Take heart it’s not too late to get a personalized gift for your favorite valentine. Capture those special moments for your loved one. Use your own photos, video clips, and your special song to create a customized valentine. Make a 30 second valentine video from Animoto® for FREE! Or full video for $3 or unlimited videos for a year for $30. You choose!
What”s more romantic than floating candles, bubble bath, and fragrant lotion? How about stepping from a warm bath into the arms of your love holding a luxurious bath sheet? A-a-a-h-h!
Bed Bath & Beyond ® has a deal on luxurious Tropical Retreat Bath Sheets in 100% rubbed cotton, 30″x62″. At $9.99+sh, a fraction of the regular price, your honey will enjoy the bright colors of the Caribbean in Hot Pink (shown) or Aqua.
‘A little piece of Paradise, don’t you know, man!’
Zowe-e-e-e! Hot,hot, hot–too hot to touch!♥We Love Colors™is the finishing touch to those fab tunics, dresses and boots. You can find a rainbow of colors and designs in tights, leggings, thigh highs including organics and custom designs by Caroline Gey. All sizes from small-4X. Pull that hot look together and sit back and rope in the compliments. Knee highs, thigh highs, leggings, tights and more, prices vary $3.50+ Also, children and men.
Natural gemstones are all over the home shopping networks. Particularly hot is designer Deb Guyotadding extra sparkle with multi-faceted, chunking quartz and incorporating other precious materials like pearls into her designs.
One hot item has been her quartz twisted necklace and bracelets. If you buy a designer original or fromHSNexpect to pay $200 +up and well worth it given the amount of gemstones.
However if you just want the sparkle without the big tag price, MarkdownMom found a great substitute necklace chunky, mega sparkle in multi-faceted plastique colors offered onyx, blues/purples multi, or MarkdownMom’s personal favorite,clear, for $10! Instore at WalMart.
The hottest nail colors in Paris this spring are the soft colors of Jade and Jade Rose by Chanel. The bad news is that both are currently sold out. However, Markdownmom has found comparable colors at better prices–so instead of paying $25, markdownmom’s selections are $8 or less.
OPI and its’ sister Nicole can match their more expensive competition.
Go On Green by OPI is their jade counterpart for $8, better price at Amazon, on sale $5.99. Respect the World is a more intense jade color by Nicole®for $7.95, and Enchantress is an opalescent rose with lilac. Essie® offers up their hot new color, Mint Candy Apple,slightly paler jade color, and Mademoiselle for that rose look, $8 ORPure Ice®#920 Taupe Drawer & #616 Pure Ice Wild Thing. More green than photo, deep lime green. In store at Walmart, price varies, MarkdownMom found it for $2.00.
Out & About. MarkdownMom says if you want deals on apparel now is the time 2 shop until you drop! It’s worth braving the cold to get these hot bargains at the mall:
Macy’s. Selected items by Beyoncé. Apple Bottoms, Calvin Kline, Jones New York , Karen Scott and more 80% off! Other racks have Tommy Hilfiger long sleeve shirts under $7.00! If your Macy’s has a Marketplace. take a time out to renew your energy and try their Seafood Louie with a glass of raspberry lemonade–simply delicious!
Lane Bryant®. For gals sizes 14 & up they are having their Gold Dot Sale , take an additional 50% off of markdown price. Plus 50% off sweaters.
It’s fun to have company over. Okay, it’s fun to have selected company over. The number not only depends on how popular you are, but how much space you have. I mean it’s okay to have people standing if you are serving only refreshments and appetizers–even then someone is bound to want to sit down on something other than the floor. Really, some people’s kids! What to do?
One of the easiest solutions is to have furniture that can do double duty, and classic furniture that can go with almost any decor. MarkdownM0m located this classic essex table at a terrific savings at The Company Store®, reg.$199, sale of the day price $58.99-70% off!
With its’ green mango wood and distressed black finish and stainless steel legs it will compliment any home decor. This table can be used as an end table or pair them toge her as a coffee table, plus they can give you additional seating when you need it. What a great look and functional, too. Price only good for today.
Ever plan a Spa Day? No? No time and it can be expensive. However, you can find some time to pamper yourself at home without breaking the bank. How? Well how about beginning with luxurious, wonderful bath soap?
At Bramble Berry®you can get supplies and make your own signature soaps with the wonderful sounding names such as Clementine Cupcake, White Tea & Ginger and more. Or you can buy some already made in quanties of 1 oz. and up. Another option that MarkdownMom found that appealed to her bargain hunting instincts was the periodic sale of Bramble Berry’s Grab Bag that contains $30 worth of spa soap supplies for $15.00!
Perfect way to get your feet wet if interested in soap making as a business, or for personal use and special gifts.
Luxuriate this Valentine’s Day and Let Your Joy Bubble Over!
Pearls are always in fashion and there are so many types that you can pick from. Of course, there are the perfect akoya strand from mikimoto or the tahitian or south seas saltwater pearls are the classic and keepsake pearls and cost mega $$$. However, designers have been mesmerized by the luster and radiance of pearls and have discovered the less-than-perfect pearls and incorporated them into fabulous designs. Keshi, mabé, BIWA, potato, baroque, rice or seed, button or blister pearls are entering the fashion world of haute couture.
Also, large chunky rings are so-o-o in as we save money by updating our present wardrobe with accessories.
MarkdownMom found this large blister ring that marries the edgy pearls and chunky ring in a look that definitely spells runway hot! At Overtock.comfor $38.99+sh.
FYI: Weekend Sales Review is updated throughout the weekend…
Sharper Image: Electronic innovations for everyone in the family and every room in your house. Technology to make your life easier, interesting, and healthy. 10% off everything. TODAY ONLY 01/22/2010. Offer expires at midnight.
4WD®Hardware: Want to get your man away from the tube this weekend? Tell him about this sale on Jeep parts & accessories. Save 15% sitewide on selected Jeep products. Sign up to win a Jeep, too.
Michaels. Calling all crafters. 25% off entire purchase this Sunday, 4-8 PM Coupons. Part of their January Madness Sale.
Newport News. Fashions and accessories. Clearance under $25, pick your savings! Save up to 85% off cold weather clearance items.
ShopNBC:5 Value Pays on everything. Part of their New Decade Weekend Celebration!
J&R. Over 100 weekend sale deals. Play your tunes in style!
Luggage Online.Free Shipping + Take 20% off site-wide. Here’s your chance to travel in style.
Ticket Network. Save on $10 on $200 NFL Tickets, use promo code: NFLSAVE10. Special shows: use promo code; BWAYSAVE10.
Cooking.com®. Last chance to save up to 40% off Rachael Ray Exclusive Sets like roasting dishes a nd bakeware. Prices good through January 31,2010.
Mikasa.10% off clearance--4 days only. Check out their “ Deal of the Day,” up to 80% off.
Coldwater Creek Outlet. Up to 85% off everything in outlet. Check out knit duster, boyfriend sweater without the sleeves.
Charles &Marie. Specialty store with edgy and quirky items. Up to 70% off Menu Sale. Like a cell phone charger tray, reg.$50, menu sale $19.90-neat idea!
Parent company Macy’s is opening outlets on the east coast for its’ high end store, Bloomingdale’s. The new outlets initially to be located from New York to Florida will carry clearance apparel and accessories.
