Category Archives: Cooking and Entertaining

Frugal & Fun Fort Worth Weekend Events (Aug. 6-8) ~ FREE Outdoor Movie, FREE Fireworks & Family Event, FREE Museum Events, and More Family Fun!

Posted on August 6, 2010 | 4 comments

ABOUT THE FRUGAL & FUN FT. WORTH WEEKEND EDITION ~
Fridays, we post ideas for FREE (or really cheap) weekend entertainment
for you and your family. If you would like to subscribe to our updates,
click here (also FREE!). This weekend’s tips include:     

• FREE Movie in the Park ~ Ferris Bueller’s Day Off
• FREE Concert in the Park ~ Near Southside
• FREE Grapevine Lake Fireworks & Family Fun Event
• FREE Museum Admission and Family Activities
• FREE Cooking Technique Class at Williams Sonoma
• FREE Kids Woodworking Workshop at Home Depot   
 

:: FREE ~ Downtown Fort Worth Outdoor Movie Event
    Featuring, Ferris Bueller’s Day Off  (PG)
    Saturday ~ August 7, 2010       

           

Bring picnic snacks, a blanket or lawn chairs and enjoy Ferris Bueller’s
Day OFF on the big screen, under the stars at the recently renovated &
beautiful Burnett Park in Downtown Fort Worth (the park with the
huge cutout silhouette sculpture of the man holding a briefcase).    

P.S. Don’t let the heat scare you away!  The Downtown Fort Worth 
event team has ordered 4 turbo misters to cool things down!    

Details, details
What: For details about the movie in the park event, go here. For 
    details about the newly renovated Burnett park,  click here.
Where: Burnett Park ~ 7th St. Downtown. Click here for  
   parking options.
When: Saturday, August 7, 2010 ~Movie begins at 8:30 PM.
Cost: FREE       

::   

:: FREE Outdoor Concert Event ~ First Friday On The Green
    Friday, August 6, 2010     

                                        

Enjoy a fun evening with your family and friends with First Friday on
the Green, a FREE monthly live music series rolled out by Fort Worth
South. Bring your blankets and chairs (and even Fido if you want), and
enjoy an evening of live music from great bands in a relaxing setting.    

Hungry? Enjoy one of the neighborhood’s fantastic restaurants beforehand
or take in Chadra Mezza & Grill which will be selling their tasty fare at the
event. No outside coolers or food please.    

Details, Details
What: Fort Worth South, Inc. (FWSI) is the non-profit org behind the
    revitalization (and suburban greatness) of the Near Southside FW.
    Get more info here.
When: Friday, August 6, 2010 ~ 7:00PM
Where: Head to Magnolia Green Park ~ 1100 Block of Lipscomb,
    between Magnolia and Rosedale (across the street from the Village
    Homes row houses). Find a map here.
Cost: In lieu of admission (which is FREE), you are encouraged to make a
    donation to Southside Church of Christ who will be accepting donations
     for school supplies.    

     

::    

:: FREE City of Grapevine Firework Fridays & Summer Blast
    Family Event at the Gaylord Texan
    Friday, August 6, 2010 (and each Friday through Labor Day)

   

Friday nights in Grapevine will sparkle with spectacular firework shows each
Friday, now through Labor day.  If you want to add some extra fun to your
family evening, plan to view the fireworks from the Gaylord Texan Hotel.    

Led by the majestic Queen of Hearts, the cast of characters from Alice’s
Adventures in Wonderland parade through the Gaylord hotel atrium to
the roof of the resort garage to experience the fireworks display and family
fun & games.   

Details, details
What: This event is for all ages and will have a DJ, games for kids, and
   food and beverages for purchase. For more information about the fireworks 
   show, click here. For more details about the Gaylord Texan family
   event, go here.
When: Friday, August 6, 2010
    8:30-10:00PM  Family-friendly parade, games and events
    9:30PM  Fireworks over Lake Grapevine
Where: Parade starts in the Lone Star Atrium at the Gaylord Texan
    Resort.  View the fireworks on level 5 of the Resort Garage.  
    Click here for directions to the Gaylord Texan Resort.
    Fireworks can also be viewed from any Grapevine lake park at 9:30PM.
    Find a map of viewing sites around Grapevine Lake here.
Cost: FREE for both local and hotel guests to attend.     

  

 ::   

:: Enjoy a FREE Family Fun day at the Amon Carter Museum!
    Sunday, February 8, 2010   

         Amon Carter tours      

The Amon Carter museum, a local jewel of a spot is offering a fun afternoon
for the whole family with their program, International Adventure. Get
creative with FREE art-making and other fun activities for kids while
learning about international art on display in the galleries.     

Special performances, storytime and refreshments round out the
afternoon of exciting activities the family can enjoy.   

Details, details
When:  Sunday, August 8, 2010 ~ 1:00PM to 4:00PM
Where:  Amon Carter Museum, 3501 Camp Bowie Boulevard. 
    Get directions and parking details by clicking here.
Cost: Entrance to this event and Amon Carter’s Museum is
    always FREE (but donations are appreciated)!     

::            

:: Bank of America Cardholders: Take advantage of FREE
    ADMISSION to the Fort Worth Museum of Science & History
    Saturday and Sunday, August 6 & 7, 2010    

   https://frugalinfortworth.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/01/fort-worth-science-history-museum.jpg    

Bank of America’s 2010 national program, Museums On Us offers FREE
admission, the first full weekend of every month, to 120 participating
museums throughout the U.S.     

This FREE Admission program takes place this weekend (August 6th & 7th)
in Fort Worth at the Fort Worth Museum of Science and History.     

