places in CT are really good). The only issue was that the large really wasn't that "large" - but heck! We had three pizzas - that's not an issue. But if you are ordering there - keep in mind the large is more "normal" size and not as big as the commercial larges.
So if you are in or around Quincy and need a great pizza - think Gennaro's! And remember your Entertainment Book Coupon!
I called in my order and it took about 20 minutes. So I walk in to pick it up - and the girl hands me 2 larges and a small box. So I was like "Ahh, I only had 2 large pizzas" - so she informed me that on TUESDAYS, all customers get a FREE small cheese pizza with the purchase of any large pizza. They didn't mention this to me on the phone.
So I had ordered 2 large cheese pizzas, got a free small cheese - and the total with tax came to $10.50.
So how was it? Money worth saving? Of course! I walked in and was pleasantly surprised by the atmosphere. Looked like your typical mom & pop Italian restaurant. I immediately thought that I will have to take the husband here for a sit down dinner some day. We got home and the pizza was fabulous. More traditional tasting and reminded me of pizza I ate at local shops growing up in CT (because obviously Connecticut is known for it's pizza...that's a joke. But some places in CT are really good). The only issue was that the large really wasn't that "large" - but heck! We had three pizzas - that's not an issue. But if you are ordering there - keep in mind the large is more "normal" size and not as big as the commercial larges.
So if you are in or around Quincy and need a great pizza - think Gennaro's! And remember your Entertainment Book Coupon!
Tuesday, June 21, 2011
Facebook Giveaway: 3 Free Rentals at Blockbuster Express!
I'm trying something new - giving away 3 free rentals at Blockbuster Express through my Facebook page.
It's easy. Go to my Facebook page. See my recent post. Comment on it. I don't care what you write. "Likes" don't count and comments on this blog post don't count either. Tomorrow I'll pick a winner.
What? You don't "like" my Facebook Page? It's okay. I don't mind. Here's the link: Bargain Becky
Why the giveaway you ask? I bought that Groupon a few weeks ago. It was 5 rentals for $2. I thought "Great! There is a Blockbuster kiosk about 2 blocks away." Well we walked up to get our movies - and it was gone! Then I went to the other store that had one about 1/4 mile away. It was gone. Long story short - the closest Blockbuster Express to me is now 6 miles away. I'm not driving that far to get a free movie. Why Blockbuster took kiosks out of my town is beyond me.
It's easy. Go to my Facebook page. See my recent post. Comment on it. I don't care what you write. "Likes" don't count and comments on this blog post don't count either. Tomorrow I'll pick a winner.
What? You don't "like" my Facebook Page? It's okay. I don't mind. Here's the link: Bargain Becky
Why the giveaway you ask? I bought that Groupon a few weeks ago. It was 5 rentals for $2. I thought "Great! There is a Blockbuster kiosk about 2 blocks away." Well we walked up to get our movies - and it was gone! Then I went to the other store that had one about 1/4 mile away. It was gone. Long story short - the closest Blockbuster Express to me is now 6 miles away. I'm not driving that far to get a free movie. Why Blockbuster took kiosks out of my town is beyond me.
Saturday, June 18, 2011
Summer Sensation at Patriot Place - FREE Events all Summer Long!
Check out the entire schedule HERE.
I have added this to my Free Summer Fun post as well - so if you are looking for free summer fun in the Northern South Shore area - check THIS POST out!
Thursday, June 16, 2011
Entertainment Book - Wonder Bakery Outlet!
So I recently got my Boston area Entertainment Book. I vow to actually use more than 2 coupons in it this year! I figured - what better way to use them than blogging about how the places are? Boring? Oh well.
Last week, my Entertainment Book took me to the Wonder Bakery Outlet on Pond St. in Braintree. Holy bargains! If you haven't been - you should check this store out. Bread is like .89 & .99 cents - with expiration dates a week from purchase. They have english muffins 3 packs for $3.00. They have all the deliciously bad treats - wicked cheap (my husband eats all this crap in his lunch everyday).
I actually printed my coupon from Entertainment.com to score a free box of treats with the purchase of any bread. So I got my .89 cent loaf of Wonder Bread and grabbed a box of Devil Dogs ($2.50) which was free. That's a pretty good bargain. I also grabbed some English Muffins. They were really tasty - in fact, I like them better than Thomas'. They aren't all nook and cranny like - more like diner style.
So if you like cheap Wonder products - check out the Wonder Outlet at 601 Pond St. in Braintree! And if you are an Entertainment Book holder - don't forget your coupons! They have a bunch of coupons to choose from but you can only use 1 per visit.
I actually printed my coupon from Entertainment.com to score a free box of treats with the purchase of any bread. So I got my .89 cent loaf of Wonder Bread and grabbed a box of Devil Dogs ($2.50) which was free. That's a pretty good bargain. I also grabbed some English Muffins. They were really tasty - in fact, I like them better than Thomas'. They aren't all nook and cranny like - more like diner style.
