Fashion & Shopping Tips!

What's a fashionista, you ask? Either a die-hard fashion fan or someone who works in the industry (designer, model, stylist), a fashionista is all about reflecting attitude in her personal style and appearance.

One huge misconception about the fashion industry is that you have to spend large to look large. While top editors, designers and models can easily bring in high-paying annual salaries, most fashionistas are crafty in scouting out alternative means to discover their must-have pieces. They scavenge flea markets, tailor second-hand garments themselves and flip through fashion mags for inspiration.

Another myth is that you have to dress like an over-the-top avant-garde designer to get noticed by the stylish in-crowd. A good sense of style, smart shopping and research are keys to your fashion success. Here are some tips to help you dress like a fashionista:

1. How you buy: If you're a quantity buyer and tend to purchase a lot of pieces in bulk, then you're not likely to wait for the classic tweed Chanel suit to go on sale. But if you like having a few high-quality garments, shopping at trendy discount fashion stores is probably a waste of your time. Determine what type of buyer you are, so you can budget for priority pieces or multiple fashions accordingly.

2. Do your homework: Make a seasonal wish list before you go shopping. Prep by reading magazines, fashion blogs and watching fashion show recaps to compile your must-haves list.

3. Ask the pros: If you spot someone sassy on the subway wearing the perfect outfit, why not ask where she got it? New boutiques and "it" spots sprout up quickly, so finding new shops from people on the street or new acquaintances helps to set you apart.

4. Don't discriminate: Sometimes the best finds are those hidden gems you can find in bargain bins and sample sales. Don't assume a high price tag dictates good fashion or you could overlook some fantastic frugal finds.

5. Bargain like mad: Who doesn't love a bargain? Always ask for discounts on slightly damaged (but fixable) pieces, bulk purchases from boutiques. Even if you're buying a day or two ahead of an upcoming storewide sale, it doesn't hurt to ask.

6. Accessorize: Earrings, scarves, shoes, handbags and hair pins can change your entire look. When you're getting dressed, be sure to save time for the important finishing touches that can make or break your entire outfit.

7. Build your wardrobe by season: There's no saying last year's spring trench coat can't be worn with a new broach and shoes in this season's hottest colours. Add classic pieces to your current collection each season. A clever fashionista adapts existing pieces for new occasions.

8. Don't skimp on quality fabrics: Whether it's chic cotton T-shirts at H&M or pantsuits at Banana Republic, high-quality fabrics are readily available. Be conscious of the fabric blends you're buying, wash and care instructions and never settle for cheap clothing just because it's, well, cheap.

9. Good hair and makeup: No celebrity walks the red carpet without a hair and makeup team following their every move. Take a cue from the experts and make your cosmetics and hair an integral part of your routine. It's as important an asset as the clothes you're showcasing.

10. Be Fabulous: Your disposition is the first impression people have when they see you. A friendly smile and confident attitude are the best accessories a girl can have.

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With Christmas fast approaching you must be wondering what's on your kids wish list this year (that's if they haven't told you already!). Well don't worry here's a guide of the Hottest Toys this year that will help you decide what to get your kids this christmas that will not only get that million-dollar smile on their faces but it will definitely get you some cool points as well!! Toys-R-Us have pinpointed toys like the Sesame StreetT.M.X Friends (Like Elmo & Cookie Mosnter), Transformer Ultimate Action Figures and the High School Musical 2 Board Game as some of the most popular this year. Who knows toys better than them? Remember these are some of the most popular toys this year so buy them now before they start disappearing, there's something here for every boy and girl no matter what age group!

Infant/ Preschoolers

Fisher-Price Sesame Street Pizza Party Elmo/ T.M.X Tickle Me Extreme Cookie Monster: Who doesn't love Elmo and Cookie Monster from Sesame Street? Much more than a stuffed toy, when Elmo's extended hand is pressed, he begins to move and talk. "Let's sing the pizza song together," he says, and begins his lighthearted pizza pie song and dance. And Simply press Cookie's belly to see Cookie begin with laughter and it ends by rolling on his side around on the floor hysterical with laughter and humorous phrases.

My Little Pony Sing & Dance Pinkie Pie: Whether she's shimmying and singing along to your favorite Pinkie Pie song, or playing interactive games together, Sing & Dance Pinkie Pie pony is there to share the fun! Her mouth actually moves when she sings! And you can sing along with the included songbook! As she plays, her eyes blink and she turns her head. And when she dances, her skirt and tail swish along.

Thomas the Tank Train Engine Play Tent:
Hop aboard Thomas the Tank Engine for hours of make-believe play. This two-cube structure snaps into place in seconds. Enter through the side entrance or tunnel door; there's mesh ventilation in the roof and two mesh front windows. Tunnel ports allow for expandable play.

Fisher-Price Smart Cycle: The Fisher Price Smart Cycle combines the fun indoor activity of video game playing with the physical activity the great outdoors will give you. Designed for kids ages three to six, the Smart Cycle "physical learning arcade system" is an all-in-one stationary bike, video game console, and educational tool. Your little one will exercise her brain and her body and have loads of fun in the process.

 

Dora the Explorer Three-Wheeled Scooter: This purple scooter is adorned with Dora the Explorer graphics and is perfect for new riders to cruise around the neighborhood in style. he scooter is designed with tri-wheels for stability and balance, a skid-resistant foot plate for safe footing, and a steel frame for super durability (it'll even hold up to 100 pounds).

 

5-10 years

Jakks EyeClops Bionic Eye: Say goodbye to normal magnifiers! With the Jakks EyeClops Bionic Eye hand-held device, kids can view everyday objects at 200 times their regular size. Recommended for kids ages six and up, the EyeClops creates hours of endless play and exploration that's fun for the entire family.

Transformer Optimus Prime/ Bumblebee 16-Inch Bike: The Kent 71630 Transformers Optimus Prime/ Bumble Bee 16-Inch Boys Bike is an ideal bicycle for boys who have just learned how to ride a bike. This Official Transformers Movie bicycle offers a vibrant red and blue motif that resembles Optimus Prime or a a vibrant yellow and black motif that resembles Bumble Bee, the heroic Autobots from the 2007 blockbuster.

VTech Kidizoom Digital Camera: Little ones will have a blast taking candid pics with their Kidizoom Camera. Kidizoom includes a connector cable to plug in and watch a picture slideshow or view the 5-minute movies they've created on any TV or PC. Fun photo-editing features allow kids to distort pictures or add silly frames.

XMODS Evolution Transformers Barricade RC Racer-Bumblebee: Race Bumblebee the Transformer in his bright yellow Camaro Concept form. Plus, you can customize your car with a weapons and light kit and turn Bumblee into a heroic defender of justice as you prepare for war against the DECEPTICONS from the 2007 blockbuster "Transformers".

Mattel Barbie Fashion Fever Styling Heads: The Fashion Fever styling heads come with hair clips, rubber bands, glittery scarves, rhinestone stickers, and glitter gel. There are two hairbrushes so that young girls can invite a friend or sister to play and maybe even host competitions with. And when they tire of making the dolls' heads look great, each of the trendy accouterments can be worn by them!Before you know it, styling fever will be spreading!

10-15 years

K2 Junior Girls/Boys Skates: The perfect skates for the first-time skater, the K2 Junior Skates offer unsurpassed support, an easy fit, and superb comfort.It also boasts an easy-pull lace system with a locking buckle and pushbutton adjustment, so it's simple to fine-tune the frame to fit different-sized feet.

