This post is sponsored by Juice in the City.
ROCK CLIMBING
You may have just seen our list of weekend getaways for parents in the Bay Area. If you take advantage of one of the Napa area hotels, this fun activity would be great to do with your spouse (but not if you were just wine tasting). The Napa indoor rock climbing deal gives two people climbing rights at Rockzilla in Napa - for $20 ($40 value). Get the deal today - it doesn't expire for a year.
GYMNASTICS
My son is taking his first gymnastics class, and will go for a week of camp in August. He's excited! Juice in the City has a deal now for a morning Accel Gymnastics camp in Burlingame - choose a day from 9-1 between July 11 and August 12. Just think how much you can get done in that time! Or just sit at Peet's coffee on Burlingame Avenue and enjoy some "me" time. The deal is $20 ($40 value) - but the time off is priceless.
BABY BOOT CAMP
Last deal - get in shape for a month at Baby Boot Camp in Lafayette. Bring the stroller (and the baby) for this class. It's $40 ($89 value). Buy for the next few days - it expires in a year, and includes a one month session.
Get the deals here.
This post was sponsored by Juice in the City, which is an affiliate of Frisco Kids. Buying through any affiliate link helps keep Frisco Kids going, and costs you nothing additional.
Thursday, June 30, 2011
Contest! Win Circus Vargas tickets
Don't forget to enter the contest to win a family 4-pack of tickets to Circus Vargas. Complete details here.
Contest ends Friday - so enter now!
Getaways for Parents in the San Francisco Bay Area
It's not easy to get away without the kiddies - you need someone to watch them and it takes planning! One of my online groups was brainstorming about places to go, and I thought I'd post some of them here.
Where do you like to go? Please put your favorites in the comments section!
MARIN/NAPA/SONOMA
CARNEROS INN - This was recommended because each room is a private cottage with a secluded backyard. The mom also liked that there were four restaurants on site (and it's a PlumpJack resort, so you know the food and wines are good!). Children are allowed at the inn, but it's mostly adults, she said. There's a spa and seasonal specials. They have free outdoor movies on Saturday evenings June through October.
INDIAN SPRINGS - This Calistoga hot springs and hotel offers single rooms, lodge rooms and cottages. The main pool is a hot spring pool (it's awesome - I've been). The spa and mud treatments are great too, though my experience is that the spa was a little downscale (at least for the massage facilities). I enjoyed the mud bath - it's quite an experience if you haven't had one before. One mom said she loves it "if you just want to lounge and pamper and do some fine dining and wine drinking."
MOUNTAIN VIEW INN AND SPA - This is also a Calistoga place. The mom who recommended it said you can rent a private cabana with hot tub, and still access the main pool. It's downtown, so it's easy to dine/drink close by and not need to drive.
CAVALLO POINT - I'm told that this Sausalito hotel has an amazing spa, restaurant and cooking classes, with views of the Golden Gate Bridge and Bay. It also has great hiking nearby.
VILLAGIO INN AND SPA - this Yountville hotel and spa is said to be relaxing, with a lot of nice restaurants and a great pool. Eat breakfast outside, and enjoy the complimentary afternoon tea.
MADRONA MANOR - outside Healdsburg, this hotel is in a stately old manor house that is nothing like a traditional hotel with tons of rooms. Rooms are homey (but nice) with floral touches - many
with fireplaces. The mom noted that the restaurant is pretty as well.
MANKA'S INVERNESS LODGE - an hour north of San Francisco, this hotel came recommended by a mom who loved "the most amazing breakfast delivered to your door around 9:00. If you can get #7 (room), it was unreal, just a small room, with a killer bed, real fireplace with two comfy leather chairs. A deck with a hot tub and the bathroom that was to die for - a wonderful pedastal tub and wicked cool concrete shower."
BIG SUR/SOUTH BAY/MONTEREY
TREEBONES - This Big Sur resort has cute yurts where you stay. It's an ecoresort, with an emphasis on recycling and clean energy. There are hot tubs, massages (in your yurt) and beautiful scenery/hiking. Children are allowed (4 yurts are for families). Note that there are no restrooms in the yurts - they're a 1-2 minute walk.
RITZ-CARLTON - HALF MOON BAY - The views from here are gorgeous and it's not far away. As for recreation, they have a spa, golf course, tennis, horseback riding, Segway tours, bike riding, surfing and swimming.
HIGHLANDS INN - Near Carmel, this is a beautiful location and in close enough distance to Carmel to enjoy its food and environment. The Inn, a Hyatt property, overlooks the Big Sur coast. The rooms are described by the mom recommending it, as really nice, with spa tubs in the room.
The Sanctuary Beach Resort - near Monterey, this resort is supposed to be lovely - on the sand dunes. Guest rooms have fireplaces and views of the dunes or the ocean, as well as private decks and binoculars. Take advantage of the spa too.
SPIN DRIFT INN - This Monterey hotel is said to have European-style charm (and a great history - read about it here). The hotel is on Cannery Row, with bay views.
Find Frisco Kids on Facebook.
Where do you like to go? Please put your favorites in the comments section!
MARIN/NAPA/SONOMA
CARNEROS INN - This was recommended because each room is a private cottage with a secluded backyard. The mom also liked that there were four restaurants on site (and it's a PlumpJack resort, so you know the food and wines are good!). Children are allowed at the inn, but it's mostly adults, she said. There's a spa and seasonal specials. They have free outdoor movies on Saturday evenings June through October.
INDIAN SPRINGS - This Calistoga hot springs and hotel offers single rooms, lodge rooms and cottages. The main pool is a hot spring pool (it's awesome - I've been). The spa and mud treatments are great too, though my experience is that the spa was a little downscale (at least for the massage facilities). I enjoyed the mud bath - it's quite an experience if you haven't had one before. One mom said she loves it "if you just want to lounge and pamper and do some fine dining and wine drinking."
MOUNTAIN VIEW INN AND SPA - This is also a Calistoga place. The mom who recommended it said you can rent a private cabana with hot tub, and still access the main pool. It's downtown, so it's easy to dine/drink close by and not need to drive.
CAVALLO POINT - I'm told that this Sausalito hotel has an amazing spa, restaurant and cooking classes, with views of the Golden Gate Bridge and Bay. It also has great hiking nearby.
VILLAGIO INN AND SPA - this Yountville hotel and spa is said to be relaxing, with a lot of nice restaurants and a great pool. Eat breakfast outside, and enjoy the complimentary afternoon tea.
MADRONA MANOR - outside Healdsburg, this hotel is in a stately old manor house that is nothing like a traditional hotel with tons of rooms. Rooms are homey (but nice) with floral touches - many
with fireplaces. The mom noted that the restaurant is pretty as well.
MANKA'S INVERNESS LODGE - an hour north of San Francisco, this hotel came recommended by a mom who loved "the most amazing breakfast delivered to your door around 9:00. If you can get #7 (room), it was unreal, just a small room, with a killer bed, real fireplace with two comfy leather chairs. A deck with a hot tub and the bathroom that was to die for - a wonderful pedastal tub and wicked cool concrete shower."
BIG SUR/SOUTH BAY/MONTEREY
TREEBONES - This Big Sur resort has cute yurts where you stay. It's an ecoresort, with an emphasis on recycling and clean energy. There are hot tubs, massages (in your yurt) and beautiful scenery/hiking. Children are allowed (4 yurts are for families). Note that there are no restrooms in the yurts - they're a 1-2 minute walk.
RITZ-CARLTON - HALF MOON BAY - The views from here are gorgeous and it's not far away. As for recreation, they have a spa, golf course, tennis, horseback riding, Segway tours, bike riding, surfing and swimming.
HIGHLANDS INN - Near Carmel, this is a beautiful location and in close enough distance to Carmel to enjoy its food and environment. The Inn, a Hyatt property, overlooks the Big Sur coast. The rooms are described by the mom recommending it, as really nice, with spa tubs in the room.
MONARCH COVE INN - This Capitola inn has private cabanas, and is situated on a bluff overlooking the ocean. however it is close to the beaches and downtown, and an easy drive to Santa Cruise. The mom recommending this place recommends eating breakfast at Gayles Bakery, and renting kayaks in the Monterey Bay.
The Sanctuary Beach Resort - near Monterey, this resort is supposed to be lovely - on the sand dunes. Guest rooms have fireplaces and views of the dunes or the ocean, as well as private decks and binoculars. Take advantage of the spa too.
