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Fashion and Fun after Fifty

Archive for December, 2015

Tipping During The Holidays

It’s that time of the year when you might be thinking about giving a tip to your service providers and like me, may be confused as to how much is appropriate or even if it’s necessary.

I normally leave a cash tip for the trash collectors but never know how many are on the truck; the mail carriers, but they change so often and sometimes don’t arrive until after dark; and the newspaper deliverer who throws my paper under the tree instead of in the driveway!

So this year, instead of cash, I am thinking about giving them Wawa gift cards which can be used for either gas or food – what do you think?

In yesterday’s paper there was an article by Jonnelle Marte of The Washington Post with some suggestions from the Emily Post Institute that may help with that decision.

 
 

Holiday Baking with Triscuit

I will be the first one to admit that as much as I like cooking, I am not much of a baker, however, I couldn’t pass up trying the recipe shown on the back of the box of the Limited Edition Triscuit Cranberry & Sage crackers.

Sweet Potato and Triscuits

Sweet Potatoes are a Superfood packed high in calcium, potassium, and vitamins A and C and during this time of year they are very inexpensive.  Sweet potatoes are often confused with yams, but yams are large, starchy roots grown in Africa and Asia. 

Sweet potatoes contain an enzyme that converts most of its starches into sugars as the potato matures. This sweetness continues to increase during storage and when they are cooked so when you add just a little brown sugar – POW – Sweet Goodness!

ingredients for sweet potato and triscuits

Ingredients

1 Sweet Potato

3 Triscuit Cranberry & Sage Crackers, coarsely crushed

1 Tbsp brown sugar

1-1/2 tsp. flour

1 tsp. butter, softened

Instructions:

Heat oven to 350 degrees

Poke several holes around the sweet potato then wrap in foil

Bake for 45 mins to an hour until tender – check with a fork

Allow potato to cool slightly, meanwhile combine the sugar, flour and crackers

Baked Sweet Potatoes with Crackers

Remove potato from the foil and place in a shallow pan and top with cracker mixture

Bake an additional 20 minutes or until heated thoroughly.

Hubby definitely liked them because he ate 2 by himself!

Okay, are you #TeamPumpkin or #TeamSweetPotato


Best Stores Coupons and Deals Available

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Lord and Taylor Coupons: 25% OR 30% Off

The Christmas rush is upon us, and it is time to find something for everyone on your shopping list! Save on perfect gifts for friends and family when you shop at Lord & Taylor during their current Friends & Family promotional event. During this event save 25% off with I’m in! on almost all full-priced items and 30% off clearance purchases. Find the perfect scarf, a beautiful necklace, stylish kicks and more, all at great prices, during this holiday sale at Lord & Taylor. Shop online at LordandTaylor.com today. This promo ends 12/17.

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Macys Coupons: 25% Off

Have you had an eye on a beautiful designer handbag, a stylish pair of boots from your favorite brand or a gorgeous necklace—all of which never seem to go on sale? Good news! Macy’s is currently offering 25% off their most popular brands that never go on sale during their Friends & Family event! Now through 12/10 save on those items that never get market down, and save on the perfect gift for a friend—or get a little something for yourself! Shop at Macys.com today, and save with promo code.

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Sierra Trading Post Coupons: 20% OR 25% Off

Christmas shopping for an outdoor lover, and not sure where to start? Let the experts at Sierra Trading post help you find the lowest prices on all of the most popular outdoor brands like Carhartt, Icebreaker, Columbia, Mountain Hardwear and more! Even better, save 20% off your purchase of $125 or more and 25% off your purchase of $200 or more with code, when you shop now through the new year! The savings don’t get much better than this. Head to Sierratradingpost.com today to find the perfect gift for the outdoor adventurer in your life.

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Body Shop Coupons: $25 Off $75

This holiday season, pamper your friends and loved ones with luxurious, nature-inspired body products from The Body Shop! Show everyone on your list that you care with moisturizing body butters, seasonal hand creams, festive gift sets and more, and save now through Christmas by taking $25 off your purchase of $75 or more with code! Shop conveniently online at Thebodyshop-usa.com today to check off everyone on your Christmas list, without even leaving your home. Hurry! Christmas is right around the corner, and these savings won’t last long.

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Home Shopping Network Coupons: $5 Off

Shopping for a beauty junkie this holiday season? Save on products and gift sets from the most popular cosmetic brands when you shop conveniently online at HSN.com! Find discounted Juicy Couture fragrances, holiday gift sets from Lancome, fun nail polish kits from Deborah Lippmann and more, when you shop conveniently online at HSN.com. Better yet, HSN.com is offering $5 off your next beauty purchase of $25 or more, now through 12/31! Save on the perfect gift for that beauty lover or a little something for yourself during this promo at HSN.com.

