October 2008 Archives

I tend not to be too political on the internet. Aside from a few snarky Twitter comments and following news sites, I usually keep my politics and my PC far apart from each other. This weekend, however, I have to make a little public service announcements.

I am not going to try to sway you one way or another on any of the races. I'm not even going to say who I endorse, because I believe that's between myself and my ballot. Either way, the most important thing you can do, regardless of your party affiliation or your personal political beliefs is to read up on the issues. I realize the voter's guides are daunting. I realize that you probably think you have a hundred things better to be doing, but when it all boils down to it, being an informed is about the most important thing you can do with your time. So instead of trying to tell you where to find products that will change your life, or how to save a bunch of money on the things you love, I am simply going to ask that you put aside a little time this weekend and be sure that you make an informed choice. I know I don't have to tell any of you how important this election is, and I'm sure you're probably tired of hearing about it, but I promise, this will be my first and last blog about elections this year.

Best of all, the voter pamphlet is free, and it doesn't cost you anything to read up.  With all the money you save, you can afford to buy yourself a cup of coffee (or tea, or hot chocolate - your call) to make the experience of reading all that double talk a little more enjoyable.

And remember....

Being that today is Halloween and the whole world (including the Ebates office) is dressing up as their favorite characters and overdosing on candy, I can't help but think of one of my favorite characters...Sandra D from Grease. Not the wholesome goody two shoes "Sandy", but the liberated, clothed in leather "Sandra". Her look was sexy, chic, and dangerous all rolled up into one. What I love most about her outfit is the way she paired jet black leggings with a shrunken but tough leather jacket. The look is a hybrid of Bob Fosse meets Sara Connor from the Terminator, and nothing short of amazing. I began my search for the perfect leather jacket in some of my favorite vintage stores, yet only managed to find jackets sporting huge shoulder pads a la the 1980's or massive amounts of fringe a la the 1970's. My next resort was to check out some out my favorite sites such as eLUXURY, Shopbop, Bluefly, and Tobi.

While browsing around Tobi, I came across this dead ringer by uber cool leather company  S.W.O.R.D. Not only do they hold the title for the best company name ever, but they also hold the title for the best leather jackets. This one known as the Modena Jacket (right) screams motorcycle mama and is so authentic, you'd think it walked straight out of The Wild One . (left) It features a belted waist and lots of tough hardware such as exposed zippers, but retains femininity with the fitted cut. At Tobi I earned 5% cash back ($45)! Think of this jacket as not just a great piece, but as an investment. After all, this classic motorcycle jacket will never go out of style, and will only look better as it ages. This jacket is so hot, that it's deserves a spot on the "Do Not Let Best Friend Borrow" list.

When it comes to leggings I had to enlist the help of my fellow fashionista Poppy, who knows everything there is to know about leggings...literally. She recommended these rock and roll latex leggings by Alice and Olivia. Made from nylon and spandex they hug in all the right places, create a slim figure, and are ultra chic to boot. I envision wearing these out on the town and grabbing the best dressed spot, which, living in San Francisco, is not easy to do. While they look great with flats, or any shoe for that matter, a sky-high heel puts them over the top. If you're thinking these are too crazy for everyday wear, fret not. These can be extremely versatile, and look great paired with an oversized sweater or button down shirt. By shopping with Ebates you'll receive 3% cash back. The next time your bf comments on your great finds just say "Tell me about it..stud".

In today's digital age, there's no such thing as too much portable memory. Whether you're looking to cram every last picture you've taken in the last seven years onto a memory card, or just looking to transport a few movies from place to place, it's always nice to have a good SD card on hand for whatever comes along your way. With today's ridiculously cheap prices on SD cards, there's no reason not to upgrade your camera with more portable memory; making this super sweet free shipping deal from Newegg a snag that none should over look.

It wasn't long ago that the price of flash media actually dropped below physical film (regardless of whether or not you actually reused the memory cards in question). In their infancy, XD cards, SD cards, Sony MemorySticks, and other memory cards were unspeakably expensive for their size. I remember paying over $40 for my spacious 1GB memory card just a few years ago, and today's deal blows it out of the water faster than a ticked off Killer Whale. Oh, how things have changed! Today you can grab a Kingston 4GB SD Memory card for only $6.99 from Newegg , which includes free shipping and 2% cash back! 4 GB of space will comfortably hold thousands of high-quality digital images, and yet it'll only set you back as much as a couple rolls of film. Why not?

At this price, you can even think of the Kingston 4GB SD Card as a cheap backup alternative to DVDs, CDs, and other removable media that can be scratched or easily broken. Paired up with a cheap SD card reader (or the one included on most laptops), this 4GB works just as great as any other flash drive for transporting documents, music, videos, and just about any other form of data. It'll even makes a speedy hard drive expansion for your solid state-equipped Netbook in a pinch! Even if you just use it for a projectile to be tossed at coworkers, you simply can't beat such a sweet Free Shipping Friday deal.

As I promised a week or two back, there are literally hundreds of Free Shipping offers that will be expiring this weekend, and it would be far too daunting a task to even try to highlight them for you, let alone list them all, so, as usual, click on our pal Max Cash or on the Free Shipping Van to get sent directly to a list of Free Shipping Coupons sorted by expiration date. Enjoy!

Sometimes I wonder, with all the developing technology, if popular culture has turned into some freakish Sci-Fi movie that scared teenagers sitting in basements fifty years ago. What spawned this new outburst of thoughts? Easy: the advent of oscillating mascaras introduced by Lancôme and Estee Lauder. They look exactly like traditional mascaras with an average container, but have motors causing the wand to vibrate for a better, more thorough, and clump-free application.

According to Lancôme, the result of the vibrating mascara wand are lashes that are "extended, separated and visibly multiplies", okay, you are slowly convincing me. Although the thought of a motorized device that close to my eye (especially with my lack-of-precision) actually frightened me. At least it did, but that was before I saw the demonstration video at Lancôme.com and realized how slight the vibrations actually are; so slight that I probably do not need to worry about inflicting injury. Also, you must hold down the power button as you apply, for added safety. The Lancôme Oscillation Power Mascara boasts 7,000 oscillations per minute! That is some high-tech beauty! This product sells for $34 at Lancome.com with 6% cash back. Also, you receive a complimentary gift and free shipping; just enter code POWERMASCARA at checkout! I think it is definitely worth a try, if not just to weigh in you opinion on the matter and get a great free gift to boot!

