Nov 16, 2016 | Family, Save More, Shopping & Life Tips
Are you undecided on holiday gifts this year? Or, maybe you need to find a perfect gift for your gracious holiday host. This gift guide features some great gift ideas for the home! These gifts are perfect for everyone, and will be your go-to list for the ones you just can’t decide on.
This DeLonghi Espresso Cappuccino maker from Home Depot will be the perfect gift for anyone who loves coffee! This machine is the perfect size for countertops, but has all the features they will need to make their favorite drink.
This simple, but elegant, set of personalized champagne flutes from Gilt will be perfect for the holiday season. They will enjoy using this set of four dotted champagne flutes at all their holiday parties, and any special occasion throughout the year.
They can display their memories beautifully in this Jeweled Glace frame set from Anthropologie. This frame set is made of pewter and combined with gorgeous Swarovski crystals to give it a classic vintage look.
Give the gift of comfort and warmth with this eight piece bedding ensemble from Macy’s. This beautiful teal blue floral set is affordable, and comes in all sizes.
For the art aficionado on your list, this beautiful pink and blue abstract print from Etsy will surely delight them and add a touch of beauty to their home. This made to order acrylic print comes in many different sizes to fit your budget and will arrive ready to hang.
Who doesn’t like the stained glass timeless beauty of a Tiffany lamp? This Dale Tiffany™ Vickers Table Lamp from JC Penney will be the perfect gift for even the most difficult person to shop for. This lamp is made from 120 pieces of art glass with an antique brass finish to fit into any style of décor.
Give them the taste of Italy with this World Tastes Italy Gift Box from World Market. They will appreciate receiving this gift box that is filled with an assortment of Italian favorites for them to enjoy.
The little ones on your list will love this Throw and Pillow Buddy Set from Target. This set features an adorable moose from the Wildest Dreams Playroom Collection. Perfect for taking on trips and sleepovers!
Treat your holiday hostess to something beautiful and delicious! This Season’s Greeting’s Celebration Dipped Bananas & Holiday Swizzle Berries bouquet from Edible Arrangements will be perfect for the occasion. This delicious arrangement comes with a variety of fruit and chocolate with a reusable snowman keepsake.
This Loft Living 3-Piece Flameless LED Birch Pillar Candle Set from Bed Bath & Beyond will make a perfect gift that will add a touch of warmth to their décor. This set features three flameless LED candles in natural tree bark design.
Add their favorite plant to this Vertical Oak Planter from Tractor Supply for a gift they are sure to love and enjoy year round. These planters are molded from real trees to give a realistic look. Great for use indoors or outdoors.
Do you want to save even more on your holiday shopping? You can cut down on your costs by earning cash back through Giving Assistant at these stores and many, many more. Head on over to givingassistant.org for many cash back offers, coupons, and money saving tips to make the most of your holiday shopping.
Nov 16, 2016 | Cashback For You, Family, Save More, Shopping & Life Tips
Most kids and teens are fairly simple to shop for. But, with so much to choose from it can be a challenge to narrow down the choices and find the perfect gift. Use this holiday gift guide for kids to help you find the gifts every kid will love!
Delight the little reader this holiday season with this beautifully illustrated handmade book from Etsy. This handmade book is great for young children, can be personalized, and will be a cherished keepsake for many years to come.
These Betsey Johnson Trolls stud earrings from Macy’s will make your little fashionista smile. These are sold as a set of three, and are made with bright, cheery colors to bring out her sunny personality.
Perfect for the little adventurer, save on this Heys America Paw Patrol luggage with eBags coupons. This suitcase is big enough to store everything they need for a night away from home, but small enough to use as a carry on. The famous characters on the front of this luggage will have your traveler excited and ready to pack for their next journey!
What kid doesn’t want a place all their own to hang out? The special little girl in your life will adore this beautiful lace cream tent from AliExpress. This tent not only is stylish and fits into any room, it offers plenty of space inside so she can comfortably relax with any activity she chooses.
