World Market Coupon

World Market Coupons are considered a competitor coupon at *SOME* Publix Stores (go to the customer service desk and ask, so there are no surprises at check out).  Here is a link to a $10 off a $30 purchase.  HURRY, it expires Saturday!

Whether you use it at World Market or as a competitor coupon at Publix, it is a great deal!  The best part is it can be printed multiple times!!

Click Here!

Thank you to Ali for finding this coupon for all us!

Taggin' Along!

The "Mr." has a conference in Myrtle Beach Wednesday through Thursday.  I'm taggin' along for some vaca from our "normal" life (woot woot for the two day work week!). I plan to do some shopping (more so looking) while he is learning and earning those CEUs! 

Know of any places we should check out in the very happening Myrtle Beach (food and shopping)? 

Graham is going to "Camp" for the next several days at Moonshadow (your pet's home away from home)!  He LOVES that place.  I hope to get a video of him as we take him there.  He knows from two miles away that he is going to camp.  His jaws start quivering, he starts getting hyper (an under-statement), and even barks like crazy.  Most people would think he was having a panic attack, but that's just Graham getting super excited to see his buddies at Moonshadow!  Graham bolts out of the car when we get there (reminds me of a mom dropping off a kid at middle school), and trust me; we're ready for him to get out with all the commotion he puts on.  He knows the routine when we get there.  He heads straight for their front desk and dashes behind the counter! 

If your dog needs a place to stay for a few days, I'd recommend Moonshadow.  Tell'em Graham (the loving, curious, yellow lab) sent ya!

Just a note: some may think that he is bolting out of the car just to get away from us, (we'll maybe just me...he loves the "Mr.") but when we come to pick him up, he dashes to the car as soon as we say "load up!"  Man, we love that pup!

Crazy Dream

The other night, I dreamed (dreamt?) I was in high school, and I just got my first car.  I knew I was in a dream when it was a two door Lexis with heated seats (In fact, that is all I really remember about the dream....)!  The funny thing is this car is totally not me.  I have never even said I like this car.  After all, I'm a "four door kinda girl!"  What does this dream say about me or mean??? ¡Ay, caramba!

I actually drove this in High School.

"The Great '88!"  It was brown with "pinky brown" plush interior. I had a portable CD player I would insert an adapter into the tape deck of the car to listen to my "tunes." Those were the days! 

What was your first car?

Mmmmm Good Turkey Sub!

Last night when watching the football games, we saw a Subway commercial.  I was thinking to myself "man, I could really go for some Subway right now."

Well...looka here! 

Subway is now offering the "My Sub My Way" promotion.  Go here to play!  You build your own sandwich, and at the end, you have an opportunity to print a BOGO coupon!  When building your own sub, you have to name it.  Mine was the Mmmmm Good Turkey Sub!  It also tell your personality based on what your sub of choice is! (scary...yet interesting!)

Here's "My Sub My Way"
-Italian Herbs & Cheese bread
-Tomatoes
-Lettuce
-Light Mayo
-Yellow Mustard
-Vinegar
-Salt
-Pepper
-Provolone Cheese
-Turkey Breast
***"NO PICKLES!!"***(Allison, that one's for you!)

How do you like your sub?

Smokey Bones BOGO

I think this is a HOT deal!  Click HERE to print a BOGO (Buy One Entree Get One Free) coupon from Smokey Bones (there is a location in North Charleston, SC on Rivers Ave....click here to find more locations)! Valid through 1/30/10!

Has anyone been to Smokey Bones? I haven't, but it might be a perfect opportunity to try it!

Free Breakfast...Bruegger's Bagel

Bruegger’s has an email club, and just for signing up, you get a free bagel with cream cheese.  All they ask for is your email address, birthday (hopefully they'll use that for another free bagel), and zip code.  As soon as you enter, the coupon will show in your inbox!

Click Here to sign up

Mr. & Mrs. Soirées & Shenanigans have a date tomorrow morning to Bruegger's and then on to get an oil change.  Yes, we know...we're overly exciting folks!


psst...if you hate all those emails coming in from offers that you've signed up for, set up another email account just for offers.  OR, as soon as you get the second email from them, select unsubscribe (this is usually at the bottom of each email).

Lonnie The Morkie Goes Camping

We went on a "double date" to Poogan's Porch Tuesday night to try out their Roll Back Menu.  Of course, the conversation lead to our children! We talked about Graham, and they talked about one of their's, Lonnie the Morkie!  Lonnie went on his first camping trip with the guys.  He (I think it is a he?) was quite the trooper.  He even carried his own food in his puppy back pack (have you ever seen one of those?)!  Lonnie the 9 lb. Morkie carried 1.5 lbs. of food all by himself (I even heard he didn't complain!).

