One of the coolest things about the Fourth of July is the fireworks.

As kids, we almost never needed to leave the house to enjoy Fourth of July fireworks. Until the school across the street built a large addition, we had a perfect view of the fireworks from the neighboring town, right out my brother’s bedroom windows. Fortunately, there were three kids in the family and three windows, so we didn’t have to keep elbowing each other out of the way to get a good look.

While taking a photography class at a local camera club, I learned the secret to photographic fireworks with a 35-mm camera. I nearly broke my neck (and my tripod) trying to see the fireworks through the viewfinder of the camera, but I managed to get several good shots. I enlarged those and they still hang in my home.

Fireworks are becoming more routine now. We’ve attended two minor-league baseball games this year, and there is always a fireworks display after the game. I certainly love to see the show (I’m not at the baseball game to watch baseball, that’s for sure) but I don’t get the connection between an everyday sporting event and something like fireworks. To me, they signal holidays. And whether the Fourth of July is spent picnicking, watching parades or admiring the marching precision of a Drum & Bugle Corps, fireworks are a great way to top off the day.

COUPON TIME

We’ve gathered up some great coupons to help you save while you celebrate our nation’s history this weekend. From picnic supplies to photo deals and party needs and more–the savings are all here for you. Most of them expire quickly, so act fast for the best savings.

TODAY ONLY!
20% off orders of $75 or more at Collections Etc.
Enter promotion code 3FZZC6 during checkout. Instead of seeing the dollars off discount listed separately, the prices of the items in your cart will be reduced.
Valid through: June 30, 2009
Online orders only. Cannot be combined with any other offer. Does not apply to Collections Etc.’s eBay store. Not valid on sale priced items.

EXPIRES TOMORROW!
Free Shipping on orders over $75 at Celebrate Express
Use this link to activate the promotional keycode.
If there’s a problem, enter keycode REK-993 in your shopping cart.
Valid through: July 1, 2009
Coupon applies to standard shipping on merchandise orders of $75 or more within the continental U.S. only. Not valid on previously placed orders. Cannot be combined with other offers.

$5 off any order at The Popcorn Factory
Use coupon code ENT58.
Valid through: December 31, 2009
Cannot be combined with any other offer.

$10 off a purchase of $40 or more at Snapfish
At checkout use coupon code ULTCOUPJUN09.
Valid through: July 4, 2009
Plus, new Snapfish customers get Free Prints. $10 off $40 coupon can be used once per customer. Cannot be combined with other coupons. Valid for mail order only, not store pickup.

TODAY ONLY!
Free Shipping on online orders at WWBW.com
Enter promotional code FREESHIP4 at checkout.
Valid through: June 30, 2009

TODAY ONLY!
$15 off orders of $125 or more at Meijer.com
Enter promotion code 15june in your shopping cart. You must be logged in to use this code.
Valid through: June 30, 2009, 11:59pm ET
Some restrictions apply. Meijer reserves the right to limit quantities. One use per customer.

It’s great to have the Weird Holiday post back on Monday where it belongs. Enjoy the great selection of coupons we’ve found for you that match up with this week’s celebrations! But don’t delay–many of them expire early in the week. So act fast to get the best savings.

July is Blueberries Month! Time to bake my favorite blueberry muffins, or maybe some blueberry scones. There are enough blueberries around here for both!
EXPIRES TOMORROW!
15% off your order at Cherry Moon Farms
Use this link to activate the discount.
Valid through: June 30, 2009

July is Cell Phone Courtesy Month! Cell phones are great, but not while you’re driving, please. Or transacting business at a cash register or bank counter. Please don’t multitask with your phone.
One-time $50 instant credit with an online purchase of any phone or accessory when activating a new service on any postpaid Voice or Data rate plan
Not valid on phones that are Free After Rebates/Discounts.
Use the link above to activate the promotional code. Above your shopping cart there should be a note that says “Congratulations! The current promotional discount has been applied to your shopping cart.”
Valid through: June 30, 2009
Not valid on the iPhone, free phones, and select other phones. For phones priced under $50 after any discounts, your savings will equal the price. Instant credit cannot be redeemed for cash and may not be carried over to any other purchase. Offer requires online activation of qualified Wireless by AT&T rate plans $39.99 or more with a 2-year agreement. Credit approval and other restrictions apply.