If you are more of an Estee Lauder person, don't despair. They have launched ' Turbolash' All Effects Motion Mascara. Turbolash promises volume, length, curl, and separation all with one stroke of the trademarked and patent-pending LashSonic brush. This product was the first vibrating wand mascara, and it sells for $32 at Nordstrom with 3% cash back.

So the world of technology continues, taking with it a beauty staple like mascara. While I do enjoy the novelty of a vibrating mascara, and think its a fun addition to the makeup bag, I'm still a fan of my Givenchy Phenomenon eyes, as the ball applicator is enough tech for me.

Let's be honest with each other for a moment....Do I even need to tell you how great Bluefly is? The vast selection of designer goods, the way-below-designer prices, the constant sales. I mean is there really anything else to say about this daily shopping destination? Personally I don't think so, but if you're not convinced, if you're not foaming at the mouth right now, well then maybe I'll indulge you.... just a tad. I shop there so often that the title of this blog should be.."Allie went to Bluefly again, and bought something else she couldn't live without." Yes that's a great title, although far too long, and my fellow blogger Bill has the task of making sure my writing makes sense and my words are spelled correctly. Tough task for him, since I am the world's worst speller.

But I digress...

Today during my daily Bluefly shopping, I came across these charming Kate Spade loafers while searching for my moccasin replacement. The leather on my favorite shoes of all time has worn through, and with the rainy season (aka San Francisco Winter) coming, I needed a pair that were just as laid back and rustic, yet still had their sole intact. I like the "I just spent the weekend at my country house" vibe of these shoes, and, after all, if you can't get to the country, then you might as well look like you can. They're just $135, or 40% off the retail, making them not just a stylish addition to my wardrobe, but a cheap one at that. Now that I can get 6% cash back, there's no reason for me not to get them, and I eagerly await their arrival in the mail. I wish everyday could be a Daily Double at Bluefly, but sadly this isn't a perfect world. But is was a perfect day.

It's a rainy afternoon here in San Francisco, the first of the season, really. If there's one thing that the rain makes me want to do, besides stay in bed, is stay inside and watch TV all day. There's one problem with that these days (besides the whole being employed thing) and that is my opinion that there is nothing good to watch on regular network television these days.  Sure, there are some entertaining shows on in the evenings, but if it's before six o'clock, and you don't want to watch the news or talk shows, you're pretty much out of luck.

Don't give up hope... there is an easy solution - TimeLife.com! Most of you mainly know Time Life for their music collections, which are amazing. I can't express well enough how well these folks manage to assemble box sets of music that so accurately represent eras, genres, or artists' careers. They especially appeal to compulsive music hoarders like myself, who can't pass up the chance to own original archive recordings from bands in a ten-disc set.


But what most people don't realize is the vast collection of TV series box sets offered by Time Life. I have seen commercials for their box sets of older shows like the The Smothers Brothers or Get Smart, but I had no idea that they also had a handful of modern shows including personal favorites like Undeclared and Freaks and Geeks.

Not only are all these shows at already low prices, they all come with 6% cash back and a whole slew of coupons. That means you can get all 147 episodes of the cartoon The Real Ghostbusters with 6% cash back and free shipping, so stay in, make some popcorn, and take your TV (or stereo) for a trip down memory lane for a whole lot less with TimeLife.com.

When shopping for a laptop, processor speed, hard drive space, RAM, and graphics cards are all important things that should factor into any purchase. What's often overlooked, however, is style. For instance, how well does your laptop fit into most Star Wars scenes starring C3P0 or set in Lando Calrissian's cloud palace of Bespin? If your answer is "not very well", and you value both performance, price, and kitsch, there should be nothing stopping you from picking up Asus's blingin' new laptop.

As a computer that stands out for it's distinctive copper and black stylings, some may be surprised to hear how much power is under its futuristic hood. At a special $699 for 4GB ram, a speedy 250GB SATA hard drive, and a dedicated Nvidia 9300 graphics card, this laptop is one of the best bangs for the buck out there. It even includes a HDMI port for high definition gaming and movies, and an eSATA port for super-fast file transfers between your computer and any external hard drive that supports it. All of these little bonuses are usually found in computers with double the price tag found here, so budget-minded gamers, movie watchers, and multitaskers should snag up this snappy deal before Best Buy takes it off its $150 special. A simple search of "Asus Copper Laptop" will net you this penny-colored beauty, but that's not all we have in store for you today. No, today we have a double deal!

Even though I'm the resident tech master, it's always important to toss in a bit of style to counteract all of the circuitry underlying my posts. A well-rounded man must always be dabbling in something new, and that's why I present to you these matching Y-3 Low-Top Boxing Sneakers from eLuxury. Designed with both the ring and the fashion-forward Star Wars fanatic in mind, these shoes feature a timeless Olympian style that has been retrofitted for the everyday denizens of a galaxy far, far away. On top of their impeccable style, these Y-3 sneakers feature padded insoles and a leather/suede lining that are sure to remain comfortable for ages to come. Normally $250, the Y-3's are even on sale for $175 - a small price to pay for a style that is both timeless and out of this world.

Whichever option you choose, know that your great deal is made even sweeter with over $10 in combined cash back savings. Act fast, before these intergalactic specials become grand legends of yore in galaxies far, far away.

In the world of design there are two main categories: furniture and clothing. While "clothing people" can like furniture, and "furniture people" can like clothing, everyone fits into just one category. For me, that category is clothing, for several reasons. The main reason being the visibility factor. The ADAM sweater I purchased at Shopbop can be worn for the world to see as often as I like, however the vintage dresser from my local thrift store is only seen by myself unless I have company over. Suffice it to say, that rarely happens as I don't enjoy cooking for myself and would rather enjoy a meal with friends which I paid someone $14.99 to cook.