If I ever go camping (Holiday Inn), we're going to get one of those for Graham!

Here's Lonnie all packed and ready to go!

Lonnie posing by the lake (I hope his Dad gave him a treat for such a good Galmour Shot).

And a note to my concerned readers, I did ask for "parental consent" to feature Lonnie on the blog with his puppy back pack.  I know that puppies have rights too!

Get Your Pink Glove Groove On!

I love this song right now.  It is on repeat in the car! 
Check out this video!

Work Wish...

Dear Work Fairy Godmother,

I wish I had a peep hole for my door as I have caller ID for my phone.  Caller ID is awesome!  If the boss-man wants to punish me, just take that away!  It's nice to say "I'll let that go to voicemail."  BUT, its really bad when you let it go to voicemail, and then you here a knock at the door ("Oh shucks, do I answer it...Is it them?...Dang it, I need a peep hole").  Now, if I could just hide in my office and act as though I'm not here.  

Can you sprinkle a little “fairy dust” on maintenance and have them come install one for me?

Your hard-workin' gal,
Mrs. Soirées & Shenanigans

PS If your "fairy dust" works, could you get them to fix the heat too...BURR!

Weird, Cute, Funny....

These are all the words I heard when I told people I was starting a blog, and I was naming it Soirées & Shenanigans! I've been reading blogs for a while, so I know I am late in the game to start one of my own.  Nothing made me feel like I was the last person on earth to start a blog until I signed into Blogger to begin creating this blog.

The first step is to see what names/url's are available.  I kept trying and trying names, but they were all taken (dang it).  Here are some that I thought about:
-Saving Shenanigans
-H____(the town where I live) Happenings
-Southern Shenanigans

 Psst...can you tell I love alliteration??

And then it hit me Soirées & Shenanigans!  I love both of these words!  Every party to me is a Soirée and all the crazy stuff going on is simply Shenanigans! 

And it just so happens that Mrs. Soirées & Shenanigans and my "real" name are the same initials, MSS!  Well, it must have been meant to be!

I'm Lovin' Yoplait Frozen Smoothies

Since I'm suffering from Waffle Woes, I've been searching for a new breakfast food that wouldn't be so calorie dense (Toaster Strudels, I love you, but you're putting on the path back to Weight Watchers).  I had some coupons (2- $1 off one package) for Yoplait Frozen Smoothies.  At Publix, the smoothies are 2 for $5, so I figured, what the heck; we'll try them for $1.50/package or $0.75/smoothie.

This weekend we tried banana strawberry flavor. These were super good and filling! Mr. Soirées & Shenanigans said they had chucks of frozen yogurt and frozen fruit in the package.  The smoothies blended up really nice!  The calorie level on these aren't so bad either (70 calories per smoothie)! 

I think these will be on my shopping list in the future!  Especially now that there is a $1.25 off one coupon out there!  This would make it $0.63/smoothie!  A meal for 63 cents...can't beat that!

Get your $1.25 off one here!

PS It is Biggest Loser Approved too!

HOT Competitor Coupon ALERT: Rite Aid $5 off $25 Coupon

As many of you know by reading Soirées & Shenanigans, Publix takes competitor coupons (Yippee!).  Rite Aid has a $5 off a $25 purchase coupon, and it doesn't expire until 1/31/10.  Depending on your cashier at Publix, the "nice" cashiers will let you use one for every $25 you spend (ex: spend $100, and you can use 4 coupons).  The "strict" cashiers will only let you use one per purchase, but I tell them "ring up $25, and then I'll swipe my card."  It is a pain to do it this way (multiple purchases), but it is worth the savings!

Here the link to print your $5 off $25 coupon.

PS I don't shop at Rite Aid, but I'd think it is only one per purchase as the coupon states.

Winter Weekend Wear

On any given weekend during the winter, you'll find me in this.  I wear it all the time!  Pretty sure our neighbors and the people at Lowe's and Publix think that is the only thing I own. 

This was my first The North Face clothing.  I had it for about 4 year, but didn't really enjoy it until last year since we keep our house on 62 degrees (don't worry if you come to visit, will bump up the temp).  It's super warm, not too bulky, and great to bum around in!

What's your favorite Winter Weekend Wear?

Having Blog Troubles!

I'm been trying to set up "subscribe by email." After attempting this, all new post are not showing up in Google Reader. For those of you who follow or have put a link on your blog to Soirées & Shenanigans, none of the posts after the Publix post are showing up! 

To continue reading please bookmark http://soireesandshenanigans.blogspot.com/

For those wanting an email for each time there is a new post, email me: soireesandshenanigans@gmail.com

If you know how I can fix this, please email me!  THANKS!