For the teen boy or girl in your life, check out these collectible Funko Pop figures from Hot Topic. These figures are popular among teens and pre-teens alike. They will love receiving new Funko Pop figures for their collection! You’ll find many different characters to choose from, so you’re sure to find their favorites.
The sports enthusiast will appreciate this Park & Sun Sports steel volleyball set from Dick’s Sporting Goods. This set makes a great gift for boys and girls, and will give them something to do with their friends on warm summer days while keeping them active.
The littlest one on your list will get a lot of use out of this Johnson & Johnson Bathtime Essentials Gift Set from Babies “R” Us. This eight piece set includes everything baby needs to stay fresh and clean.
Kids and teens love music! This iPod Shuffle from Target is affordable, comes in different colors, and will be a big hit with the younger generation.
Are you looking for something to satisfy the crafty girl? This Loopdedoo Spinning Loom from Michaels craft store will keep her busy for hours. With this kit she can craft many different bracelets for herself, family, and friends.
Teens and pre-teens will enjoy this Latte 3D Virtual Reality Headset from Sears. This 3D headset can be used with compatible movies and games for a totally immersive experience! Comes with comfort padding and adjustable strap for a secure fit.
They can learn while having fun with this Geosafari talking globe from Gilt. This electronic globe is easy to use and will help them learn about the world around them.
Do you want to save even more? You can cut down on your holiday costs by earning cash back through Giving Assistant at these stores and many more. Head over to givingassistant.org for many cash back offers, coupons, and money saving tips to make the most of your holiday shopping.
Jun 11, 2015 | Family
It’s always surprising to me how much all dads have in common, regardless of background. They all tell terrible jokes. They all have, at least once, killed the spider and then pretended to not have killed the spider just to mess with you. And they all want to install TVs in the bathroom – okay, maybe that last one’s just my dad.
But in spite of all the things dads have in common, there’s no one-size-fits-all Father’s Day gift. Your pop made you into the person you are today, and he deserves a present that’s just as strange and special as he is. Here, we’ve rounded up a few ideas that we think will appeal to all kinds of dads – all while saving you money!
To help him install that TV
$20 off $100 on Dewalt Tools + 5% cash back at Amazon
If your dad is anything like mine, then he’s constantly building things – assembling desks, fixing yard benches, attaching shelving units to walls. He could probably use a few reliable and beautiful additions to his collection of power tools. Now’s your chance to help him with that by buying him a few new Dewalt tools with this incredible deal!
To keep him fit
53% off Nike Shoes + $10 off with code + 6% cash back at Famous Footwear
Sign you and your pop up for a 5k (or, if you’re more ambitious, a half-marathon or marathon) and train together in your new Nike Shoes! Classic for a reason, Nike sneakers provide the support and comfort you and your dad need to perform at your best. 53% off is a real bargain, so buy them now and start running.
To help him drink in style
15% Off Whiskey Wedge + Free Shipping on $35 at Corkcicle
This one’s pretty cool: the Whiskey Wedge allows you to freeze a wedge-shaped chunk of ice straight into your glass, keeping your drink of choice perfectly chilled but not watered down. Your dad shouldn’t have to settle for diluted, too-warm-or-too-cold whiskey, and now, he doesn’t have to.
To bring a little music to his life
28% Off Jambox Speakers + Free Shipping + 4% Cash Back at Kohl’s
Bluetooth-connected, battery-powered, and delivering stunning sound quality, Jambox speakers are a perfect gift for any dad who loves his music. And, since they come in a wide range of sizes, you can buy him one to keep in his office and one to keep in his pocket.
To satisfy his cravings
10% Off Krave Jerky + 8% Cash Back at Drugstore
Krave combines flavor and health to create a next-level jerky experience. All natural and gluten-free, Krave produces all kinds of jerkies: Black Cherry Barbeque, Garlic Chili Pepper, Basil Citrus, the list goes on. Buy some for your dad (and yourself) to treat your taste buds without any guilt.
