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9 ways to “Go Green” for St. Patrick’s Day

St. Patrick’s Day is a day to celebrate Irish culture and heritage, and since it’s all about the “green” it’s also a great opportunity to think about how we can make a positive impact on the environment. Here are eight ways to “go green” this St. Patrick’s Day and reduce your carbon footprint:

Use natural fabrics. When it comes to clothing, natural fabrics like cotton, linen, and wool are generally more sustainable than synthetic materials like polyester and nylon. These natural fabrics are biodegradable, require less energy to produce, and are often more comfortable and breathable to wear.

Invest in quality, long-lasting items. Poorly made products are one of the biggest contributors to environmental damage, so consider investing in quality, long-lasting items that you use for years to come. This not only saves money in the long run, but it also reduces the environmental impact of disposing of broken products.

Choose sustainable brands. When shopping, consider choosing brands that prioritize sustainability. Look for brands that use eco-friendly materials, employ ethical practices, and have a commitment to preservation.

Go for pajamas. If you’re planning on celebrating St. Patrick’s Day at home, why not go for the ultimate in comfort and sustainability – pajamas! Not only are pajamas a cozy and relaxing choice, but they’re also a great way to reduce your carbon footprint. So many pajama brands are made from sustainable materials like silk and cotton, so you can feel good about your purchase.

Eat locally and seasonally. One of the biggest contributors to greenhouse gas emissions is the transportation of food. By eating locally and seasonally, you can reduce the distance your food has to travel and support your local economy. Look for farmer’s markets, CSA (community supported agriculture) programs, and other sources of local produce, meats, and fish.

Choose sustainable transportation. If you’re planning on celebrating St. Patrick’s Day out and about, consider choosing sustainable transportation options. Walking, biking, or taking public transportation are all great alternatives to driving and can help to reduce your carbon footprint.

Support renewable energy. One of the most effective ways to go green is to support renewable energy sources like solar and wind power. Look for ways to incorporate these clean energy sources into your life, such as by switching to a renewable energy plan for your home or supporting businesses that use renewable energy.

Get a better night’s sleep. Believe it or not, getting a better night’s sleep can actually help you reduce your carbon footprint. When you’re well-rested, you’re more likely to make good decisions, including choices that are environmentally friendly. Make sure to wear comfortable to help you get your best sleep.

Shop secondhand. One of the most sustainable choices you can make is to shop secondhand. Not only does this reduce waste and save resources, but it’s also a great way to find unique and one-of-a-kind items. Look for thrift stores, consignment shops, and online marketplaces like eBay and Poshmark for secondhand clothing and other items. You might be surprised at what you can find!


We hope these suggestions have given you some ideas for how to “go green” this St. Patrick’s Day and reduce your carbon footprint. Every little bit counts, and by making small changes in our daily lives, we can all play a part in protecting the environment and creating a more sustainable future. Happy St. Patrick’s Day!

Dealing with the February Blahs

It’s the month of love, but for many of us, February can also bring on the “blahs.” The weather is still cold, the holiday cheer has worn off, and it feels like spring is still a long way away. If you’re feeling a bit down or just not quite yourself this month, here are seven ways.

Get some fresh air and sunshine. Even if it’s cold outside, try to spend at least a few minutes each day getting some fresh air and sunlight. This can help boost your mood and energy levels and can help to combat the winter blues.

Exercise regularly. Exercise has been shown to improve mood and reduce stress, so make an effort to get moving regularly. It doesn’t have to be anything too strenuous – even a brisk walk around the block can make a difference.

Connect with loved ones. Spending time with friends and family can help to lift your mood and provide a sense of support and connection. Make an effort to reach out to people you care about and schedule some quality time together.

Treat yourself. It’s important to take care of yourself and do things that bring you joy. Whether it’s indulging in your favorite comfort food, buying yourself a small gift, buying a new pair of pajamas, or just taking a long soak in the tub, make an effort to do something nice for yourself.

Get organized. Sometimes the “blahs” can be a result of feeling overwhelmed or cluttered. Take some time to declutter and organize your space, and you may find that it helps to improve your mood and clarity of mind.

Try something new. Stepping outside of your comfort zone can be a great way to shake off the “blahs” and inject some excitement into your life. Consider taking a new class, trying a new hobby, or just doing something out of the ordinary.