BLOCKBUSTER Express™ kiosk

I've had a lazy weekend so far. We've been watching movies: The Proposal (watched it last night...thought it was super funny...great one-liners in it!) and Ghosts of Girlfriends Past (tonight...not good; don't waste your free code on this one).  The best thing about these movies is we've rented them for FREE!!  We've been hitting up the local BLOCKBUSTER Express™ kiosk in the Publix! 

Below are several FREE movie codes!  The only catch is you have to return the movie back to the kiosk before 9PM the following day! 

Even if you don't have the code, they rent for a $1 a day....not too bad!
Find a Kiosk

Codes:
GL9RA
GT11A
KIOSK
JANUARY
GT9RB
GV9TA4
GT9SA - exp 2/28
(I don’t know the other expiration dates)
 
Leave a comment if you know of other codes or know the expiration date!

Lots of great BOGOs at Publix this week!

Publix Couponing:
-Publix accepts competitor coupons
-You can use 2 coupons on a BOGO (buy one; get one) sale
-You can purchase just one item on the BOGO sale and get it ½ price
-Stacking Coupons: You can use 1 manufacturer and 1 store coupon per item

Here’s my BOGO list!
Lender’s Bagels, Assorted Varieties, 6 ct bag
-A staple in our house

Pedigree Dentastix Snack Food for Small Dogs
-I’ll factor Graham in for a treat! Got a coupon for this too!

Progresso Soup, Assorted Varieties, 18 to 19 oz can
-I’m getting 16 cans while it is on sale. Time to stock up!

Tyson Chicken Nuggets, Breaded, Fully Cooked: Original or Fun Shaped, 29 oz pkg
-A staple in our house. Time to stock up!

Kellogg’s Cereal, Assorted Varieties, Frosted Flakes, Froot Loops, Smacks, Corn Pops, Apple Jacks or Rice Krispies, 11.2 to 16.5 oz box
-I’m buying 4 boxes and have enough coupons and am stacking my coupons to get them FREE!

Thomas’ English Muffins, The Original Plain, 12 oz pkg

Breyers Ice Cream, Assorted Varieties, 48 oz carton
-Just buying one (it will be ½ price)

Fantastik Cleaner, Assorted Varieties, 26 or 32 oz
-Just buying one (it will be ½ price)

Hefty Cinch Sak Trash Bags or Tall Kitchen Bags or Ultra Flex Tall Kitchen Bags: Drawstring or Trash Refuse Liner, Assorted Varieties, 13 to 45 gal, 25 to 45 ct pkg

Charleston’s First Restaurant Week is almost over....Don't be sad...

Be Glad!  Some restaurants are offering the savings all month long!

High Cotton, SNOB & Old Village Post House
Get the $30 3-course meal all month long! 
 
Fleet Landing
Celebrating its 5th anniversary with $5 mussels, scallops, oysters and key lime pie.  From January 19 – 23, their specials will be a $5 plates including: all appetizers, desserts and entree choice of the daily blue plate special or a basket of fried seafood complete with sides. On January 23 only, $5 oyster buckets.

Med Bistro
Buy One Get One Free entrees every Tuesday in January.
 
Oh...and don't forget about Poogan's Porch Roll Back Menu!
 
Thanks to Allie, one of my readers and friend, for the heads up on these great deals!

Getting FREE stuff is all a game!

There are tons of promotions online to get free stuff and even some where you have to play a game to see if you are an instant winner. Well I am a sucker for these promotions.  At first, it used to "sketch" me out to give my email and home address.  After about the 50th time of doing so, it really doesn't bother me anymore.  I use an old email address (it's still active, but not my main account) when signing up promotions. 

Here are three "games" I'm playing to try to win free stuff.  I haven't won anything yet, but give it a try.  Please comment if you win something.  I would love to know that someone actually wins.

Dove: Spin For Your Skin- This promotion allows three spins a day. (You may want to turn down your computer speakers when playing.  The music on the site is LOUD!)

The Great Gallon Give (milk)- This promotion allows you to enter daily.  After each entry, you have an opportunity to print a coupon for milk. The only coupon I've seen after entering is a free 1/2 gallon chocolate milk if you buy two gallons of regular milk.  I don't know about you, but there is no way my house of two could go through that much milk before it expires.  I think those coupons are for people who own a daycare or something!!

The Nature Valley: Get Some Nature Promotion- This promotion allows you to enter daily as well.  You have a chance at winning some Nature Valley bars, t-shirts and things.

Happy Day Before FRIDAY!
Mrs. Soirées & Shenanigans

Fresh Coffee Anyone?

Saw this on the work coffee pot! It's hard to read in the picture below, but it states "this pot of coffee was made at..." Then the bottom cup serves as a dial and has the hours and minutes of the day listed.

