Weekend Sale Alert 2008-03-07 10:05:00 Spring is in the air and it's time to start getting the house in order. After a long winter, there is always something that needs fixing, replacing or updating. If you need to tackle some of those jobs this weekend, check out the deals at some of these big sales.
In addition to the great Skechers sale going on, there are lots of other great deals!
Sears Finally need a new fridge? Sears has an enormous selection of large appliances from all your favorite manufacturers.
Home Depot Something leaky? Something creaky? Something just plain broke? HD has everything you need for those nagging DIY jobs you have on your calendar.
Office Depot Is you office a mess? Get organized and restocked with a trip to Office Depot.
Ace Hardware Your Read more:Weekend
, Alert
Product Review: Boscia Blotting Linens 2008-03-06 14:05:00 Half way through the day, especially if I've been running around, my face feels less than fresh. My forehead looks a bit shiny and my makeup just doesn't look as good as it did in the morning. I'm not one to carry a big bag of makeup around all day to do regular touch ups. Though I'd like to look freshed faced all day, I just can't see ducking into the bathroom periodically to apply makeup. I think I've found the perfect solution - Boscia Blotting Linens
in Lavender. These tissue like sheets scented with soothing lavender, are great for getting rid of a little shine whenever the moment calls for it. They come in a small dispenser that fits easily in the slimmest clutch. Yesterday, at about 3, I noticed that my cheeks loo
New Product Review! Ted Gibson Hair Sheets 2008-03-05 16:02:00 Under strict instructions from my colorist, I refrain from washing my hair everyday. But in pursuit of being gentle to my tresses, I often fight limp locks and a finicky scalp by day three. While strolling through the aisles of Sephora (a dangerous walk indeed) I stumbled upon a box of Ted Gibson
Hair Sheets
marked "Try Me". I grabbed an individually wrapped hair polishing towelette and tossed it in my bag for later. After leaving Sephora I ducked into the ladies lounge to try out the hair sheets. Earlier, I noticed that my hair seemed limp and slightly stringy so I was eager to give it a lift. Upon opening the packet, I released the wild orchid scent and I knew I was in for a treat. Starting near my scalp, I gently dabbed my ha
Review: Target Go International with Jovovich-Hawk 2008-03-04 16:07:00 Exclusive Jovovich
-Hawk designs are now available at Target
- how exciting! The high fashion label, co-created by action actress Mila Jovovich, is known for sweet, feminine designs with beautiful vintage details. Target has translated these high fashion ideas into very easy to wear looks with a truly bohemian vibe. Look for pretty sundresses in floral prints and wide-leg dark wash denim trousers. As the weather warms up, these pieces are sure to fly off the racks, so take some time this weekend as your stocking up on home care basics and try on the high fashion finds at Target.
Click here to see what's available online at Target!
  Read more:International
Sale Alert: Skechers 2008-03-03 13:17:00 I have a pair of Skechers and they just won't go away!
I bought a pair of Skecher gym shoes almost 10 years ago (I'm not kidding) and they are in fantastic condition. The soles are intact, the stitching is in place, and aside from some dirt, they look pretty good. How am I ever going to find an excuse to buy a new pair of sneakers?!
Luckily, Skechers.com is having a 40% off sale right now. Whew! Now I don't really need an excuse. Remember, they have all kinds of shoes, not just sneakers. Though it's still cold outside, I might have to get a new pair of sandals too.
Check out the 40% off sale at Skechers.com!
Read more:Alert
Leap for Those Big Sales 2008-02-29 15:06:00 Happy Leap Year! Retailers look for any excuse to cut us a deal and Leap Year is no exception. Here is a list of some stores that are offering great deals this weekend in honor of our extra day.
Aeropostale Great clothes for tweens, teens and everything in between are on sale.
Shoes.com Find amazing prices on shoes for everyone in your house.
Bluefly Save even more than usual on the designer discount site!
OnlineShoes.com Didn't find the shoes you wanted on Shoes.com? Check out the sales on this site.
