Mingle with Legendary Santa

The Christmas Mother in conjunction with the Children's Museum of Richmond will host a special event on Sunday, December 5th. For $2 you can mingle with the Legendary Santa and explore the regular exhibits from 5:30-8:00 PM. $1 of the cost of admission goes to the Christmas Mother.

(Side Note- Regular Admission is $8 for children over 1 and adults.)

All that Glitters

Thinking about adding a little pizazz to your holiday look? Using make up with a little glitter is an easy way to add more sparkle. Go easy on it though, accenting only one feature (like your eyes or lips). My personal favorite for eyes is a mix of Victoria's Secret cream eyeshadow gel and their sparkling powder shadow. To make it a little less intense, I go over it with a neutral shadow. They also make a subtle lip gloss with just enough shine for everyday use that's not too flashy.

Children's Museum

Are you a Bank of America account holder? If so, you can gain FREE entry to the Children's Museum of Richmond (both locations) the first weekend of the month (Saturdays 9:30-5:00 and Sundays 12-5:00). Just show your Bank of America card and your photo ID.

Making a List and Checking it Twice...

Santa has the right idea in terms of planning ahead. If you are attempting to score any major deals tomorrow, it would be a good idea on your part to plan ahead. Here are some tips for making the most of the biggest shopping day of the year.

- Scrutinize ads to compare prices. Some stores (like Wal-Mart) will match a competitor's price as long as you have the ad in print. Look for print coupons, too.

- Make a list of the stores you plan to visit and what you want to specifically look for when in that store. Jot down the sizes of your gift recipients (if you don't have them committed to memory, or if they might vary from store to store).

- Map out where you are going and when. Make note of stores that have special offers that expire at certain times (i.e.- 40% off the entire store until 8 AM) and be sure to prioritize.

-Bring any coupons with you!!

- Pack a snack and a bottled water... just in case you need it.

- Be patient and have a good attitude. Being in a rotten mood will not make a long line move any faster.

- Come home... and nap.... and delight in your savings!


Last year I ventured with my family to Williamsburg at the crack of dawn (really before dawn). The savings were too good to pass up. I came across a Lacoste dress that originally retailed for $95. When the discounts were applied... I got it for $14!! That's one of my all-time favorite deals! I hope that's the case this year as well.

Being Thankful

This time of year is an ideal time to stop and think about the things you are grateful for. Off and on since I was in high school, I've kept a "Thanks Journal". Everyday, I try to jot down 5 things that I am thankful for. They can be simple little things (like Rainbow Cookies or getting a new magazine in the mail) to more serious things (like having 200+ family and friends celebrating our wedding day with us and living in a country without religious persecution). I've accumulated many "Thanks Journals" over the years, and it's interesting to go back and look at them. It's interesting to go back and look at what has happened over the past few months. I don't always get to it everyday, so sometimes I'm writing a few days worth of things I've been thankful for. I like to pick journals that have fun covers and use a specific pen for it so that I stay motivated to use them. I encourage you to keep a "Thanks Journal". It's humbling and helps keep things in perspective. Even if you don't start a journal, at least take the time to think about the blessings that you have been given.

Happy Brushing

Reach makes these adorable toothbrushes with fancy patterns that make everyday brushing just a tad more chic!With so many patterns to choose from, it's a good thing you get to mix it up every few months!

BOGO at Starbucks!

Starting today (11/18) through 11/21, if you buy a holiday drink at Starbucks, you get one FREE! Note that it has to be between the hours of 2 and 5 pm. Spread some holiday (and frothy goodness) cheer!