Wear your pajamas all day. This might seem like a small thing, but sometimes the simplest pleasures can make a big difference. If you’re feeling down, take a day off from getting dressed and just relax in your pajamas. Not only is it comfortable, but it can also be a fun way to break up the monotony of the day. Plus, wearing pajamas all day has been shown to have some surprising health benefits, including improved sleep and reduced stress. So go ahead and embrace your inner sloth – it might just be the pick-me-up you need.

We hope these suggestions help to lift your spirits and get you through the February blahs. Remember, it’s okay to have off days, and it’s important to take care of yourself. Don’t be afraid to seek help if you’re feeling really down – there are resources available to support you.

10 best Valentine’s Day gifts to warm their hearts

Valentine’s Day is just around the corner, and if you’re looking for a gift that’s a bit more unique than the usual chocolates and flowers, you’re in luck. Here are ten unique Valentine’s Day gift ideas that are sure to put a smile on your loved one’s face:

Pajamas. Who doesn’t love a cozy pair of pajamas? Whether it’s a luxurious pair of satin pajamas or a comfy set of flannel jammies, this gift is sure to be appreciated. Not only are pajamas a practical and comfortable gift, but they can also be a great way to show your loved one that you care about their comfort and well-being.

A personalized gift. There’s nothing quite like a gift that’s been personalized just for you. Whether it’s a custom piece of jewelry, a monogrammed bag, or a framed photo, a personalized gift is a thoughtful and unique way to show your love.

A cooking class or cooking-themed gift. For the foodie in your life, a cooking class or a cooking-themed gift might be the perfect choice. Consider signing them up for a class at a local cooking school, or get them a gift like a cookbook, kitchen gadget, or gourmet ingredients.

An experience gift. Instead of a physical gift, consider giving your loved one an experience to enjoy together. This could be tickets to a concert or show, a gift certificate for a couples massage, or even a weekend getaway.

A subscription box. Subscription boxes are a great gift for anyone who loves getting surprises in the mail. There are boxes for all sorts of interests, from coffee lovers to bookworms to pet lovers. Consider signing your loved one up for a subscription to a box that caters to their interests.

A custom piece of art. For a truly one-of-a-kind gift, consider commissioning a custom piece of art. This could be a painting, a sculpture, or even a piece of jewelry. Not only is this a unique and special gift, but it’s also a great way to support local artists.

A gift that gives back. If you and your loved one are socially conscious, consider giving a gift that gives back. There are plenty of companies that offer products that support causes like sustainability, fair trade, and charitable giving. Not only will your gift be appreciated, but it will also make a positive impact on the world.

The gift of relaxation. If your special someone is always on the go, a gift that helps them relax and unwind might be just what they need. Consider a gift like a massage, a spa day, or a cozy blanket, or robe.

Help them learn something new. For the lifelong learner in your life, a gift that helps them learn something new might be the perfect choice. Consider a gift like a cooking class, a language-learning program, or a membership to a museum or science center.

A gift that celebrates your love. Finally, don’t forget that Valentine’s Day is all about celebrating your love. A simple but heartfelt gift like a handwritten note, a living plant, or a homemade gift can be just as meaningful as a more elaborate present.

We hope these gift ideas have given you some inspiration for finding the perfect Valentine’s Day gift for your loved one. Remember, it’s the thought that counts! Have a wonderful Valentine’s Day!

The 6 Best Self-Development Books to Read this Year

Self-development books can be a great way to improve ourselves and reach our goals. They can provide us with new perspectives, tools and strategies, and help us to understand ourselves better. Plus, what’s better on a cold winter day than snuggling up in your favorite pajamas, with a hot cup of tea and good book? We say nothing!

So if you need some recommendations and you’re looking to make some positive changes in your life and grow as a person, here are six self-development books that are worth checking out this year:

“The 7 Habits of Highly Effective People” by Stephen R. Covey

This classic book has been helping people improve their lives for decades. It teaches the importance of proactivity, setting goals, and developing good habits to become more effective and successful. With a focus on personal and interpersonal skills, “The 7 Habits of Highly Effective People” is a must-read for anyone looking to take their self-development to the next level.

