Resolutions

I heard this morning on TV that the top resolutions are always about money and health. And guess what? They top my list.

On the health front: eat better, exercise more, lose weight.

On the money front: be smarter about money, pay off debt, save more, plan for retirement.

I did some reading for this post and found that the top stories seem to be about how to make the resolutions stick. Most articles talked about being specific; being realistic and making a commitment to check back on the specific goals. With that in mind... I need to add more specificity to my resolutions: add a vegetable or legume to four dinner meals each week; walk on Monday, Wednesday, Saturday and Sunday afternoons; create a meal plan geared to losing 1.5 pounds per week; research before making purchases and find ways to save money before each purchase (that is after truly defining the need for the purchase); add x dollars to my monthly car payment each month to pay it off 1 year early; automatically deduct x dollars from my checking account on the 20th of each month and send percentages of that money to both my retirement fund and my savings account. You get the idea...

Phew... that feels more concrete.

But the best story I found was on adding your resolutions to the confetti streamers released in Time Square on New Year's Eve. Talk about commitment. (Most of the stories I read did mention writing the resolutions down and sharing them with friends and family. This idea takes that to a whole new level.)

All you have to do is visit the Times Square Information Center and add your resolutions to the Wishing Wall. Those resolutions will be added to the confetti pieces that are set adrift at the midnight ball drop. Find the Times Square Information Center at 1560 Broadway (between 46th and 47th Streets). If you are not in NYC, add your resolution online at the Wishing Wall site.

Happy New Year! And best of luck with those resolutions!

-reenie

White Christmas?

It's Christmas Eve day, and that age-old question is on your mind: will we have a white Christmas at our house? How about at Aunt Norma's house? It all depends on where you and Aunt Norma live. See below for the National Climatic Data Center's statewide map showing snow probability for Christmas (based on data accumulated between 1961-1990). Here's hoping you get your Christmas wish -- whatever that might be.

Merry, merry, one and all.

-reenie

No Peeking...no, really, no peeking!

My goodness... it's almost here. I'm hoping all of your gifts have been purchased or you're here to do some last minute shopping (and save money at the same time - BONUS!).

The final step is wrapping. Now the job I usually consider kind of a hassle can be extra fun....

Have you seen these new ideas from Hallmark? I think these are a hoot and will bring a ton of smiles and laughter to your holiday celebration. These new "Peek Busters" bags feature motion-activated sensors that use sound to let the "peeker" know they've been caught in the act of looking-where-they-shouldn't. Boy, I can picture that caught-in-the-act face as I type this. Yes, child, I'm talking about you!

-reenie

Experiential gifts

So, you have a friend or family member that is on an un-cluttering binge... "no more stuff," they say. BUT you want to treat them with a gift. If 'stuff' is off the table, consider experiential gifts. These gifts may create happy memories that last a lifetime, and what more can you ask of a gift?

Sporty Ideas

Four!! How about a golf club membership or golf lessons? If your gift recipient is more into giggles than golf-whispers, think mini-golf.

Tickets to a Professional Sports game or a College game. If you have an avid fan in your midst... a ticket to a favorite team's home game might bring on the cheers.

An afternoon of horseback riding, or a series of lessons for the budding equestrian.

A day of kayaking or time in a canoe at a favorite nearby body of water.

Rock climbing-gym gift certificates. A great way to get that climbing bug under control when the weather is too cold for outdoor adventures.

Sky diving lessons. Not for me... that whole being-up-high thing, but I've known folks who use a sky diving lesson as a way to mark a big lifetime milestone. Me? I like my feet on the ground, and there are indoor options available for folks like me (and children).

Family Fun

Amusement park passes. Enough said. These would make anyone feel like a kid again.

Children's Museum passes. Imagine the year-long of fun a family could have if you bought them an annual membership.

Travel

Do you live near the water? How about a gift certificate for an afternoon cruise? If you don't live near the water -- how about a 2-3 day cruise?