Arden B. Special occasions coming up in the spring? Find a great dress at this place.
Charlotte Russe Perfect prom dresses are available at this youthful shop.
ShopBop I shop at this online store all the time!
J&R.com Digital cam Read more:Sales
It's Thursday, Time to Get Lost! 2008-02-28 13:48:00 Watching Lost is like...reading trashy detective novels I pick up at the airport or eating Spaghetti-O's on the couch in my pajamas. There is nothing fine or enriching about it - BUT - I love it just the same. I wasn't a fan from day one, in fact, it might be an acquired taste for some. My husband and I decided to rent the first few seasons about a year ago on a rainy afternoon and we were hooked by the end of the pilot. Part of the allure must be the setting - a tropical island filled with plenty of food, shelter and white sand beaches. The show is great escapism on a frigid day in February. Needless to say, each Thursday
we make sure we're home and settled in front of the television for our weekly dose of Lost. But wait!&nbs
Product Review: Neutrogena Mineral Sheers 2008-02-27 15:40:00 So to begin my research on mineral makeup, I decided to start with the basics. I went downstairs to my local CVS in search of some mineral makeup. Surprisingly enough, just about every manufacturer had some mineral makeup offering. Brands like Revlon, Almay, L'Oreal, Cover Girl all had special lines of mineral based products. Now to be clear, these products include minerals in their ingredients, however, they are not purely mineral based, unlike more expensive brands like Bare Escentals which boasts pure mineral content. But, since we all can't spend tons of money on make up, I thought it would be a good idea to review all types of "mineral" makeup.
The first contestant is Neutrogena's Mineral Sheers foundation in Neutral to Medium.
The Bare Minerals 2008-02-26 15:51:00 The last time I went for a facial, my esthetician told me about "mineral make up". Mineral make up is just what it sounds like, make up made from finely ground minerals. She said that because it isn't filled with unnecessary chemicals -fragrances, binders, synthetic dyes -it's much better for your skin. She also said that mineral make up lasts much longer than conventional cosmetics, so you don't have to worry about touching up your face all day. It sounded like a really great way to incorporate more eco-friendly products into my beauty regime. But where do you get mineral make up?
It turns out you can get mineral make up just about everywhere -department stores, drug stores, even your Avon Lady has some! It's kind of a growing Read more:Minerals
End of Season Sales 2008-02-22 16:18:00 Everywhere I go, online and in my favorite stores, I see SALES, SALES and MORE SALES. Great winter items are on deep discount now so retailers can make room for new products. This means that while we continue to shovel ourselves out of snow banks and salt the walk ways to combat icy streets, we can save big money are all kinds of stuff that we can use right now! If you have time this weekend, look for discounts on things like hats, scarves, gloves, sweaters, and snow boots. You can find warm clothing for the whole family. If you're looking for new slippers (like I am right now) you'll find great sales too. Slippers are a great way to stay warm when you're at home trying to keep heating costs down on chilly days. Conserving energy and lo Read more:Sales
, Season
A Peek at Spring Trends 2008-02-21 12:25:00 The new trends travelled down runways around the world and a few ideas popped out that will certainly perk up your wardrobe for the coming warm months. Here are a few tidbits:Belt it out!
The “waist” is back. Trapeze dresses are adorable but now it’s time to show off your figure. A wide belt fastened high on the waist is an easy way to update your look. In fact, all kinds of belts are in fashion this season – skinny metal ones, rugged leather looks and shiny patent leather are all great options. Wrap one around a dress or cinch a long top to accent your curves. Target offers a wide variety of affordable belts in all the right shapes and sizes.Fun with floral dresses
Free and breezy floral patterned dresses are all the rage this season.&nb Read more:Spring
, Trends
Sale Alert: 50% Off at Drugstore.com 2008-02-20 15:09:00 Hundreds, and I mean, HUNDREDS of brand name health and beauty goods are on sale right now at Drugstore.com. It's amazing how many great products are available at such a good price. Aveeno, Burt's Bees, Philosophy, Bioloage, OPI, Kinerase, Tom's of Maine - the list goes on and on! Check it out today and stock up on your old favortites or try something new! My virtual shopping cart is almost full!