June 29-July 5 is Fish are Friends, Not Food Week. Need some supplies for your aquarium? It’s a great time to stock up.
$5 off an order of $40 or more at Drs. Foster and Smith
During checkout click on the Add/Edit Coupon button and enter coupon code 3078/5132.
Valid through: August 31, 2009
Cannot be combined with other coupons.

June 28-July 4 is National Prevention of Eye Injuries Awareness Week. I’m guessing that’s because of the fireworks that often happen this week.
EXPIRES TOMORROW!
$5 off plus FREE shipping on orders over $199 at Lens.com
Use coupon code CJP-YA09.
Valid through: June 30, 2009

June 28 is Special Recreation Day for the Disabled. Lend a hand!
EXPIRES TOMORROW!
Free shipping on Apparel orders over $74.99 at Modells.com
Eligible items will have the following note on their product pages: “Free Shipping On Apparel Orders Over $74.99!”
Valid through: June 30, 2009
Exclusions apply. Offer valid for Economy shipping within the continental United States. Items which are not eligible for this promotion will be subject to normal shipping charges. Cannot be combined with any other promotional offer. Not applicable to orders placed through Group Sales. Offer not valid on out-of-stock or cancelled merchandise. While supplies last. This promotion may be modified or terminated at any time without notice.

June 30 is Leap Second Time Adjustment Day. An atomic clock would take care of that adjustment for you.
EXPIRES TOMORROW!
Free shipping on orders of $50 or more at RadioShack.com
Select products only, via standard ground shipping
Valid through: June 30, 2009
Applies only for standard ground shipping. Entire order must be shipped to a single address. Offer not valid on previous purchases. Only applies to orders to be shipped to a valid address in the contiguous United States. Offer not valid on canceled or out of stock merchandise.

July 1 is Canada Day and we’ve got a super free-shipping deal for our Canadian readers!
Free Shipping within Canada on orders of $39 or more
at Chapters.Indigo of Canada!
Valid through: Unknown

July 2 is I Forgot Day. It’s also my mom’s birthday–and it will not be a good idea if I forget that!
15% off your order at FTD.COM
Use this link. Your discount should be displayed at the top of the page. Discount will be reflected in the prices you see.
Valid through: Unknown

July 3 is Stay Out of the Sun Day. It’s too hot to be out in the sun anyway. Find a shady spot and get to work!
EXPIRES WEDNESDAY!
$175 off this Inspiron 15 bundle when you spend $649 or more
Use coupon code 8SVQSGWBN7QC1G.
Valid through: July 1, 2009 11:55pm CDT

Anyone else remember that childhood game? One player gets to be Mr. Fox, and goes to the other end of the yard from the rest of the group. Mr. Fox stands with his back to everyone else. Then the group yells, “What time is it, Mr. Fox?” Mr. Fox answers with a time “on the hour” such as 1 o’clock, 5 o’clock or 10 o’clock. The group takes the same number of steps toward Mr. Fox–for 1 o’clock, they take one step, for 5 o’clock, they take five steps, and so on. When the group gets close to Mr. Fox and asks the time, he can answer “12 o’clock Midnight” and then Mr. Fox turns around and chases everyone back to the starting line. Whichever player he catches is Mr. Fox for the next round.

For kids, that’s about all they need to know about telling time. It’s all done for them, really. And now that almost every clock is digital, most kids have no idea how to tell time on an analog clock. The words “clockwise” and “counterclockwise” are on their way to being meaningless to anyone under 15.

I guess I’m a little old-fashioned. I still use an analog wristwatch; I’m just not fond of the digital variety. I like having a traditional watch with a second hand. My husband has a watch, but the battery has run down and he never wears it anyway. I’d go crazy without my watch! It makes me nuts when I am in his car, because the digital clock in the car is broken, so without the radio and my watch, I have no idea if I’m running late.

COUPON TIME

Don’t run late or you’ll miss these great deals!

$20 off orders over $100 at when you use PayPal at Overstock.com
Use this link to activate coupon. Discount will appear during checkout.
Valid through: June 30, 2009 11:59pm MT
To receive this Offer, you must use a U.S. PayPal account in good standing and complete a qualifying purchase. The maximum discount per PayPal account is limited to $20 USD. The discount will be applied immediately at checkout. The following transactions are excluded from this offer: PayPal Mobile transactions, PayPal Plug-In transactions (formerly named: Virtual Debit Card), gift certificate payments, PayPal Debit Card payments, automatic and/or recurring payments that you have scheduled, and PayPal Plus Credit Card/ eBay MasterCard payments not made through your PayPal account.