So if you like cheap Wonder products - check out the Wonder Outlet at 601 Pond St. in Braintree! And if you are an Entertainment Book holder - don't forget your coupons! They have a bunch of coupons to choose from but you can only use 1 per visit.
Wednesday, June 15, 2011
Shaw's Summertime Destination Promo - UPDATE - Got My Tickets!
So on June something (some Friday) - Shaw's started a promo where if you buy 8 things, you can mail in your reciept to get 2 tickets to some featured destination. There were 9 destinations in total and you had to number them 1-9 in order. I ran out to Shaw's and bought my 8 things and my 8 things only that Friday.
Unfortunately, I slacked and didn't mail the rebate until Monday - wanted to do it Saturday. Story Land was my number 1 choice. York's Wild Kingdom was #2. Today, I got 2 tickets to York's Wild Kingdom! Watch out kids - looks like we're going to be hitting up Maine sometime this summer! The tickets are normally $21.75 - so a great savings and it looks like a great place based on their website. Apparently it's less than 80 miles from where I live - huh! Who knew Maine was so close?
We're going to Story Land this August so it would have been nice to have those tickets - but oh well! You win some, you lose some. And now I'm kind of excited to plan a day trip! Many thanks to Shaw's for this promo!
How did everyone else make out on this promo? I'm surprised I got the tickets so soon.
Unfortunately, I slacked and didn't mail the rebate until Monday - wanted to do it Saturday. Story Land was my number 1 choice. York's Wild Kingdom was #2. Today, I got 2 tickets to York's Wild Kingdom! Watch out kids - looks like we're going to be hitting up Maine sometime this summer! The tickets are normally $21.75 - so a great savings and it looks like a great place based on their website. Apparently it's less than 80 miles from where I live - huh! Who knew Maine was so close?
We're going to Story Land this August so it would have been nice to have those tickets - but oh well! You win some, you lose some. And now I'm kind of excited to plan a day trip! Many thanks to Shaw's for this promo!
How did everyone else make out on this promo? I'm surprised I got the tickets so soon.
Deno's (West Roxbury/Brookline) - Free Slice of Cheese Pizza Today!
Do I have any West Roxbury/Brookline area readers? Probably not - but if you are in the area today and happen to have Bruins garb on - go into Deno's Pizza and get a Free Slice of Cheese Pizza! Offer good until 3pm today. This pizza is AMAZING. For real.
Like them on Facebook for random offers. Or you can check them out the old school way and just go to their website HERE.
Like them on Facebook for random offers. Or you can check them out the old school way and just go to their website HERE.
Earn a Free Whopper - Watch "Whopper Lust" on DirecTV!
My family of 4 seriously did just sit there for 5 minutes. We discussed all sorts of things - like why BK puts onions on their burgers, if hamburgers are healthy, why BK doesn't have a playspace and MickeyD's does.
I have no idea when this deal expires. I just found it scrolling through the channels and didn't read all the fine print.
Tuesday, June 14, 2011
Shaw's - $199 becomes $79
Total Before Savings: $199.05
Total Preferred Savings: $61.84
Total Coupons: $57.45
Cash OOP: $79.76
Earned: 25 Box Tops for Education ($2.50 for a school!)
- First & foremost, I was intrigued by the Gift Card deal going on now. It's buy $100 in gift cards, get a coupon for $20 off your next purchase. There are two places where we always drop money: Gas stations & Lowe's. Shaw's gift cards are excluded from this promo. I ended up just getting a $100 to Lowe's. I bought this right when I walked in and then had a $20 coupon in my pocket.
- I also signed up at Shaws.com for email alerts. This gave me a $5/$25 purchase coupon automatically to my email.
Here are some great deals I scored with coupons:
***FREEBIE ALERT*** - My Shaw's has a Skinny Cow candy display in the front near the condiment isle. These are normally .99 cents each but they are on sale for .69 cents. There are coupons on the display for .75/2. MFCs under $1 double - so essentially, they are giving you .06 cents for each one you buy. I only took one coupon and two candies. You could do more - but you know, clearing the shelf/display is pretty tacky.
BTFE Catalina
2 GoGurts - Reg. $2.99, Sale $2.50, $2.00 after instant savings (.75/2 MFC from Coupons.com DOUBLED) $1.25 each
2 Splits Yogurt - Reg. $2.79, Sale $2.00, $1.50 after instant savings (.75/2 MFC from Coupons.com DOUBLED) .75 each
2 Old El Paso Burrito Stuffers - Reg. $3.49, Sale $2.50, $2.00 after instant savings (2 $1.10/1 MFCs from CouponNetwork.com) .90 cents each
2 Fruit Roll Ups - Reg. $2.99, Sale $2.00, $1.50 after instant savings ($1/2 from Coupons.com) $1.00 each
1 BC Cake Mix - Reg. $2.29, Sale $1.50, $1.00 after instant savings - .50 cents after coupon with frosting
1 BC Frosting - Reg. $2.59, Sale $2.00, $1.50 after instant savings - $1.00 after coupon with cake mix
Pierogies Deal
3 Mrs. T Pierogies - Reg. $2.99, Sale $2.00 ($1/1 MFC from All You) $5 for 3 boxes
2 Stone Rindge Ice Creams - Reg. $3.49, Sale $2.50 - BOTH FREE WYB 3 Boxes of Pierogies
Other Deals
1/2 gallon Swiss Iced Tea - Reg. $1.79, Sale $1.67 (.75/1 MFC from paper) .17 cents for this!
