Delicious and oh what a SWEET day Friday June 1 will be !

HotFlashFinds:  KrispyKreme  is Giving Away One FREE Treat on National Doughnut Day.

Stop in to KrispyKreme on June 1 for a FREE  delicious doughnut of your choice.   Please go to http://KrispyKreme.com/ for store locations and www.CelebrateKrispyKreme.com  regarding their 75th Anniversary celebration.

  

                                                                      

A Sweet Idea for Summer Entertaining

HONEY as an Hors D'Oeuvres

Raw Orange Blossom Honeycomb Square from Savannah Bee Company.
Served for company December 2011.
www.savanahbee.com and look for store locator in your geographical area.

HotFlashFinds:  Honey is a sweet food made by bees using nectar from flowers.  The variety produced by honey bees is the most commonly referred to and is the type of honey collected by beekeepers and consumed by humans.

The good news is that honey provides a concentrated dose of antioxidants.

Darker honeys have more nutrients and are more flavorful.  In baked goods,  Heidi Swanson, author of Super Natural Cooking, recommends substituting 1/2 cup honey for every cup of sugar, reducing the liquid in the recipe by 1/4 cup, and increasing the baking soda by 1/4 teaspoon.  Note: When baking with honey lower the oven temperature by 25 degrees to avoid overbrowning.

One of my new go to hors d'oeuvres is the all-natural 11oz  Raw Orange Blossom Honeycomb square from the Savannah Bee Company.  It is great paired with cheeses, crackers, nuts, fruit, and edible flowers.  And, any unused portion can be stored in the original box at room temperature for up to one year.

Wishing everyone a Happy and Relaxing Memorial Day Weekend.

Information obtained from Wikipedia and The Oprah Magazine April 2012

Finds and Activities for the Weekend and the Week Ahead

The Weekend is Finally Here!

HotFlashFinds:  It looks like we will get a preview of summer this weekend.  Below are some finds and activities for you to enjoy.  Wishing you all an enjoyable weekend and week ahead.

Olive Garden is offering a free appetizer or dessert at Olive Garden when you buy two dinner entrees and present this coupon.

For all of our active duty members of the military starting May 19, Armed Forces Day: you and your dependents can get a free annual pass offering free entrance to all 397 national parks.

Need Tires?  Buy four selected Firestone tires at Mr. Tire, and get a $70 Firestone gas prepaid Mastercard. Expires July 8.

Harris Teeter 20% off  cases of wine May 17 -May 20, 2012.  If you are an e-VIC member you can get 20% off specialty cheese purchases.  This week Harris Teeter will triple manufacturers coupons up to .99 face value. www.harristeeter.com.

A haircut at Supercuts will get you a $10 Live Nation concert cash card free. You can use it buy concert tickets or merchandise like T-shirts and posters. Start the ball rolling by printing this voucher and bringing it to Supercuts when you get your next cut.

P & G beauty products April 20 - June 5, 2012:  Spend $50 on participating Proctor and Gamble beauty products (brands like Olay, Clairol and Safeguard) and get a $10 rebate through the mail.

Chipotle: free burito, bowl, order of tacos or salad: Buy $30 worth of gift cards from Chipotle and keep your receipt. Bring that receipt back on your next visit before June 30 and they'll give you a free burrito, bowl, order of tacos or salad.

Marriot: Earn up to three free nights through a Marriott Rewards summer bonus promotion. Register for Marriott Rewards, stay twice at any participating hotel between June 1 and August 31, and you'll earn one free night after every second paid stay.

Free Slurpee time at 7-Eleven May 23:  11 a.m. and 7 p.m. May 23 to celebrate SlurpFREE Day. Every customer gets a free 7.11 ounce Slurpee while supplies last.

Anthropolgie's semi-annual clearance sale is now going on online and in stores .www.anthropogie.com.

Chico's : buy one get one 50% off jewelry and pants www.chico's.com.  for details.  

The Limited is offering 30% off all dresses, pants, ankles, crops, skirts and jackets and up to 50% off jewelry online at www.thelimited.com.

Activities:

May 19 & 20 :   Andrews Air force Base's Joint Service Open House & Air Show. Annual air show this weekend, featuring the U.S. Navy Blue Angels and the U.S. Army Golden Knights. Admission is free. Free shuttle buses will take you to the show from the Fed Ex Field parking lots, and the Branch Avenue Metro station.

May 20 noon - 5 p.m. : Take a trip around the world, without getting on a plane. The Maryland National Capital Park and Planning Commission's Festival of Nations  at the Tucker Road Athletic Complex in Fort Washington. There will be performances, games, food tastes, vendor areas and an interactive children's area.

DC Yoga Week is May 13-20 and participating studios are offering free classes. You can also join Yoga on the Mall, 1:30-4:30 p.m.  May 19. It's a free collective practice expected to draw hundreds of yoga enthusiasts of all skill levels to the Sylvan stage near the Washington Monument.

Gaithersburg Book Festival May 19 Free.  Tom Angleberger, Buzz Bissinger, "30 Rock's" Judah Friedlander, Jenny Lawon ( a.k.a, the Bloggess) & Stewart O'Nan.  A wide array of authors will discuss and sign their books.  Also featured are a Children's Village, coffeehouse entertainment & writing workshops. Gaithersburg City Hall, 31 S. Summit Ave. Gaithersburg, MD. www.gaithersburgbookfestival.org.

Mystics Season Opener May 19.  Show your D.C. pride at the season opener against the Chicago Sky.  It marks the team's 15th year in Washington.  7p.m. Verizon Center. www.verizoncenter.