 

XPV Super Terranator Orange 27 MHz: The Terranator is six mean vehicles in one - street car, off-road 4×4, dragster, swamp buggy, snowmobile and speedboat. Four huge pneumatic monster tires means it can tackle just about any terrain. Tread across the land, then take flight with the touch of a button. It also features a composite hull design for superior water skimming and a turbo-charged engine for extreme performance.

Mattel High School Musical DVD Board Game 2: Based on the hit Disney Channel movie "High School Musical 2," this DVD Board Game lets kids take part in the fun. Kids compete across several movie-based categories, as they watch video clips, original outtakes, and songs and dances from the movie. The player with the greatest knowledge of the movie wins.

Razor E100 Electric Scooter: The Razor E100 electric scooter is extremely powerful and reaches speeds up to 10 mph. This scooter can be used for up to forty minutes of continuous use. There is a new chain driven motor and a new twist-grip throttle to control your acceleration.

Barbie Girls MP3 Player: B Stylin, B In Tune, B Connected, with Barbie Girls! Your Barbie Girls device is a next-generation fashion doll and stylish MP3 player all in one. Connect her to your computer to unlock tons of new features on BarbieGirls.com, including special fashions, furniture, accessories, pets, and access to Club Beauty! Your Barbie Girl comes with a second fashion, adjustable-sized earbuds, belt clip, docking station, registration CD, and reusable storage case. 512MB memory, expandable miniSD slot up to 2GB

Big kids (15 and above)

Spinmaster Air Hogs Battling Havoc R/C Helicopters: Havoc Heli is the world's smallest, most advanced radio-controlled helicopter %uFFFD capable of incredible maneuverability. Laser Battle Helis are armed with infrared beam weapons, so you can duel in a kind of exciting real-world 3D "video game" complete with authentic battle sounds and action!

Razor Ground Force Electric Go-Kart: The sleek silver-and-black Ground Force go-kart attains a maximum speed of 12 miles per hour, making it the perfect kart for zipping around flat trails or a cul de sac. The Ground Force's quiet variable-speed, chain-driven motor is powered by two 12-volt batteries, which deliver approximately 45 minutes of drive time per charge.

Spalding 72351 Portable Basketball System: Enjoy years of recreational basketball fun in your backyard with the Spalding residential portable basketball system(model 72351), which features a 37.5-gallon base that fills with water or sand for stability. It offers a three-piece, 3.0-inch diameter silver pole and the Pro Glide lift system for easy height adjustment from 7.5 to 10 feet in 6-inch increments. It's matched with a 44-inch poly-carbonate backboard, 5/8-inch solid steel Slam Jam breakaway rim, and an all-weather net.

The Sims 2 Deluxe (Sims 2 and Sims Nightlife Expansion): Enjoy all the fun and creativity of The Sims 2 in The Sims 2 Deluxe. Create your own houses, neighborhoods, Sims, and family dynasties?then watch it all come to life! Will your Sims experience the rewards of a life well lived? Or will you choose to neglect their needs, indulge their fears, and see what happens? As your Sims' family grows, you'll see them pass on genes from one generation to the next. The Sims 2 Deluxe also contains The Sims 2 Nightlife Expansion Pack and a bonus DVD.

Revell Vexplorer Robotics System: Design and build endless configurations. Partially assembled with the claw, arm tower and wheel sub-assemblies already built, you can have a working motor in less than an hour. Then you can tear it apart to make your own unique robot. "The arm" reaches high and low to grab.. Whatever%u2026"The Claw" Strong enough to pick up a 12 ounce can, and sensitive enough to pick up a feather. For kids 14+ and their parents who want to mix fun and exploration with science and technology education.

Wondering what to give your Mom this Christmas that will show her how much you love and appreciate her and bring a smile to her face?? Here's a list of some gifts especially designed to show Moms just how special they are%u2026.and watch out for my other Top 10 Gift ideas for the other special people in your life!

1) Digital Picture Frame/ Keychain: Gift Mom a bundle of memories with a Digital Picture frame or Keychain. These Digital Picture Frames are available in all shapes, sizes & prices. They are usually compatible with most types of memory sticks/cards and don't even require to be plugged into a computer to load data. So why keep a single picture in a frame when you can rotate a selection of digital photos, video and music? Just load it up with her favorite family photos, videos, music and you're sure to make your mom shed a tear of joy!

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a) PanDigital 9.2" Digital Picture Frame: This easy-to-operate 9.2" frame displays your personal memories on a bright, clear LCD screen.(Original Price $249.99 Sale Price $199.99)

b) Sungale SA7A 7" Digital Photo Frame: The SA7A digital multimedia player supports both JPEG photo viewing, music (MP3) and (WMA) playback. (Original Price $160 Sale Price $77.99)

c) Sharper Image Digital Photo Keychain, 1.4": A pocket full of memories. This brilliant keychain displays high-resolution digital photos on an ultra-bright, full-color 1.4" LCD screen. The 8MB internal memory holds up to 60 pictures to be enjoyed any time you grab your keys.(Original Price $34.99 Sale Price $29.99)

d) Photoblitz by Matsunichi PF7e 7-Inch Digital Picture Frame: This 7-inch Digital Picture Frame combines all the tasteful features of a traditional picture frame with the latest digital age innovations.

 

2) Fragrace Gift Set: A sweet smelling choice of gift would be a fragrance gift set of your Mom's favorite scent ranging from a romantic & classic floral scent, a zesty & energizing citrus scent or warm & exotic spicy scent! There's a whole array of gift sets to choose from starting with celebrity fragrances like Glow & JLo, Covet by Sarah Jessica Parker, 'Paris Spectacular' by Paris Hilton, White Diamonds by Elizabeth Taylor, Gwen Stefani's "L" and Fantasy by Britney Spears. Fragrances by designers are hugely popular as well and include Calvin Klein's Obsession & Euphoria Blossom, Clinique's From the Heart, DKNY's Be Delicious, Escada's Into the Blue, Estee Lauder's Beautiful To Go, Dolce & Gabbana The One and Vera Wang's Princess.
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a) Liz Claiborne Perfume Spray Collection: This deluxe collection of top women's designer fragrances include .5 oz perfume sprays of Realities, Curve Kicks, NEW Sweet Desire by Realities and Curve Crush as well as a silver travel mirror. (Original Value: $240 Now for: $29.50)

b) Lancôme Trésor Splendors Set: Set includes: Eau de Parfum Spray 3.4 Fl. oz, Perfumed Body Crème 5.3 oz, Foaming Bath Gel 3.4 Fl. oz. and Miniature Parfum .25 Fl. oz.(Original Value: $245 Now for:$92.00)

c) Davidoff Cool Water Surprisingly Cool Set for Women: Davidoff Cool Water Woman offers a special delight in SURPRISINGLY COOL. Boxed and ready for gift giving, inside she'll find full size versions of - Eau de Toilette Spray, Moisturizing Body Lotion, Gentle Shower Breeze PLUS a deluxe mini of NEW Cool Water Wave Eau de Toilette. (Original Value: $123 Now for:$59.00)

d) Live by Jennifer Lopez Holiday Gift Set: Give the gift of fun with the Live by Jennifer Lopez holiday gift set. This gift set includes a 3.4 oz. Eau de Parfum Spray, Sexy Vibe Body Lotion and a dual Live and Live Luxe deluxe rollerball.

3) Jewelry: Diamonds are a Girls Best Friend%u2026..and don't forget your Mom is a girl! A piece of jewelry anything from a pair or earrings, bracelet, necklace or pendant is a great gift and will be worn and cherished for years to come! Remember all that Glitters need not necessarily be Gold or Diamonds and it's the Thought that counts%u2026not how much it costs!