Clever huh?

Cookies!

As many of you know, we recently went through "Remodel Hell" at our house.  We didn't have a kitchen for several months, so cooking was done in a microwave, grill or toaster-oven (did you know you could bake salmon in the toaster-over?  I've tried it all).  You can do a lot with these appliances, but it is NOT the same as a full functioning kitchen by any stretch of the imagination. 
The saying of "you always want something you don't/can't have" kept coming to mind throughout this experience.  We wanted to cook certain things (i.e., frozen pizza, brownies, cookies, etc), but we needed an oven or stove to do so. 

"Remodel Hell" made grocery shopping very interesting. frustrating.  I would go down the isles and read boxes to see if it had microwave directions.  Thank goodness for mini (very unhealthy) pizzas, Pasta Roni and Zanerian's Pasta dishes, and a big fat NO thanks to spaghetti noodles, brownie mixes and anything else that requires boiling or baking!

Now that we have our kitchen back, I have been doing some baking.  Below are some cookies I baked!  No, is it is not a family recipe. In fact, it came straight off the back of the chocolate chip's package, so I guess I am pulling a "semi-Julie!"  (Have all of you seen the movie, Julie & Julia?  I haven't, but I've heard it's good!)

Nestle Toll House Cookie Recipe:
2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
1 teaspoon baking soda
1 teaspoon salt
1 cup (2 sticks, 1/2 pound) butter, softened
3/4 cup granulated sugar
3/4 cup packed brown sugar
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
2 eggs
2 cups (12-ounce package) NESTLE TOLL HOUSE Semi-Sweet Chocolate Morsels
1 cup chopped nuts (optional in my house)

COMBINE flour, baking soda and salt in small bowl. Beat butter, granulated sugar, brown sugar and vanilla in large mixer bowl. Add eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition; gradually beat in flour mixture. Stir in morsels and nuts. Drop by rounded tablespoon onto ungreased baking sheets.

BAKE in preheated 375-degree [Fahrenheit] oven for 9 to 11 minutes or until golden brown. Let stand for 2 minutes; remove to wire racks to cool completely. (A Mrs. Soirées & Shenanigans' tip: put a piece of bread in the container you store the cookies.  It keeps the cookies moist!)

Chuck, Get out of my head!

For the past two nights, our TV has been tuned to the season premier of Chuck. The theme song keeps going over and over in my head! Graham hides under the bed when he hears this song because he knows his Dad isn't going to play with him while Chuck (his favorite show) is on!

And a big "PS" to NBC, please don't have the season premier of a Monday night show come on again on a Sunday night. Your network's decision screwed my chance of seeing my regularly scheduled program, the new episode of Desperate Housewives (my favorite show). Now I am forced to watch Sunday's episode on my laptop!
NBC, stick with the schedule!

(Yes, people...we have more than one TV in the house, but I chose to be supportive?)

I'm almost 30 yrs. old and still ride a bus!

I ride the bus everyday! Let me tell you, there is some rules that comes along with riding. I think you should have to sign some pledge that you will be a good rider or driver because a lot of people I encounter on this bus are RUDE not so kind!

Rider Rules:
#1 Two to a seat: Don't put your book-bag in the seat (it belongs in your lap), scoot to the window, and make room. If not, I'll say "could you please move your bag, I need a place to sit." AND PLEASE don't suck your teeth at my request (I hate those type of Shenanigans)!

#2 Wait your turn: When filing off the bus, we unload from front to back (no exceptions....we don't care if you are going to be late; we all have to be to work on time, so you should have got up earlier).

You always know the new people ("bless their hearts!"). They rush to the front because they think they're the only ones getting off. They'll only make that mistake on their first day!

#3 When loading the bus, it is who ever got to the bus stop first gets to load first. Don't cut in line!
What are some other bus rules? I know I am missing some.....

Bus Etiquette for Riders:
#1 Guys be a Gentleman like your Granny taught you. Now, I am all about a women being independent, but come on guys…if a girl gets on the bus, you should offer her your seat! I am one of the last stops to be picked up and generally there is standing room only. I'm 5' 2'' on a good day, so reaching the top handrail is a stretch for me, but I do it (however, I am tossed around that bus like a rag doll or a monkey hanging from a tree)! I may get asked once a month by a guy if I need his seat. Of course, I always take him up on the offer.

To my one or two male readers, if you were wearing 3 inch heels, I would offer you my seat!

#2 Women drop the independent crap and be lady by taking a gentleman up on his offer. Don't make him feel like less of a Gentleman by saying "no, I'll stand." You kill it for the rest of us ladies. Oh, and make sure to tell him "thank you."