Details, details
What: To find out more about Bank of America’s Museums On Us
    program, go here. To learn more about The Fort Worth Museum of
    Science & History, click here.
How: Show a photo ID and any Bank of America Card to get FREE admission
    for each Bank of America Card Holder.
Where: The Fort Worth Science & History Museum, 1600 Gendy St.
    (corner of Montgomery and Burnett Tandy). Click here for directions.
When: Saturday and Sunday, August 6 and 7 10:00AM to 5:00PM
Cost: FREE to Bank of America Cardholders (Reg: $14 Adults, $10 Children)     

Other DFW Museums With FREE Admission This Weekend:     

     

::    

:: Take an “Art-Full” Trek to Dallas to the Nasher Sculpture
    Center’s First Saturdays Family Fun Day.
    Saturday, August 7, 2010    

                Nasher Sculpture Center, First Saturdays    

The Nasher Sculpture Center and Target present First Saturdays
for families. Held the first Saturday of every month, this special
event features FREE admission and a fun schedule of activities for
the kids.     

Details, details
What: For details, including complete schedule, click here.
When: Saturday August 6, 2010 ~ 10:00AM to 2:00PM
Where: For directions to Nasher Sculpture Center, click here.
Cost: FREE    

    

::    

:: Take a FREE Cooking Technique Class at Williams-Sonoma
    Saturday and Sunday, August 7-8, 2010   

                                                     

Try something new in the kitchen!
Williams Sonoma’s technique class is teaching the Sous Vide method of
cooking, popular with chefs around the world. This week’s lesson will
demonstrate the basics of this technique ~ foods cooked in a vacuum
with precise temperature controls, producing tender succulent foods
without overcooking.   

Note: You’ll want to call to reserve your spot since class size is limited.    

Details, details
What: For more information, click here.
When: Saturday and Sunday, August 7-8 ~ Note: 1 hour class times
    vary from store to store, so be sure to call for exact times & date.
Where: Click here to find a Williams Sonoma store near you.
Cost: FREE! Be sure to call your local store to RSVP.   

::    

:: FREE ~ Home Depot ~ Build. Learn. Create. Kids Workshop
    Saturday, August 7, 2010     

                                      

This Saturday, bring your child to Home Depot’s Kids Workshop to help
them learn a new woodworking skill and make a FREE School Bus Pencil
Organizer  to take home.   

Each Kids Workshop participant will receive a kid-sized orange apron
(similar to a Home Depot associate apron) and an achievement pin. All
workshops are free, but you should probably show up early to insure you
have a kit for your little ones.   

Details, details
What: For ages 5-12. Get more information about the workshop, here.
When: Saturday, August 7 ~ 9:00AM- noon
Where: Home Depot Home Improvement Stores
    To find a participating location, click here.
Cost: FREE!    

::    

I hope you and your family have a wonderful weekend!  :)    

     

  

Enjoy and Share! :)   

  

  

•  Sharon Young Ladies Designer Clothes Warehouse Sale ~ August 5-7 

• 50-75% Off Kids Clothes & Shoes: BACK TO SCHOOL Sale
At Amazon ~ Limited Time.

• 5 Things I Learned While on The Great Vanilla Hunt.  

    

   


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Posted in Cooking and Entertaining, Entertainment, Fort Worth, TX, FREE, Frugal Fun in Fort Worth (Cheap/Free Entertainment Ideas), Stretch your Dollar!, Travel & Hotel Deals

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Frugal & Fun Fort Worth Weekend Events (July 16-18 Edition) ~ FREE Bluegrass Concert, FREE Stargazing Event, FREE Cake Decorating Class & More!

Posted on July 16, 2010 | Leave a comment

ABOUT THE FRUGAL & FUN FORT WORTH WEEKEND EDITION ~
Fridays, we post ideas for FREE (or almost free) weekend entertainment
for you and your family. This weekend’s tips include:   

• FREE Family Friendly Outdoor Concerts
      in Southlake & Keller ~ Beatles to Bluegrass
• FREE Stargazing Party ~ Science & History Museum
• FREE Fondant Cake Decorating Class at Michael’s
• FREE Cooking Techniques Class at Williams-Sonoma
• FREE Indoor Kidgits Club Carnival at NE Mall   


::  Keller Concert in the Park ~ Featuring, Me and My Monkey
    (Beatles Tribute band) 
    Saturday, July 17, 2010  

                        

Relax under the big Texas sky, watch the sunset, and listen to the
retro tunes of Me and My Monkey, a fantastic Beatles Tribute Band. There
will be lots of fun for the kids too, including bounce houses, FREE games,
door prizes from the Fort Worth Zoo, Six Flags and more!  

Bring your blanket, lawn chair, or picnic and enjoy a fun night with
the family.  

Details, details
What: For more information about Keller’s concert in the park series,
    click here. For more on Me and My Monkey, click here 
When: Saturday, July 17, 2010, 8:00 PM to 10:00 PM
Where:  Bear Creek Park in Keller, 400 Bear Creek Parkway
Cost: FREE!   

::   

    

:: FREE Bluegrass Outdoor Concert ~ Southlake Town Square
    Saturday, July 17, 2010   

   

Spend Saturday evenings this summer at Southlake Town Square listening
to some of the area’s greatest talents. This week’s line-up features
accomplished Blue Grass group, White House Harmony.                 

Bring your own blanket and lawn chairs for a fun and relaxing evening
with your family. You’ll be treated to an entertaining show
filled with the purest of harmony vocals, mountain clogging and smooth
blue grass sound. Light refreshments will be sold (but alcoholic
beverages and glass containers are not allowed).       

Details, Details
What: For more about White House Harmony, click here. 
   Learn more about the Southlake Summer Music series, here.
When: Saturday, July 17, 2010, 7:30 PM to 8:30 PM
Where: Southlake Town Square – Rustin Pavilion
    Main St. @ Southlake Blvd. (F.M. 1709)
Cost: FREE!   

::     

:: FREE ~ Star Gazing Party at the Noble Planetarium
    (at the Fort Worth Science & History Museum)
    Saturday, July 17, 2010   

   

Join the Noble Planetarium staff for their FREE Star Gazing party Saturday
night. You will find plenty of telescopes for viewing and lots of experts
available to help you and your family navigate your way through
the skies.   