Read more:Alert
Oscar Time! 2008-02-19 16:08:00 Thankfully the writers' strike is over, though I don't know if my Tivo will ever fully recover. The Academy Awards are set for Sunday night, a perfect way to celebrate the return of the writers! So many great movies were released this year it will be tough to choose. Last year we went to an Oscar
party - complete with ballots - and we had a blast. If you're planning an Oscar party this year, you may want to do a little research on the subject to prepare. In addition to seeing all the nominated movies, buying a designer evening gown and purchasing that 50" LCD TV you've been dreaming about, why not watch the past winners! Okay, the Oscar dress and the $3,000 television might be more than you hoped to spend on this weekend, but buying
Even More Ways to Be Green 2008-02-18 14:45:00 It really seems like everyone is trying to find ways to live a more eco-friendly lifestyle. Today I was looking through the New York Times online and I came across yet another interesting article on "going green" - For Eco-Moms, Saving Earth Begins at Home by Patricia Leigh Brown. The article talks about how a group of moms are trying to look after Mother Earth in their everyday lives. Move over Avon Lady, Eco Mom is here! A new organization called the EcoMom Alliance, founded by Kimbery Danek Pinkson, calls women into action, encouraging moms to come together to find ways to reform, not only their own households, but even their communities. The EcoMom Alliance challenges its members to become EcoMom Leaders, host EcoMom Parties to su Read more:Green
Clean and Green 2008-02-15 16:12:00 I've been using Simple Green
all purpose cleaner for years now. It's great for so many things around the house - floors, counter tops, bathroom tile. It's a great household cleaner because it's got a nice mild scent and does a great job on dirt. Good Housekeeping Magazine, home of the "Good Housekeeping Seal of Approval", did a wonderful review of "green" cleaning products and it's available on their Web site. Many manufacturers are starting to produce environmentally friendly cleaners so GH rounded some up and put them to the test. Recommended products include Arm & Hammer, Essentials 2X Concentrated laundry detergent for super tough stains on clothes and Planet Ultra Dishwashing Liquid for your crusty pots and pans. Read more:Clean
Happy Valentine's Day! 2008-02-14 15:28:00 As I always say, when it comes to gifts, it is the thought that counts. So, if you've put off getting someone a gift for this Valentine
's Day, but you still want to give them a gift, here are some cheap and easy ideas.Do their laundry - wash it, dry it, fold it, and put it away. I can't think of a better gift!Make dinner. No reservations? Don't worry! Playing chef for a night can be fun.Burn a CD filled with "your songs". Choose songs from the year you met, or one for every year you've been together.Serenade someone with a ukulele. They are fun to play and simple instruments to learn.Pick up a book of Shakespeare sonnets or maybe a collection by Elizabeth Barrett Browning. Fill up their gym bag with Hershey Kisses with Read more:Happy
Hail to the Chief! 2008-02-13 16:10:00 President's Day is next Monday, February 18th, so it's time to start scoping out the big sales. Traditionally, we'll see a lot of retailers specializing in mattresses pulling out all the stops. So look for store circulars from places like American Mattress, Mattress World, Sleepy's etc. But a lot of other retailers are jumping on the bandwagon too. Even airlines are promoting discounted airfares! I've done some preliminary scouting to find the best sales coming our way next week. It looks like just about EVERYONE is offering a good deal.West Elm 25-25% off Select Furniture SaleMacy's 20-75% off Sale with and extra 25% of Clearance items. Coincides with Home Sale, so stop by and take advantage of the vairety! Kohl's Read more:Chief
Unique Alternatives to Flowers 2008-02-12 14:12:00 Fresh flowers make wonderful gifts. I just got a lovely bunch for my birthday from my parents and they still smell divine. There is something a little decadent and delightfully indulgent about a bouquet on a special occasion. It's a classic gift that can be perfectly tailored to the person you have in mind. Don't stress about the ideal Valentine's Day gift! Just find something floral and give the gift of Spring. Remember buying potted plants from local grower is a great way to make your gift environmentally responsible. Here are some ideas from some of my favorite florists and some personalities to match... Independent thinkers and unusual characters might love some plants like these. Hearty succulents don't need much attention Read more:Alternatives
, Flowers