“The Four Agreements” by Don Miguel Ruiz

This short but powerful book teaches the importance of personal integrity and how to live a happier and more fulfilling life. It offers four simple but profound agreements that can help you to transform your life: be impeccable with your word, don’t take anything personally, don’t make assumptions, and always do your best.

“The Power of Now” by Eckhart Tolle

“The Power of Now” is a spiritual classic that teaches the importance of living in the present moment. It helps readers to understand the ego and how it can hold us back, and offers practical techniques for living a more mindful and present life. If you’re looking to reduce stress and find greater peace and happiness, this book is for you.

“Awaken the Giant Within” by Tony Robbins

Tony Robbins is a well-known life coach and motivational speaker, and “Awaken the Giant Within” is his classic guide to personal development. It teaches the importance of setting and achieving goals, developing a positive mindset, and taking control of your life. With a focus on practical strategies and techniques, this book is a great resource for anyone looking to make positive changes.

“You Are a Badass” by Jen Sincero

This hilarious and engaging book is all about helping readers overcome their doubts and insecurities and become their most badass selves. With a mix of practical advice and humorous anecdotes, “You Are a Badass” is a great read for anyone looking to boost their confidence and take control of their lives.

The Subtle Art of Not Giving a F*ck” by Mark Manson

This irreverent book takes a different approach to self-development, teaching readers the importance of focusing on what truly matters and letting go of the things that don’t. With a focus on personal growth and happiness, “The Subtle Art of Not Giving a F*ck” is a refreshing and unconventional take on self-improvement.


We hope this list of self-development books has given you some ideas for what to read this year. Remember, personal growth is a journey, and there’s no one-size-fits-all solution. The key is to find what works for you and to be open to trying new things. Happy reading!

Start the New Year by getting organized

As we all know, the start of a new year is a great time to get organized and declutter our lives. It’s a chance to get rid of the old and make room for the new (both literally and figuratively). If you’re feeling overwhelmed by the thought of getting organized, you aren’t alone – we’ve all been there. But don’t worry, because we’re here to help you get started with some simple, easy ways to organize five common areas in your home:

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‘Tupperware’ Cupboard

If you’re anything like us, your food storage container cabinet is probably a disaster. It’s almost like a black hole. Things go in together but somehow either a lid or a container mysteriously vanishes. Good organization can stop this phenomenon.

  • First things first, get rid of any containers that are broken or have missing lids. These are just taking up space and causing clutter.
  • Sort through the rest of your containers and lids, and try to match up as many as possible. If you can’t find a matching lid, it’s time to say goodbye to that container.
  • As you’re sorting, consider getting rid of any containers that you no longer use or that are too small or too big for your needs.
  • Once you’ve got everything sorted, consider investing in some organizing tools to help keep everything in its place. There are lots of options out there, like stackable Tupperware organizers or drawer organizers that can help you keep lids and containers separated.

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Junk Drawer

We all have one – that infamous “junk drawer” that seems to accumulate everything and anything. But it doesn’t have to stay that way! Here’s how to tackle your junk drawer:

  • Start by emptying out the entire drawer. This can be a bit overwhelming, but trust us, it’s worth it.
  • Sort through everything in the drawer and decide what you want to keep and what can be tossed. Be ruthless here – if you haven’t used it in the past year, chances are you won’t use it again.
  • Once you’ve got everything sorted, think about adding dividers or small bins to keep things in their place. They can really help in keeping things from getting cluttered again.

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Bathroom Cabinets

Bathroom cabinets can get messy quickly with all of the various products we use on a daily basis, especially if you have several people using the same bathroom.

  • Start by taking everything out of the cabinet and sorting through it. Get rid of any products that are empty, expired, or that you no longer use. If you have old medication NEVER just throw it in the trash or flush it. Check with your local pharmacy or police department to find out if they have a medication disposal program.
  • Use small containers or bins to help keep similar items together. For example, you could have one container for makeup, one for hair products, and one for skincare products.
  • If you have a lot of products, consider using stackable organizers or bins to help make the most of your space.

