A Bargain Shopper's Dream

Free IceCream!

2008-06-05T19:18:00.003-05:00

Umm, what is better than free ice cream? Especially on your birthday? I can't think of anything better, really.

Baskin Robbins is offering a birthday club now, which is fabulous because they send you a coupon for FREE ice cream on your birthday!

I just signed up now since my birthday is this month, so I am hoping to get this coupon soon.

Free Icecream...on your birthday...from Baskin Robbins! Fabulous!

Free DVD About Asthma Prevention

2008-06-05T19:01:00.004-05:00

I know many parents worry about their child developing asthma as children.
And, well there are different causes of asthma.

According to a source, It is not clear exactly what makes the airways of people with asthma inflamed in the first place. Your inflamed airways may be due to a combination of things. We know that if other people in your family have asthma, you are more likely to develop it. New research suggests that being exposed to things like tobacco smoke, infections, and some allergens early in your life may increase your chances of developing asthma.

This DVD is a great tool for learning a little bit more in what you can do to help prevent asthma for yourself and for your children!

Free Coffee!

2008-05-31T21:21:00.003-05:00

Do you want Two Free Boxes of Gevalia Coffee?

Free 30 Day Trial. With this risk-free trial, you can choose 2 boxes of Gevalia's decadent coffee at no cost and with no obligation to join! Awesome deal.

I HAVE to have my morning coffee. If I don't, my day will be off track and I will be one unhappy mama. Gevalia coffee is fabulous and if it is free, I'm all for it!

Also makes a good gift. Father's Day is right around the corner!

10% Off Already Reduced Prices--ESPIRIT

2008-05-20T17:37:00.004-05:00

For me, this is the best kept secret, ESPIRIT's outlet store. It is a place that I frequent quite often because of the awesome finds.

Now until June 30th, not only can you get fantastic deals on stylish fashion, but you get an additional 10% off your purchase online.

Here are a few of the hot items to get your hands on before they disappear:

Regularly: $39.50
Now: $7.99

Regularly: $39.50
Now: $17.99

Regularly: $29.50
Now: $9.99

Regularly: $79.50
Now: $24.99

There are a ton of accessories on sale as well! This is a great opportunity to get some awesome deals on a limited budget.

Welcome To The Jungle

2008-05-19T21:02:00.006-05:00

It is spring and my head is spinning. There are so many projects to do around our house and one of them includes a master bedroom makeover. Time to break out the paints and time for a big change!

I have always liked animal print and to actually decorate a room like this in a classy way is difficult if you settle for the Walmart's and Target's. I'm not saying there is anything wrong with Walmart and Target. It's just that Walmart and Target don't specialize in this sort of design.

The Jungle Store is one of my favorite stores for animal printed items and it isn't as expensive as you may think, since it is a specialty store. It's all about shopping for certain items at certain times of the year. That is the key.

Bed-in-a-bag is the way I like to go as you get everything together and you don't have to go through the trouble of matching sheets. And, most of the time, this will be the more affordable way to go.

Their price: $94.99 – $133.00

There are a ton of lamps and other specialty items you can add to your room to make it have that jungle feel.

Check out The Jungle Store today!

Not Your Average Drugstore.

2008-04-06T22:18:00.004-05:00

When shopping for bath, beauty or any other personal hygiene products, I do not know a lot of people who think to shop online. However, you would be surprised to know that often times you can find better deals online for these kinds of items than in an actual store like Walmart or Target.

I have one store online in particular that I like to check weekly for deals, Drugstore.com. Because I use hair products, bath products, and beauty products on a daily basis, it surely doesn't hurt to stock up on items, especially if they are on sale.

Drugstore.com

Spring Savings are being advertised now:

*up to 50% on select Multivitamins
*up to 55% off salon hair care
*up to 30% off select Dove
*up to 30% off Claritin
*30% off Seventh Generation
30% off select Mrs. Meyer's cleaning products

Other great promotions going on now include:

