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Jan 02

5 Money-Saving Deals from ImIn.com

Posted on January 2, 2012 by Christine Wojdyla

Happy New Year!

So long 2011; hello 2012! Let us help you get your year off to the right start with these five money-saving deals for you to get fit, get active, or have a great meal.

Fitness Deals

We’ve got two great fitness deals going live today! Core Fitness and Tri-Fitness are both Chicagoland training facilities determined to get you into shape this year. Find the one that suits your needs, and get going!

ImIn.com and Core Fitness Chicago are bringing you one of the best deals this week to get started on your New Year’s Resolution. For just $99, you’ll get three Level 1 Training Sessions with one of the educated strength trainers at Core Fitness. Personal training at one of the finest facilities is going to get you off to the right start—you’ll feel better, look better, and be ready to move this month when you sign up for your sessions at Core Fitness. After your intense workout, you can also relax those sore muscles with an in-house massage session. So, visit ImIn.com today to get this amazing deal on the best gift you can give yourself: health.

This week on ImIn.com, you can get toned up and in-shape to keep up with your heart health when you purchase the money-saving deal from Tri-Fitness in Chicago. For one month of indoor boot camp with professional fitness trainers, you would normally pay $169 at Tri-Fitness. When you buy the $70 voucher at ImIn.com, you’ll save more than 50%. This deal will keep you heart healthy for sure. With the voucher, you will receive three one-hour sessions each week for four weeks. That’s less than $6 PER CLASS!

Food Deals

Maybe you didn’t plan a diet or fitness regime for your New Year’s resolution. Awesome! You can try one of our fantastic foodie deals running today on ImIn.com.

Today, ImIn.com is offering the perfect deal for a coupon on the best pizza around. Sarpino’s Pizza in Hoffman Estates has teamed up with ImIn to provide you with one of our 50% off deals on pizza. You’ll get an $18 voucher for just $9 to use on your next dine-in, carry-out, or delivery Italian from Sarpino’s Pizza. At ImIn, we love Sarpino’s. My favorite is the mushroom pizza, though I really like their sausage (sliced, not crumbled) too! Visit ImIn.com now and check out Sarpino’s Pizza using the deal coupon. Make sure to head to ImIn.com daily for new discounts and deals.

At Munchie P’s, you will discover some of the tastiest fast casual food around. Even better, when you’re buying deals from ImIn.com, you can get this awesome food at a discounted price. This week, ImIn.com is offering a $40 voucher to Munchie P’s just for $20. This voucher applies for 4 trips at $10 per visit, so you’ll get to visit Munchie P’s for 4 tasty dinners. With two locations in Geneva and Elburn, this is an incredible spot to eat. Go to ImIn.com every day to discover all of the great deals & bargains out there.

Fun Deals

Another of this week’s fantastic money-saving deals is for billiards at Poplar Creek Bowl. If you love to play pool, this deal is perfect for you. For just $6, you’ll receive a table rental for one hour at Poplar Creek Bowl in Hoffman Estates. You’ll save 50% off the regular price of $12 per hour. Grab your friends and head over to Poplar Creek for a few rounds of pool. While you’re at Poplar Creek, check out the 32 lane facility, stop by the Sports Bar, and visit the arcade for even more fun and games. So get to ImIn.com today to pick this great deal up, and keep checking ImIn.com for great deals and discounts on everything you love to do.

So go out there and enjoy your ImIn.com deals. There are plenty more money-saving discount vouchers to choose from, so head over to ImIn.com today!
Christine

 

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Dec 30

Free Books for your Kindle

Posted on December 30, 2011 by Christine Wojdyla

I love to read. Love. Heart. Love. I love free stuff. Love. Heart. Love. Free books? OH YEAH!

Free Books for Kindle?

Yes, I did say free books. For your Kindle. You know, the one you got for Christmas with two quick reads that you’ve already trolled through, and you’re currently looking for some new reading material for? That’s what I’m here for! I will get you all the free books your little heart desires. You’ll be reading for months with my brilliant idea. You know, the brilliant idea that I stole from Carla, my cubicle neighbor and partner in crime at ImIn.com.

If you look at the Kindle Store on Amazon you will discover a huge list of the top 100 books and the top 100 free books available for the Kindle.  You can thank my Bachelor’s Degree in English (and the almost-English-teacher status) for the need to tell you about my top picks on this list of 100 books. I’ve chosen my 6 faves out of these classics for you to peruse, but there’s many more available for your reading pleasure. These books are near and dear to my heart, so I hope you enjoy them.

Pride and Prejudice-Jane Austen

Quite possibly my favorite book of all time. I’ve read it at least 5 times, and own the BBC video version. A classic novel written early 19th century England, P & P follows Elizabeth Bennett and her four sisters as they deal with the trials and tribulations of love and marriage. The ultimate chick book.

Little Women-Louisa May Alcott

This was the first novel that I ever read. Another great girl book, this story follows the four very different March sisters in their coming of age during the American Civil War. A definite tear-jerker, so make sure to have a tissue box handy.

