Internet Shop Girl

With the long weekend ahead, many stores are definitely going on a sale.  Shoppers know that this is one of the best times to break the bank, especially with school opening after the holidays. It’s time to stock up on new sets of clothes, accessories and other personal stuff.

But with the maddening crowd of consumers making their way to the stores, it’s better to check online first. You can shop for about 30 minutes online and then head down to the beach to enjoy summer for the last time this year.

I’m rounding up some online stores holding a sale this weekend. Check out the following:

• Macy’s - Save 10 - 50% off on clothes, home furnishing and other essentials. Free shipping for purchases $100 and up. Promocode: SHIPSAVE.
• SupermediaStore - For anything you need with media — discs, cleaners, accessories. The started yesterday and will run until the 1st of Sept.
• Banana Republic - Save up to 25% off on women’s sweaters and 30% off on men’s shirts. The sale will go on until the end of September.
• Amazon - Sandals Section  - With an extra 20% off on sandals sales, Amazon.com is already cutting off this bargain to over 75%  off regular price.
• Amazon - Kitchen and Home -the store is offering 65% off till September 2.
• Ikea - this store isn’t far behind offering bargains and is offering 50% off on their already affordable furniture selection.
• Kmart - is also into the weekend holiday mood, offering 5%-25% off their items, with free shipping option.
• Geeks - Going all out with an 80% off discount on gadgets, computers, media and accessories.

Happy Shopping!

You’ve heard about how nutritionists and dietitians advise us to chew our food slowly to help with our diet, right? Apparently, the same concept is also applicable to dogs. Chewing slowly makes for healthier and happier pets, according to this medical finding. It says it also helps eliminate “gastric torsion” or bloating. We humans know what that feels like and dogs are supposed to feel the same, too.

So, this is the idea behind this dog bowl (pictured) which you notice comes with partitions to set the food in portions. Here’s a video comparison between two instances where the doggie eats from a traditional dog bowl and this fancier one called Dog Pause:

What do you think? Is it an amazing product or a pretty useless product for $17.95?

I’m honestly quite amused by the idea we can teach dogs some table manners! I dare say, this bowl should be a lot helpful to humans, too!

Thanks to Hillside Candies, Sweet tooth-ies and sugar-holics are able to enjoy an explosion of flavorful candies by going natural or organic.

These sweet temptations are made from organically processed cane juice and brown rice syrup with USDA-certified ingredients. Free of gluten, corn syrup, trans fat, additives or preservatives, Hillside Candies (Organic) come in delicious flavors that your taste buds may be craving for. It’s also low in sodium and dairy ingredients.

Clean and healthy candy? Yep, there is such a thing now! A pack of this organic candies has a shelf life of two years.

Hillside Candy also has other selections like sugar free and basic hard candy. The company is located in New Jersey with distributorship all over the world.

A scarf isn’t only used to keep you warmer, it’s quite a fashionable piece also. Some people just wear it to accessorize. So really, it’s an all-weather wardrobe addition. Where can you get scarves that aren’t only practical but stylish? I’ve come up with a selection for you to pick from:

How cool are these?

I wasn’t so sure about it at first. I thought that it was rather absurd, like a prank gift or something. But then I put some thought into it and realized this does make quite a unique gift for expecting mothers.

While everyone at the baby shower is giving baby stuff, here you are giving pregnant paper dolls to your expecting sister, cousin or best friend!

The set includes a “tummy-appropriate doll for each period”, which means the paper dolls go from the first to the last trimester. A bonus doll is also included, it’s the post-pregnancy paper doll. The collection also includes an “infant paper doll”. This gift idea is nothing but adorable and fun!

Moms to be will have a wonderful time playing with it.

I think it’s also a great gift for young girls with expectant mothers, so that they can better grasp the concept of having a new sibling in a couple of months.

Pregnant Paper Dolls are available here for $12.

David and Kelly Sopp has written some non-traditional gifts to give to expecting parents. These two humor books are guaranteed to make you laugh. Or if you know someone expecting a new baby soon, they will appreciate you for this book!