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Kay Jewelers Coupons: $100 Certificate

Unsure where to find the perfect gift for your significant other this Christmas? Look no further than Kay Jewelers! As one of the nation’s most popular fine jewelers, Kay offers much more than engagement and wedding rings. This jeweler also has a wide selection of necklaces, earrings, bracelets, watches and more. They can even personalize items with the engraving of your choice. This holiday season find find the best fine jewelry gifts and save when you shop at Kay, as you receive $100 in “Santa Certificates” for every $300 that you spend! Shop online at Kay.com today to see how much you can save.

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Office Depot Coupons: $10 Off $30

Don’t have fancy printing equipment, but want to print a holiday letter or card for friends and family? Check out the affordable and easy-to-use print services from Office Depot! This holiday season, Office Depot is offering print customers $10 off qualifying print services of $30 or more. Some exclusions do apply. Design and print fun, festive cards, letters, invites and more this Christmas and save, when you use the print services from Office Depot! Hurry! This promo ends 12/26.

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Pet 360 Coupons: $20 Off $150

Keeping up with all of your pet’s needs can be costly and time consuming! Let Pet360.com simplify your pet parenting process with their interactive website and store. In addition to dog and cat must-haves, Pet360 also has a pharmacy and a flea & tick center. They also have useful blogs with pet parenting pointers and advice. This holiday season be sure to check out their Sugar Plum Pet Shop for perfect gifts for your furry friend. Best of all, now through the end of the year, Pet360.com if offering $20 off your purchase of $150 or more! Take the guess work out of pet parenting today, and visit Pet360.com to save time and money.

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Shoebuy Coupons: 20% Off

If you are Christmas shopping for a shoe lover, find savings on everything that you need at ShoeBuy.com! This online shoe retailer has a wide selection of the top styles and brands including UGG, Converse, Minnetonka, Patagonia, Merrell, New Balance and more. When you shop this holiday season save 20% off your purchase site wide with a coupon from imin.com. Even better, save with FREE SHIPPING with code. Hurry to Shoebuy.com and find stylish footwear for everyone on your list!

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Children’s Place Coupons: 50-75% Off

Black Friday may be over at most stores, but The Children’s Place is extending their amazing online savings through the entire holiday season! When you shop online at ChildrensPlace.com, save 40% to 70% off everything that you need for the little ones in your life. Better yet, this popular children’s apparel vendor is offering FREE SHIPPING with no exclusions! Hurry and find the perfect Christmas gifts for you children, grandchildren, nieces, nephews while these amazing savings last!

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Fannie May Promo: 15% Off

Show everyone on your Christmas list that you care this season with delicious fine chocolates from Fannie May! This popular online chocolatier has a beautiful selection of gourmet chocolate assortments and sets—with customizable options available as well. Now through Christmas, save on every purchase you make at FannieMay.com by taking 15% off your order! Who doesn’t love chocolate? Find something everyone will love this season and save at FannieMay.com.

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HP Promo Code: 30% Off

Treat yourself or someone you love to a new computer this holiday season during the current savings event at HP.com. Now through 12/15, Hp.com is offering 30% off instantly with your purchase of their configurable PCs valued at $1,199 or more. Some exclusions do apply to this sale. Upgrade your tech game today with this wonderful savings from this popular computer and technology company. Hurry and shop while these major savings last. This promotional event ends 12/15.

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Wilsons Promos: Free Shipping $10 Off

This holiday season, find perfect, timeless, quality gifts for everyone on your list at Wilsons Leather. It may be a gorgeous leather handbag, a classic jacket, or a business case for a new professional. Whatever you are looking for—Wilsons has it! To get into the holiday spirit, Wilsons is also offering $10 off orders as well as free shipping for all of December, with a $100 minimum purchase! Shop in stores or conveniently online at WilsonsLeather.com today to save on something for everyone on your list during this savings event.

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Torrid Coupon: $75 Off $225

Save on stylish, plus-size clothing this holiday season with Torrid! This popular apparel brand, featuring the hottest trends in sizes 12 through 28, has perfect Christmas-party styles, that will work perfectly for every event and occasion. Check out Torrid.com this December, and save $75 off your purchase of $225 or more. Stock up on everything you need to see you through the holiday season in style during this amazing promotional event—only at Torrid.com!

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Puritans Pride Coupons: Buy 1 Get 2 Free

Stay healthy this holiday season and start the New Year off on the right foot with healthy-living essentials from Puritan’s Pride! This popular supplement company has a convenient online store at Puritan.com, and is offering Buy One Get Two Free along with FREE SHIPPING now through January 4th! No code is necessary to redeem these amazing savings. Make this Christmas and New Year your healthiest yet, and stock up on vitamins and supplement from Puritan.com during this amazing sale!

