Deals of the Day: Five Under Ten -- 5 Gifts Under $10 For The Under Age 10 Crowd

Five fun items to consider adding to your holiday gift list or birthday party gift closet:

1. Melissa and Doug Classic Card Games: This trio of games is only $9.99. I picked it up the other day for my son and it has been a huge hit. The cards are sturdy and colorful.

2. Make some special occasion pancakes and set this wrapped book on the table. You'll be giggling in no time. Eric Carle's illustrations are delicious too! Just $8.99 for the sturdy board book.

3. A cuddly fleece jacket from Children's Place. I saw these in the store today and there are adorable choices for boys and girls. All under $10, plus lots of 15% printable coupons out there.

4. Ok, so this one is only for girls but who can resist these retro leg warmers? Can you say flashback to "Flashdance"? Only $7.50!

5. Let him whack at his little sister all he wants with this Nerf Sword. Just kidding. But you know any active kid would love running around outside on a crisp afternoon with this in hand. $10 for 30 minutes of wearing themselves out is a bargain!

Cheap and Cheerful wants to know: Please share your favorite under $10 gifts for those under 10 or those trying to relive their youth.

Money Mantra Number 10: The Best Things In Life Are Free

Just when the holiday gift giving season is draining your wallet faster than you can say "Ho, ho, ho", pause and remember that the best things in life are free. Give the present of presence. Put down the Blackberry and really cuddle with a loved one. Giggle about your day. Play Go Fish ten times in a row. Set aside fifteen minutes to call an old friend. Take an early morning walk around the block with your family and just talk and listen. Write down a list of funny holiday memories and put them on your fridge. Your presence is a gift both to yourself and others. No strings attached. No fancy wrapping required. No hefty price tag. The perfect present is presence.

Favorite Things: Pamper Yourself

In this busy holiday season, don't forget to take some time to relax and enjoy. Surround yourself with a little luxury. The bath products from Flourish Bath + Body may be just what you need to pamper yourself a bit without breaking the bank. This I know for sure -- the Blood Orange Lip Balm or the Brown Sugar Body Scrub would be welcome in my stocking. What's your favorite scent?

Favorite Things: Fun Favors from Frecklebox.com

I was excited to find another fun source for personalized gifts for kids (and the kids at heart who know special little people). Check out Frecklebox.com. The metal lunchboxes are to die for. Hey, you're never too old for a stylish carrier for your PB&J. 10% off your purchase with the code TP10.

Cheap and Cheerful Challenge -- December: A Free Stocking Stuffer

For many years, a family tradition has been to write a letter to each member of the family to place in their Christmas stocking. These lovely notes share memories from the year and remind the reader that he or she is loved and cherished. I challenge you to write a stocking note (or two or three or more) this year. It's free and just takes a few minutes. But, believe me, the notes are priceless. So grab a card, grab a coffee, grab a moment to yourself and put your love into written form.

Cheap and Cheerful wants to know: What "free" gifts are a part of your family's traditions and rituals?

Cheap and Cheerful Chatter: Cyber Monday -- Boom or Bust?

Snag any good deals today? I was disappointed at what I saw but maybe I was missing something. Please share with the class.