Battle of the Flake 2008-02-11 15:01:00 As I've mentioned before, I have a rather sensitive scalp. The winter months really do a number on my head to say the least. After I wash my hair, my scalp dries up and the resulting "snow" is just too annoying. My hair is in great shape, but my scalp needs some serious help. My new brush has worked wonders, but I've also found another new product that I love. Bain de Terre Sugar and Fig Scalp Massage Scrub sweetly stimulates my scalp for truly sensational results. It comes in 6 tube packs to use whenever your head gets out of control. Before I lather up with a very mild shampoo, I squeeze this scrub onto my scalp at my hairline, temples, down my part and under my hair. Then, I massage the sugary goodness into my scalp Read more:Battle
, Flake
Is your hair worth it? 2008-02-08 14:21:00 I just got at new Mason Pearson hairbrush (thanks to my dear husband) for my birthday. It was about $130. Now, before you get all crazed and shocked that one would spend so much on such a small object, you should know a little bit about Mason Pearson brushes. Made largely by hand, these brushes, manufactured since 1885, are world renown for their superior construction. Properly cared for, these brushes can last for more than 20 years. Yes, $130 for a hairbrush is steep, however how many brushes will you buy in 20 years?The value of a Mason Pearson brush is not only in its durability. It actually is really great for your hair and scalp. I have really thick hair and I'm prone to a dry scalp in the winter. Since I've started using my new brush,
Valetine's Day Gift Round Up 2008-02-07 16:15:00 If Cupid's got you cornered this year, never fear. The Diva is here! I've got some ideas for you if need something for your sweetheart.Hate to dine out on such a crowed night? Stay at home and enjoy each other's company! You can create a whole "homebody" theme to your gift. A cozy robe in soft cotton, maybe some slippers and a great movie - a classic like Rebecca or maybe something scary, like The Shining. Complete the experience with a popcorn popper so you can live it up without leaving the house.Your sweetie's got a sweet tooth?! Organic chocolates or a giant heart shaped cookie will do the trick! Make the sweetness of your gift last the whole year long with a subscription to the Brownie of the Month Club!If he's ti
Brighten Up on the Inside 2008-02-05 16:19:00 As the snowy gray days begin to add up, it's easy to succumb to the winter doldrums. That's when I start to look around the house for home improvement projects and different ways to decorate. This week I found some incredibly beautiful wall coverings at Ferm Living. They make fine wallpaper in dramatic, nature-themed designs - white branches on a dark background, peacock feathers, blackberries and birds. For a more simple way to add new style to a room, check out the wall stickers. They would look great in a child's room or maybe in an office to add a little life. You can choose from whimsical owls or elegant bamboo and more. So, if you want to reinvent your interior and dispel those winter blues without spending an arm and a leg on fur Read more:Brighten
Valentine's Day with a Silver Lining 2008-02-04 16:14:00 Searching for a little something to give your guy this Valentine
's Day? Busy business men might find this classic accessory quite handy. Fellas with real panache will love keeping business cards nice and neat in a shiny silver card holder. Elegantly etched and monogrammed, a little case like this fits easily in a suit pocket or tucked in the pocket of a briefcase. Tiny pleasures like these make wonderful personalized gifts. Read more:Silver
, Silver Lining
Getting Ready for Super Bowl Sunday! 2008-02-01 11:59:00 The big game is this weekend, are you ready? To host the best Super
Bowl party, you'll need a few key items. There are a lot of great sales out there, so when you're shopping for supplies, be sure to take advantage of some great sales. In addition to the weekly store circulars available online right here on ShopLocal, I've put together a list of some things you might need and the good places to get them. PS for a good chili recipe that will serve the whole gang check out this post. A big TV We bought a 42" LCD from Samsung and we just love it! Feel like you're at the game with a new television. Sears and Best Buy are offering great deals this weekend. Not sure which one to get? Check out our buying guide on LCD Read more:Sunday
, Super Bowl Sunday
The Organic Way to Say "I Love You" 2008-01-31 16:10:00 Heart
shaped gift boxes filled with chocolates are a staple of Valentine’s Day
presents. It’s a great tradition that
could use a new twist. This year, why
not surprise your sweetie with scrumptious organic truffles! Beautifully decorated chocolates presented in lovely red heart-shaped boxes
are available at Organic
Style.com, a great site for all kinds of eco-friendly
gifts. Pair a box with a bouquet of
organic roses (also available on the site) and you have the perfect way to say
"I love you".