Safe Baby Handling Tips Where to get: Amazon Marketplace

New parents are often overwhelmed-and befuddled-when it comes to caring for their bundle of joy. Luckily Safe Baby Handling Tips saves the day with its hilarious “do’s and don’ts” on baby care. Now incompetent parents everywhere can benefit from this indispensable guide, which also includes a unique Wheel of Responsibility™ to help moms and dads negotiate baby chores (and shirk diaper duty!) whenever they can. Makes baby-rearing a blast!

The New Parents’ Fun Book: Laugh Yourself Silly Through Baby’s First Year! Where to get: Amazon

The creators of the bestselling Safe Baby Handling Tips and Safe Baby Pregnancy Tips are back with their trademark quirky humor-this time in a fun new format. Designed in the tradition of a children’s “activity” book, The New Parents’ Fun Book features crossword puzzles, connect-the-dots, mazes, quizzes, stickers, and other fun diversions-all for the new parent. It pokes gentle fun at the crazy, bumbling first few months of parenthood-and will appeal to those looking for a hilarious alternative to the standard, sentimental baby gift. Sure to give any new parent plenty of ways to pass the time during those 3 AM feedings!

All shoppers love a good bargain and I found the store for shopaholics who want nice looking stuff without laving a dent on the wallet. In fact, I created a whole ensemble — from the top to the pants, shoes and accessories —  all for $90 only!

ROMEO & JULIET COUTURE Sheer Ruffle Blouse	Romeo & Juliet Couture sheer ruffle blouse has ruffled drop sleeves and high neckline. Multiple rows of ruffles accent each side of a lace-up placket. This sheer blouse drops down with a small slit at each side. There is a hidden zipper at the left side. * 100% Cotton
MISS ME Sequin Butterfly Flats W/ Embroidery	Miss Me butterfly sequin flats have a rounded toe and bow trimming the vamp. The canvas shoe is accented with black tone embroidery and sequin butterflies. There is a lightly cushioned footbed and subtle heel. There is a smooth bottom sole.
KENNETH COLE Unlisted Faux Croc Skin Wallet (Black)	Kenneth Cole Unlisted faux crocodile skin wallet has a glossy sheen. A tab accented with a silver tone logo bar snaps open to a numerous credit card/id slots and three pockets. The back portion features a spacious zippered pocket.
STEVE MADDEN Celebrity Sunglasses	Steve Madden celebrity sunglasses have oversize black tone frames holding smoke tone lenses. The temples are imprinted with a silver tone Steve Madden logo and tiny studs.
DESIGNER DETAILS Onyx Bead Necklace	Designer Details onyx bead necklace has a long silver tone chain link strand. The strand is spaced with variously shaped onyx beads. A large oval shaped onyx bead sits at the center bottom
TYTE Stretch Skinny Jeans	Tyte stretch skinny jeans have a dark blue indigo tone wash and wrinkle wash across the lap. The seams are highlighted with contrast stitching. The waist secures with a zip fly and button front closure. This five pocket denim features heavy contrast embroidery and lurex stitching at the back pockets. The slim legs drop down with a straight ankle. Slight distressing accents the waist, pockets, and bottom hem. * 60% Ramie, 21% Cotton, 18% Polyester, 1% Spandex

Each item in this ensemble is selling at $15 from a store called the 15DollarStore of course. Orders above $100 carry free shipping, but if the total orders are less, here’s they still have a reasonable shipping rate tally.

The downside though? These sizes are for Junior sizes but they do have a few selections called Junior Plus.

For over ten years, Robeez has produced quality, and not to mention adorably stylish, baby shoes. Parents love their brand because of its soft sole function, which medical studies have proven to help in the development of a child’s healthy feet. Walking barefoot during babies first years promote development of stronger feet as it this helps with gripping and muscle strength. But as we know, their vulnerable feet must also be protected. The shoes allow for some freedom but it also prevents babies from getting injured.

Their shoes and boots can be worn with or without socks. The ankle band with an elastic strap keeps the shoe perfectly fitted. And then when needed, the shoes may also be washed and clean, just like you do regular laundry.

Robeez shoes are great for babies 0 to 4 years old. The company comes out with new designs every season and for Fall, here are their latest for both girls and boys:

ROBEEZ for GIRLS FALL 2008

ROBEEZ for BOYS FALL 2008

Robeez Soft Sole Features

• Secure - original elasticized ankle design has always assured that they stay on.
• Durable - only the highest quality leather for both comfort and durability.
• Washable - Quality leather also means they are machine washable.
• Comfortable - pioneered the category with soft, breathable leather that protects, and flexes with each step.
• Safe - shoes are pediatric endorsed and rigorously tested to meet the world’s most stringent safety standards.
• Skid-resistant - textured suede sole prevents slipping.