#3 Please cover your nose and mouth when you cough and sneeze! I don't want to have to take my PTO because I HAD to sit with YOU, and you made me sick!

#4 If you're on your cell phone, keep it down! Remember, we can all hear about your ex-husband not paying child support, your "juicy" date from the night before and where you woke up, your kid failing algebra, and how much you hate your job.

Bus Etiquette for Drivers:
#1 When you see someone RUNNING to catch your bus, WAIT…don't drive off secretly laughing! You know you do it!

#2 If your rider greets you with "Good Morning," please don't just grunt or stare at them...politely greet them back!

#3 If you have riders standing up, please don't tap your brakes/do “brake checks” at the stop light!
PS I'm hanging on for “dear life” in the back!

#4 While we're on the subjects of breaks, you drive your route a million times a day. You know the traffic light patterns! Don't speed to the light, just to slam on brakes! You're driving a bus, Mario Andretti!

Happy Tuesday,
Mrs. Soirées & Shenanigans

Fat Tire

Meet our "son," Graham!  He is featuring his Dad's FAVORITE beer, Fat Tire.  You may have noticed on the receipt from Publix, we had to break down and buy the second best, Sam Adams.  Apparently, others have caught on to Fat Tire.  Last week, we purchased the last 6-pack and this week it was completely out!  If Publix is out next week, I think we'll be planning a trip to Fort Collins, CO! 

The hunt for Fat Tire sent me to their website to find where we else we could get this.  It is everywhere....except Ohio!  We're going to hit up the corner store to raid their stash of Fat Tire and 1554!

What New Belgium beers have you tried? 

Going to a party soon?  This would be a great beer to bring!  Or, the next time you are at the bar and want a new beer to try, tell them "I'll have a Fat Tire!" 

   

SAVE as much as I SPEND!

My weekly grocery shopping trips are to Publix. I used to think Publix was so expensive, so I would only buy my meats and veges there (shop the perimeter). The rest of my groceries (packaged and canned products) came from Wal-Mart...After all, Wal-Mart is the cheapest....right?

After doing some research and reading how other people save, I found out Publix takes competitor coupons! Competitors are not limited to other grocery stores but is open to CVS, Rite Aid, Total Wine, World Market (some Publix's...check at customer service before shopping) just to name a few.

Also, Publix has a mystery product each Wednesday or Thursday (check when your Publix does it) for a PENNY! Not all locations require you have the penny coupon from the paper, so you'll need to check with yours. You can't get much closer to free than a penny! The penny deal has been anything from toilet paper to hot chocolate to frozen pizza.

Keep your eye out for these!!

When going grocery shopping, it is my goal to SAVE as much as I SPEND. This week I was close. I SPENT $40.02 and SAVED $34.18.

Below are my receipts for those of you who feel that couponing only fills your cart up with JUNK! I purchased chicken, ground meat, sausage, milk, OJ, produce, etc. Check it out!

I, by no means, am a pro at couponing or thrifty shopping, but I do my best. I generally go to the store once a week. Since I work full-time, I don't have time to go store-to-store to get the best deal from each store, but with Publix taking competitor coupons, it makes my grocery store trip much easier. It's a no brainer; Publix is a "one stop shop" for me!

I had to split my purchase due to my $5 CVS coupon was one per customer.  Since two of us were shopping, we made two purchases.

Do you know of any high value coupons out there? 

Miss Soirées & Shenanigans

Restaurant Week South Carolina

Restaurant Week South Carolina starts this Monday (tomorrow-1/11/10) and goes through Sunday (1/17/10). Several SC cities are participating: Charleston, Greenville, Columbia, Myrtle Beach and Hilton Head. In Charleston, over 45 restaurants are participating! Each restaurant has a set menu for the event, so head on over to the site! It is time to plan a date, a fun night out or even a Soirée! Could this be the "Most Delicious Week of the Year?"
I have my eye on a few places for me and the hubby to check out during the week. I'll let my "blog lurking/private following" hubby pick which one (smooches babe)!
Hall's Chop House
Oak Steakhouse (I wonder if I can use my $25 restaurant.com gift certificate with this promotion?)
Slightly North of Broad (SNOB)
Blossom
Make sure you make reservations early. Great opportunity to try a "we only go there for our anniversary" restaurant for less!

Thanks to one of my readers and dear friend, Julie, for giving me a "heads up" about this week!   Julie, you are so in the know!

Hope everyone has a great week,
Mrs. Soirées & Shenanigans

Roll Back Menu: Poogan's Porch

The Roll Back Menu at Poogan's Porch has started.  It is for the two months of January and February and is Sunday through Thursday (dinner only)!  It is their menu from 1978, and the best part is it is priced at 1978 prices!!