15% off any size order at Limoges Jewelry
Use coupon code EMERALD.
Valid through: June 30, 2009
Coupon can be redeemed only once and cannot be combined with any other promotion (except for free shipping on orders over $60). Not valid on past purchases or out of stock items. Web orders only.

TODAY AND TOMORROW ONLY!
HALF-YEARLY SALE
33% or more off select Men’s Apparel, Accessories, and Shoes at Nordstrom.com
Use this link to view eligible items.
Valid through: June 28, 2009

20% off orders of $75 or more at Collections Etc.
Enter promotion code 3FZZC6 during checkout. Instead of seeing the dollars off discount listed separately, the prices of the items in your cart will be reduced.
Valid through: June 30, 2009
Online orders only. Cannot be combined with any other offer. Does not apply to Collections Etc.’s eBay store. Not valid on sale priced items.

$10 off orders over $100 at Gordon’s Jewelers
Use this link to activate the promotional code.
Valid through: July 31, 2009
Offer excludes clearance, loose diamonds, gift cards, select designers, swiss watches, repairs and special purchases. Offer may be used one time, cannot be combined with any other offer, is not redeemable for cash and cannot be used as credit towards your Gordon’s Jewelers® credit account. Offer may not be applied to previous purchases.

If you were ever into video games, you probably enjoyed the movie WarGames, in which a young hacker finds his way into a military computer and discovers that “Global Thermonuclear War” is no game.

My favorite thing about this movie is the computer itself. Of course, computers are only as good and effective as those who program them. But this computer is a real hoot. Upon login, the computer has a little conversation with the user, and there are games that can be played. The computer seems to be having fun, at times, with those playing the games. Naturally, these are all programmed responses, but the idea is fascinating, and speaks to the genius of the programmer.

More than 25 years after its release, it’s amazing to see how computer and video games have evolved. No longer does a single-color, simple line graphic suffice to entertain players. Now there is a soundtrack, lifelike video, and the ability to communicate with other players worldwide.

It’s a long way from that last game of Tic-Tac-Toe in the movie.

COUPON TIME

Looking for some video games or game-inspired toys and accessories? We’ve found some great deals for you.

Free Value Shipping on orders over $25 at Gamestop.com
Enter coupon code SAVER in your cart and click “Activate.”
Select USA Value as your shipping method
Valid through: June 30, 2009
Excludes consoles & console bundles. Only one offer per order.

20% off Strategy Guides at EBgames.com
Purchase any PC or video game over $29.99 and get 20% off the strategy guide. Enter coupon code 20GUIDE in your cart and click “Activate.”
Valid through: July 31, 2009
Terms and conditions: Only one offer & one discounted guide per order. Cannot be combined with other coupons. Offer is subject to change and may end at any time.

EXPIRES TOMORROW!
Free shipping on all Nintendo DS and DSi and Sony PSP Consoles and Games at eToys.com
Valid through: June 27, 2009
Orders shipped free will be mailed using standard shipping. Offer valid only while supplies last and not applicable to canceled orders due to out-of-stock merchandise.

NEW CUSTOMERS:
$5 off a purchase of $75 or more in the DVD, Games & Music Stores at Buy.com
Use this link.
Valid through: June 30, 2009 11:59pm PT

$10 off orders over $50 at LeapFrog.com
Use promotion code HY8YUE in your shopping cart.
Valid through: June 30, 2009, 11:59pm CT
Purchase amount necessary to qualify for discount does not include tax or shipping. No substitutions or cash equivalents. LeapFrog reserves the right to change this promotion at any time. Offer void where prohibited or restricted by law. This offer can not be used for purchases made through LeapFrog School or the Employee Store.

EXPIRES TOMORROW!
$10 off $50 or more of Transformers Toys and Games at ToysRUs.com
Discount will appear in your shopping cart.
Valid through: June 27, 2009, 11:59pm ET
This promotional offer may be modified or terminated at any time without notice. Toys R Us reserves the right to cancel any order due to unauthorized, altered, or ineligible use of a discount.

The other day I spent a lot of time in my kitchen, making my brother’s Legendary Clam Chowder for dinner and some homemade bread to go with it. This would have been better done last week, when it was cool and rainy, but I didn’t get the recipe until the weekend.