Weekend away at a Bed and Breakfast or cozy Inn. Talk about a romantic gift... yes, please, let's talk about it!

How about planning a winery tour?

Learning is Fun

How about cooking classes for the budding chef?

Knitting classes or sewing classes at a local shop.

Computer training for someone new to the laptop scene or someone looking to improve current skills.

Fun and Relaxation

Can we say spa day? Amusement Park for stressed-out grown-ups. Bring it on!

Movie and dinner passes. Can't go wrong. Throw in free babysitting if giving to a friend with small children. Talk about being a hero!

And save even more money when you find local gift certificates at a discounted price... nothin' better.

-reenie

Gifts for him

I am a self-realized Geek. I admit it. Working on this list has made me near giddy. SO many fun gadgets -- I had to scale myself down a notch just to be able to include some non-gadget ideas.

This first idea could work for all ages of "him." And I know it would make me giggle with delight on Christmas morning. How about a pair of the Eyeclops Night Vision Goggles? The possibilities are endless!

Or... hold onto your steering wheel.... how about the Knight Rider GPS by Mio. No, I'm not kidding. Yes indeedy -- this one comes complete with Kitt's voice and some red lights to make you feel like Knight Rider (makes the near-new Australian-accented guy on my portable model almost worth trading in).

The Moshi IVR alarm clock takes waking up on time to new levels of fun. I mean waking up in the morning to go to work can be a little tiresome, but what if you can tell your alarm clock what to do? (No. I don't mean that!) This model allows you to set the time and alarm time via voice command. It will also answer you when you ask it what time it is or what the room temperature happens to be. Forget being 'for him' -- I want one of these!

Now this next item would make a great stocking stuffer - because you'd want to be sure it was available before any other packages come along. Or attach it to a gift that really needs it. The Zibra Open It! does just that, and more. As the materials say... this little beauty cures "Wrap Rage." The Open It! easily opens clamshells, toy packaging, boxes, CDs, DVDs, battery compartments and more.

For the traveler in your life consider the Belkin FlyThru for easy movement through the security line. This TSA-approved laptop bag allows you to keep your laptop in the bag. How? FlyThru isolates your laptop on one side, allowing security agents to easily identify it through a clear window. All you have to do is unzip it and lay it flat on the screening belt. It's that easy. Goodbye security-line-stress on that next business trip.

Cue the Monty Python soundtrack... "I'm a Lumberjack, and that's OK." And so are these great "The Screens Gone Plaid" boxer briefs from Paul Frank. These just scream winter and holidays in one fell swoop.

That's all for now. This list could keep on going, but these should give you some great ideas. Right? Yes? I thought so.

-reenie

Co-worker gifts

This category is hard. Depending on the size of your work environment -- this could be a huge commitment. I think it's great to come up with a theme that you can duplicate -- there is no shame in giving the same trinket to multiple co-workers -- and you can mix it up within the theme (this will make more sense as you keep reading). One word of advice: if you have a close relationship with one or two of your co-workers, and you want to do something more for them than for others in your office, do it 'offline' (AKA: away from the office).

This list may feel random... but it's long to give you plenty of options.








Stuff connected to work

• How about a cool calendar? This is where theme could be fun... calendar for each person, but each different to match the personality.
• Fun mouse pad. Get something pre-made or consider customizing. Many local stores offer this option.
• Hot new business book on a subject they really enjoy or use in their job (here's to hoping it fits both categories!!).
• Gift cards for local coffee establishments or lunch spots.

Gifts for home

• A fun bottle of wine. If you are feeling especially creative, some companies allow you to customize wine labels.
  
• Hand-crafted soap or hand cream. Can't go wrong with a holiday scent.
• Lovely jar of jam (see this in hostess gifts, too). I love getting jams, mustards and other goodies I don't usually splurge on for myself. Extra points if they are locally made.
• Homemade goodies in beautiful (re-usable) containers. I make a mean batch of chocolate/craisin/peanut candy. Of course, I make an extra batch for my own house.
• A magazine subscription. I've noticed lots of bo-go ("buy one-get one") deals this year.
• A handcrafted ornament. Again on that theme idea. (You can get multiples of a type, but all can be slightly different.)