This is a new trend for luxury stores and now Bloomies joins the ranks of Neiman Marcus, Saks, and Nordstrom in catering to a clientele like MarkdownMom who hunt for deals to live elegantly on a budget. Obviously, this is a reality check for retailers that traditionally cater to an upscale clientele in these tough economic times, but for frugalistas and fashionistas alike– get your running shoes on!
Valentine’s Day is coming soon, and, yeah well flowers and candy are okay gifts, but sooner rather than later they are either consumed or dead. However, gold is forever!
ShopNBC has this fantastic bargain of a 30″ 14K Colors Of Gold Singapore Chainreg.$80, steal at $59.00 on 5 value plays of $11.80+sh. And how about this, it comes in the super fashion colors of chocolate, green, rose, white and gold! 2.0 grams. It doesn’t get much better. Drape it, knot it, and it’s gold, Italian Gold! How good can it get?
Don’t trust your guy to remember, or in between love interests? Do what MarkdownMom did, buy it for yourself. I mean, it’s gold, real gold!
Did you ever remark that some people have that glow about them? Well, you don’t have to get pregnant to exude that. Coming from Down Under this Australian-born artist , Napoleon Perdis, has brought glamor back to Hollywood.
Catering to many celebs, he developed his new NP Set line forTargetthis past summer. Markdown Mom has tried his Liquid Veil, $14.00, that adds that special pearlized highlights to your face–you may want to add it to your shoulders for an extra sparkle when you wear shoulderless tops/dresses!
Try his entire line offered online atTarget. Moderately priced for that expensive Hollywood glam look.
Even the most frugal of us likes a sweet goodie or two, and if you have the time to try your hand at pastry, here’s how to make homemade and save big bucks!
MarkdownMom visited the store forNordicware®, a store located next to its’ factory in Minneapolis. Famous for their bundt cake molds and mixes, you can buy nordicware cookware at 10%-30% off retail, and if you go to the far left wall as you enter the door, you will find their markdown area with 50% off and more. On her visit MarkdownMom picked up a shortcake pan at 50%off and premixed bundt cake mixes for about $3.00.
Plus if you are new to baking or want to hone your skills further, they offer instore classes. There’s nothing better than homemade, and now you can cut your costs even more at this factory store! When you do, tell them MarkdownMom sent you.
One of the noblest ingredients that make up the American Spirit is generosity, especially for those in need. Whether it’s at home or abroad, even the most strapped of us will dig deep to give what they have to help others in dire circumstances. The earthquake that occurred in Haiti, the poorest nation in this hemisphere, demands that all of us, who can, answer the call and give what we can. MarkdownMom encourages you to join her by making a donation of money at theCLINTON BUSH HAITI FUND.ORG.
Maybe you don’t qualify for an appearance on What Not To Wear, but you could use a little update. How can you do it on a budget? Well, you can shop the sales like MarkdownMom–and here’s a great sale.
Fashion Bugis having its’ End of Season Clearance Sale with savings up to 66%+off. Now you may think that this sale is only for our plus size gals–au contraire! MarkdownMom found this hot look of a long knit cardigan–boyfriend style, in misses sizes S-XL, reg.$19.99, on sale $8.00, in red, charcoal, and black.
Plus if you have a Fashion Bug credit card, take extra 15% off your entire purchase through February 9, 2010. Savings can be found in every department including 50% off bras, and $10 jeans! However, MarkdownMom really like the buys on sweaters.
Markdown Mom Says: For Misses and Plus Alike, you can update your wardrobe at bargain basement prices!
The buying power of many outweighs the buying power of few. This is not a new idea, the big retail chains have always been able to get price breaks over the small mom and pop businesses. Small businesses in recent years have joined together to get deals on health care insurance for employees, though I am not sure that “deal” and health care insurance belong in the same sentence. However, I digress. Well, we have seen buyers enter into clubs to get deals on products. Hold that thought or rather extend it with GROUPON.
This online site offers free membership to buyers interested in their special deals of the day and they can be fantastic deals. If a number of buyers are interested in a particular deal on products or services, sort of like a reserve, then the buyer can purchase it at the deal price to be used later. This encourages you to get your friends in on the deal as well, the more the merrier. Diversified selection of deals, anything from Bagels to Gym services.
Plus it has a business component by offering to small businesses an opportunity to offer a deal of the day and thereby increase their clientele and their sales. Win, win for both consumer and business entity!
Offered at present in major metropolitan areas, MarkdownMom foresees expansion and continued growth for this site.
6 Tbspns. Kosher Salt or Coarse Mediterranean Sea Salt
¼ tspn. of paprika
1 tspn. dry mustard powder
2 Tbspns. ground black pepper
1 Tbspn. dried onion
1/3 Cup granulated sugar
3 tspn. Old Bay Seasoning (sh-h-h, secret ingredient of MDM)
*******
Method:
1. Mix all ingredients together in a bowl, then apply to spareribs, babyback ribs, or country ribs by rubbing with hands on both sides of the meat. Put into a sealed plastic bag or marinating container to marinate in the refrigerator..
2. Marinate the ribs, in this case country ribs, overnight or 4-6 hours in the refrigerator and place on a stove top grill, or outdoor grill and sear both sides.
3. After coating with bbq sauce, cover with a lid or wrap completely in foil.If using an oven cook for 1-1½ hours at 350°-400°. Please note that the time and temp will depend upon your oven and the amount of meat used. Additionally, for grilling wrap the meat in aluminum foil. Grilling temp and time can be affected by outside wind temperature and whether you use a charcoal or gas grill. It’s important to check meat periodically to see if it’s cooked through.
4. Remove the seared meat from grill and coat with your favorite BBQ sauce.
Can’t afford a $2000 mangle like Martha has? The next best things to it is the Conair® Fabric Presser. Now you can make short work of pressing those linens, slacks, sewing projects, and it’s on sale today at JCPenny’s. This machine comes with steam settings that takes out all those wrinkles! Also includes wet and dry pressings. Presses 3 times the surface of your iron and folds & locks for convenient storage. Reg. priced $149.99, steal priced today only $49.99.
Plus at JCPenney’s take anextra 40% offoriginal prices online and in the catalog and an extra 10% off sale prices–sorry this won’t apply to wednesday steal price. Use promo code: WOW40 at checkout. It doesn’t get much better than this.
Great way to make short work out of ironing, and gain more time for fun this summer!
You want to be a gourmet cook especially in the summer time when the great outdoors beckons wonderful gatherings showing off our grilling talents. But for some of us, well-l-l, let’s just say there are those of us for whatever reason, lack of interest, no time, no sense of smell are tastefully challenged.
Now these great new seasoning sheets offered at NapaStyle takes the guess work out of how to flavor your steaks, seafood, or any kind of meat. Magic Seasoning Sheets provides the spices to marinate your meat in without any mess or prep work. How cool is that?
For $12.00 a packet of 12 sheets or 3 packets for $32.00+sh, spice your meal with lemon peppercorn, Tuscan roasted garlic and herb, or Memphis BBQ Gourmet sheets. Marinating only takes 30 minutes in your refrigerator. Then steam, grill, broil, or sautée as desired and sit down to enjoy all the compliments!
Here are some suggestions for saving money on your bakery needs for every level of expertise.