I’ve got a small kitchen, and it was getting pretty crowded in that 10X10 room with me chopping potatoes, celery and onions, tending the soup pot and the bread, and kids wandering in and out looking for snacks and drinks. But that worked out–better than the soup did.

Something went very wrong when I made that Legendary Clam Chowder. I followed all the directions just as they were given to me–and these were very specific directions. But the creamy soup never turned creamy. It was delicious, but thin.

COUPON TIME

When things don’t quite go as planned in the kitchen, I start thinking about how great it would be if my kitchen were three times the size, with five times the counter space (and a door to keep people out when I don’t want interruptions.) These deals are great for anyone with designs on improving their kitchen (or their soup).

TODAY ONLY!
Free Shipping on online orders over $49 at CHEFS
Use this link to activate the Promotional Code.
Valid through: June 25, 2009
Valid online only for free shipping within the continental United States. Does not apply to previous orders. Items with additional postage and handling, items shipped directly from the manufacturer (listed as “AP” beneath the item price), express delivery orders, and gift cards do not qualify for free shipping. Not valid with any other offers.

20% off your highest-priced item on orders of $60+
Online only. Enter code BHASPRING1 in the Promotional Code box in your shopping bag and click APPLY.
Valid through: June 30, 2009
Discount applies to highest priced item. Not valid on prior orders. Cannot be combined with any other special offer or promotion. Valid on merchandise only. Not valid on the purchase of Gift Certificates. Excludes wall decor, mirrors, small electrics and jewelry.

Up to a $1,500 Mail-In-Rebate with purchase of multiple Viking appliances
Qualifying Viking appliances only. Use this link for details.
Valid through: July 31, 2009

TODAY ONLY!
10% off orders over $50 at Oneida.com
Use promo code AFF1050.
Valid through: June 25, 2009
Not valid on previous purchases.

OFFER ENDS TOMORROW!
40% off regularly-priced items at JCPenney.com
Use promotion code SIZZLER.
Check out with the “checkout + promo code” option and make sure the code is typed into the promotion code box.
Valid through: June 26, 2009

First of all, I’d like to apologize for the technical difficulties that caused Weird Holiday Monday to be moved to Tuesday! I’ve been assured that the Tech Geniuses here at Ultimate Coupons are working hard to fix that problem, and we’ll have all our days of the week in the right order from here on in.

Being that it’s summer vacation, I find it very easy to mix up my days of the week. No one’s got to go to school, so all the days are pretty much the same. If it weren’t for summer basketball, I probably wouldn’t look at a calendar at all, and no one would know what day of the week it is.

My teenage daughter has played summer basketball for three years now. There’s a local league with about 8 teams in her age group. Games are played in a park on outdoor courts, unless it rains. Then two local schools let the league use their gyms for the games. Bleacher space is limited, so parents bring their beach chairs and line up along the edge of the courts to watch the games, and it’s not uncommon for the ice-cream truck to drive by. All in all, it’s a good way for the kids to get some exercise, see their friends, and have fun on summer evenings.

And after last night’s game, my daughter’s friends will all be following her lead in getting some knee pads. Those outdoor-court surfaces are really unforgiving.

COUPON TIME

Even if basketball’s not your sport, there are plenty of outdoor games to play in summer–and plenty of deals on the equipment needed.

20% off orders over $100 at Fogdog Sports
Eligible items will have the following note on their product page: “Take 20% Off!”
Valid through: June 30, 2009
Offer valid only while supplies last and not applicable to canceled orders due to out-of-stock merchandise. Excludes Bauer, Coleman Boats, Columbia, DeMarini, Easton, Escape, Footjoy, Future Beach, Kettler, K-Swiss, Leisure Life, Louisville, Miken Sports, Mizuno Golf, Nike, Oakley, Pelican, The North Face, Titleist, Under Armour, Worth brands and select other items. If the coupon doesn’t seem to work on an item, the brand is probably excluded. Discount does not apply to gift cards, gift certificates, taxes, shipping and handling charges, gift-wrapping or similar charges. This offer is not valid on previous purchases. Entire order must be shipped to a single address.