Gem & Jewelry Show inc. May 18-20, 2012 Dulles Expo Center (South Hall) Chantilly, Va.  Sat. 10am-6pm,Sun 11am-5pm.  Baubles, stones, gems & other gift items.

Strawberries are ripe for the picking.  Yum!   Berry season has arrived early.  Find a patch for a taste of sweet, local strawberries.  Most farms are charging around $2 per pound.  Butler's Orchard,  Germantown, www.butlersorchard.com, Mackintosh Fruit Farm, Berryville, Va. www.mackintoshfruitfarm.com.

Sunday, May 20 : Northern VA Fine Arts Festival: Reston Town Cneter is host to the work of  200 plus contemporary artists, plus music, performance art and hands-on children's projects.  10am-4pm 11900 Market St., Reston. www.northernvirginiafineartsfestival.org.

some info obtained from wtop.com and The Washington Post newspaper.

National Bike To Work Day Today

Today is Bike to Work Day

Locally,  there are 58 pit stops in D.C., Maryland and Virginia where bicyclists can stop and grab free refreshments www.biketoworkmetrodcorg. and other free goodies.  Check out the interactive map for details by location. 

HotFlashFinds:  It looks like today is going to be a beautiful day.  It is very important to try and incorporate exercise into our daily lives.  If you are unable to bike to work today, try to take a bike ride after work.  Or, try to take a walk, go to the gym, or find another way to get some movement into your life.
Also,  for those of you who are environmentally conscious, this is  great way to have a commuting alternative.

Addendum:  Loyal reader and friend Lennie sent me an e-mail about Bike to Work Day.  Below is some interesting information about the evolution of this day.  Also,  below is a link to http://www.ohiobike.org/kids-cyclng-ed.html.

National Bike to Work Day:

Today is National Bike to Work Day! In 1956, the Cycle Trade Association of America announced the first ever Bike Month. The purpose of this occasion was to promote bicycle sales. Today, National Bike Month, Bike Week, and Bike to Work Day have a much broader focus. These events encourage safe bicycling practices and promote cycling as a legitimate commuting alternative.
Join thousands of other Americans and participate in Bike to Work Day today. Whether you are environmentally conscious or just love the exercise, biking to work is a great way to avoid the commuter traffic and stay in shape! Happy cycling!

 " A Bike is not a toy, it is a child's first vehicle" and this one, " Drive your bike" ..... This is where it all begins! We can all stand to learn something here.

 

Thank-you Lennie for this great informative information.

 

Readers, please feel free to contact HotFlashFinds@gmail.com.  I welcome your comments and contributions to this blog. 

 

some of the above info obtained from wtop.com                                                                     

HAPPY MOTHER'S DAY TO ALL

Wishing all of my friends, family, and loyal readers a very Happy Mother's Day !

HotFlashFinds:  Motherhood is probably the hardest job in the whole wide world.  And, it sure doesn't come with a user manuel.   But it sure does come with lots of hugs, kisses, joys and happiness.  And, at times some nail biting, worries and concerns.

I know that I've made some mistakes along the way.  I sure hope that my girls will forgive me.  But, I do hope that they know that the love and the support that I have for them is endless.  And , I sure hope that they know how very proud of them I am as I watch them grow into beautiful and successful young adults.

My daughters in the iris gardens helping me celebrate Mother's Day 2012.

Jack Pot Week

Taking a Break

UL:  Beautiful Ponte Vedra Beach.  UR: Fun time walking the beach with my husband.  LL: Clusters of shells on the beach. LR:  Birds on the sand beds by the ocean where we hunt for sharks teeth.

Last week I was lucky to be able to take a break from it all.  My husband and I went to Florida to pick up our college sophomore from school.  While waiting for her to finish her final exam, I got to enjoy beautiful, hot, sunny days walking the beach and hunting for shark's teeth , sea glass and shells.  I got to spend some fun time with my husband and got to indulge in some great seafood, key lime pie, and mini chocolate heath bar blizzards.  And, I got to enjoy some bonding time with my daughter during our 13 hour car ride back home.

HotFlashFinds:  The result of this jack pot week is that I feel relaxed, clearer and have such wonderful memories.

Tomorrow is my return back to work and back to my daily grind.

I am going to try my best to try and focus on my jack pot week if I should begin to feel overwhelmed or in need of an escape.



It's The Weekend and Time To Enjoy some Finds, Activities, and Deals

HotFlashFinds:  Cinco De  Mayo, The Kenntucky Derby, Mother's Day, Memorial Day and so much more. May is here!  Please find some freebies, some deals and lots of activities to enjoy this weekend and throughout the week .

Freebies:

May 4 & May 5: California Tortilla has a Cuatro and Cinco de Mayo deal. Make any purchase at California Tortilla today or tomorrow and you'll get a coupon good for a free taco that you can redeem between May 6 and 15.

May 5: The new Clark + Kensington Paint and Primer is billed as a real time saver, and you can get a free quart of it at your local Ace Hardware. Free paint is available while supplies last. Each store has an average of 40 quarts to give away.

May 5: Cinco De Moe's at Moe's Southwest Grill locations. The first 100 people in line at 11 a.m. at each restaurant get a free T-shirt. Also look for specials that vary by store.

Free at Arby's:  small drink and a free small curly fry when you buy any Market Fresh sandwich or wrap and show this coupon.

Earn up to three free nights through a Marriott Rewards summer bonus promotion. Register for Marriott Rewards, stay twice at any participating hotel between June 1 and August 31, and you'll earn one free night after every second paid stay.

Shutterfly wants to give you a free photo card. Enter code CARD4U to get a free 5 x 7 greeting card, or 5 x 5 or 5 x 7 stationery card. www.shutterfly.com.