Airborne - Save $1
Kinerase -- Up to 30%
Allergy MD -- Save $4
lubricants -- Up to 40%
American Crew -- Up to 40%
Max Factor -- Up to 30%
Avalon -- Up to 20%
Method -- Up to $6
Aveeno -- Up to 30%
Mrs. Meyers -- Up to 30%
Banana Boat -- Up to 25%
Mucinex -- Up to 20%
Bed Head -- Up to 30%
Natrol -- Up to 30%
Born Free -- Up to 20%
Neilmed (Neti Pot) -- BOGO
Burt's Bees -- gift w/ purchase Neutrogena -- Up to 30%
Caress -- Up to 20%
New Chapter -- Up to 20%
Chuck It! -- Up to 20%
Nivea Body -- 25% off
Claritin -- Up to 20%
Nyquil -- Save $1
cleaning supplies -- up to 30% Off! -- Up to 20%
Clif -- Save $3 Olay -- Up to 25%
Clorox -- Up to 20%
Omron -- Up to 40%
Cover Girl -- Up to 30%
oral care -- up to $45
deodorant -- up to 25% P
epcid -- Up to 20%
Depend/Poise -- Up to $2
philosophy -- gift w/ purchase
Dove -- Up to 30%
Polar -- Up to $40
Duracell -- Up to 30%
Revlon -- Up to 30%
Earth Friendly -- Up to 15%
Seventh Generation -- Up to 20%
flea & tick -- up to 40%
shaving -- up to $70
Flexamin -- Up to 50%
Simple Human -- 20% off
garden & outdoor -- up to 30%
Slim Fast -- Save $1
Gerber -- Up to 35%
Sonicare -- Up to $30
Glad -- Up to 30%
suncare -- up to 25%
Greenies -- Up to 40%
Swiffer -- Up to 25%
hair removal -- Up to $30
Tylenol -- Up to 25%
Hawaiian Tropic -- Up to 25%
vitamins -- up to 50%
home medical -- up to 50%
Ziploc -- Up to 25%
Homedics -- Up to 25%
Wisk -- 25% off

And, many would say, well they can lower their prices because of shipping rates to create for an even balance. However, that is not true. Often times they offer free shipping with purchase of $25 or more.

The key is to check back at least once a week to check for new deals.
Save money, stock up, and Enjoy!

Shopping Confessions

2008-03-11T20:47:00.004-05:00

This is taken from the eBill website:

It's time to come clean. Tell us about your unique, devious, outrageous, funny or heartwarming secret purchase and every month, eBillme will hand out prizes worth a minimum of $1000 for video submissions, and $500 for text submissions. eBillme. Now that's a BIG incentive to confess!

eBillme will award monthly prizes of:

$1000 for best video submission
$500 for best text submission

Prizes will be awarded based on:

* The creative way you tell your shopping confession story;
* The originality of the concept;
* The general entertainment quality of the video.

Do you have what it takes to win? This sounds super cool and something that I could actually win! haha

How about you? I think I am going to try to enter this. It sure doesn't hurt to try. Some extra shopping money is always fun to have!

Have you joined the Revolution?

2008-03-06T22:43:00.003-06:00

Buy.com Revolution Card - Apply Now and get $50 off $51 your next Buy.com purchases exp 3/21/08

The next paypal? When new programs like this come out, it is hard to believe that they actually could be legit. However, the it "sounds too good to be true" philosophy does not hold true in this case.

Revolution has taken their business to another level, partnering up with Buy.com to offer you a bargain like no other. Apply for the Revolution card and get $50 off $51 your next Buy.com purchase.

A Taste of Home

2008-03-02T21:21:00.004-06:00

Create a personal cookbook with all your family's favorite recipes at TasteBook.com.

I am not a good cook. In fact, my husband always refers to the kitchen as "my kitchen". I frequently hear, "Get out of MY kitchen." Cooking isn't my forte, but I'm not a terrible baker.

On a lighter note, I do know plenty of people in my family who are wonderful cooks and I am thankful for that. I have accumulated a lot of tasty recipes that I have enjoyed with my family over the years.

And, to keep these recipes organized is often a challenge. The great thing about the Internet is the wealth of information available to us. Tastebook.com is a site that I came across that not only will help me organize all my recipes, but I also discovered that can put together books to give for gifts!

Here is some information taken from the Tastebook.com website:

* Design beautiful, personal cookbooks
* Organize all your recipes in one place
* Search over 25,000 recipes from Epicurious.com, Gourmet and Bon Appétit
* Share recipes with friends
* Discover new dishes in our Featured TasteBooks

A site definitely worth checking out!