Details, details
What: For more information, click here.
When: Saturday, July 17  ~ begins at dusk (weather permitting)
    until 10:30PM
Where: In the parking lot, just south of the Science & History Museum
   at the corner of Montgomery and Harley. Click here for directions.
Cost: FREE   

P.S. Noble Planetarium recommends a wonderful & FREE resource for star
gazing from the comfort of your backyard. If you would like a fun way to
navigate the night sky just go here: berkeley.edu/starclock/skywheel.html  

   

::   

::  FREE ~ Michael’s Arts & Crafts ~ Cake Decorating Class
    Saturday, July 17, 2010        

  

If you want to learn a fun and easy way to decorate cakes, be sure and
attend the FREE Wilton Fondant Class at your local Michael’s store.  You’ll
have the chance to familiarize yourself with this creative cake techinique
and get a chance to sample some delicious cake treats, too.             

Details, details
What: For more information, click here.
When: Saturday, July 17, 2010  ~ 1:00-3:00PM
Where: All Michael’s Craft Stores. Go here to find a store near you.
Cost: FREE!              

::    

::  Take a FREE Cooking Technique Class at Williams-Sonoma
    Saturday and Sunday, July 17-18, 2010        

                                        

Try something new in the kitchen!
It’s a perfect time to learn new cooking techniques with summer sauces
and salsas that add color and flavor to your summer table. This week’s
lesson at Williams-Sonoma will demonstrate how to jazz up grilled meats,
vegetables, and even ice cream (mmmm!).  You’ll get an opportunity
to try delicious samples, too!        

Note: You’ll want to call to reserve your spot since class size is limited.                  

Details, details
What: For more information, click here.
When: Saturday & Sunday, July 17-18 ~ Note: 1 hour class times vary
    from store to store, so be sure to call for exact times & date.
Where: Click here to find a Williams Sonoma store near you. 
Cost: FREE! Be sure to call your local store to RSVP.  

::  

:: Simon Kidgits Club, Indoor Carnival at NE Mall in Hurst
    Saturday, July 17, 2010   

                                                 

Simon Kidgits Club Indoor carnival is a great spot to beat the heat with
the kids.  Featuring live entertainment, face painters, balloon artists,
Bubbles the Clown, lots of carnival games and more.  

Details, details
What: For more information, about Kidgits and this event, click here.
When: Saturday, July 17 ~ 1:00PM-4:00PM
Where: NE Mall in the Center Court,
    Located at Highway 121/183 and Loop 820 N in Hurst.
Cost: Carnival is FREE with $5 Annual Kidgits Membership Fee.  

   

Enjoy and Share! :)  

  

   

Want to keep up with fresh ways to save money
and button down the family finances?    

Subscribe to Frugal in Fort Worth now. It’s FREE!    

Did you find these savings tips helpful? Please let us know in the
comments section or forward this site to others!    

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Leave a comment

Posted in Cooking and Entertaining, Entertainment, Fort Worth, TX, FREE, Frugal Fun in Fort Worth (Cheap/Free Entertainment Ideas), Keller, TX, Stretch your Dollar!

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Frugal & Fun Fort Worth Weekend Events (July 9-11 Edition) ~ FREE Rhett Butler Guitar Concert, FREE Decor & Cooking Classes, FREE Kids Events & More!

Posted on July 9, 2010 | 3 comments

ABOUT THE FRUGAL & FUN FT. WORTH WEEKEND EDITION ~
Fridays, we post ideas for FREE (or almost free) weekend entertainment
for you and your family. If you would like to subscribe to our updates,
click here (also FREE!). This weekend’s tips include:   

• FREE Outdoor Concert at Southlake Square
• Parker County Peach Festival in Weatherford
• FREE Pottery Barn Home Decorating Class
• FREE Cooking Technique Class at Williams-Sonoma
• FREE Thomas the Train Playdate Fun for Kids
• FREE Woodworking Craft Class for Kids at Lowes    

    

:: FREE Outdoor Concert Event ~ Southlake
    Saturday, July 10, 2010                      

                 

Spend Saturday evenings this summer at Southlake Town Square listening
to some of the area’s greatest talents. This week’s line-up features the
music of gifted jazz guitarist, Rhett Butler, and his band.               

Bring your own blanket and lawn chairs for a fun and relaxing evening
with your family. You’ll be treated to an amazing evening of jaw-dropping
guitar and shimmering melodies. Light refreshments will be sold (but
alcoholic beverages and glass containers are not allowed).                     

Details, Details
What: For more about Rhett Butler, click here. Learn more about
    the Southlake Town Square Summer Music series, here.
When: Saturday, July 10, 2010, 7:30 PM to 8:30 PM
Where: Southlake Town Square – Rustin Pavilion
    Main St. @ Southlake Blvd. (F.M. 1709)
Cost: FREE!                      

::     

    

:: Parker County/Weatherford Peach Festival
    Saturday, July 10, 2010   

                         

The Parker County Peach Festival, hosted in Weatherford Texas, is a
local tradition that has been fun for families for many years. With over
200 arts and crafts booths, food, and activities for the kiddos, this is a great
spot for the whole family to have some fun. You will have the opportunity
to sample all kinds of delectable peach goodies too, like peach cobbler,
peach ice cream, peach jam, and the list goes on!  

Details, Details
What: Get more info about the Parker County Peach festival, here.
When: Saturday, July 10, 2010 ~ 8:00AM to 5:00PM
Where: Historic Downtown Weatherford. Click here for directions.
Cost: $5.00 for adults and children 12 and under are FREE!  

   

::  

:: Learn New Decor Tips at a FREE Pottery Barn Decorating Class
    Saturday, July 10, 2010       

                            

Get new ideas for freshening up your living space with frames!     
Join Pottery Barn for a fun in-store class, where they will share helpful
tips for creating a beautiful picture frame memories wall.  This week’s
demonstrations will teach the art of using existing picture frames, as well
as selecting and arranging picture frames to create an eye-catching display.   