Having concentrated on my personal exterior for so long, the interior of my apartment went neglected, with mismatched furniture, bizarre junkyard finds, and a plethora of Ikea chatchke's. For those of you not familiar with Yiddish, chatchke means "miscellaneous crap", and my house was full of it.
                                                                                                                                                      
Just as changing your wardrobe can change your life, so can changing the interiors of your house. A cluttered house leads to a cluttered mind, so it's with this mentality that I focused on making my house as exciting as the Michael Kors boots I want to purchase. After all, both furniture and clothing are about creating a fantasy through the use of objects, so I racked my brain to think of what it is I want to come home to. I quickly realized that I just want a home in which I can relax and be content (besides a home with George Clooney). Ideally, this would be a home filled with nature such as plants, wood, even metal. Although it may sound like I am describing the interiors of an Indiana Jones movie, I'm actually talking about Danish Modern, a design movement that originated in the 60's and is famous for it's modernity and rustic appeal. The above bedroom set is from HomeDecorators.com, and is named the Audra Collection. 18 pieces in all, the Audra Collection has everything from office furniture to armoires, coffee tables, even mirrors. The beauty and convenience of HomeDecorators.com is the ability to buy not just individual items, but entire sets at a discounted price. This bedroom set includes 6 pieces and is only $2499! Consider the fact that most retailers sell a single bed for that price, and your savings add up.
Besides modern furniture, Home Decorators has furniture to suit anyone's taste whether you like Shabby Chic, Classic American, French Country, or Asian inspired. By shopping with Ebates, you'll receive 3% cash back, which adds up quickly when buying furniture. If home is where the heart is, then cohesive design is like chicken soup for the soul. Of course with Ebates, chicken soup gives you cash in your pocket.

In the world of fashion there are items that are considered eternally chic such as the little black dress, or a crisp white button down shirt. These are pieces that can be worn every year, every decade, and for almost every occasion. The opposite of these items are fad pieces, or items that are hot one minute, and cold the next. These items can frequently be seen on top ten lists, or the do's and dont's section of any fashion magazine. Two of these hit-or-miss pieces are the bell bottom jean and the clog. Ten years ago the clog was not only cool, but it was everywhere, in magazines, on the streets, and in the movies. After a brief stint it became passe and went into hiding until it recently reared it's head in fashion magazines such as Lucky. I got rid of my clogs, as did most people I know, yet my mother has stayed true, donning her clogs no matter what the trend. I would always chalk this up to her being a descendant of the 1970's, a time of flannel shirts, bell bottom jeans, and AC/DC. Her closet has proven great for vintage saddle bags, or paisley print tunics, yet I could never bring myself to "borrow" a pair of her clogs. It's not that I stopped loving the ease with which they slipped off, or the thick leather of which they were made, it's just that, well, I didn't want to look out of fashion. Being older now, and having a firmer grasp on what works or what doesn't work for that matter, I find myself once again looking at the clog.

Being out of the clog game, I noticed there have been several orthopedic changes to the clog. No longer just for hippies or Drew Barrymore wannabes, today even nurses and doctors can be seen wearing them alongside their Spongebob Square Pants scrubs. Although I am thrilled the medical profession has seen an upgrade in fashion, needless to say this look is not for me. I want a clog that is a bit biker, a bit rocker. Something that says "I'm with the band", sans the screaming fans, platinum records, and giant tour bus. This pair from BootBarn is made by Harley Davidson, aka the king of cool. It's on sale for just $65 making it an affordable addition to my shoe collection, which is almost an oxymoron unto itself. Keeping in mind the rocker chic look, I would pair these clogs with skinny jeans and a white t-shirt. Keeping in mind the saving money look, I'll receive 5% cash back. Either way I win, and look great doing so.

I had never heard of Smart Bargains before god smiled down upon me and I started working for Ebates. I stumbled upon the store and did not think much of it until I clicked through some of the categories and saw many brand name and designer items for astonishingly low prices. Plus, they have a ton of different categories from diamond jewelry deals to luggage, its like your favorite department store having a spectacular sale every day! I was also pleased to see that they provide 4% cash back, which, I think is a very honest and respectable percentage. However, courtesy of the Ebates Daily Double, Smart Bargains is offering 8% cash back today only! This pretty much makes me feel like I have the green light to do some serious shopping.

These Pave Diamond studs are a perfect example of a fantastic Smart Bargains deal, as they are selling for an amazing 66% off and now just $99! That is a savings of over $200! Huge savings like that are commonplace for Smart Bargains; expect a large percentage off and unbelievably low prices on great items...

Shop on!

So last week when I wrote about GoGoods.com, I let you in a bit on my protocol for the selection of sites to be featured in this segment. I also made a relatively important statement -- that I generally tend to warm up to the merchants I feature. This week, I just have to mention this site because I find it mildly ridiculous, but it might appeal to some of you folks with smaller children. I fully acknowledge that being a completely unattached and childless male in my late twenties, I tend to roll my eyes at sentimental child-centric products, but this one might just go another step.

As is evident from even the most cursory glance at MyTwinn.com, they make dolls to exact specifications to resemble your daughter, hence the "twin" part of the site. I will say, I can kind of understand this. It would definitely make a lasting memory for both children and parents for years to come. Their process is really quite precise, and they even request a picture of your child to make sure that the doll's look is as close as possible to the real-life child. I applaud them for that, and I think in that area of their business, they do a very good job. They also do a good job of keeping the price down - each of these are hand-crafted customized dolls with specific skin tones and an array of hair colors that cost about $150.

Here is where I have issues: they sell matching clothes. They have crossed the border from "find doll clothes to put on the doll that resemble your child's clothes" to the bizarre territory of "buy clothes for your child to match her doll's clothes. Yes, it makes for a great photo op, and it is a great way to offer a chance for return shoppers to come back and update the look, at least as far as clothing is concerned.

So, whether you love them or you hate them, give it a look. If like me, you roll your eyes at this site, go through and have a laugh. Or, if you have the sentimentality that I lack, take a gander - it looks like a good quality product for the price you pay, and you do get 4% cash back on any and all products purchased from them, whether it be a doll or a matching outfit.