For online purchases, visit the Robeez website. Shipping is free if you buy two or more pair of shoes.

Stack up on your jeans this year, especially those who wear Junior sizes (school kids and petite ladies?). Kohl’s is having a 60% sale!

Shopping with cause-worthy consciousness and responsibility? I’m all for it! It sort of evens out my splurging on stuff. It’s paying back what is due the universe. Or at least that’s what I think.

These eco-friendly tops from Shebob are all made from sustainable materials. A portion of the profit goes to organizations supporting Green Living. Isn’t that great? Best of all, it’s priced at 50% off. Now, this is really shopping smartly!

Zooey ‘The Green Life’ Tee Support Healthy Child Healthy World with a soft tee made from organic materials. $2 from every sale will benefit the organization. ‘The Green Life’ lettering at front. Short sleeves. 24″ long, measured from center back. 100% organic cotton. Wash cold. Made in the U.S.A. Original Price: $82.00 White: $57.40 Sale Ocean: $41.00 Sale Get it here	Torn by Ronny Kobo Print Burnout Tee An inspired alternative to the standard-issue tee. Print jersey burnout tee with ribbed banding at crew neck. Short sleeves. Semi-sheer. 24″ long, measured from center back. 50% cotton/50% poly. Wash cold. Made in the U.S.A. Original Price: $73.00 Rose, White: $21.90 FINAL SALE* Get it here	Larsen Gray Flora Pleated Chiffon Blouse Fashion forward meets eco-friendly in this fabulous piece from Larsen Gray. Pleated chiffon top with braided banding at neckline. Sheer short sleeves. Lined. 20″ long, measured from center back. Self: 100% poly chiffon. Trim: 50% soybean/50% organic cotton. Dry clean. Made in N.Y.C. Original Price: $238.00 Black: $119.00 Sale Get it here

I have to say that I’m not good with using chopsticks. I can use them if I have to.  But I’m not exactly thrilled to be using them. And if given a choice, I’d stick with the fork and spoon.  There’s no need to embarrass myself.

I know not everyone is adept at using them. Although, I also have to say that there are times when I think that to be able to eat and enjoy an authentic Japanese or Chinese dish, one really has to use them.

But it’s good to know there is an option for people like me. I think this easy to handle chopsticks is a genius! And with its six assorted colors, using chopsticks is made so much more fun.

This one currently goes for $6.99 a pack at Pop Deluxe.

When I think of wearing classic, ultra chic ensembles, I always opt for a basic black or a black and white pair-up. Most of the time, you could never go wrong with it. Basic white and black ensembles are investments. At times you’re better off splurging on these, while some days you can spend under $30 for it. You just have to know where to look.

Here are a few pieces that offer two options for you. One is a designer piece that cost more than a regular budget. While the other is something you can get for a lot less.

Kate Spade’s Lover Sandals Evening sandal shows off slender straps that curve down the foot to highlight a ladylike satin bow. Approx. heel height: 3 1/2″. Satin upper/leather lining and sole. By kate spade; made in Italy. Salon Shoes. Price: $275.00 Where to get it: Nordtrom This sandals also comes in brown.	Mossimo’s Hannah Sling Back Heels Put Pizzazz in Your Party Outfit with these Slingback Strappy Sandals Featured in Rich Black Embellished with Bow Satin Upper with Thermoplastic Rubber Outsoles 3″ Wrapped Heel Features Slip On Styling Cushioned Insole for Long-Term Comfort, Tagless Footbed, Non-Skid Tread on Toe and Heel Price: $19.99 Where to Get: Target

The only difference? The straps and the one from Target has a shorter heel.

Nu Collective Chiffon Blouse Made of 100% Silk, Nu Collective Ivory Silk Chiffon Tie Blouse as seen on Nicky Hilton and Hayden Panettiere Price: $200 including shipping Where to get: Singer 22 This also comes in light pink.	Arden B Circle Neck Bow Tunic Bandeau tunic cami featuring circle scoop neckline with large side bow detail. Pleated bodice with piping deatail, keyhole back and banded bottom hem. Price: $68.00 Where to get: ArdenB

Nu Collective’s is made of silk while the blouse from ArdenB is of rayon/spandex.