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a) 14K Gold Diamond Accent Earrings: Diamond accents add glitzy sparkle to a traditional knot design. Set in 14k gold. (Regular Price $200 On Sale: $99)

b) Cultured Freshwater Pearl Multistrand Bracelet Collection: Five strands of luminous cultured freshwater pearl make a bold, luxe statement. Set in sterling silver. Each sold separately. (Regular Price $60 On Sale: $29)

c) Triple Smoky Quartz Drops Necklace: The Triple Smoky Quartz Drops Necklace is a great example of the Kuo Ting style. This piece has a delicate gold chain that connects with a hook and box clasp. The three, quartz pendant hangs loosely on the chain to give movement and a Y- shape. A very pretty piece for any occasion. (Regular Price $143 On Sale: $99)

d) 14k Gold Diamond "#1 Mom" Charm: Diamond accents add a touch of sparkle to this dainty "#1 Mom" charm. This classy charm spells out, in the most elegant way, just how special she is. It's finished with a lobster claw clasp that allows it to attach easily to a bracelet or chain.(Regular Price $249 On Sale: $99.99)

4) Make-up/ Skin Care Gift Set: Keep Mom looking young and vibrant with a make-up/ skin care gift set. Lots of brands to choose from like Elizabeth Arden, Clinique, Prescriptives ,Shiseido, MAC, Lancome and Clarins.

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a) Prescriptives Colorscope Refillable Palette for Eyes and Cheeks-Warm: Comes filled with a special holiday Cheek Color (in Ginger with gold overspray) and Highlighter (in Warm Light with gold overspray), six Eye Colors (in Frosting, Malt Sparkle, Pongee, Apricot, Antique Gold, and NEW Goldleaf) and a limited edition double-ended brush. (Original Value: $240 Now for: $29.50)

b) Clinique Eye Favorites: Everything she needs to let her eyes shine. A unique collection of special value, in a luscious pink mirrored makeup case. Set includes All About Eyes High Impact Mascara in Black, Long Last Lipstick in Sugared Maple, Colour Surge Eye Shadow Palette with 6 shades, Take the Day Off Makeup Remover for Lids, Lashes & Lips! (Original Value: $72 Now for: $32.50)

C) Shiseido Brilliant Revitalizer Set: Brighten up the holiday season with an exclusive collection of ground breaking skincare technology that brightens, targets spots and retexturizes to reveal a more lustrous skin. Collection includes full size Bio-Performance Advanced Super Revitalizer Cream Whitening Formula, a travel size White Lucent Brightening Refining Softener and deluxe samples of White Lucent Brightening Cleansing Foam , White Lucent Brightening Massage Cream and White Lucent Concentrated Brightening Serum. Also includes complimentary facial massage gift certificate and compact mirror. (Original Value: $150 Now for: $100)

d) Elizabeth Arden Ceramide Gift Set: This luxurious set includes a full size Ceramide Gold Ultra Restorative Capsules Intensive Treatment for Face and Throat with CLX complex (60 capsules). Also included: Ceramide Plump Perfect Moisture Cream SPF 30, Ceramide Plump Perfect Eye Moisture Cream SPF 15 and travel size Ceramide Purifying Cream Cleanser. All in a champagne gold quilted travel case. (Original Value: $137 Now for: $79.50)

5) Watch: A watch is a Timeless gift! As a gift, a watch is something she will cherish and remember whenever she looks at the time! It can be given a personalized touch by getting a messaged embossed/ carved on it like "I love you Mom" or "You're a Timeless beauty Mom!" A watch is a true keepsake and a wonderful gift you can't go wrong with.

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a) Velvet Crystal Watch: Timed right with crystal sparkle. Fashion's big on bold timepieces like this rectangular-shaped watch fashion-detailed with a crystal bezel and adjustable 7" length velvet strap. (Original Price: $69.99 On Sale: $34.99)

b) Hugo Boss Women's Donna Stainless Steel White Dial: HUGO BOSS is innovation, creativity and fascination. A unique and distinctive style timepiece that gives fresh and bold look to any scene. (Original Price: $695 On Sale: $152.99)

c) Baby Phat 'Luscious' Watch: A classic style watch with updated features. Genuine leather strap with whip stitched detail along top and finished with a faux diamond bezel. (Original Price: $125 On Sale: $75.99)

d) Ladies' Citizen Stainless Steel Bangle Watch with Crystal Bezel : This ladies' Citizen bangle watch has a black dial in a rectangular case with a Swarovski crystal accented bezel. It is water-resistant and comes with a five-year limited warranty (Original Price: $200 On Sale:$150)

Halloween is the time to play dress up! Kids Love pretending to be their favorite Cartoon or Movie character...and lets face it parents you love seeing your kids all decked up to go trick or treating! Here are some of the cutest Costumes you can get your kids this Halloween.

1) Scaredy Bat Costume: A perfect way to bring in Halloween! A great costume, perfect for your little creature!

2) Fairy Costume: A vibrant fairy that is always merry! She'll flutter through the forest, sprinkling a little magic on everything she sees! This Halloween, take a trip to the magical land of fairies.

3) Harry Potter Costume: Let you Kid experience the magic or Halloween the Harry Potter way as the great Boy Wizard himself or as his friends Hermione, Ron or as the Great Dumbledore himself....or even Voldemort!

4) Minnie Mouse Costume: Tranform your lovely Children into their favortive Disney Character like Minnie or Mickey, Daisy or Donald or Ariel the Mermaid or even Cruela-De-Vil!!

5) Boxer Costume: He's the champ of this Halloween match! Have your little one give a one, two punch to Halloween this year!

6) Super-Hero Costume: Make your little one feel like a Super Hero and save Halloween! Superman, Spiderman, Batman or even one of the Incredibles!

7) Star Wars Costumes: For 1000 generations, the Jedi knights were the guardians of peace and order in the galaxy%u2026 Let your child be a defender of the Galactic Republic in this Jedi costume or you favorite Star Wars Character...Yoda, Anakin, Princess Leia or even Darth Vader!

8) Cat in the Hat Costume: A fun costume from the movie Dr. Seuss' Cat in the Hat.

9) Scooby-Doo Character Costume: Let your kid choose a favorite Cartoon character to transform into this Halloween!

10) Knight Costume: Be A hero of the Dark Age. Where ever there's a damsel in distress, the Medieval Hero will come to save the day. Make your child your Knight in shinning armour!

       Who said Halloween is just for kids? Everyone likes playing dress up and lets face it now-a-days who has the time to make your own costume for that costume party your invited to or throwing! Here are some great ideas and deals for Women….but if you want to be adventurous why not go for one of the men's costumes?...anyway the choice is yours…here's my Top 10 Favorite Halloween Costumes for Women.

1)Queen Costume: Heads will turn and conversations will stop when you make an entrance as a Queen. It's the perfect costume if your hosting the party. Whether the Queen of Hearts or an Elizabethan Queen….you'll be treated like Royalty!

2)Witch Costume: You can never go wrong with a witch costume for Halloween. You can play it safe with the classic black witch or dress it up and go with a funky and colorful witch. Now which witch would you wear?

3)Devil Costume:  You'll have a hell of a good time in this sassy costume! Sometimes its good to be bad...and a devils costume can be sexy and naughty if you want it to.

4)Angel Costume: Don't like playing bad? Then be an angelic vision in white or take a walk on the dark side coz everyone has a dark side...even angels!

5)Super-Hero Costume: Super Woman, Wonder woman, Cat woman, Bat Girl..... need i say more!?? With these costumes you'll be wishing you had real powers! 