SPIN DRIFT INN - This Monterey hotel is said to have European-style charm (and a great history - read about it here). The hotel is on Cannery Row, with bay views.
Find Frisco Kids on Facebook.
Wednesday, June 29, 2011
Sponsored Deals of the Day: Party Supplies, Facial and Mexican Food
Today's deals of the day are sponsored by Juice in the City.
Juice in the City has three deals today you might like. The first is for Mexican food in Palo Alto - Como Esta Taqueria (can you translate that?). For $6 you get $12 worth of food.
The second one is for $30 of party supplies - costing only $15 at Sweet Celebrations in the East Bay (Alamo). They offer specialty balloons, bulk candy, custom candy wrappers (great for communion, baby namings, baby showers, birthdays...). In-store purchase only.
The third deal is for our Marin readers - $62 buys you a facial at Beauty Center Wellness Salon and Spa in Novato. Deal is worth $125 and you have a whole year to use it.
Get the deals here.
Disclosure: Frisco Kids is a Juice in the City affiliate and makes a small commission for any deals sold using the links above. Affiliate links help support the website costs you nothing extra. This is a sponsored post.
Juice in the City has three deals today you might like. The first is for Mexican food in Palo Alto - Como Esta Taqueria (can you translate that?). For $6 you get $12 worth of food.
The second one is for $30 of party supplies - costing only $15 at Sweet Celebrations in the East Bay (Alamo). They offer specialty balloons, bulk candy, custom candy wrappers (great for communion, baby namings, baby showers, birthdays...). In-store purchase only.
The third deal is for our Marin readers - $62 buys you a facial at Beauty Center Wellness Salon and Spa in Novato. Deal is worth $125 and you have a whole year to use it.
Get the deals here.
Disclosure: Frisco Kids is a Juice in the City affiliate and makes a small commission for any deals sold using the links above. Affiliate links help support the website costs you nothing extra. This is a sponsored post.
Focus Groups: Communication Products, Digital Goods, Products
Some focus groups for Plaza Research, taking place in San Francisco, Mountain View and San Jose (sorry for the funky formatting - I can't seem to get it to change):
~Digital Goods~
Wednesday, June 29th-Thursday, June 30th, 1-hour interview taking place in San Jose
Requirement: Business decision makers who sell certain things online
Incentive: $150-$250
If you are interested in the Digital Goods study, please click on the link below and fill out the survey:
https://www.surveymonkey.com/s/KMB328K
~Products~ Wednesday, July 6-Friday, July 8, 1.5-hour interview taking place in San Francisco Requirement: People who use certain products online and offline Incentive: $100 If you are interested in the Products study, please click on the link below and fill out the survey: https://docs.google.com/spreadsheet/viewform?
authkey=CKSD0rUM&formkey=dElIb2xWbEZBd21rTXhwc0VuR2RrYkE6MA#gid=2 ~Communication Products~ Monday, July 11- Wednesday, July 13, 1.5-hour interview taking place in San Francisco or Mountain View Requirement: People who use certain communication tools Incentive: $100 If you are interested in the Communication Products study, please click on the link below and fill out the survey: https://docs.google.com/spreadsheet/viewform?formkey=dDNCeldCcFgyVTQ2VEh5T2l3ZG1lUUE6MA#gid=15
Circus Vargas - win tickets!
Don't forget to enter the contest to win a family 4-pack of tickets to Circus Vargas. Complete details here.
Contest ends Friday - so enter now!
Contest ends Friday - so enter now!
Deals of the Day: Bowling, Work Spaces, Little Gym, Aqua Adventure, restaurant.com, submarine
LITTLE GYM
For $30, get 4 consecutive classes ($95 value) - consecutive means same day of the week/same time, so it's like getting a month of classes. For $40 get two summer camp sessions (3 hours) - $80 value. For the deal on the San Jose page, it's good in San Jose, Sunnyvale, Milpitas, Mountain View and Morgan Hill. Ages 4 months to 12 years for classes, ages 3-8 for camp. Buy through Thursday.
The Belmont deal (on the San Francisco page) - for $45 you'll get 4 consecutive classes (see above, ages 10 months to 12 years), plus annual family membership. Total value is $129.
NEXTSPACE - DOWNTOWN SAN JOSE
If you work at home (like me) but want to get out once in awhile (or all the time) to work in an office-type space with others, check out this deal for Nextspace in San Jose. They offer a collaborative work space that you can join for the day or the month. You'll get broadband internet, networked printing, faxing, scanning, janitorial services, conference rooms, free coffee (and tea) - and other people around! Groupon is offering two deals - for $20 you'll get 5 day passes ($100 value), and for $89 you get a one month membership ($265 value). New clients only.
If you're new to Groupon, get the deal here. (It's on the San Jose page, so if another city comes up, click on the arrow next to the city at the top middle, and click on C at the top (California) - find San Jose)
If you're already a Groupon member, get the deal here.
BOWLING
AMF Bowling Centers is offering a deal - for $15 you get 2 hours of bowling and shoe rentals for two people ($47 value). It's valid at 275 locations - so you can use it if you go on vacation somewhere! In the Bay Area, you can use it in Pinole, Alameda, Milpitas, Petaluma, Santa Clara, Sacramento (okay, a little further out).
If you're new to Groupon, get the deal here. (It's on the San Jose page, so if another city comes up, click on the arrow next to the city at the top middle, and click on C at the top (California) - find San Jose)
RESTAURANT.COM
Get $25 restaurant.com certificates for $2 through 6/30/11. Use code SUMMER at checkout. Get the restaurant.com deal here.
REDBOX
50 cents off family movie rentals on Wednesdays through July 27 if you reserve online.
AQUA ADVENTURE
Hard to think about a water park with so much rain, but here's a deal. Get a family 4-pack to Aqua Adventure in Fremont for $34. Get the deal here.
SUBMARINE
For $10, get a family day pass (2 adults/2 kids) to the WW2 Submarine USS Pampanito ($20 value). Includes free tour download and kids' activity book. It's dry-docked at Fisherman's Wharf. Get the deal here.
Disclosure: Purchasing deals through a Frisco Kids affiliate link supports Frisco Kids but costs you nothing extra. Not all deal links are affiliate links.
For $30, get 4 consecutive classes ($95 value) - consecutive means same day of the week/same time, so it's like getting a month of classes. For $40 get two summer camp sessions (3 hours) - $80 value. For the deal on the San Jose page, it's good in San Jose, Sunnyvale, Milpitas, Mountain View and Morgan Hill. Ages 4 months to 12 years for classes, ages 3-8 for camp. Buy through Thursday.
The Belmont deal (on the San Francisco page) - for $45 you'll get 4 consecutive classes (see above, ages 10 months to 12 years), plus annual family membership. Total value is $129.
If you're new to Groupon, get the deal here. (The Belmont deal is on the SF page. The others are on the San Jose page, so if another city comes up, click on the arrow next to the city at the top middle, and click on C at the top (California) - find San Jose)
If you're already a Groupon member, get the Belmont deal here.
ANCESTRY.COM
Get a free trial at Ancestry.com. Free Trial - Ancestry.com US Deluxe Membership
ANCESTRY.COM
Get a free trial at Ancestry.com. Free Trial - Ancestry.com US Deluxe Membership
NEXTSPACE - DOWNTOWN SAN JOSE
If you work at home (like me) but want to get out once in awhile (or all the time) to work in an office-type space with others, check out this deal for Nextspace in San Jose. They offer a collaborative work space that you can join for the day or the month. You'll get broadband internet, networked printing, faxing, scanning, janitorial services, conference rooms, free coffee (and tea) - and other people around! Groupon is offering two deals - for $20 you'll get 5 day passes ($100 value), and for $89 you get a one month membership ($265 value). New clients only.
If you're new to Groupon, get the deal here. (It's on the San Jose page, so if another city comes up, click on the arrow next to the city at the top middle, and click on C at the top (California) - find San Jose)
If you're already a Groupon member, get the deal here.
BOWLING
AMF Bowling Centers is offering a deal - for $15 you get 2 hours of bowling and shoe rentals for two people ($47 value). It's valid at 275 locations - so you can use it if you go on vacation somewhere! In the Bay Area, you can use it in Pinole, Alameda, Milpitas, Petaluma, Santa Clara, Sacramento (okay, a little further out).