Wally World + Free Samples= Genius

2008-02-25T19:55:00.008-06:00

Dove Cool Moisture Free Sample

Jergens Natural Glow Express--tanning lotion

Nutritioniste Ultra-Lift Deep Wrinkle Treatment

Healthful Life From Purina Cat Chow

Three Free Music Downloads w/purchase of Pampers Baby Dry

Poise Ultra Thin Pads w/wings

Check out these HOT free samples and get them before the supplies run dry!
I am convinced. Wal-mart is taking over the world!

Also, be sure to check out their Clearance items at Wal-mart. I am a huge fan of clearance items. Here are a few great Clearance items I wanted to share:
Limited Quantities! Clearance Savings at Walmart.com

Orange Print Zippered Canvas Tote Bag: Now $9.00

Nerf N-Strike Disk Shot Expansion Pack: Now $10

Hannah Montana's Closet Play Set: Now $22

Lil' Sport 6-Piece Layette Set - Newborn Boy (0-6 Months): Now $10

Oscar Style for Less--Under $100!

2008-02-23T20:28:00.007-06:00

I have always wondered what it would be like to walk the red carpet. You know, make that grand entrance on the red carpet, smiling for the cameras and experiencing the flashes of light and the oo's and ahh's of the crowd. There is just something about the beautiful gowns, the hair, the makeup and the overall festivities of the big night.

One of my favorite parts of the Oscars is checking out the star style on the red carpet.
And while us regular folk may not be able to walk down the red carpet ourselves, we can still shop for styles similar to those of the stars for events we may ready to attend, i.e. proms, social dinner parties, a night out on the town.

Get THE hottest dresses in the latest fashions, only at Rampage.com!

You can get Oscar-style and feel like a celebrity for LESS!

Check out these HOT, stylish finds.

Sexy Banded Drape Front Halter Dress
Price $58.00

Bubble Dress with Flowers
Price $58.00

Pleated Knit Dress
Price $39

All of these gowns can be matched with a black clutch and peep toe heels for a clean, complete look.

These gowns and many more can be found at Rampage.com.

These next gowns can be found on edressme.com. They include designer dresses for up to 50-80% off regular price. How cute are these?

Scarfprint Evening Dress $96

Chiffon Jersey Foil Print Trapeze Dress
Reg: $75.00
FINAL SALE: $40.00

Reg: $90.00
FINAL SALE: $50.00
Red Holiday Dresses

This is one of my favorite dresses!

Reg: $94.00
FINAL SALE: $74.00
Shirred Fly Sleeve Short Dress

eDressMe - dresses for all occasions

So, even though you will not be walking the red carpet, you can look fab in these gowns!

Hip Hop Sexy Style by Nelly

2008-02-17T19:08:00.003-06:00

Not all celebrity lines will cost you an arm and a leg and another arm. In fact, Apple Bottoms by Nelly is very affordable.

I had heard of Apple Bottoms, however, I wasn't quite sure it would be for me, being the Midwestern conservative dresser that I am. After looking more into the clothing line, my thoughts surely changed.
New Markdowns at AppleBottoms.com! Click Here!
I have $100 to spend. Here are my findings on Apple Bottoms.com:

Apple Bottoms Velour Pants:
Price: $64.00 (reg. price) On Sale! - $32.00
NOW 15% OFF - $27.20

Velour Active Jacket w/Snake Print
Regular price: $78.00
$39.00 on sale
NOW 15% OFF - $33.15

How adorable is this necklace?! This will definitely be added to my shopping cart.
This Y-Necklace w/ Stone Apple, Heart & Cross Drop
Regular price: $25.00
Now on Sale: $20.00

I very rarely just buy things for myself and because I found another good deal to fully spend my $100, I found a shirt for my daughter.

And, because what woman doesn't love shoes...check these out!

And, these HOT wedges!

What would you buy from Apple Bottoms?
New Markdowns at AppleBottoms.com! Click Here!

In the Internet Spotlight

2008-02-13T23:50:00.007-06:00

For many, the entertaining moments to watch on American Idol are the beginning auditions. Watching the show evolve and narrowing it down to the top American Idol is a brutal, excruciating process that gives us all that much more appreciation for the winner. This contest has become a phenomenon, making dreams for young wanna-be stars come true.

I cannot imagine going through that process. How stressful and trying it must be for those that hopes and dreams are to be a singing sensation.

In any case, I know that I will never be on American Idol or even try out for the show because I know trying out for the show would be a waste of my time and their time. Plain and simple.