Luckily, it doesn't matter to me that they don't make boy dolls at the moment... I've already had my own custom-designed action figure made to look like me :
                                       

As wonderful as the holiday season is, it's also a time of amateur decorating and tacky ornamentation... everywhere. The picture to my left is a great example of someone who had too much time on their hands, and clearly an abundance of toys. While I'm all for crafting, there should be a tasteful limit; once plastic has been involved, said wreath maker has crossed a point of no return. Wreaths, after all, are about nature and beauty. They should be adorned with things found in nature, such as acorns, leaves, pine needles, or flowers. A plastic airplane is the farthest thing from "natural" and should not be stuck to a wreath, much less next to a Pez dispenser. Sadly, most wreaths fall into this "tacky" group, and they seem to be everywhere. Everywhere, that is, except Organic Style.

While browsing through the Home And Garden category, I came across this site that features everything and anything organic. They boast an enticing selection of organic food such as wines, ciders, chocolates, and nuts. You'll also find products for bed and bath such as organic sheets and robes. Products for home and garden such as cookware, and gardening tools, and my favorite, wreaths.

The wreath selection spans two pages and is filled with dried flowers, burnt leaves, and even spices all intertwined and tastefully done. There is nothing mass produced or kitschy, just natural and simple. I imagine a grandmother carefully making each wreath in her country house filled with dried flowers, and the wreath to the right, aptly named the 6 Herb Wreath, is a great example of that. Made of Lavender, Oregano, and Roses, this wreath also features Lamb's Ear, and Sweet Annie for those of us nature illiterate. It's warm, inviting, and has just enough color to be festive. As part of Organic Style's commitment to the environment, this wreath has been certified by Veriflora to be 100% organic. You'll also receive 75 Eco-Points good toward your next purchase. For every dollar you spend at Organic Style, you in turn get 1 Eco-Point, and enough point earned gets you a free item. Add 5% cash back to that, and you're saving a boatload. So whether you're looking to decorate your own home or give a thoughtful gift to a loved one, go to Organic Style and do it with taste.

For a long time, I have been on the fence regarding how I feel about a statement tee. That is, until I stumbled upon this fashionable "Vote T" at Gap, and now I think the tides have changed.

This customizable tee shirt says Vote for {blank}, and leaves the rest up to you. It is only $15 with 3% cash back, available in men's and women's styles, completely customizable and available for only a limited time. I'm thinking of "Vote for Cash Back" or "Vote for Louboutin", or you could make the statement of no statement and leave it blank... Shop on!

Don't forget to plan ahead... this tee makes a good stocking stuffer, too:
Vote for Rudolph!

That's right! Grab your credit card and get your fingers ready, because Best Buy actually has the Nintendo Wii in stock right now for only $249.99! While that's not actually a sale on the stock price of the console, it's extremely difficult to get the system without any $100-300 worth of unwanted games or accessories at any time of the year. On top of the bundle savings, going through Ebates is the only way to get 1% cash back on this perennial blockbuster, so grab it before your neighbor, your grandma, and your grandma's grandma does!

Whether it's a steal for you, or a holiday gift for a friend, head on over to Best Buy and search for "Nintendo Wii" to get your early present before it's gone!

Exciting things typically do not happen in my morning routine, in fact, my morning routine is quite monotonous and stale. Really, it could be accurately described by only sounds: alarm clock going off, whistle of the tea kettle, my neighbors juicer at 6:45am, and the buzz of my phone indicating I have received emails. Rarely do I get excited by the early morning newsletters of my favorite shopping destinations (Ebates excluded), except for today when I read the email from JCrew proclaiming that all outerwear is 30% off! Nothing stirs my soul with excitement more than a great sale on something you need, right now, like a fabulous coat. And if you haven't noticed, the female (and male) Ebates bloggers have coats on the radar!

I was especially elated because I've had JCrew on the brain lately. Mostly because Michelle Obama, on a visit to The Tonight Show with Jay Leno, wore a great little outfit, all from JCrew, making quite a statement about the Republican's Wardrobe spending habits, a la Sara Palin. Check this link out to get the Michelle Obama looking fabulous in JCrew look. While wearing JCrew, she also stated, "You Can get some good stuff online"- right on Michelle! Of course, shop through Ebates to earn 2% cash back and really stretch your down-to-earth dollar. Courtesy of Allie, get more of the Michelle look here.

While you're shopping for Michelle's look, swing by the outerwear section and take in all the lovely and appealing reduced prices. I am coveting this fantastic Lille Heavy Wool Pique Coat. The sophisticated tie detail at the waist makes it very flattering for women of all shapes and sizes because it adds some definition to the body and prevents the dreaded "boxy coat figure." This beauty is on sale for $198, originally $298! That is a great deal!






With the money I saved, I think I will splurge on a fabulous pin like this Jet Star Pin for $55 with 2% cash back. It's a ladylike addition that will spice up the drab days of Fall and Winter.

Shop on!

There are some stores that you shop at for the labels, even if you tell yourself the opposite. Most women fall victim to this brainwashing and believe that more expensive means better quality. Sometimes it does, but often it doesn't. Chadwick's is a perfect example of the store that makes you rethink where you spend your money. It features great prices, and of-the-moment designs such as this pintucked blouse. One part feminine, one part masculine, this blouse is my idea of a perfect basic, because it is simple but not boring. If the style didn't grab your attention, then perhaps the price will. At my old shopping haunts, this adorable top would cost upwards of $150, but at Chadwick's it's on sale for just $7.99! In fact, Chadwicks' clearance section allows you to shop by price whether you're looking to spend under $20 or under $7. The selection and styles will have you questioning what it is that you ever saw in those other sites, and the price will have you saving big bucks. Today only you'll earn double cash back, or 6%, so say buh-bye to big price tags, and hello to a Big Fat Check.

