Saturday, May 1, 2010

Deal of the Day: Carter's Online Store

Carter's is now selling their cozy and colorful clothes online. This adorable dress is 50% off -- only $9! When my daughter was a baby, she lived in these -- 2 for $9. There is lots more online so look around on the site if you are in need of some basics for your kiddos. There were some free shipping and 20% off coupon codes online but most of them expired yesterday. Since the website launched recently, I am sure there will be more promotions to come. Until then, enjoy some good deals on durable clothes. Gymboree quality at Target prices. Say it with me: cheap and cheerful.

Favorite Things: Saltwater Sandals

If you want a sandal that is classic in style and will last the entire summer, look no further. Saltwater sandals, only $29.95 at Nordstrom, sell for $40 in most other stores.

If you don't live near a Nordstrom, call the children's shoe department of your closest store. Often, if you talk to the right salesperson, he or she will offer to ship you the shoes for free.

If you do live near a Nordstrom, call ahead and have the salesperson set aside some colors and sizes for you. These sandals fly off the shelves and you can save yourself a trip if your colors and sizes are not in stock.

Of course, this is Nordstrom we're talking about so if your colors and sizes are not in stock when you're at the store, you can purchase the correct pair and they will ship it to your house for free.

Ahhhh, costumer service and the best price in town. Now, that is cheap and cheerful!

Thursday, April 29, 2010

Deal of the Day: Free Noah's Bagel


Before my metabolism caught up with me, I was a complete Noah's Bagels devotee. With this free coupon, I may just have to rediscover my love for a toasted sesame with sundried tomato cream cheese. Print and enjoy my friends. You deserve it.

Wednesday, April 28, 2010

Today's Giveway: American Idol Ford Fiesta Contest

Ummmm, how cute is this car? You can try to win one here. It's not an Oprah "everyone gets a car contest" but it can't hurt to enter!

Cheap and Cheerful Cooking: Tuna and Green Bean Salad

Wondering what to do with the Italian tuna in your pantry? This recipe from Giada de Laurentiis is fresh and easy.

Ingredients
1 1/2 pounds slender green beans, trimmed, halved crosswise
3 teaspoons salt, plus more to taste
2 large red potatoes, diced
1/3 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice
2 garlic cloves, finely chopped
1/3 cup extra-virgin olive oil
1 teaspoon dried oregano
3/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
8 ounces cherry tomatoes, halved
1/2 cup chopped fresh basil leaves
1/4 cup chopped fresh Italian parsley leaves
9 ounces canned tuna packed in oil, drained

Directions
Cook the green beans in a large pot of boiling water until crisp-tender, stirring occasionally, about 4 minutes. Using a mesh strainer, transfer the green beans to a large bowl of ice water to cool completely. Drain the green beans and pat dry with a towel.

Add 2 teaspoons of salt to the same cooking liquid and bring the liquid to a simmer. Add the potatoes to the simmering liquid and cook until they are just tender but still hold their shape, about 8 to 10 minutes. Transfer the potatoes to the ice water to cool completely. Drain the potatoes and pat dry with a towel.

In a small bowl, whisk the lemon juice, garlic, oil, oregano, 1 teaspoon salt and 3/4teaspoon pepper. Place the tomatoes, basil and parsley in a large serving bowl. Add the tuna and toss gently to combine. Add the green beans and potatoes and gently combine. Pour the dressing over the salad and toss to coat.

Tuesday, April 27, 2010

Favorite Things: Slainte Bags

Jill Bornemann is the creative spark behind Slainte Bags. (She also happens to be the mom of my son's preschool pal.) Too many fun styles from which to choose, not to mention the gorgeous fabrics. Become a fan on Facebook to hear the latest news. Or just email her link to your husband -- just in time for a spring treats or Mother's day gift.

Deal of the Day: Free 12 oz. Mocha or Caramel Frappe


Free! And pretty darn tasty. Check your weekly Red Plum for a coupon for a 12 oz. Mocha or Caramel Frappe. No purchase necessary. The coupon is good through 5/31.

Sunday, April 25, 2010

Cheap and Cheerful Cooking: Chocolate Banana Bread


I love making banana bread because I hate to see those spotted bananas go to waste. This recipe from Sunset Magazine is a different spin on the tried and true banana loaf. Who can resist adding chocolate?

Ingredients

12 ounces pitted prunes or 1 1/2 cups of unsweetened prune baby food
3/4 cup mashed ripe bananas (2 medium)
2 large eggs
1 cup all-purpose flour or whole-wheat pastry flour (or 1/2 cup of each)
1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
2 teaspoons baking powder
2 teaspoons cinnamon
1 1/2 teaspoons baking soda
1 cup chopped walnuts
1/2 cup banana chips, coarsely chopped
1 cup semisweet chocolate chips

Preparation

1. In a small saucepan, bring prunes and 2 cups water to a boil over high heat. Reduce heat and simmer, uncovered, until prunes are very soft, about 20 minutes. Drain. (Or just use the prune baby food and skip this step!)

2. Meanwhile, preheat oven to 350°. Lightly butter a 5- by 9-in. loaf pan and line bottom with a piece of parchment paper cut to fit.

3. In a food processor, whirl prunes and bananas until very smooth. Add eggs and whirl to combine.

4. In a large bowl, sift together flour, cocoa, baking powder, cinnamon, and baking soda. Stir in banana mixture until evenly moistened. Stir in nuts, banana chips, and chocolate chips. Scrape the thick batter into pan and spread level.

5. Bake bread until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out a little chocolaty but not gooey, 45 to 50 minutes. Loosen bread from pan with a knife and invert onto a rack. Remove parchment. Turn bread right side up and let cool at least 1 hour before slicing.

Enjoy with a nice cold glass of milk. Yum.

Favorite Things: Softies from SaintlySilver

My mom found these adorable "softie" saints and angels on Etsy and, if it is even possible, they are even cuter in person! What a fun gift for a baptism or other religious occassion! Or as a pick me up for a sick friend. Or just something cute for your mantle. Or just for no reason at all. My personal favorite is Saint Clare of Assisi; did you know she is the patron saint of television?

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