Mountain House Community Garage Sale is This Weekend!

This is probably my favorite event in Mountain House.  Every year, I find something I need at an awesome price. 

The first year we lived here, I got some perfect curtains for my house.  I really needed them, too, because we had just moved in, and the last thing we needed to spend money on was new curtains.  Last year, I got a nice bookshelf that I had been looking for, along with a bunch of nice, practically new, clothes that I knew would fit either my sister or me for $1 a piece.  My parents got some nice leather couches for a steal, too. 

So, you can bet we well be out in force come Saturday morning.  Come join us.  You can find all of the info and maps here: http://wiki.mhvillages.com/~wiki17/index.php?title=Community_Garage_Sale

Bargain Alert: FREE Papa Burger From A&W for Joining Their Text Club

Right now you can get a FREE Papa Burger (Single not Double) from A&W by texting BURGER to 70626.  There's no purchase necessary, and the coupon is valid May 4 - May 10, 2012. 

This automatically signs you up for their text club, but you can always opt out later, if you want to.  And, rumor is that only some restaurants are participating, so you'll need to make sure your local one is.

Yay for Free Stuff!

Something Fun: U-Pick Farms Around The Altamont Pass

I think it's such a great experience to pick your own fruit straight off the tree it grows on, and we're lucky enough to live very close to one of the best places to do that.  Here's a great post from the Mountain House Living Blog about the U-Pick Farms in Brentwood:

http://mountainhouseliving.com/blog/?p=1000

Bargain Alert: Tax Day Freebies and Deals

I'm sure you've seen the articles about all of the tax day freebies, but I thought I'd post some of the local deals here, as well.

Here's a few courtesy of MSN Money:

• Arby’s: Free curly fries at participating restaurants April 17. For the coupon "like" Arby’s Facebook page.
• Panda Express: You can get a free single serving of Shanghai Steak on April 17 with a coupon from the Facebook page.
• P.F. Chang's: 15% off dine-in and take-out orders April 17. The deal does not include happy hour or P.F. Chang's for Two.
• Sonic: Half-price drinks and slushes all April 17 at participating restaurants.
• Office Depot: The chain is offering up to 5 pounds of free paper shredding and 25 free photocopies (say, of your tax return) through April 16.

And some more that I found while looking around the web, courtesy of The Christian Science Monitor:

• Chevy's Fresh Mex: A tax-free deal. Chevy's will pay sales tax on all meals. 
• Chili’s: Free dessert or appetizer with an adult entrée purchase. Only one coupon is redeemable per table, so it looks like you’ll have to go alone.  You will have to use This coupon.
• IHOP: Kids eat free with a paying adult from 4 pm to 10 pm. Offer valid through  the month of April.
• McDonald’s: Free pie or small cone with purchase of $2.99 or more. Only available at participating locations.

Gluttony will surely make me feel better after writing that check to the IRS...

Something Fun: Earth Day Around the Altamont Pass

Earth Day is on Sunday, April 22nd this year, and I've found a few events around the area that you may enjoy.

Wente Vineyards is having a really cool celebration, with family friendly activities.  There will be presentations on sustainability at Wente, tours around the gardens and sanctuary at the golf course, activity booths for kids and adults, and of course, wine tasting.  Most activities are free, but you'll have to pay for wine tastings and food purchases. The event takes place from 11:00 AM to 4:00 PM and more information can be found here: http://www.wentevineyards.com/news/event_list/earth_day_celebration/

And if you want to take a little drive, Stockton is holding their Annual Earth Day Festival, from 11:00 AM to 4:00 PM, with entertainment, booths and exhibits, a Family Fun Bike Ride, as well as food and clothing drives.  You can get more information on the free event here: http://livegreensanjoaquin.org/index.htm

Concannon Vineyard is also celebrating Earth Day with special tours and tastings, although this one seems like it's more for the adults.  I can't really tell when these events are available - just on Earth Day or on any other day, as well.  This information is mostly courtesy of PR Web, supposedly from a press release by Concannon, but it's difficult to find the same exact information on their website.  Here's the link to the article on PR Web.  And you can go to their website here: http://www.ConcannonVineyard.com

So Much To Do Around the Altamont Pass This Summer

I've been anxiously awaiting my next opportunity to post because there's so much exciting stuff comping up in our area.  While I'm loving the rain, summer is right around the corner. I can tell because the Summer Activity Guides for the Cities of Livermore and Tracy have come out, and I'm so excited about what they hold.

Livermore has a ton of classes and camps for kids.  We've been thinking about picking one that my step-daughter and my niece, who lives in Livermore, can attend together.  They will be so excited when they hear about it.  So far, I'm loving the GLEE Summer Camp and the Nature Camps.  I wish I could go!  Fortunately, the brochure contains many activities available for adults, as well.

You can find the Livermore Activity Guides here.

I'm especially excited about the Tracy Activity Guide, found here.  They say that you shouldn't judge a book by it's cover, but how can you not get excited when you see this?

I love old cars, and especially trucks, so I'm really excited about the Then & Now Car Show happening on July 21st in Downtown Tracy. 

But inside, there's much more, too.

I've seen signs around the mall about this, but the brochure also mentions that they're going to have a Farmers' Market at West Valley Mall in Tracy.  This will be so much more convenient for us in Mountain House and I'll probably end up going more often, since I'm in that area most weekends, anyway.  It runs on Sundays, May 6th until October 27th, 8:00 AM to 1:00 PM.  The guide also lists many other Farmers' Markets in San Joaquin County, including the original Tracy Farmers' Market, on Saturdays May 5th through October 27th, 8:00 AM to 1:00 PM.