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FootLocker.com Coupon Code: 15% Off $70

Shopping for a child, grandchild, niece or nephew that has their heart set on a new set of kicks this holiday season? If so, save on all of the most popular footwear brands including Nike, Adidas, Timberland, Puma, Asics, Converse and more, when you shop at Kid’s Foot Locker! When you shop conveniently online this December at Kidsfootlocker.com save 15% off your purchase of $70 or more. Make Christmas dreams come true and save, when you shop at Kidsfootlocker.com now through 12/31/15. Some exclusions do apply.

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Dress Barn Promo: $20 Off $90 + FS

Do you have upcoming Christmas parties and holiday dinners, but nothing to wear? Check out the Dress Barn today! This popular women’s retailer has festive and fun party dresses, stylish sweaters, dressy pants and more—all in sizes 4 through 24! This December, save on Dress Barn’s already low prices by shopping conveniently online at DressBarn.com. When you shop online, you will save $20 off your order of $90 or more and receive FREE SHIPPING with code! Find the perfect holiday attire and save when you shop at DressBarn.com during this promotional event!

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Calendars.com Promos: $5 Off $25

Christmas is almost here, and 2016 is just around the corner! What better gift to give than a calendar or planner from Calendars.com? This popular calendar retailer has it all—with themes ranging from cats to humor to flowers to Star Wars. Save on all of your Calendars.com purchase this December by taking $5 off your purchase of $25 or more with code! Find the perfect gifts for everyone, as well as a 2016 calendar for yourself during this promotional event. Hurry! The New Year is quickly approaching, and this offer ends 12/31!

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WorldMarket Promo Code: 10% Off

Decorate your home beautifully and find perfect gifts this season with festive holiday items from World Market! Shop conveniently online at WorldMarket.com to view the retailers festive lighting, classic nutcrackers, Christmas candles, fun stocking stuffers and more! Make your home a winter wonderland and save this December by taking 10% off every purchase of 10% or more! Hurry to WorldMarket.com today! Christmas is almost here, and this promo won’t last long! Offer ends 12/19.

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FragranceX Coupon: 10% Off

One of the most popular and timeless Christmas gifts is the gift of perfume! Shop conveniently online at FragranceX.com to save on all of the most popular fragrance brands for Men and Women, with top-selling brands including Calvin Klein, Hugo Boss, Juicy Couture, Ralph Lauren, Gucci and more! All of FragranceX.com’s products are guaranteed to be 100% authentic. Save on the perfect gift from FragranceX.com when you shop this December by taking 10% off your entire order with code. Shop and save today!

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Rocksbox Subscription

Hello friends, I just opened my 2nd Rocksbox Jewelry Subscription Box and I’ll have to admit that I like the pieces in this one much better than in the first.  Check out the video below to see each piece up-close and personal and you’ll know why. 

In this month’s Rocksbox, my stylist Eleanor, chose the following pieces:  Rocksbox Subscription Box

Perry Street

Abby Necklace in Blue

Perry Street Necklace

 Margaret Elizabeth

Teardrop Bangle in Blue Chalcedony

Margaret Elizabeth Bangle

 Kendra Scott

Lee Earrings in Iridescent Drusy

Kendra Scott earrings

 

I am not sure which piece from this box that I’ll be purchasing, but it definitely will be one…two…or maybe all three!  Don’t forget to check out the website www.rocksbox.com/invite and subscribe to this unlimited jewelry rental program so you too can choose pieces from top designers including Kendra Scott, Gorjana and more. 

“If Loving Jewelry is a Crime, We Plead Guilty”

Each personalized box is curated by a team of stylists and you can leave feedback and “wish list” for specific pieces.  Special discounts and member rewards towards purchases, not to mention FREE prepaid shipping both ways. 

So after watching the video go sign up so that you’ll have a few designer pieces for those upcoming special events beginning with next month’s New Year’s Eve festivities.

Which piece did you like the best from this month’s box?


Share The Holiday with Crock Pot Peanut Clusters

This shop has been compensated by Collective Bias. Inc. and its advertiser.  All opinions are mine alone. 

#ShareTheHoliday #CollectiveBias

During this time of the year when the boys were younger we would spend hours in the kitchen baking cookies, brownies and Gingerbread Houses but our all time favorite sweet treat was Crock Pot Peanut Clusters

Now that Malik, our youngest is away at college and Tayair is no longer interested I don’t spend a lot of time in the kitchen baking.  However, this year, I will be making several batches of Slow Cooked Peanut Clusters but not just for hubby and myself but for some very special nurses at the Helen Graham Cancer Center.  They have made these past few months a little bit more bearable during my husband’s chemo treatments.