A note from the owners:
"This menu is prepared and discounted on a yearly basis in appreciation of our local cliental.  Thanks for 32 great years Charleston" -The Ball Family


Make your reservations quick at Open Table or by calling them at (843) 577.2337!

My favorite thing on the menu is the Buttermilk Fried Chicken!

The Oprah Effect?

As a preface to today's post, have any of you seen the CNBC show, The Oprah Effect?  I watched it the other night and was amazed the lengths businesses will go to be on the Oprah Show or to be one of Oprah's favorite things.  After these businesses have been on her show, their sales went through the roof, so much so, these business could not handle the number of orders rolling in until weeks/months after the show aired.

Below is an email I received after signing up for a free sample of doggie shampoo from Happytails Spa!  It reminded me of the Oprah Effect, and it also reminded me when I see a freebie to not delay and sign up for it pronto! 

Many of the companies trying to get on the Oprah show spend “boat loads” of money sending Oprah and her staff tons of their products in hopes that she will try, love it and share it with her audiance.  Since Oprah is going off the air, maybe these companies will redirect their Oprah funds to "the world of internet freebies."  The news of the company's product will spread like "wild fire" all over the internet by "everyone and their brother" trying to get a free try at the latest products.  How about those not so free Shenanigans?

So, when reading this email, do you think this company missed their opportunity at a "Pseudo Oprah Effect" or handled it pretty good considering the situation?

Email Subject: An Apology
From: Happytails Canine Spa Line
"It was a simple plan; add a free sample banner ad to Dogster's email, what could possibly go wrong?
We were expecting (at the very most) 2000 requests. Then someone was kind enough (?) to post the link to several 'free stuff' web sites (you probably know the ones I'm talking about) and within minutes we were receiving thousands of requests per hour. So far we have received more than 50,000 requests, yikes! This far exceeds the 500 per week we had promised to send (& which we have sent).
We're a small company, but we thought that if all four humans and all three dogs worked 24 hours a day to make and send samples we could finish by the end of the decade. But then the dogs brought up that whole 'lack of opposable thumbs' thing and we knew we were sunk.
We could have just ignored this whole episode but we don't want to own a company that does that kind of thing, you made the effort to write and the least we could do is thank you and apologize.
We're SOOO sorry.
So, here's what we're gonna do:

1. Give you a $15 'gift certificate' to be used on any order $35 or more. Good through January 31, 2010. Just use promotion code: $15DOGSTERGIFT

2. We already gave you a 20% promotion code (DOGSTERDISCOUNT) good through Feb. 15th. But as our way of apologizing we are going to make the code good through the end of July- you can use it as many times as you'd like. Just go to www.happytailsspa.com to redeem it.

Again, we can only apologize for mix up, next time we'll be sure to add a little more fine print.
Lorna, Kevin, Lauryn & Jason (the humans)
and RiQui, Brie and Jimmy (the dogs)"

Hey Culligan Man, You Rock!

My Daddy has been a Culligan Man for my whole life. ("A Culligan Man?" you say. Well you must not be from the Mid West or the North, as it is a household name in those parts...here's a link to fill you in). In fact, the year I was born he built his "shop" (our family name for "his home away from home"). My Dad once said "selling water / water treatment equipment isn't a sexy career, but it puts food on the table!" Well, it has done a lot more than that; he provided tons for our family and still does!

While growing up, my Dad always wanted to make sure us kids knew the importance of giving. He never made a show about giving; he just did it! My Dad was honored on Monday night with The Pillar of the Community Award by the Town of Lexington and Police Department. He has donated over 8,000 bottles of water to them. He was recognized at the town council meeting and received an award shaped like a pillar. Wow, how cool is that?


Dear Daddy,
We are so proud of you...Congrats! You have always been very generous, but often take the "behind the senses approach" when giving and doing good deeds. You're hardly ever recognized for the many (often private) deeds you've done. I know it may have been out of your comfort zone to go to the town council meeting to accept this awesome award, but you deserve it; you rock! I am so proud to call you My Dad!
Love,
Your Baby Girl

Coupon Queen

To become a Queen of anything, it takes practice (or a lot of money, your family tree, but I digress...sigh)! One of my goals for the new year is to become a Coupon Queen! All of the "tricks of the trade" I have learned so far have come from reading blogs! One of the best blogs for couponing is Southern Savers! If you haven't check this out, it’s an absolute must!


She is holding classes all over the Southeast. I'm planning to go to this one, so if you are in the Charleston, and are planning/would like to go, leave a comment. All us, Aspiring Coupon Queenies, can sit together!

If you are not in the Charleston area, here is a full list of her classes.

How about those Saving Shenanigans?