15% off your order at The Sports Authority
Eligible items will have the following note on their product page: “Ultimate Coupons - 15% OFF Your Entire Order”
Valid online only. Use the link above to activate the coupon. If there’s a problem, enter promotion/discount code ULTIMATE15 in your cart.
Valid through: June 30, 2009 11:59pm ET
Discount does not apply to taxes, shipping and handling charges, gift wrapping or similar charges. Cannot be combined with any other promotional offer nor is this offer valid on previous purchases. Offer excludes Treadmills, Bikes/Ellipticals, Home Gyms, select table games, trampolines & accessories, electronics/optics, asics, Atec, Bauer, Bladez, Butterfly, Callaway, Carhart, Casio, CCM, Cobra, Coleman Boats, Columbia, DeMarini, Easton, Escape, Etyomic Research, Fly Flot, Footjoy, Front Porch Classics, Future Beach, Garmin, Goaliath, Goalrilla, Goalsetter, Ground Control, Hi-Tec, Heelys, Jugs, K2, Kettler, K-Swiss, Leatherman, Leisure Life, Louisville, Louisville Slugger, Magellan, Magnum, Miken Sports, Minolta, Mission, Mizuno, Mongoose, Motorola, Muzono Golf, Nike, Nike Golf, Oakley, Pelican, Pro Feet, Rawlings, Razors, Roces, Rollerblade, Salomon, SKB, Spira, Spring Step, Taylor Made, The North Face, Tippmann, Titleist, Trend Sports, Under Armour, World Industries, Worth, electronics/optics and select other items. If the coupon doesn’t seem to work on an item, the brand is probably excluded. Discount is not applicable to gift cards and gift certificates. Entire order must be shipped to a single address. Offer valid only while supplies last and not applicable to canceled orders due to out-of-stock merchandise.

10% off & Free Shipping at Road Runner Sports
Use this link to activate the coupon. No need to enter a promotion code. If you enter one it will replace the 10% off discount.
Valid through: July 15, 2009
Does not apply to Star Trac fitness equipment, Runner’s World subscriptions, club memberships or gift certificates. Cannot be combined with other coupons.

Free shipping on Apparel orders over $74.99 at Dunham’s Sports
Valid online only. Use this link to activate the coupon code.
Valid through: June 30, 2009
NOTE: You must select the “Standard Shipping” option to receive the discount. Otherwise, the full expedited shipping charge will be applied. Note that this offer is only valid for orders shipped within the continental U.S. This offer applies only to the individual items; other items in your cart that are not eligible will still incur a shipping charge. Offer only valid on items marked with the FREE SHIPPING Savings Alert icon. Applies only for standard shipping. Discount does not apply to taxes, gift wrapping or similar charges. Entire order must be shipped to a single address. Cannot be combined with any other promotional offer nor is this offer valid on previous purchases. Only applies to orders to be shipped to a valid address in the United States, excluding Alaska and Hawaii. Not available for shipments to APO/FPO addresses or P.O. boxes. Customer responsible for all shipping costs for returned merchandise. Offer not valid on cancelled or out of stock merchandise.

20% off a Single Item at Dick’s Sporting Goods
Eligible items will have the following text on their product pages: “20% off a Single Item!”
Valid online only. Use this link to activate the coupon.
Valid through: July 4, 2009 11:59pm ET
Discount only applied to qualifying product and will be automatically calculated at the time of checkout. Offer excludes Adams Golf, Air Rifles, Asics, Atec, Baby Jogger, Bauer, Bear Archery, Bowflex, Carhartt, Callaway, Cleveland Golf, Columbia, Cobra, DeMarini, Easton, Ektelon, Escape, Fitness Quest, Fly Flot, Footjoy, Fred Bear Equipment, Head, Horizon, Jugs, K2, Kettler, K-Swiss, Lobster, Louisville Slugger, Magnum, MBS Mountainboards, MBT, Merrell,Miken Sports, Mission, Mizuno, Mongoose, Nextt Golf, Nike, Nike Golf, Oakley, Picnic Tables, Prince, Pro Feet, Puma, Rawlings, Razors, Rollerblade, Salomon, Schwinn, Skycaddie, Speedstik, Spring Step, Sole, Taylor Made, The North Face, Titleist, Trend Sports, Under Armour, and Worth, all electronics/optics, ellipticals, treadmills, home gyms, weights, benches, and select basketball systems. Maximum discount of $200 per billing address. Discount does not apply to gift certificates, gift cards, taxes, shipping and handling charges, gift-wrapping or similar charges. Cannot be combined with any other promotional offer nor is this offer valid on previous purchases. Entire order must be shipped to a single address and customer is responsible for all shipping costs for returned merchandise.