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Pantry

A cluttered pantry can be a recipe for disaster (pun intended). It’s hard to find what you need when everything is jumbled together, and it can lead to wasted food and money. Here’s how to get your pantry organized:

  • Start by taking everything out of the pantry and sorting through it. Get rid of any expired or spoiled items, and consider donating any non- Once you’ve gotten rid of expired and unnecessary items, start organizing the items you’re keeping. Group similar items together (e.g. all of your canned goods, all of your dry goods, etc.) and consider using storage containers or bins to help keep everything in its place.
  • If you have a lot of bags of chips, cereal, or other similar items, consider using small bins or containers to keep them organized and prevent them from getting crushed.
  • Consider using stackable organizers or bins to help make the most of your space, especially if you have a smaller pantry.
  • Use clear storage containers or bins to make it easy to see what you have and to help prevent wasted food.

Consider labeling your bins or containers to make it even easier to find what you’re looking for.

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Closet

If your closet is cluttered and disorganized, it can be hard to find what you need and can make getting dressed in the morning a frustrating experience. Here’s how to get your closet in order:

  • Start by taking everything out of the closet and sorting through it. Donate or toss any items that you no longer wear or that are in poor condition.
  • As you’re sorting, group similar items together (e.g. all of your tops, all of your pants, etc.). This will make it easier to find what you’re looking for.
  • If you have a lot of clothes, consider investing in some organizing tools like hangers with multiple layers or hanging organizers to help make the most of your space.
  • Consider using storage bins or baskets to store items that you don’t use as frequently, such as seasonal clothing or extra bed linens.

This doesn’t all have to happen in one day. Take it slow, do a one thing at a time, and focus on the task at hand. Remember, the end result will be super gratifying! Happy organizing!

 

How to Throw a New Year’s Eve Pajama Party

It’s hard to believe 2023 is right around the corner.  But hold on – we can’t say goodbye to 2022 without a New Year’s Eve celebration.  And, while New Year’s Eve is one of the most popular nights to go out on the town and celebrate, more and more people are avoiding the crowds and staying home to ring in the new year. So why not celebrate in the comfort of your own home – and even better, with a New Year’s Eve Pajama Party?

Make it a small family celebration or invite friends and neighbors to join you. They will love this creative and fun way of celebrating the New Year. Here’s what you’ll need:

The Guest List

Whether you keep the party to just your family or invite other families and friends to join in, the guest list will determine how the rest of the night will be run and how many people to prepare for. If you’re thinking of throwing a family-friendly party, it’s a great excuse to wear those matching family pajamas one more time or to purchase a set.

If you’re inviting other families, you’ll want to keep track of the number of adults and the number of kids coming to make sure you can accommodate everyone.

Guest List

 

The Invitation

Once you have your guest list complete, it’s time to create the invitation. It’s important to include not only the date, start and end time, and your address, but to also make it clear that this is a pajama party and give your guests an idea of what they can expect.  Your main goal is to ring in the new year which means staying up later than normal for most of us. Keep it cozy and invite your friends to wear pajamas that they can relax and stay comfy in – especially if kids are coming. If you have a certain theme you’re going for, make sure to include that in the invitation as well.

You’ll also want to let your guests know if they should bring anything.  This is especially important if you’re inviting your guests to stay overnight. Don’t forget to let them know how they can RSVP to the party and the deadline date to do so.

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The Decorations

The sky’s the limit! Remember that New Year’s Eve is a celebration so consider leaving up some of your holiday lights to keep the sparkle alive. This is also where you can add some glitz and glam to your otherwise comfy party. Add some signs, festive table cloths, and party favors and you’re ready to go!

Party Food

The Menu

Keep it simple and make sure whatever you are serving is easily accessible to your guest.  Prepare food that goes along with your cozy pajama theme like lasagna, mac & cheese, pizza, or chili. Or go for serving heavy appetizers so that guests can graze all night. Be sure to also have healthy options available for those who prefer to eat a bit lighter and have snacks available throughout the night.

Set up a self-serve beverage area with both alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages available. You’ll want to have several non-alcoholic options – not only for the kiddos, but for those who will be driving home after the party if they are not staying overnight.

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The Activities

As the goal of the celebration is to make it to midnight – it could be a long night.  Make a list of activities you can do throughout the night. Bring out the board games, card games, play charades or Pictionary or consider getting a karaoke machine. Depending on the guest list, you will want to have both adult themed games as well as children’s activities on hand.  Having plenty of things for the kids to do will also give the grown-ups a chance to have some time to hang out and socialize.

toast

 

 

The New Year’s Toast

You’ve made it to midnight and it’s time for the toast.  Set up a table with champagne and sparkling cider filled glasses and have your party favors close by.  This will make it easy for everyone to grab a glass and Toast to the New Year.