There will also be some other fun community events downtown.  There will be Downtown Block Parties: "Enjoy music, wine, beer, dancing & a bite to eat!" And each Party has a different theme:

May 4th will be a Cinco de Mayo Celebration
June 8th is Blues & Brews
June 22 will be Old Time Rock & Roll, 50's & 60's Night & Taste of Tracy
August 3rd is Boots & Buckles Country Night
August 24th is Classic Rock Night

There will also be outdoor movies on the Downtown Plaza at 6th & Central, starting at sunset on July 13th, July 27th, and August 10th.

I think they've had these events in previous years, but I feel like they haven't been so well advertised as they are this year, right in the very front pages of the brochure.

There's also Girls Night Out on May 11th, and Tracy's Best Yard Sale on June 16th. 

Even further in, there's a wealth of Summer Camps for kids.  I think Egal Lakes Day Camps sound like something our kid would love.  From the brochure: "Each week includes: team sports, games, swimming, crafts, water activities, nature walks, fitness and more."  There are many more camps available, as well as activities for adults.

My family is yet to decide which activities we'll participate in this summer, but we're pretty sure it will be a great time.

Bargain Alert: Wedding Bargains from Groupon

As you know, wedding season is just getting started, and Groupon is offering some great deals for just that purpose.  I'm a little late on posting about these, so you'll want to move quickly, but I just had to share some of these great deals that you can use online or locally.

Half off voucher for BlueNile.com.  You can buy a $50, $100 or $200 voucher for BlueNile.com from Groupon for half price.  This is a great deal for purchasing wedding jewlery.  Go here to get it. 

$99 for an Engagement Photo Shoot by Supreme Optique Photography in Tracy.  For $99 you get a two hour photo shoot, at two separate locations, with time for two wardrobe changes, and eight 4x6" prints (a $230 value).  Get this one here.

Go here for more wedding deals, including a deal for invitation printing, custom photo books, custom labels, and many more.


Remember, these end today, so hurry on over and get your Groupon.

Bargain Alert: A Couple of Great Dining Deals from LocalGruv

There are a couple of good deals on food available today on LocalGruv.com.  You can get a $10 voucher for $5 to use at Carl's Jr. in Pleasanton, or at Wise Guys Philly Cheesesteaks n' Gyros in Livermore.

Carl's Jr. is always a decent bet in the fast food world, and I have been wanting to try their new Jalapeño Patty Melt.  Click here to get the half off deal for Carl's Jr.

And I'd seen Wise Guys a few times off of the Airway Blvd exit on 580, but I never knew that they served Philly Cheesesteaks.  I'm definitely going to have to give them a try.  Click here to get the half off deal for Wise Guys. (This one is only available today.)

Mi Pueblo Food Center is Now Open in Tracy!

I'm so excited to hear that Mi Pueblo Food Center is now open in Tracy.  I feel like I've been waiting forever, when in reality it was just a few months since I heard that the SaveMart on Tracy Blvd had closed and was going to become a Mi Pueblo. 

I was first introduced to Mi Pueblo stores a couple of years ago by my friend who is originally from Mexico.  She loved going there because she said it reminded her of being back in Mexico.  We went there together and ate at their in-store taqueria (each store has one, I believe).  It was really yummy, inexpensive food.  Plus they have really good prices on quality produce and each store has a great carniceria (meat department) and panaderia (bakery).

Now, I know some people may be reluctant to go there if they don't speak Spanish.  But let me reassure you.  Their staff is bilingual (Spanish/English) and I am always treated just like every other customer and have a great experience in their stores, despite the fact that I can barely remember any of my high school Spanish.  Plus, it's a great way to experience something out of the norm, and brush up a little on your Spanish vocabulary: lechuga = lettuce.  See?  It will be fun.

They're now open at:

3225 N. Tracy Blvd.
Tracy, CA 95376

Their Grand Opening Celebration will be on Saturday, March 31st.  I definitely plan on stopping by that day to see all of the festivities that they're bound to have.

Here's their new weekly flier.  It's also bilingual.  http://www.mipueblo.com//mipueblo/wp-content/uploads/especiales/TRACY.pdf

Or visit their website at: http://www.mipueblo.com/mipueblo/

Bargain Alert: $11 for 2 Hours Studio Time, 12" x 12" Canvas and Use of all the Supplies at Sharaku Paintertainment

For the next four days, LocalGruv is offering a voucher for 2 hours of studio time, a 12" by 12" canvas and all the paint and supplies you'll need to create a beautiful painting at Sharaku Paintertainment in Pleasanton.  (Although in my experience, I usually start out feeling like I'm going to paint like Van Gogh, but end up with something that looks like an elephant painted it.  But most people are much more artistic than I am.)  And at $11 you might as well give it a shot, since you couldn't even purchase the supplies you'd need to create a painted canvas for that price, so it's totally worth it. 

Go here to purchase your voucher and see the details of the offer. 

And what's even better, a portion of the proceeds go to The Taylor Family Foundation.

Something Fun: Limericks About Where You Live

I was listening to the radio this morning and they asked people to call in with limericks about their hometown, and I thought that was a fun idea. So, I'd love to hear yours.  Please share them in the comments below.  And just so that you don't feel too embarrassed, I'll share mine, since I'm sure yours will be much better.

I think that I never have seen
A sight that is quite so pristine
As the trees and the grass
Of the Altamont Pass
When, like my dear Ir'land, are green


Happy St. Patty's Day!