EXPIRES TOMORROW!
Free Shipping on your entire order with purchase of any Teva item at REI.com
Valid through: June 25, 2009

This week’s weird holidays bring you Bomb Pops, watermelons and just about everything in between! Enjoy the strange celebrations and the fabulous savings.

June is National Steakhouse Month! I doubt it’s a coincidence that Steakhouse Month is held in the same month as Father’s Day. Two great things that go great together…
$34 off Top Sirloin at OmahaSteaks.com
Use this link to activate the offer.
Valid through: Unknown

June is Potty Training Awareness Month! Summer’s a great time to begin–and don’t believe anyone who tells you that your child will train in a day.
$5 off a case of Seventh Generation Diapers at BabyAge.com
Use coupon code SEVENTH in your shopping cart.
Valid through: June 30, 2009, 11:59pm ET
Cannot be combined with any other coupons. Not valid on previous purchases.

June is Vision Research Month! And it’s a great time to get your kids’ eyes checked; they won’t have to miss school for that appointment.
Get $10 off today’s order of $100 or more at Lensmart
Use coupon code TENLENS at checkout.
Valid through: June 30, 2009
Cannot be combined with other coupons. One use per household.

June 21-27 is Carpenter Ant Awareness Week! Don’t let them take over your home and yard.
$10 off online orders over $100 at HomeDepot.com
Use promotion code DADSDAT66 at checkout.
Valid through: June 24, 2009
This offer is valid and redeemable for a $10 discount on one entire online order of $100 or more made at homedepot.com only. This offer cannot be combined with any other discount, offer, promotion or special incentive program and is not valid on: (a) labor or Self-Furnish and Install (”SF&I”) and Furnish and Install (”F&I”) program products, including without limitation roofing, windows, siding, HVAC products, custom closets, storage solutions, installed sheds or structures; (b) the purchase of gift cards or certificates; (c) prior purchases; or (d) Consumer Electronics (including, but not limited to, televisions, DVD players, speakers, home theaters, cellular phones, etc.), John Deere, Cub Cadet, Little Giant Ladder Systems, Thermador in select markets, Gaggenau, Miele, Dacor, Viking, Fisher&Paykel, Sharp Insight, Delonghi, Casablanca, Hunter Prestige, Buckhaven, Weber, Lynx, Alfresco, OCI, Marvel, Bertazzoni, Aga, and Vent A Hood products and trade styles. Enter promotion code at checkout to receive your discount. The discount will be reflected at checkout for the products qualifying for the promotion. Offer not valid for payment on any The Home Depot credit account.

June 25-28 is Watermelon Seed Spitting Week! Did you ever play “Squash the Melon” on a playground slide? The bigger the slide, with the more kids, the better. The trick is not to get off when you get to the bottom of the slide. Then pile up as many kids behind the first one as possible, until finally someone is squeezed out of the middle. Kids who are good at this game go on to play “how many people can you fit into a Volkswagen” in college.
10% off online orders over $100 at ShindigZ.com
Use promotion code SZCJC9 at checkout.
Valid through: December 31, 2009

June 23 is Public Service Day! Plan to do something to help others in your community.
40% off a NEW membership plan at Angie’s List
Use promo code DEALTAKERFALL.
Valid through: December 31, 2009

June 25 is National Bomb Pop Day. Remember those? If you grew up in the ’70s, those were the ultimate summer treat: red, white and blue ice pops shaped like rockets.  If you like Bomb Pops or other frozen treats, make sure you have a nice big freezer!
$5 off $50 coupon at Sears.com
Use coupon code SEARS5OFF50.
Valid through: January 31, 2010

June 26 is Ugly Dog Day! My daughter thinks all dogs are cute, but I’ve seen photos from the “World’s Ugliest Dog Contest” and yes, there are some ugly dogs out there.
Up to 20% off select Dog Travel items at Doctors Foster and Smith
Discounts will appear on item pages.
Valid through: June 29, 2009

June 27 is Great American Backyard Campout Day–conveniently scheduled on a weekend, when Dad’s home to sleep out in the tent with the kids. I’ll generously remain in the house in case of emergencies.
MONDAY & TUESDAY ONLY!
15% off orders of $100 or more at Sierra Trading Post
Use this link to activate the keycode. Discount will be reflected in your shopping cart. (You should see a note saying “Your 15% discount has been applied to your order!”)
Valid through: June 23, 2009
Valid online only. Cannot be combined with other offers. Some exclusions apply.