Your New Year’s Eve Pajama party is sure to be a hit.  Get creative and enjoy the festivities in the comfort of your own home  – and of course your pajamas.

6 Holiday beverages that are sure to please

Whether you’re expecting a full house for the holidays or enjoying a quiet evening at home snuggled in your favorite pajamas, these warm and cozy drinks are sure to be enjoyed by all this holiday season.

 

Mulled Wine

Mulled Wine – Serves 4-5

Mulled wine is a drink enjoyed all over the world. It’s the perfect drink to keep you warm this holiday season.

1 bottle moderately-priced dry red wine

¼ cup orange liquor or brandy

1 orange – sliced into rounds

5 cloves, whole

2-3 cinnamon sticks

2 star anise

2 tablespoons honey or maple syrup – add more or less to taste.

Combine all ingredients in a medium pot and stir. Heat to just below a simmer on medium heat. Do not boil. Reduce to low, cover and simmer for 30 minutes, or for a fuller flavor cook for up to three hours. Strain and keep liquid only.  Serve warm and garnish with orange slices or cinnamon sticks.

 

Irish Coffee

Traditional Irish Coffee – Individual Serving

You don’t have to be from Ireland to enjoy this classic winter favorite.

4 ounces hot coffee – regular or decaf.

1 ½ teaspoons packed brown sugar – use more or less to taste

1 ½ ounces Irish Whiskey – use a quality brand for the best flavor

1 ounce heavy cream – whipped

Pour the coffee into a mug or heatproof glass.  Add the brown sugar to the coffee and stir until dissolved.  Add Irish Whisky and stir again. Slowly top with the fresh whipped cream letting the cream float on top of the coffee mixture. For the best flavor and experience don’t stir the cream into the drink – drink the coffee through the cream – Delicious!

 

Choc Mint Kiss

Chocolate Peppermint Kiss – Individual Serving

This drink is the perfect mixture of soothing chocolate and refreshing peppermint – and it’s so simple to make.

6 ounces of prepared hot chocolate

1 ounce Crème de Cacao

1 ounce White Crème de Mint

1 ounce Heavy Cream – Whipped

Chocolate kisses and crushed peppermints for garnish.

Prepare your favorite hot chocolate in a mug or heatproof glass.  Stir in Crème de Cacao and White Crème de Minte.  Top with Fresh Whipped Cream and Garnish with a chocolate kiss and crushed peppermints.

 

Hot Cider

Hot Apple Cider* – Serves 5-6

Not only does this hot apple cider taste great – it’s a great way to bring out the warm aromas of the holiday season.

½ gallon fresh apple cider

½ cup whiskey, apple brandy or cinnamon whiskey

¼ cup brown sugar

1 orange – sliced in rounds

2 cinnamon sticks – add additional cinnamon sticks for garnish

Combine all ingredients into a slow cooker and cover. Bring to a simmer on low heat and cook for 3 – 4 hours.  Stir occasionally. Reduce heat to warm when ready to serve and garnish.

 

English Cider

English Cider* – Serves 4

You’ll love this twist on the traditional Hot Apple Cider!

½ gallon fresh apple cider

6 tea bags – English Breakfast or Earl Gray

2 ounces brandy

2 ounces dark rum

1 – 2 Lemons – sliced in rounds

¼ cup honey – add more or less to taste

In a medium pot, bring apple cider to a simmer.  Simmer for 45 minutes and let apple cider reduce. Remove cider from heat and add the tea bags, brandy, dark rum, lemon and honey.  Let seep for 5 minutes.  Remove tea bags and serve warm with a garnish of lemon.

 

Snow Angel

Snow Angel* – Makes 2 Servings

This creamy heavenly drink is the perfect treat to enjoy after dinner.  You’ll have a hard time having just one.