4C Drink Mix - Reg. $5.49, Sale $3.99 ($2/1 MFC from paper) $1.99
3 Milky Way Bars - Reg. .99 each, B2G1 Free (.50/2 MFC from Coupons.com DOUBLED) .33 cents each
1 Viva Paper Towels - Reg. $1.99, Sale $1.79 ($1/1 MFC from paper or All You) .79 (and it did say single roll or multi-pack)
Bounty Basic 8 pack - Reg. $7.99, Sale $4.99 ($1/1 MFC from paper) $3.99
Villiage Candles - Some assorted ones were 75% off. I scored a jar that was regularly $14.29 for $3.57. This is good to throw in my random gift bin. Sometimes you just need little gifts every now and then.
Rhodes Frozen Rolls - $2.99 (.75/1 MFC DOUBLED) $1.49. Not a great deal - but I've wanted to try these out and we needed rolls for dinner tonight.
2 Bush's Baked Beans - Reg. $2.13. Sale $1.39 ($1/2 MFC from paper) .89 cents each
1 Ken's Marinade - Reg. $3.43, Sale $1.99 ($1/1 MFC from paper) .99 cents. The Buffalo Wing sauce is Wonderful!
1 Crystal Light Lemonade - Reg. $2.99, Sale $1.99 ($1/1 MFC from paper) .99 cents
2 V8 Juices - Reg. $2.99, Sale $2.50 ($2/2 MFC from paper) $1.50 each. I use V8 in cooking a lot lately. It brings out more flavor. Call me Julia Child.
1 Dole Crisp - Reg. $2.35, Sale $2.00 ($1/1 MFC from paper) $1.00. I make my kids eat canned/packaged fruit all the time. This doesn't bother me.
3 Dole Fruit Cups - Reg. $3.29 each, Sale $2.50 ($1/3 MFC from paper) $2.17 each. My husband is addicted to the pineapples. They don't sell them in bulk at BJ's.
Dietz & Watson Deal (Coupon in Flyer - Buy one pound of meat, get 1/2 pound of cheese for free)
1.04 lbs Classic Turkey - $8.31
.50 lbs American Cheese - $3.75 (with coupon, this was FREE!)
I also bought a bunch of produce and meat - but hearing about that is boring.
Quick Tip:
I did notice that Crystal Light now has "alcoholic" flavors - like Mojito and Margarita. A great way to reduce the calorie intake if you like to make your own mixed drinks. It's not marketed to be a drink mix - but I don't see why not. These flavors are on sale for $2.99 this week.
Monday, June 13, 2011
Free Stuff To Do This Summer With Kids - Northern South Shore!
Nothing says "bargain" quite like free! Having two little buggers - well, they can get expensive if I start carting them around every which way. 2 summer agos, I tried that "Free Fun Friday" thing thanks to the Highland Street Foundation. I completely appreciate their generosity and support of the community - but at the same time - every event was so insanely crowded that I honestly would have rather just paid the money on a non-busy day.
Last year I took advantage of some local free stuff and plan to do the same this year. So if you live in or around Quincy, Weymouth or Braintree, there's a bunch of great free events - virtually almost one every day if you actually threw everything I listed on a calendar. Just a note - most of these events are for the under 10 crowd.
If I come across other stuff throughout the summer, I'll post it here and keep this post on my homepage as a tab. This is just kind of a start. If you have anything to share in the QWB area - give me a shout!
Free Programs
Weymouth
Weymouth Libraries - The Tufts Library has a large line up of free kid performers all summer long. Registration is required. They also have Family Story Time on Mondays 10am from 7/11 - 8/15. They have book flix on Fridays at 2pm from 7/8-8/19. No registration is required for the Story Time or Book Flix. Details at link.
The North Branch is holding storytimes on Wednesdays from 10am-11am during the month of July.
Weymouth Recreation - Weymouth Recreation has a lot of great programs for children of all ages. The cost of these programs are pretty reasonable, but they also provide some free programs throughout the summer. The Summer Sizzle is Sunday, June 19th from 1pm-4pm at Wessagusset School. There are kid concerts at Town Hall every Thursday night at 6:30 in the month of July. There are movies at 8pm on Thursdays in August - first two are at Town Hall, the last is at George Lane Beach. Schedule at link. There is also Free Canoeing & Kayaking on June 24th and July 16th. Registration is required for these, but it's free.