It’s summer–and everyone needs sunglasses in summer! 

I don’t know about you, but I can’t think of sunglasses without thinking of ZZ Top.  Without their sunglasses, would you recognize them?

My daughter loves sunglasses.  Along with flip-flops, I think she’d like a pair in every color.  Right now she has bright orange ones.  They’re hard to lose, that’s for sure.

Her older brother is on the hunt for a pair of sunglasses.  He never cared about them before, but now that he’s learning to drive, he’s figured out that sunglasses can be a good thing.  He’s had to please, though–he insists that the stores around here only sell sunglasses for “girls and rappers.”

Maybe he should check with ZZ Top and find out where they get their eyewear.

Now go out and get yourself some big black frames
With the glass so dark they wont even know your name
And the choice is up to you cause they come in two classes:
Rhinestone shades or cheap sunglasses.  Oh yeah…

COUPON TIME

$10 off online orders at 39DollarGlasses.com
Use this link to activate the coupon. Discount will appear during checkout.
Valid through: June 30, 2009

Free shipping on any order at Vision Direct
Use this link and enter coupon code SHIPFREE09 in your shopping basket.
Valid through: December 29, 2009
You must click-through one of the links on this page for the coupon code to be valid. Minimum purchase does not include, and the offer does not apply to, shipping charges or applicable sales tax. Entire amount must be used on a single order, and balance may not be carried over. Cannot be combined with some offers.

$10 off your order of $50 or more at Eastbay.com
Use source code LKS19676 in the box during checkout.
Valid through: July 6, 2009

$10 off Contact Lens orders of $60 or more at Walgreens.com
Use coupon code LENSSALE in your shopping cart.
Valid through: June 27, 2009, 11:59pm ET
Cannot be combined with any other offer. Offer does not apply toward taxes or shipping charges. Contact lens solutions and accessories do not apply toward the subtotal needed to qualify. Not available in AR, NJ and PR. Timing will be determined by Walgreens server clock. Offer valid online only.

Free shipping on orders over $99 at Lens.com
Use coupon code AF09-SENC.
Valid through: June 30, 2009

ULTIMATE COUPONS EXCLUSIVE!
13% off orders over $130 at Coastal Contacts
Plus free shipping!
In the last box where you enter your name & address enter coupon code ULTIMATEJUNEEXCLUSIVE. (Use the “Have an Offer Code? Click Here” link to display the box if it is not already visible.)
Valid through: June 30, 2009
Cannot be combined with any other coupon.

I’m a fan of coffee any time of year. I like to start my morning with a big travel mug of coffee with plenty of cream and sugar.  And it’s nice to end the day with some coffee ice cream.  I’ve been enjoying Friendly’s Vienna Mocha Chunk (top that with some caramel syrup for sundae heaven) but to tell the truth, I’m not too picky when it comes to coffee ice cream.

Just because the days are getting hotter doesn’t mean that we all can’t enjoy our favorite beverages.  Coffee, like tea, is great hot OR iced!  You can do a google hunt and find tons of recipes for “make your own” frappuccinos, iced coffee and other frozen drinks.  It’s very easy to make a frozen coffee drink  in a reusable drink bottle.  Do make sure it’s not the kind with a straw, because the drink will freeze inside the straw and you’ll never get to drink anything.

Here’s how:

• Brew your favorite coffee, a little stronger than usual.  Make enough to fill just over half of the container you’ll be using.
• Add sugar or sweetner to taste.
• Add milk or flavored creamer (if you use flavored creamer, skip the next step).
• Add a little ice-cream topping (chocolate, caramel, dulce de leche).
• Pour coffee into the container and mix.  I just put the top on the drink bottle and shake.
• Make sure there’s about an inch of headroom at the top of the bottle.  Then put it in your freezer.  It’ll be nice and slushy in a few hours, or you can let it freeze solid.  That’ll take a long time to thaw, but you’ll have plenty of time to enjoy your iced drink.

