Recent Posts
It's not all about the presents. It's time to give back.

It's not all about the presents. It's time to give back.

This time of year, it's asy enough to buy gifts for family and friends. But it's also time to think of others. 'Tis the season when you really should shop—for someone in need. Here are some sobering statistics: Almost one in six Americans live in poverty. The rate is higher for children; more than one in five live below the poverty line. [ More ]

Halloween is frightening for kids with nut allergies

Halloween is frightening for kids with nut allergies

Halloween can be a frightening time if you're like me—the parent of a kid with nut allergies. I wish I could cast a spell to make sure all the tempting goodies offered to my child are free of nuts. You want to know how serious I am? I got peanut butter on my scarf at work and was so scared to take it home I threw it away. [ More ]

Netflix prices rise today

Netflix prices rise today

D-day is here for Netflix customers. Sept. 1 is when the rate hike heard around the world goes into effect. The basic $9.99 per month plan for unlimited streaming and one DVD out at-a-time goes up to $7.99 a month for unlimited streaming and ANOTHER $7.99 a month for the DVD option. [ More ]

Did I do the right thing?

Did I do the right thing?

Here ShopSmart, we generally say that you shouldn't fall for those pitches to buy extended warranties. But when the 1-year warranty on my MacBook Pro laptop was about to expire, I started shaking and quaking. There was a lot to consider about my own situation and this laptop. [ More ]

The problem with Groupon ...

The problem with Groupon ...

I love online shopping, and I love deals. So when a friend introduced me to Groupon, I fell—HARD. It was great to have offers with seemingly big savings e-mailed to me every day. Just few quick clicks and I got myself a deal! But a couple of my recent purchases convinced me that Groupon may not always be that great. [ More ]

Nice dress, Kate, but what about those hats?

Nice dress, Kate, but what about those hats?

For me, the royal wedding was all about the dress. And I LOVED Kate Middleton’s gown by Sarah Burton of Alexander McQueen—gorgeous! As for the guests, David Beckham is the most handsome man alive on this planet. But those shoes Posh was wearing! How could any woman walk in them, let alone a pregnant lady? [ More ]

What do you do with that old bridesmaid dress?

What do you do with that old bridesmaid dress?

Spring is here, but is your closet clear of clutter? I've got an eyesore that may also be taking up space in your home—an old bridesmaid's dress (Sis, I hope you're not reading this). I really can't think of another occasion when I can wear a strapless coral gown. [ More ]