PS the Coupon Queen logo above is from this website. If you're totally into the coupon thing, order you a snazzy t-shirt to wear to the grocery store. The cashier will know you are coming from a mile away!

Top 10 songs of the Decade

While driving in the car on Sunday, we listened to the top 100 songs of the Decade. Luckily we caught it right at the end to hear the top 5 songs. Below are the top 10 Songs from 2000-2009 with their release dates! I feel like some of these songs just came out yesterday! However, that is not the case at all. Some came out when I just started college!
Under the top 5 songs in italics, I have listed a special memory I have when I hear the songs today!

1 - Usher: Yeah (March 2004)
This song I will NEVER forget! I had just started my first job and didn't have an office yet. The CEO let me use his computer to get some things done, so I hopped on his computer and was doing my thing (everything but work and everyone was about to know it....)! As you may remember, Myspace was HOT at the time. My friend, Julie, had this song on her page. Well, when I clicked on her page, the whole C-suite heard that song coming from/”thumping it” from the CEO’s office! I was like "holy shizit" and frantically closing out ever window on that computer to get it to STOP! Rule number one: NEVER screw around on the CEO's computer or at least turn the speaker volume down because apparently he is really hard of hearing!!

2 - Lifehouse: Hanging By A Moment (October 2000)
No real personal memories of this song, but one of by best grad school friends, Heather, loves this band! I am sure we belted this song out plenty of times on the way to the gym in her candy apple red Honda coupe!

3 - Flo Rida [Featuring T-Pain]: Low (March 2008)
For Stef's 30th Birthday Party in the Fl Keys (Marathon), this was the song of the week! One of the girls on the trip had it as a ring tone on her phone. She would randomly play the song throughout the trip, and the whole group of girls would bust out in song & dance. We certainly got funny looks in the airport and the one honky tonk bar in Marathon.

4 - Kelly Clarkson: Since U Been Gone (November 2004)
Well this song was perfect timing for my relationship status. I had just broken off my engagement to a guy I had dated since high school. So, Nov 2004 was the first time I had really hit the dating scene since being out of my parents' house. Oh, "it was the best of times (feeling free) and the worst of times" (blind dates never worked out for me)!

5 - 50 Cent: In Da Club (February 2003)
This was a hit song when I graduated college. I went with a group of my girlfriends on a graduation cruise in May 2003, and this song was HOT! No particular memories with this songs, but that cruise, tons of memories.
For my girls who read that were on that trip, here is a few one liners:
"Call Maintenance the water is TOO HOT...no YOU call maintenance…No YOU!"
"Hey where's Natalie? Oh, the Schooner bar...that's right!”
"Roll down the windows; I'm turning off the AC. We're on E...so, where can we get off this toll road for gas?

6 - Leona Lewis: Bleeding Love (April 2008)

7 - Beyonce: Irreplaceable (December 2006)

8 - The All American Rejects: Gives You Hell (December 2008)

9 - Fergie: Big Girls Don't Cry (release date September 2006)

10 - Linkin Park: In The End (release date October 2000)

Got any memories of these songs?  I love to hear them!!

Operation Repo = The Definition of Shenanigans

I will be the first to say that this show is completely trashy, and if my mother knew her baby girl watched this, she would probably ring my neck (ouch!).  However, this show makes me laugh so hard I sometimes cry. 

I promised a "shout out" in this post to friends MM & her Huntmaster Hubby, as they suggested this post.  Here's their review of the show: "We didn't watch op repo last night, but a couple weeks ago, I was about to wet my pants it was so funny!" 

Their theme song to a Mexican tune (apparently it's Puerto Rican after reading YouTube comments...let's be PC people) and their tag line of "It ain't no joke if you don't pay that note" makes me giggle just thinking of it. 

The show comes on tru TV Monday nights at 10PM. You have to check it out at least once!  I promise you will get more than a few chuckles out of it!  If anything, you'll never forget or miss a car payment ever (again?) for fear these jokers will show up in your driveway!

I guess I am not the only one who watches the show because it appears the lead guy in the show, Lou, is the producer of their upcoming movie.  The movie seems absolutely ridiculous (p.s. it was supposed to come out in 2008, but hasn't yet)!  The plot of the movie is they repo a Dodge Magnum, as they do all the time in the show, and they happen to upset these "thugs." Well, they kidnap the head guy's daughter, Lyndah,  as revenge, so Lou and the gang "take the law in their own hands" to fight these thugs to get Lyndah back (the movie trailer shows a scene were Lou states "No cops" (what a role model?)).  Just a guess, but I think if this ever comes out it will be rated R (duh!).

Movie Website-Click Here

I wonder if they will have a Red Carpet Movie Premiere for this movie!  If so, sign me up!  I'll bet you'll to go too (wink)!  How 'bout those Shenanigas?