If you're new to Groupon, get the deal here. (It's on the San Jose page, so if another city comes up, click on the arrow next to the city at the top middle, and click on C at the top (California) - find San Jose)
RESTAURANT.COM
Get $25 restaurant.com certificates for $2 through 6/30/11. Use code SUMMER at checkout. Get the restaurant.com deal here.
REDBOX
50 cents off family movie rentals on Wednesdays through July 27 if you reserve online.
AQUA ADVENTURE
Hard to think about a water park with so much rain, but here's a deal. Get a family 4-pack to Aqua Adventure in Fremont for $34. Get the deal here.
SUBMARINE
For $10, get a family day pass (2 adults/2 kids) to the WW2 Submarine USS Pampanito ($20 value). Includes free tour download and kids' activity book. It's dry-docked at Fisherman's Wharf. Get the deal here.
Disclosure: Purchasing deals through a Frisco Kids affiliate link supports Frisco Kids but costs you nothing extra. Not all deal links are affiliate links.
Monday, June 27, 2011
Coming Up: Happy Birds Show at Hiller
No, not Angry Birds - Happy Birds! Hiller Aviation Museum has a happy birds show coming up. You'll see macaws, parrots and cocktoos up close. Like airplanes - without the fossil fuel. And much softer.
When: Wednesday, June 29 at 11 a.m.
Where: Hiller Aviation Museum (601 Skyway Road, San Carlos)
Cost: Museum entrance is $11/adults, $7 ages 5-17, free with paid adult for ages 0-4. Save a dollar by getting a coupon here.
More info: Hiller or call (650) 654-0200
When: Wednesday, June 29 at 11 a.m.
Where: Hiller Aviation Museum (601 Skyway Road, San Carlos)
Cost: Museum entrance is $11/adults, $7 ages 5-17, free with paid adult for ages 0-4. Save a dollar by getting a coupon here.
More info: Hiller or call (650) 654-0200
Sunday, June 26, 2011
July 4, 2011 Activities in San Francisco Bay Area
Live music, line dancing, food vendors and kids' activities, you can plan an afternoon of fun. Free admission, and a nominal fee for "tasting kits" for the cook-off. The festival runs noon to 5 p.m., with the chili tastings starting at 1:30 p.m. Mitchell Park, 600 E. Meadow Drive
JULY 4 AT SHORELINE
When I lived in Mountain View, I lived on Shoreline Blvd, and could watch the July 4 fireworks from the front steps. Granted, I couldn't hear the San Francisco Symphony playing at the same time, but I had a newborn, so it was okay. But now I'd love to go in person. The Symphony plays each July 4. You can get tickets here.
Pier 39 in San Francisco
Head to the wharf for the fourth. Festivities run noon to 9:30 p.m. for free live music, street performers, and ultimately, the fireworks!
If you live in the South Bay, head to the America Festival in San Jose, July 3-4. There you'll celebrate the many diverse cultures that make up this great country. You'll find three stages of musical entertainment and cultural performances, fantastic ethnic foods, arts and crafts, and lots of activities for all ages. Plus, fireworks on July 4th. Hours are noon to noon to 10 p.m. on July 3rd, and 11 a.m. to 10 p.m. on July 4. Location: River Park's Discovery Meadow, San Jose.
Marin County Fair - what's more American than the Preservation Jazz Hall Band? Hear them at the Marin County Fair on July 4th (the Temptations play that day too). FYI - the Pointer Sisters play at the fair on July 3rd. The fair runs June 30-July 4. Click here for the fair schedule. While every day is a good day to go to the fair, if you do go on the 4th, you can enjoy pig races, a lion dance, learn how to grow healthy vegetables (kids will love that one), Kenya safari acrobats, mule driving, goat milking, pie contest, Hawaiian music and fireworks (they have fireworks nightly). And it's one price includes all (except food) - it even includes rides and concerts. $15 for adults, $13 for kids 12 and under.
Gilroy Gardens - If you or someone you know is (or was) in the military, that person can get in free July 2-4th at Gilroy Gardens. Plus up to 6 people with that special person will pay only $22 admission. If you go on July 2-4th, Gilroy Gardens is hosting a Independence Day BBQ (separate cost).
Foster City Fireworks - bring a picnic and watch the firework display over the lagoon at Leo Ryan Park. The party goes on all day.
Redwood City Parade - this parade is more than 70 years old! And it's perfect for families with young kids who wake up early. The festival starts at 9 a.m., the parade at 10 a.m. Lots of family-friendly activities. The festival runs 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. so even if you miss the parade, you can still roll out of bed and make it to the festival.
Great America - fireworks on July 2 and 3rd at 9:30 p.m. Active or retired military personnel get in free July 2-4 (plus you can purchase discount tickets for up to 6 in immediate family).
Here are 4th of July events listed at sfkids.org, Savvy Source and Red Tricycle.
Saturday, June 25, 2011
Circus Vargas - win tickets!
The circus is coming to town! Circus Vargas, that is. And three lucky Frisco Kids readers will win a 4-pack of tickets to the show/location of their choice. Read all the way through, and you'll find out how to enter.
This circus has no animals, which means no PETA protesters out front and no PETA people sending me harassing emails after I post this. Hooray!
Here's how they describe the show: "This edition of Circus Vargas takes you on an artistic journey,
encompassing the cultures of the world, in a series of vignettes depicting the experiences, memories and visions of a traveling circus performer. Join us on a captivating jaunt across the globe, seen through the eyes of our talented aerialists, acrobats, comedians and more, as they transcend language, age and cultural barriers, through the art of circus."
There's a pre-show 30 minutes before, featuring Jon Weiss of the Amazing Race. Check out some circus photos here.
Here's the schedule:
Dublin: July 8-18
(I-580 - at the vacant lot near Hacienda Crossings)
Newark: July 21-25
(NewPark Mall)
Hayward: July 28 - August 1
(Southland Mall)
San Jose: August 4-8
(Westfield Oakridge)
San Jose: August 11-15
(San Jose Fleamarket)
How to win tickets: Leave a comment on this post about your favorite type of circus act. Get an extra entry if you post this on Facebook or Twitter (leave another comment with a link so you'll be entered again and I can track you). Get yet another entry if you subscribe to Frisco Kids emails.
Though we'll choose three winners overall, you can only win one set of tickets. Winners will be chosen randomly. Enter by Friday, July 1st at noon Pacific time. Winners will be contacted by email, so if your email address isn't on the entry, you can email me at blog at friscokids.net and let me know which entry is yours. If I don't hear back from you by July 5, I will contact another winner (I know, it's a holiday weekend!).
This circus has no animals, which means no PETA protesters out front and no PETA people sending me harassing emails after I post this. Hooray!
Here's how they describe the show: "This edition of Circus Vargas takes you on an artistic journey,
encompassing the cultures of the world, in a series of vignettes depicting the experiences, memories and visions of a traveling circus performer. Join us on a captivating jaunt across the globe, seen through the eyes of our talented aerialists, acrobats, comedians and more, as they transcend language, age and cultural barriers, through the art of circus."
There's a pre-show 30 minutes before, featuring Jon Weiss of the Amazing Race. Check out some circus photos here.
Here's the schedule:
Dublin: July 8-18
(I-580 - at the vacant lot near Hacienda Crossings)
Newark: July 21-25
(NewPark Mall)
Hayward: July 28 - August 1
(Southland Mall)
San Jose: August 4-8
(Westfield Oakridge)
San Jose: August 11-15
(San Jose Fleamarket)
How to win tickets: Leave a comment on this post about your favorite type of circus act. Get an extra entry if you post this on Facebook or Twitter (leave another comment with a link so you'll be entered again and I can track you). Get yet another entry if you subscribe to Frisco Kids emails.
Though we'll choose three winners overall, you can only win one set of tickets. Winners will be chosen randomly. Enter by Friday, July 1st at noon Pacific time. Winners will be contacted by email, so if your email address isn't on the entry, you can email me at blog at friscokids.net and let me know which entry is yours. If I don't hear back from you by July 5, I will contact another winner (I know, it's a holiday weekend!).
Focus Groups: websites, communications products, smartphones, products
Some focus groups coming up:
WEBSITES
WEBSITES
Fleischman Field Research has one on websites. The research is taking place at various times on Wednesday, July 6th at their downtown SF office. If you qualify and are invited to participate, you will be paid $100.
If you are interested in participating, click the link to take the short pre-qualification questionnaire.