A Christmas Carol-Charles Dickens

Who doesn’t love the classic tale of Ebenezer Scrooge? This Victorian novel tells of the wealthy miser who learns his lesson on Christmas Eve, just in time to change his ways. I try to read this around Christmas every year, though it’s not always possible.

The Adventures of Tom Sawyer-Mark Twain

OK, so it’s not quite Huck Finn, but still sassy and Twain-like. The perfect book for an adventurer, girl or boy. The imaginative Tom Sawyer is always looking for a great adventure, and his tale is fun and entertaining for any reader. It was the first full novel that I can remember my mom reading to my brother and I.

The Velveteen Rabbit-Margery Williams Bianco

One of my favorite children’s books growing up. I remember this story being read to us in grade school, and I loved every minute of it. As I became a reader myself, I often visited the library to check out this story of a much-loved stuffed rabbit who longs to be real.

Great Expectations-Charles Dickens

I love Dickens, obviously. This was actually the first Dickens story that I read (yep, even before A Christmas Carol). It’s actually a really great book for dudes. It follows young Pip, a poor orphan living with his sister, as he grows into a successful young man through a mysterious benefactor.

Of course, there are dozens of free books for your Kindle that I haven’t discussed. You’ll just have to check them out for yourself!

So, go! Read a book!

Christine

 

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Dec 29

After Christmas Sales

Posted on December 29, 2011 by Christine Wojdyla

After Christmas Sales

Now is the perfect time to stock up on your Christmas gear (and even gifts!) for next year. I know, I know–Storage for a whole year before you can use it or gift it? The after Christmas sales can be worth it.

Of course, not all of the after Christmas sales are worth your time. 50% off or even 75% off at The Dollar Store will render you very little. Unless of course, you’re down with saving just a few pennies on the already-well-picked-through items remaining.

Yes, it’s true, it’s been almost a week since Christmas, but there are still many great deals and sales to be had. If you’ve got the time and money to do a little shopping at the after Christmas sales (and clearances!), give these stores a shot.

Home Depot

A few years ago, my mom bought my Christmas tree for me at Home Depot. A week after Christmas. For $20. Regularly over $100, this tree was a fantastic deal. Right now, it’s standing tall and proud in the ImIn.com office. I’ve used it for 4 years now, and it’s still in perfect condition.

Walmart

Ok, so maybe most of the stuff is gone… but you might still find a sweet gift set with your favorite razor set, shampoo/conditioner, or snack pack at 50% off. Walmart usually stocks up on these things, and often have more than they can sell. I’ve gotten some pretty sweet stuff really cheaply here. Also, you can find wrapping paper and ribbons for a great price too-another thing that Walmart stocks up on and never sells all of. You can also check the ImIn Coupon Site for a Walmart coupon to add to your savings.

Kmart

Like Walmart, Kmart has a nice stock of gift sets and wrapping paraphernalia. Unlike Walmart, Kmart has a really awesome selection of discount Christmas decor for you to stock up on for next year. I love the different Martha Stewart collections for fancy trees. Ornaments, and tinsel, and garland oh my! And there’s even a $5 Kmart coupon on the ImIn Coupon site!

Joanne Fabric

I know that a lot of this store has been picked through, but they have a pretty awesome selection of holiday ribbons and a few other choice decorative pieces that you can add to your collection of holiday goodness. That’s where I got the clear glass Christmas ornaments last year to make my DIY Ornaments.

Carson Pirie Scott, Hobby Lobby, and Macy’s

These stores are where I find the prettiest glass ornaments at the best prices. The after Christmas sales are pretty sweet (even for non-holiday items!) You would think that they would also be completely picked over by now, but sometimes you’ll find a really great hidden gem for a mere 50%-25% of the regular cost.

Hallmark

The Hallmark ornaments are still only 25%-40% off right now. You’ll want to check them a few times over the next couple of months for the best ornaments at the lowest prices. I love, love, love Hallmark ornaments. I could probably have a tree that just houses Hallmark ornaments. So trust me, I know all about it. Also, you can find all of the Lolita glassware here. The holiday stuff goes on sale, and sometimes you can find the glasses for 50% off! My martini glass collection wouldn’t be the same without a Hallmark clearance section.

So go out and save big with the after Christmas sales, and let me know what you find. I’d be more than happy to add some sale shopping to my list!

Have fun!

 Christine

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Dec 28

Healthy Recipe – Stuffed Cornish Hens

Posted on December 28, 2011 by Christine Wojdyla

So, in an effort to cut back after a pretty gluttonous holiday, I’ve signed myself up for Weight Watchers. Of course, that doesn’t mean I can’t eat an awesome meal. I just have to make it work for me. It’s all about finding a good healthy recipe or two.