Free golf lessons: The PGA and LPGA are offering free 10-minute golf lessons in May. Just plug your zip code into this page to find a golf pro near you who's taking part.

Free game ticket or special seat upgrade for Nats: The Washington Nationals will give you a free game ticket or a special seat upgrade for your birthday. And no, your birthday does not have to fall during the season to take advantage. Get all the details here.

Activities:

May 4, & 5: 10a.m.-6p.m and 10a.m. -5p.m.   Flower Mart:  Free:  The National Cathedral annual festival of all things family and flowers.  A restored carousel, moon bounce, mini Ferris wheel and more. Flowers, art, gifts and food for sale. This year's Flower Mart celebrates Jamaica's culture and botany.  Washington National Cathedral, 3103 Wisconsin Ave.NW.  202-537-3185.

May 5:  Running of the Chihuahuas for Cinco De Mayo  Free: Calling all doggie lovers , 11am-2pm: Races for Chihuahuas. There will be races and awards for best costume, best trick, best owner lookalike & funniest pair. Live music, local food, a doggie treat station,& beer garden available for dogs and dog lovers. 7th St. Landing Park &Cantina Marina. SW Waterfront,7th Water St. SW. www.ontaponline.com/race.

May 5: Curbside Cookoff: noon-9p.m.  Trucko De Mayo, Food Truck Heaven:  Free Admission:  There will be 2 bars & live music. You will have to pay for those lobster rolls, ice cream treats and more than 40 food trucks serving up their specialties. RFK Stadium, Lot 3, 2400 E. Capitol St. SE. www.dcfoodtrucks.org.  Free parking.

May 5 & May 6  want to see a live hawk up close? Falconry and bird of prey expert Mike Dupuy is making several free weekend appearances at the four Wild Bird Center stores in the region. He'll be in Alexandria at noon on May 5, Bethesda at 3 p.m. May 5, Woodbridge at noon May 6 and Oakton at 3 p.m. May 6.

May 5  10am-4pm Embassies are open to visitors :Travel the world for free by taking part in the Around the World Embassy Tour,  More than 40 embassies are opening their doors to visitors. You'll be invited to sample food, art dance and music. A free shuttle service will provide rides on three separate loops to get you to and from.

May 5  11am-3pm at The National Zoo: Celebrate the fastest land animal in the world during Cheetah Day . Take your picture with a life-size plush or cardboard cutout cheetah, get a temporary tattoo and learn through demonstrations. Just head to the Cheetah Conservation Station.

May 5 10am-5pm is Space day  and it's being held at both locations of the Smithsonian's National Air and Space Museum. There will be astronauts at both the main museum building in D.C. and at the Udvar-Hazy Center in Chantilly. Look for lots of activities aimed at kids of all ages who are interested in space exploration. 

May 6-Aug. 12 Joan Miro: "The Ladder of Escape " Free:  Joan Miro , Catalan painter, was one of the most influential surrealists of the 20th century.  A few of Miro's paintings are on display at the National Gallery and on Sunday , a traveling exhibition of around 120 of his works arrives at the gallery. National Gallery of Art, E. Builidng. www.nga.gov.

May 5-May 6  9am-6pm, 11am-5pm,  DC Big Flea Market: Dulles Expo Center, Chantilly , VA.  A fun treasure hunt for unique antiques and collectibles for home & office. Admission $8.  www.damorepromtios.com.

Deals: 

May 4-May 13 Starbucks Frappuccino Happy Hour:  3-5 p.m. Half-Price Frappuccino blended beverages at participating Starbucks stores.

Macy's: extra 20% off: great gifts and 2-day specials plus free shipping.  Use promo code: MOM. www.macy's.com.   Check out the Albereta Ferretti line for impulse only Macy's. Limited -edition collection.  Albereta Ferretti is known for her feminine line and Italian refinement.

Two year Magazine subscription for $7 through Living Social.  Better Homes & Gardens, Everyday with Rachael Ray, Fitness, and more. http://www.livingsocial.com/cities/1938/deals/325064-two-year-magazine-subscription.

ProFlowers.com $30 to spend on fresh flowers.  Pay $ 15.  Great way to send beautiful flowers for Mother's Day, birthdays or other occasions. http://www.livingsocial.com/cities/1938-us-nationwide. 

Some information obtained from WTOP and The Washington Post newspaper.

Finds and Activities

HotFlashFinds:  It's officially the weekend.  Below are some finds and some activities.  Wishing everyone a nice weekend.  Happy Earth Day on Sunday.

Olive Garden has two freebie offers running right now. Get a free appetizer or dessert when you buy two dinner entrees, or get a free kid's meal when you buy an adult entrée on Take Our Daughters And Sons To Work Day, April 26. Get the coupons here.

Walgreens has a photo deal.  Buy 25 prints, get another 25 free with coupon code B25G25PIC through April 21.

Free nail polish when you purchase any nail polish at Zoya.com and enter promo code "lucky2" when you check out. You'll get a free bottle of polish in a pretty lavender-grey color called Megan. Offer valid through June 4 or while supplies last.

Create a reusable grocery tote bag  in time for Earth Day that includes your own images and text. The bag is free with coupon code FREEBAG, all you'll pay is $4.99 shipping.

The Space Shuttle Discovery and Family Weekend on April 21 and April 22  at the National Air and Space Museum's Udvar-Hazy Center in Chantilly. Special exhibits, programs and activities will be going on to celebrate the arrival of Space Shuttle Discovery for permanent display. Museum admission is free. Parking is $15, but here's a tip - parking is always free after 4 p.m.

Lantern-Making  Family Day April 21 at The Yards Park as part of the National Cherry Blossom Festival. There will be free lantern-making workshops, a moon bounce, and performances. Food vendors will be there too. The event is free and runs from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.