Details, details
What: For more information, click here.
When: Demonstrations take place all day, Saturday, July 10th.
Where: Click here to find a Pottery Barn store near you.
Cost: FREE!        

::  

   

::  Take a FREE Cooking Technique Class at Williams-Sonoma
    Saturday and Sunday, July 10-11, 2010      

                                  

Learn a new cooking technique!
Summer time is a perfect time to learn new cooking techniques with
fresh summer fruits, vegetables, and herbs. This week’s lesson at Williams-
Sonoma will demonstrate classic preparations along with how to use
farmers’ market purchases in a fresh new way.  You’ll get an opportunity
to try delicious samples, too (my mouth is already watering)!      

Note: You’ll want to call to reserve your spot since class size is limited.                

Details, details
What: For more information, click here.
When: Saturday & Sunday, July 10-11~ Note: 1 hour class times vary
    from store to store, so be sure to call for exact times & date.
Where: Click here to find a Williams Sonoma store near you. 
Cost: FREE! Be sure to call your local store to RSVP.
     

::    

:: FREE Thomas the Train & Friends Playdate Event
    Saturday, July 10, 2010   
  

This Saturday, bring your child to the Thomas & Friends Playdate at
your local Toys R Us.  There will be a story time, games, crafts, and more!                 

Details, details
What: For more information, click here.
When: Saturday, July 10, 2010 ~ 11:00AM-1:00PM
Where: All Toys R Us Locations . Click here to find a location.
Cost: FREE!          

::  

:: FREE Lowes Build and Grow Clinic: Make a Ball & Cup Game
    Saturday, July 10, 2010  

                                   

This Saturday, bring your child to a Lowe’s Build and Grow Clinic to
help them learn a new woodworking skill and make a FREE project to
take home.          

All workshops are FREE, but you should probably show up early to insure
you have a kit for your little ones.  

Details, details
What: For more information and to register, click here.
When: Saturday, July 10, 2010 ~ 10:00-11:00AM
Where: Lowes Home Improvement Stores
    To find a participating location, click here.
Cost: FREE  

   

::  

Have a wonderful weekend!  

   

Enjoy and Share! :)   

    


  

  

Want to keep up with fresh ways to save money
and button down the family finances?   

Subscribe to Frugal in Fort Worth now. It’s FREE!   

Did you find these savings tips helpful? Please let us know in the
comments section or forward this site to others!   

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Posted in Cooking and Entertaining, Entertainment, Fort Worth, TX, FREE, Frugal Fun in Fort Worth (Cheap/Free Entertainment Ideas), Home and Garden, Stretch your Dollar!

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FRUGAL ALERT: Half Price Bookstore 50% OFF (and More) Printable Coupons!

Posted on July 1, 2010 | 1 comment

                                     

I have two favorite spots for getting bargain books, Amazon.com
for their great daily discounts & seemingly unending selection and
Half Price Books for their basement prices and evolving collection (it is
like a new treasure hunt every time I visit)!  

If you are like me and have an ongoing “wish list” of book titles you’d like
to read, you just might want to use these printable coupons from
Half Price Books (good July 12-18).  

The coupons offer up to 50% OFF extra savings and change daily:   

  • 40% OFF one single item – July 12-13
  • 30% OFF one single item – July 14 – 15
  • 20% OFF one single item – July 16 – 17
  • 50% OFF one single item –  July 18

Details, details
What: Click here to print your weeks worth of Half Price Books
    coupons. Limit one coupon per customer per visit.
When: Coupon discounts are different each day and  are
    valid July 12-18.
Where:  Find a Half Price Books Store near you, here.  

    

   

                                                      

A Special Savings Tip For My Teacher and Librarian Friends
Did you know that teachers, librarians, and other educators can get
a year-round 10% discount on everything at Half Price Books? Just
fill out an Educator Discount application form at any Half Price
Books store. Click here for more info.  

Please be sure to pass this along to anyone you know who might benefit.  

Enjoy & Share! :)   

   

   

  

• Guide to FREE Fort Worth & Dallas, Fourth Of
July Celebrations & July 4th Fireworks Shows   

•  Cheapest Prices on Magazine Renewals, up to 90% OFF!  

• FREE Monthly Jazz Series in Fort Worth   

   

  

Want to keep up with fresh ways to save money
and button down the family finances?  

Subscribe to Frugal in Fort Worth now. It’s FREE!    

Did you find these savings tips helpful? Please let us know in the
comments section or forward this site to others!   

Bookmark and Share  

 

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Posted in Bible Study Aids, Books and Magazines, Cooking and Entertaining, Fort Worth, TX, Home and Garden, School and Office Supplies, Stretch your Dollar!

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Grand Opening, Fort Worth Kroger Fresh Fare Store ~ 10 Reasons You’ll Want to Visit (Hint: FREEBIES!)

Posted on June 24, 2010 | 4 comments

I had the opportunity to get a sneak preview of the new Kroger Fresh Fare Store before the doors opened to the public, and *wow* I was impressed!  Following is a rundown of my visit, along with a few pics that hopefully capture a slice of the store for you  ~ though, you’ll really want to visit the store in person to see for yourself!     

Kroger has opened the doors to its first Fresh Fare concept store in Texas!    

Located across the street from TCU, Fresh Fare caters to shoppers seeking freshness, variety and quick meal solutions in a more intimate setting. The new store will carry a large selection of regionally-grown and organic fruits and vegetables (love this!), soy, vegetarian, and gluten-free products, chef-prepared carry out items and lots more.       

TEN Things I really like about Fresh Fare (and why you’ll want to visit this week):     

1. FREEBIES. Along with FREE samples throughout the day, now through Sunday (June 27), the first 250 customers through the door will receive a different grocery item each day! This is for the early birds, as doors open at 6:00AM. The giveaway line-up includes:     

Thursday (6/24): Driscoll’s Strawberries
Friday (6/25): Community Coffee
Saturday (6/26): 12 pack Dr. Pepper
Sunday (6/27): Half gallon of Blue Bell Ice Cream     

2. GREAT Savings & Grand Opening specials on every aisle! Pickup an in-store circular to take advantage of all the grand opening specials.     