Bargain Alert: Free French Fries from Burger King This Weekend

This Saturday, March 17th and Sunday, March 18th, Burger King is giving away a free value size french fry to every customer, with no purchase necessary.  And to celebrate St. Patty's Day, they're serving them with a special green sauce.  I'm not sure if that's gross or fun, but who can pass up some tasty, free french fries?

Click here for more info: http://www.bk.com/en/us/company-info/press/press-release2536.html

Something Fun: Discover Chocolate Making With a Free Class Today or Sunday

Yelp is having an event called, Yelp's Field Trip and they're offering free classes and experiences throughout the Bay Area.  Unfortunately it's mostly over, but I found this one that sounds really fun: A World of Chocolate at Nuubia Chocolat.  Nuubia Chocolate is located in Pleasanton, and in this free class you'll learn about how Chef du Chocolat, Lionel Clement creates beautiful and delicious chocolate confections with environmentally sensitive ingredients.  And hopefully you'll get to taste some of the delicious treats.

Classes are:

Friday, March 16th at 4:00 PM: click here to RSVP for this class.

Sunday, March 18th at 3:00 PM: click here to RSVP for this class.

Have fun!

Bargain Alert: Kids Eat Free at Chili's March 5-7th (Plus Free Chips and Queso)

For the next two days, kids 12 and under eat free at Chili's with the purchase of a regular entree.  I rarely need an excuse to go to Chili's, so this is a bonus. 

Click here for the coupon you'll need to bring.

Plus! If you sign up for their email club, you get free chips and queso. Double Bonus!  Go here to sign up. 

Activities through the City of Tracy

We're almost done with my step-daughter's basketball class, Just 4 Hoops, through the City of Tracy.  She is having a great time learning skills in a non-competitive environment.  For us, this was a good alternative for a kid who says she wants to join a team, but would probably be over it in about 2 weeks, once she found out how much work and dedication it really takes.  So, this was our test run, so that she could learn and practice the game, before making that commitment.

And I have to say, I'm really impressed.  The coach, just a young guy, really knows what he's doing, and is so good with the kids.  I am so glad that we signed her up for the class.  And she's really looking forward to her Just 4 Kicks soccer class, starting in a few weeks. 

Just 4 Hoops and Just 4 Kicks have classes for a wide range of ages, and I really recommend it for kids who are interested in sports, but need a little help with their skills.  And the City of Tracy Activity Guide really has something for everyone, and generally, at reasonable prices, especially compared with a private institution.  (Note: Mountain House residents don't qualify for the Tracy resident prices.)

Check out the Winter/Spring Activity Guide here.

Bargain Alert: $25 for a Horse Riding Lesson in Livermore

My sister is a horse person, so I practically grew up around horses, and I was lucky enough to be able to ride when I wanted.  So, it always surprises me when I meet adults that have always wanted to but have never ridden a horse. 

Right now, Groupon has the opportunity to do that for a great price, right here in Livermore.  Airdance Farm is offering 3 different packages, starting at $25 for a lesson, $89 for 4 lessons and $49 for an introduction to horses (which includes a lesson). 

It sounds like this is a great chance to fulfil those life-long dreams.  Or better yet, make your little one's dream come true before they grow up.

Check out the deal here.

Spring Gardening in the Altamont Pass

I know it's still February, but I'm already itching to get started with my spring gardening.  Two summers ago we had a great big, bountiful backyard vegetable garden.  Last year - not so much.  We just didn't put the same effort into it that we had the year before.  So this year, I'm determined to have a large garden (and to keep the dogs from eating my plants before they can grow.)  

It seems it took adding a lot of nutrients to our soil to get it to produce anything.  I suspect it's because we're on old farm land that has had nutrients pulled out of the soil for years. We like a fish guts mixture for fertilization that you can purchase at Lowes or Home Depot called "Alaska Fish Fertilizer."  It smells really bad for a couple of days but it seems to make a big difference in our garden.  (We also try to use our own compost, using produce scraps from our house to make a nice rich soil, but we were getting too many visitors from raccoons and possums so we've stopped doing that until we can get a compost bin with a lid.)

I am also interested in finding some plants for our front yard that are fairly drought tolerant.  I've found that the each county's Master Gardeners websites are great resources for finding plants that are best for your local climate.  Alameda County Master Gardeners even have a "water wise" demonstration garden at the Martinelli Center in Livermore. 

Here's the Master Gardeners site for San Joaquin County: http://sjmastergardeners.ucdavis.edu/

And here's the site for Alameda County: http://acmg.ucdavis.edu/


I hope to share some pictures from our garden and what we produce!


What are your gardening plans for the year?  What plants have you had good luck or bad luck with?

Weekend Plans: Thrift Store Hunting

On many weekends, I find myself hitting the local thrift stores in Tracy or Livermore.  I do a lot of shopping there for my step-daughter, since she goes through clothes so quickly, and for myself when I need a new pair of jeans or top and can't bear to spend department store prices.  I've had great luck at thrift stores finding stylish, hardly-worn clothing for really cheap.

I especially love the Buena Vidas' half price sale on Saturdays.  Buena Vidas is a thrift store in Livermore that benefits a local youth ranch.  They have a wide array of items and the Saturday prices can't be beat.  (They also offer a voucher program for those who can't afford clothing or other necessities - see their website for details.) I'm already planning to go this weekend for my latest crafty project. 

Which local thrift stores are your favorites?