Smithsonian Craft Show 4/19- 4/22.  National Building Museum, Washington , DC. Produced by the Smitsonian Women's Committee to support education, outreach and research at the Smithsonian Institution. www.smithsoniancraftshow.org.

Nicholas Sparks' Fans:  "The Lucky One," stars Zac Efron &Taylor Schilling out in theaters now.

Wegman's Shoppers bring plastic bags from home to your local Wegman's for recycling from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. April 21 and you'll get a coupon for a free reusable bag. Wegman's is also holding an Organic Festival in stores April 20, April 22 and April 28 where you'll be able to sample products and pick up $6 in organic coupons.

Crabtree & Evelyn Stores are offering on  April 21 or April 22 a free beauty treatment for your hands. It's called the "Ultimate Pampering Event.

Barnes&Noble is offering an extra 15% off one item in-stores or online (NOOK devices&NOOK books excluded).  Ends 4/22/12. ONLINE Enter coupon code JUG6GWS25N1QX at checkout. In-store print coupon www.barnes&noble.com.

L.L.Bean is offering a free $10 gift card with your purchase of $50 or more through 4/22/12. With dozens of new spring arrivals and free shipping, it's a great reason to shop now.  Online or in stores.  www.llbean.com

Pottery Barn Last Chance! Save 15% on your entire order. SHOP NOW.  Offer expires 4/20/12.  www.potterybarn.com.

 Loft / Ann Taylor is offering 40% off your entire purchase in-store and online for their Friends and Family sale.  Ends 4/22/12.  www.Loft.com. www.anntaylor.com.

Some information obtained from WTOP  and The Washington Post newspaper.

LOVE, MARRIAGE & IKEA ?

HotFlashFinds:  The other day I was listening to WTOP, a local news radio station.   I heard the sweetest love story about a couple who went to IKEA for some Sweedish meatballs and 2 years later got married and the ceremony and reception were held at IKEA.   IKEA is one of  my HotFlashFinds favorite places to shop for furniture,  plants,  home decor items, kitchen items, puppets for work, delicious chocolate and so much more.  Who'd have thought that now you can even get married there?

Married with meatballs: An IKEA love story

Wednesday - 4/18/2012, 6:21am ET

Julie Rodgers and Willie Pittman just after being pronounced husband and wife inside IKEA in College Park. (WTOP/Michelle Basch)

• Gallery: (5 images)

  

Michelle Basch, wtop.com

COLLEGE PARK, Md. - A first-of-its-kind wedding in the area left some onlookers wondering what the heck was going on.

It was a Tuesday night ceremony, held inside the IKEA store in College Park.

In 2010, 30 years after they last saw each other in grade school, Julie Rodgers and Willie Pittman reconnected through a social website and went on a date at the College Park store.

They ate Swedish meatballs, explored the store's "long natural path" and played on furniture.

"As we're leaving, we get yogurt cones and we're on the way to the parking lot when it hits me," Rodgers remembers. "I turned to him and said, 'This is one of the best dates I've ever had,' to which he said, 'This is a date?'"

Exactly two years later, they returned to IKEA to exchange vows and become husband and wife.

Each has been married before, and Rodgers has four children.

Initially, all Rodgers wanted to do was share some of the store's meatballs and take photos with the man she calls "Bear."

But when she contacted IKEA and told them her love-over-meatballs story, the company offered to give them the space to hold their wedding for no charge.

The store also provided chairs and linens for the event, and, of course, meatballs and other food for the reception.

IKEA's Sharon Black says it's the first wedding ever held inside the College Park store, and she understands the publicity may spark more requests.

"We'll entertain them all, but we'll see where it goes from here. We're not really in the wedding business," Black says with a laugh.

Customers who spotted the wedding party in the upstairs restaurant had mixed reactions.

"This is the craziest thing I've ever seen. Who wants to get married in IKEA?" one woman wondered.

"It's something they're going to remember for a while. It's like, 'Hey, we got married at IKEA,' so it's kind of cool," another man said.

One thing has changed for the couple in the last two years: Both have become vegetarians. Rodgers says that won't stop them from celebrating their special day in the future.

"We're going to have an anniversary meatball. It may only be one or two, but it will be a commemorative meatball," she says.

                                                                    
    

TAX RELIEF

HotFlashFinds:  Happy Weekend.  I thought that I'd share some tax relief finds for you all to enjoy.  Remember, taxes are due April 17.

Panda Express: Get a free order of Panda Express' new Shanghai Angus Steak on Tuesday, April 17 with this coupon. No purchase necessary while supplies last.

Maggie Moo's  has new yogurt flavors and hopes you'll stop by for a free scoop at participating locations between 4 and 7 p.m. on Tax Day, April 17. They're calling it a "Yo-bate Giveaway." New flavors include lemon creme, birthday cake and forest berry. www.maggiemoos.com.

Cinnabon: Stop by a participating Cinnabon locations between 6 p.m. and 8 p.m. on April 17 to get two free Bites (bite-sized cinnamon rolls) while supplies last. Offer not valid at airports or travel plazas.

P.F. Chang's:  15% off on April 17 for Tax Relief on all dine-in and take out orders.  Happy Hour and P. F. Chang's for Two are excluded .  www.pfchangs.com.

Dale&Thomas Popcorn:  15% Sitewide through 4/15 with promo code: TAX15.  Now is an opportunity to try some of their delicious gourmet popcorn. www.daleandthomas.com.

Seattle's Best Coffee:  Visit one of their stores on 4/17 for a free small brewed coffee. Please go to their website for specific details: www.seattle'sbestcoffee.com.