Plaza Research has other ones:
Smartphone Users~Thursday, June 30 or Friday, July 1st, 1.5-hour interview taking place in Mountain View
Requirement: People 18 and up who own a smartphone
Incentive: $100
If you are interested in the Smartphone Users study, please click on the link below and fill out the survey:
https://docs.google.com/spreadsheet/viewform?formkey=dG1yMDFhYm4xV3pfemYtMmc0Yjdza3c6MA#gid=2
~Products~
Wednesday, July 6-Friday, July 8, 1.5-hour interview taking place in San Francisco
Requirement: People who use certain products online and offline
Incentive: $100
If you are interested in the Products study, please click on the link below and fill out the survey:
https://docs.google.com/spreadsheet/viewform?authkey=CKSD0rUM&formkey=dElIb2xWbEZBd21rTXhwc0VuR2RrYkE6MA#gid=2
~Communication Products~
Monday, July 11- Wednesday, July 13, 1.5-hour interview taking place in San Francisco or Mountain View
Requirement: People who use certain communication tools
Incentive: $100
If you are interested in the Communication Products study, please click on the link below and fill out the survey:
https://docs.google.com/spreadsheet/viewform?formkey=dDNCeldCcFgyVTQ2VEh5T2l3ZG1lUUE6MA#gid=15Friday, June 24, 2011
New Sponsor - Juice in the City
Thank you to Juice in the City for sponsoring this post today.
I'm always a little wary when I get an email asking me to affiliate with a company. I get a lot of emails from website marketers asking me to add their link to my blogroll or do a post on them. Often it's clear the person sending the email (if there is an actual person behind it), has never looked at Frisco Kids, because they want me to link up with sites that are SO not appropriate to my readers.
But in the course of writing this blog the past three years (yes, I'm approaching my three year blogiversary!) I've entered into a fabulous community of readers (you!), others bloggers, writers, publishers and even advertisers (who HAVE read Frisco Kids).
You know I like writing about deals good for parents and families. I was an early adopter of Groupon and have been racing to keep up with the companies that started since then. I scour the deal sites not just for you, but for me too. I think I get about 50 emails a day with various group buying deals, and my husband always rolls his eyes when I tell him about my latest score. Of course he usually thanks me after we cash in on (or experience) the deal.
So, it was nice to get an email one day from Juice in the City asking if I'd like to affiliate with them. Given that USA Today called them "Groupon for Moms" I was interested. I've been on their email list I think since they launched on Mother's Day, 2010. Plus it was started in the Bay Area (in San Mateo). Local moms find the deals, and it's often locally-owned businesses featured.
In addition to bringing you the regular "deals of the day" posts you expect from Frisco Kids, I'll also be bringing you "sponsored deals of the day" highlighting Juice in the City deals that I think you'd like. (Today's deals are $40 for $80 in services at Eden Day Spa, $9 for two visits to Studio Grow, and $15 for $30 at Original Nick's Pizzeria).
Find Frisco Kids on Facebook, along with Juice in the City San Francisco, and Juice in the City East Bay. And though I don't tweet as often as I should, find me on Twitter @friscokids, and Juice is @juiceinthecity.
This post was sponsored by Juice in the City, however the content/writing is all mine.
I'm always a little wary when I get an email asking me to affiliate with a company. I get a lot of emails from website marketers asking me to add their link to my blogroll or do a post on them. Often it's clear the person sending the email (if there is an actual person behind it), has never looked at Frisco Kids, because they want me to link up with sites that are SO not appropriate to my readers.
But in the course of writing this blog the past three years (yes, I'm approaching my three year blogiversary!) I've entered into a fabulous community of readers (you!), others bloggers, writers, publishers and even advertisers (who HAVE read Frisco Kids).
You know I like writing about deals good for parents and families. I was an early adopter of Groupon and have been racing to keep up with the companies that started since then. I scour the deal sites not just for you, but for me too. I think I get about 50 emails a day with various group buying deals, and my husband always rolls his eyes when I tell him about my latest score. Of course he usually thanks me after we cash in on (or experience) the deal.
So, it was nice to get an email one day from Juice in the City asking if I'd like to affiliate with them. Given that USA Today called them "Groupon for Moms" I was interested. I've been on their email list I think since they launched on Mother's Day, 2010. Plus it was started in the Bay Area (in San Mateo). Local moms find the deals, and it's often locally-owned businesses featured.
In addition to bringing you the regular "deals of the day" posts you expect from Frisco Kids, I'll also be bringing you "sponsored deals of the day" highlighting Juice in the City deals that I think you'd like. (Today's deals are $40 for $80 in services at Eden Day Spa, $9 for two visits to Studio Grow, and $15 for $30 at Original Nick's Pizzeria).
Find Frisco Kids on Facebook, along with Juice in the City San Francisco, and Juice in the City East Bay. And though I don't tweet as often as I should, find me on Twitter @friscokids, and Juice is @juiceinthecity.
This post was sponsored by Juice in the City, however the content/writing is all mine.
Coming Up: Lucile Packard Children's Hospital throws Street Fair to Celebrate 20th anniv.
Lucile Packard Children's Hospital is celebrating its 20th anniversary with a big party for the community on Sunday. They'll have 75 booths, with games, crafts, art, bounce houses, performances, fire trucks (you can climb on) and food - plus giveaway items. The San Francisco Giants mascot, Gigante, will be there as well.
When: Sunday, June 26 from 10-4
Where: Palo Alto, intersection of Quarry and Welch Roads
Cost: Free
When: Sunday, June 26 from 10-4
Where: Palo Alto, intersection of Quarry and Welch Roads
Cost: Free
Deals of the Day: Billy Elliot ticket discounts, movie tix discounts, Old Navy $2 tank tops, steak, restaurant and more
Some deals for the weekend:
STEAK
I'm not a big red meat eater (I'd be just as happy if I never ate cow again), but my hubby and daughter like it. So I just snagged this on Plum District Deals. For $65 ($130 value), you get a package of 12 steaks, including 4 ribeyes (8 oz), 4 sirloins (8 oz) and 4 flatirons (7 oz) - all Angus Certified Beef. But wait, there's more! Use the code SIZZLING at checkout through today (under "enter promotional code") and save 30% - so you'll get the deal, which includes shipping, for $46. I hope the link I put there includes the promo code box.
BILLY ELLIOT DISCOUNT TICKETS
Billy Elliot opens in San Francisco at the Orpheum on June 27, running through September 17, 2011.
Get discounted orchestra and mezzanine tickets for $58 for shows June 28-July 1, 2011. Use code 8ELLIOT when ordering online or by phone (888) 746-1799. Convenience fees apply, unless you buy at the box office. Discount code is valid there too.
Don't forget to read a family-friendly review of Billy Elliot here.
BLUE LIGHT CINEMA
Several options for this Cupertino movie theater deal. For $15, get 2 movie tickets, 2 popcorns and 2 sodas. Pay more, get more.
JAMBA JUICE
Get $2 breakfast wraps with drink purchase, through 6/30/11.
CUPCAKES
Get $15 in cupcakes for $6 from San Francisco's That Takes the Cake.
If you're new to Groupon, get the deal here.
If you're already a Groupon user, get the deal here.
RESTAURANT.COM
Get $25 restaurant.com certificates for $2 through 6/30/11, using code SUMMER.
OLD NAVY TANK TOPS
Get $2 tank tops at Old Navy today (using this coupon) or tomorrow without a coupon. I think. Maybe bring it just in case.
KEPLER'S
Get 20% off purchases of $50+ using discount code ICE CREAM online or in the store.
Buying deals through affiliate links supports Frisco Kids. Not all links are affiliate links.
STEAK
I'm not a big red meat eater (I'd be just as happy if I never ate cow again), but my hubby and daughter like it. So I just snagged this on Plum District Deals. For $65 ($130 value), you get a package of 12 steaks, including 4 ribeyes (8 oz), 4 sirloins (8 oz) and 4 flatirons (7 oz) - all Angus Certified Beef. But wait, there's more! Use the code SIZZLING at checkout through today (under "enter promotional code") and save 30% - so you'll get the deal, which includes shipping, for $46. I hope the link I put there includes the promo code box.
BILLY ELLIOT DISCOUNT TICKETS
Billy Elliot opens in San Francisco at the Orpheum on June 27, running through September 17, 2011.
Get discounted orchestra and mezzanine tickets for $58 for shows June 28-July 1, 2011. Use code 8ELLIOT when ordering online or by phone (888) 746-1799. Convenience fees apply, unless you buy at the box office. Discount code is valid there too.
Don't forget to read a family-friendly review of Billy Elliot here.