Bargain Alert: Saturday Brunch Buffet for Two at the First Street Ale House for $13

This deal from Living Social is especially timely, considering First Street Ale House was just voted the best restaurant in Livermore by Mountain Housers, in a poll conducted by MountainHouseLiving.com.

For the next two days, you can purchase a voucher for $13, good for two Saturday brunch buffets, including $6 toward drinks, at the First Street Ale House.

Get yours here!

Bargain Alert: Free Frozen Yogurt (and Toppings) at Yogurtland Today 2/6/12

I love froyo and I especially love free stuff.  And today is the best Monday ever, because you can get Free Frozen Yogurt (plus toppings!) at Yogurtland from 4:00 PM to 7:00 PM (valid at participating locations only).  Unfortunately, our nearest location is in Dublin, but I'll probably stop on my way home!

Here's their website, to find locations, etc., but it was running pretty slowly when I tried to access it: www.yogurt-land.com

Call for Artists' Submissions for Tracy Art League Show

The Tracy Art League is calling for submissions from Northern California artists for their 21st annual Expressions! juried art show.  The selected works will be displayed in the Tracy Community Center and will be available for viewing by the public February 18th and 19th and 20th through the 24th.  Some pieces will then also be displayed in the gallery at The Grand Theater.

Submissions will be accepted at the community center on February 10th and 11th. 

See the article from the Tracy Press for additional details.

Something Fun for Little Ones: Read a Book With a Dog!

I love this idea because I feel like all kids should be able to spend time with a dog.  There are countless stories and studies that show that dogs can elevate your mood and your life.  

On Saturdays in Feb, from 2:00 to 4:00, little ones can come and read a story to a trained therapy dog (meaning they'll be on their best behavior).  So, this is a great chance for kids to practice reading and have a meaningful connection with a dog, especially if they don't have one of their own.

Here's the link from the Mountain House Forum.

And you can visit the Stockton-San Joaquin Library site here: http://www.stockton.lib.ca.us

Something Fun for Teens and Tweens: Make Valentine's Day Crafts - Feb 9

On Thursday, February 9th at 4:30 PM, kids aged 10 and up can head to the Mountain House Library to make Valentine's Day cards and crafts for their friends and family. Supplies will be provided.

Check out the post on the Mountain House Forum.

And you can also visit the Stockton-San Joaquin Library website: http://www.stockton.lib.ca.us

Bargain Alert: Half Price Vouchers for Blue Nile

If you're looking for something sparkly for your Valentine (or yourself), this is just the ticket.  For the next week, you can purchase either a $50 voucher worth $100, or a $100 voucher worth $200 to spend at BlueNile.com from Living Social.


Go here to get this deal.


And check out http://www.bluenile.com/ to find what you're going to get!

This Weekend Around The Altamont Pass (Shoestring Edition)

Need plans for this weekend and don't want to spend a whole lot of dough?  Here's just a short list of fun and cheap things to do in The Altamont Pass Area:

Friday

• Free Family Movie Night at Bethany School in Mountain House (donations accepted)

Saturday

•  The Livermore Rummage Sale 
• Build-a-saurus event at Lowes (kids can build and take a wooden dinosaur for free.  Must RSVP.)

All Weekend

• $2 off Popcorn at Regal Cinemas with this mobile coupon. (Don't forget your discounted tickets to Man on a Ledge or One for the Money.  Check out this post.)
• Redbox is giving away discounts for answering trivia questions correctly
• Bare Escentuals is giving a way a free sample of Active Cell Renewal.  N.P.N. Head to the Stoneridge Location.
• And don't forget the free lip gloss from Victoria's Secret with any purchase (with the coupon).

Thanks to Hip2Save for most of this fab info.  Head on over here for much more, including lots of discounts for shopping.

Bargain Alert: For the Grown Ups - 2 Craft-Beer Flight Paddles at Tap 25 for $6

I had noticed Tap 25 last week on Yelp and it had really good reviews.  It's a newer place, in the charming Blacksmith Square (corner of Livermore Ave and Railroad).  They have 25 rotating taps of American craft beers (hence the name) and I hear the food is good, too. 

This weekend, for $6, you can get a voucher for two Craft-Beer Flight Paddles (regularly $12) from Living Social.  I'm not quite sure what a paddle is, but I'm anxious to find out. 

Get yours here. 

(This is my link - which will give me a promotion.  Remember you can do this, too.  If you want to go the site directly, go to www.livingsocial.com and select Walnut Creek/Contra Costa)

Also remember that you can't use your voucher until the day after you purchase it.  (Too bad, I definitely could have used a beer tonight.  It's been a long week.)

Here's Tap 25's website, as well: http://www.taptwentyfive.com/

And of course, always enjoy your adult beverages safely and responsibly.

Bargain Alert: Weekend Movie Plans - Discounted Tickets to Man on a Ledge and One for the Money

Your weekend movie plans are set.  Right now you can get discounted movie tickets to two new movies: Man on a Ledge and One for the Money.

Man on a Ledge looked really exciting when I saw the trailer for it a few weeks ago, and currently, Living Social is selling a voucher for 2 movie tickets to see it for $12.  Tickets are purchased through Fandango.com and the voucher covers up to $13 per ticket ($26 total).  Get the deal here.

Don't forget that Living Social will refund your purchase if three of your friends buy it from your referral link!

And Groupon is offering a deal to see One for the Money for the same price ($6 tickets, but you can buy these individually). This one goes through a site called Hollywood Movie Money that I'm not familiar with, but is probably similar to Fandango. I've heard this movie is based a really funny book series, so it might be a fun one to check out, too.  You can get that deal here.

