some of my favorite places to shop

If you shop online, you really should join eBates. I have been a member since the early days and have earned back over $500. Most stores give back only 2 or 3 percent, but that adds up. And you only need to earn $5 to have a check sent to you. If you are going to buy it anyway, why not save? Plus it is always fun to get a check in the mail. The stores (and discounts) change, but here are a few that I have earned money back from: Nordstrom, Smith & Hawken, Lands End, Apple, Cooking.com, The Gap, Eddie Bauer, Maryland Square, Kiehls, Dean & Deluca, Expedia, Uncommon Goods, Martha Stewart Flowers, and more. To sign up and get $10 (after your first purchase), use this link^*.

Now on with the show:

See Jane Work: This store has one retail location in Thousand Oaks, California. But if you can't make it out there, you can always shop online (which is how they started to begin with). They sell brands from Bob's Your Uncle to Kate Spade. It's all about making your work life more fun. It's a great place to find everything from a cool laptop bag to pencils that make figuring out your budget less stressful. ***BONUS*** limited time enter code DEAL25 at checkout and save 25% off your total order.

Danskin: There are few little girls who didn't grow up with Danskin. They are celebrating their 125th anniversary, after all. But they sell more than tutus and tights. They also have exercise equipment and clothes that will take you beyond the gym. Their online store gives you more options and usually they can get your size (if it isn't already in stock). Sign up for their newsletter to take advantage of special savings. ***bonus - they are also part of eBates***

Books of Wonder: If I lived in NYC, I fear this would be my second home. This bookstore has been around for years and as such is able to get lots children's books authors to visit. The good news is that if you aren't in the Big Apple, you can order books on line (or by phone). They even sell autographed books (although not personalized). Of course it is never as fun as meeting the author in person, but they do make nice gifts or additions to your own library. The easiest way to browse is to click on new books and then select the current catalog.

garnet hill: Another store that started as a catalog and moved online. They sell some of the most beautiful sheets made from natural fibers. They have been around for years and were green long before it was the 'in thing'. Additionally around this time of year their buyers usually find some clever gift ideas for kids and grown ups. This is also one of the few places I know that sells Hanro under garments. Oh, and they also sell women's clothing and accessories, kids clothing, and a limited selection of furniture and men's clothing.

MOMA: This is the store of the Museum of Modern Art in New York. They usually have quirky and fun and sometimes even practical things that make great gifts (or additions to your home). The best part is that you are also helping to support art.

Giggle: This store is geared for the under four crowd. They have retail stores in California and New York, but again, shopping online works too. Their philosophy is to seek out items that grow to meet the needs of a child. Some things are pricey, but the idea is that they will last more than three months. They sell everything from bibs to Bugaboos. Each item is rated for being Basic, Healthy, Space Saving, Responsible, Innovative, Good Value, Easy, Portable, Multi-Stage, and Tested.



on the night stand :: The Homework Myth

^*I'll get $10 too. But you can refer friends as well.