Weymouth Child Family Community Center - The WCFCC (or as I like to call it, the Weymouth Family Network) has sporadic events during the month of July and beginning of August. These programs are for those kids 5 and under. Usually there is a $25 fee to join the WCFCC at the beginning of the school year - but this is a great opportunity to meet the teachers there and find out more about the WCFCC (it's a great resource for Weymouth families with kids 0-5 - providing activities everyday during the school year). I'm pretty sure they won't tell you to leave if you aren't a member. I'm not sure about the exact rules - but I think you have to be a Weymouth resident, unless your town doesn't have their own CFCC. I know Quincy has one - so techincally, Quincy residents can't go - but since Braintree & Hingham doesn't have a CFCC, I think they can. Make sense? Probably not. Anyways - check out the awesome people at the WCFCC! If you click on this link - click on the link "Summer 11 Programs" for the full schedule.
Weymouth Farmers Market - Saturdays from 9am - 1pm. Opening day is Saturday, June 25th. The Summer Sampler will be running at the Town Hall amphitheater inconjunction with this opening day. There will be plenty of things for the kids to do here. Check out Weymouth's Farmers Market link for other events taking place at the Farmers Market throughout the summer - to include their Village Days and the Great Pumpkin Give-A-Wey the first Saturday in October.
Lowe's Build & Grow Clinics - The next Build & Grow clinics are June 25th & July 9th. They typically happen every other Saturday at 10am at Lowe's. It's much easier to register online before the event and to ensure you get that week's project. If you don't pre-register, they might give you a leftover kit from another week.
Quincy
Quincy Public Libraries - Quincy Public Libraries put on an awesome summer program for youth. PJ storytimes, Art programs, storytimes. They pretty much have at least one activity every day of the summer - although that is spread out between all the branches. The link is for the library calendar - all of the children events are in blue. Most programs are open - but a few select ones do require registration and/or Quincy residency.
Friends of Wollaston Beach - The FWB put on a lot of great and free events for the kids all summer long. They have Tot Lot Tuesdays most every Tuesday night from 6-8pm at the Playground on Quincy Shore Drive. There is a KidFest on Sat. June 25th. Annual membership is just $10 per family. You don't have to be a member of the FWB to attend the events. The link takes you to their active Facebook page where they promote their events.
Quincy Center Farmers Market - Fridays from 11:30am - 5pm. Opening Day is Friday, June 24th and features a lot of events for the kids. Throughout the summer, there will be events for kids and adults alike. Check their link for more details and schedules.
Lowe's Build & Grow Clinics - The next Build & Grow clinics are June 25th & July 9th. They typically happen every other Saturday at 10am at Lowe's. It's much easier to register online before the event and to ensure you get that week's project. If you don't pre-register, they might give you a leftover kit from another week.
Home Depot - On the first Saturday of every month, Home Depot has a free Kids Workshop. It's held 9am -noon. They are having a special Father's Day one this Saturday, the 18th. Then the next one will be the first Saturday in July. Then August. Then September. Then it's school time again!
Braintree
Summer Concert Series - The Town of Braintree puts on a Summer Concert series on Tuesday nights from 6pm-8pm from June 21-August 9th. These are held at the Sunset Lake's gazebo. These bands aren't exactly "kid" bands - but kids of all ages would enjoy the live entertainment. Schedule at attached link.
Braintree Farmers Market - Braintree's Farmers Market is held from 9am - 1pm on Saturdays until October 29th. Check out the link for more information and events that may be taking place during the summer.
Michaels - Michaels offers a lot of "Make & Take" events. Most of them, you have to buy whatever they are "making". Some though, are free. The next free one is Saturday, June 21st from 11am-2pm. Click on the link to find the schedule and to see if your local store is participating.
Barnes & Noble - The Braintree B&N offers a recurring StoryTime on both Tuesdays & Fridays at 10:30 am.
Other Areas
Hingham
Hingham Shipyard - Free movies Thursdays at Dusk from July 7 - August 25th. Free Concerts Fridays at 7pm from July 8 - August 26th. Schedule at link.
Barnes & Noble - The Hingham B&N offers sporadic Story Times. You can check the schedule online or pick up a schedule there.
Hidden Pond - Hidden Pond is located behind Whole Foods at the Derby Street Shoppes. There is a little hiking trail and walking around the pond is only 1/4 mile - so if you just need to get out for a little bit with the kids but are sick of the playground scene, pack a picnic and check this place out! If it gets to be too outdoorsy for you - well then you can just do some shopping!
Hull
Town of Hull - Monday, June 20th 6:30pm, Toe Jam Puppet Band at Jacobs School Playground. Maybe more events will pop up on their Community Calendar throughout the summer.
Boston Harbor Islands
Boston Harbor Islands - Leaving from either the Quincy or Hingham Shipyard! Free events all summer long on Grape & Spectacle Islands! Click THIS link for my write up about these events.
Hanover
A.C. Moore - Every Wednesday from 3pm-5pm, A.C. Moore is holding a free make and take. See the schedule at the link.
