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.

                                                                                                                                                              

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

HotFlashFinds:  Please Check out these Bargain Finds and Activities for the first weekend in March.  Wishing you all a fun weekend.

Friday, Mar. 2- Monday, Mar.5: Chicken sandwiches are buy one, get one free at Burger King. No coupon needed. The offer includes the Original Chicken, Chicken Club and Italian Chicken sandwiches.

Friday, Mar.2 and Friday, Mar.16:   jcp:  Every 1st and 3rd Friday of the month, look for the blue and you will find the best prices.  www.jcpenny's.com.

Saturday, Mar. 3- 10a.m.- 5 p.m.& Sunday, Mar.4 -10a.m.-4p.m.: Chocolate Lovers Festival: Yum!  Find a collection of goodies including cakes, fudge brownies, and ice cream.  Old Town Hall, Fairfax, VA. www.chocolatefestival.net.  Free admission; $1 per taste.

Saturday, Mar. 3:   In the mood to paint?  You can get a free quart of Clark + Kensington Paint at participating Ace Hardware stores on Saturday, March 3, with this coupon, while supplies last. Most stores will have about 40 quarts to give away.

Saturday, Mar. 3-  11:30a.m. to 3p.m.: Women's History Month Family Day at the National Portrait Gallery . Activities are free, and include talks by actresses portraying famous women, such as Clara Barton, art and science projects and sing-alongs, as well as a vintage Girl Scout uniform fashion show.

Monday, Mar. 5- Friday, Mar. 9 free pre-selected breakfast item during breakfast hours: Many Chick-fil-A restaurants in the area are giving away free food during breakfast hours. Stop by any of the 48 participating restaurants around the region to pick up a pre-selected breakfast item free each day, no purchase necessary. Free items will vary by location. 

Thursday, Mar.8: Marni Arrives at H&M:   Marni's collaboration with H&M starts on 3/8/12.  Only at select H&M stores and online.  Women and Men's clothing available.  Featured are signature mix & match prints, artsy jewelry, chunky shoes and sandals, and men's anorak jackets.   Some of the prices range from $ 19.95- $149.  www.hm.com.

Kindle Owners: If you have a Kindle, a website called Pixel of Ink will let you know about free and deeply discounted books. You can sign up to get a daily email from them if you like.

Do you use L'Oreal Hair color to color your hair at home?  If yes: Join L'Oreal's Gold Rewards program, and when you buy five L'Oreal hair color products, you'll get one free. 

Outback Steakhouse Bloomin' Onion:  This freebie depends on NASCAR driver Ryan Newman, who drives the No. 39 Chevrolet. If he places in the top 10 in a NASCAR Sprint Cup Series race this season, you get a free Bloomin' Onion at Outback Steakhouse with any purchase on the Monday immediately following the race. One offer per table.

Container Store: "Work Smart Office Sale"  Ongoing through Mar. 25.   Now's the time to do some spring cleaning in your office. Stylish organizing solutions that come in fun prints and cut-out patterns are marked down.  At both area stores and online: www.containerstore.com.

Information found at wtop.com and from sections of the Washington Post Newspaper.