To make him tear up
25% Off Photo Books for Dad + 8% Cash Back at Walgreens
Get your best memories together bound in a beautiful hardcover book with this deal from Walgreens. Your first birthday, your trip to Disneyland, your senior prom, your college graduation – throw it all in, and don’t forget to thank Dad for making it all possible.
Dec 4, 2014 | Family, Tech, Uncategorized
Do you have a bookworm or word nerd on your list? How about a film lover, incessant doodler or aspiring brewer? Don’t give a lump of coal–show your friends and loved ones they’re on the “nice” list with a gift that suits their interests from Barnes and Noble. Don’t forget to grab a 10% Off Barnes & Noble Coupon & 6% cash back at our store page.
Holiday Spirit for the Small Screen
Give a gift that will get everyone in the holiday spirit–a holiday movie! A Christmas Story is sure to get friends and loved ones of all ages laughing. It’s a Wonderful Life is a heartwarming tale that will give a sense of perspective amid the hustle and bustle of the holiday season.
Give Zen, Get Zen
A Buddah Board makes a cool, zen accent for an office or room. Dip the brush in water and create a unique pattern on the board. As the water dries, so does the design, eventually clearing to a fresh, blank slate. This is the gift of a serenity!
Young Readers
There is perhaps no better gift for children than books. They’re more than entertainment or education–they can be a portal to a whole new world. A classic book like Shel Silverstein’s The Giving Tree, Frances Hodgson Burnett’s The Secret Garden, or Dr. Seuss’s Oh the Places You’ll Go! never goes out of style. Or, give a gift that will keep your young reader entranced well past the end of your holiday gathering with a box set like the Harry Potter Paperback Box Set, which includes all seven Harry Potter books.
Turn Those Tables
For music lovers who appreciate retro cool, give Crosley’s Chalkboard Cruiser Turntable. This three-speed turntable has built-in stereo speakers, RCA outputs and a headphone jack. The outside is a chalkboard, so the lucky recipient can doodle and customize the outside.
Arts & Crafts
If you’re looking for a gift for an artist, consider the Pencil & Pastel Wooden Art Case. This 54-piece set comes with everything a budding artist needs to create a whole range of projects. From colored pencils to soft pastels, charcoal to graphite, plus essentials like a sponge, pencil sharpener and brush, this is the perfect gift for a creative friend.
Brew Something Special
If you have a true beer connoisseur on your list, why not give him a set for him to try his hand at his own brew? The American Pale Ale Home Beer Brewing Kit comes with everything he’ll need to create a crisp, hoppy, bitter pale ale. If pale ale isn’t his beer of choice, you could also gift a Hefeweizen Craft Beer Brewing Kit or a Dry Irish Stout Craft Beer Recipe Kit.
Happiness in the Kitchen
For a gift that keeps on giving, why not give a cookbook? Barnes and Noble has a huge range of culinary bestsellers. Give Make It Ahead: A Barefoot Contessa Cookbook to a friend who loves to cook and entertain–and doesn’t want to spend all his time stuck in the kitchen at his own party. Or, if he’s looking for recipes that are big on taste but low on calories, try The Skinnytaste Cookbook: Light on Calories, Big on Flavor, written by the author of the wildly popular Skinnytaste blog.
E-Book Worms
is a great gift for a voracious reader. The crisp, bright display makes it easy to get lost in a book. This e-book reader has a 6-inch display, 8 week battery life and lightweight construction. From curated collections to book recommendations, plus access to over 3 million titles in the NOOK Store, this gift ensures the reader will always have a new book at her fingertips.
Now go, gift and make merry!
Aug 15, 2014 | Family
Children today interact with so many electronics, they’re more likely to stay glued to a TV or iPhone than blissfully run around outdoors; don’t worry – these endlessly entertaining, healthy family games will have them racing to the yard.