Hanover Mall Walking Program - Monday - Saturday from 8am - 10am and Sundays from 10am-12pm, the Hanover Mall has partnered up with the YMCA to provide you with Healthy Steps. This is perfect for a new mom who might not want to join a gym but wants to get some exercise. You do have to sign a waiver at your first visit, but that's just so you don't sue anyone if you trip or fall. This program is free an runs all the time!
Foxboro
Patriot Place - Summer Sensation at Patriot Place starts June 27th! Join Patriot Place this summer for Free family activities each day!
National Amusements - Bookworm Wednesdays. Free movies every Wednesday at 10am from July 6-August 10th with written book report. For more details, click link for my blog post.
Playgrounds - Weymouth, Quincy, Braintree
(This list was compiled with help from 365 Things To Do on the South Shore - view their complete list HERE)
Weymouth
- Kid's Landing. Behind the Tufts Library on Broad St. This is a great playground, but it is not fenced in. The ice cream truck frequents this place - so you might want to carry some cash or just tell your kids "tough luck Buddy - you aren't getting any!"
- Beals Park. Bridge & Athens Streets. Can be considered a little "rugged" - but the play structures are in great condition. Just watch out for the basketball court area.
- Pingree School. Off Commercial St. Nothing spectacular, but if you are looking for a secluded, new place - here's one for you. There's tables you can sit at.
- Johnson School Playground. Pearl St. They do use this playground during school hours and during summer camp hours - so this is a good place to hit up late afternoon/early evening and on the weekends. It's sandwiched between the buildings at the entrance.
- Hamilton School. Union St. Playground at school.
- Murphy School. Front St. Playground at school.
- Great Esker Park Playground. Kind of small, but shaded. Park at the Great Esker lot at the end of Elva Road. Basketball courts, picnic tables, baseball fields, walking trail along the esker. This is a great park to bring the bikes.
Get a list of all Weymouth Parks & Recreation spots by clicking HERE.
Quincy
- Allerton Street Playground. Allerton Street in Houghs Neck.
- Arthur Boysons Park. Heron Road in Adams Shore. It has children’s playground equipment as well as a basketball court.
- McKinnon’s Playground. Chapel Street on Houghs Neck.
- Grenham Street Playground. Macy Street in Houghs Neck.
- Forbes Hill Playground. Forbes Hill Road in Wollaston.
- Flaherty Park. Quarry Street in West Quincy. It has a playground, basketball court and street hockey court.
- Grasso Playground. Columbia Street in South Quincy. It has a basketball court and a kids playground.
- Kincaide Park. Water Street in South Quincy. It has a softball field and baseball field with lights, tennis court, street hockey court and a children’s playground.
- Beechwood Knoll Playground. Fenno Street in Wollaston. It has basketball court and a playground.
- Quincy Shore Drive Playground. Quincy Shore Drive across from Wollaston Beach next to the Clam Box. There are bathrooms right across the street at the DCR shack.
- Hidden Playground on Quincy Shore Drive. Park at the last parking lot on the right if coming from Boston. Walk up the path to a great playground that is almost all completely shaded.
- Rest-A-While Playground. Southern Artery near Hancock Street.
Get a list of All Quincy Playgrounds HERE (from their City Website).
Braintree
- Erwin Davis Memorial Park. Faxon Street. Basketball court, a playground and a large open field. Located off Commerical Street.
- Robert S. Mattulina Playground. Kendall Ave. Baseball field, jungle gyms, swings, a slide and picnic table for parents.
- French’s Common Park. Across the street from Thayer Public Library. Tennis and basketballs courts and a baseball field. They have swings and a jungle gym.
- Hollis Playground. Hollis School on Washington Street. Large playground that is completely fenced in.
- Winfield Adams Playground. Corner of Commerical St. and Adams St.
Last year I took advantage of some local free stuff and plan to do the same this year. So if you live in or around Quincy, Weymouth or Braintree, there's a bunch of great free events - virtually almost one every day if you actually threw everything I listed on a calendar. Just a note - most of these events are for the under 10 crowd.
If I come across other stuff throughout the summer, I'll post it here and keep this post on my homepage as a tab. This is just kind of a start. If you have anything to share in the QWB area - give me a shout!
Free Programs
Weymouth
Weymouth Libraries - The Tufts Library has a large line up of free kid performers all summer long. Registration is required. They also have Family Story Time on Mondays 10am from 7/11 - 8/15. They have book flix on Fridays at 2pm from 7/8-8/19. No registration is required for the Story Time or Book Flix. Details at link.
The North Branch is holding storytimes on Wednesdays from 10am-11am during the month of July.
Weymouth Recreation - Weymouth Recreation has a lot of great programs for children of all ages. The cost of these programs are pretty reasonable, but they also provide some free programs throughout the summer. The Summer Sizzle is Sunday, June 19th from 1pm-4pm at Wessagusset School. There are kid concerts at Town Hall every Thursday night at 6:30 in the month of July. There are movies at 8pm on Thursdays in August - first two are at Town Hall, the last is at George Lane Beach. Schedule at link. There is also Free Canoeing & Kayaking on June 24th and July 16th. Registration is required for these, but it's free.