3. Easy in and out navigation. I like the size of the store (a bit smaller than Kroger Signature Stores) ~ large enough to have a great selection and not too big to get in and out quickly. The express lanes are conveniently near the front door (notice the “about 15 items” express lane sign in the picture = brilliance!). A bicycle rack is available for cyclists in front of the store, too.     

                                      

4. Purple TCU Cupcakes and a big bakery case full of tempting treats from the in-house pastry chef.     

       

5. Fresh To Go Meals, including chef-prepared entrées, sides, salads, sushi, sandwiches and wraps for breakfast, lunch and dinner.     

6. Wide choice of fresh produce including more than 100 varieties of organic vegetables and fruits. I counted at least sixteen types of peppers alone!     

            

7. Artisan Fresh Bread Gallery plus in-store made flour tortillas in five flavors – white, wheat, butter, salsa and cinnamon sugar (must try!).     

8. Boars Head Deli Meats and a large range of imported and domestic cheeses. I am so glad to finally have a store in Fort Worth that stocks the entire Boars Head line!     

                          

9. Surf & Turf. The butcher shop carries organic and prime beef, buffalo, organic poultry, over 50 varieties of seafood, and more.     

10. A great variety of Fair Trade coffees and teas are found in the bulk section (including a TCU special coffee blend that is delicious!). And, if you don’t want to brew your own, a full service Starbucks ( open next month ) will be happy to help.     

                

I hope you have a chance to visit the new store.  And, if you happen to be gazing longingly through the glass of that amazing bakery case, we just might bump into each other!  :)     

You’ll find the Kroger Fresh Fare store at:
3120 S. University Drive in Fort Worth, across from TCU     

      

Enjoy and Share! :)     


     

     

• 2 Years for Price of One ~ Magazine and Newspaper
Subscriptions & Renewals from Amazon      

• Summer Reading Program for Kids = FREE Books from
Barnes and Noble, Borders and Half Price Books       

 • 10 Easy Strategies to Save a Bundle on Prescriptions     

      

     

Want to keep up with fresh ways to save money
and button down the family finances?     

Subscribe to Frugal in Fort Worth now. It’s FREE!      

Did you find these savings tips helpful? Please let us know in the
comments section or forward this site to others!      

Bookmark and Share     

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Posted in Cooking and Entertaining, Fort Worth, TX, FREE, Grocery Coupons

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Grilling this Summer? Check Out These FREE Resources & Recipes From Martha Stewart, America’s Test Kitchen, Southern Living, and More!

Posted on June 22, 2010 | Leave a comment

                         

Summertime and the cooking is easy.

 I recently found myself poking around the internet looking for some fresh summer ideas for cooking vegetables and grilled fare. I had hoped to find some yummy recipes for the abundance of vegetables that are beginning to ripen in our summer garden (bliss!). In my hunt, I uncovered a wealth of FREE and most definitely “pass-a-long worthy” resources.  

I’ve compiled the list below and hope that you, too, find some inspiration to cook something new for your next outdoor grilling event or summer dinner with the family (lots of great ideas for 4th of July entertaining tucked into these links as well)!   

The FREE resource scoop:  

:: Martha Stewart Summer Grilling Cookbook (pdf).  This  FREE Ebook includes over 30 recipes for appetizers, main dishes, and desserts (and everything in between). The recipes come straight from acclaimed chefs such as Fort Worth’s own Tim Love, Emeril Lagasse, Steven Raichlen (BBQ Expert & Author), and more.   

Mike Mills’ (17th Street Grill) even tells how to make his special BBQ Rub from scratch!   Tip:  This ebook is available for a limited time, and is downloadable as a pdf.  Be sure to print out the recipes you like or save them to your computer (or to your pdf capable smart phone).   

:: Cook’s Illustrated (America’s Test Kitchen) Grilled Vegetable Guide (pdf).  This 2-page FREE guide (direct from Cook’s Illustrated magazine), unpacks the results of the trial kitchen’s quest to find the ultimate way to grill vegetables with tasty success.  They have recommended simple methods for getting no-fail results along with great illustrations and easy-to-follow tips. This is downloadable as a pdf, too!   

                                    

:: Paula Deen’s Summer Grill Recipes. This link is full of summer recipes and grilling inspiration from Paula Dean.  Perfect for getting ideas for Fourth of July and Summer Cookouts.

:: Southern Living Magazine’s Favorite Summer Vegetable Recipes (special web section).  One of our regular stops for looking for dinner inspiration, Southern Living has compiled a nice set of recipes that take advantage of summer’s bounty.  Click here and you’ll also find an archive of all the recipes from every monthly issue (including our family’s favorite recipe for King Ranch Chicken).   

:: Taste of Home’s Top 10 Grilled Vegetable Recipes. In addition to recipes, you’ll find links for grilling “how-tos”  plus a fruit and vegetable grilling chart (complete with recommended cooking times and temperatures).   

What is your favorite summertime recipe? 

    

Enjoy and Share! :)   


   

   

• In the Market for Fresh Produce? Find Texas Department
of Agriculture CERTIFIED Farmers Markets   

• 2 Years for Price of One ~ Magazine and Newspaper
Subscriptions & Renewals from Amazon    

 • 10 Easy Strategies to Save a Bundle on Prescriptions   

   
 

   

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In the Market for Fresh Produce? Here’s your Source ~ Links to TDA CERTIFIED Locally Grown Farmers Markets

Posted on June 11, 2010 | Leave a comment

                                                  Farmers Market

One of my favorite things about summer is all the wonderful fresh fruits
and veggies from our hard working local farmers.  If those aisles and piles
of produce bring a smile to your face too, you just might enjoy this “reprint”
post from our blog last year.