2 tablespoons white chocolate chips

2 tablespoons caramel sauce

2 teaspoons vanilla extract

1 cup milk – use 1% or 2%

2-4 ounces Baileys Irish Cream

1 cup mini marshmallows

In a small pot combine the first 4 ingredients. Heat on low to simmer, continuously stirring until chocolate chips are melted. Remove from heat and stir in Baileys.  Pour in mug and top with mini marshmallows, and caramel drizzle.

Don’t drink alcohol? Make it a mocktail instead. Drinks marked with an “*” can be made without alcohol and are just as delicious!  Cheers and Happy Holidays.

 

Gifting the Perfect Pair of Pajamas

Everyone loves (and needs) a great pair of comfortable pajamas! What better reason to give the gift of Pajamas this holiday season – or for that matter to celebrate those close to you at any special occasion throughout the year.

So now you have the perfect gift idea – but how do you pick the perfect pair of pajamas to give with so many choices out there? We’ve got you covered. Follow these tips to pick out the ideal pair!

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Who’s on your gift list?

Pajamas are considered a personal gift and are usually gifted to those close to us.  Think about who you’re buying for and ask yourself some questions about their style and interests to help you narrow it down.

Would they prefer pajamas with a more tailored look – like a two-piece classic set? Or, would they be more comfortable in a lounge style set? You can even mix and match pieces with some of the more casual styles.

Color is also something to think about.  Do they have a favorite color or pattern that they really love? The options are endless. You can find pajamas in any color and with tons of different designs to fit any personality.

Think about their interests and what they are passionate about. Are they an animal lover? Gardner? Do they have a love of food & wine? Whatever their interests, it’s pretty likely that you’ll find a set of PJs that expresses this and it’s sure to put a smile on their face.

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Where do they live?

Consider where your gift is headed. The fabric of the pajamas plays a big part in keeping a person comfortable in either warm or cold climates. You want to make sure you pick the right pair for the right climate and time of season.

If the person you are buying for lives in warmer climate, consider purchasing pajamas made of a lighter fabric such as cotton or satin. These fabrics are breathable and help to keep you cool. If they live in a colder climate, pick a pair made of a warmer cozier material such as flannel or fleece that will keep them warm when the temperature dips.

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What about the Kids?

Kids love snuggling up in their jammies. Pajamas make a great gift for kids and can help ensure they will get a good night’s sleep.  Some things to consider when shopping for kids are the age and size of the child.  For infants, footie pajamas or flapjacks are great choices – something that covers them but accommodates for easy diaper changes. Add a snug sack to keep them warm in colder climates.

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For toddlers, it’s a good idea to go with a footless pair of pajamas.  This allows them to be barefoot, so as they learn to walk, they will have more stability and it helps to keep them from slipping. Also, for kids potty training it’s a great idea to stick with a two-piece set.

For all kids, Pick a fun colorful pattern, and when choosing the correct size make sure that the pajamas are not too tight or restrictive, but fit comfortably and stretch with the child as they move at night.

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Make it a family affair

If you are looking for a gift for an entire family, then matching family pajamas are a must! It’s a hot trend that keeps getting bigger and you can even include the dog! Plus, you’ll look great spending your time together and the themed photo opp makes great social media content!

 

Pajamas make the perfect gift for the special someone(s) in your life. You know they will love them, wear them, and appreciate them.  Happy Shopping.

 

Smart Shopping on the Busiest Weekend of the Year!

The holiday season is here – and that means so is the busiest shopping time of the year.  While you can find all kinds of great deals on Black Friday and Cyber Monday the chaos can be overwhelming and stressful. But whether you’re heading out to the stores or shopping online from the comfort of your home, there are things you can do to find the best deals and keep from overspending or making impulse purchases.

Budget

Set a Budget. It’s easy to get caught up in all the fabulous deals you find out there.  But just because something is on sale, it doesn’t mean you should buy it. Make a list of the items you plan to buy and then put a limit on how much you can spend for each item. Setting a budget – and of course sticking to it – will help you not overspend or purchase items you may not need just because they are on sale. You’ll be happy you did after the holidays! Bonus Tip: When shopping online, make sure to take shipping fees into account and include them in your budget!

Scope

Scope Things out Ahead of time. Companies are already advertising Black Friday and Cyber Monday Sales.  Start scoping out the items you want now and make a plan.  Find out who has what you’re looking for and at the best price. We all know how it feels to buy something at one place – only to see it somewhere else for a lower price. Just because you see an item advertised at what looks to be a great deal, doesn’t mean it’s not available somewhere else for a lower price.  Compare prices of items at different retailers to ensure you’re getting the best deal around.