Weymouth Child Family Community Center - The WCFCC (or as I like to call it, the Weymouth Family Network) has sporadic events during the month of July and beginning of August. These programs are for those kids 5 and under. Usually there is a $25 fee to join the WCFCC at the beginning of the school year - but this is a great opportunity to meet the teachers there and find out more about the WCFCC (it's a great resource for Weymouth families with kids 0-5 - providing activities everyday during the school year). I'm pretty sure they won't tell you to leave if you aren't a member. I'm not sure about the exact rules - but I think you have to be a Weymouth resident, unless your town doesn't have their own CFCC. I know Quincy has one - so techincally, Quincy residents can't go - but since Braintree & Hingham doesn't have a CFCC, I think they can. Make sense? Probably not. Anyways - check out the awesome people at the WCFCC! If you click on this link - click on the link "Summer 11 Programs" for the full schedule.
Weymouth Farmers Market - Saturdays from 9am - 1pm. Opening day is Saturday, June 25th. The Summer Sampler will be running at the Town Hall amphitheater inconjunction with this opening day. There will be plenty of things for the kids to do here. Check out Weymouth's Farmers Market link for other events taking place at the Farmers Market throughout the summer - to include their Village Days and the Great Pumpkin Give-A-Wey the first Saturday in October.
Lowe's Build & Grow Clinics - The next Build & Grow clinics are June 25th & July 9th. They typically happen every other Saturday at 10am at Lowe's. It's much easier to register online before the event and to ensure you get that week's project. If you don't pre-register, they might give you a leftover kit from another week.
Quincy
Quincy Public Libraries - Quincy Public Libraries put on an awesome summer program for youth. PJ storytimes, Art programs, storytimes. They pretty much have at least one activity every day of the summer - although that is spread out between all the branches. The link is for the library calendar - all of the children events are in blue. Most programs are open - but a few select ones do require registration and/or Quincy residency.
Friends of Wollaston Beach - The FWB put on a lot of great and free events for the kids all summer long. They have Tot Lot Tuesdays most every Tuesday night from 6-8pm at the Playground on Quincy Shore Drive. There is a KidFest on Sat. June 25th. Annual membership is just $10 per family. You don't have to be a member of the FWB to attend the events. The link takes you to their active Facebook page where they promote their events.
Quincy Center Farmers Market - Fridays from 11:30am - 5pm. Opening Day is Friday, June 24th and features a lot of events for the kids. Throughout the summer, there will be events for kids and adults alike. Check their link for more details and schedules.
Lowe's Build & Grow Clinics - The next Build & Grow clinics are June 25th & July 9th. They typically happen every other Saturday at 10am at Lowe's. It's much easier to register online before the event and to ensure you get that week's project. If you don't pre-register, they might give you a leftover kit from another week.
Home Depot - On the first Saturday of every month, Home Depot has a free Kids Workshop. It's held 9am -noon. They are having a special Father's Day one this Saturday, the 18th. Then the next one will be the first Saturday in July. Then August. Then September. Then it's school time again!
Braintree
Summer Concert Series - The Town of Braintree puts on a Summer Concert series on Tuesday nights from 6pm-8pm from June 21-August 9th. These are held at the Sunset Lake's gazebo. These bands aren't exactly "kid" bands - but kids of all ages would enjoy the live entertainment. Schedule at attached link.
Braintree Farmers Market - Braintree's Farmers Market is held from 9am - 1pm on Saturdays until October 29th. Check out the link for more information and events that may be taking place during the summer.
Michaels - Michaels offers a lot of "Make & Take" events. Most of them, you have to buy whatever they are "making". Some though, are free. The next free one is Saturday, June 21st from 11am-2pm. Click on the link to find the schedule and to see if your local store is participating.
Barnes & Noble - The Braintree B&N offers a recurring StoryTime on both Tuesdays & Fridays at 10:30 am.
Other Areas
Hingham
Hingham Shipyard - Free movies Thursdays at Dusk from July 7 - August 25th. Free Concerts Fridays at 7pm from July 8 - August 26th. Schedule at link.
Barnes & Noble - The Hingham B&N offers sporadic Story Times. You can check the schedule online or pick up a schedule there.
Hidden Pond - Hidden Pond is located behind Whole Foods at the Derby Street Shoppes. There is a little hiking trail and walking around the pond is only 1/4 mile - so if you just need to get out for a little bit with the kids but are sick of the playground scene, pack a picnic and check this place out! If it gets to be too outdoorsy for you - well then you can just do some shopping!
Hull
Town of Hull - Monday, June 20th 6:30pm, Toe Jam Puppet Band at Jacobs School Playground. Maybe more events will pop up on their Community Calendar throughout the summer.
Boston Harbor Islands
Boston Harbor Islands - Leaving from either the Quincy or Hingham Shipyard! Free events all summer long on Grape & Spectacle Islands! Click THIS link for my write up about these events.
Hanover
A.C. Moore - Every Wednesday from 3pm-5pm, A.C. Moore is holding a free make and take. See the schedule at the link.