Greetings again, folks. I apologize for being somewhat remiss in my blogging about men's fashion recently, but I've got an accessory extravaganza today that will more than make up for my recent quiet. So before getting into specifics, I will say this much: men, for the most part, don't accessorize. I have no problem with that, and the accessory I wear most is a pair of headphones. Still, you can't underestimate the impact that a small accessory can make on your whole outfit. Whether you switch belts, put on a pair of gloves, or finally escape the clutches of plain white tube socks, even the slightest change can be an eye-opener. Here are a few suggestions of items you can add to spice up your look a little bit; I will say that I excluded hats, watches, and sunglasses, but I will be adding a hat blog sometime in the not-too-distant future. Glasses and sunglasses are such a personal taste thing, I wouldn't even know where to start. Also, in our modern day and age of cell phones, watches are becoming more of an afterthought as well. So, with no further ado, let's turn an eye towards accessories.

For what seems like the most intuitive way of doing this, we'll start at the bottom and move our way up. It should come as no surprise that the hands-down number one product that can spice up your accessorized life is a pair of argyle socks. Hear men, men, when I say this: argyle socks will immediately make you appear (and feel) more intelligent and more interesting. Don't believe me? Try it for yourself -- Old Navy is selling Argyle Socks right now for just $3.33 when you buy three or more pairs. You'll feel just the tiniest of grins sneak across your face when you sit down or cross your legs and your pant leg lifts enough to reveal some argyle. Even with tennis shoes, it's a great look, and at under $10 for three pairs, plus 3% cash back, you'll be sitting pretty.

Moving up the body a little, let's look at belts a moment. For the most part, belts are considered boring and are often overlooked. That's because when people think of belts they think of a simple black or brown leather band with a plain buckle. Nowadays, studded belts have made a comeback to the point that they're almost out of style again, but there are other options for making your waistline a little more fashionable.  For a subtle yet environmentally friendly change, try this Black Rubber Belt made from the inner tubes of old truck tires. (pictured at left) It's a great change of pace from the basic black belt, and makes you feel a little better about the state of our landfills. For a more colorful change, white belts have come back into vogue, and the BKE Distressed White Belt is perfect for adding that dash of white that isn't glaringly white. Plus, it's got a subtle pattern in it that provides some interesting detailing.

Wallets also get overlooked too often. I have carried the same wallet in my back pocket since 1994, and recently have entertained the thought of getting something new to carry my cash and cards in. While I will probably end up with something simple and efficient, like the Milano Hipster Wallet, my eye has always been on the Fossil Amp ID Bi-fold wallet. The big pull for me, naturally, is that its money clip doubles as a bottle opener, but I have just never been a fan of keeping my money on the outside of my wallet. It bears mention that the Fossil Mantra is also a great option for those of you who prefer the tri-fold style wallet, and it also has a nice slash of color to break up the basic black of the wallet.

Now that some of these essentials are covered, I'll wrap up with a few less conventional ways to add a little extra personality to your outfit. The first thing is gloves. I am a huge fan of fingerless gloves, and these ones from Urban Outfitters are just great. You can't go wrong with stripes when it comes to knit wear, and at just $12 a pair, they're completely affordable for the many uses you can get from them. If, like me, you keep your apartment a little colder, these are also perfect for wearing while working at the computer - you still have the same touch as bare hands, but keep your palms and wrists warm. For even more protection, consider the Livity Digitech Gloves - they have flip-back covers for your thumb and index finger so you can use any touch-sensitive device and then cover your chilly fingertips back up. At $18, it's a little steep for the novelty factor, but they're still pretty cool. If you feel like adding a scarf to complete the gloved look, I recommend the Sweater-knit Scarf from Old Navy - they're on sale for $10 and they're amazingly warm. You can't go wrong with that combo.

Finally, the last addition is something compelling to wear around your wrist if you are so inclined. Most men shy away from anything that might be considered a "bracelet" but these two options are both masculine and not "jewelry" in the widest of definitions. First is the Sailor's Knot Bracelet. I find these things fascinating, and have always liked the look, but I used to have a friend with legitimate sailing experience, and for that reason I could never wear one without feeling like a huge phony. Let my loss be your gain, and pick one up for just $5. If you're willing to spend a little more, I also recommend the Fossil Leather and Canvas watch strap. While it is intended to have a watch on it, I think this also works well as a "cuff" style bracelet, and with the grey and black being set off by white contrast stitching.

Phew... well, that went on a little longer than I'd anticipated, so hopefully you can all find something that appeals to you (or ladies, for the man in your life).  Hopefully before the end of the week, I can give you a more in-depth examination of men's hats and how they really should be worn.

With laptop computers being all the rage nowadays, computer monitors have become more of a niche item than a total necessity for basic computing. Even though they can double your laptop's workspace (and allow you to use a desktop computer at all), few really take the time to set up a proper workstation for their laptop. And who can blame them? With most decent monitors running somewhere between $150-$200, it's just not worth the money for those who get along just fine with their single screen or archaic CRT monitor. With that said, I've found that whenever a great tech deal comes along, it's important to always take a few steps back and think about how it might maximize or improve your current setup.

For that reason exactly, you shouldn't think of this refurbished eMachines 17" widescreen LCD monitor as simply another dirt-cheap Tech Tuesday pick. Instead, think of it as a $100 investment into doubling your productivity. Whether you have a laptop or a desktop, adding another monitor onto your existing system gives you twice the space for programs and applications; allowing you to multitask far more efficiently than ever before. Instead of constantly having to dance between applications, you can have two monitors for a desktop instead of one! With one dedicated monitor for work and one for play, you can easily have all your Word documents and Excel spreadsheets running on one monitor, while simultaneously looking at your Instant Messages, music, and games going on the other. It eliminates all the extra clicking, and lets you work without having to worry about hopping between windows every few minutes. I have to personally say that running a second monitor at home is an utter godsend for me, and it'll likely be hard for anyone go back to the all the clutter once you've experienced the magic of a second desktop.

If you're ready to expand your desktop, the refurbished eMachines 17" widescreen monitor is an absolute steal for only $104 shipped from Buy.com. It sports a speedy 8ms response time, 600:1 contrast ratio, and 1440x900 resolution to give you a picture that is crisp, clear, and large. Whether you're looking for your first monitor or your fourth, this 17" widescreen monitor is a great value considering it's over $90 off. This deal is very limited, so run over to Buy.com and search for "eMachines 17" Monitor" and start boosting your productivity before its gone!