I think this is a great price for a night out, even though you can get movie tickets for not much more than this.  But if you were going to see these movies anyway, why not save a couple of bucks.

Bargain Alert: $16 for a Photo Shoot and 8 Portrait Sheets at The Picture People from Groupon

For the next two days, you can get a Groupon for a photo shoot and 8 portrait sheets from The Picture People for $16.  It's a $144 value, so that's a great deal!  The nearest location that you can redeem this Groupon is at the Stoneridge Mall in Pleasanton, but it's also valid at the Concord and San Mateo locations.

The only downside, to me, is that you can only select one image for all of the printed portrait sheets, which include one 10" x 13", one 8"x 10", four 5"x7"s, ten 4"x6"s and 16 wallets.  But this is perfect if you've been looking for a cheap way to get the first portrait of your little one to send out to the whole family, or if you just need that one great shot for the new family portrait. 

I've never used The Picture People, but I've seen pictures from others who have, and they're always adorable.  I'm tempted to get this deal, but I know I'd want all of the images on a disc as well, and that can be pretty pricey ($150 for the high resolution images on a disc).  But they also have a View & Share CD for $35, which include all of the images in a lower resolution, so that you can share the images online with friends and family.

Get the Groupon here.

Something Fun: Valentines Day

This February 14th will be our third Valentines Day in Mountain House.  I honestly can't remember the first, and I only remember last year because of a really bad dining experience.  I won't mention the restaurant here, but it was a place in downtown Tracy, and I'm sure if you're really keen, you can find my Yelp review of the place.

So, because of that, I wanted this year to be nice.  Nothing too over the top, but still a great time.  We've decided to try out a new "gourmet Mexican" restaurant in Livermore, El Sacromonte.  It's gotten good reviews on Yelp.  So, even though I'm a food wimp and a little scared of trying something so different (check out their menu - this is no taqueria), I'm going to have an open mind. 

What are your favorite places nearby for a nice dinner out?  Please post your responses in the comments below.  Thanks!

Bargain Alert: $20 to Spend at The Body Shop for $10

Living Social is selling $20 vouchers for The Body Shop for $10.  The only problem is you'll have to travel a little further from home if you want to use this deal.  The closest Shop is in Modesto at the Vintage Faire Mall.  (Unfortunately, they're not valid online.)   But it might make a nice Valentines Day gift for someone you know.

Get the deal here.

Bargain Alert: Free Kindle Edition of Quick & Easy Family Dinners Cookbook

Here's something fun you can get for free: a Kindle edition cookbook: Quick & Easy Family Dinners.  Don't worry if you don't have a kindle, you just need the kindle reader app, which you can download on to your computer, your ipad or smart phone.  I'm not sure how promising the recipes are, but since it's free, it's probably worth a glance. 

Let us know if you try out any of the recipes.

Bargain Alert: $10 for $20 to spend on your favorite sports team's gear

I'm a fan!  Today on Living Social, you can get a $20 voucher for $10 to Fanatics.com to spend on sports memorabilia.  They have stuff from all types of sports, including college.  Someone in the neighborhood may be getting a USC flag to fly this football season.

Get the deal here.

Note, this link gives me a promotion if enough people also purchase it.  You can do the same after you purchase yours.

Bargain Alert: Half off Dog Grooming Services in Livermore ($15 for $30)

If you're a dog lover like me, you might like this deal from a great deal site that I just learned about called LocalGruv.  Today you can purchase a $30 voucher for $15 for Dog Grooming Services at The Sudsy Dog on 2nd Street in Livermore.  You have a few days to purchase this deal, and a portion of the money will go to the East Bay SPCA.  What can be better?

Go here: http://localgruv.com/

I had to share this pic from the site.  It's too much.

Thanks to Jeff from the Mountain House Forum for letting me know about this one.

Good Cause: Mountain House and Tracy Fire Department Crab Feed - Feb 17

Don't tell my significant other, but I love firefighters.  Not just because they're brave and handsome... well, yeah, basically because they're brave and handsome.  (I know that there are female firefighters, who are equally brave and beautiful - you go girls!) And we need them in our community to protect us from all sorts of bad things.  So, if you can, please attend the Mountain House Fire and Tracy Fire Crab Feed on February 17th, 2012 from 6:00 PM to 12:00 AM at the Portuguese Hall in Tracy. Tickets are $40, with all the proceeds going back to the community.  And they'll also have Tri Tip if, like me, you have an aversion to all things from the ocean.

You can get tickets by calling Fire Station 91 at (209) 831-4710, or Oscar Sharp on his cell at (209) 321-1977, or Jeff Brown on his cell at (209) 914-0377. I hear they're going fast!

Thanks to the post by Oscar on the Mountain House Forum for this info.  There's also a Facebook event page here.

On a serious note, I really appreciate firefighters for all that they do.  It's a rare person who will risk his or her life to save another, and they do it without hesitation, just because it's their job and the right thing to do.  My grandfather was a member of his volunteer fire company for over 50 years. He was very proud of that, as we still are.  Please support our local firefighters in any way that you can.

Something Fun: Rockin' Jump in Dublin

When I heard about House of Air in San Francisco, I really wanted to go, but it seemed so far to travel to just jump on some trampolines.  But guess what!  There's a trampoline park in Dublin, called Rockin' Jump.

http://www.rockinjump.com/

Check out the calendar for different events.  For the grown ups, it looks like Rockin' Saturdays is the best deal.  From 9:00 PM to Midnight, you can jump for $15, and they'll give you a free slice of pizza and a water bottle.  Sounds like a good time to me!