COUPON TIME

If the idea of making your own iced coffee has you thirsty for some fresh coffee beans or even a new coffeepot, you’ve come to the right place for savings on these and more:

99-cent shipping on all orders at Boca Java
Use this link to activate the coupon.
Valid through: June 21, 2009

NEW CUSTOMERS ONLY
$10 off your first order at Peapod.com
Use this link to get the promotional code.
Expires: Unknown

TODAY ONLY!
Free shipping on orders over $100 at Overstock.com
Use this link to activate coupon. Discount will appear during checkout.
Valid through: June 18, 2009, 11:59pm MT
Excludes Books, Music, Movies, Software, Videogames, Club O, Overstock Auctions, Travel, Cars and Gift Cards. Cannot be combined with any other discount or coupon. Continental U.S. and APO/FPO orders only.

$15 off orders of $125 or more at Meijer.com
Enter promotion code 15june in your shopping cart. You must be logged in to use this code.
Valid through: June 30, 2009, 11:59pm ET
Some restrictions apply. Meijer reserves the right to limit quantities. One use per customer.

Up to 30% off select Snacks and Beverages at Quill.com
Plus FREE gift offers!
Valid through: June 30, 2009, 11:59pm ET

Extra 60% off Dining Certificates at Restaurant.com
Plus a $15 gift from Lobster Gram!
Use discount code DAD.
Valid through: June 21, 2009
This discount is in addition to the everyday discounts at Restaurants.com. So if you buy a $25 Certificate for $10 and use a 80% off coupon, you pay only $2! In order to redeem the Lobster Gram® offer, you must click on the Lobster Gram® logo or link on the order confirmation page or in the confirmation email. A special promotional code will be listed on the Lobster Gram® page. At the Lobster Gram® website, place items totaling $75 or more in your cart. Enter the promotional code at checkout for your discount.

Everyone in my house needs some summer sandals.  For my teenage daughter, the footwear of choice is flip-flops.  If she could, she’d have a pair in every color, and I wouldn’t put it past her to “mix and match” them.

Flip-flops are fun for summer.  Basic flip-flops can be dressed up with accessories like flowers or with printed bases.  When I was a teen, the fad in flip-flops was the rainbow-striped base.  Now, you can find flip-flops with just about anything on them:  flowers, skull-and-crossbones, jewels or beads, hearts, American flags, and plaids.  They’re made of rubber, plastic, and even terry-cloth.

I let my daughter have her flip-flops.  If she’s comfortable wearing shoes that hang on between her toes, she can wear them.  I never much liked them; I always preferred “slides.”  My favorites were the Dr. Scholl sandals in the ’70s.  Those were awesome:  with their wooden base, nailed sides and adjustable buckle, they looked fabulous–but you couldn’t walk very far without driving yourself crazy.  Those things were the noisiest shoes ever.  Unless you were on sand or grass, people would hear you coming from three blocks away.

I’ll probably stick to slides and Crocs this summer, as usual.  There’s nothing like a shoe that you can take back outside and hose down if it gets full of sand or mud.  As long as I stay away from escalators, I’ll be OK.

COUPON TIME

Searching for the perfect summer shoe?  Try these deals:

10% off online orders at Chinese Laundry
Use coupon code CL10P.
Valid through: Unknown

Free Shipping on your order when you buy Famous FitFlops
Valid online only. Use this link to activate the promotion code. Standard shipping only. If necessary, enter promotion code WBFITFLP.
Valid through: June 30, 2009 11:59pm ET
Valid online only. Excludes clearance items. Free Standard Shipping offer applies when you order FitFlops. Standard shipping only. Cannot be combined with other promotion codes. Not valid on previously placed orders.

Buy 1 pair of shoes, get 1 50% off at FamousFootwear.com
Plus, receive free shipping!
Valid through: September 19, 2009

5% off online orders over $100 at Heels.com
Use coupon code SPRING09 in Step 4 of checkout.
Valid through: June 30, 2009

10% off your order at Simple Shoes
Plus, receive FREE shipping!
Use promotional code ECODAD at checkout.
Valid through: June 21, 2009
Not valid on clearance items.

20% off when you buy 2 pairs of Women’s Shoes
25% off when you buy 3 or more pairs of Women’s Shoes at Macy’s
Discount will appear in your shopping bag.
Valid through: June 18, 2009
Excludes COACH, clearance items, Everyday Values, Birkenstocks, Born, Crocs, Ed Hardy, FitFlop, Sofft, and Sperry.