I want to share a site that I came across that would be fun for those who would rather not stand in lines to try out for Idol and join a community who shares the same love for music. It is called American Idol Underground.
Submit Your Music Now for Guaranteed Online Airplay at American Idol Underground

To summarize, American Idol Underground is an online community where emerging artists get their music heard and fans discover new music to listen to. The cool thing about this site is, like the American Idol show, you get to judge and review the music you hear.

As a new musical artist, you will be featured in one of American Idol Underground's genre-specific music areas, which are also places to connect with your fans, and you get the chance to win cash, equipment and other awards. This is a pretty cool concept!

As a fan, you get to hear the next big thing before it becomes the next big thing. More importantly, you get a real say in what music gets heard. And if that's not enough, the most active and accurate music reviewers can also win prizes and awards.

Obviously, the songs that have the most reviews are the songs that are played more.

The chance for you to be a star is still there, just without waiting out in lines and in front of Simon, Randy, and Paula.

Check out American Idol Underground! It is free to join.

Source: American Idol Underground

Got a better ear than Simon? Click here to listen & judge!

Just Sweet

2008-02-09T13:25:00.001-06:00

When celebrities come out with their own line of clothing, I get excited, especially if it is a celebrity whose style I envy. (i.e. Gwen Stefani, Mandy Moore) However, it is when I find out that a shirt costs as much as the sofa in my living room that I shudder.

Until now have I been disappointed with the price of celebrity clothing line. It is with great happiness that I can celebrate as Jennifer Lopez, one of my favorite celebrity fashionista's introduces an affordable "JustSweet" clothing line.

It is described as a chic and sophisticated with a hint of boho.
It is a collection of sexy and ladylike dresses, tops, leather jackets, wool coats, printed hoodies, and cropped cardigans with interesting buttons that are sure to be a hit.

Here is a look into the JustSweet clothing line.

An Empire waist top w/sequins: Just $29.99.

Graphic tunic w/cap sleeves: Just $19.99.

Zip up-hoody w/fitted waist: Just $34.99.

This hoody is adorable.

Bianca Herringbone jean: $39.99

Bianca Trouser w/belt and sig pockets: $39.99

How adorable are these?!

Striped Mini Dress: Just $44.99

The JustSweet collection also includes some cool accessories, fashionable shoes, and great sale items. A unique feature of the site is the Just Sweet Look Book which shows you trends for the upcoming season.

Here is a coupon I found to help you save even more money by shopping at JustSweet.com.
JustSweet- Take 20% off orders over $125! Use Code: sweet20

Thank you Jennifer Lopez for making me believe in celebrity fashion lines again.

Win a $250 Shopping Spree from justsweet.com! & Look Great for '08! Enter Here To Win!

Flowers Deals Galore!

2008-01-31T22:50:00.002-06:00

The cool thing about these sites is that you can place your order now to have your flowers/gifts delivered on any specific day you wish. Often times, it is good to get orders placed a few days in advance if you want your flowers to be received on time, especially on Valentine's Day.

1-800-Flowers

Save $10 on Valentine's Day items at 1-800-Flowers.com! Use coupon code BST2 at check out. Click here to save. Expires 2/4

10% off exclusive coupon coupon code: MOMSV expires 5/31/08

Flowers & Gifts Qualifying for Same Day Hand Delivery (Exp Soon)
15% off Storewide (using VISA) Coupon Code: 33VISA (Exp Soon)
15% off Storewide (using AMEX) Coupon Code: AE33 (Exp Soon)
15% off Storewide (using CHASE) Coupon Code: 66CHASE (Exp Soon)

FlowerDelivery.com
Use coupon code fd during checkout to save $10 off your order of $50 or more.
Expiration: 12/31/2008

Martha Stewart Flowers
Save 10% on any order. Coupon Code: Athanks10 Exp. 2/13/08

Flowers and Gifts 15% off coupon code VALENTINE expires 2/1/08

Teleflora
Save 10% on all products when using coupon code afpx10 during checkout at Teleflora. See site for details.