Crock Pot Peanut Clusters make great gifts

Crock Pot Peanut Clusters make great gifts

While shopping at Walmart  last weekend for the ingredients I also picked up a few packs of Rubbermaid TakeAlongs which are perfectly sized containers for gifting these sweet treats.  The Mini Deep Square reusable container can hold 4-5 Peanut Clusters and the Quik Clik Seal™ lid is soft yet grips tightly so I can transport the clusters securely and the nurses can store and stack them neatly in the refrigerator at work or at home.

Rubbermaid TakeAlongs in Walmart

Rubbermaid TakeAlongs in Walmart

 

Ingredients – Yields 2 dozen

16 oz  Jar Unsalted Dry Roasted Peanuts

11.5 oz package of Milk Chocolate Chips

Cooking Spray

Crock Pot Peanut Cluster ingredients

Peanuts and Chocolate Chips

Instructions

Crock Pot Peanut Clusters are an easy breezy treat for anytime of the year but because it takes less than 2 hours to make you can get some holiday decorations done while they slow cook.

For easier cleanup, first coat the inside of the Crock Pot with a Cooking Spray.

easy cleanup with cooking spray

For easy cleanup use a Cooking Spray

Pour in half the jar of peanuts followed by half a bag of chocolate chips. 

Pour in the remaining peanuts and chips, cover and cook on low for 1 hour. 

Pour in peanuts and chocolate chips

Combine Chocolate and Peanuts

Once the chocolate has softened, stir it thoroughly to mix in the peanuts.

mix peanuts and chocolate

Stir to coat peanuts with chocolate

Use a spoon or an Ice Cream scoop to dollop out medium size clusters onto a non-stick baking sheet or a platter covered with Parchment Paper. 

use non-stick pan

Scoop clusters onto non-stick pan

Refrigerate for one hour to harden.

put in refrigerator for an hour

Refrigerate clusters for an hour

If you will be sharing tasty treats with your family, friends, co-workers or just “paying it forward” to a total stranger, make sure to stock up on the Holiday Rubbermaid TakeAlongs containers. They come in a variety of festive holiday colors and prints including Red and Green, oh, and by the way, there is a $1 Off Ibotta Rebate when you buy 2 Rubbermaid TakeAlongs products, exclusive to Walmart shoppers.

Crock Pot Peanut Clusters

These Crock Pot Peanut Clusters are all mine!

The tasty treats in the 17 oz Mini Deep Squares will be given to our special friends at the Helen Graham Center, and hubby’s are in the Rectangle but these in the Rubbermaid TakeAlongs 23 oz Square are all mine!

 

Do you have a favorite Holiday Sweet Treat that you like to share?

Click Here for $1 Off Ibotta Rebate

Click Here for $1 Off Ibotta Rebate


Refrigerator Raider and Marie Callender’s® Dessert Pies

Disclosure:  This shop has been compensated by Collective Bias, Inc., and its advertiser.  All opinions are mine alone. 

#ShareTheJoyOfPie #CollectiveBias

 

If you have 1 of these….

College student home for the holidays

Then you need 2 of these…

my son loves dessert pies

And maybe a few of these….

use mason jars to serve pie

To make sure that everyone gets a piece of Marie Callender’s® Dessert Pies topped with Extra Creamy Reddi-Wip® after dinner.

Pies are great for holiday desserts

Our youngest son was home from college during the Thanksgiving break and you would have thought that a full meal plan wasn’t included in his tuition (it is), or that he hadn’t eaten since leaving in August (he doesn’t look like he’s skipped any meals!) 

pies for dessert

Almost every night hours after dinner was done and the kitchen was cleaned, I would hear him downstairs rummaging through the frig. Opening up the freezer door and looking through the pantry trying to find something else to eat…oh and it would be taken into his room and not eaten at the table…you know that “dorm life“.

son searching for food

Anywho, I know how much he loves desserts, so I wanted to make sure that he could have all that he wanted.  However, I didn’t want to find an empty pie tin in his room, on the dresser or under the bed, leaving us with no dessert the next day so I came up with a creative way to serve it.

Marie Callender's Dessert in Mason Jar

I went shopping at Walmart before the holiday to stock up on a few Marie Callender’s® Dessert Pies and a can of Extra Creamy  Reddi-Wip®.  Since both of my sons love Marie Callender’s® Dessert Pies, I purchased two, a Dutch Apple and a Cherry Crunch to satisfy them both. Marie Callender's Dessert Pies and Reddi-wip topping

I usually bake these dessert pies hours before cooking dinner because it allows them time to sit and cool and to be at the right temperature to keep the Reddi-Wip® from melting too quickly.  