Also for the grown ups, their adult dodge ball league starts February 13th. 

Of course, just about every day, they have times for all ages to jump.  But they also have a special time dedicated to tots and parents on Tuesdays and Wednesdays at 10:00 AM.

Definitely go to their website for more info.  You'll have to sign waivers, and possibly make reservations. 

Bargain Alert and Good Cause: We Give Books

This is totally awesome. 

We Give Books is a website that allows you to read children's books for free online with your little ones.  And for each book that you read, they donate a book to a literary cause (choose from one of their options) so that kids who wouldn't otherwise have access to books can get them.  There is no downside.  Please do this.

http://www.wegivebooks.org/

Bargain Alert: Free Food and Discounts from Panda Express

Thank you, again, to Hip2Save for this gem.  On January 23rd, Panda Express is giving away FREE Firecracker Chicken Breast - no purchase necessary.  Then on January 24th through February 14th, they're giving away any free entree (excluding shrimp) with the purchase of a 2-entree plate, or you can get 10% off any purchase. 

You'll have to bring the coupons, though, available here.

Bargain Alert: Fun Free In-Store Event at Michaels on Saturday

Thanks to my fav savings blog www.hip2save.com, I found out about this cute event for the little princess(es) in your life. At the Fancy Nancy: Make-it, Take-it class in stores on Saturday Jan 21st 10:00 AM-Noon, kids can make their own tiara and hear a story.

Here's the store's website.  You'll have to click the little arrow on the right side of the page under store events to see the Fancy Nancy event. 

It looks like they have a lot of these in-store events throughout the month that appeal to all different ages.

Bargain Alert: Groupon for Casa Flores in Tracy

I'm loving all of the Groupons that are available in our area lately (with the exception of the Jamba Juice Groupon - see the updated post about that).  And here's another one I just learned about (and bought!)

For $10, you get $20 to spend on food and drinks at Casa Flores Mexican Restaurant.  It's valid at 8 locations, including the one on Tracy Blvd in Tracy (but not the ones in Manteca or Modesto, in case you're planning to go there).  I haven't been to Casa Flores before, but with a 50% discount, I'm definitely going to give it a try.

Go here to get all the details and to purchase the Groupon.

Zumba in Mountain House

If you're like me and love Zumba, or if you haven't tried it but are looking for a fun way to get your exercise in, you should check out the Zumba classes in Mountain House.  Classes are held Tuesdays and Thursdays from 7:00-8:00 PM in the gym at Wicklund school and they're $3 each or $20 for an 8 class punch card.

The proceeds from the classes benefit all three schools in Mountain House.  So you're getting fit, at a great price, and our schools benefit. 

It's only fitting that this event is very family oriented, being in Mountain House.  Kids come along and hang out while their parents Zumba, or if they're brave enough, they can join-in and Zumba, too!  I really think this is a great alternative to people who don't feel like they can pay for a gym membership (since you only have to pay when you go), especially if they also would have to pay for a sitter or kid care at the gym every time they wanted to work out.

My step-daughter has been looking forward to going back and participating next time (she didn't want to last time, although she regretted it).  Unfortunately, I don't usually get home early enough, and I haven't yet convinced her dad to take her... but I'm getting close!

Here's a map to the school if you're not familiar with the area.

Good Cause: Eating at Baja Fresh Today Benefits the Bethany School Foundation

Thanks to the Mountain House Wiki Community Events Page for letting me know about this event just in time.

If you eat at the Baja Fresh at 1875 W. 11th Street in Tracy today, Thursday, Jan 19th, between 2:00 and 9:00 PM, and you present this flier, a portion of the proceeds will go to the Bethany School Foundation.

Bethany School is an Elementary through Middle School in Mountain House.  It's currently the only middle school in Mountain House, and because of this, the Foundation benefits many of the school-aged kids in Mountain House. 

Here's a link to the Bethany School Foundation: http://www.bethanyschoolfoundation.org/

Bargain Alert: Groupon for Qdoba Mexican Grill is Back Up!

In case you missed it last time, I just noticed that the Groupon for Qdoba Mexican Grill in Tracy is back up: $7 for a $14 voucher.  You can purchase it through tomorrow.  

I still haven't used mine, but let me know if you've been there and how you liked it.

You can get the Groupon here.

Bargain Alert: Groupon for 2 Medium Whirl'ns Frozen Yogurts with 2 Toppings Each for $5 (Update: Not Available in our Area)

Here's another Groupon that we can use close to home!  I just received an email from Groupon apologizing because this isn't available at Jamba Juices in our area and they'll be issuing refunds to those who purchased it.  Sorry about that!


For $5 you can get two Medium Whirl'ns Frozen Yogurts with two toppings each from Jamba Juice.  I didn't know that Jamba Juice had started selling froyo.  But since my step-daughter and I love frozen yogurt, we'll definitely be getting this one.

Get the Groupon here.

Bargain Alert: Livermore Rummage Sale January 28th

When I was looking at the LARPD website, I also saw that their monthly rummage sale is on January 28th 8:00 AM to Noon.  I believe they're held monthly on the last Saturday of the month.  I've been to it once and, although it wasn't huge, I would say it was definitely worth a visit, and I'll probably go again soon. You can also rent a space and sell your own stuff.

Here's the flier for January. 