We know how it is: children these days have been raised in a technological age. They’re capabilities with laptops, tablets, and smartphones very likely already exceeds our own. Yet, what other time than childhood do we have the precious freedom, wild imaginations, and limitless energy to spend full days playing outside?
Exercise, fresh air, and active play are all crucial for children’s growing minds and bodies. These 6 healthy family activities are sure to please your kids and be far more entertaining and laughter-inducing than any iPhone game.
For the Active Healthy Family
1) US Games Fun-Air Scoop Ball
With this scoop ball kit from Amazon, you and your family will no doubt enjoy hours of playful fun in the backyard or on the beach!
This game is perfect for young children (and the not so coordinated), as the scoops are large enough for easy catching and the whiffle ball moves slowly.
Fun fact: the game helps children develop hand-eye coordination!
2) Propel Trampoline with Enclosure
There’s nothing like a trampoline for endless entertainment. Kids, and even adults, flock to these for hours of laughter and exercise.
This large trampoline from Sears includes an enclosure for extra protection. The excitement of such boundless bouncing can quickly lead to launching clear off the trampoline, so you’ll be grateful for this safety precaution.
For the Healthy Family with a Competitive Edge
2) Competition Badminton Standard
This badminton kit from Walmart can be set up quickly and easily in your own backyard. This friendly competition is sure to get everyone in the household fired up and involved! Play teams of kids against parents for a silly challenge.
The full-size collegiate style net means the game is very simple to learn, but real skill takes determination! Kids and adults alike will bond over the thrill of victory when playing this ultimate outdoor game.
5) 44 inch Portable Basketball System
Inspire in your children a love for sports with this professional-quality basketball hoop from Toys “R” Us. The rim is adjustable from 7.5′ to 10′, so it can grow along with your children! The rust-resistant pole and weighted stand help keep it upright and intact for years.
Best of all, there’s no concrete construction required–just fill the stand with water or sand, and you’re ready to go!
For the Crafty Healthy Family
4) Alpine Custom Wooden Play Set Kit
Treat your kids to their own treehouse, swing set and climbing rope with this Alpine Custom Wooden Play Set Kit from Target. Made for children ages 3 and up, this play equipment includes 10 activities and is all-weather proof, so it will stand up to even the harshest environments.
The quick installation system will help you build it in no time, so your kids can begin the daily adventure of having a swing set and wooden fort!
6) Intex 32 ft. x 16 ft. x 52 in. Rectangular Ultra Frame Pool Package
This massive pool from Kmart is so large, the entire family can splash around at once (and even swim laps!). With a length of 32′ and a width of 16′, this pool is equivalent to having a full-sized swimming pool in your backyard without the added cost that comes with digging up your lawn!
Teach your children to swim or just cool off on hot days. Construction and cleaning are a breeze, and the pool is ready to be filled with water in just 60 minutes.
No need to spend any more money on taking your kids to crowded public pools. Your very own personal pool awaits.
Get going!
Well, don’t just sit there! Gather up the kiddos and get on your way. Endless adventures and memories now exist in your yard. Forget trying to convince the kids to play outside; now you’ll hardly be able to keep them in!
Dinner time? We hope you like backyard picnics, because your healthy family will be too busy exploring their fort and competing in a badminton match to sit still in your dining room.
Jul 14, 2014 | Family
Deeeeeep breaths – family trips to the beach will never again leave you tangled in towels and draped in heavy diaper bags; we’re bringing you the ultimate beach packing list.
With this meticulously organized checklist, you will finally spend more time splashing in the waves and reveling in the sunshine than arguing over who forgot to pack Jimmy’s swim goggles.
Deciding what to pack for the beach when you have boisterous young kids to keep tabs on can be, at the very least, incredibly overwhelming. That’s why we want to cut out the whole frantic process entirely and make your packing system efficient and swift.