FlowerStore.com
10% off any order
Expires : February 14, 2008
Flowerstore.com Coupon Code : ZK-8978

Uncle Sam Is My Friend

2008-01-29T21:42:00.000-06:00

Just a week ago the stock market hit a slump, one that could have been a major hit to our economy. As a result of this stock market scare, the government will be issuing refund checks to we the people of the United States of America. What the financial experts are hoping is that we citizens spend the refund checks on goods and services, putting the money back into the economy. The end result? A healthier economy. Sounds like a good deal to me. An additional $1200 would definitely come in handy once Spring arrives. In my mind, I already have it spent.

But, until then, I need to figure out if Uncle Sam will be treating me right this year as far as taxes go. Since I started a home business this past year, our taxes will be performed a little bit differently than last year. My husband was able to input our information via TurboTax and call it a done deal. Let me tell you, it was WONDERFUL. We didn't need to shell out a couple hundred dollars to have a "professional" number cruncher complete our taxes for us.

TurboTax Is The Easy Way To Do Your Taxes. Do your taxes for free with TurboTax Online Free Edition - Start Now.

TurboTax is user-friendly and easy to understand. In other words, you don't have to be a math genius to work with TurboTax. (If I could do it, anyone can do it.)
I recommend it to anyone.

In the meantime I have been patiently waiting for my tax forms to get here. I am expecting them to have been sent out the end of January.
Tax Simple claims to be well...simple.
Tax Simple offers online individual tax preparation and e-filing to 135 million people in all 50 states. Tax Simple also offers online tax preparation to 18 million Corporate, S-Corporate, Partnership, Fiduciary, Exempt, and Estate business entities.

Most of the tax returns take less than 10 minutes to complete, which is always encouraging when completing a yearly task as taxes. I personally have not used Tax Simple but from looking at the product, it is a product I would be willing to try and is similar to TurboTax.
Do your taxes for FREE with TAX$IMPLE - the only Form based tax software. Start Now - It's Easy.

Every year I have come out on top with my taxes, receiving money in return. My fingers are crossed for this year's return with hopes that Uncle Sam will continue to be my friend.

Scissors and Glue, I Love You!

2008-01-23T12:26:00.001-06:00

I've always been a fan of crafts. But really, who has time to break out the craft supplies anymore these days, besides the queen of all things home-making goddess Martha Stewart. When it comes to crafts, making time seems to be the biggest challenge.

Looking back at my elementary school days, I remember one of the most memorable arts and crafts activities was making our very own Valentine's Day box. Often times, there were contests on whose creation was the most creative, rewarding those parents, er, um kids who designed the best Valentine's Day box.

Since Valentine's Day is quickly approaching us, what better reason to get out the craft supplies than this holiday.

Here are some great books that I came across that have some great craft ideas and even fun Valentine's Day recipes for you to enjoy:

Valentine Treats: Recipes and Crafts for the Whole Family

Valentine's Day Crafts (Fun Holiday Crafts Kids Can Do)

Valentines: Cards And Crafts from the Heart (Snap)

Build A Bear Valentines Day Card Activity/Set of 20, Heart Shaped Lollipops Included!

When you decide to do crafts for Valentine's Day, it doesn't necessarily mean that you need to spend a lot on supplies to create unique decorations or that Valentine's Day box.

One of the great things I remember about making the Valentine's Day box is not needing a whole lot of supplies. In fact, you can make your box for less than $5.00 with construction paper, an old shoe box,aluminum foil, markers/crayons, scissors and glue.

Use your imagination to create a boombox, a mailbox, a boat, or whatever your heart desires. And enjoy the time with your kids and who knows maybe you could win that Valentine's Day contest for your kid, er help them win that contest.

Have fun making crafts on a budget!

*For the record, I do not encourage cheating to win any Valentine's Day box contest. I do support having fun with your child in creating a prize-winning Valentine's Day box. There IS a difference.

Another Reason to Party

2008-01-14T22:35:00.001-06:00

I'm not a big football fan. However, I do know the basics and I do know that this time of year is THE time for playoffs. Excitement is building to see which two teams make it to the "big show". To me, it doesn't matter who the teams are in the championship game, but rather the party itself. Any excuse to get people together to socialize, eat, and be merry is my idea of a good time.

So here's what I know. I am aware that the NFL playoffs are taking place and from what I hear the Packers are performing extremely well. As far as any other team, I have no clue, nor care.

I'm thinking OUR house might be the location of the Superbowl events simply because I caved in and allowed a 52" beast of a television into our living room. However, I will not disapprove as I, the party planner that I am, am actually looking forward to this year's events.

