You don't have to plan a trip to New York City or go into Boston to see a play. Community theaters in Reading and nearby Stoneham offer moms and dads alternative venues for a lot less money and free parking.  1.The Quannapowitt Players Inc., 55 Hopkins Street, is a volunteer-run community theater that has performed plays for more than 65  years. Housed in a 1900's historic red schoolhouse with capacity for 160 patrons, the Players host 5 full productions a year.   You can now see The Woman in Black, a drama about tragic secrets that lie behind the shuttered windows of the Eel Marsh House. …

When was the last time you went to a movie theater without children to see an adult picture? Have you had a chance to see the new movie, Lincoln Lawyers or is Rango, the only movie you have seen lately? Movies are a great way to escape to another world, get lost in a story or live vicariously through someone else. You could rent, but going there gets you out of the house. Whether you go alone, with a friend or a husband, just find a time when your children will be over a friend’s house or when grandma insists she takes the children for a couple of hours. If you are concerned about the high …

Exercise is good way to reduce stress as well as help keep your body healthy and toned. There are many choices out there, including using your own equipment, exercising to dvd's, joining a gym, and especially in the nicer weather; jogging, walking, bicycling and swimming. So here's a DEAL. Reading Athletic Club, 1 General Way, will be offering a savings of $109.90 on a month to month, no contract membership this Friday, Saturday and Sunday. The enrollment fee for new members will  be $49 (savings of $50), and you will also get 2 months free (savings of $59.9o). Reading Athletic Club is a …

Winter is winding down, but it is still cold and windy enough to wreak havoc on your nails—and, unless you were lucky enough to vacate to a warmer climate, your toes haven’t felt the outside air for a while. Spring is less than a month away, and it’s time to lose the UGGS for some really cute sandals. You may have realized the benefits of getting pedicures this winter, but it now is the time to get a pedicure to show off your toes. First you check your schedule, and then you find a nail salon.  This week’s deal is Nails Plus by Lisa, 288 Main Street, where you can get an 1 1/2 hour pedicure …

When was the last time you read a good book other than If You Give Your Mouse a Cookie or a technical manual or a magazine? Like most moms and dads, you probably visit the library with your children for programs or to explore some fun books, music and movies. But when was the time last time you actually went upstairs to the adult section to look for a book for yourself? If you need some motivation, joining a book group can be a great way to begin. In addition to reading new books, benefits include meeting people, participating in interesting discussions and obtaining different points of view…

Living in the Northeast can take a toll on your skin, especially in the winter months when the heat is very drying, and you are less likely to drink a lot of water.  A facial is a relaxing way to exfoliate, hydrate and restore balance to the skin. Recommended all year round, facials can benefit moms, dads and teens. A great place to go is Beauty and Beyond Skin Care, 22 Woburn Street, where moms can schedule a facial party with 3-10 of their friends at a cost of $45 per person. That price includes a 15-20 minute mini facial. Add refreshments and time to socialize, moms and their friends can …

You are trying to be the ultimate super mom who makes sure that your family gets out of the house each morning with the right clothes, breakfast, lunch and perfect hair.  That doesn't leave much time for you to get ready. Oh well, you'll just tell everyone you are having a "bad hair day" again. Here are two deals from Salon Fringe on Haven Street: one that will take you out of your stressful state, and another that offers a fun solution to those “bad hair” days.  "Every client gets a head message during his or her shampoo at Salon Fringe," said Owner Gary Hickey. He explained that it is all …

There are signs of  Valentine’s Day and Romance all over Reading.  You want to to be part of it, and that takes a little planning. Since the holiday falls on a Monday, you have the whole weekend to celebrate. So first you need to find a sitter; that will determine which night you go out. Next, where to go?  It’s cold outside, and you don’t want the hassle of looking for parking in Boston. Instead, you are searching for that one local romantic place to dine and relax with your honey. Patch heard that Venetian Moon Ristorante will be offering a Valentine's Day dessert special on Sunday and …