BLUE LIGHT CINEMA
Several options for this Cupertino movie theater deal. For $15, get 2 movie tickets, 2 popcorns and 2 sodas. Pay more, get more.
JAMBA JUICE
Get $2 breakfast wraps with drink purchase, through 6/30/11.
CUPCAKES
Get $15 in cupcakes for $6 from San Francisco's That Takes the Cake.
If you're new to Groupon, get the deal here.
If you're already a Groupon user, get the deal here.
RESTAURANT.COM
Get $25 restaurant.com certificates for $2 through 6/30/11, using code SUMMER.
OLD NAVY TANK TOPS
Get $2 tank tops at Old Navy today (using this coupon) or tomorrow without a coupon. I think. Maybe bring it just in case.
KEPLER'S
Get 20% off purchases of $50+ using discount code ICE CREAM online or in the store.
Buying deals through affiliate links supports Frisco Kids. Not all links are affiliate links.
Wednesday, June 22, 2011
Summer Camp - are you done?
Summer has officially started. Are your kids booked for camp yet? Silly question, I know. A few years ago, when the economy was better, all the camps seemed to be filled by February. As for us, we still have one more week of camp to fill for my daughter. She wants to stay home, sleep in and play with her friends (who will all be at camp that week). But she's vetoing all my suggestions, and she doesn't understand that I need those hours to work (you know, to pay for camp).
Anyway, SignUpForCamp.com can help you find a camp based on your needed weeks, or even days, if you need a flexible schedule. Waiting can bring discounts, too. Check out these camps which are offering discounts for late sign-up.
Anyway, SignUpForCamp.com can help you find a camp based on your needed weeks, or even days, if you need a flexible schedule. Waiting can bring discounts, too. Check out these camps which are offering discounts for late sign-up.
Focus Groups: Health and Wellness, Online Activities
A few focus groups for Plaza Research:
~Health and Wellness~ Tuesday June 21st, Wednesday June 22nd, or Thursday June 23rd, 1.5-hour interview in San Francisco. Requirement: Couples interested in Health and Wellness Incentive: $250.00 per couple If you are interested in the Health and Wellness study, please click on the link below and fill out the survey: https://www.surveymonkey.com/s/8MJJNKB
~Online Activities #10~ Tuesday, June 28th & Wednesday, June 29th, 45-minute individual interview in Mountain View Requirement: People 18 and up Incentive: $75 If you are interested in the Online Activities #10 study, please click on the link below and fill out the survey: https://www.surveymonkey.com/s/757ZVQG
Tuesday, June 21, 2011
Summer Solstice Celebration - Muir Beach - tonight
If you haven't made plans for tonight yet, take the kids to the summer solstice celebration at Muir Beach, from 6-8 p.m. Storytelling, songs and a bonfire. And it's free.
Read FrogMom's account of the the summer solstice celebration last year.
Read FrogMom's account of the the summer solstice celebration last year.
Sponsored Deal of the Day: Corte Madera Book Passage
I love independent bookstores, and Corte Madera's Book Passage is one of them. They have great author readings, a cute cafe and a world-renown travel writer's conference (I haven't yet been, but want to go). Help support a locally owned bookstore by getting a great deal with Juice in the City's $10 for $30 in books and merchandise. You have until December 20, 2011 to use it.
Get the deal here today! There's a limited quantity available.
This is sponsored content, but this is exactly what I would have written and promoted on my blog even without sponsorship.
Get the deal here today! There's a limited quantity available.
This is sponsored content, but this is exactly what I would have written and promoted on my blog even without sponsorship.
Deals of the Day: CuriOdyssey, Seussical the Musical, July 4 at Shoreline, USS Hornet
Some deals for you today:
CURIODYSSEY
You might know CuriOdyssey as Coyote Point (I know I do). I've spent many hours, Toddler Tuesdays, Saturdays, Sundays and Thursdays with my kids at this great ecomuseum. They have animal shows, a butterfly garden (which is very peaceful), animal exhibits, changing exhibits, story time and more. It's in San Mateo, with acres of wooded parkland surrounding it (and the bay). Plus there's a fabulous nearby Magic Mountain playground. Groupon is offering $2 child's admission tickets for the next three days.
If you're new to Groupon, get the deal here.
If you're already a Groupon user, get the deal here.
SEUSSICAL THE MUSICAL
I love this show! The tunes are so catchy and my kids hate it when I sing it. So I do it all the time. The Berkeley Playhouse is featuring the musical now, and you can get half price tickets on Groupon, starting at $15. Buy through Friday. The shows aren't until July and August - choose your weekend dates/times.
USS HORNET
Groupon s a great deal on the fabulous aircraft carrier museum in Alameda. We went there with my dad, who loves this stuff. Even the kids had fun. Take a tour and go to the lookout tower. Ride the platform elevator that is so big it transports planes between decks. See a model of the Apollo 11 command module Columbia, that the first astronauts to walk on the moon, came back to earth in. The USS Hornet picked them up and had astronauts Buzz Aldrin, Neil Armstrong and Michael Collins in in, and was recovered from th USS Hornet and put in quarantine (you can see the quarantine trailer). If that's not enough, there are all kinds of helicopters, airplanes, a simulator ride (extra fee), and you can tour the living quarters. This would be a great Father's Day activity.
The deal: get 2 admissions for $15 (a $30 value). Use by December 31, 2011. You can buy several to use during the same visit.
If you're new to Groupon, get the deal here - on the San Francisco page.
If you're already a Groupon user, get the deal here.
JULY 4 AT SHORELINE
When I lived in Mountain View, I lived on Shoreline Blvd, and could watch the July 4 fireworks from the front steps. Granted, I couldn't hear the San Francisco Symphony playing at the same time, but I had a newborn, so it was okay. But now I'd love to go in person. The Symphony plays each July 4, and you can get half priced tickets on Groupon - only $20 each. You can buy 8 of them - so bring your friends!
If you're new to Groupon, get the deal here - on the San Francisco page.
If you're already a Groupon user, get the deal here.
CURIODYSSEY
You might know CuriOdyssey as Coyote Point (I know I do). I've spent many hours, Toddler Tuesdays, Saturdays, Sundays and Thursdays with my kids at this great ecomuseum. They have animal shows, a butterfly garden (which is very peaceful), animal exhibits, changing exhibits, story time and more. It's in San Mateo, with acres of wooded parkland surrounding it (and the bay). Plus there's a fabulous nearby Magic Mountain playground. Groupon is offering $2 child's admission tickets for the next three days.
If you're new to Groupon, get the deal here.
If you're already a Groupon user, get the deal here.
SEUSSICAL THE MUSICAL
I love this show! The tunes are so catchy and my kids hate it when I sing it. So I do it all the time. The Berkeley Playhouse is featuring the musical now, and you can get half price tickets on Groupon, starting at $15. Buy through Friday. The shows aren't until July and August - choose your weekend dates/times.
If you're new to Groupon, get the deal here.
USS HORNET
Groupon s a great deal on the fabulous aircraft carrier museum in Alameda. We went there with my dad, who loves this stuff. Even the kids had fun. Take a tour and go to the lookout tower. Ride the platform elevator that is so big it transports planes between decks. See a model of the Apollo 11 command module Columbia, that the first astronauts to walk on the moon, came back to earth in. The USS Hornet picked them up and had astronauts Buzz Aldrin, Neil Armstrong and Michael Collins in in, and was recovered from th USS Hornet and put in quarantine (you can see the quarantine trailer). If that's not enough, there are all kinds of helicopters, airplanes, a simulator ride (extra fee), and you can tour the living quarters. This would be a great Father's Day activity.
The deal: get 2 admissions for $15 (a $30 value). Use by December 31, 2011. You can buy several to use during the same visit.
If you're new to Groupon, get the deal here - on the San Francisco page.
If you're already a Groupon user, get the deal here.
JULY 4 AT SHORELINE
When I lived in Mountain View, I lived on Shoreline Blvd, and could watch the July 4 fireworks from the front steps. Granted, I couldn't hear the San Francisco Symphony playing at the same time, but I had a newborn, so it was okay. But now I'd love to go in person. The Symphony plays each July 4, and you can get half priced tickets on Groupon - only $20 each. You can buy 8 of them - so bring your friends!
If you're new to Groupon, get the deal here - on the San Francisco page.
If you're already a Groupon user, get the deal here.
Monday, June 20, 2011
Deals of the Day: Free Peet's, Habitot, Bounce U, USS Hornet, Abe's Market
A few deals to get your day going.