1. If you are sick and tired of paying $3.00-$4.00 for a loaf of bread, now is the time to look for those discount bakery outlets. Usually they have a special line of goods from Taystee Bread, Sara Lee, Hostess, and others. These are overstocked–not only do they offer discount prices, but usually have some daily or weekly specials. Many have a free club membership where you get your card punch for each minimal purchase. When you fill-up your card, you usually get a $amount of items for free.
2. Check your local bakery for day-old merchandise. Rolls, bread, and sweets can usually be purchased for half their price. Trying hitting these places on Monday since what the bakery didn’t sell over the weekend, will be discounted and this is the time for the best selection of day-old products.
3. Want fresh baked goods, but don’t have a lot of time to spend with cookbooks, measuring, etc.?Then look for markdown mixes. Markdown Mom has found a number of items not only at Target for their Archer Brand mixes, but at Goodwill since Target sells many of their overstock items to them including bake mixes. Always check to see if the package has been opened.
4. Speaking of mixes, check out deals at online stores likeKing Arthur Flourthat for the next 4 days is giving a 25% discount on mixes when you buy 10 or more. Look for these specials, well worth the shipping costs.
5. Finally, now is the time to get out your breadmachines. Do you know that a 1 lb. loaf of bread can run you 40¢ a loaf instead of $4.00! Don’t have a breadmachine, check out your local thrift store, Markdown Mom found a used Zojirushi Mini Bread Maker for $3.99! Works fine. You can get the instructions and recipes online for most machines. To save even more money check with your local Whole Foods Store and take advantage of buying flour in bulk. Don’t want to mess with measuring, etc., you will still save money by buying the bread mixes from your local grocer.
Think of all the money you’ll be saving, plus the smiles on your family members’ faces!
The retro look has been popular for several years now in home decorating. I’m old enough to remember a chenille bedspread on my bed that had a dancing ballerina. Chenille bedspreads are a great summer look for any bedroom. Although the more intricate colored patterns are more collectible, I like the plain one color versions for elegance and simplicity in a room. Now the DIY decorator has options for getting this look.
Ebay®. Ebay has a diverse selection of vintage chenille bedspreads. You can get some real bargains, but again you have to savvy and quick in your bidding. Don’t forget to look at chenille material for making coordinated pillows or lampshades. The Vermont Country Store®sells reproductions of vintage chenille bedspreads ranging in price and according to size from $69.95 up. Nancy’s Notions® carries the notions to make your own chenille quilts,apparel, and accessories. You can create your own original to be cherished as a keepsake for years to come.
Just in time to capture all those summer memories. Great new site for editing all your photos and putting them into scrapbook order. Picnik.com offers unlimited creative opportunities for the scrapbook aficionado, family historian, or photographer. And now you can register for FREE, and start your own collection!
If you are looking for that special conversational piece, why not find it on sale?
Markdown Mom found these eclectic copper wire stools atThe Company Store®that are not only interesting, but are versatile. Choose from small 15 3/4″ d x 12 1/4″ h or large 18 3/4″ d x 12 1//4″ h, reg. $89.00, on sale $34.99 and use them as stools, extra tables, ottomans, or flip them over for a pot for plants, or a container for your magazines, what have you.
Great with any decor from mission, danish modern, or just quirky!
Le Creuset, one of the premier lines of cookware, is having 100 In 100 Contest to introduce its’ new Try-Ply Stainless Steel cookware. Each day until August 4, 2009 it will draw one winner to receive an item from this exciting new line of cookware from Le Creuset. Enter now and see if you win, must be 18 years of age.
We’ve all seen different boxes for recharging up our cell phones, MP3 players, but JCPenneyhas got it right with this one, a complete charging station with bulletin board/magnetic board, adjustable shelves, stereo speakers, and loads of connectors for all your electronic gadgets!
Hurry, the steal price of $79.99, reg. $299.99 is only good today, Wednesday, June 3rd!
And well, it only comes in white, but if you want to have it go with your decor, remember spray paint. Great gift for college bound grads, too!
Summertime spells summer fun. And for bargain hunters nothing is more fun than sidewalk sale days. Recently the Markdown Chics attended Grand Days in St. Paul, Minnesota. This is an annual event that takes place around the first weekend in June and is a great opportunity to explore sites that are close by, in fact, in your own neighborhood!
Families, couples, and friends of all ages and their pets walked the 3-mile stretch between Cleveland Avenue and Dale Street on Grand Avenue in St. Paul, Minnesota’s highland park district for Grand Old Day–the largest one-day festival in the Midwest.
The event started at 7:45am and ended around 5:00pm. Over 150 food and merchandise vendors and several entertainment venues lined the streets. Some of the highlight’s from this year’s event included several musicians such as a couple of didgeridoo players, a fiddler, a mariachi and a rock band.
Several food vendors that frequent the state fair were also there such as mini-doughnuts, corn dogs and brauts, gyros and other ethnic foods, ice cream and smoothies. And many artists were selling tie-dye shirts, jewelry, hand-carved furniture and masks. This event happens only one-day during summer, so mark your calendars for next year!
Is hot, humid weather your enemy? Does your hair fall flat or look like you stuck your finger in a light socket? Tired of having to fight with your hair every morning? For the best hair spray to tame that wild mane of yours, Markdown Mom swears by Giga Hold ™Freeze Ultra Intense Hair Spray by Salon Grafix.
This hairspray is great for all the updo’s for those special events like proms, weddings, or for any style that you want to defy gravity. Get it from$7.50up at Amazon, and never go flat again!
Smoked fish is a delicacy in many countries and the scandinavians have their own version of lox with various smoked fish. In our own backyard, one of the best resources for delectable smoke fish is Russ Kendall’s Smoke House in Knife River, Minnesota.
Located at 149 on Scenic Highway 61, Russ Kendall’s Smoke House has been a family owned store since the 1920’s and is known far and wide for their smoked fish that includes trout, salmon, whitefish, herring, ciscoes, and other seafood delicacies. Markdown Mom especially recommends the trout smoked in brown sugar. Contact them at 1-218-834-5995 to place mail orders.
Smoked fish can be a great addition to any buffet. Elegant enough for a wedding reception, or an appetizer for any occasion.
A-h-h-h the convenience of the technology wonders of the world! They hook us up to friends and information around the globe, they make fixing our meals easier, housework more convenient–and increase our home insurance or renters rates! How? Well come on, with all those wires strewn around our home or apartment it creates an environment where accidents are waiting to happen. If you are like most of us with too many of these wires just hanging, tangling, and tripping you up, them Markdown Mom has found a great resource to help you in to untangle your life, one cord at a time!
Flatwire Ready. comis as they claim the invisible wire solution. Thin, flat mounted to any virtual surface, paper thin, and flexible. Qualities we all admire. You can supply your audio, video, data, and selected lighting electrical needs without paying any expensive installation costs. Great for the homeowner and renter alike!
With a number of ideas in the hopper, this innovative company is not only great for consumers–especially DIYers, but investors as well!
An accessory to a hot, hot outfit, believe it or not, are your nails. Whether your own or an acrylic application, you are not fully dressed until you dress up your nails. One of the best ways Markdown Momhas found is with nail polish from Nicole by OPI. The coverage is super and comes in both a nail lacquer and easy to use, self-contained sticks. Preferred by the best manicurists in super delicious colors. In stores at Sephora and Target, plus available at Amazon andDrugstore online, and other fine stores from $7 up.