Livermore Area Recreation & Park District's Winter/Spring Programs Catalog is Now Available

Every few months, I look forward to LARPD's new catalog of classes and programs.  It's filled with great activities for kids and adults and they're usually at great prices (or at least cheaper than private lessons and classes).  There are always too many classes that I want to take, so my family and I usually attend one or two per year.
 
There are any kind of classes imaginable, and some you never would have thought of in your wildest dreams.  Last year, my step-daughter took a kid's Zumba class, that she really enjoyed. (I've since discovered that kids can participate in the Zumba classes in Mountain House, but I'll post more on that soon.)  Another fun thing that my sister told me about is the Friday Fun Night, which allows you to drop of your 5- to 10-year-old off at the community center so that you can have a "date night" (or just a break).  It's only $15 for 3 hours and it sounds like a great time for all.

I'm going to look a little deeper to pick out which classes we might take this season.  I'll update you on the ones that I think look the best, and are the best deals.

Find the full catalog here: http://www.larpd.dst.ca.us/brochures/Winter_Spring_2012_Brochure.pdf

And you can find the LARPD website here: http://www.larpd.dst.ca.us/ 

About Mountain House - MountainHouseLiving.com

I love living in Mountain House.  There's something so unique about our neighborhood.  It's quiet, family friendly, and living here reminds me of a simpler time.  There is a really nice website about Mountain House, that includes information on new home construction, home sales and community events.  I recommend you take a peek.  We have really great community events that you can attend, even if you don't already live here, and you may just find yourself loving it so much that you'll want to stay.

http://mountainhouseliving.com/

There's also a great Facebook Page, which will keep you updated on the latest Mountain House News.  Like it here: https://www.facebook.com/MountainHouseCA

Bargain Alert: $20 for Paintball Package for 4 in Livermore

For $20 you can purchase this Trubates deal which is good for a $120 paintball package for 4, including equipment rental, although air and paint are not included.  I thought I'd share this one because it can be used in Livermore, off of Stanley Blvd. 

Taste of Tri-Valley - January 21-29, 2012

The Taste of Tri-Valley is returning soon and the list of the restaurants participating is now available.  This is a great chance to try a restaurant that may have been a little too expensive to go to before, since during this "Restaurant Week," each of the restaurants participating are offering special meals at discounted prices. 

I wanted to try The Restaurant at Wente Vineyards last year during Restaurant Week, but didn't get to. Luckily, they're participating again this year, and I think the lunch they're offering is new, and at a great price ($15).

Here's the event website, which includes the list of all restaurants participating and their prices: http://www.trivalleycvb.com/tasteoftrivalley/

Bargain Alert: Free McDonald's Coffee Through January 15th

More good news for coffee lovers.  I heard on the radio this morning that McDonald's is currently giving away free coffee.  No purchase necessary.   It was hard to find information about this on the web, (I didn't even find anything on the McDonald's website) but I found this article that confirms that they're offering a free small coffee in their San Joaquin County restaurants through Sunday. 

My recollection of the radio ad was that the promotion lasted longer that that, so perhaps they're offering it after January 15th in Alameda County, but don't quote me on that.  I'll update this posting if I find out more.

Taco Night!

Fridays are often taco night in our household.  That's because our favorite taqueria in Tracy, Taqueria Maguey, sells $0.75 tacos on Fridays (and Wednesdays).  Their tacos are on the smaller side, but deliciously filled with quality ingredients.  About 4 will fill me up, and I like to eat a lot of food. They also have other deals the rest of the week, but I love ending my work week with tacos and maybe a chile relleno, if they have any left.

Taqueria Maguey
2242 W. Grant Line Rd.
Tracy, CA 95377http://www.yelp.com/biz/taqueria-maguey-tracy

Bargain Alert: Free Coffee Tasting at Starbucks - Now through Saturday

Head to your local Starbucks now through Saturday, January 14th, and you'll get to sample their different roasts and vote for your favorite.  They also say they'll "send you home with a little something as a thank you." 

Here's all the info: http://roast.starbucks.com/en-us/

Bargain Alert: Free Victoria's Secret Beauty Rush Lip Gloss with Any Purchase

Thanks to Hip2Save.com for letting me know about this deal!  Now through February 2nd, 2012, you will receive a free Beauty Rush Lip Gloss with any purchase in Victoria's Secret stores (but not outlets) with this coupon. 

Cinematic Treasures Series at The Grand

I'm really excited that I just found out about the Cinematic Treasures Series at The Grand Theater in Tracy.   A few times over the next couple of months, The Grand will be showing classic movies at a great price (about $3).  The Birds, The Godfather Trilogy, and a special midnight showing of The Rocky Horror Picture Show are all listed on their calendar.  (Each film is only shown once.) 

http://www.atthegrand.org/calendar/.

Their site is little bit clunky but if you click on an event in the calendar, more information pops up.  And it also appears that you can purchase tickets online for some of the shows.

Check out their other events, too.  There will be a community theater presentation of the musical, Annie, in May, (auditions are today, by the way) which would also be fun to take the kiddies to.

Activities at Sycamore Grove Park

Sycamore Grove Park is one of my favorite places in Livermore.  I love its history and beauty.  If you ever get a chance to take a class about the history of the park and Olivina, I highly recommend it. 

Every month Sycamore Grove park releases a newsletter which includes a number of activities, led by park rangers, who teach you about the habitat and tell stories about the park.  Most are family-friendly and free. 