One final idea... maybe forgo a gift altogether and make a donation to a local charity, school or school sports team, local arts organization or park in the name of your department.

Enjoy this special month.

-reenie

Gifts for HER!

Okay... this post is for those needing to buy a gift for a loved one (or not so loved one, but important, nonetheless) of the female persuasion.
This list is sort of rambling. I've tried for the last few months to keep my eyes on some new products -- to add to the regular line-up of great ideas to get you through this very delicate process.

Pampering
Did I hear someone say spa, or for the more budget conscious -- how about manicure or pedicure? I love nothing more than having a few moments of personal pampering, and as I try to streamline my life, this is one experiential gift that makes my body forever grateful; not to mention my nail beds.

Keeping Warm
OK... a new coat would be dandy, but if that's not in your budget... how about a lovely merino wool wrap. It's the kind of gift that screams "hug" during the cold winter (especially if her office happens to be cold or she finds herself on lots of chilly airplanes). There's a great company in Maine that creates gorgeous scarves and wraps (Swans Island Blankets), but my guess is that there are plenty of local companies offering luxurious options as well.

Personal Beauty
I've been hearing great things about MAC Pro Eye Makeup remover. No kidding. Apparently it's all the rage with models because the cucumber extract spares your skin the irritation that some removers cause. Could be a great addition to a Christmas stocking (I mean Santa might need a little help, right??).

Making Memories
A nod to the Geek in me. I LOVE the Flip Video camera. It's super intuitive, and what a great gift around holiday time. You'll be recording those festive morning moments in no time.

Yummy Treats
On a recent trip to the left coast (also known as California)... I stumbled upon salt-topped chocolate caramels. Who knew salt and chocolate together could really work?? I've already sent them as gifts to family and friends.

Oh, and Stonewall Kitchen products can make even the most novice cook seem like a world-class chef. Pair a great sauce with some beautiful kitchen accessories and lovely linen kitchen towels, and, voila, you've made that budding cook feel 'specialista.'

A Fool for Traveling
I love to travel, and I'm a sucker for a great bag (be it carry-on or check-able size). If the woman in your life is doing a fair amount or travel -- make her day easier with a bag that fits her travel needs (think laptop carriers and where they are located on that carry-on piece; being slowed down in security fighting with your bag to release your laptop can be a a real drag). How about adding a monogram or something else that helps her easily identify said new luggage in a sea of black bags...

The Sweet Scent of the Holidays
Perfume. You can't go wrong with perfume. Enough said.

Bright and shiny
There's always jewelry, but as my daughter has reminded me more than once, you can go wrong with the wrong jewelry. If you don't know her taste -- don't guess. It's that simple. Tackle this category with some trepidation, but if you know her style -- you really could make her day! Better still, if she has a favorite local jeweler stop by and see if she has left any not-so-subtle hints with her fave sales reps.

Happy gift hunting!

-reenie

Shopping safely online

If you’ve not shopped online before it might feel like a scary experience. But there are some steps you can take to feel better about your next online shopping trip.

Know Who The Seller Is
If I’m ordering from a new company…I try to check out reviews or search for any news stories about their reputation. I also like to know their physical address and phone number.

Using a credit card makes it safer
When you use your credit card to pay you have the legal right to dispute charges made to your card. This applies to items that have not been received or misrepresented, but also works for charges you did not authorize in the first place (the main reason checking your statement every month is so important).

Single-use and substitute credit card numbers
Check if your credit card company offers single-use or substitute card numbers meant specifically for online shopping. It allows you to use your credit card without exposing your real account number online. Not all credit card issuers offer this option, but it’s worth checking out if it will give you more peace of mind.

Keep good records
It’s always a good idea to print out or save a digital copy of your online order receipt. Make sure all of the information you need is on the page. I keep a special folder in my email program for online shopping and keep any emailed receipts in that folder until my transaction is complete, in addition to making digital copies of the receipts I see during the online order process.