Sprucing up your home can be expensive project in these days of tight money. However, one of the most cost-effective redecorating projects is painting. Using a good roller makes all the difference in painting a room. You want to spend a little money so that you get the right nap for your paint application and here is one place you don’t want to cut cost on quality. The most expensive part of any redecorating or remodeling is labor, so if you are doing it yourself, splurge on supplies. Buy the right roller of good quality. This will save you time and money because nothing is more aggravating than picking off ‘fuzzies’ left in the paint by the roller!
However, another way to save on this project is recycling your roller by cleaning it. One of the best ways Markdown Mom has found to clean your roller efficiently is with a Roller Washer. As easy as 1-2-3 with this outfit. Hook up the hose from the kit to a faucet, insert roller cover into the plastic tube, turn on the faucet and the water will flush out the paint. Buy at Fresh Décorfor $16.21 +sh.
Martha Stewart has become the spokesperson for the best in culinary arts. But having the best can be very expensive. Markdownmom.com is dedicated to finding the best for less, or Elegant Living On A Budget.
One of the best juicers evaluated by consumers is the Breville Juice Fountain. The first generation was pricey at $199, and the newest models in this line can run from $99-$399.95. Yikes! Although we can agree that this product is probably well worth it, few of us can afford that steep price.
Markdown Mom was shopping at her favorite thrift store and found a first generation Breville Juice Fountain. No, it wasn’t in a box, but scotch taped altogether, and appeared that all the pieces were there and intact. Even if it was missing a piece, you can always email or write the manufacturer and pay for a replacement part providing that the item is not ancient. Like every used electronic,Markdown Mom tested it instore byplugging in the base; however, it did not turn on. Reasoning that it probably had a safety feature like other processors that require complete assembly to make it operational, and there wasn’t an “as is”disclaimer onthe item, a chance was taken because of its’$19.99 price, yes, under $20, and purchased. After getting it home and assembling it, Markdown Mom tested it and violà! It works perfectly.
Here is where some knowledge of electronics, and the willingness to take a chance on an item that was used, but in good condition, paid off. There was a back-up on this in that the thrift store would honor return of the item in 7 days with the sales slip.
See, You Can Get The Best Like Martha–You Only Have To Be Willing To Take A Chance!
Summer sales went bye-bye sooner than expected. For some of us in certain parts of the nation, we are still waiting for summer’s arrival. However, go shopping and not only has the season past, but beginning the first part of July, retailers were already setting up for Back-to-School! Having given up on the lackluster sales of summer, stores needed to recoup losses with early sales of school supplies. Markdown Mom usually waits until after school has started to get the best bargains on school supplies because even with suggested lists given out by the schools inevitably the lists are wrong and then you end up with a lot of unnecessary supplies at full price.
However, having said that there are exceptions. One exception is buys on computers. This month you will see great deals on computers–desktops, laptops, and notebooks. As a student or buying for student, computer manufacturers and retailers will be going all out to salvage a lackluster year not only with great bargains but special packages bundled with computers. If you are a first-time computer buyer your best bet is a laptop because of its’ versatility. Although mini or netbooks have increased in popularity, they lack the CD disk drive or DVD, therefore, mini books should be auxiliary equipment to your present desktop or laptop or notebook computer system.
You can get a desktop computer at major retailers likeWal-Martunder $400 and laptops for under $500. These special prices typically aren’t seen again until the holidays, and are not off-brand but include major computer companies. Shop around for the best package to meet your needs, remember you’ll pay more for the lastest innovations with all the bells and whistles, but you’ll be surprised by just how much you get with these baseline packages.
Ever wonder what becomes of all those stolen items retrieved by the police such as the bling purchased by drug dealers? Well, after prosecution of these criminals, some of the items are released for sale to the general public. Usually this is done by local and state officials like the local police or your state’s department of transportation. The money from the sales usually go back into the agency’s budget. In large metropolitan areas, bargain hunters have had a tremendous advantage at obtaining some real deals on merchandise ranging from diamond jewelry, cars, to computers.
Now, the internet provides an opportunity for everyone to get in on these deals. At the Property Room.Com you can bid on these hot, hot items.
The “Loot” ranges from cars like this Lexus to Collectible Coins to KitchenAid Mixers. This auction site gives the bidder the advantage of knowing the value of what he or she is bidding on because everything has been appraised by a professional.
However, as with most auctions, large items are available for pick-up only. Just like other not-for-profit auctions, part of the proceeds are returned to law enforcement agencies to support the good guys.
A great way to get a good deal and to feel good at the same time by supporting those who keep us safe!
School Days, school days, good old golden rule days–an oldie yes, but did you ever wonder who sang it more? The kids or the parents, especially moms. School Days are not as gleeful as they use to be–the longer you go, the more expensive it becomes and by the time your a college student you almost need a loan each semester just for the books!
But not to worry, Markdown Mom has found another internet site to save those precious college dollars on textbooks.
Bookfinder.com compares the prices on over 150 million books for sale–new, used, textbooks, out of print, rare, and international.
Save up to 80% over campus stores! Time is growing short before the Back-to-School crowd begins its’ exodus to campuses nationwide. Get ready for that first day by letting this site find what you need at a price you can afford!
Have you ever met a person that doesn’t have a sweet tooth? Some may say they don’t have one, but come on–you know they are secret Willy Wonkas. Not loving chocolate is positively unhealthy! Markdown Mom recently sampled an array of scrumptious fudge from Fudgie Wudgie. Delicious with so many choices like Belgian Walnut Chocolate Fudge, Double (Dark) Chocolate Fudge, Chocolate Cheesecake Fudge just to name a few. Plus they have specialty Belgian Chocolates like Belgian chocolate covered pretzels, chocolate popcorn, chocolate marshmallow pops, chocolate covered oreos–yummo!
At $15.00 a lb., with free shipping for purchases of $50 or more, this is a tasty product not only for individual chocolatiers, but for organizations looking for a great fundraising item.
Give Into Your Chocolate Obession And Enjoy A Truly Gourmet Fudge!
When is a cookie cutter more than a cookie cutter? When it becomes a design feature for your homemade baked goods!
No more trying to draw a leaf out of that pie dough, or modeling one like play dough–and let’s not do a Martha special feature by tracing an actual leaf!Those type of impediments are bound to deflate any artisan yearnings!
NEW from King Arthur Flour comes this great new gadget for all of us trying to achieve that special professional touch the easy way. A set of 6 mini-leaf pastry cutters for $8.95. Just in time for Fall baking, these are great for pies, crackers, even marzipan.
If you are going to go to the trouble of making goodies from scratch you might as well add the extra pièce de resistance!
Home and community gardens are becoming popular in these economic times. Growing your own not only can help those high grocery bills, but are a healthy and safe source of veggies, herbs, fruit and more. But getting too much of a good thing can present a problem; afterall, you don’t want those excess quantities of tomatoes or zucchinis to go to waste. Well you can and freeze some of the bounty, but have you ever considered a swap meet for garden produce?
Veggie Trader is the place to buy, trade, or sell homegrown produce. Acting like a Veggie Craigslist, you can place an ad online, find local sources for items you want to buy, and information on nearby farmer’s markets.
Join in the fun. It’s Free, but watch out for those fly-by fruities!
Well, guess the retailers are considering the Back-to-School campaign another bust and they are getting their Fall and Halloween merchandise out in Mid-August.