Who said there is no such thing as a FREE LUNCH?

Calling all Alabama, Florida, Georgia, North Carolina, South Carolina, Mississippi, Tennessee or Virginia readers,  you've got to sign up for this not one, not two, but THREE free lunches deal from Blue Ribbon Foods! Here's what comes in the package: two lemon pepper boneless chicken breasts, two super-select boneless pork chops, and two gourmet steak burgers. Everything comes in a reusable, personal-size cooler!

I know what you are thinking...."what is the catch?"  Nothing!  Just HURRY on over the Blue Ribbon Foods Website to fill out the information and a service representative will call you!  I saw on another website that this deal is "no longer."  Got to act super fast!

 Thanks to Free Stuff I love some Free Shenanigans!!!

Act FAST...what are you waiting on?

If there is one thing I have learned, when something is being given away or is free, you need to act FAST!  Here are two HOT freebies that I just signed up for.  Hurry!!!

Post It Notes
Do you work at a desk all day?  I do, and love Post It Notes.  This is a new product that I haven't tried, but hope I made the cut-off to get this NFL (not for long) freebie!

Glade Sense & Spray
I love Glade everything (candles, sprays, plug-ins, etc).  I have "cashed" in several high-value coupons for Glade product and received several Sense & Sprays for free. I will be excited to get this in the mailbox! 

Even if you are luke-warm about these products, sign up for them.  The Glade would make a great addition to a gift basket for a house warming gift.  The Post It Notes would be awesome to give to your favorite coworker or Secretary's Day 2010 is April 21st!

The best of 2009: Charleston City Paper

Vote for your favorite 2009 Soirees & Shenanigans in Charleston, SC.  Click here to vote! There are tons of catagories. Anything from Best Twitter Feed to Favorite Artist!  Speaking of Artist....vote for Joanna Jackson!  Check out her website! 
Happy Voting!  Tell me what your favorite 2009 Soirees & Shenanigans were by posting a comment! (pretty please...I'll be your best friend!)

Cougars stun North Carolina

The title of this post is taken straight out of the local paper! College of Charleston beats UNC last night in overtime (82-79). C of C has only done this 3 times! I'm proud to say the other 2 times were when I was a student at C of C! It was nice to wake up this morning and gloat to my naysayer husband when the 5AM news announced the big win! Go Cougars!! You're C of C pictures and paraphernalia in my home are earning their keep (althought the husband asked if I wanted to take them to work with me this morning)!

That naysayer husband of mine is a Boilermaker. For the Southerners out there, that is Purdue, a “little” school in Indiana where most of the Astronauts went to school and where my husband graduated! No ladies (and gentlemen?), he isn’t an Astronaut rather an Agronomist (“what’s that,” you say….we’ll talk about later).

Back to basketball…I would be remiss if I didn’t mention that the Boilermakers are currently UNDEFEATED (Boiler Up). So, it looks like we are going to have a pretty good basketball season at our house if I didn't just jinx it. (We won’t talk about those football shenanigans…don’t mention it!)

Happy Tuesday!  If you get bored today, tune in ESPN. C of C is all over that!!

Waffle Woes

Over the past couple of weeks, I have been going store to store to find my "every morning breakfast food," Kashi Heart to Heart Honey Oat Waffles.  I've tried every waffle brand, but nothing matches up to these (especially in that calorie range).  After Wal-Mart didn't have them for the 2nd week in a row, I put a hunt out on the web to find if my "every morning breakfast food" was no long (I would be so sad). 
Come to find out, I am not the only one with the Waffle Woes.  Many people have gone to their website searching for the same answers.  Kashi is experiencing delays in production.
Here is what they said: "We are experiencing delays in production due to repairs and equipment upgrades at our waffle facility. We expect to be fully stocked in the middle of 2010 and will be posting updates about when our waffles will be back on shelf."
MIDDLE of 2010...are you kidding....what am I supposed to do until then?  I have been eating these every day for two years!  I hope they post a coupon or two for all experiencing these Waffle Woes!!! 
Planning a Waffle Soiree in the frozen food isle in Mid 2010 when they return....details to come!

At My Local Home Depot

Happy New Year! 
I always wish I was carrying the camera when I don't have it. We went for a quick trip to Home Depot to pick up a few things to fix up the rental for the new renters (side note: praise the Lord it is rented for two more years). When we were driving out of the parking lot, my husband pointed out a couple in matching camouflage jackets (the one's hunters wear).  I was thinking "how cute (not really) they match."  When we drove by them, the women was carrying a Louis Vuitton Monogram Speedy!  What an interesting combo!  The perfect mix of Soirees & Shenanigans don't you think?  Only in this country town!