Return Policy

Know Store Return and Exchange Policies. Before you hit that “buy” button or fork over your cash, make sure you are aware of the retailer’s return and exchange policy. While some companies do offer extended return windows during the holidays, many companies can enforce stricter return policies and lots of times deeply discounted purchases can also mean it’s not returnable. Be on the lookout for “final sale” or restocking fees for larger items.  Make sure to ask for gift receipts when purchasing items for others and include it with the gift.  Make sure to read the fine print and if you’re not sure what the store policy is, be sure to ask before you buy!

Loyalty Rewards

Take Advantage of Loyalty Programs. Most retailers these days have some sort of loyalty membership program. These programs often give members early access to sales and additional coupons – and you can earn rewards on your purchases!  It’s a win-win. Once you’ve scoped out what you want and where you can find the best deal, sign up for the store’s loyalty program. Lots of times you can even save on shipping fees!

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And Finally – Start Early! Lots of stores are already advertising great deals.  You don’t have to wait for Black Friday or Cyber Monday to snatch up the savings.  If you see a good deal – grab it.

8 Ways to Adjust to the End of Daylight Saving Time

The end of Daylight Saving Time can be difficult to adjust to, but there are ways to get through it. Sure for one night you get an extra hour of sleep but the entire process can mess up your internal clock for weeks after the change.

According to the Better Sleep Council, about 60% of American adults need a couple weeks to recover from Daylight Saving Time. Luckily, there are some simple, inexpensive sleep aids available to help. These tips will help you adjust to the seasonal time change by improving your sleep at night and so you wake up fresh in the morning ready to take on the day.

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Be comfortable at night. We know the benefits of a great pair of pajamas. They don’t just make you look good, they will ensure that you get solid and productive sleep at night. Choose your pajamas based on your individual needs so for instance, if you get warm at night lighter fabrics are the way to go. If you’re someone who doesn’t like to feel confined, go for a loose fitting pair of pjs or a nightshirt. Whatever your style, you’ll find the perfect pair right here on our site!

Blackout

Install blackout shades or curtains. One way to adjust to the end of Daylight Saving time is by installing dark window in your bedroom. These coverings block out sunlight and give you a really dark room which creates an ideal sleeping environment by stimulating the production of melatonin, which signals the brain to sleep. As an extra benefit, heavy dark window treatments can help insulate a room and minimize noise.

 

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Wear a sleep mask. If blackout curtains are not an option, try wearing a sleep mask to block out light early in the morning. They are quite comfortable and make all the difference in the world when it comes to getting your rest and not waking up too early. And, they are quite fashionable so you’ll look fantastic while you snooze!

Sound Machine

Use a sound machine. White noise machines help you get a better quality night’s sleep by masking other noises that disturb your sleep. Not only can they help you get to sleep but also stay asleep, and may even help to train your brain to know when it’s time to hit the sack.

End Nap

Shortening or eliminating a child’s nap. This transition is tricky, and you’ll need to make sure your child is ready for it. Normally, naps are taken in the afternoon which gives them more energy to make it through the rest of the day. By eliminating this nap, your child will be more tired when it’s time for bed and keeping their sleep schedule from being thrown off.

Alarm

Setting an alarm to go to bed earlier. Setting an alarm to go to bed earlier can be one of the easiest ways to adjust to the end of Daylight Saving Time. Most people find that sleeping between the hours of 10 pm and midnight is the most restful, and by setting an alarm, you can make the change easier. But you should remember to change the clock before you go to bed so you won’t end up playing the “it’s really XX o’clock” game.

Phone off

Turn technology off. The light from your phone, tablet, or computer stimulates the brain and makes it more difficult to fall asleep. Turn off the phone and read a book or take a warm bath to unwind. The general rule of thumb is to avoid screens for at least two hours before bed.

Whole Grain

Eat earlier and smarter. Try eating at earlier in the evening so your body has time to digest the food. Avoid spicy and fatty foods, and choose healthy proteins and whole grains instead. Another thing to avoid is caffeinated drinks later in the day so you have time to pass the caffeine through your system.