The devil is in the details
Before you click that final “Submit Order” button, make sure you check all of the details. Check that the item description, know the delivery charge, the total cost, the delivery timeline, the return and refund policy and how customer service works.

Security checks
When you are on a retail page where you need to provide payment information make sure the address line changes from an “http” to a “https” or “shttp.” The addition of that “s” lets you know that the page is secure. Understand, too, how the seller will safeguard your personal information during the sale and after. Most sites have a link to that information. If you don’t see one…contact the seller for more information.

Happy, and safe shopping!

-reenie

Cool Hostess Gifts

I have a few holiday parties to attend between now and mid-January. I'm always on the lookout for interesting hostess gifts (and these gifts can apply to some other people on your holiday list, too).

Candles
Can't go wrong with a candle. But I think a locally-made one is even more special. Check your community for artisans making hand-crafted candles.

Candies
How about a lovely box of chocolates from a local candy maker.

Jams, jellies and other specialty food items
These are the kinds of things I never buy for myself..or, at least, feel guilty when I do. I love having a special jam in my fridge for the holidays...makes Christmas morning toast even more fun. Or a special mustard dresses up sandwiches made with holiday meal leftovers.

Spices
Another one of those items that feels like a personal indulgence. What about a basket or a tea towel holding 3-4 tins of beautifully-fresh spices from a local spice company. Some of my spice jars could date back to just-out-of-college which, trust me, makes them way too old!

Travel ideas
If you have a special connection to your host, and know travel is in their immediate future...what about some travel guides for their Spring vacation destination.

Hand lotion or dishwashing soap
How about a lovely scented dishwashing soap - maybe even something from the more-green category. Also - this time of year...hands get dry and chapped, especially if you are the hostess and doing lots of prep work. Pamper them with a luxurious hand cream. Wrap them in a pretty holiday dish towel to keep with the theme.

Toast them well
Wine or champagne is always a lovely gift, and I think a handwritten note on the bottle makes the gift even more special. Your hosts will know who to raise their glass to -- after the party is over. Don't forget great coffees and teas, too. These beverages make lovely gifts as well. I also love cute cocktail napkins -- consider including with your special bottle.

A word about flowers...
They are beautiful and a beautiful hostess gift, but I recommend sending them ahead of the party so your hostess doesn't have to drop everything and arrange a bouquet when you arrive. Send them the day before, and you can save your host/hostess a decorating task the day of the party.

Happy, happy holiday parties to you!

-reenie

Save some cash...save the planet

I started decorating my house the day after turkey day. I've been like a little kid waiting to do it. The lights just make me happy....what can I say?


Speaking of lights...think about picking up new LED lights for your home-decorating needs. LED bulbs use a fraction of the wattage of regular old-holiday bulbs and they last longer too! Many retailers offer special savings on these holiday must-haves.


Consider using old newspapers and magazines for wrapping some gifts. Save the special wrapping for those extra-special gifts. Wrap just three presents with your own recycled paper and help make a big impact on the environment. Better yet…get complementary gifts to hold other gifts…think oven mitt for new kitchen utensils, or a beautiful jewelry box for new earrings.

Use natural, found-in-nature accessories to dress up packages…like a fir tree bough or a sprig of holly (just be sure to only use if pets and small children can’t get near them). Saves on tossed ribbon. Again, some packages will always need ribbon to feel special, but mix it up and have fun and help the environment at the same time.

Consider cutting down on clutter, and buy “experience-gifts” instead of things. How about a family four-pack to an indoor amusement center or a family membership to the local Children’s Museum? Does someone special in your life love to golf…how about a golf membership at your local course?

Make the world wide web your best savings-tool. Comparison shop online and make sure to check for bargains on various saver sites. Always make sure you factor in shipping and handling costs if you buy online.

Buy local when you can. Saves transportation fees and packaging. Even better –- save when you use local merchant savings offers through this site.

-reenie