So, how can you plan a Superbowl Party without having to burn a hole in your pocketbook?

1. My first suggestion would be to make a list of everyone that you plan to invite to the party. Since you are hosting the event at your place, it wouldn't hurt to ask your guests if they would be willing to bring a specialty of theirs. For example, have John Doe bring some queso dip. Ask Susie Q to bring a couple bags of chips. Ask Mork and Mindy to bring the buffalo wings.

Depending on how many guests you have, there won't be a lot you will have to provide for them. If you are a guest invited to a SuperBowl party, be generous and ask the host what you can bring to the party to share with everyone. This is common courtesy and will make it a lot easier on your host.

2. Have a room dedicated just to the football watchers, simply because they aren't going to want random conversations as background noise to interrupt their game-watching. Perhaps, have a comfy room just for those who want to visit and munch on snacks.

3. Depending on how hardcore of a party planner you are, opt for decorations featuring colors of the two teams vying for the SuperBowl championship title. This is bound to create a very festive ambiance for your guests. Think color-coordinating napkins, streamers, plates, etc. You can find all of these items at a dollar store or at a party store.

4. Don't stress! This is supposed to be fun! Sometimes people get carried away with their parties making sure everyone is enjoying themselves. Don't get me wrong, it is important to make sure your guests are having fun, but you are supposed to have fun too! Stressing yourself out only leads to an unhappy host.

In close, when it comes time to host your SuperBowl party or attend one for that matter, remember your p's and q's. It isn't required that you be a football fan to enjoy the SuperBowl. It's just another reason to party and enjoy the company of others, both those screaming at the big screen television and those who would rather be dipping chips in queso.

V-Day: The Love-Hate Relationship

2008-01-11T10:23:00.000-06:00

It is a day some people dread with a passion. Lacy frills, pink and red hearts are displayed in stores, boxes of milk chocolate galore fill the shelves, and the over-sized teddy bears seem to get larger every year.

It is a day some people love or look forward to each and every year. Finally having someone to share this day with is inspiring in itself. Married couples know it is one of those days their spouse should never forget and expect flowers, jewelry, chocolates, a dinner at a restaurant or at the very least a Hallmark card.

Whether you love or hate Valentine's Day, it does come every year. There is always a constant--the merchants specializing in flowers, lingerie, balloons, chocolates, and stuffed animals do and will always adore this holiday claimed by St. Valentine.

Who loves Valentine's Day?

Well, Hallmark does of course, along with the other vendors who supply us with the gifts that make a woman smile. It is also safe to say that most women do benefit from Valentine's Day as well if they have a mate to shower them with gifts and love. Ultimately, men may beg to differ if all ends well and we aren't in bed sleeping before Jay Leno comes on television.

Want to get something unique for your Valentine this year instead of the good ole' standby roses or chocolates?

Here are my top picks:

1. Spa Gift Certificates: What woman or man for that matter wouldn't enjoy a day at the spa? This life that many of us seem to live is hectic and full of stress. The perfect gift is a service at the spa. Check out SpaFinder.com

Save $10 at SpaFinder.com in January!

2. Romantic Gifts.com: Unique gifts to make your significant other say "wow"!

Choose from bath gifts, games, gift assortments, and more! This is one of those sites you must check out for yourself!

3. Femail Creations:One of my favorite sites for gifts for women. This site is great even if you want to purchase a gift for a female's birthday or any other special day.
The most ideal gift for Valentine's Day would be anything from their spa collection like the Personalized Spa Slippers and robe.

4. Max and Chloe:
Designer fashion jewelry and gift certificates!
20% OFF at Max & Chloe. Use code AFF20. Valid through 2/28/08

5. Mrs. Beasley's: Those with a sweet tooth will no doubt LOVE this store.
Mrs. Beasley's offers one of a kind gifts for your sweetheart. Here a couple of Beasley's favorites.

And, if you don't have someone to share V-Day with, your day will come! There is always the option for girls-night in. Stop by the video store, rent some chick flicks, pick up some Haagen-Daas and call it a night! There are many more V-Days to come.

Deal or No Deal?

2008-01-04T23:34:00.001-06:00

If you saw me walking down the street with my laptop, you would think I was auditioning to be a model on Deal-Or-No-Deal. I may not have the legs or the "Hi Howeeeee" voice, but I sure do have the silver case!