Here's the link to their newsletter for your enjoyment: http://www.larpd.dst.ca.us/open_space/vw_archives.html

I imagine my sister will make me join her for the Winter Owls program on January 29th, but the Bright Winter Stars program on January 14th looks fun, as well.

LARPD's website is also a great resource for community events and classes in Livermore.  My family and I have taken several classes through their recreation department, including an olive picking and curing class, which is where I learned about Olivina and Sycamore Grove Park.

Bargain Alert: $2 for 5 $1 Vouchers for Blockbuster Express Kiosks - Three Days Left

I found another great Groupon today that I thought I'd share: $2 for 5 $1 vouchers for Blockbuster Express Kiosks.  These are good at all of the Blockbuster Kiosks and blockbuster.com.  You have three days left from today to purchase this.

Here's the link: http://www.groupon.com/deals/blockbuster-express-harrisburg-4?c=dnb&p=2

This information comes from another website/blog that I found recently that I absolutely love, Hip2Save.  I totally recommend it for anyone, not just the super-thrifty.  http://hip2save.com

I suggest that you sign up for their email alerts - they send all the deals to your mailbox daily.

Bargain Alert: Groupon for Qdoba in Tracy - One Day Left

On Groupon right now, you can get a $14 voucher to Qdoba in Tracy for $7.  It's rare for Groupon or any of the other deal sites to have deals so close to home, so I had to post about it.  I bought this one since it's a new restaurant that I'd been wanting to try, and I'll definitely try it if I get a 50% discount.

Here's the link.  You won't be able to purchase it after tomorrow: http://www.groupon.com/deals/qdoba-stockton?c=dnb&p=5

Tracy Half Marathon!

I just found out today about a half marathon taking place in Tracy, right off of Naglee, in May.  I'm really excited because, even though I'm not a very athletic person, I enjoy the challenge of doing a half marathon and I think I'm going to have to sign up. 

I'll post more info as I get it, but for now, here's the link: tracyhalf.com
It's on Sunday, May 20th.  Prices are reasonable for a half marathon - $60 - considering I usually see prices around $100 for halfs.  And it's right in our backyard.

If you've never done a half marathon - or even a 5k, which is also being offered - I really recommend it.  It is a great way to motivate yourself to exercise because, if you've signed up, you know that you'd better train for it, or you will not be happy with yourself.  If you don't do the race, you spent all that money for nothing. If you do the race and quit in the middle because you're too tired, you always feel guilty about it.  And if you do the whole race without training beforehand, you will be in a LOT of pain. 

I did my first half marathon in 2009 and I never thought I could do it.  But I trained (not enough) and I did it, in less time than I expected to, and I was so amazed with myself.  I wish everyone could have that feeling.  My goal for this race will be to beat my personal best time, and that gives me even more reason to train. 

Hope to see you out there training and at the race!

Bargain Alert: Eco Friendly Bathroom and Window Cleaners - Costco

On Saturday, I was at Costco in Tracy, and I saw a great deal for ATTITUDE Certified Eco Friendly Bathroom and Window Cleaners.  It was $2.97 for a spray bottle and 1 gallon refill.  On the shelves next to these bottles was were equal-sized bottles of PineSol, which were $10 each.  So, I couldn't resist - I bought two sets of the bathroom cleaners.  I tested it out on my shower, which picks up a lot of soap scum, and it worked pretty well.  They were almost out of the bathroom cleaners when I was there, but they had plenty of window cleaner left.  I'm not sure if this item is being sold at other stores, or if it's at the same price.

On a side note, I really wish I could buy eco-friendly and organic products all the time, but I just can't afford to.  So, whenever possible, I do, or I buy the most eco-friendly items that I can afford.  Costco is actually a great place for good deals on some green products.  We try to buy their recycled paper towels and toilet paper, as well as some of the Kirkland brand green(er) cleaners.  Prices for these products are often comparable, if not cheaper than their traditional Kirkland brand items.  And even when it ends up being a little bit more, I can justify buying it anyway because it helps me feel better about my impact on the world. 

Life around the Altamont Pass

Life is unique here.  The Altamont Pass area has it's own culture.  It's filled with people with high hopes and long days.  It's close enough to the San Francisco Bay Area that many of us do the commute, several hours each day, to and from the Bay Area.  But it's far enough away to be considered by most, not really part of the Bay Area (I say I live in the East, East Bay).  And it really is a world apart.  My first 27 years growing up in Silicon Valley, I never had seen a camouflage truck driving through the Safeway parking lot.  But it's close enough to common here, that no one really bats an eye. 

I, like many out here, moved here from the Bay Area because of the home prices.  I wanted something REALLY affordable, but nice.  I could have bought a 100-year-old, falling-down fixer-upper, house in downtown San Jose.  But instead I bought a 3-year-old house in beautiful Mountain House, for the same price.  The commute to Mountain View (yes, I work in Mountain View and live in Mountain House) sucks.  But for now, I like my job and I'm not willing to change it.  And I'm not willing to move either.  I've decided I love this area - Livermore, Mountain House, and (sometimes) Tracy*.  It's quiet, quaint, and reminds me of simpler times.  I love the rolling hills, the cows, and that there's room to breathe. 

So, I'm starting this blog for those of us who live here.  One of my constant goals is finding great deals (I am really, really cheap), and I'd love to share those with you.  And I'll share my thoughts and experiences, as well as keep you posted on neat local events.




*Tracy is a great town with tons of charm, but we have to be honest and admit that it has it's faults.  The crime is my biggest complaint, and I must admit that I don't venture to parts of town by myself at night.