6)Fairytale Costume: Mirror,Mirror on the wall who's the fairest of them all?? Snow white, Little Red Riding Hood, Cinderella.....want that happily ever after....then this is the best type of costume for you...but you may want to spice it up or bit so you're not considered a kid!

7)Pirate Costume: Yo Ho-Ho....and a bottle O'rum! Be a Seven seas Siren in a very hip Pirate costume.....dress just like  real pirate Elizabeth in Pirates of the Caribbean or put a feminine spin and be a royal lady pirate this Halloween.

8)Wizard of Oz Costume:  Classics never go out of style!  Wizard of Oz characters are Halloween favorites. Be Dorothy, the Tinman, the scarecrow, cowardly lion or the wicked witch......Just remember to click your heels together 3 times....and have fun! 

 9)Movie Costume: Be Trinity from the Matrix , Foxy Cleopatra from Austin Powers, Jasmine from Aladdin, Princess Leia from Star Wars or even Princess Fiona from Shrek...the possibilities in this categories are endless! 

 

10)Humorous Costume: Why not go all out and wear something outrageous and funny! Let you hair down and go over the top with your costume this year like this Turkey Costume or Kissing Booth costume!

Thanksgiving is one of my favorite holidays it includes the two things that matter the most to me Family and Good Food! Thanksgiving Dinner- Turkey, Ham, Stuffing, Mashed potatoes, Cranberry sauce, Green beans, Gravy, Crescent rolls, Pecan candied yam, decorations, the centerpiece, drinks....and so much more. Thanksgiving can be quite expensive and a bit overwhelming if you're on a budget. So here's a few ways you can have a Penny-Wise Thanksgiving and spend like the Pilgrims while you Dine like the Kings!

Get Organized: Being organized, planning everything ahead of time is the best way to budget anything, that way you know exactly what you need in advance. When you know what you need you can always buy things well before and distribute the cost over a longer period so you don't feel the pinch all at once. Write down the menu and make a shopping list from the recipes. Let's face it, the ingredients you need to prepare a Thanksgiving dinner can really eat a hole in your budget. The good thing is there are usually buy one get one free sales to save your budget, so you can shop as far ahead of time as you can seizing these opportunities to save. Opt, for example for a regular frozen turkey as fresh turkeys often are more expensive. Turkey can be safely stored in the freezer at 0 degrees F so you can purchase a turkey when it goes on sale. A good tip, if your store allows it, is to only buy one item (unless you need two) and if you're a coupon clipper, use those coupons. Make special efforts to clip coupons or to take advantage of the holiday specials that certain stores run (ex. Spend $35 a week for 6 weeks and get $20 of groceries for free). All these ideas are certainly great ways to cope with holiday budget constraints.

Know your Portions: Depending on what your family's traditional main dish is, whether turkey, ham, or duck, make sure that you buy the right size. It's tempting to have big, beautiful bird but it's more sensible to buy only as much as you need keeping in mind the number of people coming. Buy at least one pound of turkey for each person you are serving. The smallest turkeys usually weigh about 12 pounds, so if you are serving four people you should have plenty of leftovers. If you are worried that the turkey will seem small when you get it on the large serving platter you can add garnishes to the outside to make it look fuller surrounding it with a roasted vegetable medley.

Plan your Side Dishes: Instead of going all out with the Side-dishes and having them just because its tradition see which side dishes are popular with your family and guests and limit it to a few really good ones and skip the rest. For example, one dressing, sweet potatoes or mashed potatoes, a green vegetable like string beans or Brussels sprouts, cranberry sauce, and perhaps a salad.

Try a Potluck: Why not ask your guests to prepare a side dish or bring some beverages or a dessert? This really works well as the burden of the expenses as well as the cooking doesn't fall only on one person and you'll be surprised as how happy your guests feel being a part of the dinner. Try to match up people with what they do best...like my sister makes the best Salads...and even though my brother can't cook for nuts he's getting the crescent rolls while his friend is bringing the apple cider. This not only helps you with your budget but also allows you to pay more attention to your duties of the Turkey, the setting the table and playing host.

Beverages: Instead of expensive wines.....a good old non-alcoholic punch is all you need, it may be a little extra work but really helps with the budget. If you're not a fan of punch try flavored iced teas, lemonade or apple-cider.

Decorations: Keep it simple and make your own decorations. I personally love a rustic fall feel during thanksgiving. So just walk outside and gather some colorful leaves, acorns, twigs, pinecones and branches. Using a branch and a glue-gun you can create your own center piece. And who said Pumpkins were only for Halloween...they make excellent thanksgiving decoration. Candles are also a great way of decorating and exude warmth and welcome. Tea candles work well when displayed in glasses and are also a little more budget friendly. Or just pull out those Christmas tree lights and drape them over a bookcase, around the room or if you have a big bowl or vase just dump them in. Keep hold of the decorations and candles to use for Christmas or even next Thanksgiving!

Store your Leftovers Carefully: For the turkey take the time to remove the meat and wrap it carefully in saran wrap or air-tight containers, it will remain nice and moist and tempting for the next meals. For the immediate next dinner, place the turkey in a plastic container, put a piece of waxed paper and then put some wet paper towels atop that, keeps it nice and moist for sandwiches the next night. This allows you to extend your Thanksgiving budget for a few days longer and since Christmas is just around the corner you'll need it.

Whatever you choose to do on thanksgiving, make sure you focus on what's truly important- the fact that you have your family and so very much to be thankful for Remember that you don't have to spend a great deal to give thanks and enjoy time with your family.....the pilgrims did it....and so can we!

Black Friday is synonymous with large crowds of aggressive bargain hunters, contending with messy stores and clueless employees just to get the gift list squared away by Christmas. This is an exciting time for many shoppers, but it is a nightmare for many others. The sheer number of people that go to the malls is only outdone by the number of deals that are provided by stores. Many people shun most forms of shopping for the entire weekend, either because they can't stand crowds or they're turned off by the notion of people shopping from pre-dawn 'til after dark. Here are some Tips to Help Light up your Black Friday Shopping!

1) Shop Online!

Stop and think about it%u2026it's probably the smartest thing to do%u2026No Crowds%u2026No Lines%u2026No Parking woes%u2026you don't even have to change out of your pajamas! Remember that shopping isn't just limited to the stores. Online shopping centers will also have deals on this day. What's more, many online retailers offer sales and special discounts on the Friday after Thanksgiving - and sometimes those sales kick in at midnight on the night before Black Friday. But things on the internet are just as susceptible to getting picked and going out of stock as things in the store. Because of that, you need to go about searching for the best deals over the internet as soon as Black Friday hits.

2) Do your Research Before-hand

Organization is a key to conquering Black Friday whether shopping online or at retail stores. Either way to avoid missing great deals, rushing into buying something you don't really need and freaking out running amuck and ultimately stressing yourself out, a good idea is to make a list of what you want or gift ideas for certain people and research the deals you can avail on them. Keep back up items in mind incase what your looking for is sold out. Take note of all the newspaper Ads, store timings, time specific deals and coupons. Collect & keep all the coupons (a great way to save!) and lists ready in a safe place for the Big Day!

3) Compare Prices

Use Internet shopping sites like Dealplumber.com, Pricegrabber.com or shopping.com which allow you to compare prices across the web. Find the best price on online, make sure your getting up-to-date information, read merchant reviews, product descriptions, specifications, product reviews, plus pictures and coupons. Reading the user reviews and ratings for various products will give you a general idea of the authenticity of the merchant, service provided and quality of products dealt with.

