July 2009 - Especially for Women

Taking a Staycation

Instead of spending a bundle on an expensive vacation, many people are kicking back at home this summer and taking a staycation. A staycation is much more economical than a traditional vacation and it can be much more relaxing too.

Oftentimes when I go on vacation, I end up more tired when I return than when I left. If you are in the same boat, skip the busy airports and crowded tourist attractions this summer. Enjoy some "me time" at home instead.

If you want to get a little spa treatment without the expense, head to your local Origins location for a free mini facial. If there's not an Origins near you, make a homemade facial yourself and turn your bathroom into your own personal oasis. Facial treatments are easy to make in your own kitchen. Just mix oatmeal with honey or smash an avocado and add a little plain yogurt. Apply it all over your face and neck, then lay back and relax for 20 minutes before rinsing.

Just like on vacation, enjoy some indulgences on your staycation. Order in tons of Chinese food and whip up some homemade ice cream with this Hamilton Beach Ice Cream Maker -- it's only $20.

If you love to read, you can get a free paperback novel from Random House. Turn off your phone, don't answer the door and curl up on your coach with a good book all afternoon.

If you want to get out of your house, a staycation is a great time to get to know your own city a little better. Head to your local museum or take a walking tour of the historical sites in your neighborhood. Put on a pair of walking shorts and some comfy shoes. Nordstrom has these Privo flats on sale for 33% off. They are built for comfort using Flexfit and Soleassage technology to massage your feet all-day long.

If you are going to be out in the sun, stay protected with a wide-brimmed hat and always wear sunscreen. At Drugstore.com, you can save 40% on Jason Natural suncare. This chemical-free sunblock contains SPF 30 and is a healthy choice.

The most important thing about a staycation is to enjoy yourself. Whether you want to experience a hometown adventure or just veg out on your couch all day, do whatever makes you happy.

Relax and have fun!

Until next time!

-Kori

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Hot Deals on Fall Fashion Trends

We are all enjoying fun in the summer sun but fall will be here before you know it. And with the cooler weather comes new fashion trends. Most of us can't afford to overhaul our wardrobe completely from season to season. So instead, choose a few select pieces to update your look. Today, let's check out some hot deals on fall fashion trends.

Exotic Skins
Skin is in! Look for snake- and croc-embossed shoes and handbags. Right now you can get this python clutch from Banana Republic for 70% off! Originally $198.00, it's now just $58.97.

Also check out this croc-embossed bowler bag from Nordstrom. Regularly priced at $248, it's on sale now during the Nordstrom Anniversary Sale for $159.90. You can get this bag in your choice of four fabulous colors. My favorite is the olive green.

Sumptuous Suede
Suede is always in style every fall but this season we'll see it more than ever. Look for suede ballet flats and peep-toe pumps, as well as a variety of suede handbags. Save big on these Steve Madden suede flats at Macy's. Originally $79, right now they are just $19.99. That's right ... under twenty bucks!

Also check out these suede ankle boots at Piperlime. Regularly priced at $298, they can be yours for $89.97. Sizes are limited so grab these quick!

Anything Purple
We all love blacks, browns and greys during the fall. But this season, dive into the purple trend. From pretty lilacs to deep plums, you will find fashions and accessories in every shade of purple imaginable. Check out this purple berry cardigan at Macy's. It's marked down from $59.00 to just $29.99.

Also don't miss this glamorous purple leather Cole Haan hobo handbag from Nordstrom. Originally $298, it's now priced just under $200. You'll also love this purple Michael Kors tote on discount for $298.90 (regularly $448).

Other hot fall fashion trends:

• Over-the-knee boots
• Black and white geometric prints
• Knee-length pencil skirts
• Textured vests
• Anything cashmere!

Enjoy your summer, but remember fall is right around the corner!

-Kori

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Get Fit Deals: Sneakers, Tank Tops and More

Have you set a goal of getting into shape? New Year's isn't the only good time for resolution. Make a deal with yourself to get fit and healthy this summer. To help you along the way, you need some fitness gear and other items to make getting in shape much easier. Today, we look at these fabulous fitness deals.

You can't get into shape by dieting alone. You need to get out there and get moving. So laces up your sneakers and let's go! If you are looking for a great pair of running shoes, turn to Asics. Right now, you can get these fabulous Asics GT-2130 running shoes for 37% off at Finish Line. Originally priced at $94.99, these shoes are just $59.97. Asics shoes are known for their performance, durability and support. These sneakers will help you get back into your fitness routine.