Halloween is the one time of year that normal people can get away with abnormal behavior. It's during this holiday when dressing up like a pirate or a bloody ghoul is acceptable, and wearing a bright orange wig will get a laugh instead of a stare. Just about everyone dons some form of costume whether at home or the office. For those not wanting to wear an entire ensemble, there are other ways to get into the spirit, such as wigs, masks, or witch hats. A favorite go-to piece of mine is the blonde wig I bought from a joke shop years ago. It itches my head like crazy, but for one night it's nice for a brunette like me to get out of character and see if blondes really do have more fun. Creating a new character and a new style is always fun, so it's with this train of thought that I considered purchasing a real wig, or should I say a wig not made to be a joke.

Most people view wigs as something to wear as either a joke or for medical reasons; but I view a wig as another way to accessorize. There's a saying "Change Your Shoes, Change Your Life" so imagine what a curly wig would do for the woman who has stick straight hair, or the blonde who wants to go darker, but not permanently. As women, we change our bags, coats, and shoes, so why not change our hairstyles? This "Joan" wig from Ashro is made from 100% human hair, so it won't look fake to others, and it even has subtle highlights. The long side swept bangs and tousled cut is one that I have slaved for hours to achieve, yet for some reason I always come out of my bathroom looking like I have stuck my hand in an electrical outlet. Easy to wash, this wig also features an extended neck for firm support. After all, there's nothing worse than having your hair fall off in public.


Since the cut and color of the above wig is not too far off from what I am naturally (although the styling job is way better than what I can do) I also found this funky and retro wig that satisfies my thirst for that which I could never have naturally. For years I wanted a cropped bob full of tights curls, and maximum volume, just like the wig to the left, aptly named "The Funky Constance". I did just about everything imaginable in order to achieve this look, yet I ended up looking like a poodle, while suffering from damaged hair for almost a year. Had I known about Ebates, I would have saved myself the split ends, and also received 3% cash back. The next time you're thinking of a new look, save yourself hundreds spent at the salon, (and the disappointment knowing your hair will never look as good as it did when you left the salon) and head over to Ashro for not just wigs, but apparel, shoes, and accessories. The selection is great, and so is 3% cash back.

Somewhere along the line, the idea of an individual "wanting it all" has received a bad reputation. I ask, "What's so wrong with wanting it all, especially when it comes to makeup?" For example, I want to get 30,000 different makeup combinations for just forty eight dollars. I want it all; I want seventy-one eye shadows, thirteen cream eye shadows, sixty lip glosses, five blushes, brushes, one compact powder, one lip liner, one eyeliner and three sponge applicators. What's more is that I want all of that to fold up in a sleek, portable black case. Too much to ask? Not for my pals at Sephora. The have just released the Sephora Brand Ultimate Blockbuster: Collectors Edition. This fancy little kit appeals to over-the-top collectors like myself, people who want the wonderful world of makeup right at their fingertips, theoretically at all times. I could bring this beauty chest to work with me and one second look like myself and the next be Tammy Faye Baker's doppelganger (R.I.P.). I want that kind of possibility in my makeup routine, and for a staggering $48 dollars with 4% cash back, I can. The collection makes an amazing gift for someone special on your list or just for yourself, so go ahead... you deserve it!

A little too much bang for your buck? I understand. That kind of selection can be a tad overwhelming. Try this Tarte Limited Edition Vanity Palette instead, a $494 value for just $52 dollars plus 4% cash back. This set features sixteen eye shadows and sixteen lip glosses, a deluxe mascara, mineral bronzer, luminizer, blushes, and two quality brushes to put it all together. This is an amazing kit, and it makes a great gift for everyone from the beauty obsessed (like yours truly) to those people on your list who need a little help. This kit is all one needs to create countless day or night beauty looks.

You can have it all (with some cash back) and so can everyone on your list!

For some of us, staying current isn't the biggest priority in our book. No, not everyone needs to have the newest and shiniest doodad out there, and indeed, the newest technology isn't always the absolute best out there. Case in point? The Canon PowerShot A590 8.0 Megapixel digital camera.

While seemingly simple in its outward appearance, the PowerShot A590 does exactly what you want a camera to do: take outstanding pictures. Its 8.0 megapixels take pictures that can be printed as large as 20"x24" with great clarity. What makes that even better is that this camera is portable enough to be tossed into your bag for practically any occasion. While it's not as fancy, colored, or streamlined as it's $170 PowerShot SD1100 brethren, it packs a few distinct bonuses aside from it's awesome $115 price tag. First, it's a bit thicker and has a little "nub" that sticks out on the front that gives those of us with butterfingers a little extra to hold onto. Also, it's larger size and sturdy construction will likely hold up to the rigors of everyday usage better than most cameras, making it the perfect purchase if you have kids, pets, or anything else that occasionally cause your electronics to meet their untimely demise.

Considering that the Dell store is practically giving away the A590 for $115, I can't imagine why anyone looking for a great, simple camera wouldn't snag it up in a second. Sure, it might be a little bulkier and won't exactly fit in your pocket, but its pictures are just as crisp and clear as more expensive models, and it should stand the test of time as well (if not better) than most. If you're ready to take the plunge, do it quickly before Dell takes away their $10 instant savings!

Fall is well on its way - this weekend the clocks will go back in the west which officially, for me, marks the end of the awkward months between dwindling Summer and full blown Fall or what is sometimes called an Indian Summer, that occurs a lot here in San Francisco. The changing of the time means the actual search (as opposed to the browse, which I am so found of) for "all things Fall" is on, because the weather will change soon and not turn back. A very important Fall decision is a new pair of boots. Whenever I buy boots, I like to invest in a timeless, classic style that I can wear season in and season out. This year, I want to add a classic riding boot to the rotation, a recommendation I would give to every woman looking to enhance their shoe wardrobe. I was automatically inspired by these Frye Dorado Riding Boots, available at Piperlime for $458 and 3% Cash Back.