4) Beat the Early Birds by being a Night Owl Shopper!

Stores offer Early Day Shopper Specials and run deals between 5 a.m. until 11 a.m. with no "rain checks" which means once they run out of the products, you are out of luck. Internet shoppers can beat the Early Birds by shopping online in the pre-dawn hours of Black Friday. Many retailers will be posting their Black Friday specials, which can be ordered, online and picked-up at your local store. A lot of sites hold "Web Only" deals that may start as early as Thanksgiving Eve.

5) If you Must Brave the Crowds%u2026..

Be prepared with your list, back-up list, newspapers cuttings of Ads, store timings and coupons. Decide which stores you'll visit first, prioritize items in your list and shop accordingly to avoid losing out on what you need/ want most. Dress comfortably - warmly enough for the outdoors but not so much for when you're in stuffy crowed stores. Take along the right shopping buddy a spouse family member or friend (avoid taking your kids) and use the 'Divide and conquer' policy. This will make it easier to take advantage of the early-bird deals in different stores. Ensure your getting a good bargain%u2026.this is where your research should pay off and remember when purchasing any product that 'A bad product is a bad deal no matter how cheap it costs!'

Follow these simple tips to Light up your Black Friday. Let the day be fun and advantageous and not stressful. If you're Lucky you'll get some great deals and can tick off some of those things from your list, if not, don't fret you've got the rest of shopping season to pick up a bargain%u2026and trust me there'll be many!

Jeans are probably the most common item of clothing owned by people today! They are also one of the only items of clothing that will not go out of fashion any time soon even though the style they come in may change. Jeans are versatile and can be worn in many different ways, but finding the perfect pair of jeans can be quite painstaking. Here are a few tips to remember while looking for that perfect pair of denims.

Always buy jeans or any item of clothing for that matter with your 'body shape' in mind. Two women could be the same height and weight but have a totally different shape. It is important to make sure that you buy jeans that flatter your body type and hide or take away emphasis on any flaws, as they can determine how good the rest of your outfit will look on you. For example, an extra slim fit will work wonders on someone with long and lean legs but at the same time, they can be a disaster for someone who carries bulk on the legs or derriere because they highlight the original shape of your legs and bottom.

Here are some of the choices you are faced with while looking for jeans -
Fits: This refers to how tight, how close to the skin the pants should be worn. Example: Regular jeans, slim jeans,skinny jeans, extra slim and relaxed or loose fit.
Cuts: This refers to the actual shape of the pants (Leg, waist and pocket types). Example: Boot cut, straight-leg, tapered, wide leg or flare-leg
Rise: Rise means nothing more than how far below the belly button the jeans will sit. It is measured from the crotch to waist. Example: Regular-rise, High-rise, Low-rise and Ultra low-rise jeans.
Washes and Finishes: Usually with the purpose of achieving a soft, worn in look. Vintage, Distressed, Stone-wash, Tint, Torn and Creased are some examples.
Embellishments: Anything goes here, but embroidery and rhinestones are the favorites at the moment.

Look for denim with a bit of stretch for better comfort and fit. Stretch can go a long way in helping you find you're best fitting jeans.
Boot-cut and flared jeans give a long and lean look, which is flattering to most women. The rule of thumb while selecting the right wash type is that, the dark wash is very slimming while light wash can add some volume. So, choose the right wash appropriately depending on, whether you want right volume or not.

Be conscious of back pockets: both placement and size have a great effect on how well your rear will look. Avoid tiny pockets as well as pockets that are too far apart, they will make your butt look oversized. Pockets that are situated lower on the jeans make your bottom look higher. Be careful with embellishments and faded finishes in the rear because if you do not want to attract too much attention to your rear end, don't decorate it!

Having such a great selection of jeans online makes it easier to find both the right fit and style. If the measurements aren't available, do an online search for the measurements of that particular brand and size. You might be able to find measurements for almost any type of jeans online. Knowing the measurements, you can buy with confidence that the jeans will fit. Knowing which brand names suit you will also make it easier to shop online and will usually be consistent in the way they fit if you stay with one particular brand.

Popular Brands include Levis, Lee, Wrangler, Lee Cooper, GAP,Old Navy and others. Designer jeans by companies like Calvin Klein, Diesel, Guess, Polo, Rock & Republic, Juicy Couture,Seven Jeans , True Religion Jeans, Citizens of Humanity,Denim for Immortality Denim for Immortality and others.

For anyone looking to purchase jewelry, online shopping can be a great way to find the right piece at the right price. One major advantage of buying jewelry online is convenience - you need travel no further than your computer to choose your jewelry and make your purchase. You can also look at the products of a no of merchants in one sitting without having to travel. But, there are things you need to consider in order to make your jewelry purchase a positive experience.

The purity of gold is shown as 24k, 22k, 18k, 14k and so on .'K' stands for Karats and symbolizes the amount of gold mixed in with other metals. The number indicates purity. 18k gold is comprised of 18 parts of gold and 6 parts of other metals. 12K gold contains 12 parts of gold out of 24. The purest form of gold is 24k, but it is too soft to make jewelry from 24k gold so other metals are alloyed with gold to harden it, such as copper, iron, nickel, platinum, steel, silver, and zinc. Alloying gold with different metals makes it easier to work with as well as more affordable. Different alloys can also be used to give gold a different color. For example, nickel or platinum can be used to create white gold and copper is used to create a golden rosy tone.

It's important to research what makes a quality diamond. Deciding to purchase a ring solely on price isn't the way to go, and the price of a diamond ring means very little unless you understand the 4 "C's" of diamond quality-
The four "C's" consist of color, cut, clarity, and carat size.
Clarity: This signifies the presence or absence of irregularities or imperfections in the stone. Imperfections may appear as bubbles, spots, or lines. The clarity is often determined by the passing of light through the diamond. The fewer imperfections the diamond jewelry has, the more valuable it will be.
Cut: The cut is what gives a diamond its brilliance and determines the number of facets in the diamond. The "round brilliant" cut is the most popular diamond cut, especially for an engagement ring.Princess cut, Baguette cut and Oval cut are some of the other popular choices.
Color: Diamond color also determines the value. Colorless diamonds are the most valuable; however, diamonds with color are popular for non-proposal gifts.
Carats: A diamond's carat is the actual weight of the diamond, not the size. One carat is equal to 200 milligrams. One ounce contains 142 carats. Larger diamonds usually have a greater value for each carat.

The 'Setting' is very important while picking out a diamond ring. Diamonds can be set in different ways. Setting is just a way to hold the diamond in place within the jewelry piece. The most common are prong, bezel, and flush type setting. Prong settings are usually used for diamond solitaire rings. Thin wires of either gold or platinum are employed to hold the gem. For a bezel type of setting, the metal is wrapped around the diamond. For flush setting or burnished setting, the diamond is sunk into the gold or platinum metal until it is in flush with the surface.

Another point to consider is the'Shape' of the diamond. Diamonds do come in various shapes and forms, contrary to the famous belief that they all come in a circular shape, although round diamonds are very common, as it comprises around 75 percent of diamonds out in the market today. But aside from the round-shaped diamonds, there are also oval, pear-shaped, and heart-shaped diamonds. Right now, the most popular shape is the Princess cut diamond, which is rectangular in shape but it has many sparkling facets.