After carrying around this hideous silver laptop case around, I have decided it is time for an upgrade. So, I've done a little bit of research to find the best laptop case for me. My dream laptop case would be hip, fun, light, durable, and affordable.

Here is what I have found so far:

1. eBags.com: The Messenger Bag
Get the latest eBags on site offers

*Click on Business/Laptops at the top of the screen in the categories section.*
It just so happens that eBags is having their big Winter Sale and most bags are anywhere from 50-70% off regular price. Depending on what you are willing to spend, you can really find the perfect bag with a decent price tag on it. What I particularly like about eBags is you can perform a search based on your brand and type of laptop and a list of bags will come up for you!

2. CareerBags.com: The Ultimate Career Bag
Looking for something a little more multi-purpose, yet fashionable? Readers, I give you the Diane von Furstenburg Color-On-The-Go bag.

It is incredibly lightweight, durable, stain and water resistant AND there is a pocket for your cellphone and/or blackberry. There are a lot of very unique laptop cases on this site and you are sure to find one that is unique and fashionable.

3. Rainbrooke: Colorful Style, Yet Functional

Tuscany Leather Laptop Bag. This bag is often referred to as part bag-part purse. Considering you would be able to pack your laptop, your files, your pens, your phone, AND your makeup is pretty impressive. Not only that you look good doing it. It cannot get any better than that! Rainbrooke offers free shipping on many items and guarantees their product.

Laptop cases do not have to cost you an arm and a leg either. All the sites I have found have reasonable prices on their products and have been proven reliable. The only problem I have now, is deciding which one I want to purchase.

4 Days of Shopping Left...Are you Ready?

2007-12-20T19:14:00.001-06:00

It has come down to the wire. Four days left until Christmas. It always seems to approach us quickly and now here it is! You better believe that there are advertisers that target those certain individuals for "last-minute" shopping offers. They have deals for you and they are ready!

The "Techy" On Your List

2007-12-15T23:20:00.001-06:00

Technology has become a big part of our lives and has become a significant part of our daily routines. If you take a look back at how far we've come technologically the past 5-10 years, it is simply amazing. Nearly everyone these days has a cellphone. Most everyone has a computer. VCR's are becoming a very rare commodity, while DVD players are quite commonplace. Ipods are the latest trend in music. Our vehicles can now even tell us how to get to our destination per GPS system. We no longer have to develop our 35mm film to only find out the majority of the pictures didn't turn out right. When choosing a television, we have many choices and the terms can get quite confusing if you don't do the proper research: LCD or plasma? Gaming has been taken to new heights. Do you have the latest system, the most sought after holiday gift this year, the Nintendo WII?

With all this to take into consideration, what IS the best gift to give to your techy on your list?

Check out this site to find all kind of cool gadgets and software for your techy.

This is one of my husband's favorites sites. Newegg is one of the leading e-commerce companies that focuses on providing a positive shopping experience and a broad selection of high-quality technology and entertainment retail goods at very competitive prices. And, competitive they are. Many items can be purchased at a great discounted price.

The name says it all. Find some hot buys for the season at Best Buy.

Now for some hidden treasures you may not be familiar with. Be sure to check out these great sites for discount consumer electronics and computer equipment.

onSale has numerous products that will suit any customer’s needs. Some of these products are: desktops, laptops, computer hardware, software, peripherals and accessories, and consumer electronics like digital cameras, MP3 players, surround sound systems, big screen TVs, and digital audio and video players.

PC Mall not only offers great deals on computers and PC's, but they also offer consumer electronics from LCD and plasma TVs to the latest MP3 players and iPods. Brands include: Adobe, Apple, Sony, IBM, Cisco, HP, Toshiba, Microsoft, Viewsonic, Logitech, Intel, Linksys, McAfee, Fujitsu and more.

The DIVA On Your List

2007-12-06T21:30:00.001-06:00

Women can't get enough of beauty, fashion, and makeup. In fact, women spend hundreds of dollars every year on beauty products. So, why not get that woman on your list something you know she will enjoy?

Take a peak at my store "hot-list" for beauty:

1. Beauty.com
Beauty.com sends free samples with every order.
*stocking stuffers
*gifts under $50
*One of my favorite part of this site is that you can shop by "personality". Check it out!