                                                                      ::

 I just learned that the Texas Department of Agriculture certifies Farmers’
Markets all over Texas! Who knew?

I also discovered a couple of helpful links that make it simple to find these
markets and the freshest locally grown produce.

Note: Some markets are seasonal and certain products are subject to availability. Always check before making the trip.

Enjoy and Share! :)


 • Summer Reading Program for Kids = FREE Books from
Barnes and Noble, Borders and Half Price Books

• 2 Years for Price of One ~ Magazine and Newspaper
Subscriptions & Renewals from Amazon  

 • Try These Test Kitchen Favorites!

 

  

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Posted in Cooking and Entertaining, Fort Worth, TX, Frugal Fun in Fort Worth (Cheap/Free Entertainment Ideas), Grocery Coupons, Stretch your Dollar!

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FRUGAL REMINDER: 2 Years for the Price of 1 Magazine Subscriptions & Great Father’s Day Gift Ideas (Expires 5/31)

Posted on May 29, 2010 | 1 comment

We rarely post magazine deals, but we found Amazon’s long list of
magazine subscriptions are so deeply discounted with some of the
best prices we’ve seen in a while ~ definitely worth passing along.   

 There are a lot of great titles to choose from, including many that would
make great Father’s Day gifts for that hard-to-buy-for dad! And, if you
already subscribe, you can use the offer to extend your subscription.    

Go here to see Amazon’s full list of Buy 2 years for the price of 1
subscriptions. Below is a small sample of some of the bargains
you will find (the special pricing ends Monday, May 31):     

 Home & Garden Interests      

Magazine - Veranda      

Special Interests (Great for Dad’s Day!)      

Magazine - Popular Photography Magazine - Road and Track     

Magazines for the Family     

Magazine - Disney Family Fun Magazine - National Geographic     

Savings Tip: Bundle your purchases. If you have any other shopping to do
with Amazon, magazine purchases will work as a great filler to get the
FREE Shipping from Amazon when you spend $25 or more.     

      

      

Enjoy and Share! :)     


     

     

•  Summer Reading Program for Kids = FREE Books from
Barnes and Noble, Borders and Half Price Books       

 • Try These Test Kitchen Favorites!        

 • 10 Easy Strategies to Save a Bundle on Prescriptions     

 


     

     

Want to keep up with fresh ways to save money
and button down the family finances?     

Subscribe to Frugal in Fort Worth now. It’s FREE!      

Did you find these savings tips helpful? Please let us know in the
comments section or forward this site to others!      

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Posted in Books and Magazines, Cooking and Entertaining, Creative & Art Supplies, Entertainment, Fort Worth, TX, Gifts, Stretch your Dollar!, Toys & Games

5 Things I Learned While on The Great Vanilla Hunt.

Posted on May 27, 2010 | 6 comments

Vanilla extract is one of those “must-have-on-hand-at-all-times” ingredients in our kitchen.  In yesterday’s post, I confessed my great love for this bit of bliss in a little brown bottle (thank you God, for creating the vanilla bean!) and promised to share what I learned while searching for the vanilla brand with the best combination of taste and value.

Spicy Discoveries From The Great Vanilla Hunt

With the rising price of vanilla seeming to outpace the cost of gold, I recently decided to take on a Google hunt to find a “go to” vanilla brand.  As is typical with any Google experience, my search for “best cooking vanilla value” brought up 988,000+ web search paths to follow. Yikes!

While I don’t have 988,000 things to report (aren’t we grateful!), I will highlight some of my discoveries and conclusions for those fellow cooks who are interested:

1.  Hands down, Nielsen-Massey Madagascar Pure Vanilla Bean Paste is mentioned most often as the best cooking vanilla by foodies and cooks on the various websites I researched (and there were many ~ from Cooking Light to Bon Appetite to Amazon’s reader opinion/rating system). A visit with Central Market’s spice expert also revealed that Nielsen-Massey’s vanilla paste is the brand used in their cooking classes!

I did try the paste, and while it costs a few dollars more, it is in a word ~ YUM!! The paste is a bit different from the liquid variety and is used as an exact substitution for extract ( Read more here). If it matters to you, it is gluten-free, but not sugar-free.

2.  The overall best value recommendations come from Cook’s Illustrated Magazine.  A very trusted testing source by serious cooks, Cook’s Illustrated recommends two brands: good ol’ McCormick’s Pure Vanilla Extract and Rodelle Vanilla Extract. Read yesterday’s post, to get a list of test kitchen recommendations for other ingredients.

3.  Vanilla.com provides one of the best online resources for learning about vanilla (how it is sustainably grown to help farmers around the world, etc.) plus they offer great prices on purchasing vanilla extract in bulk.

 4.  Warning: Be careful when buying Mexican Vanilla!I have heard for many years that Mexican Vanilla is the best vanilla to use for baking, ice cream, etc. While that might be true, I’ve also learned through my research that it is wise to be very cautious when selecting a brand. Most of the “vanilla” manufactured in Mexico (especially the large, cheap bottles brought back from well-meaning vacationers), is actually artificial vanilla made from coumarin, an extract of the tonka bean.

Coumarin tastes and smells just like vanilla, only more so. That may sound great, but the U.S. Food and Drug Administration banned it outright from all foods and food additives sold in the U.S., since it has been shown to cause liver damage in lab animals and other results suggest it causes cancer (Learn more here).  I’ve always wondered why Mexican Vanilla is difficult to find on the grocery shelves in the U.S. ~ this could be the answer.

5.  When buying Mexican Vanilla, make sure it is from a trusted source like our local spice guru, Pendery’s in Fort Worth.  Pendery’s sells their own brand of Mexican Vanilla which is made from imported Mexican Vanilla Beans, but the extract process is completed in the U.S.

Do you have a favorite “go-to” brand for vanilla?
Weigh in, and tell us about it in the comments section. 