Hydro Massage:  A HydroMassage is a very special water bed that uses jets to move the water around to give you a full-body massage with your clothes on. Because it's tax time, you can try a HydroMassage free at participating locations April 16 to April 20. Visit the HydroMassage website for location information.

Banana Republic: 10%-40% off full-priced items (excludes new arrivals) 4/13-4/17 in stores & online.  Free shipping on any order over $50 all the time. www.bananarepublic.com.

I will continue to add any tax relief finds that I come across to the above list.  Please check back.

some items found from wtop.com.

Man's Best Friend

The purpose of a dog!     
(from a 6-year-old).

Being a veterinarian, I had been called to examine a ten-year-old Irish Wolfhound named Belker. The dog's owners, Ron, his wife Lisa, and their little boy Shane, were all very attached to Belker, and they were hoping for a miracle.

I examined Belker and found he was dying of cancer. I told the family we couldn't do anything for Belker, and offered to perform the euthanasia procedure for the old dog in their home.

As we made arrangements, Ron and Lisa told me they thought it would be good for six-year-old Shane to observe the procedure. They felt as though Shane might learn something from the experience.

The next day, I felt the familiar catch in my throat as Belker 's family surrounded him. Shane seemed so calm, petting the old dog for the last time, that I wondered if he understood what was going on. Within a few minutes, Belker slipped peacefully away.

The little boy seemed to accept Belker's transition without any difficulty or confusion. We sat together for a while after Belker's Death, wondering aloud about the sad fact that animal lives are shorter than human lives.
Shane, who had been listening quietly, piped up, ''I know why.''

Startled, we all turned to him. What came out of his mouth next stunned me. I'd never heard a more comforting explanation. It has changed the way I try and live.

He said,''People are born so that they can learn how to live a good life -- like loving everybody all the time and being nice, right?'' The Six-year-old continued,
''Well, dogs already know how to do that, so they don't have to stay as long.''

Live simply.

Love generously.

Care deeply.

Speak kindly.

Remember, if a dog was the teacher you would learn things like:

When loved ones come home, always run to greet them.

Never pass up the opportunity to go for a joyride.

Allow the experience of fresh air and the wind in your face to be pure Ecstasy.

Take naps.

Stretch before rising.

Run, romp, and play daily.

Thrive on attention and let people touch you.

Avoid biting when a simple growl will do.

On warm days, stop to lie on your back on the grass.

On hot days, drink lots of water and lie under a shady tree.

When you're happy, dance around and wag your entire body.

Delight in the simple joy of a long walk.

Be loyal.

Never pretend to be something you're not.

If what you want lies buried, dig until you find it.

When someone is having a bad day, be silent, sit close by, and nuzzle them gently.


-- There comes a time in life, when you walk away from all the drama
and people who create it. You surround yourself with people who
make you laugh, forget the bad, and focus on the good. So, love
the people who treat you right. Think good thoughts for the ones
who don't. Life is too short to be anything but happy. Falling down
is part of LIFE...Getting back up is LIVING...


Have a great life.

 

 

HotFlashFinds:  A friend sent me this e-mail a few weeks ago.  I really like the message.  In fact,  it brought tears to my eyes as I read this e-mail.  This message has stayed with me for the past few weeks.  I wanted to share this with all of you.

 

My family lost our special dog last summer.  He really taught me some beautiful life lessons.  These lessons are to be happy, and to love unconditionally.  Thank -you dear Bogie.

 

Bogart enjoying a car ride with our family

 

Removal of the Sticky Part of an Adhesive Label

Removal of the sticky part of an adhesive label from plastic and glass items                 

                

HotFlashFinds: Would you like to remove the sticky adhesive label from a great find bargain item or would you like try and be ecological and reuse a glass or plastic item?

If yes, peel as much of the paper off  as you can, and then use a wet dryer sheet (with fabric softener in it) to rub away the adhesive.  Wash with dish soap.  Works well for those items that you don't want scratched up.

info found in Washington Post hint to Heloise.
                                                                            

INSPIRATIONS

                                     Inspirations of the Week

1. 89 year young gentleman participated in 10 mile Cherry Blossom Race

2. Chrisklemens Inspirations found on Pinterest

HotFlashFinds:  1.  I met this 89 year young gentleman as I nervously waited at the start line for the Cherry Blossom Race to begin in DC.   He immediately quelled my jitters.   And, I could barely keep up with his pace as we started out in the race.

I found this quote by George Eliot and like what it says: " It is never too late to be what you might have been."

2.  The second picture is a quote found on a poster.   Personally, I find that when I try and push myself past my comfort zone, the the payoff is huge.

IKAT Seems To Be Everywhere This Season

Gretchen Jones Fall 2012 Pastel Ikat Prints Lucky Magazine

HotFlashFinds:  Do you know what IKAT is?  Pronounced ee-kat it is a labor intensive dyeing technique that has the pattern tied and dyed in the yarn before the fabric is woven.   True ikat is not a print but a process where every inch of fabric has been created by the hand and eye of the weaver.  Each motif is individually hand-wrappped therefore no two motifs are exactly alike.

The ikat technique started hundreds of years ago in NE Asia then went to India, Malaysia, Indonesia, Africa and then to Central and South America.

Below are some examples of Ikat.  You can find this form of textile decoration in clothes, accessories, pillows, wall hangings, sheets , sofas and chairs.  Materials used include cotton, silk, wool and others.

Ikat Accent Pillow ebay.com

Cotton Ikat Tunic Dress Gretchen Scott

Ikat Sofa West Elm

Information obtained from Wikipedia and CalicoCorners

HotFlashFInds For The Weekend and The Following Week

It's the start of Spring Break for many.  Enjoy your time off or at least your weekend off with some HotFlashFinds below.