Hanover Mall Walking Program - Monday - Saturday from 8am - 10am and Sundays from 10am-12pm, the Hanover Mall has partnered up with the YMCA to provide you with Healthy Steps. This is perfect for a new mom who might not want to join a gym but wants to get some exercise. You do have to sign a waiver at your first visit, but that's just so you don't sue anyone if you trip or fall. This program is free an runs all the time!
Foxboro
Patriot Place - Summer Sensation at Patriot Place starts June 27th! Join Patriot Place this summer for Free family activities each day!
National Amusements - Bookworm Wednesdays. Free movies every Wednesday at 10am from July 6-August 10th with written book report. For more details, click link for my blog post.
Playgrounds - Weymouth, Quincy, Braintree
(This list was compiled with help from 365 Things To Do on the South Shore - view their complete list HERE)
Weymouth
- Kid's Landing. Behind the Tufts Library on Broad St. This is a great playground, but it is not fenced in. The ice cream truck frequents this place - so you might want to carry some cash or just tell your kids "tough luck Buddy - you aren't getting any!"
- Beals Park. Bridge & Athens Streets. Can be considered a little "rugged" - but the play structures are in great condition. Just watch out for the basketball court area.
- Pingree School. Off Commercial St. Nothing spectacular, but if you are looking for a secluded, new place - here's one for you. There's tables you can sit at.
- Johnson School Playground. Pearl St. They do use this playground during school hours and during summer camp hours - so this is a good place to hit up late afternoon/early evening and on the weekends. It's sandwiched between the buildings at the entrance.
- Hamilton School. Union St. Playground at school.
- Murphy School. Front St. Playground at school.
- Great Esker Park Playground. Kind of small, but shaded. Park at the Great Esker lot at the end of Elva Road. Basketball courts, picnic tables, baseball fields, walking trail along the esker. This is a great park to bring the bikes.
Get a list of all Weymouth Parks & Recreation spots by clicking HERE.
Quincy
- Allerton Street Playground. Allerton Street in Houghs Neck.
- Arthur Boysons Park. Heron Road in Adams Shore. It has children’s playground equipment as well as a basketball court.
- McKinnon’s Playground. Chapel Street on Houghs Neck.
- Grenham Street Playground. Macy Street in Houghs Neck.
- Forbes Hill Playground. Forbes Hill Road in Wollaston.
- Flaherty Park. Quarry Street in West Quincy. It has a playground, basketball court and street hockey court.
- Grasso Playground. Columbia Street in South Quincy. It has a basketball court and a kids playground.
- Kincaide Park. Water Street in South Quincy. It has a softball field and baseball field with lights, tennis court, street hockey court and a children’s playground.
- Beechwood Knoll Playground. Fenno Street in Wollaston. It has basketball court and a playground.
- Quincy Shore Drive Playground. Quincy Shore Drive across from Wollaston Beach next to the Clam Box. There are bathrooms right across the street at the DCR shack.
- Hidden Playground on Quincy Shore Drive. Park at the last parking lot on the right if coming from Boston. Walk up the path to a great playground that is almost all completely shaded.
- Rest-A-While Playground. Southern Artery near Hancock Street.
Get a list of All Quincy Playgrounds HERE (from their City Website).
Braintree
- Erwin Davis Memorial Park. Faxon Street. Basketball court, a playground and a large open field. Located off Commerical Street.
- Robert S. Mattulina Playground. Kendall Ave. Baseball field, jungle gyms, swings, a slide and picnic table for parents.
- French’s Common Park. Across the street from Thayer Public Library. Tennis and basketballs courts and a baseball field. They have swings and a jungle gym.
- Hollis Playground. Hollis School on Washington Street. Large playground that is completely fenced in.
- Winfield Adams Playground. Corner of Commerical St. and Adams St.
Wednesday, June 8, 2011
Combine $10/$50 Coupon at Old Navy with Groupon!
Hey Old Navy Groupon buyers! This past weeks paper (Boston Globe) had a $10 off $50 purchase coupon in it for Old Navy good until the end of the week. I just combined this with my Groupon I bought a few days ago. Makes for a killer deal at Old Navy! Essentially, $30 for $50 worth of stuff. Remember too - that Groupon expires on July 31st so you don't have that much time to use it. Happy shopping!
Friday, June 3, 2011
Ebates - I like them!
I used to love Cashbaq until they went and died on me. I recently joined Ebates when they offered to give me my Cashbaq balance with my next purchase.
I have to say - I really like them. I like the site. I like their yellow logo. I think I'm happy.
Not a member of an internet shopping rebate site? Well you should be! I think I made about $150 with Cashbaq - and I don't even shop online much. Here's hoping I make a ton with EBATES!
Check them out by CLICKING HERE!