FREE PEET'S COFFEE
"Like" Peet's on Facebook today and get a free small coffee.
ABE'S MARKET
This natural good store is offering $40 of goods for $20 today on Groupon. You can redeem it online. Good for personal care products, food, baby clothes, green cleaning products, pet care, gluten-free items, and much more.
If you're new to Groupon, get the deal here. It's on the New York City page (go to the city at the top and click the arrow next to it, then find "N" for New York and find NYC).
If you're already a Groupon user, get it here.
USS HORNET
Groupon s a great deal on the fabulous aircraft carrier museum in Alameda. We went there with my dad, who loves this stuff. Even the kids had fun. Take a tour and go to the lookout tower. Ride the platform elevator that is so big it transports planes between decks. See a model of the Apollo 11 command module Columbia, that the first astronauts to walk on the moon, came back to earth in. The USS Hornet picked them up and had astronauts Buzz Aldrin, Neil Armstrong and Michael Collins in in, and was recovered from th USS Hornet and put in quarantine (you can see the quarantine trailer). If that's not enough, there are all kinds of helicopters, airplanes, a simulator ride (extra fee), and you can tour the living quarters. This would be a great Father's Day activity.
The deal: get 2 admissions for $15 (a $30 value). Use by December 31, 2011. You can buy several to use during the same visit.
If you're new to Groupon, get the deal here - on the San Francisco page.
If you're already a Groupon user, get the deal here.
BOUNCE U
These passes will come in handy when you're looking to kill a few hours with the kids this summer. Bounce U in San Carlos is offering five passes for open bounce, for $17 ($35 value). Buy today only.
FREE PEET'S COFFEE
"Like" Peet's on Facebook today and get a free small coffee.
ABE'S MARKET
This natural good store is offering $40 of goods for $20 today on Groupon. You can redeem it online. Good for personal care products, food, baby clothes, green cleaning products, pet care, gluten-free items, and much more.
If you're new to Groupon, get the deal here. It's on the New York City page (go to the city at the top and click the arrow next to it, then find "N" for New York and find NYC).
If you're already a Groupon user, get it here.
USS HORNET
Groupon s a great deal on the fabulous aircraft carrier museum in Alameda. We went there with my dad, who loves this stuff. Even the kids had fun. Take a tour and go to the lookout tower. Ride the platform elevator that is so big it transports planes between decks. See a model of the Apollo 11 command module Columbia, that the first astronauts to walk on the moon, came back to earth in. The USS Hornet picked them up and had astronauts Buzz Aldrin, Neil Armstrong and Michael Collins in in, and was recovered from th USS Hornet and put in quarantine (you can see the quarantine trailer). If that's not enough, there are all kinds of helicopters, airplanes, a simulator ride (extra fee), and you can tour the living quarters. This would be a great Father's Day activity.
The deal: get 2 admissions for $15 (a $30 value). Use by December 31, 2011. You can buy several to use during the same visit.
If you're new to Groupon, get the deal here - on the San Francisco page.
If you're already a Groupon user, get the deal here.
BOUNCE U
These passes will come in handy when you're looking to kill a few hours with the kids this summer. Bounce U in San Carlos is offering five passes for open bounce, for $17 ($35 value). Buy today only.
If you're new to Groupon, get the deal here - on the San Francisco page.
Get 15 passes to the Berkeley tot museum Habitot for $37 ($75 value). But the deal through Thursday, use for a year (though you must redeem them by September 30 - then they're good for a year). Get the deal through Mamapedia.
Get $25 restaurant.com certificates for $3 today, using code DAD at checkout. Code is good through Tuesday, June 21.
Purchasing through some of these affiliate links supports Frisco Kids, but costs you nothing extra.
Sunday, June 19, 2011
Coming Up: Craft Events at Michael's - Passport to Fun
Michael's Arts & Crafts is doing a Passport to Fun craft series, where you'll make crafts representing different countries. All crafts are free.
Tuesday, June 21 from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. Make a Swedish doll and flag.
Thursday, June 23 from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. Make a German hat and bell.
Saturday, June 25 from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. Make Egyptian hieroglyphs and mummy.
Tuesday, June 28 from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. Make Bahamian tropical can hug and flower.
Thursday, June 20 from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. Make Canadian moose and maple leaf.
Tuesday, June 21 from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. Make a Swedish doll and flag.
Thursday, June 23 from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. Make a German hat and bell.
Saturday, June 25 from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. Make Egyptian hieroglyphs and mummy.
Tuesday, June 28 from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. Make Bahamian tropical can hug and flower.
Thursday, June 20 from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. Make Canadian moose and maple leaf.
Friday, June 17, 2011
Go the F*&@ to Sleep - a Book Review
Soon after my daughter was born, someone asked my husband if she had a nickname. "Yes," he replied. "We call her Shut the F*@^ up." The person looked horrified, but didn't understand how much she cried and how tired we were. She cried for hours a day for no apparent reason (i.e. colic) and she cried for at least 45 minutes each night when we put her to bed. Before you write me telling me what horrible, uncaring parents we are, know that we tried every technique in the book. She finally grew out of the nighttime crying and the daytime crying too. And we don't call her "Shut the F*#* up anymore (we never called her that to her face).
So imagine how happy I was when I heard about the book Go the Fuck to Sleep
by Adam Mansbach. I grew instantly jealous. Not because this book is going to rake in a lot of money (though I would like to be a best-selling author profiting from this gem), but because I wish I thought to write it myself. It's brilliant. I got a leaked copy a few months ago and my husband and I were laughing so hard we cried.
It reads like a traditional bedtime story with perfect rhymes and meter, telling the story of a child who won't go to sleep, and the parents who are at their wit's end. Here's a sample page:
"All the kids from daycare are in dreamland.
The froggie has made his last leap.
Hell no, you can't go to the bathroom.
You know where you can go? The fuck to sleep."
You can listen to Samuel L. Jackson tell the story Go the Fuck to Sleep on YouTube (or just look at the embedded link below). Read the story behind the story in this Star Ledger review.
Want to get Go the Fuck to Sleep for yourself? It just came out this week.
So imagine how happy I was when I heard about the book Go the Fuck to Sleep
by Adam Mansbach. I grew instantly jealous. Not because this book is going to rake in a lot of money (though I would like to be a best-selling author profiting from this gem), but because I wish I thought to write it myself. It's brilliant. I got a leaked copy a few months ago and my husband and I were laughing so hard we cried.It reads like a traditional bedtime story with perfect rhymes and meter, telling the story of a child who won't go to sleep, and the parents who are at their wit's end. Here's a sample page:
"All the kids from daycare are in dreamland.
The froggie has made his last leap.
Hell no, you can't go to the bathroom.
You know where you can go? The fuck to sleep."
You can listen to Samuel L. Jackson tell the story Go the Fuck to Sleep on YouTube (or just look at the embedded link below). Read the story behind the story in this Star Ledger review.
Want to get Go the Fuck to Sleep
for yourself? It just came out this week.Coming Up: Kids World Events at Serramonte Center
Come to Serramonte Center for "KidsWorld," a free, fun and educational after school monthly program.
According to Serramonte, "KidsWorld events include festive, interactive performances with singing, dancing, games, crafts and fun learning opportunities. Each event teaches students a variety of topics including music, culture, art and even etiquette. The after school program also provides a place for kids to come and socialize in a fun, safe and educational environment. Each monthly event is themed and filled with arts and crafts activities, hands-on fun, festive music and more."
Here's the next event:
According to Serramonte, "KidsWorld events include festive, interactive performances with singing, dancing, games, crafts and fun learning opportunities. Each event teaches students a variety of topics including music, culture, art and even etiquette. The after school program also provides a place for kids to come and socialize in a fun, safe and educational environment. Each monthly event is themed and filled with arts and crafts activities, hands-on fun, festive music and more."
Here's the next event:
Tuesday, June 20, at 5:30
Membership is free, and is good for discounts throughout the shopping center, entry into free monthly events and more.
The event is at the Serramonte Center, in the JC Penny wing, between Diamonds Forever and For Love 21)
Membership is free, and is good for discounts throughout the shopping center, entry into free monthly events and more.