When buying diamond jewelry online, be sure the jeweler offers a Jewelry Certificate of Authenticity. Check with Better Business Bureau Online to be sure the retailer is trustworthy. The BBB Online will show if there have been any complaints or reports of fraud against the company. This will give you peace of mind while shopping. Use search features at jewelry sites to find just the right diamond jewelry. Look for the four Cs mentioned above and ask about the diamond's weight if it's not provided at the website. Also, check to be sure the shipping and handling will keep your diamond safe. Find out if shipping insurance is available and what types of packaging is used. Also, ask for assistance if you have questions, a dependable online jeweler will be available to help.

Handbags!- Totes, hobos, satchels, quilted, patent, jacquard, croc,metallic %u2026lets face it the list of types of bags available today is pretty exhausting, so here's a guide of the must have Handbags to lookout for this Fall!!

Bright Color Handbags :It's time to ditch those pastels coz this seasons designs are Bold with Vibrant colors! It's the perfect way to add a dash of color to a somber outfit and brighten it up! For example theCharlie Lapson "Heidi" Handbag

The Clutch: Clearly my mom was right, and good things do come in small packages. The clutch is back, and its simple, unobtrusive style will go with all of this season's top trends. A clutch is the perfect accessory when all you need for the night is an ID and a smile. The clutch is timeless, sophisticated and very chic!For example- Kooba 'Roxanne' Clutch in Black

Patent Leather: Patent Leathers 'HOT' this season. And your way ahead of the game if you get yourself a bright colored Handbag in Patent just like The Find "Decked Out" Handbag

Metallic:Metallic handbags have been totally hot for a few seasons now. From matte metallic to bold metallic to brushed metallic and especially a super bold, reflective in your face silver and gold!

Textured Handbags: Textured Handbags are huge this season. It may be a Croc or snakeskin embossed bag in patent, a woven one, quilted one or even a fringe bag%u2026but textures are here to stay!

Animal Prints: The call of the wild is strong this season. These bold animal prints and details can be the centerpiece of an outfit, so beware of accessories overload.

All women know as well as I do that Shoes can make or break an outfit. Shoes can give personality to your style and a boost of sexy confidence to you. Here are some of the more buzz-worthy new styles and trends of Autumn or just the revival of some old ones you'll be sure to 'fall' for!

Ankle Boots/ Booties: Back from the 80's these ankle length boots also known as booties are smoking Hot this season especially the mens wear inspired oxford-shoe type Booties. Booties can vary in length, from the super-short variety, which falls just under the ankle, to the longer version, which hits right above the ankle. Be sure to avoid showing flesh when wearing these boots (i.e. no minis) since the high cut of the shoe can make your legs shorter than they really are. Another way to wear the ankle boot is to pair them with tights or leggings which are the same color as the boots.

Animal Prints: Leopard spots, tiger, zebra stripes%u2026..in short Animal prints draped over any style of shoe like stilettos, pumps, platforms and even booties are huge this season, so it's time to go Wild! Be careful to pair your animal print shoes with subtle solid colors don't overdo patterns and prints and make the focal point of your outfit the shoes%u2026.its a tough one to pull off so keep it simple and let the shoes do the talking!

Patent Leather: Love it or hate it%u2026.but you can't deny that patent leather has made a huge statement in a lot of fashion trends lately and shoes are no exception to this! Pumps, stilettos, boots, flats, peep-toes%u2026%u2026you name it and it's available in Patent. This is a very versatile style and can be worn with just about anything to complete any look be it Office, party or evening wear.

Mary-Janes: The "Oh so school-girl" look is back with the ever so famous Mary-Jane style shoes! The grown up version of these shoes may come in the form of flats or chunky heels. Team these with a smart skirt or skinny jeans and your set to go!

Wedges: Thought this look was only for summer? Think again the wedge heel is on all this fall season styles including boots making them hard to miss!

Casual Flat Boots: 'These boots were made for walking%u2026..' While ankle boots are creating a stir this season, it's hard to resist the undeniable sexiness of a high boot. Flats are in but some of us -not so tall ones could use them with a small heel%u2026like a wedge heel. Wear over skinny jeans if you've got long legs or just team them up with a flowy skirt or dress.

Ballerina Flats: Those comfy, feet- and back-saving flats are still going strong this season. They have been infused with a touch of glamour with the addition of ornate jewels and other shiny trimmings.

Bright Colors: Bright colors in every type of shoe imaginable from flats to pumps, peep-toes, pointy shoes, wedges, patents%u2026%u2026to add that dash of color to any look is the way to go this season! Team is with any of the above trends and your set!

Popular Designers: Steve Madden, Guess, Marc Fisher, BCBGirls, Nine West, Vera Wangand many more.........

Coats!yes, one of my favorite things about Autumn is that its time to buy myself a new coat! There's just something about wearing a smart coat that makes you feel confident and chic. Choosing a coat is tricky business coz you have to keep in mind that it has to be versatile and go with a lot of your wardrobe, it has to be suitably warm depending on the weather of the region you live in and it has to make a statement about your style! So here some of the popular designer styles to be seen in this Autumn/ Winter and some great deals on them.

Pea Coat: The Pea Coat may have begun as a nautical necessity, but these days it's a fashion must-have. This short coat is great way to ward off the chill.

Kenneth Cole Refined Wool Pea Coat-The classic peacoat, with a tailored fit, feminine details and double- breasted style.

Calvin Klein Wool Pea Coat- Calvin Klein puts a chic spin on the classic pea coat with seaming detail and a sleek fit.

Tahari Military Pea Coat- The classic pea coat that goes anywhere, weekday or weekend.

Nine West Hooded Pea Coat- A chic way to ward off the chill, this hooded pea coat offers both style and function.

Knee-length Wool Coats : The classic knee-length Coats will never go out of style in my books. They're classy, chic and can be dressed up or down whichever you like. It's a must-have! They come in all types belted, single or double breasted, quilted, checked, bright colored%u2026.so you choose.

DKNY Wool Coat with Contrast Belt-Make a chic statement with the temperature falls in this sleek wool coat by DKNY.

Calvin Klein Double-Breasted Belted Walker Coat- This fabulous wool coat exudes chic style with a wide, mod-inspired belt.

Perry Ellis Textured Belted Coat- Leather trim and a leather belt lend this chic wool coat a luxe touch.

Nine West Wool Belted Coat- A wide lapel lends a chic, updated look to the classic wool coat.

Quilted/ Puffer Coats : Textures are huge this season and what better way to feel warm and cozy other than a quilted coat! Quilted and Puffer coats are definitely the way to go this season. Oversized, belted or colored you pick!

Kenneth Cole Chevron-Quilted Coat- A lightweight quilted jacket with a fitted silhouette.

DKNY Down Coat With Leather Belt- Sizzle while facing the chill in this chic puffer coat from DKNY.

Jones New York Belted Coat With Pillow-Collar- As fashionable as it is cozy, this oversized quilted coat is puffy and warm without sacrificing a flattering fit.

Laundry by Shelli Segal Fur-Collar Down Coat- A wide, plush, detachable fur collar distinguishes this down puffer coat and lets you wear it two chic ways.

Faux-Shearling/ Faux-Fur Coats : Faux coz the real thing just ain't an option for those of us with limited pockets. But with these faux-shearling and fur coats you get the same look and feel of s luxurious coat without feeling the pinch!

Larry Levine Faux-Shearling Jacket- A fabulous fake by Larry Levine: luxuriously soft and cozy in imitation shearling.

Jones New York Long Faux-Shearling Coat- Get the great look and feel of a shearling with this chic Jones New York coat.

Calvin Klein Faux-ShearlingStay warm this season in a chic shearli

There are so many sleek and impressive looking cell phones on the market these days that it's hard to resist the temptation to buy one. Today's cell phones are so much more than means to communicate. You can use it as a personal planner, check on news on the internet, send email, take pictures, shoot videos, play games, send messages and many more. Having a phone with all this won't be cheap, so it's really very important to determine just exactly what we need our cell phones to do.