Nordstrom Shoshanna Pleated Ruffle Shirtdress Sleeveless dress with crisp, blouse-like bodice features an architecturally pleated neckline and a high-waisted A-line skirt, shaped by an inverted pleats. Back zip with hook-and-eye closure. Approx. length from shoulder: 36″. Unlined. Cotton/Lycra® spandex; dry clean. By Shoshanna; made in the USA. Price: $288.00 Where to get: Nordstrom	Forever 21 Shift Collar Pencil Dress This minimal featured shift collar sleeveless dress is perfect for a simple and clean look. Features back and white colors with a bow tie detail at the front. Side zipper closure. 33″ approx length from shoulder to hem. 100% cotton. Hand wash. Imported. Price: $22.80 Where to get: Forever 21

The design is slightly different, as well as the use of material. But the style is basically the same classic shirtdress.

How much can you remember from your lessons in chemistry? If you’d look at periodic tables today, would you even recognize or remember how it’s read? I only know one or two — H20 and CO2 — and that’s about it. I imagine it’s the same for most people who aren’t exposed to things like this on a daily basis.

It’s a good thing I still don’t have a high school or college student living in the house. Or else I’d be a poor help. If you have one though, nothing can put your budding chemist right on track with this periodic table shower curtain. Imagine, if this is the one he’d see everyday, he’s got the table memorized and understood in no time! And without even trying!

Although, it may be perceived as nerdy, it’s still quite a colorful bathroom essential. For aesthetic reasons, I think it passes, too.

Frat houses, sororities and college dorms dwellers may also benefit from something like this, don’t you think?

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What’s your first aid kit like? Do you even keep a first aid kit at home?

Admittedly, mine doesn’t have the right supplies. I have an abundance of analgesic medicines in one can which I keep inside a side drawer. In it are also some band-aids (for cuts I do to myself while cooking, and that happens quite often actually!) and a stack of other medicines for common ailments. But that’s about it. I don’t have everything neatly organized, too. When I need something, I rummage through the can. Sometimes, it is really a waste of time when my finger is already bleeding profusely!

Klutz like me need something like this one, the Intelligent First Aid Kit.

Not only is everything properly labeled, color coded and neatly packed — the kit also TALKS!

It provides an easy to follow instruction and I think that’s really helpful when you’re already in a state of panic and you’ve forgotten how to go about basic first aid.

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I’ve been looking around for a good bag I can use everyday. My preference are tote bags where I can stuff all my junk and yet I still prefer a compact one so that I know where everything goes. I’m ruling out sophisticated designs and leather totes as much as possible since it doesn’t go with my laid back lifestyle. So, here’s what I’m liking so far…

L.A.M.B. ‘Aston - Winston’ Satchel
- Woven straps top a supple leather satchel accented with a tonal graphic print.

This bag speaks “me” for some reason. No-nonsense and reliable. It’s made of leather though, but it it’s not at all a dressy bag I’d have a hard time pairing with jeans, which is my everyday attire. There is a cellphone pocket inside, which makes it so accessible for me. The only hitch? I am not in the habit of spending for bag I think is too pricey at $725.00

Where to get: Nordstrom

Melanie Canvas Tote
- Oversized canvas clutch with satin finish hardware and snap button pockets. Faux leather trim tabs. Inside zipper and cell pocket.

Now this is right up my alley when there is a budget to consider as the bag costs under $30 only. It’s made of canvass, which I prefer over leather or even faux leather. I’m not so thrilled about the silver buckles though.

Where to get: Forever 21

Nine West Work It Tote
- Snap closure Zippered middle compartment in mystic ocean and brown color.

Maybe I should go with a little color than just basic black or earth tones? I kinda like this one, it’s a combination of two soothing, yummy colors that make me wanna bite into it or something. Price suits me fine too at $110. Only thing is…will this go with most of my everyday clothes?

Where to get: Piperline

These are just three choices I’m looking at but I’ve got plenty more styles and options to check. This is the stressful part to shopping — I can’t make a choice!