Free Patterned Nursing Cover

Expecting? UdderCovers is offering a free patterned nursing cover (value $32) on their website with the code "Family2011". All you pay is shipping (like $10). You can use the code as many times as you like, you just have to open a new transaction to do so.

Cranes for Kids

Oshkosh B'Gosh is currently doing a campaign through April 25th involving origami cranes to clothe children who fell victim to the tsunami/earthquake in Japan. Great way to entertain your kids on a rainy day while also providing an opportunity to provide a service for those in need. Best of all, it doesn't cost you anything but a little bit of time.

Amazon Mom

I just found out about this program this evening. Amazon offers a free mom's program that you can sign up for (you don't have to be a mom, any caregiver can sign up) that gives you 3 free month's of 2 day shipping, up to 30% discount on diapers and wipes, and an extra 15% off with subscribe and save delivery. Here is the FAQ and link to get started. Save a little cash (and some time) with delivered baby items.

Inexpensive Date Ideas

I loved the ideas mentioned on My Thirty Spot! Check out this blog for some good ideas for ways to have fun with your significant other. :)

$8 for $100 at restaurant.com

Today at friendsandfamilycircle.com you can get a $100 egift card for restaurant.com for $8. That's like 80% off. Good deal if you plan on going out to eat at any of the participating restaurants.

30% off at Old Navy

I got a coupon in my inbox for Old Navy for 30% off your purchase through 3/24. You can download and print the coupon here. I like to combine this with clearance items for maximum savings. It doesn't say you have to buy regularly priced items so you should be good to go to use it on sale/clearance items in store. Happy shopping!

Spring Fun!

As the warm temperatures are becoming more frequent as we get closer to summer, your city is probably coming alive with events! You don't necessarily have to spend money to have fun though. There are a number of free events out there just waiting for you to discover them!

Check your local malls' website and the posted advertisements throughout the mall. I noticed today when I took my son to the play area at the mall that they are holding a free family fun event at the mall with face painting and games and other fun things. I also know that our mall does Friday night concerts (music, Chick Fil A usually hands out coupons, facepainting, etc.) outside the movie theatre when the weather starts to warm up so I'll be checking their website for that as well.

Check the website for your local Parks and Recreation. The city of Virginia Beach holds many family events starting with the Cherry Blossom Festival on April 2. All of the events are free to the public.

Check the your local newspaper or their website events calendar for events in your area. Our local newspaper has a calendar that lists events by date, description, place, and cost. Those that are free are marked as such.

Check your membership bulletins for the museums, zoos, and aquariums. There are a lot of events for families or different age groups included in these newsletters that are free with your admission (which is already paid for because you are a member) or discounted since you are a member.

Check with your local Town Center (if you have one). The Virginia Beach Town Center offers all sorts of free events (art exhibits/markets on First Friday, music on the weekends and Why Not Wednesdays event with booze, music and food). They also hold a farmers market once a week or so.

Don't forget about your local library for storytime and other events. They are usually all free and provide entertainment on those less than stellar weather days (rain or cold).

Got another idea of where to check for free/low-cost entertainment this spring? Add it in the comments!

Produce Savings

Want to save some money on the produce you buy at the grocery store? Grow your own! If you've got some soil somewhere around your yard (or even if you just have a window box), you can plant your own garden. Choose fruits and vegetables that can grow in your area to ensure that you will be successful (growing mangos in New England is probably not a good idea...). I'm relatively new to the gardening thing but the fruits and vegetable seeds I planted a few weeks ago are starting to sprout in my kitchen. I'll be planting them outside after April 10 (the date recommended to plant plants in my area to avoid frost killing my sprouts).


Got any other gardening tips? Comment on this post! Us budding gardeners could reap the rewards from your advice!

Rita's Italian Ice

Check out the webpage or Facebook page or advertisements near/at your local Rita's Italian Ice. They usually give out free regular italian ices on or near the first day of spring. FYI: The one here in Virginia Beach will be giving away free ices on the first day of spring!