2. Elf Cosmetics:Site visitors can create their own beauty profile.
*Free shipping on orders over $75.
*Gift sets according to budget
*Great gifts under $5! (make great stocking stuffers)

3. Bath-and-Body.com:
Bath bombs are not weapons. The bath bombs from this store are amazing. They fizz. They smell nice. They moisturize AND soften your skin.
Bath-and-body also has homemade soaps, oils and massage, bath accessories, scented candles, gift sets, and more!

4. Buy Beauty.com:
*$1 Deals that aren't junk!
*Check out the Best sellers which include the popular TOO Faced Peep Show Eye Shadow set and the Models Prefer Makeup Palette & Brush Set. Many of the items have been reduced and they are offering free shipping.
*Name-brand fragrances for significantly less!
*I highly recommend this site.

5. Cosmetic Mall.com:
*Clinique
*Bare Escentuals
*Estee Lauder
*Chanel
*Lancomme
*Fake Bake
*Christian Dior
Need I say more? Cosmetic Mall has EVERYTHING.

Beauty lies within, but everyone knows that women love makeup, beauty, and fashion. Give the gal what she wants for crying out loud! Why not? It is Christmas.

That Hard-to-buy-for Person On Your Gift List

2007-12-04T23:14:00.000-06:00

Contrary to what the male species may think, women are by far the easiest to shop for during the holiday season. When you think of all the options there are out there, one's biggest decision would be narrowing it down to which one gift would be the best for that particular person.

Out of all women, my mother is probably the most difficult woman to buy for. If she has an urge to buy something for herself, more than likely she will go ahead and buy it.

When it comes to asking her what type of gift she would like for Christmas (or any holiday for that matter), her reply is usually, "nothing". That response is always a >great help and is one that frustrates me to no end. However, this year when asking her what was on her wish list, I received the response, "oh, a new car...or maybe a new sectional, a new house..". Since those items are not feasible with my budget, I am set right back to square one once again.

My suggestion for that "hard-to-buy-for" or that "who-has-everything" female on your list would be to make your gift personal, one that would not normally be purchased on their own shopping sprees.

What I recommend for THAT person on your gift list:

1. Zazzle.com: Infinite and instant, Zazzle is the only on-demand retail platform for consumers and major brands, offering billions of retail quality, one-of-a-kind products shipped within 24 hours.
You can create calendars, mugs, t-shirts, and many other products that are sure to be a hit!

Last year, I went to Zazzle.com and created a calendar for my mother. She absolutely loved it because it was pictures that I had taken over the past year of my kids and of our family. Personal gifts like calendars or mugs make great holiday gifts.

2. Femail Creations:

This is a site you must check out for yourself! The gifts from this site are one-of-a-kind!

Other hot places for getting that more personalized gift:

Personalization Mall:

Kodak Gallery: 20% OFF Photo books, Calendars & Cards at the Kodak Gallery!

Cafe Press:

When it comes to buying for someone, especially that hard-to-buy for person, it isn't the amount of the gift that matters. It is what comes from the heart! As cheesy as it sounds, it is the truth!

Making a List and Checking It Twice

2007-12-01T13:04:00.000-06:00

'Tis the season for gift giving and creating the trusty ole' Christmas gift list. Some of us write down our Christmas list in an organized fashion, while others choose to store those individuals in their mind. Years ago, I experienced what happens when you choose the latter. It is a last-minute shuffle to get that gift and cause for more stress than needed.

Personally, it is now extremely necessary for me to write each person's name down along with gift ideas for each individual next to their name. Once I locate a deal or purchase a gift for an individual, I simply put a check next to their name. This helps me stay focused and concentrated on each person on my list. Husband? check. Daughter? check. Son? Check.

I love shopping for others and finding the right gift for each person on my list. This year I have 15 individuals on my list that I will be buying actual gifts for, while the remainder of the list will be receiving Christmas cards. Creating that list isn't the difficult part, it is budgeting and searching for the right gift that is the challenging part.

Going on the third year now, the majority of my shopping will take place online. Taking advantage of the free shipping deals and other bargains many online retailers have to offer definitely can be worth it. And, if you can dig up the deals, you won't have to break the bank this Christmas or rack up your credit card debt in the process.

Is your list complete? Have you remembered your children's teacher? Your neighbor? What about your grandmother? Make your list, check it twice, and be sure to write down a few ideas for each person. Once you have looked over your list, it is time for the nitty gritty. The fun of finding those special gifts begins now!