Which service you want?

The first choice is almost always dependent on our preference for a wireless service provider. The key items here are

* the kind of coverage it offers and

* the type of monthly service plan it has in your location.

Once done, you will then have to select from the wide array of phones that your service provider has to offer.

What Phone features you want?

Next, you have to think of the phone's features and this depends on how much you travel. If you're a world traveler, then you need a phone with global wireless standard. You will then need a dual-mode phone that can communicate in both digital and analog. These are much more dependable for globetrotters than single-mode models, especially if you will be going to isolated places or rural areas where digital service may be nonexistent.

What kind of design you want?

The next decision is probably the most fun one: design. Do you want one of those phones that are designed like a clamshell and just flip open? Or are you more inclined towards those that look like candybars and don't flip open? Or are you looking for the ones which slide open? For convenience, flip phones are tougher to use, especially if the base is lighter than the cover. Would you like a phone with/www.dealplumber.com/67-OFF-on-Motorola-V3-Pink-Magenta-Razr-Unlocked-Phone/18768"target="new tab"> a dual screen, the one with a small LCD on the cover as well as an internal display? The main considerations are that the phone should be easy to use, comfortable to your ear and made of a design that reflects your personal tastes.

How much you are prepared to pay?
Finally, you will want to decide on special features. What do you want your cell phone to do? Oftentimes, this consideration is tied in to how much we are prepared to spend, so it's not that difficult a decision after all.

If you're a Coffee buff like me, you know the importance of having a good Coffee maker! For those of you looking to buy your first Coffee Maker or just replacing your current one here are some tips on what you should consider while looking for that machine to make your perfect cup-a-joe in the morning.

 

Size : Ask yourself how many cups of you'll be making on a regular basis. Keep in mind that when a Coffee Maker states single cup, 2-4 cups, 6-8 cups, 8-12 cups….that it signifies the no. of cups it can make at a time.

Coffee Filter : While choosing a Coffee Maker it's very important to consider what type of filter you want. Some coffee makers come with paper filters or a more permanent filter. Paper filters are said to impart an aftertaste into the coffee, and they absorb some of the special flavor molecules and aromatic oils from your coffee beans, which are what gives your cup of joe its tantalizing taste. For a permanent filter you can choose a basket type filter or a cone shaped filter, the difference in the two being different contact times between the coffee grounds and the water. A basket type filter provides a longer contact time between the water and the coffee grounds, so if a basket filter is your preference, make sure you use coffee grounds that are fairly large. Cone type filters are generally less prone to spillage.

Water Filter : If you don't use a water filter before you brew your coffee, then you should consider a coffee machine with a built in water filter to clean chlorine that comes from your tap. Water filters take out any chlorine or iron tastes that may be present in your tap water. Bear in mind that you will need to buy replacement filters in the future.

Pause n' Serve :If you don't want to wait for the coffee to stop brewing before you have a fresh cup of coffee then the Pause n' Serve feature is a must for you. The Pause n' Serve feature allows you to remove the coffee pot before the brewing cycle is complete, without having coffee dribble all over the heating plate. The opening under the filter is low and touches the top of the pot. The valve closes when you take out the coffee pot.

Digital Programming : This feature is not a necessity but merely for convenience for those of us too busy or just plain lazy. It involves a timer which enables you to program your coffee making up to 24hrs in advance. A great use for this is for when you wake up for work, you have little time, so the coffee is waiting for you in the kitchen as soon as you're ready for it, very convenient. A part of this feature is the Auto-Off option for or those forgetful types who never remember whether or not they left the coffee maker on.

Integrated Bean Grinder : In general, coffee that is freshly ground tastes better. Not a typical feature, but you can buy coffee makers that have a built-in coffee bean grinder. These types of machines will usually grind just enough coffee with each use, for the freshest brew around. This way you do not need to buy a separate coffee bean grinder but Coffee makers with this feature tend to cost more.

Cup Warmer: Some coffee makers have mug-warming plates on them so that you can get your cup ready for the brew, usually a flat area on the top of the machine that's warm. It's simple but useful nonetheless.

Pod Compatibility :The latest thing in coffee making are pods. Pods are pre-packed discs of ground coffee which reduce the preparation time quite dramatically, making coffee preparation a snap with no mess. Newer models of coffee machine can take both pods and normal loose coffee.

Cleaning : If you cannot easily wash the coffee pot with soap and water, your coffee will taste stale over time due to the build up of residue that cannot be cleaned easily, so make sure your entire hand can fit inside the coffee pot to make cleaning easy. Built-in grinders make the coffee maker harder to clean. For permanent filters, you may have to clean the filters after each use, but this little bit of extra work is well worth it. For easy cleanup a plastic drip tray that can be removed is good to have. It makes life just a little bit easier.

Popular Brands: Choosing the right coffee maker is not easy. Make sure you purchase from well-known manufacturers. You will be able to find replacement parts and will be assured of an acceptable level of quality. Some of the popular coffee maker manufacturers include Braun, Cuisinart, Mr. Coffee, Krups, Senseo, Black & Decker and KitchenAid.

Cookware is one of the most important purchases you will ever make for your kitchen. Different types of cookware are made of different materials and have different uses. Understanding the differences will help you make the best choice for you needs. The following are the most popular cookware materials-

Aluminum: Aluminum is a great material for cookware as it is lightweight, fairly strong and a good conductor of heat. Aluminum works well for sautéing and frying foods because if its heat responsiveness. Aluminum is also fairly inexpensive when compared to other cookware materials. However, uncoated aluminum will quickly collect scratches and look unsightly and with time it reacts to acidic and alkaline foods, causing it to corrode. Coated aluminum however, is much more acceptable and a better option.


Hard Anodized Aluminum: This is aluminum that has been given a special finish to protect it from corrosion. Hard anodized pans usually combine a high quality non-stick interior coating, as the hard anodized surface is not inherently non-stick. It is a good choice of material to look for in pots and pans for all most any type of cooking, the only disadvantage being it's not dishwasher safe.


Cast Iron: Cast iron cookware is inexpensive to moderately priced. It is fairly heavy and conducts heat evenly. It heats slowly but once it is hot it holds the heat well. This makes it good for deep frying and slow-cooking. It can be used on top of the stove and in the oven. Drawbacks to cast iron are that it rusts, stains and becomes pitted when exposed to air, moisture and certain foods.


Copper: Copper is one of the more expensive materials used to make cookware. It is very responsive to heat as it is the best conductor of heat. Copper has about ten times the heat conductivity of stainless steel and glass, and twice that of aluminum. One problem with copper is that it interacts with everything it comes in contact with. To make the copper pots and pans safe to use, they are lined with tin, silver or stainless steel to protect any surface that would come in contact with any food.


Non-Stick: This type of cookware has a coating applied to them that prevents food from sticking and makes clean up easier. The non-stick surface is really an advantage when cooking some foods especially sticky foods and it also reduces the amount of fat that is normally required when cooking. The disadvantages are that they may become too easily damaged by spatulas, spoons, forks, etc., especially metal ones, and that their durability has a short life expectancy. Even the newest non-stick coatings will begin to lose their resistance to sticking after only a few years; sooner if the pan is constantly overheated or cleaned in the dishwasher or with harsh detergents.