Thourh April 13 at Carrabba's: Free appetizer or dessert when you buy an entrée with this coupon. There are two other Carrabba's coupons on the same page.

Mar.31-Apr.2 at P.F. Chang's: 20% off your entire online takeout order because of of the Final Games of the Basketball Tournament   Click Here to order.

Through Apr.8 at Einstein Bros Bagels: Save 25% off your entire order with this coupon Click Here to obtain coupon.

Mon.-Fri. weekly at Ruth's Chris Steak House: Sizzle, Swizzle and Swirl Happy Hour bar side for $7. Some of items featured include: New England Lobster Roll with Fries,  Seared Ahi Tuna, and Tenderloin Skewers over spring greens along with hand-crafted cocktails, premium wines and selected beers.  www.ruthschris.com/menu/happyhour7.

Through Mar. 31 at Michael's, feeling crafty?  50% off any one regular priced item. www.michael's.com  and print weekly ad coupon.

Free custom placemat and custom 11- ounce ceramic mug from Inkgarden, a Beltsville-based company that offers high quality but low cost customizable products.  Currently offering both a custom placemat and a custom 11-ounce ceramic mug free. All you pay is shipping.

A free sample of gud from Burt's Bees body lotion is yours when you like their Facebook page. Click on the offer in the lower left of this page.

Sat. Mar. 31 10a.m.-7p.m-Sun. Apr.1, 1-5p.m. Hillwood Estate, Museum & Gardens : Faberge Egg Family Festival. Celebrate spring's arrival Russian style with Russian folk music, storytelling, &workshops to decorate your own Faberge-inspired egg, and more. HillwoodMuseum.org

Sat. Mar. 31 -The National Gallery of Art has a free film program for children and teens. Seating is first come, first served. Ssee "My Neighbor Totoro", an English-language version of a Japanese film for kids age 6 and up. Presented in honor of the National Cherry Blossom Festival.

Sat. Mar. 31 from10:30a.m.-4:30p.m. Blossom Kite Festival at Washington Monument. Bring a kite or make one at an activity station (while supplies last) or just watch the competitions.  www.nationalcherryblossomfestival.org.  Free.

Kids between the ages of 3 and 5 who are Virginia residents can get a free Sesame Street Forest of Fun Preschool Pass at Busch Gardens Williamsburg, good for unlimited admission through Oct. 28. 

Some items found at WTOP and from The Washington Post Newspaper.

IN THE MOOD TO SHOP FOR SOME SPRING CLOTHING AND ACCESSORIES THIS WEEK?

HotFlashFinds: I couldn't resist sharing some of the clothing and shoe sales that I found available for this week.  I figure with Easter and Passover coming in the next couple of weeks it may be fun to splurge on a new outfit or a new accessory.

MIU MIU pumps at Neiman Marcus

1. Receive a $50 Gift Card with your purchase of $350 or more in the Shoe Salon or in Designer Handbags when you shop in stores or online at Neiman Marcus. 3/29-4/1.  www.neimanmarcus.com. For free shipping try code: FSMAR.

2. Receive 20% off almost all regular & sale items at Bloomingdale's Friends & Family Event.  This includes Women, Kids & Home items.(10% electronics). Both online:  Promo Code:FANDF at checkout. 3/26-4/1 www.bloomingdales.com & in stores 3/28-4/1.

3. Receive 40% off  your entire purchase at Ann Taylor. Online only. Promo Code: ENTIRE at checkout. Ends 3/28. www.anntaylor.com.

4. Receive 10%-30% off 1000's of styles and free shipping at LandsEnd online and in stores ends 3/27. www.landsend.com.

5. Receive 20% * off  your entire purchase at CHICO'S online& in stores. Limited time. Enter  promo code 14660 at checkout or use code for in store. Note:  *20% off for Passport members and 15% off if not a member.  Save 10% online if you sign up for their e-mail. Free shipping with purchases of $125 or more. www.chico's.com.  

TIME FOR THE WEEKEND AND SOME FREEBIES, FINDS AND HAPPENINGS

HotFlashFinds:  The start of the weekend is almost here.  Today is a beautiful, warm day in mid-March.  Here are some Deals,  Finds and Activities for the weekend and the following week.  Happy Weekend everyone.

Mar. 15-Apr. 7.  Stadler Nurseries:  located in Frederick & Gaithersburg, MD and Manasas, VA.  With the weather being so warm and the cherry blossoms in full bloom why not plant a Kwazan Cherry Ttree, Thundercloud Plum Tree or Kousa Dogwood Tree?  These trees are 20% off and come with free planting and delivery.  Also, all trees $200 or more come with free planting and delivery.  www.stadlergardencenters.com for full terms and details.

Mar. 23- Mar. 25. Groupon Washington Deal special for Merrifield Garden Centers.  $25 for $50 worth of plants, supplies and landscapping services.  Expires 9/26.  www.groupon.com/deals/merrifield-garden-center.

Through Mar. 25 at all Starbucks. Get a free tall drink buy Tribute Blend coffee or Tribute Blend VIA.

Through Mar.25 at Chili's: free chips and queso when you buy an entrée with this coupon.

If you have an April Birthday and would  like to dine at  Restaurant Eve in Alexandria , VA :   If your birthday is in April, Restaurant Eve in Alexandria has a generous gift for you. You can get one free 5-course Tasting Room meal with the purchase of a second. Just mention this offer when you call to make a reservation. Valid only on Mondays through Thursdays in April.  My husband and I celebrated our 27th Anniversary at this restaurant.  We really enjoyed the food and the ambiance.  Splurge worthy!