We’re breaking down this beach packing list checklist into bite-size pieces, so you can easily individualize your own version. Our categories: clothing, safety, toys, must-haves, skin care, lounging, food + drinks, and misc. accessories. While we go into intricate detail regarding absolutely anything and everything you may need, feel free to narrow it down and apply it to your children’s age ranges.
Your Go-To Beach Packing List:
Clothing:
1) Swimsuit Cover-Up
- Avoid the hassle of changing clothes in a public restroom by dressing your kids (and yourself!) in swimsuit cover-ups.
2) Sandals
3) Sun hats
- Children have especially delicate skin. Hats will shade their faces.
4) Sunglasses
- A full day squinting in the bright sun can really strain you and your little one’s eyes. Look for pairs with UVA and UVB protection.
5) Swim Goggles
- Children often like to open their eyes in the water. Prevent the sting of salt water and resulting red eyes with swim googles.
6) Jackets
- If you plan to extend your beach day into the early evening, be prepared for temperature drops and chilly winds.
- Pack a jacket for yourself and each child to stay cozy while you enjoy that beach bonfire!
7) Swim Diapers
- If you have a baby or toddler still in diapers, you’ll want to dress them in swim diapers at the beach. Your little swimmer will stay comfortable and clean. Brand we like: Little Swimmers at Huggies.com.
TIP: Find swimsuit cover ups at Nordstrom, The Children’s Place, and JCPenney.
Safety
Be ready-for-anything by adding these safety items to your beach packing list:
8) First Aid Kit
- Whether it’s a burn, a cut from a shell, or a jellyfish sting … beach adventures sometimes require a little first aid care!
- Pack bandages, aloe vera, calamine lotion (for sunburns or itchy insect bites), and Neosporin.
9) Life Jackets or Arm Floaties
- Life jackets are a great choice for young kids who are still working on their swimming skills!
- Arm floaties can be a good swimming safety solution, as well, but first check the beach’s regulations to make sure they are allowed.
10) Backup Caretaker
- If you have several young kids (or your kids are bringing their friends!), consider either taking another adult with you or hiring a babysitter as a helper.
- As you know, kids love to run off on their own! To make sure each child is accounted for, you’ll want another pair of eyes and hands.
Beach Toys & Games!
While splashing in the water and covering themselves with sand may just be enough to keep your children entertained all day, consider adding in a few of these favorite beach toys and activities!
11) Sand Toys
- Popular items include: shovels, buckets, and sand castle molds.
12) Boogie Boards
13) Kite
14) Frisbee
15) Boomerang
Shopping Tip: Toys “R” Us has an enormous selection of sand toys! Other places to look: Target, Walmart, and Kmart.
Beach Packing List Must-Haves
16) Beach Bag
- Make sure the bag is durable and provides enough space to hold all of your beach essentials.
- Best fabrics: mesh bags, canvas bags, and straw bags.
- Find beach bags of all shapes, sizes, fabrics, and colors at Target.
17) Portable Baby Changing Pad
- As a parent of a little baby, you are well aware of diaper changing emergencies! The same goes for the beach.
- Just in case there are no nearby bathrooms (or they don’t have changing tables in them), bring a portable changing pad.
- We like these ones from Amazon.
18) Diaper Trash Bags
- Keep your beach lounging spot tidy and clean by disposing diapers in a trash bag.
19) Front or Back Child Carrying Pack or Sling Style
- If you have an infant and one of more older children to chase after, you’ll find a baby carrying backpack or sling to be incredibly convenient!
20) Small Plastic Bags for Valuables
- No one wants a sandy cell phone and wallet! Even worse, we’ve all experienced those sunblock explosions.
- To protect these valuables, put them in ziploc baggies.
21) Cash
- Many beaches have food stands with yummy treats the kids may enjoy (think ice cream sandwiches!). Often these only take cash.
- On that note, consider bringing quarters for parking meters.
Skin Care
22) Insect Repellent
- Unfortunately, many beaches attract pesky insects.
- In addition to insect repellent, consider bringing anti-itch creams and allergy medicine.