Oh and by the way, before baking the pies, wrap a little piece of Aluminum Foil around the edges of the crust to keep it from burning because it cooks faster than the pie’s filling.  

wrap edges of pie with foil

I thought this would be a creative way in which to serve the Marie Callender’s® Dessert Pies to ensure that everyone could have a piece of each flavor.  

Allow the pies to cool then scoop out a little from each alternating between the Dutch Apple and Cherry Crunch, and place it into a Mason Jar and top with a generous amount of Reddi-Wip®.

Marie Callender's Dessert Pies Promo 052

So when “My Refrigerator Raider” made a midnight run to the kitchen, he wasn’t tempted to take the entire pie to his room and we all had a piece for dessert for the next few days. 

Refrigerator Raider and his pie

 

Do you have a “refrigerator raider” in your home?


Thanksgiving Weekend Wrap Up – Movie with my Men

Thanksgiving Weekend Wrap Up

This year our Turkey Day was low key, but that’s exactly how we needed it to be. Hubby has two more Chemo treatments, the last one will be 12/23 and we are looking forward to entering 2016 Cancer FREE!

colon cancer

Malik arrived home from Bowie State University on Saturday evening. Thankfully, his aunt drove him home so I didn’t need to make that trip down and it was wonderful to see him when I got home. I couldn’t believe how much my ‘baby’ had grown since August…just look at those “guns”

muscle man arms

no words…

It was a leisurely Turkey Day which started by watching the Macy’s Day Parade, cooking the Jennie-O Turkey which was delicious and then relaxing with Tayair while he and his father watched football and the Eagles lost again!

Jennie O Turkey Avi

This is a great turkey!

Philadelphia Eagles lost again

Philadelphia Eagles lost again!

I am not one who ventures out on Black Friday, so no bargains were had for us, instead we all watched movies together in the family room and munched on Thanksgiving dinner leftovers.  It was a lazy two days!

Lazy day

selfie with the sons

Saturday the mini men and I headed to a matinee at Westown Movies to see “Creed” and it was definitely a good movie. I loved the storyline, the actors but best of all, hanging with my sons.  

The last movie we saw together was Polar Express and the last time I was at Westown was to cover their Grand Opening, remember this post?

Our neighbor, Kyla works at the theatre and she was glad to see the guys as they are now all at different colleges.

at Westown Movie Theatre

they all grew up together

Creed at Westown Movies

Creed at Westown Movies in Middletown

After the movie we went to Ruby Tuesday for dinner and had a great meal, the Apple Cider Spritzer was very refreshing, I actually drank two glasses!

I ordered the Asiago Sirloin and Fried Shrimp, something that I haven’t done in over a decade. I don’t normally eat red meat and never fried shrimp, but it was the holiday so I splurged a little and it was worth it!  

Tayair’s meal was plated better than mine so I took a picture of his.

Dinner at Ruby Tuesdays

We popped over to Walmart, Marshalls and Kohl’s before heading home for the evening. Walmart had several of their Statement necklaces on clearance for $2.00 and a few Frank’s Red Hot sauce gift ideas on display as well as over at Kohl’s.

Statement Necklaces at Walmart

Frank's RedHot Gift Set

Frank’s RedHot Gift Set

Frank's RedHot Recipe Book

Frank’s RedHot Recipe Book

It was definitely a great Saturday night to be out and about hanging with my mini men.

What I wore on the weekend

What I wore to the movies

It’s tough getting both of them together to pose with me, but hubby and I were able to capture a few shots before I drove Malik back to school and the very last one he “allowed” me to take was when I dropped him off on campus.  

soda and a smile

a soda and a smile made my day

hard to get a group shot

me and my mini men

the loves of my life

my sons, the loves of my life

Bowie State University

see ya later son!

Well that was my Weekend Wrap Up, how was your Thanksgiving Holiday?


Find Best Stores Coupons and Deals

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Hotels.com Coupons: UP to $100 Cash Back

As the weather cools off and the holidays approach, it is time to plan a winter get-a-way! Save on every detail of you trip when you shop conveniently online at Hotels.com—offering discounted accommodations at over 250,000 hotels in over 60 countries. When you shop with Hotels.com this December, you will save on their already low prices by earning up to a $100 cash back rebate on all hotel reservations with code. Give the gift of travel, or book something special for yourself this holiday season. Offer ends 12/31.