Travel? Book by March 31 and travel by June 29. Up to 30 percent off lodging and a free gas card from ResortQuest when you book three nights or more at a villa, cottage or private home in the Charleston, S.C. area. The offer covers Kiawah, Seabrook, Isle of Palms, Wild Dunes and Sullivan's Island.

Mar.24: 10a.m.-4:30p.m.-Mar.25:11a.m.-3:30p.m. Cherry Blossom Festival Family Days. National Building Museum.  2 days of family events and activities include hands-on activities, interactive art demos and performances by the Nen Daiko Taiko drummers, the National Ballet of Japan and pianist Motoki Hirai.  Kids can also meet and take photos with Snoopy, the Lorax and other characters.  www.national cherryblossomfestival.org.

Mar.24: Wolf Trap New Summer Shows go on Sale at 10 A.M.:  Summer 2012 shows on sale. Check out www.wolftrap.org/connect or call 1.877.wolftrap.

In the event of rain this weekend these are the new DVDs out this week : Carnage.. The Girl With the Dragon Tattoo..Hop..The Muppets..The Sitter..TinkerTailor Soldier Spy and on Mar. 27: Alvin and the Chipmunks: Chipwrecked..A Dangerous Method..Extremely Loud and Incredibly Close..In the Land of Blood and Honey.

Information found on wtop.com and from the Washignton Post.

ONE FOR ONE AND SAVE $5 ON A PAIR OF TOMS

Women's Floral Print For Spring

                                            

 

HotFlashFinds:  TOMS Shoes was founded in 2006 by Blake Mycoskie. The TOMS movement now sells women's, men's, and children's shoes.  And, there is a new line of eyewear. There is a One for One, too and with every pair purchased TOMS helps give sight to a person in need.

 

The original classic women's shoe was made of canvas or cotton fabric and the sole was constructed  of rubber.  Now, the shoes come in many fashionable styles including: classic, nautical-striped espadrilles, ballet flats, boots and peep-toe wedges.  Some of the shoes come in Vegan styles.  There is even a wedding collection available.    

 

*******Now through April 1 : Save $5.00 on any pair of  women's, men's or kids shoes.  A very easy way to look good and be fashionable while doing a good deed.  Go to www.TOMS.com and check out the whole line of shoes available. Then, place your order.  Enter the code: Sharetoms.                       

GOOD BYE WINTER AND HELLO SPRING! 3/20/12

 Welcome Spring And All Of Its Beauty    

Cherry Blossoms are now in full bloom around the Tidal Basin in Washington, D.C.

HotFlashFinds:  This is the 100th year celebration of the cherry trees in our nation's capital.  The first two of a total of 3,000 trees were planted on March 27, 1912.  These trees were donated to the US by Japan.  Over the next 8 years the rest of the Yoshino, Akebono and Kwanzan cherry trees were planted around the Tidal Basin and in East Potomac Park. 

A little trivia: Eliza Scidmore is the woman most responsible for bringing the cherry trees to D.C.  And, the first two trees were planted by first lady Helen Taft and the wife of the Japanese ambassador.

With the weather being so mild, try to sneak down into D.C. and enjoy the beauty , fun and joy that cherry blossom season means for the Washington area.

information obtained from the Washington Post newspaper

Bargains,Freebies and Events Happening This Weekend and Throughout the Following Week

HotFlashFinds: Happy Friday everyone.  Below are some finds and activities for you to enjoy.  Wishing everyone a fun filled weekend.  And, Happy St. Patrick's Day to all, tomorrow.

Saturday, Mar.17-Sunday, Mar.18 free french fries when you stop into Burger King.  Pick up a free value size fries. No purchase necessary while supplies last.

Through Saturday, Mar. 17- One 8 X 10 photo enlargement is yours free at Walgreens when you place your order online.

Saturday Evening , Mar. 17: Soberride is offering free cab rides  to residents of D.C. and the counties of Montgomery, Prince George's, Arlington, Fairfax, Prince William and eastern Loudoun. Rides will be available from 6 p.m. Saturday to 6 a.m. Sunday.

Saturday, Mar.17 : At Buca di Beppo restaurant get a free individual serving of Chicken Cannelloni when you buy any Buca small or Buca large pasta, baked pasta or entrée with this coupon.

Saturday, Mar.17- 10a.m.-4 p.m.: Bath and Body Works is holding a "Fresh Picked Party."  During those hours, you'll get a free gift (a $10.50 value) with any home fragrance purchase while supplies last, in stores and online.

Saturday, Mar. 17- St.Patrick's Day Parade: 10a.m.-1p.m. Gaithersburg, MD.  Rio/Washingtonian Center.  Features: bagpipes, Celtic dancers, fire trucks and live performers . Annual procession starts at 10a.m.  www.hssg.org.

Sunday, Mar.18-2p.m.-4p.m. Japanese Tea Party.  U.S. Botanic Garden, SW. The cherry blossom season is here in DC.  You can go with your children to a free Japanese tea party. Children ages 5-10 get a tour of the orchid exhibit and learn about Japanese gardens and tea houses , while sipping on tea. Registration required. www.usbg.gov.

Mimi's Cafe eClub: Get a free breakfast when you join the Mimi's Café eClub.

Tuesday, Mar.20-  Rita's Italian Ice: All Rita's locations will give away a free, regular size Italian Ice to every customer on the first day of spring, March 20. Just come in between noon and 9 p.m.

Wellness Week 3/19 through 3/25.   Time to indulge in treatments, services and classes for $50 or at a 50%  discount from participating salons, spas and yoga studios across the area.  Now you can focus on some rejuvenation for the mind, body and soul.  Book early.  Go to Wellnessweek2012.com  or Spafinder.com and put in your geographical area. 

information obtained from wtop.com and the washington post newspaper

 

DID YOU KNOW THAT MARCH IS SAVE YOUR VISION MONTH?