Now is the time to buy your swimsuit to use for the rest of the summer, vacationing, or for next year. Prices at KMart and Wal-Mart are up to 80% off.
Because of the recent drought in Texas and other places, beef prices have gone down. Markdown Mom found prime rib for under $7.00/lb. at Sam’s Club. Beef prices will eventually go up, hence bargain buyers are urged to buy now, seal and freeze it for later.
Ah-h-h the proverbial philosophical debate! Now you can end the debate by a 2 for 1 deal at Crate & Barrel’s gadgets. These two cookie cutters are bargain priced at$1.50, reg. $2.95. Check out all the past season goodies at terrific prices. This is one way of getting ahead of the gang and saving dollars at the same time.
Be sure to view other deals offered byCrate & Barrel’s Outlet–one of Oprah’s favorite stores for decorating makeovers!
Sooner or later, every chef or celebrity cook will extol the virtues of cooking with cast iron pans and pots. Around the campfire or in the most sophisticated kitchens, any cook worthy of his/her esteem position whether on t.v. or in the home, will have a set of cast iron cookware. Even some of the priciest name brands are enameled cast iron cookware.
For bargain hunters you can find cast iron cookware at auction sites, thrift stores, and tag sales. Even new pieces of cast iron cookware can be found at a reasonable price. The only trouble that you will encounter, whether buying used or new with cast iron, is that it must be seasoned. Oftentimes with older pieces you will find that you have to remove rust from the pan and re-season it. The best pans are those that are in great condition and have been seasoned by many years of wonderful ingredients and food.
But what can you do when you get a new cast iron pan or restoring an old one to obtain that wonderful seasoned condition?
Well, Cooking Enthusiast®has found a product that not only is labor saving, but relatively inexpensive and is made from all-natural products. Cast Iron Conditioner recommended by chefs, seasons and protects your cast iron without the tedious oil and heating methods usually used to season cast iron. Just a little dab will do you! For $12.99 for a 6 oz. tube, you’ll save money just in convenience alone and your family will appreciate all those wonderful home cook fast food meals flavored and healthy as only cast iron cookware can provide.
Go Forward and Wield That Cast Iron Pan With Confidence!
Into this Wednesday Steal! Pearls are still in this season, so why not get real freshwater pearls below the cost of simulated ones!
At ShopNBC get this sterling silver black freshwater pearl wrap ring in three sizes of small, medium and large for $9.74, reg. $25.20, a 51% savings! Free Shipping on this and other clearance today!
Kitschy and perfect for this fashion season’s emphasis on accessories!
No, this isn’t a discussion by the stars of Sex And The City; I mean what were you thinking? For those of us who have been eyelash impaired and don’t want to try out that new product which may make your blue eyes brown, the vibrating mascara brush is a must have in your cosmetic bag!
Lancôme® had cornered the market for the vibrating mascara applicator for some time, and Markdown Mom forked over its’ hefty $34 price. However, price relief is in sight. As with any new invention, new competitors spark lower prices. Maybelline’s® Pulse Perfection Mascara, comes in 2 shades of black, and has a waterproof mascara for under $13 at major retailers like Target. And to make your eyes really bug out, now they are offering an online $3 coupon!
How does this second generation compare to the pricier version? Well, it covers each lash like the original and when applied correctly lifts and curls at the same time. Don’t hesitate to take advantage of the coupon deal to try this product if you haven’t already–you won’t be sorry, and the waterproof version makes it even more attractive to add this product to your makeup routine.
Pourfect® with its’ latest inventions for all of us home bakers will be distributed by Macy’s and Kohl’s online later this fall. Markdown Mom just received this information directly from Randy Kaas of Pourfect Bowl®.
Now you will be able to obtain those wonderful products. either at these stores’ on the web, or by mail order from the distributor. Seriously, no baker should be without items like the Scrape-A-Bowl beater in various sizes to fit your KitchenAid mixer, beakers with dripless spouts, spill proof bowl sets, and new mushroom powders to flavor your dishes.
Sephorathe home of fabulicious cosmetics is known for its’ freebies. When you shop online you can choose product samples for free with every purchase so that you can try the latest cosmetics and scents before you buy. And when you shop in store, oftentimes you can get a free makeup makeover, free samples, and if it’s your birthday during the month, a special birthday present just for you!
Markdownmom celebrated her birthday with a special trip to the store which is a treat in and of itself and received a trio of lip gloss kit FREE!
Plus by becoming aBeauty Insidermember you can receive points for every purchase and they can be cashed in for free products and kits like this fabulous makeup kit.
This week get a Bare Escentuals Flawless Defining Mascara FREE with any merchandise purchase online, just enter code BEFLAWLESS at checkout.
Become A Fabulous Looking Frugalista With These Freebies!
Okay, you’ve decided to turn over a new leaf . No more extreme diets, no more marathons, just a sensible approach to eating healthy and regular exercise.
Kashi wants to give you that start jump that new lifestyle with a free sampleof their delicious cereal. Wake up your palate and have some fun at this site, too! Great recipes, games and more.
Remember, Breakfast Is Your Most Important Meal!!!
Come on, every family has one Sheldon in it! You know the OCD brainiac of the CBS’ hit The Big Bang.Markdown Mom has one in her family and bought this item after seeing Sheldon use it to fold his laundry.
Now your Sheldon may not be as neat, and as a result is disorganized and has a room that is space deprived. Whether or not your Sheldon is a copy of the original or just a version, this item will get him or her in shape.
The Debbee Flip Fold® is great to solve the problem of too much apparel or linens and no space. By removing the air and folding the item uniformly, this product is a cinch for organization!
Best price atHSNfor $26.98 plus sh includes 2 sizes and choice of colors.
Okay, you come home late, tired and after a hectic day looking for a friendly face. You’re greeted at the door with enthusiasm and kisses, but WHEW that breath from your loved one could melt a lead pipe!
Now there’s a remedy for those times between visits to the vet! That’s right if your pet has a dirty smelly mouth, you can keep it fresh all the time with the Royal Treatment Dental Kit for large and small dogs. The chew toy can be filled with the breath freshener doggie paste and while your pet plays with the toy, it freshens his or her breath. And for a follow-up put the liquid pet mints into the water dish. Refreshing for both owner and pet. At HSN for $19.95 + sh.
Ballet flats are still in and super hot in textured suede/metallic faux patent leather. The Maria Ballet Sport Flats by Merona® at Target are not only in this fashion season but super priced for frugalistas! Regular priced at Target $24.99, now super clearance online price of $12.48– less instore– in gray and tan.
Remember fashion is not a matter of price, but good cents!
Good food and good company in an convivial atmosphere, what could be better than that? The Chianti Grill has moved to its’ new digs near the Har Mar Mall in Roseville, off of Snelling in St. Paul. Offering a fantastic wine list, and great Italian food, Markdown Mom recently visited the Chianti Grill at its’ new location and was greeted by the chef.
This is a great date place with moderate prices coupled with a rich wood interior, and great service. Come for lunch and save about 25%. When ordering, spend the extra $1.50 for the balsamic vinegar with gorganzola cheese.Yummy! Markdown Mom loved the shrimp filled cannelloni–oh so good and so many other delectables!
If you see the chef, tell him Markdown Mom sent you and add:
“Tutti a tavola a mangiare!” (everybody to the table to eat!)