Late Season Coats...by Request 2008-01-30 16:40:00 Yesterday I found a comment from my Aunt Eva (cute, huh!) on my blog. She loved the Lego Venice, but also had a question about finding a good winter coat. She's going to a winter carnival and needs a very warm, yet fashionable coat. Midwestern winters are pretty harsh, so to stay warm it's important to find a coat that's made of warm material and long enough to protect your body from the elements properly (a short jacket might be cute, but cold winds will make you pay). Luckily, it's late in the season, so many coats are on sale!I've found three great options online today that might fit the bill. Check them out!I bought this coat with a Thinsulate lining which really helps keep me warm. The high neck blocks a lot of cold air too. It Read more:Season
, Coats
Happy Birthday Lego! 2008-01-29 16:09:00 Fifty years ago the Lego Brick was invented and since then, children around the world have enjoyed building their dreams one block at a time. It's amazing that so many intricate designs can come from such a simple piece of plastic. Legos can be anything from fairytale castles to Transformers. It's truly a perfect gift for kids of all ages. So folks, the next time you need a birthday gift for that little someone, don't forget your old friend LEGO!Just look at what you can do with Legos! The photo below is of a complete model of Venice IN LEGOS! Read more:Happy
, Birthday
, Happy Birthday
Let's Get Cooking for Game Day!! 2008-01-28 16:26:00 The Super Bowl is finally here! Even if your home team didn't make it to the big day (better luck next year Bears), Super Bowl Sunday can be a great excuse to have a party. So, if you're playing host this year to 5 or even 25 hearty sports fans, you'll want to cook up something tasty and plentiful this Sunday. Check out the recipes below, pick the one that's best for you and dig out your crock pot, it's time to start cookin'!Chili Con Carne from Infraredherring This basic recipe is coupled with the how to's on cornbread as well. A match made in heaven!Turkey Chili with White Beans from A Tasteful Journey No one will call "fowl" when you serve up this lighthearted chili.Chocolate Stout Chili on Use Real Butter Some recipes use be
Send Your Love! 2008-01-25 15:30:00 Valentine's Day is just around the corner, so you'd better start planning something good for your sweetie. Letterpress cards are a beautifully simple way to say I love you. You might not find them at your local CVS or Walgreens, so I've found some really great options online.Hello Lucky makes adorable cards with sweet sayings and cuddly animals. I love the clever cards by Paper + Cup. Charming and elegant! If vintage is your thing fred flare carries cute cards with a bygone bent.
Bright Idea 2008-01-23 17:08:00 I love Style Saves the World, it's such a great "green" blog. Yesterday she wrote about some wonderful Kobo Candles available at Sprout Home. I bought one as a gift for my mom last year, the Manchurian Dragon Fruit Candle, and she loves it! It's a delicately scented candle that burns a long time and it comes in beautiful packaging. The candles are created from domestically made soy wax with enviro-safe cotton wicks so they burn clean with no soot. They look great in a bathroom or a bedroom! Read more:Bright
, Bright Idea