HotFlashFinds:  Healthy eyes and clear vision are important for everyone.  Remember to get comprehensive eye examinations regularly to preserve your vision.

Dr. Mark from Optix Eyecare Center in Durham, NC

Emmy the poodle, my husband and I get our eyes examined by our optometrist, Dr. Mark Newman.

Finds and Activities

HotFlashFinds: The weekend is almost here.  Here are some Finds and Activities.  I hope that you all have a nice weekend.

Saturday, Mar.10 : 3p.m.- Whole Foods Market are offering free cheese and more at stores in the U.S., Canada and the U.K.  They will simultaneously crack huge wheels of Pamigiano Reggiano cheese that have been aged for 24 months. www.wholefoods.com.

Saturday, Mar. 10: 11a.m.-2 p.m. vouchers for free FroZenYo.  If you like frozen yogurt, head to the Farmers Market in downtown Silver Spring.  That's where a Discovery Channel penguin will be passing out vouchers for free frozen yogurt from FroZenYo. The vouchers are first come, first serve while supplies last. The giveaway is to celebrate Discovery Channel's new 7-part series "Frozen Planet," which premieres at 8 p.m. March 18.

Feeling Lucky?  Sunday Mar.- Sat. Mar.17 :The D.C. Lottery offers what it calls "Mid-Day Money" specials available daily 11 a.m. to 2 p.m., buy $3 Smokin Hot Dice and you'll get one free $1 Piggy Bank Bucks Fast Play ticket.

Through Mar.12-West Elm Stores are marking down table ware 20%-25%, pillows 20%, and dining furniture 15%.  Time to think about doing a little spring sprucing up? www.westelm.com.

Behnke's Potomac location is offering beautiful Phalaenopsis orchids in whites, yellows, pinks and purples.  Originally priced at $39.95, they are now on sale for $29.95. These blooms are likely to last as long as 3 months. www.behnkes.com.

Baseball time and The Frederick Keys: The Frederick Keys baseball team has a Junior Keys Kids Club open to children 12 and younger that is free to join. Once they do, kids get lots of goodies including free tickets to a regular season Keys game, a free hot dog and free rides in the Keys Fun Zone.

Car2go is a new car sharing service and it is launching in our area this month.  Right now its offering free registration and 30 minutes of free drive time when you sign up using the promo code CAPITAL.

Through Mar. 31-Yokohama Tires at Mr. Tire: Buy three selected Yokohama Tires and get one free with this coupon.

Design Within Reach SemiAnnual Sale Mar.8-20 in stores and online.  Savings on many mid-20th century to present modern designs.  Items for living, dining, bedroom, outdoor and workspace, as well as lighting, rugs and accessories.  Includes items from Cassina, Fritz Hansen, and Kartell. www.dwr.com.
informaton obtained from wtop.com and the Washington Post.

HAPPY BIRTHDAY OREO COOKIE!

Happy Birthday Oreo Cookie!

                                                                           

The classic cream-filled cookie turns 100 today.

HotFlashFinds:  Did you know that there are 21 Oreo factories in the world today?  More than 491 billion Oreos have been consumed worldwide.  Did you know that different countries experiment with flavors and recipes?  In China there is even a green tea Oreo.  Nabisco (division of Kraft Foods) makes the Oreo cookie in the US.

How do you eat your Oreo cookie?  Do you twist the cookie open and eat one biscuit at a time,  do you lick the cream,  do you dunk each piece into milk or dunk the whole cookie into milk,  do you bite into the whole cookie, or do you drink milk with the cookie?

Kraft Foods created a limited-edition cookie called the Birthday Cake Oreo.  When you twist open the cookie you will find frosting speckled with colored sprinkles.

However you eat your Oreo cookie, or whatever kind of Oreo you like to eat,  I think that it is worthy to celebrate this exciting milestone by having an Oreo today.

WHOLE WHEAT, WHOLE GRAINS OR MULTI-GRAINS, DO YOU KNOW THE DIFFERENCE?

Whole Wheat, Whole Grains and Multi-Grains are not interchangeable terms. 
Whole grain means that all parts of the grain kernel are used. Multi-grain means that a food contains more than one type of grain, and none of them may necessarily be a whole grain. 
Whole wheat is one type of  grain used. When it comes to grains, don't settle for part; go for the whole and make it 100% whole.

Common grains include: oats, wheat, buckwheat, cracked wheat, flax, rice and millet.

Common sources include: breads, hot and cold cereals, crackers, chips, baking flours, tortillas, rolls, rice and pasta.

Loaf of Whole Wheat Bread

Bowl of Whole Grain Cereal



HotFlashFinds: The US Dept.of Agriculture recommends  that women have a minimum of 3 oz a day of whole grains.  Read food labels and ingredients. Beware of the words 'enriched wheat flour,' or' refined grains.'  Whole grains are missing from these kinds of foods and these foods will lack this nutritional benefit.  

The healthy benefits of eating whole grains or whole wheat include: lower incidence of diabetes, heart disease, and certain cancers.  Whole grains provide you with dietary fiber which is good for your GI system. They also, help lower cholesterol, give you more energy and help with weight loss.  Whole wheat and whole grains provide you with several B vits., omega-3 fatty acids (whole wheat),  and minerals.

I think these are all great reasons to eat  100% whole wheat or 100%whole multigrains, daily.  I hope that this helps you better understand the difference among them and help you to select healthier food choices when you are at the grocery store, or dining out or while preparing delicious meals in your kitchen.