For another great deal on sneakers, head to Macy's, where you will find these Puma Cabar sneakers marked down from $70.00 to just $48.99. These classic sneakers are simple yet stylish. Plus they are perfect for working out at the gym, yoga classes, walking or any outdoor activities.

One of the best ways to get into shape in the summer is swimming. It's fun, low-impact and gives your body an overall workout. Also at Macy's, you can find an assortment of one-piece swimsuits. This Kenneth Cole maillot is now just $61.10 (originally $94.00). It features adjustable straps, a shelf bra and tummy control panel for great fit and style. This swimsuit is available in your choice of three colors.

Stock up on tank tops. They are perfect for working out. They'll go with your favorite shorts or yoga pants. At Gap, they sell super soft tanks in pretty colors and fun stripes. Right now, you can find an assortment of tank tops on discount. Originally priced at $19.50, these cool, comfortable tops are now just $6.99. What a deal! They also have hoodies ($19.99) and lounge pants ($23.99) on sale. Sizes are limited -- so hop on this deal quickly!

If you are considering signing up for a gym membership, look around at your local fitness centers for a free trial. Right now, Lifetime Fitness is offering a free 7-day trial pass that will allow you to get a look at their equipment and atmosphere. You have to make sure that you love the gym before you sign up. Because, believe me, you aren't going to go if you don't like the place. You can also get a free week of exercises in this special offer from Pampers. This freebie offer from Stroller Strides and Pampers is designed especially for moms with babies. Print the coupon and then find a location near you.

If you haven't worked out in a while, don't stress. Start out slowly with 20-30 minutes of activity a few times a week. Add a little more time and intensity to your workouts each week. You'll hit your fitness goals in no time!

Until next time...

--Kori

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Simple Summer Entertaining

The weather is perfect for backyard barbecues and summer entertaining. If you are having guests over for good food and good times, you can create an outdoor living space that is as comfortable and appealing as your living room. By choosing the right patio furniture and other accessories, you will be the hostess with the mostess this summer. Let's take a look at some hot deals and cool bargains to make your summer entertaining easy.

Table for two? Pick up this Amelia Floral Mosaic Table from Cost Plus World Market for $70 off. Originally priced at an affordable $129.99, you can get it now for just $59.99. This mosaic table will remind you of an outdoor cafe in Paris. All you need is the croissants and the sexy Frenchman.

If you need a little more room, check out this Libra 7-piece dining set from Target. This set includes four chairs, the dining table, umbrella and umbrella base. You can get this outdoor furniture on sale for $100 off right now at Target. It's marked down from $399.99 to just $299.99.

For a little Southern comfort, this Briarwood swing fits the bill. Available at JC Penney, this porch swing is perfect for sipping ice tea while watching the kids play in the pool. Regularly price is $600, but for a limited time, you can get this swing for just $199.99. That's right -- 75% off!

Target also has an amazing deal on this Monarch charcoal grill. The everyday price is just $129.99, but currently you save 15% when you spend $125 or more in furniture and lawn and garden items. This fab discount is only available online and ends July 25, 2009.

Dress up your table in casual, outdoor style with plastic dishware and colorful table cloths. Right now, you can save 30-60% on dishware, glasses, table linens and more at Macy's. Check out the Martha Stewart "Maidenhair Fern" collection for understated yet elegant style. Also don't miss these Lenox Textures placemats, which are marked down from $9.00 each to just $3.97! What a bargain.

So, what are you wearing to your backyard party? Slip into a comfortable print dress from Calvin Klein. Currently you can save up to 50% on dresses, swimwear and so much more. Remember casual and comfortable doesn't have to mean sloppy. Think cool, summer chic!

Until next time...

-Kori

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Shopping In Season

Right now in the midst of summer, you can shop ahead for fall as well as get hot deals on last season's clothes, shoes and other goods. But sometimes, you want bargains on items that you can wear and use right now! Don't think you have to overspend when shopping in season. There are plenty of sales on summer items, if you know where to look.