Runway Designers this year are cost-cutting, doing their own knock-offs of their runway hits for online shopping networks. One of their main themes has been to update your present wardrobe with accessories or add that one indispensable piece at cut rate prices. However, as much as we love the designers finds and their designs, for many of us owning these items is still cost prohibitive. But look around and you can have these looks at one-fourth the cost.
For instance, one of the hottest trend setters who have dressed the rich, the famous, and the infamous is Rachel Zoe. AtQVC, she premiered this North/South hobo handbag–a hot and trendy look this Fall, msrp $152, qvc price $122. Made from PVC, cotton lining this popular handbag has a side zip and comes in shades of natural, green and brown snakeskin print.
AtTarget™, you will find this Hollywood Intuition Snake Tote in natural for $22.00. Made from polyester with interior pocket, the straps are not as long as Zoe’s handbag,there will be a difference in texture and materials used, but again, here is the look at a fraction of the cost, in stores and online.
You Decide What You Want To Pay For Fashion This Fall!
Ever want to roar like a lioness or purr like a kitty cat? Now you can show your true colors and still stay within budget. Hard Candyis a new line of cosmetics introduced by one of your favorite dollar stretching stores, WalMart. This line of cosmetics is so hot, it’s sizzling. Metallics, glimmer, shimmer, and more. Specialty products before only available at high-end cosmetic specialty stores, now available at WalMart for a fraction of the cost.
For instance, the exotic eyeshadow tattoo kits in animal prints, smokey eye, exotic or glitter are only $10.00. Alluring, firey, smoldering or just wild. You can decide to be a pussycat or el tigre, it’s all up to you!
Great for the holiday season–to wear or to give as a stocking stuffer!
Whether you are an evolutionist or creationist, both can agree whatever the design source all of us have had back problems. Nothing is worse than having to sit at a desk day in and day out, or in your car in traffic for hours on end with an achy, breaky back! Doesn’t back pain make your brown eyes blue with the pain?
QVC has got a great deal to help lessen that condition with this adjustable back rest. Now you can buy those fancy motorized, messaging, back supports–but a good one will run you up to $100. And your comfy favorite chair is hardly portable to bring with you. Take the pain out wherever you are with these portable mesh back rests. In this package deal get 2 back supports for $15.62+sh. Just think one for the office, and one for the car. Markdown Mom bought a set for her college kids and one set for her and hubby.
Taking The Pain Out Of The Holidays One Sore Back At A Time!
Thanksgiving is not far off, and most of us this weekend will either finalize our plans for the feast, or for the majority of us, we will begin to gear up for the holiday. If you want to be successful at any endeavor you need the right tools. Just like a surgeon has his/her own instruments specially made, a chef relies a lot on his/her prep tools. Sharp knives, quality pots and pans, and all those great gadgets that make the task easier, but add that degree of professionalism.
Markdown Mom came across another one of those hot new gadgets and this one comes from Rachael Ray. Her silicone lazy spoon and ladle are just perfect for preparing the turkey gravy and so many other dishes. Comes in green, blue, and orange made from silicone that can withstand temperatures to 500° plus they are notched so that they can rest on the rim of your pan. What a handy gadget! AtAmazonfor $19.95+sh.
As the fashion world harkens back to Breakfast At Tiffany’s with glamour fabrics and large chunky jewelry, onyx takes front stage as an affordable large gemstone for all fashionistas. As Vera Wang has said “Gimundo” is the operative word for jewelry this year. Large gemstones and bib jewelry update any outfit. Among the turquoise, amethyst, smoky quartz, onyx stands out as a classic among classics. Black and white, onyx and pearls are standards that never go out of style.
Markdown Mom found this super buy at ShopNBC of a 100 inches of onyx beads. Knot it, wrap it, belt it, or let it fall down your back, this necklace will make a super fantastic fashion statement! 13 x 7 mm beads continuous necklace, reg. $304.50, shopnbc priced at $179.50+sh. While shopping, check out ShopNBC’s clearance on pearls–you’ll find some of the best prices on pearls on the web here.
Those of us who write on the web check our stats to see how we are doing. Periodically, we also check on how others are doing. Markdown Mom has noticed lately that the stats for Martha Stewart.com have been hidden at the” request of the owner”. With the exception of the huge audience for the interview of Sarah Palin, Oprah.com has shown declines since June of this year.
A lot of us who are simply writers and not television personalities have not gone to the trouble to quantify stats on our sites perhaps because we simply want to put a positive face on and bolster ourselves to continue to slug away at our passion. But for large companies such as Martha and Oprah’s that, despite the downturn in the economy, still have a decent draw of viewers and are ranked in the upper 1% of web domains, stats have a greater effect. This is especially true given that besides being on the web, these are television personalities and in the world of TV, perception is everything.
Perhaps the stats serve as a prospectus of how their individual companies are doing, and in a rough economy any losses may be indicative of a company’s health. Both have shown declines, but have not reacted to declines the same way. Like a race car driver who speeds up while maneuvering a hairpin curve, Martha is expanding her company’s interests in the midst of a loss of 35 million this year. Oprah is leaving network TV, for her syndicated cable network. It’s hard to say in what direction, despite slams, Rachael Ray will go since she has a foot in both worlds.
This economy has shown that celebrity and wealth does not insulate, it just takes longer for the other shoe to fall when you have financial reserves. Most of us smaller entities have been hit hard by this economic crisis beginning in 2007, and still are not on firm ground. Many of us were not too big to fail; however, something is afoot here when even institutions like Martha Stewart and Oprah Winfrey find it necessary to change, either in pulling back or risk taking.
The holidays are when beauty retailers crank out marvelous gift boxes. You know the kind, those luscious sets of perfumeries with baskets of bath & body products. In recent years, retailers have been expanding this idea to include makeup kits. However, rather than a generic cosmetic kit, what about giving your favorite gal, daughter, sister, or in-law a gift set from one of her favorite hot brands at a terrific bargain!
Beauty Ticket has the latest fashion cosmetic lines–you know the ones you find in high end specialty stores–at fantastic savings–even gift sets for stocking stuffers like this Face Contouring Trio Palette from Stila, reg. $38.00, bargain priced $17.99! Each compact comes with 3 shades, light (a high-lighting powder), dark (a low-lighting powder), flash (a soft neutral shimmer), a step by step simple instructions on how to contour cheeks, nose and eye, and some very essential lighting that surrounds the mirror. Check out the mirror–it has its’ own LED lights! How Cool Is That?
Plus, check out their weekly super bargain, or This week it’sStila Winter Wonderland Set in “Noire” (a $130 value!) for $18.99!
‘Tis the season for fashionista,frugalistas,and bargain hunters, but MarkdownMom has been M.I.A. What gives? Has she lost her nose for finding terrific bargains? Is she suffering from bad economy ennui? Au contraire! She decided, perhaps “decided” is the wrong term, she ended up in the hospital and has been out of commission for over a month. At peak holiday sales, who says timing is everything. Well, she is on the road to recovery, so get ready to stretch that dollar and look good girl while you’re doing it!
It use to be that you had to shop the off brands in the New York garment district to find designer knock-offs. Not anymore. With a tough economy the designers are creating knock-offs of their popular designs sometimes at two price levels. For instance, some designers have brought to the home shopping networks their lines at considerable savings, and then to middle income store chains like Target, another line even more affordable. Such is the case of Carlos Falchi.