I love Frye boots, they are excellently made, classically styled and only look better the older they get. I will also add that they are super comfortable. However, although I could completely justify the price, especially when I determine " cost-per-wear",  but these days $500 seems like a lot to let go of, even for a fabulous pair of boots, even though I am easily persuaded by the notion that when you spend more, you get more cash back!

Enticed by the prospect of accruing more cash back and a fabulous pair of boots, but not willing to buy, my mission began for a suitable look for less.

I found these Dressage Riding Boots at Urban Outfitters for $158 with 2% cash back.
I like these boots, they have a riding boot quality to them, a modern take on the classic style, with minimal detail making for a great everyday boot that complements both dresses and pant looks. However, I was kind of sold on something that replicated the riding boot style of the Fryes a little more. Nonetheless, this is a great boot, especially for the anti-buckle person, but I will have to keep looking.

I was excited to find these American Living 'Gisela' Riding Boots at JCPenny, on sale for $109.99 with 4% cash back. They are the least expensive of all of the boots but they are definitely not lacking style and they are genuine leather! They boast a classic riding boot style, with the buckle and the slightly-pointed- rounded toe. I also think that these would not come up as high as the Frye boots would, as the shaft on these is 13 1/2 inches, compared to the Frye's 15 inches, which makes a world of difference on a petite frame!

It appears as though I have found a suitable look for less - saving me almost $350! Shop on!

Sunday mornings are a tiny slice of heaven for me. Where else can I click away on my desktop, while enjoying a cup of strong coffee, some fresh cantaloupe, and the sounds of Miles Davis? It's because of this Bermuda Triangle of contentment that I try to postpone my day and any errands that need running for as long as possible. However, once my cup goes cold, my day officially begins. Aside from food shopping and the yearly pumpkin picking, I am also cleaning out the contents of my closet and reassessing my wardrobe. A true closet cleaning yields garments lost in the abyss, bad purchases, and fallen fads. A sequin butterfly top in bright pink perhaps was not the most practical thing to buy, nor was the vintage psychedelic top straight out of a bad acid trip. Although great in concept, if I only envision wearing such an item in my fantasies, then it wasn't a smart choice.

It's said the average person wears 20% of their wardrobe 80% of the time, yet I aspire to do the opposite, which means I'll need to have an closet full of staples with just a few "of the moment" pieces.  For those of you who place "staples" in the same category as "boring" then take a look at this Splendid blouse from Shopbop. It's simple, yet features details such as cuffed sleeves and a dainty floral print. Made from silk and cotton, it's a comfortable alternative to the classic white button-down shirt. Whether you're wearing this under a blazer for work, or pairing with a sassy belt for drinks, this shirt is guaranteed to be your go-to staple. On sale for just $64, this shirt will make a big bang for your buck. As if that weren't enough, enjoy free shipping, and 3% cash back. Now this is what I call the Bermuda Triangle  a la' Ebates.

That's right kiddies, this is the big day - the one you've been waiting for. For the first time since the latest product rollout, Apple will be our Daily Double merchant. This means you can get the new MacBooks or MacBook Pros at 2% cash back, rather than just one. It may not sound like much, but when you're paying premium amounts for electronics, that can equal a lot more cash back in your account.

Even if you're not looking for anything introduced in the latest product releases, this is also a great chance to get added cash back on refurbs and accessories. Don't miss the boat, since we don't know when Apple will be doubled again...

Cold and flu season is that time of year that everyone dreads like the plague....or like the flu ( they should change that saying). I am one of those people that thinks they hate being sick more than anyone else and we are usually the ones to drop first. It is always those people who don't wash their hands, never sleep a wink or let a vitamin pass their lips that reign victorious. Which has led me to the conclusion that getting sick is 1/2 frame of mind ( "I will not get sick...") and 1/2 essential products that will keep you like bubble boy for the entire season.

First and foremost, you will need Vitamin C. There are all kinds of fancy brands and names. I think just regular vitamin C will do the trick. Check out a great selection at Puritans Pride, offering 6% cash back. While you are there, pick up an Echinacea and Goldenseal liquid extract, for just $14.99 and you get one free! It is always a good combo to keep in the arsenal.

Add some Emergen-C Packets, on sale for just $10.46, 30% off original retail. These are great for on the go prevention and have B vitamins and other effective preventative compounds like Quercetin and Zinc.

I also recommended, stocking up on some kind of hand sanitizer for all of those times a sick person opens a door in front of you, boards the bus or gets anywhere near your personal space during the season. Try this EO Organic Hand Sanitizer six pack in lavender scent. It is currently on sale at Drugstore.com for 15% off and is now only $19, with 6% cash back. The six pack is great, you can stock your desk, work bag, car and home.

While you are shopping at Drugstore.com, I highly recommend adding some Zicam to your shopping cart and subsequently, part of your survival kit. This product is intended to reduce the severity of the common cold or prevent one from getting full blown sick. So if you feel something coming on, take some of this ( it comes in nasal swab form or lozenges) and your symptoms will not fully progress or last as long.

Hopefully, these suggestions for a Cold/Flu season survival kit will keep you well and enjoying all your cash back. Now is the time to stock up and save! Shop on!

As those of you who follow my "Weekend Idea" have probably noticed, I spend a decent amount of time recommending things that I don't know much about. From fishing or swimming to gardening or camping, I have tried to promote a handful of activities that I always like the idea of but usually lack the gumption to act upon.

This week, I am doing the complete opposite; I'm writing about something I enjoy with a passion. This week, I talk about pool. See, growing up, I was the envy of the kids at my school - I was the kid with a pool table in his garage. Every Friday and Saturday night from 1992 through 1995 from about seven to ten in the evening, my two friends and myself could be found listening to music and playing pool. Looking back, those were some of the happiest times in my life. As I grew older, my family got a new pool table that was closer to regulation size, and I started playing a lot more seriously. I've always found that little else relaxes me like a few games of pool in the cool of that garage. Nowadays, I tend to play the majority of my pool in local bars, and thanks to the years of playing in my youth, I usually can hold my own.

