Christmas Shopping Bargains - Weekend Dec. 15/16

If you are a last minute shopper, you are in luck this weekend.  There are many stores that are breaking out their best prices this weekend.  If you are buying the bulk of your Christmas gifts this weekend, you can totally save money.

The first store I want to discuss is Michael's.  Just about everything is on sale.  There are dollar items that are only 50 cents.  T-shirts that are usually $3.99 are now 2 for $6.  Many holiday items are 30 to 60 percent off this weekend.  Not to mention, Michael's has been more than generous with coupons.  They are currently offering 20% off coupons to ALL items... even sale items, for this weekend only.  You just need to sign up for their email discounts.

The next store we need to discuss is New York & Company.  I remember by this point last year, they were all but giving the store away.  The same can be said this year.  There are shirts for 10 bucks.  Scarf and glove sets for $10 that are regularly around $25.  Each day, New York & Company sends emails with crazier and crazier discounts.  I am waiting for them to offer to pay me to shop there soon.

I would also recommend signing up for emails from Yankee Candle and Bath and Body Works.  Each day, both stores are offering a different sale item.  For instance, yesterday Bath and Body Works was selling large candles for only $8 a candle.  They are usually $20 a candle.  Today Bath and Body Works was selling body cream for only $5!  If you sign up for their emails, you will be the first to know the great daily deals at both stores.

I do not promote waiting the last minute to go Christmas shopping, but this year, it does make sense.  Many stores are breaking out some amazing deals to appeal to every shopper.  Even if you thought you were done shopping, it might be worth it to add a few more gifts to your list now.  So enjoy it, last minute shoppers! 

 

Staying Warm This Winter - Christmas Gifts That Help Others

So far, this winter has been pretty mild in Maryland.  I have heard predictions that it is going to get much colder though.  Since many of us have to keep the heat down this winter, it is nice idea to give practical gifts that will keep everyone warm.  There was a time when practical gifts were not the funnest gifts to give, but that is no longer the case.  Staying warm and saving money is something everyone enjoys.

Some ideas for "warm gifts" include:

Slippers: Warm, fuzzy slippers go a long way keeping a person warm.  No one wants to walk around at home wearing shoes; slippers are a warm solution to that.

Socks: Cozy socks are the perfect present for people to keep warm this winter.  I am not saying socks are a good idea as the ONLY gift for someone, but slippers and socks or socks and pajamas are a nice idea.

Pajamas:  Thick and warm pajamas are definitely a most appreciated gift this holiday season.  If you buy matching slippers, that is ever better.

Winter hats:  There are plenty of warm winter hats available at stores.  You can get knitted caps or even animal shaped hats.  This is a great option for someone that works outside a lot in the snow.

Boots: Along the same line as hats, boots can be practical and fashionable.  It can be a challenge getting the exact size right though, so unless you are 100% sure on this one, you might want to skip it.

Coats: A nice coat is always a great present for someone during the winter.  This is especially the case if this person has been wearing the same coat for years.  It can be fun to add something new to a wardrobe.

Blankets: A great warm gift are blankets, throws, electric blankets, and electric throws.  Not only are these practical gifts, many electric throws and blankets are very reasonably priced this holiday season.  Also, some have really cute patterns or cartoon characters on them.

Sweaters: Oh no, it is the standard knitted sweater gift for Christmas!  However, some sweaters are beautiful and stylish.  Sweaters that button in the front are the perfect gift for those that work at a chilly office and often need to throw a sweater on when it gets too cold.

Energy saving heaters: There are many options now for heaters.  Most modern portable heaters have automatic shutoffs if they overheat and some are cute and quiet.  A lot of heaters even come with remote controls!  How great is that?  They are the perfect gift for someone without reliable heat at their home, or for someone that wants to warm a small space and save money.