Enjoy and Share! :)


 • Summer Reading Program for Kids = FREE Books from
Barnes and Noble, Borders and Half Price Books

• 2 Years for Price of One ~ Magazine and Newspaper
Subscriptions & Renewals from Amazon 

  • Try These Test Kitchen Favorites! 

 

  

Want to keep up with fresh ways to save money
and button down the family finances?

Subscribe to Frugal in Fort Worth now. It’s FREE!

Did you find these savings tips helpful? Please let us know in the
comments section or forward this site to others!

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Want to Get The Most From Your Grocery Dollar? Find Top-Rated Foods With These FREE Shopping Lists of Test Kitchen Winners!

Posted on May 26, 2010 | 1 comment

   

                                 

We go through vanilla extract pretty quickly at our home.  It is that “secret kitchen weapon” that seems to make everything taste better (except, of course, broccoli!). Since the price of vanilla seems to continue to sky-rocket, I recently decided to take on a “google” hunt to find the vanilla brand with the best combination of taste and value (read about that here if you want to know more ~ some warnings about many Mexican vanillas too!).     

“Pass-along Worthy” Grocery Shopping Lists

As part of my little research project, I discovered some great grocery buying resources that get the “pass-along-worthy” seal of approval!  These helpful shopping lists provide the winning finalists for hundreds of name brand packaged foods in lots of grocery categories (based on blind taste tests and selected on best overall quality, taste, and convenience).   

I found these lists so helpful, that I printed them as a convenient reference to keep with my weekly grocery list and saved them to my iphone so I’ll always have them with me at the store (these are all pdfs, so you can save them to your computer/pdf capable smart phone as well)!    

Here’s the scoop:   

:: Cook’s Illustrated Magazine: 2010 Grocery Buying Guide For Supermarket Ingredients.  This list features hundreds of top-rated brands, tested and recommended by Cook’s Illustrated (a.k.a. America’s Test Kitchen and the favorite magazine of foodies). Click here for the free guide.   

:: Women’s Health Magazine:  125 Best Packaged Foods (In spite of the title, not just for women). Women’s Health Magazine’s team of nutritionists tested hundreds of grocery items to find the healthiest, tastiest, and most convenient supermarket finds.  Get the free list of results, here.   

:: Prevention Magazine: 25 Healthiest Packaged Foods List. Prevention Magazine’s team of experts recommend their favorite healthy and budget-friendly packaged convenience foods. These selections are wholesome foods,  low in sodium, calories, and without added preservatives/chemicals.  See details on why these foods were picked, here (plus get quick meal ideas for each one) and download the printable shopping list, here.   

:: Prevention Magazine:Top 10 Healthy Packaged Food Awards. Prevention Magazine announced it’s top 10 healthy packaged food awards on the NBC Today Show with Matt Lauer. I could not find a related “shopping list,” but you can create your own from the short Today Show video clip. Go here to see the video  which will also give a tidbit on why each winner was selected (note that there is a brief ad at the beginning of the video).    

How do you make the most of your grocery shopping budget?   Tell us in the comments section!  We look forward to hearing from you!   

    

    

Enjoy and Share! :)   


   

   

Summer Reading Program for Kids = FREE Books from
Barnes and Noble, Borders and Half Price Books    

• 2 Years for Price of One ~ Magazine and Newspaper
Subscriptions & Renewals from Amazon    

 • 10 Easy Strategies to Save a Bundle on Prescriptions   

 

  
   

   

Want to keep up with fresh ways to save money
and button down the family finances?   

Subscribe to Frugal in Fort Worth now. It’s FREE!    

Did you find these savings tips helpful? Please let us know in the
comments section or forward this site to others!    

Bookmark and Share   

    

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New Favorite: Baked Balsamic Chicken

Posted on May 20, 2010 | 1 comment

        

A couple of months ago I discovered a “no-fail” recipe for baked chicken. This easy recipe has consistently provided the most moist and flavorful baked chicken and is my new “go-to” for all recipes that start with a base of cooked chicken.  

The recipe is perfect as is (served right out of the oven with the balsamic sauce), but we also like the chicken without the sauce, served cold and chopped up on a green salad.  It would be great for chicken salad and sandwich wraps, too.  I double the recipe and freeze the extra chicken for quick and easy meals. 

Baked Balsamic Chicken

6 boneless, skinless chicken breast halves 

1 ½ teaspoons fresh rosemary leaves, minced, or ½ teaspoon dried 

2 cloves garlic, minced                             

½ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper 

½ teaspoon salt 

2 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil 

¼ cup balsamic vinegar 

4-6 tablespoons white wine (optional) 

1.  Remove excess fat from chicken and rinse the chicken. Combine the rosemary, garlic, pepper, and salt in a small bowl and mix well. Place the chicken in a large bowl. Drizzle with the olive oil, and rub each piece of chicken with the spice mixture. Cover and refrigerate overnight. 

2.  Preheat the oven to 450°F. Spray a heavy roasting pan or iron skillet with cooking spray. Place the chicken in the pan and bake for 10 minutes. Turn the chicken over. If the drippings begin to stick to the pan, stir in 3-4 tablespoons water or white wine (if using). 

3.  Bake until a thermometer inserted in the thickest portion of the meat registers 160°F and the juices run clear (about 10 more minutes). 

4.  If the pan is dry, stir in another 1-2 tablespoons of water or white wine to loosen the drippings. Drizzle the vinegar over the chicken in the pan. 

5.  Transfer the chicken to plates. Stir the liquid in the pan and drizzle over the chicken. 

To freeze extra chicken:  Eliminate steps 4 & 5.  Place chicken on a wax paper lined cookie sheet, so that the chicken is not touching.  Freeze for 2 hours (or until outside feels frozen) and then transfer to a freezer safe bag or container. 

Do you have a favorite summertime recipe?  We would love to know about it so we can share with our fellow readers and cooks. Share your recipe in the comments section (or email us). 

