Favorite Things: Halloween Blanket from TheGoebelGirls

I couldn't resist posting this adorable Halloween blanket from TheGoebelGirls. Way too cute! October is almost here. I know my little pumpkins love cuddling with their Woobies. (And stealing mine, too!)

Deal of the Day: Boy's Shoes at Children's Place

I am one of "those" moms who makes her kiddos dress up for church. Totally mean, I know. Usually, I find great deals on Sperry boat shoes for my son on Amazon, but I recently found some super cute dress shoes at Children's Place. My son had some sneakers and boots from Children's Place before that have held up very nicely so I decided to try their dressier styles. These loafers looks great and cost less than $15. I just might have to go back and buy another pair in his next size!

Deal of the Day: Polka Dot Tote from Sam Moon

Cheap and Cheerful faithful reader Dianna suggested this site. Sam Moon Trading Online offers a variety of adorable gift options at super prices. Check out this precious polka dot tote bag. Only $9.95!

Fill it with coloring books, crayons, Play Doh or other little kid goodies and you've got a perfect Christmas gift for under $20. Thanks Dianna!

Cheap and Cheerful Chatter: To Steam Mop or Not to Steam Mop?

I have to admit: I don't mind housecleaning. Well, and we don't quite have the budget for a maid service so having a positive attitude toward a necessary task makes it more fun. With two little sticky people in my house and hardwood floors in almost every room, I am looking for a quick way to buff up my floors. Normally, I used the Method O-Mop which works just fine but it isn't the most efficient process. Swiffer Wet also works for me in a pinch but I dislike all of the waste.
I've been "window shopping" online, checking out the steam mop universe. Before I pay $100 for one, anyone have any advice? All real world experience you can offer is appreciated.

Deal of the Day: Graco Nautilus Car/Booster Seat

Three carseats for the price of one! Does it get any better than that? This seat was recommended to me by several friends and I am so glad I took their advice. It is a perfect seat for a preschooler who can still fit a 65 pound 5-point restraint while allowing the child to grow into the high back booster and backless booster features. The seat design is attractive, the safety features are top notch, and the price is an amazing $144 on Amazon with free shipping. Check out this product. I think you will be as impressed as I am. Now if I can just convince his little sister than her "hand-me-down" big kid seat is just as cool. It's going to be a tall order. We might just end up ordering two of these!

Favorite Things: Windmill Kids

I'm a sucker for smocked dresses. And shopping at Windmill Kids means that indulging in stocking my daughter's closet with the adorable garbs is affordable. Windmill Kids is a true mom and pop company, run by a couple in Maine who has triplets! Save $5 off an order of $35 and up with the code TGHS. Act fast -- there are already some adorable holiday dresses on the shelves, as well as great prices on summer smocks. Code expires on September 30th.

Cheap and Cheerful Cooking: Southwestern Pasta Salad

This is a great side dish for a party, especially if you have vegetarian guests. It's also easy to substitute less or more veggies, add cheese, add a bit of sugar to the "dressing", etc. Enjoy!

INGREDIENTS
1/2 (16 ounce) package rotini pasta
1/3 cup vegetable oil
1/4 cup fresh lime juice
2 tablespoons chili powder, or to taste
2 teaspoons ground cumin
1/2 teaspoon salt
2 cloves garlic, crushed
1 1/2 cups whole kernel corn
1 (15 ounce) can black beans, drained and rinsed
1/2 cup diced green bell pepper
1/2 cup diced red bell pepper
1/2 cup fresh cilantro leaves
1 cup chopped roma (plum) tomatoes

DIRECTIONS
Bring a large pot of lightly salted water to a boil. Add pasta and cook for 8 to 10 minutes or until al dente; drain.
In a large bowl combine oil, lime juice, chili powder, cumin, salt and garlic. Stir in pasta and set aside to cool to room temperature, stirring occasionally.
Stir in corn, beans, green pepper, red pepper and 1/2 of the cilantro leaves. Spoon onto a platter and garnish with tomatoes and remaining cilantro. Serve chilled or at room temperature.

Deal of the Day: Snapfish 40% Off Sale

Check out these great deals on Snapfish. Mugs, photo books, coasters and more! Just in time for you to save those end of the summer memories. You might even take care of some stocking stuffers before the holiday madness begins. Or get your Halloween costumes early and make some greeting cards with the smiling faces of your little goblins.

Favorite Things: Gloveables

My pal Wendy brought me a pair of these today. One word: fabulous. Everyone needs a pair or two or three. After all, who says cleaning your house has to mean torn yoga pants and a bleach spotted t-shirt? Or at least you could jazz up said cleaning outfit with a pair of Gloveables? You know you can't resist!