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Home Shopping Network Coupon: $5 Off

Pamper yourself this holiday season with your favorite brands of make up and skin care products—all discounted at the Home Shopping Network! Shop conveniently online this December at HSN.com to save on your favorite beauty brands, like Benefit, BECCA, Korres, Elizabeth Arden, Dermablend and more. Now through 12/31, HSN.com is offering a promo of $5 off your beauty purchase of $25 or more! Stock up on all of your favorite brands and products today at HSN.com, while savings last.

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Kay Jewelers Coupon Code: Free 2-Day Shipping

No need to stress over the perfect, last-minute gift this holiday season. Kay Jewelers has you covered with convenient FREE two-day shipping when you shop hassle-free online at Kay.com. Find the perfect fine jewelry for that special someone in your life, and get it in time for Christmas with this wonderful holiday promo! Looking for earrings, an engraved bracelet, a delicate necklace or an engagement ring? Kay.com has it all! Shop conveniently online now through 12/22 to receive this free shipping promotion—just in time for the holidays!

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Lamps Plus Promo: $10 Off $150

Playing the hostess this holiday season? Fear not! Lamps Plus has everything that you need to get your home ready for out-of-town guests and holiday entertaining—all at discounted prices! Shop this home goods retailer conveniently online at LampsPlus.com to find a wide selection of lighting, décor, furniture and more! Even better, save with $10 off your purchase of $150 or more when you shop now through the end of the year! Impress your guests with new home décor from LampsPlus.com this season!

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Life is Good Promos: 25% Off

On the hunt for the perfect gift? Find fun, optimistic gifts for everyone in your life when you shop popular Life is Good products conveniently online at Lifeisgood.com! Life is Good has a wide selection of gift options including t-shirts, accessories, coffee mugs, pet apparel and more—all with positive logos and phrases! Now through 12/31 save on all Life is Good sale items by taking an additional 25% off their already reduced prices with code! Save time and money finding a gift that is certain to delight your friends and family when you shop conveniently online at Lifeisgood.com this holiday season!

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Loft Promo Code: Free Shipping

In a winter style rut? Find cozy, stylish and affordable apparel and accessories when you shop at Loft! In addition to retail stores throughout the nation, Loft also offers convenient online retail at Loft.com. When you shop conveniently online at Loft.com this holiday season save time and money with complimentary shipping on your purchase of $125 or more! Stock up on warm sweaters, chic cocktail dresses, essential denim and fun accessories without even leaving your home when you shop hassle-free at Loft.com! Get out of your style rut and find the perfect winter apparel today at Loft.

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Peapod Coupons: $20 Off $100

Trying to eat healthier, but don’t have time to get to the store? Let Peapod.com simplify the grocery shopping process, by letting you shop online and shipping your groceries directly to your doorstep, or to a convenient pick-up location. Shop online at Peapod.com to see how this revolutionary grocery service can change the way you eat. Even better, save $20 off your first Peapod order of $100 or more and receive 60 days of free pick ups or deliveries when you shop now through the end of the year!

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Petco Coupon: $7 Off $70

Get your furry friend into the holiday spirit during Petco’s Joy, Love, Pets celebration! Find festive costumes, seasonal treats, Christmas and Hanukkah toys and more fun items for your pet, when you shop in stores or conveniently online at Petco.com this December. Even better, save on all of your pet shopping at Petco.com this season by taking $7 off your online purchase of $70 or more! Find the perfect gift for your cat or dog and save this December at Petco.com.

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Advance Auto Parts Coupon Code: 30% Off

No time and money to spend on car repairs? Save time and money on your next auto repair by shopping conveniently online at AdvanceAutoParts.com with imin.com! When you shop online at Advance Auto you can ship your purchase directly to your doorstep, or select to pick up within 30 minutes at a variety of convenient retail locations. You will also save money when you shop online at AdvanceAutoParts.com this December with 30% off your order of $50 or more with code! Simplify your auto-accessory shopping with the help of Advance Auto today.

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Amazon Promo: Only $15.99

Get into the holiday spirit this December with the Holiday Romance Collection—a 10-movie DVD set, perfect for the Christmas mood. This three-disc set is currently discounted at popular online retailer, Amazon.com for only $15.99. With movies including A Christmas Kiss, An Old Fashioned Christmas, Three Wise Women and Moonlight & Mistletoe, you will have an endless amount of fun, festive holiday movies to view this season. Hurry to Amazon.com to purchase this holiday movie set today—while supplies last!

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Saks Fifth Promos: 10% Off

Find all of your favorite designer brands in one place when you shop with Saks Fifth Avenue this holiday season. Shop in retail stores throughout the nation or conveniently online at Saksfifthavenue.com. When you shop online at Saks, you will save big when you sign up for the retailer email list—by taking 10% off your first order! Sign up today to be notified of upcoming deals, promos and specials and to save on your first purchase from this iconic retailer. Shop onine at Saksfifthavenue.com and save today.