With 30 years in design, Falchi is noted for his high end, couture handbags. These wonderful creations made out of premier leather, snakeskin and with his signature luxurious abstract linings, even at $1000 retail many buyers have become lifetime collectors of his handbags. Recently, he expanded his line to include apparel, jewelry and accessories onHSN. And this month he has cast his design net of his handbag line to mainstream distributors likeTarget.
Now you won’t get real leather or snakeskin or all the bells and whistles of a $1000 handbag by Falchi, but you will get the “look” with its’ signature lining incorporating the target symbol, for $19.99+! Like this faux snake hobo in purple, green or black. Can’t argue with that price point and it’s still an original Falchi handbag, not a knock-off.
Remember, now you can make a fashion statement at a price that won’t break your budget!
In keeping with this fashion season of upgrading your wardrobe with accessories, creating layers with jewelry has been especially hot. Chunky necklaces paired with multiple chains, enhancers, have given rise to one piece that provides a lot of bling for the buck–the bib necklace ! Markdown Mom has found some deals that are bound to enhance any wardrobe in time for the holidays and the 2010.
For color that will go with anything, Markdown Mom likes this bib necklace from HSN. Individual cabachon and bezel cut faceted stones in an array of eyecatching color will go well with any neckline.
Brought to HSN by host Colleen Lopez, this 22″ with 3″ extender necklace is perfect to add a little glam for the holiday season. And at $69.95 with two flex pays, well within affordability.
For a classic look at a rock bottom price, check out the offerings at JCPenney.
Like this 22″ w/3″ extender hermatite and black 4 rows bead necklace, reg.$30.00, sale priced at $19.99. In stores and online.
As MarkdownMom prepares to weather out what local stations are calling a mega storm in the Twin Cities, post holiday season clearance sales are gearing up. Although retail has picked up, the stores still have to meet lagging figures for the year and have decided to pre-empt after Christmas clearance sales by gearing up and offering red hot deals now.
QVCandHSNshopping networks are currently offering current season fashion and jewelry at 40%-60% off including offerings by their top designers Sherry Cassin. Her Illusion line forHSN has some spectacular deals like her reversible coat in either Black Chinchilla or Bronze with faux fur and sash–two looks for one! Reg. price of $429.00, new red hot sale priced $199.90 with 3 flex pays! Remember, the better the bargain, the faster that quantities, colors and sizes become limited.
What better way to say let it snow, then to go online and shop, shop, shop and get the jump on these bargains!
They say if life gives you lemons, make lemonade, but what happens if your lemons rot in the meantime? For the bakers among us, there is a great new product offered byKing Arthur Flourto have that lemon or lime flavor 24/7.
Lemon Powder, at $7.95, and Lime Powder, at $6.95+sh, is perfect for icings, sauces, glazes and adding that extra zest of flavor to cakes and cookies. Comes in an 8oz. bag and can be stored in a cool,dry place for up to 1 year!
One of the hottest colors for this Spring is Red! If you want the look, but not the price tag of a Marc Jacobs® featured poncho trimmed in black consider this swing coat from JCPenney®.
Only available until 12:00 Midnight tonight is this oversized collar, 3 black button figure flattering swing jacket, reg. $200, steal price today for $34.99. As with all good markdowns, the sizes are limited to S-XL in red and black/white houndstooth (always a classic).
Markdown Mom says: If that’s your size, then grab this bargain today!
A bygone frontier era included a self-sufficiency seldom experienced in our present mechanized society. However, either because of a desire to become green or a desire to create our own homemade gourmet products, a demand for the manual machines of yesteryear has increased.
Markdown Mom has been watching auction sites, thrift stores, and antique stores and one item that goes for a hefty price , no matter the condition, is a hand butter churner.
Now, the butter churner has been reproduced atQVC. The Paderno World Cuisine Butter Maker has the same mechanism updated and made out of metal rather than wood. Simple to use, just add cream and you can have your own delicious butter. With additional ingredients such as herbs, you can give your guests and family a gourmet treat–a potential addition to homemade gifts. QVC offers this at $109.97+sh. Made in Italy.
Well, the holidays are over and Santa has fulfilled all our wishes–maybe not. What to do with those gifts, well, how can we say it? Those gifts that just weren’t your style–okay, that sounds good. Or how about those gift cards from stores you seldom or ever visit? What to do? Do you toss the gift or gift card back to the giver and tell them, “Thanks, but no thanks!” or “How could you? Don’t you know anything about my tastes by now?” Bad form. Or do you ponder who you can regift these less than stellar gifts to? Well, Markdown Mom has a few suggestions:
Ebay®. Plus: Many items no longer needed or wanted by their owners find their way onto this auction site. Not a bad idea. Potential Downside: you will give a cut to Ebay, and it involves setting up an account, etc. It is an auction site.
Craigslist.Plus: No middle person, potentially faster sale since you can sell it to a local party, reaches a wider market than waiting to hold a yard sale to sell your gift. Potential Downside: you will have to be responsive to the inquiries about the item either through emails and/or phone calls and there can be crank calls, etc.
Bad Gift Emporium. Really bad gifts go here to hopefully find a new home. Photos of items are ranked by the site, listed by availability, and most recent offerings. Plus: Can turn out to be a place to unload that gem. Potential Downside: More a place of commiseration, rather than a marketplace. At least you will know you are not alone.
Gift Card Rescue. Site dedicated to the sale of or exchange of gift cards. Plus: If you can’t sell your gift card you can exchange it from their lists many times at a 35% savings. Potential Downside: As with any type of internet deal, depending on what option you choose, processing time may vary.
Swaptree. Trade books, dvds, music, or videos for free. Plus: site takes the guess work out of sending your item in for exchange by printing label online. Potential Downside: Not completely free, you will pay for shipping.
Okay, you’re tired of shopping, This malady happens to the best of us bargain shoppers caused by sticker shock, media overkill, and the hoardes of fellow shoppers. Take a break, replenish your desire by a visit to yesteryear. Discover the treasures that you already own. Converse with bargain hunters like yourself.
Where, you ask?
How about at an antique show, specifically an Antique Spectacular being held today through January 3rd at the Warner Coliseum on the Minnesota State Fair Grounds in St. Paul, Minnesota.
Over 200 dealers show their wares which include furniture, collectibles, flea market finds and more. Admission is $6 for adults–but you can get that reduced online by signing up for Minnesota Antique Shownewsletter–and is free for children 12 and under.
Don’t Live In Minnesota? Check with your local events publisher for similar events.
Covergirl® has unveiled a new line of eyeshadow called shadowblast. A creamy duo stick with liner at one end and filler at the other to give you that smoky look. This product is good for people on the run who don’t want to mess with the flaking of powders. Colors come in onyx smoke (black w/white), silver sky (gray), purple plum, bronze fire, citrus flair (green/bronze), and tempest blue.
MarkdownMom tried this product and recommends that if you want a smoky eye, you will need the onyx and the silver sky since the silver sky gray does not give that deeper color near the lash line to give a true smoky look. Under $8.50 at Drugstore.com, best priceWalMart.
The winter doldrums not only affect us, but our pets as well. Here’s something to pe-r-r-k up your favorite feline fur friend.