Stainless Steel: It is the most versatile material to use because it keeps its bright shine and has good tensile strength, preventing it from denting easily. Stainless steel is a good material for any type of pan because it does not corrode and does not react with alkaline or acidic materials. Its primary disadvantage is that it is an even poor conductor of heat, so that constant movement of the food is required in order to cook it evenly. To make stainless utensils better equipped for heat conductivity and distribution, an important layer of conductive material, such as copper or aluminum, is often added to the bottom of the pan and, sometimes, all around the pan. The heat conductive quality of stainless is about one tenth that of copper and about one fifth that of aluminum.

Porcelain: Porcelains can usually be used on the stove, in conventional and microwave ovens, and even under the broiler, provided there is ample liquid inside. They can also be used for storage in the refrigerator or freezer, are virtually non-stick, and are dishwasher safe. Porcelain enamel is applied as a coating only on pots and pans made of other material, such as cast iron or aluminum. It prevents them from corroding or reacting with the food being cooked. A pan coated with porcelain on the inside cannot be used for sautéing or frying but will work as a saucepan and can be used in the oven.


Tempered Glass: Available as flameproof and ovenproof glassware. Both types of glassware hold heat well but are not heat responsive. The flameproof glassware, which is fairly expensive, can be used in the microwave, on the stovetop and in the oven. It heats unevenly, resulting in hot spots that cause food to stick. Ovenproof glassware can be used in the microwave and in the oven, but if used on the stovetop, it must be used with a diffuser.


Popular Brands of cookware: Some of the widely known and poplar brands of cookware are- Calphalon, KitchenAid, Cuisinart, Pinzon, Farberware, Anolon and Circulon.

There are many types of pots and pans available for different cooking methods. It's important to choose your cookware carefully keeping in mind the type of food and cooking you'll be doing and how often you'll be using it. It's also good to consider how many people you'll be cooking for most and keep an appropriate size in mind while purchasing your cookware. Cookware is made of different materials and understanding the differences will help you choose the right type for your needs (See Cookware Guide- Cookware Materials). A good way of choosing the appropriate Pan is to match it to the task you'll need it for. Here are some of the important types of pans and skillets available today and what they are generally used for:-

Frying Pan/ Skillet: A frying pan has a flat bottom with short sides usually one to two-and-a-half inches deep that are flared or sloped, which makes it easier to toss and turn food with a spatula and a long handle for better handling. As the name suggests it is used for frying foods but can also be used for sautéing. Frying pans are available in several sizes, such as 6 ½", 7", 8", 9" 10", 11", 12", and 14". They are available in depths of 1 ½" to 3" and may come with a cover.

Sauté Pan: The term sauté, meaning to jump, implies frying quickly. A sauté pan is similar to a frying pan, except that its bottom is flat, and its sides are straight and deeper (up to four inches). Apart from being used for sautéing foods it can also be used for frying foods. The pan should have a long handle and it generally comes with a cover. Some of the larger models have a loop handle opposite the long handle that is used to assist in lifting the pan.

Grill Pan: A Grill Pan is a heavy metal pan that consists of ridges spaced evenly across the bottom that closely simulate the grilling process when cooking various meats and foods. They are available with shallow sides and with deeper sides similar to a frying pan. The ridges raise the food off the bottom surface of the pan, which helps prevent the food from steaming as it cooks. The ridges also serve as a method for allowing the fat contained in some foods to drain away from the food and collect in the spaces between the raised ridges.

Saucepan: A sauce pan is a round pot with high straight sides and a flat bottom. It usually has straight, or slightly sloping high sides four to seven inches tall, and a long handle. In sizes from about a pint to four quarts it is called a sauce pan. Above four quarts, usually squat and with two loop handles, it is called a Sauce Pot and Sauce Pots can also be considered Dutch ovens or Stewing Pans. A Sauce Pan is used for several purposes, such as cooking vegetables, heating soup, and making sauces.

Stockpot: A stock pot is a tall, relatively narrow, yet capacious, utensil with straight sides, usually at least six quarts in capacity. It is taller than it is wide and usually has two, securely attached, loop handles that are big enough to easily allow the use of potholders or oven mitts. It is used for simmering large amount of liquid, such as stock, soup and stews, but also works well for thick soups, chili and for boiling pasta.

Contd....

Double Boiler: A double boiler consists of two pans where one sits inside of the other. The bottom pan is slightly larger so the top pan can fit inside. The bottom pan contains hot water and the top pan holds the ingredients that are being cooked. This hot water bath, rather than through direct heat contact, ensures that the food in the inside (top) pan is gently cooked without scorching. It is useful while cooking delicate sauces that have a tendency to separate if cooked on direct heat and foods that burn easily on direct heat like chocolate.

Wok/ Stir-Fry Pan: A Stir-Fry Pan is a popular, all-purpose Asian pan also known as a Wok; it is distinguished by high, sloping sides, resembling a bowl. The traditional type wok has a rounded bottom and is used over a flamed heat source, such as a gas burner. Woks are now available with a rounded or flat bottom for use on an electric burner or a ceramic stovetop. The wok is most often used for stir-frying but can also be used for sautéing, steaming, deep-frying. The idea is to have a hot spot at the bottom of the wok, where the actual cooking takes place. The sides are used to rest the food that is cooking at slightly cooler temperatures.

Roasting Pan/ Roaster: A Roasting Pan is a rectangular shaped pan with low sides, which allows the heat from the oven to expose the entire surface of the meat to create a browned exterior. The pan is generally used with a rack to prevent the meat from sitting in its own juices and stewing instead of browning. They may have a lid to assist in the basting of the food and to keep it from drying out.

Popular Brands of cookware: Some of the widely known and popular brands of cookware are- Calphalon, KitchenAid, Cuisinart, Pinzon, Farberware, Anolon and Circulon.

It's happened to you more than once. You buy a romper for your child in the morning, and by dinner, he's outgrown it. Paying retail prices for garments with such a short useful life just doesn't make economic sense.

Follow these tips from experienced moms to stretch your budget for kids' clothing.

Stick with a Few Basic Colors. Your child's wardrobe functions on the same principle as your own: mixing and matching provides maximum mileage. Buy clothes that will coordinate with other clothes already in your child's closet.

Sears Comes Through. Though Sears has always been one of the top emporiums of affordable children's clothing, now it's even better. One mom relies heavily on the retailer's free program "Kid Advantage" that lets you replace torn or worn out clothing you buy from them as long as it's the same size and they can replace it with the same brand and similar price. "This was great for Michael since he tears up the knees in his jeans all the time," relates this satisfied mother. Sign up and be sure to keep your receipts.

Avoid Impulse Buys. Sure, it's adorable, but does your child need it? Again, the same shopping rules apply to kids' clothing as they do to yours. Ask yourself "how often will this get worn?"

Consider Flea Markets. Depending on the quality of the flea market, this can be a fabulous place for deals. Visit the ones near you to see what you can uncover.

Explore Children's Re-Sale Shops. Some mothers found that dressier apparel could often be found here and that it had clearly not been worn more than once or twice.

Buy Two. Once in a while, you'll find an item with the perfect price, quality, and look. Buy another in the next size so you can use it next season.

Check Out Thrift Shops. Thrift shops are great for basics that are usually perfectly wearable.

Graciously Accept Hand-Me-Downs. This is the overwhelmingly popular choice of all mothers. "Don't think of it as charity," says one mother of two, "consider it a necessity." Some mothers also practice this between families and friends, swapping unwanted or outgrown items, and labeling any items they might want back.

Look for Fundraisers. Charitable organizations like the Junior League and many religious groups frequently feature back-to-school fundraisers. You can often pick up used clothing in good shape and at affordable prices and support a good cause at the same time.