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Bealls Promo Code: 20% Off

Want to complete all of your holiday shopping in one place? Bealls is your one-stop-shop for everyone on your list! With a wide selection of home goods, apparel, footwear, accessories and more you will find perfect gifts for friends and family at Bealls. Save on your favorite home brands like Keurig, Tervis, Kitchen Aid, Cuisinart and popular clothing brands like Calvin Klein, Columbia, Dockers and more! When you shop online at BeallsFlorida.com now through 12/12, save with 20% off your entire purchase and FREE SHIPPING on your order of $60 or more. Finish you holiday shopping today with Bealls.

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Oneida Coupon: 20% Off

Are you hosting out-of-town guests of entertaining this holiday season? Spruce up your kitchen and dining areas and save when you shop at popular retailer, Oneida. This December, Oneida is offering 20% off your entire purchase when you shop online at Oneida.com with promo code. Shop and save on dinnerware, serve ware, flatware, food prep, storage containers and more during this promotional event at Oneida.com. Get your home ready for holiday entertaining today with Oneida. This promo ends 12/7/15.

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Starbucks Coupon Code: 10% Off

If you are on the hunt for the perfect holiday gift for friends or family this season, look no further than Starbucks! What could be better than the gift of coffee? Shop conveniently online at Store.Starbucks.com this December and find coffee, tea, equipment, tumblers, mugs and more. Even better, if you are a new customer, save 10% off all orders now through the end of the year when you shop at Starbucks. Find a gift for everyone on your list without even leaving your home when you shop online at Store.Starbucks.com.

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M and M Coupons: 15% Off $100

Add a fun and festive touch to your holidays this year with personalized M&M’s! What could make a better gift than a customized bag of M&M’s for a friend of family member? And what better way to make your holiday party extra special than with a special party favor? Shop conveniently online at mymms.com today to see all of the ways you can customize these ever-popular treats. Even better, save 15% off on every purchase you make of $100 or more at mymms.com. Shop and save today. This promo ends on 12/31.

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JCPenney Promos: 15% Off

Trying to save time and money on your Christmas shopping this year? Shop hassle-free online at JCPenny.com with the help of I’m in! Coupons to save on gifts for everyone in your life this season. This December, save on JC Penny’s wide selection of home goods, apparel, accessories, jewelry, electronics and more by taking 15% off your entire online purchase! Find your family’s favorite brands like Nike, Levis, Columbia, Izod, Carter’s, OshKosh and more when you shop online at JCPenny.com during this promotional event.

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Elizabeth Arden Coupon: 15% Off

If you are looking for a luxury gift for yourself or someone else, Elizabeth Arden is the place to shop this holiday season. In addition to the ever-popular brand’s makeup and skincare products, they also have a beautiful collection of curated gift sets for the Christmas gifting season. Shop these festive sets conveniently online at ElizabethArden.com and save 15% off your first purchase! Hurry and shop today. This promo will last now through the end of the year.

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Popcorn Factory Coupons: Save 15%

This holiday season give the delicious gift of popcorn to everyone on your list with the Popcorn Factory! Shop this gourmet retailer’s delightful selection of popcorn flavors and products conveniently online at Thepopcornfactory.com and save with 15% off their beautifully-curated gift sets—perfect for Hanukah, Christmas and other celebrations this season! Hurry to Popcornfactory.com today to shop hassle-free for perfect gifts for family and friends, and save during this promotional event. This amazing promotional event ends on 1/31/16.

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DinoDirect Coupon Code: 10% Off

Looking for a bargain this holiday season? Dino Direct is your online destination for the best-priced products in a variety of shopping categories including clothing, technology, sporting goods and more! This international marketplace, serving over 200 countries worldwide has something for just about everyone. Check out what all the buzz is about by shopping conveniently online at DinoDirect.com today, and receive 10% off your purchase with coupon code! Hurry and save on everything you need for holiday gifting today. This promotional savings event is valid now through the end of the year.

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Lensmart Promo: 25% Off

If you want to find your contact lenses and eye care supplies conveniently online at low prices, Lensmart.com is the place for you. This online marketplace carries all of the most popular contact brands like Acuvue, Biofinity, Proclear, Soflens and more. Still not sure about purchasing contacts online? Check out Lensmart.com today and save 25% off your first purchase! This promo is valid for new customers now through the end of the year. Save time and money when you purchase all of your eye care essential in one place at Lensmart.com.