  

Enjoy and Share! :) 


 

 

Summer Reading Program for Kids = FREE Books from
Barnes and Noble, Borders and Half Price Books  

• 2 Years for Price of One ~ Magazine and Newspaper
Subscriptions & Renewals from Amazon  

 • 10 Easy Strategies to Save a Bundle on Prescriptions 

 

  
 

 

Want to keep up with fresh ways to save money
and button down the family finances? 

Subscribe to Frugal in Fort Worth now. It’s FREE!  

Did you find these savings tips helpful? Please let us know in the
comments section or forward this site to others!  

Bookmark and Share 

  

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FRUGAL BLISS: Get The South Beach Diet Supercharged Book for FREE!

Posted on May 5, 2010 | 7 comments

                          

A Book for Everyone!
Whether you have some pounds to lose or are just looking for some new tips and
yummy recipes for living a healthy lifestyle, everyone can benefit from the
South Beach Diet Supercharged book.  Written by cardiologist, Arthur
Agatston, the diet was birthed out of years of research with heart patients and
a goal of decreasing the risks of heart disease (the No. 1 killer of women!).    

I’m adding this book to my personal library. Now.
Having a history of heart disease on both sides of our family, I recently checked
this book out from our local library. After using the recipes and meal plans for a
few weeks I’ve decided to make the South Beach Diet Supercharged book part
of our permanent book collection. Not only are the recipes delicious, it feels 
really great knowing that I’m feeding my family food that we enjoy and
also benefits our health!     

I could go on (read the reviews on Amazon if you want to learn what
others think), but suffice it to say that I love, love, LOVE, what I’m learning from
this book and the positive transformation to our family’s eating habits (not
to mention our waist lines)!    

Savings Bliss = Getting the South Beach Diet book FREE!
When I decided to get this book, I was so happy to discover that it is being
offered for FREE (with shipping) from the South Beach Diet website.     

Getting the book FREE is pretty simple:    

  1. Go to the SouthBeachDiet.com site to sign up for your FREE book.
  2. Pay $4.95 for shipping and handling.  You’ll also receive free
    membership access to the South Beach Diet Online Web site for 14 days.
  3. Frugal friends, be sure to note:  You might want to cancel the free
    trial membership so you don’t get charged membership fees after
    2 weeks. You can cancel any time within those first two weeks to
    avoid the fees.  See website for details.

P.S. Most of the recipes are great for anyone who needs to cook for special
diabetic or gluten-free / celiac diets as they emphasize low-sugar, wheat-free,
and trans-fat free ingredients.   

Have you tried the South Beach Diet?  We would love to hear your
stories, tips, and recipes!  Please share with us in the comments section.  

    

Enjoy and Share! :)  


  

  

• 2 Years for Price of One ~ Magazine and Newspaper
Subscriptions & Renewals from Amazon   

 • 10 Easy Strategies to Save a Bundle on Prescriptions  

 • Please Share with Teachers You Know:
15% OFF Discount At Container Store
~ Discount is Good ALL Year!  

   
  

  

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Posted in Books and Magazines, Cooking and Entertaining, Fitness and Health, Stretch your Dollar!

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FRUGAL ALERT: Get $10 OFF at Steinmart, $5 OFF at Kohl’s, plus Save with Groupon!

Posted on April 20, 2010 | Leave a comment

                                 

Sign up for these great online coupons and offers:  

   

 Enjoy and Share! :)  

   

  

Want to keep up with fresh ways to save money
and button down the family finances?   

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Well, Hello Wonderful Yankee Candle Coupons: Choose From $10 OFF or Buy 2 Candles Get 1 FREE

Posted on March 31, 2010 | Leave a comment

         

I love “good” candles.  In particular, I am a fan of  Yankee Candle’s line of
Soy-based jar candles and reed diffusers (non-toxic and less likely to trigger
allergies).  It’s hard to choose, but I believe my favorite scent is “Vanilla
Cupcake,” a wonderful scent of baked cake without the calories!     

Right now, you can save on all “flavors” of Yankee Candles with
a couple of terrific coupons:    

Details, Details
What: Get the $10 off Coupon here and the Buy 2, Get 1 Coupon here.
Where:  Coupons are valid at Yankee.com, as well as at  participating stores,
   including  Bed Bath & Beyond, Holly’s Hallmark Stores, Cracker Barrel,
   and of course Yankee Candle Company Stores. You can find the complete
   list of local stores here. 

What is your favorite candle scent?   

 Enjoy & Share! :)   

    

   

 • Get FREE Movie Tickets to Toy Story 3 PLUS Save
$40 With Purchase of Toy Story Bundle On Blu-ray     

• FREE Monthly Jazz Series in Fort Worth    

    

   

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$10 OFF Party City Coupon ~ Just in Time for Easter Gatherings & Filling Baskets!

Posted on March 29, 2010 | 1 comment

  

Party City has a $10 off $30 printable coupon for online and in-store purchases
that is good until March 31, 2010. This is perfect timing to save on paper goods
and other supplies for Easter gatherings!  If you are putting together Easter
baskets for the little ones (and the not-so-little ones), this is a great spot to find
fun and inexpensive fillers, too.  

Details, details
What: Click here to get the $10 off $30 printable coupon. This coupon
even includes most products that are on sale, but it does not work with
clearance items.
When: This coupon is good through Wednesday, March 31, 2010.
Where: To shop online or to find a Party City close to you, click here.
  

Enjoy and Share! :)  


  

  

• How to Save $360 A Year On Your Wireless AT&T or
Verizon Plan (For Current & New Users)  

• 10 Easy Strategies to Save a Bundle on Prescriptions
  

• Please Share with Teachers You Know:
15% OFF Discount At Container Store
~ Discount is Good ALL Year!  

• 75% OFF Tools & Home Improvement at Amazon  


  

  

Want to keep up with fresh ways to save money
and button down the family finances?  

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Did you find these savings tips helpful? Please let us know in the
comments section or forward this site to others!   

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