Thursday, June 2, 2011
Shaw's Trip - $54 becomes $12
Total Before Savings: $53.94
Total Preferred Savings: $19.46
Total Coupons Used: $22.35
Cash OOP: $12.13
2 Purex Laundry Detergents - Reg. $4.99, Sale $2.50 (2 $3/1 MFCs from paper) MADE .50 cents per bottle!
1 Cottonelle Butt Wipes - $2.85 (FREE Coupon from a Facebook promo) FREE!
Bailey's Coffee Creamer - Reg. $2.50, Sale $2.00 ($1/1 MFC from paper) $1.00
2 Aunt Jemima Frozen Waffles - Reg. $2.39, Sale $1.50 ($1/2 Coupon from Facebook) $1.00 each
4 Ronzoni Smart Taste Pastas - Reg. $1.89, Sale $1.00 (2 $1/2 MFCs from Ronzoni.com) .50 cents each
4 Ronzoni Healthy Harvest - Reg. $1.89, Sale $1.00 (2 $1/2 MFCs from Ronzoni.com) .50 cents each
2 Shaw's Ground Beefs - $3.89 each ($2/2 Shaw's Coupon at door, $3 off any meat purchase from Shaw's mailed to me) $1.39 each
2 Super Chill Seltzer Waters - Reg. .99, Sale .88 ($1/2 Shaw's Coupon at door) .38 cents each
2 Suddenly Salads - Reg. $2.49, Sale $1.00 ($1/2 MFC from Coupons.com) .50 cents each
1 Heinz Ketchup - Reg. $3.45, Sale $1.99 (.25/1 MFC from paper DOUBLED) $1.49
This sale ends today. I really just went to get the pasta and the laundry detergent. I'm looking forward to next week - I'm actually planning a Shaw's run tomorrow to get that CAT that generates two free tickets to some theme parks. Story Land is one of them and we're planning on hitting it up this August. At $24.99 a ticket (that's with the military discount) - it's worth purchasing 8 of the items they have listed in the CAT. Check your circular for participating products! It says it's only valid for the first 1,300 who redeem the certificate - whatever that means. I'm thinking it's an online code that earns you free admission to one of the places they have listed.
Breaking Down Usage of Coupons at BJ's
What? You don't use coupons at BJ's? Well you should! The best part of BJ's is that they allow you to combine BJ's coupons with MFCs. Also, they let you use multiple coupons on products that have individual barcodes. Oh whoa - I lost you there. Okay. I can break it down for you on the three different ways to combine MFCs with BJ's coupons. Here's a little picture proof of what BJ's policy is all about and how to maximize your couponage there:
One Product - Just bigger
Many products at BJ's aren't individual packages. They are just bigger boxes. Pretty much, if the individual items in the pack DO NOT have their own barcode on them, it counts as 1. Here's an example:
One Product - Just bigger
Many products at BJ's aren't individual packages. They are just bigger boxes. Pretty much, if the individual items in the pack DO NOT have their own barcode on them, it counts as 1. Here's an example:
Take for example this new product, Magnum Ice Cream bars. BJ's has a $2 off one box and there is a MFC for $1 off one box. The BJ's box has 9 bars in it. I'm going to guess the grocery store's version is either 4 or 5 bars in the box. It's not two boxes - it's still one box, hence 1 product. I can use the BJ's $2/1 coupon and my MFC for $1/1. I could not use a MFC for $1/2 on this purchase because I am not purchasing 2 boxes - just 1 box that is bigger than the grocery store version. Get it? Good.
Using Mulitple MFCs with a quanity of 1
Okay, my next example is getting as many MFCs matched up with a quanity of 1 that there are in a package. I probably lost you there. Here:
Okay. So on this one, BJ's has a coupon for $3 off a pack of 3 Coppertone sunscreen. Each of these 3 bottles has a barcode on them. So if you have 3 $1/1 MFCs, you can use them all on this pack - essentially, giving you $6 off this purchase. This is pretty much the best scenario you can score at BJ's.
Using MFCs with a quanitity greater than 1
Okay. So some products come with multiple products in the BJ's pack with individual barcodes - but you have MFCs with a quanity on it. Here is the picture:
In this example, BJ's has a coupon for $2 off a pack of Knorr Sides. There are 8 individual packs in this BJ's version. Unilever recently put out a coupon for $1/3 Knorr Sides. You don't have to be a genius to realize that 3 does not go into 8. But, you can use 2 of these $1/3 MFCs on this product since you are buying more than 6. You can not use 3 $1/3 MFCs on this purchase since you are not buying 9 packs. Now if you had 4 $1/2 MFCs, you could use all of those - but a lot of times, it doesn't work out like that.
So there you have it. What I think is a simple way of breaking down the BJ's coupon policy for those who may not completely understand how it works. Have any questions? Comment away!
Blockbuster Express - 5 Rentals For $2
Yo! Check out Groupon Orlando to score 5 Blockbuster Kiosk Rentals for just $2!
Also, Groupon Boston has $20 to Old Navy for just $10.
Remember: Ebates gives you 3% back at Groupon!
Also, Groupon Boston has $20 to Old Navy for just $10.
Remember: Ebates gives you 3% back at Groupon!
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