Healthy Recipe for Two (or Four)

So last night I made stuffed Cornish game hens for the BF and myself. I actually made enough so that I would have leftovers, as I tend to eat them for lunch when the girls at ImIn.com aren’t going out to eat. I was looking for a healthy recipe that I could easily follow…After perusing the recipes online, I sort of just created my own. I was even able to use a couple coupons that I found on the ImIn Coupon Site for my dinner, to make it low cost AND low point. I pre-made the stuffing, so that it would be easy to come home from work, stuff the birds, and pop them in the oven. Best. Idea. Ever. (Can I hash tag that?)

Stuffing Recipe (4 servings/4 “points” each)

  • 3 cups corned bread stuffing
  • 1/4 cup red onion
  • 1/4 cup celery
  • 1/4 cup dried cranberries
  • 1 1/2 cups chicken broth
  • Fat free butter substitute spray
  • 1 tsp ground thyme
  • 1 tsp ground sage
  • 1 tsp crushed rosemary
  • 1 tsp white pepper

Cook the onions with the spray butter (or real butter if you aren’t trying to diet) in a large pan. Once the onions are translucent, add the celery and cranberries. Sprinkle the herbs and pepper into the pan as well. Stir to evenly distribute the seasoning. Pour the chicken brother into the pan and bring it to a boil. Lower the heat to low, and add the corned bread stuffing. Stir until the stuffing is fully coated and remove from heat. You can refrigerate this overnight or stuff the hens immediately.

Stuffed, Seasoned, and Ready for the Oven

So, the stuffing was already made (this weekend) to make this healthy recipe even easier for an after work meal. It worked out pretty perfectly. I got home by 6:30 and we were sitting down to dinner by 8, and I had an hour and 15 minutes to chill out and relax. Sweet success!

I got home from work and preheated the oven to 375. Then, I pulled out the two birds, and I made sure that they were defrosted. I cleaned out the insides, stuffed them with stuffing, and rubbed a little sea salt, garlic, and black pepper on top of each bird. No butter, no oil, just a simple healthy recipe for these tasty little birdies.

I cooked them for about an hour and 15 minutes, and they were ready. I served the birds with cheesy broccoli, and I’m pretty sure they were a hit. I managed to save half for my lunch today, but the BF devoured his. Not bad for a healthy recipe.

Enjoy!

Christine

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Dec 27

DIY Flavored Vodka with Skittles

Posted on December 27, 2011 by Christine Wojdyla

DIY Flavored Vodka

I’ve enjoyed my fair share of vodka, from the Skol/Aristocrat out of a plastic cup college days to the grown up Kettle and soda in a rocks glass days. So it’s safe to say that I’m a fan. A few years ago, my brother, the mixology master that he is, started making his own DIY Flavored vodka. Through the years, he has made several creations, including Bacon Vodka (long before it was sold in stores), Candy Corn Vodka, Spiced Vodka, and my favorite, Skittle Vodka.

As my DIY Tuesday gift to you, I will be sharing my brother’s specialty (and my fave!) DIY Flavored Vodka, made with Skittles. Trust me when I say this is super easy to make! In just five steps, you’ll have your very own DIY Flavored Vodka.  One of the coolest things about this is that you can use the inexpensive vodka, and it still tastes awesome. The “distilling” process actually makes the cheaper vodka taste better.

Items You’ll Need for DIY Flavored Vodka

  • 1-2 large bags of Skittles
  • 5 clear glass bottles
  • 5 coffee filters
  • 1 heavy duty rubber band
  • 1 large pitcher, measuring cup, or anything with a spout
  • 2-3 bottles of vodka

 Coupons for DIY Flavored Vodka

  • You can save a dollar on two Skittles Banks at Walmart with this coupon.
  • You can find really nice glass bottles at The Container Store with this coupon code

    You can find great bottles like these flasks at The Container Store

Step 1: Start by separating the Skittles into separate glass bottles by colors. It’s important for the look and flavor of the vodka that you keep all of the colors separated.Trust me, it’s going to be well worth your time.

Step 2: Pour vodka into each of the glass bottles over the Skittles. Put caps on all of the bottles, and shake them each generously. Leave the bottles overnight to let the candies dissolve into the vodka. You’ll want to make sure to shake these up every few hours or so for the best results. It will be colorful but cloudy.

Step 3: After about 24 hours, the vodka is ready for “distilling.” You’ll want to put the first coffee filter on top of the pitcher or cup, and tautly hold it in place with the rubber band. Pour the first candied vodka into the container through the coffee filter. All of the excess candy pieces that didn’t dissolve should remain on top of the coffee filter, while a brilliantly colored vodka pours through into the container.

Step 4: Clean out the original glass bottle to remove any extra candy pieces. Then pour the vodka into the glass and keep chilled in the freezer.

Step 5: Repeat steps 3 and 4 for each of the flavors of vodka.

Voila! Inexpensive DIY Flavored Vodka for your next party. Just as pretty as UV Vodka, but way tastier! Enjoy.

Salud!

Christine

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