The FroliCat Bolt™ Automatic Laser is an interactive laser toy that provides hours of fun for you & your pet. Simply hold BOLT in your hand or place it on a flat surface, turn it on, & watch your cat pounce, chase, & bat at the exciting laser patterns.
Needs 4 AA batteries (not included). 4.1 paws out of 5 approval review. Under $20.00 available online atAmazon, best pricePetco®$17.97.
The ‘Coupon Mom’ went on the Today Show this morning and showed the hosts how she was able to purchase $100 worth of groceries for only 25 cents. Her handy tips will help you save money every time you go to the supermarket.
Okay, we all know that with the rare exception, most men would end up walking around nude, or worse yet, in grease stained sweatshirts or scrubs, if it wasn’t for the women in their lives coming to the rescue. Really, how many of us replace the stretched out briefs or their socks with holes? Men would probably prefer wearing hides and scratching instead of grooming. Not all, mind you, but you just know that fabric had to be invented by women. Anyway, Nordstrom’sis having its’ biannual sale with up to40% offmen’s clothing. So, get him out of his man cave and bring him into the 21st century.
With the extra savings, pick-up a few bargains for his personal shopper. Like these hot leggings by Trouvé. Goldtone back zipper highlights your favorite booties. In black, sizes XS, M, and L, reg. $44.00, steal price $16.00!
Looking out at the snow blowing across the street, bare trees, icicles hanging from your spouse’s whiskers–and this is Florida! Just kidding, although at 40º it must feel like it’s freezing. For the rest of us, we could use a little Florida sunshine. For a little comfort and to keep healthy, color your world orange with these deals.
Lunds & Byerly’s has great deals to brighten your chilly mornings. First, get 5 lb. box of clementines for $4.99, save $3.00. 2). Save 50¢ lb. on Tropicana Oranges.
Plus get a online coupon for a 64oz. carton of Tropicana Orange Juice for 99¢ with a $10 purchase, ordering online use Promo Code: 010710 at checkout. Coupon good until 1-13-2010.
As new legislation is slated to go into action, the banks and issuers of credit cards have been raising rates and fees for a number of months in an attempt to recoup losses from 2008 and 2009. Many of these financial institutions have dipped into the bailout coffers and their ‘thank you’ to the taxpayer has been to initiate usurious measures raising credit card and bank fees. Talk about biting the hands that feeds you. To make matters worse, at the same time they are giving their top executives bonuses for a ‘job well done.’
Meanwhile, most of us are licking our wounds trying to make ends meet as we continue to reel from the economic woes of the high rollers of Wall Street. If you are tired of others taking control of your finances and thereby your life, and you won’t take it anymore, then Markdown Mom offers these resources to make these fat cats listen in the only language they will understand–the power of the buck!
Take Your Business Elsewhere. Investigate locally owned smaller banks and credit unions that will give you a better interest rate and more personal service. Move Your Money has a listing of those smaller, consumer friendly institutions they have researched to give the consumer relief, catagorized by zip code.
After Moving Your Money, Keep The Former Credit Card Account. This should come with two caveats, do not close that account unless you can restrain yourself to only using it occasionally and paying it off during the grace period, and only if there are no fees attached to keeping the former account open and active. Why? Believe it or not, completely closing that credit card account can hurt your credit rating especially if you are carrying a large debt.
Use Debit Cards, Money Orders and Cash To Pay Debts. But be careful with debit cards, there are fees associated with this convenience, so be sure to keep a ledger of withdrawals and deposits just like a checkbook so that you can avoid NSF fees, etc. Money Orders will carry a charge, but it is infinitesimal compared to regular banking fees. Keep your copy of the money order for your records. Using cash, get a receipt in case a question arises on any bill.
Seek Signature Loan From Credit Union For An Emergency. If you are a member of a credit union and an unexpected bill comes up such as a major car or house expense, engine blows or furnance gives out, you can usually obtain a loan with no collateral, but on your signature alone. This will require submitting a loan application and getting approval from the credit union management, and interest rates can be somewhat higher, but not as high as maxing out your credit card from a large financial institution. Also, if you can schedule automatic repayment from your paycheck.
Keep On Pressing Your Government. Press your state and federal legislators to set ceiling limits on close end credit and fees. The legislation that comes into effect this year is not the total answer.
To make ends meet, the consumer during economic hard times has to think out-of-the box. Here are 5 sourcesMarkdown Mom found with deals on canned goods and other food products at a substantial savings.
Menards andFleet Farm Stores. Expanding to meet the camper in all of us, these stores have carried many items including BBQ sauces, munchies like taco chips, beef jerky, nuts, fish batter, etc. However, recently MarkdownMom found Progresso Soups at Menards, including clam chowder and other varieties that are not always carried in your local grocery stores, for a bargain price of $1.50/can. Check out their dried soups like the Shore Lunch creamy wild rice and cheddar broccoli soup mix (made from scratch).
Big Lots!. Since this is an overstock store you never know what you will find, but in a recent visit MarkdownMom found spices like herbes de provence and other specialty items comparatively inexpensive and usually found in high end grocery stores . Plus join theirBuzz Club and earn an extra 20% off purchases!
Dollar Stores. This is a given thatMarkdownMompreviously has written about this store genre that goes by various names such as The Dollar Tree, Family Dollar Store, The Dollar Store, etc.–cereals, cookies, pickles, artichokes and specialty items to name just a few—and they are either just $1.00 or sometimes 2/$1.00.
Thrift Stores. From time to time, you can find after the holidays at Goodwill Stores some overstock grocery items like cake mixes and Holiday specialty items from Target. Just be sure that the package has not been opened before buying to prevent tampering. Items are usually 50%+ off store prices.
In decorating just like in fashion, styles come and go but some pieces are timeless. These pieces transcend any décor theme and no matter where placed in your design scheme, they pop!
This modern stackable chair is part of a new line fromTarget™that is flying out of the stores. With clean, slick lines and with a price tag of 2 chairs for $69.95, this chair can serve many purposes such as dining chairs, kitchen or recreational chairs, home office, or extra seating. The color selection includes this green that will be the first to become limited in availability, followed by espresso, blue and white. Plus these chairs answer the need for seating when space is limited.
They”re So Hot That You’ll Add the Extra “E” To Modern(e)!
Get your computers ready and your phone dialing finger flexed, the sale is on!
At HSN, 20 hours of Designer fashions on Sale! Sale includes outerwear, shoes, designer handbags, oh my! Look stunning at a real bargain this year and next.
The only thing that peeves us shopping online is paying shipping and handling–am I right? Sometimes the shipping is more than the price of your purchase. And how many times do you miss qualifying for free shipping by a buck or two, or even less? Oh, so close, but no cigar!
Well, for one online giant, this problem has been solved or somewhat mitigated. A new search engine Filler Item will tell you how much you are short for qualifying for super saving free shippingfrom Amazon. Put the amount you need to spend to get to $25 in the box, and then check the boxes for the product category you’d be interested in. It will search for items to reach the amount you need and list only those that will qualify for the super saver free shipping.
Rather than paying that hefty shipping fee that you can’t see or touch, find a little item with your change for a stocking stuffer for birthdays, special events, holidays–or add it to your package wrapping –the recipient will be totally stoked! Don’t worry about remembering this tip, Markdown Mom has put it on her “SHOPPING” page, so you just have to click it when you make your purchase.