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2016 Kia Optima LX Turbo Review

Disclosure Statement: I was provided with a Kia Optima LX Turbo for a week to review, however, all opinions expressed in this post are 100% my own. #Kia #DriveKia #DriveShopUSA

Two weeks ago a 2016 Kia Optima LX Turbo was driven into my driveway and needless to say, I was over-the-top excited to have her a as loaner for the entire week. 

Thank you @Kia #DriveShopUSA and you can plainly see, we definitely belonged together as she complimented my outfit quite nicely! #kuteinaKia Kia in the driveway Kia is Kute

Later in the day hubby and I sat inside listening to jazz on the Sirius Satellite Radio while checking out the bells and whistles, some of which included:

Kia Bells and Whistles 2

Kia Optima LX

Kia back seat view

Then together, we took a slow, leisurely drive around the neighborhood before the sun set for the evening.

Wednesday, I left her in the driveway as I also did on Thursday because of the drenching rains.  Having driven a small compact car (Bloggy Buggy) for the past 2 years, I was a bit apprehensive about driving this larger, more luxurious vehicle to work.  I work in West Chester, PA, which is a 100 mile, 3 hour daily round trip commute. 

Bloggy Buggy

The 32 MPG highway gas mileage for the Kia Optima LX Turbo is awesome, therefore, I doubt that I would have needed to stop and get gas to fuel up had I driven it to work those two days.

Kia is great on gas

32 MPG

Friday was a vacation day from work but not a day off without a purpose as I attended a Friday Fuel Up, sponsored by Troy Farmer, www.tfarmerforeva.com  This wonderful Women in Business event was enlightening and definitely rewarding as a new business owner.

Oh, I forget to tell you that I had officially launched my own business, A.Blake Enterprises, Social Media Management on the 13th of November.  I will bring you up to speed with all the details but in the meantime, check out the website www.ABlakeEnterprises.com for more information.

Friday Fuel Up - Women in Business

After the empowerment session, driving home on a bright and sunny mid-afternoon, I took my time, leaned to the side and cruised along listening to Jazz playing on the Watercolors station from the Sirius Station.  All the while thinking “I could get used to driving a car like this!”  I pulled into the driveway, picked up hubby then we headed to the Dutch Country Farmers Market to get a late lunch.

Kia at Farmers Market

Not wanting to buy too much because it was the week before Thanksgiving, we just bought some wings and pasta salad for the weekend and a few pounds of Oxtails for next week’s Slow Cooked Oxtail Stew – stay tuned for that recipe.

Spacious trunk in the Kia Optima LX

The Smart and spacious trunk of the Kia Optima LX makes it easy to load packages when your hands are full.

 

The MSRP on this fully loaded Kia Optima LX is $27,415 and these are just a few of the many standard features:

USB/Auxiliary  Input Jack and 12 Volt Outlet

Bluetooth Wireless Technology

60/40 split-folding rear seats which are perfect for travel back and forth to college or a quick trip to your local Home Improvement Store

Push Button Start / Smart Key / Smart Trunk

The additional LX Technology Package Features on this vehicle included:

Dual Zone Auto Climate Controls with Rear Vents

Navigation System with 8” Display

Memory Driver’s Seat and Mirror Position

Blind Spot Detection System

Rear Cross Traffic Alert

Rear Parking Assist System

Auto-dimming Rear view mirror

There are many safety features in the LX Technology Package which are definitely of benefit to me because I spend a lot of time on the road.  With so many distracted drivers and others who need a remedial Driver’s Ed course, having these options are a definite plus especially the “Blind Spot Detection System”.

 

Saturday, hubby was feeling well enough to take another “Road Trip to Retirement” which was a regular feature on my YouTube channel before he began his chemo treatments.  Check out the latest video of this visit to the Village of Eastridge, a 55+ Community in Smyrna.

Roadtrip to Retirement in Smyrna

I had an evening appointment with a Venetia Thompson, a small business owner in New Castle, who is featured this year on my blog in honor of  #ShopSmall Saturday.  When I got home there was another surprise…our youngest son was home from college.  

He had come home early for the Thanksgiving break with a big bag of laundry, fortunately he has been washing his own clothes since the age of 10 so it was not my responsibility to handle!

college student and his laundry

The Kia adventure continued into Sunday when my oldest son and I went shopping and then created this mini video, once again touting a few of the cool features of the Optima LX.

On Monday hubby had a chemo treatment, so the Kia spent the day parked at the Helen Graham Cancer Center, then Tuesday morning, I had to say, “See Ya” to the Kia.

Great week with a Kia Optima Turbo

It was definitely a fun filled, wonderful way to spend the week with a Kia.  Now it’s your turn to tell me what you would do if you had a week with a Kia Optima LX Turbo…where would you go, leave a comment below.