Are you headed on a beach vacation? Get your body bikini-ready with a fabulous body scrub. Exfoliation is necessary to get rid of dead skin cells and rejuvenate your skin, leaving it glowing and radiant. Check out The Body Shop Body Scrub Sale. These super scrubs are regularly priced at $20 but right now, you can get $6-$10 off. One of my favorite scrubs in Boots Renewing Body Polish, which is on sale at Target for under $7. Follow up with body butter, oil, lotion and other fabulous products. Your skin will look fab as you hit the beach or lay by the pool.

And you can't be bikini-ready without an actual bikini. Check out Macy's, where you can get this Rampage plaid bikini for half off! You can purchase the top and bottom separately to get the perfect fit. Believe it or not, Target has some fabulous bikinis too. Check out these bikinis on clearance. Some are marked waaaay down with discounts of 65%. Instead of $29.99, you spend just $10.48!

Tank tops are wardrobe staples this season. You can wear them on the weekends with shorts or capris, or layer them under a blazer or cropped jacket at the office. Victoria's Secret has some terrific tees and tanks on sale for just $10 to $20 each. Some items, you save up to $39. My fav is this yellow scoop neck tee. It was $29.50, but now it's just $9.99. You'll also love this modern tube top, it comes in a dozen colors and is on clearance for just $9.99.

And what else do you need on a hot summer day? Ice cream, of course!

Did you know you can get free Starbucks coffee ice cream each day until July 19th? They give away 800 freebies per hour, so hop on over to Facebook page to get your chance to win.

Mmmm... Java Chip Frappucino.

-Kori

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Shoes for a Summer Party

Let's face it. In the past few months, many fashionistas have become budget-nistas. But just because we are keeping an eye on the price tags, doesn't mean that we are willing to sacrifice style. If you shop smart, you can look good without spending a fortune, no matter what the occasion. Today, let's talk about parties!

From backyard barbecues to country club soirées, summer is full of party opportunities. So my next question is, "What are you wearing?" Whether you are hanging out a beachside bar or dressing up for something a little more formal, you will definitely need a fabulous pair of shoes. So, let's look at some great deals on sensational summer shoes.

Wedges are always a terrific choice. If you are outdoors, they are easier to walk in and won't sink into the ground like stilettos and other pointy heels. These Colin Stuart peep-toe wedges are an awesome bargain at Victoria's Secret. Originally priced at $59.00, these shoes are marked down to just $19.99! They have a 4 1/2 inch woven espadrille wedge heel for a beachy appeal.

The tribal trend is still hot. If you are going native this summer, pick up a pair of wedges embellished with beaded tribal designs. These Mia sandals are ideal. These comfortable shoes have colorful beads along the T-strap. These tribal sandals feature a cork platform wedge heel. On sale now at Macy's, these sandals are discounted from $79.00 to $49.99.

If you are looking for something a little lower to the ground, flat thong sandals are the way to go. Look for thongs in fun, bold colors or those embellished with crystals or stones. These glossy patent leather Kacy thong sandals from Banana Republic are just perfect. They offer a bright coral color that will really add some "oomph" to your summer wardrobe. Originally $89.00, these colorful sandals are just $34.99 at Gap. Act now before they're all gone!

Over at Piperlime, you can find some fantastic deals on thong sandals. These Cocobelle sandals feature semi-precious stones along the strap and 3/4-inch heel. These sandals are on sale currently for $49.99 (originally $88.00).

If you have been wanting to splurge on some designer sandals, now's your chance -- at a discount! Piperlime offers an array of designer shoes on sale with brands from Marc Jacobs to Giuseppe Zanotti. These BCBGMAXAZRIA sandals are a hot deal at more than half off. The silver low-heeled sandals will add a touch of glitz to your summer outfits. Don't pay retail ($210) when you can get the BCBGMAXAZRIA Topaz sandals for just $99.99.

Now that you have found some shoes, head on over to Nordstrom, where you can save up to 55% on everything else you need for a summer party, like this ruffle chiffon dress. The pretty print and pleated skirt make this dress a flirty, feminine choice! It was originally $178, but you can get now for $79.90.

Happy Shopping!

--Kori

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Cooking Saves Money but Increases Danger

One of the biggest challenges I face with my budget is the purchase of food. The actual purchasing of food is easy--I love food. I purchase a lot of it. The problem begins when I have to take the food I've purchased out of the refrigerator and...cook it. There are days, hours, moments in which I enjoy cooking. Nothing too complex though, I have a three spice limit (and sea salt does not count).