The event is at the Serramonte Center, in the JC Penny wing, between Diamonds Forever and For Love 21)
Thursday, June 16, 2011
Deals of the Day: Conservatory of Flowers, Sesame Street Live, restaurant.com
A few deals:
CONSERVATORY OF FLOWERS
If you haven't yet been to the new show at the Conservatory of Flowers, "Wicked Plants: Botanical Rogues and Assassins," you can get 50% admission through Thursday at Town Hog or SF Gate. Different site name, but the format looks the same. Hmmmm. Get 2 admissions for $7 for this deal. Use by October, 30, 2011.
SESAME STREET LIVE
Plum District Deals is offering 25% off tickets to Sesame Street Live: Elmo's Healthy Heroes. Tickets on Plum are $15, value is $20. Get them here.
RESTAURANT.COM
Get $25 restaurant.com certificates for $4, using code FLAG through today.
Disclosure: by purchasing with some Frisco Kids links, you will be supporting the website, but not costing yourself anything extra.
CONSERVATORY OF FLOWERS
If you haven't yet been to the new show at the Conservatory of Flowers, "Wicked Plants: Botanical Rogues and Assassins," you can get 50% admission through Thursday at Town Hog or SF Gate. Different site name, but the format looks the same. Hmmmm. Get 2 admissions for $7 for this deal. Use by October, 30, 2011.
SESAME STREET LIVE
Plum District Deals is offering 25% off tickets to Sesame Street Live: Elmo's Healthy Heroes. Tickets on Plum are $15, value is $20. Get them here.
RESTAURANT.COM
Get $25 restaurant.com certificates for $4, using code FLAG through today.
Disclosure: by purchasing with some Frisco Kids links, you will be supporting the website, but not costing yourself anything extra.
Wednesday, June 15, 2011
Coming Up: Screenprinting Your Family History
The Museum of the African Diaspora has a family exhibit coming up, screenprinting your family history. Here's what the museum says about its program
"The Family is a key iconic image in Romare Bearden’s art. Inspired by Juneteenth, the oldest African-American holiday commemorating the end of slavery in the United States, our Family Day activity honors ancestry and the preservation of family relationships. Visitors will create family trees and families will screen print a collage using their own hands as branches, and leaf shapes for writing in the names of their family members."
When: Saturday, June 18 from noon to 4
Where: Museum of the African Diaspora
Cost: Free with MOAD admission ($10/adults, $5/students, free kids 10 and under)
"The Family is a key iconic image in Romare Bearden’s art. Inspired by Juneteenth, the oldest African-American holiday commemorating the end of slavery in the United States, our Family Day activity honors ancestry and the preservation of family relationships. Visitors will create family trees and families will screen print a collage using their own hands as branches, and leaf shapes for writing in the names of their family members."
When: Saturday, June 18 from noon to 4
Where: Museum of the African Diaspora
Cost: Free with MOAD admission ($10/adults, $5/students, free kids 10 and under)
Coming Up: Peace. Love. Swap event in East Bay
The nonprofit organization, peace. love. swap. is hosting a kids' swap this Sunday, June 19th. No, don't swap your kids. Swap their stuff. Clothes, high chairs. Strollers. Come and bring your stuff (clothes on hangers, except 0-18 month clothes). It's like a giant garage sale where everything is free! Bring/get stuff for ages 0-14, plus maternity clothes.
Anything not taken will be donated to charity afterwards.
What: peace. love. swap - see their website for more info and FAQ on how it works
Where: Head over Heels Gymnastics, 4701 Doyle Street, Building F, Emeryville (no parking in that lot - see website for parking info)
When: Sunday, June 19, 2011. Drop off between 11 a.m. & noon. The swap is 12:30 p.m. to 1:30.
Cost: $5 (free for volunteers) - plus your stuff. There's open play for the kids for $5.
Find Frisco Kids on Facebook!
Anything not taken will be donated to charity afterwards.
What: peace. love. swap - see their website for more info and FAQ on how it works
Where: Head over Heels Gymnastics, 4701 Doyle Street, Building F, Emeryville (no parking in that lot - see website for parking info)
When: Sunday, June 19, 2011. Drop off between 11 a.m. & noon. The swap is 12:30 p.m. to 1:30.
Cost: $5 (free for volunteers) - plus your stuff. There's open play for the kids for $5.
Find Frisco Kids on Facebook!
Tuesday, June 14, 2011
Link Love - What I'm reading this week
Some links to pass along to you - of interest to parents and kids in the Bay Area!
--Seen the Zeppelin riding over San Francisco (that thing that looks like a blimp)? Get some great pictures of what it's like to ride in one. And see how much of the Bay Area you can identify by air.
--Have you eaten at the American Grilled Cheese Kitchen? This made me really hungry - and I just had dinner.
--78 things to do this summer (Red Tricycle)
--Billy Elliot is coming to San Francisco on June 27. Read a kid-friendly/family-friendly review of Billy Elliot here. A hint: it's a GREAT show for boys and girls. And parents.
--Speaking of Billy Elliot, did you see the opening number from the Tony's, with Neil Patrick Harris? I won't give away the number's title, but it's awesome. I can't wait to see the Book of Mormon.
--Frog Mom in California just posted a great round-up of fun things to do for a weekend in Napa - with the kids. Waterfalls, bakery and swimming at Coppola's winery (which I had mentioned in a previous post). If you need a babysitter while you're in Napa/wine country (going to a wedding or want an evening out with the spouse), consider All About Kids, who has a sitter service there (disclosure: and is a Frisco Kids advertiser).
--We've been known to make our kids exercise in the airport, to get out their shpilkes (energy) before boarding the plane. We do this by making them climb stairs, run races (when it's not too crowded) and walk back and forth on the people mover (not standing, but walking). Well, hotels.com has an adult workout that we may have the kids try next time we fly. Okay, maybe we'll do it with them. We'll look like idiots, but hey - we look like idiots anyway. The video is kind of amusing - plus they all have British accents which is always a pleasure to listen to.
--Seen the Zeppelin riding over San Francisco (that thing that looks like a blimp)? Get some great pictures of what it's like to ride in one. And see how much of the Bay Area you can identify by air.
--Have you eaten at the American Grilled Cheese Kitchen? This made me really hungry - and I just had dinner.
--78 things to do this summer (Red Tricycle)
--Billy Elliot is coming to San Francisco on June 27. Read a kid-friendly/family-friendly review of Billy Elliot here. A hint: it's a GREAT show for boys and girls. And parents.
--Speaking of Billy Elliot, did you see the opening number from the Tony's, with Neil Patrick Harris? I won't give away the number's title, but it's awesome. I can't wait to see the Book of Mormon.
--Frog Mom in California just posted a great round-up of fun things to do for a weekend in Napa - with the kids. Waterfalls, bakery and swimming at Coppola's winery (which I had mentioned in a previous post). If you need a babysitter while you're in Napa/wine country (going to a wedding or want an evening out with the spouse), consider All About Kids, who has a sitter service there (disclosure: and is a Frisco Kids advertiser).
--We've been known to make our kids exercise in the airport, to get out their shpilkes (energy) before boarding the plane. We do this by making them climb stairs, run races (when it's not too crowded) and walk back and forth on the people mover (not standing, but walking). Well, hotels.com has an adult workout that we may have the kids try next time we fly. Okay, maybe we'll do it with them. We'll look like idiots, but hey - we look like idiots anyway. The video is kind of amusing - plus they all have British accents which is always a pleasure to listen to.
Monday, June 13, 2011
Deals of the Day: Free Oprah unauthorized biography, Cartoon Art Museum, FamilyFun, restaurant, Peet's
Some fun deals for you today:
FREE OPRAH BOOK
The World According to Oprah
- this unauthorized biography is FREE if you get the Kindle version. Not sure how long this will last. I read an excerpt online - juicy stuff.
Speaking of Oprah, get the O magazine for half off ($9) on Amazon - that's a good deal.
PEET'S
$1 off Peet's today - excluding juice/bottled drinks.
CARTOON ART MUSEUM
Cartoon Art Museum - get a 2 hour drawing class for up to 20 people (or you can use it for private/semi-private lessons) for $100. How fun would this be for a birthday party (age 8 and over)? Get it today on Groupon.
If you're new to Groupon, get the deal here.
If you're already a Groupon user, get the deal here.
FAMILYFUN MAGAZINE
$5 a one year subscription to FamilyFun, or $10 for two years. Great magazine which I get (and write for). Get it at LivingSocial.
RESTAURANT.COM
Get $25 restaurant.com certificate for $2 today, using the code DEAL.