23) Sunscreen
- Sunscreen is a very important item on our beach packing list, but many brands have toxic ingredients.
- Be sure to look for natural brands to protect your skin from the sun and harmful chemicals.
- Our favorite safe, natural brand for children (and adults!) is Badger Sunscreen. You can find it at Whole Foods and Walgreens. Check out Vitacost.com for more natural sunscreens.
24) Cleansing Wipes
- All this fun in the sun can rapidly turn into a mess!
- Bring cleansing wipes for a speedy way to clean up your kids before snack time.
- We like: Earth’s Best Toddler Wipes from Diapers.com, Seventh Generation Baby Wipes from Staples.com, Pampers Natural Clean Wipes from Walmart, and Burt’s Bee’s Baby Bee Chlorine – Free Wipes from Drugstore.com.
25) Hand sanitizer
- Gathering up all the kids for a journey to the beach bathroom can be tricky to pull off. Skip the hassle with hand sanitizer.
26) Lip Balm
- Long days enjoying the sun’s rays and the salty breeze can lead to seriously chapped lips.
- Choose a soothing lip balm with SPF to keep the children (and yourself) comfortable and protected.
27) Soothing Body Lotion
- Sunburn or not, your child’s skin will be dry and possibly irritated by day’s end.
- Choose a calming post-sun lotion with coconut oil and/or shea butter.
Lounging
28) Beach Blankets
- While towels are a must, you might enjoy spreading out even more with a comfortable beach blanket.
- This is especially helpful when you’ve planned a picnic lunch!
29) Beach Chairs
- While kids most likely can go without these, why not treat yourself to a folding chair for extra comfort?
- Tip: Folding chairs make for easier eating if you are bringing food!
30) Beach Umbrella
- If you and/or your children burn or overheat easily, a beach umbrella is an excellent way to stay cool in the shade.
31) Towels
- If you can fit them, try bringing 1 or 2 extra backup towels.
- You’ll be glad to have a clean, dry spare when you see how covered in sand, water, and potato chips your little one’s towel is!
Food & Drinks
32) Cooler + Ice
- Keep your snacks, meals, and drinks cold and fresh with a cooler.
- Tip: a cooler with wheels makes for easy handling.
33) Water
- Water bottles – every person should have his or her own water bottle. Busy beach days mean fast dehydration!
- Tip: Plastic water bottles leach harmful chemicals into your water. For a safe, clean option, choose reusable water bottles made of glass, like the Lifefactory Glass Bottle available at Amazon.
34) Beach Snacks
- Popular snacks include: grapes, apple slices, trail mix, watermelon, string cheese (keep in the cooler!), chocolate covered raisins, and carrot sticks.
35) Tupperware or Lunch Bags
36) Paper Towels and/or Napkins
37) Plastic Cups
- Only needed if you plan to bring extra drinks in addition to your water.
38) Plastic Utensils
- Most likely unnecessary for snacks, but a must for meals.
Beach Packing List Misc. Accessories
On the chance you’re not overwhelmed quite yet, these extra accessories can be nice to have!
39) Soap/ Shampoo
- Heading somewhere straight from the beach? Clean everyone up at the beach shower.
40) Disposable Camera
- Yes, your cell phone is an option … but use it at your own risk! It’s all too easy to get grains of sand stuck inside.
- For a worry-free experience, choose a disposable camera. That way, you won’t stress if it’s damaged.
Discounts & Savings for Beach Packing List Shopping
Now that you have a thorough beach packing list with absolutely everything you will ever need for those blissful beach days, we’d like to help you save on your shopping. We gave you quite a long list here, so the least we can do is lighten your load with these top-notch discounts for the best stores to stock up on supplies!
Click on these links to find coupons for each of these stores: Nordstrom, The Children’s Place, Amazon, Vitacost, Walgreens, Walmart, Target, Drugstore.com, Toys “R” Us, Staples, and Kmart.
See you at the beach!