I don't like to chop and, no matter how many times that one guy on Food Network who looks like Thomas Dolby tells me, I don't know how. I don't understand how to stop meat from splattering all over the place short of lidding my pan and stewing it. I'm baffled by al dente and frustrated with over easy.

Over the years, Hubby has gotten used to my hit-or-miss way with food. I've set fire to spaghetti noodles, mashed potato water (yeah, I know...but I did), and green beans. The green bean fire was so bad, we had to use a fire extinguisher on the stove and then what food I didn't burn was completely inedible. I once made a completely flat birthday cake and misspelled Hubby's name on it ("Happy Birthday Frak!").

So every week, I buy a mixture of easy to cook fresh food and easier to cook frozen food. Then, because I don't want to wash dishes or make a mess on the stove, we end up eating out. It's a terrible conundrum, and one that isn't going to solve itself.

Because common sense isn't always enough of a reason to change how you do things, I've decided to give myself a reward if I save money on food. While your problem may not be the same as mine, chances are there is somethign inyour budget that could improve with a little positive reinforcement:

• -Choose the thing you want to reduce spending on and add up what you;ve spent on it over the past month.
• -Decide how much you can reasonably reduce it by--10%, 20% or more.
• -Give yourself one month to reach your goal reduction. If you make it, reward yourself with an activity or treat that costs no more than the amount you saved.

So next month, if I cut my grocery spending by my goal of 10%, I'm getting a facial. What are you going to get?

Yo

Thanks stevenking for a picture of what my kitchen could look like if I'm not careful.

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Summer Beauty Essentials

"Free gift with purchase" -- don't you love those words when you are shopping for makeup, skincare products and fragrance? Every time I get my favorite Estee Lauder mascara, I always make sure to get the latest gift with purchase offer. Usually, you get a cute, colorful cosmetics case and a bunch of cool products, including long-standing favorites and new releases. Check out the current Estee Lauder Free Gift With Purchase offer right now at Macy's. When you spend $32.50 or more, you get a fabulous striped beach tote! Plus, of course a makeup case and a few select products too. What a deal!

While you are at Macy's (or on the Macys.com website), be sure to take a look at all their great makeup for summertime. In the summer, you can lighten up on your makeup routine. Instead of heavy foundation, opt for a tinted moisturizer. Instead of dark lipstick, glide on some pink lip gloss. Right now you can get Clinique's sunny-side favorites, which are perfect for summer. This time it's not a free gift with purchase, but rather a discount with purchase. When you buy anything from Clinique, you can get this deal for $32.50. The set includes five Clinique skincare and makeup products, packaged in a bright tote bag. The products include Clinique Fresh Bloom Allover Color, Clinique All About Eyes cream, Clinique Redness Solutions Mineral Powder, Clinique Color Surge Lipstick and Clinique Mascara.

Another essential makeup item for summertime is bronzer. Don't spend hours baking in the sun by the pool or on a tanning bed. There's nothing pretty about wrinkles and skin cancer, which come from harmful UV rays. Instead, you can get that sun-kissed look from bronzer. At Target, you can find Physicians Formula Organic Wear Bronzer for $10.49. Priced over $12 at other stores, this bronzer is actually good for your skin, featuring natural, botanical ingredients. Apply it lightly with a big brush to the places that the sun hits your face naturally -- forehead, cheeks, nose and chin.

If you are really a thrifty shopper, when it comes to cosmetics, e.l.f. is a must. Everything from e.l.f. cosmetics is priced at just a $1.00. So you can stock up on all the makeup that you need without spending a bundle. And right now, e.l.f. is offering a free pair of flip flops when you spend just $5.00. Enter the code 5FOR5FLIP at checkout and you will see the flip flops added to your cart.

Once you have your face all fixed up for summer, you need the right swimwear too. There are plenty of sales going on right now on everything from bikinis to swimdresses. At 6PM, you can save up to 71% on women's swimwear. Whether you are looking for a forgiving one-piece suit or an itsy bitsy teenie weenie bikini to show off your bod, you can get a fabulous deal. When you get out of the water, slip into a colorful dress and head to a summer party. This ruffle wrap dress is available from Banana Republic for $130. But that's not the final price -- you can get a 20% discount and free shipping by entering the promo code "BRNEW" at checkout.

Now you are all ready for summer fun... makeup, shoes, swimwear and a pretty dress. What more could you need?! Have a great weekend and enjoy the summer sun.

--Kori

Image: istockphoto

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