FREE OPRAH BOOK
The World According to Oprah
- this unauthorized biography is FREE if you get the Kindle version. Not sure how long this will last. I read an excerpt online - juicy stuff.Speaking of Oprah, get the O magazine for half off ($9) on Amazon - that's a good deal.
PEET'S
$1 off Peet's today - excluding juice/bottled drinks.
CARTOON ART MUSEUM
Cartoon Art Museum - get a 2 hour drawing class for up to 20 people (or you can use it for private/semi-private lessons) for $100. How fun would this be for a birthday party (age 8 and over)? Get it today on Groupon.
If you're new to Groupon, get the deal here.
If you're already a Groupon user, get the deal here.
FAMILYFUN MAGAZINE
$5 a one year subscription to FamilyFun, or $10 for two years. Great magazine which I get (and write for). Get it at LivingSocial.
RESTAURANT.COM
Get $25 restaurant.com certificate for $2 today, using the code DEAL.
Sunday, June 12, 2011
Father's Day Activities in the San Francisco Bay Area 2011
Looking for things to do in the San Francisco Bay Area this Father's Day? Here's a list:
Roaring Camp - Steam trains from the forest to the Santa Cruz beach (or around the mountains), live country music, BBQ, handcar races and hiking.
Michael's Arts & Crafts has a number of father's day craft activities:
Tuesday, June 14 from 6-8 pm.. Decorate a mug (free with mug purchase)
Friday, June 17 from 6-8 p.m. Make a father's day card (free)
Saturday, June 18 from 10-noon. Make a key chain (free)
Dad gets a free yogurt at TCBY on Father's Day.
Arrrgghhhh! Talk like a pirate at the Northern California Pirate Festival in Vallejo next Saturday and Sunday.
Stern Grove opens for the season this Sunday, on Father's Day. You'll hear Sharon Jones and the Dap-Kings (classic R&B). It starts at 2:00, but of course you'll need to get there early to get space on the lawn!
Free National Park Entrance Day. Okay, so it's not on Father's Day, but it's a few days later on the first day of summer, June 21.
San Mateo County Fair - Father's Day is the last day! Here's the schedule.
Visit a museum.
-California Academy of Sciences - if you live in these zip codes, get in free Friday through Sunday: 94102, 94103, 94104, 94105, 94107, 94111, 94124, 94130, 94158. Family crafts for kids 4-8.
-Family Sunday at SFMOMA 11-3 with a family tour at 1:00 - kids get in free.
-Drop-in art at the Jewish Contemporary Museum from 1-3.
Picklewater Free Circus - performance 2-4 at Union Square.
USS Hornet - Living Ship Day on Father's Day
Chabot Space Center - BBQ and Solar Car Challenge
North Beach Festival - Saturday and Sunday from 10-6
Hidden Villa - Cheese Class and Banana Slug Band. Two separate events. One for adults, one for families. Both sound fabulous.
Juneteenth Festival in SF- parade, car show, basketball tournament, health fair - June 18-19
Lots more events. Check the list at SFKids.org, and Savvy Cities,
Roaring Camp - Steam trains from the forest to the Santa Cruz beach (or around the mountains), live country music, BBQ, handcar races and hiking.
Michael's Arts & Crafts has a number of father's day craft activities:
Tuesday, June 14 from 6-8 pm.. Decorate a mug (free with mug purchase)
Friday, June 17 from 6-8 p.m. Make a father's day card (free)
Saturday, June 18 from 10-noon. Make a key chain (free)
Dad gets a free yogurt at TCBY on Father's Day.
Arrrgghhhh! Talk like a pirate at the Northern California Pirate Festival in Vallejo next Saturday and Sunday.
Stern Grove opens for the season this Sunday, on Father's Day. You'll hear Sharon Jones and the Dap-Kings (classic R&B). It starts at 2:00, but of course you'll need to get there early to get space on the lawn!
Free National Park Entrance Day. Okay, so it's not on Father's Day, but it's a few days later on the first day of summer, June 21.
San Mateo County Fair - Father's Day is the last day! Here's the schedule.
Visit a museum.
-California Academy of Sciences - if you live in these zip codes, get in free Friday through Sunday: 94102, 94103, 94104, 94105, 94107, 94111, 94124, 94130, 94158. Family crafts for kids 4-8.
-Family Sunday at SFMOMA 11-3 with a family tour at 1:00 - kids get in free.
-Drop-in art at the Jewish Contemporary Museum from 1-3.
Picklewater Free Circus - performance 2-4 at Union Square.
USS Hornet - Living Ship Day on Father's Day
Chabot Space Center - BBQ and Solar Car Challenge
North Beach Festival - Saturday and Sunday from 10-6
Hidden Villa - Cheese Class and Banana Slug Band. Two separate events. One for adults, one for families. Both sound fabulous.
Juneteenth Festival in SF- parade, car show, basketball tournament, health fair - June 18-19
Lots more events. Check the list at SFKids.org, and Savvy Cities,
Peet's Coffee - $1 off Monday
Peet's Coffee is offering $1 off beverages on Monday, June 13 (except juice/bottled beverages) at most locations. For the coupon, click here.
Saturday, June 11, 2011
Our new favorite books
We've been reading a lot at home lately. Our new favorite author is Roald Dahl
. Sure, he was a favorite in my youth for James and the Giant Peach
and Charlie and the Chocolate Factory.
And I recently saw the movie Matilda
, an oldie that I can't believe I hadn't seen before (comes from the book Matilda
). The movie features Danny Devito and Rhea Perlman, and was delightful. We thoroughly enjoyed George's Marvelous Medicine
, where a boy makes his own concoction for his evil grandmother, from all kinds of things found in the house, garage and barn.
But Dahl has written a bunch of other books that we're plowing through. My favorite so far was Danny the Champion of the World
. There's just the right amount of wickedness and fun with a boy living with his dad in a little trailer behind an auto shop. Dad's love of catching pheasants illegally leads to trouble. I love that Dahl's characters are not black and white, and even the heroes have vulnerabilties and quirks. Since we finished that, I'm reading BFG 
to my son now - Big Friendly Giant. The giant's voice is so much fun to read aloud. We are only a few chapters in.
After visiting our school's used book sale, we now look forward to Fantastic Mr. Fox
(we haven't seen the movie yet) and The Witches
.
Our other favorite author is Louis Sachar
. I was introduced to him when my mother-in-law send Sideways Stories from the Wayside School.
The stories are original and funny. And we loved loved loved Holes
, which was also made into a movie (on our list). It's about a middle-school age boy who gets sent to a work camp for a crime he didn't commit. And a mystery follows.
As a reminder, there are a few summer reading programs out there.
Barnes & Noble Summer Reading Program - Your kids can join Barnes & Noble summer reading program, and read 8 books and get one free.
Scholastic Summer Challenge - encourage the kids to read and win prizes through the
Scholastic Summer Challenge.
Check with your library for other free summer reading challenges
. Sure, he was a favorite in my youth for James and the Giant Peach and Charlie and the Chocolate Factory. And I recently saw the movie Matilda, an oldie that I can't believe I hadn't seen before (comes from the book Matilda). The movie features Danny Devito and Rhea Perlman, and was delightful. We thoroughly enjoyed George's Marvelous Medicine, where a boy makes his own concoction for his evil grandmother, from all kinds of things found in the house, garage and barn.But Dahl has written a bunch of other books that we're plowing through. My favorite so far was Danny the Champion of the World
. There's just the right amount of wickedness and fun with a boy living with his dad in a little trailer behind an auto shop. Dad's love of catching pheasants illegally leads to trouble. I love that Dahl's characters are not black and white, and even the heroes have vulnerabilties and quirks. Since we finished that, I'm reading BFG to my son now - Big Friendly Giant. The giant's voice is so much fun to read aloud. We are only a few chapters in.After visiting our school's used book sale, we now look forward to Fantastic Mr. Fox
(we haven't seen the movie yet) and The Witches.Our other favorite author is Louis Sachar
. I was introduced to him when my mother-in-law send Sideways Stories from the Wayside School. The stories are original and funny. And we loved loved loved Holes, which was also made into a movie (on our list). It's about a middle-school age boy who gets sent to a work camp for a crime he didn't commit. And a mystery follows.As a reminder, there are a few summer reading programs out there.
Barnes & Noble Summer Reading Program - Your kids can join Barnes & Noble summer reading program, and read 8 books and get one free.
Scholastic Summer Challenge - encourage the kids to read and win prizes through the
Scholastic Summer Challenge.
Check with your library for other free summer reading challenges
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