When I started here, the only places I could purchase any billiard supplies were major sporting goods stores. While I appreciate the fact that they are making pool cues, balls, and racks available to the general public, they don't have supplies that make a poolshark's heart go pitter-pat. It's exactly this reason that I was thrilled when I found out that we had added a new billiard-specific website, PoolDawg.com. Let me tell you, as someone who can actually speak from a voice of experience, this place has it all. I spent about half an hour just clicking around and salivating over all the great products they have for sale at this site. From the high end cues, like Medici and Viking to their own brand one-piece cues or accessory bundles, these guys have everything that a seasoned pool player could want, all at ridiculous prices. Even better, they offer free ground shipping on orders over $75, and if you buy almost any cue on the site, you are pretty much gauranteed a free gift plus your 3% cash back.

I'd better stock up on Ramen, because I could put a major dent in my paycheck with all the great products on this site.
(image from Karimtemple.com)

Earlier this week, I highlighted a simple iPod sound solution that was perfect for just about any room - the Sound Master 360. It's small, subtle style fits just about anywhere, and you just can't beat it's low price of $39.99. However, it's not the perfect iPod speaker system, and those looking for a little extra kick in the pants might want to look for a larger alternative. Unfortunately, most of the larger iPod speaker systems run in the range of $200-400, and usually aren't really worth their high purchase price. Thankfully, Creative must have been paying attention to all the crazy prices, as they recently knocked down their Cambridge SoundWorks PlayDock's price 50% to $99.99; perfect for those of us needing a little extra power for the holidays.

As a music nerd, I love having the option of listening to music at any time. While some speaker systems offer paltry sound that hardly beats a pair of mediocre earbud headphones, the PlayDock is an all-in-one, high fidelity audio system. It uses high-performance drivers and a 24watt RMS subwoofer to bring the party to you, and even supports various inputs to connect to TV's and your other audio devices. It even directly connects to your TV to play your iPod's movies and pictures on the big screen! Much like the "ghetto blasters" of yesteryear, the PlayDock easily runs off a few handfuls of C batteries (or an AC adapter), meaning you don't have to have an electrical outlet to bring the party with you wherever you go. Since it can be easily used indoors or outdoors, the PlayDock it the perfect hi-fi companion for skateboarders, street artists, and mathletes alike.

Regardless of what you use it for, the Cambridge SoundWorks PlayDock is on a sweet $99 special right now for with free shipping from Creative.com. That's a cheap price for so much high quality sound. So if you're looking for a little something to make your budget-minded audiophile happy this holiday, why not save $100 and 1% with Ebates?

As the Sarah Palin shopping saga continues; I  would like to conclude this week with one final post. The week's news about Palin’s shopping spree brought up questions like: is this kind of spending appropriate given the economy? Is she actually an “every-woman” hockey mom if she’s wearing Armani? Also, who cares? And my personal favorite: What the “heck” did she buy?

You can shop Saks Fifth Avenue yourself, earn 3% cash back and pick up many of the items Sara bought, like this Max Mara Sovrana Cowl neck Jacket for $965 with matching skirt for $340, pictured  left and on Palin here.

This finely crafted garment is made of  Italian virgin wool (insert appropriate joke here), elastaine and spandex. This is a great suit. The craftsmanship, tailoring, and design of it confirm that Max Mara is a genius miracle worker and that it is a fabulous piece that you will have forever, even if it sets you back $1305 you will accrue some cash back….

Add to the suit a strikingly similar Dolce&Gabanna patent skinny belt for $430 and some Christian Louboutin low-heel pumps for $595. Include also some Wolford tights for $52 dollars. Accessorize the look with two of these Alexis Bitar bangles for $225 each all available at Saks with 3% cash back.

Before you leave Saks.com, pick up this gorgeous Akris Punto Ombre Stripe Blazer that Palin wears in the photograph at left. The designer piece is available for $1,500. Add a stretch wool skirt for $395 by the designer to complete the look.

If you're looking to finalize the look and snag a nearly identical pair of Palin's (or Tina Fey doing Sara Palin) glasses, pick up a pair of these Semi-rimless Titanium eyeglasses selling for $99 at 39dollarglasses.com, with 7% Cash Back.   

Final total for Palin's look: $4,826. So you can see that a month's worth of clothing at this rate per outfit, you can quickly rack up a tab at one store in the 40,000 dollar range. The rest of the $150,000- I can't really explain that, although word on the street is that the price of up-do's has gone up.

Interested in the Palin for less? Click here

We're arriving at the end of the month again, and as has been the case, most deals are beginning to approach their expiration date. So, just a word of warning: all the deals that I will be featuring today end on or before the 30th of October, but there are literally hundreds of free shipping deals that will expire on Halloween day, so don't feel limited by today's list - just click on the free shipping truck and see all the great deals on shipping we have to offer. So here we go...

Friday, October 24th
- J. Crew has free shipping on all orders over $195.  May I just add for the record, that this free shipping offer pairs perfectly with the fact that J. Crew is today's Daily Double. Score!

Saturday, October 25th
- dELiA*s has free shipping on orders of $25 or more at dELiA*s with Code DWQW25.

- If you're looking to give a gift any time soon, check out Silkflowers - they're shipping everything for free through Saturday! Just use the code SHIP4FREE.

- I won't provide any direct links, but Best Buy is shipping all SORTS of stuff for free -- click on the free truck and scroll down just a bit for an exhaustive list.

- They're becoming a staple of free shipping Fridays, but HP Home and Home Office Store has Free Next Business Day shipping on all HP ink, toner and paper.

Sunday, October 26th
- For the ladies, there is free shipping on any order at Charlotte Russe. It's in the Continental US only, but hey, it's free!

- JCPenney is currently offering free shipping on all orders $99 and up

- For you late costume shoppers, Costume SuperCenter has free expedited ground shipping on orders over $70 or more with code SCARE70 - act soon and get your costume by Halloween!

Monday, October 27th
- Keep your skin protected from the harsh Winter weather with products from Clinique. Just enter code FALLBEST, and you'll get free shipping plus a free skin care duo!

- Step out in style with free shipping from Nordstrom -- just buy a pair of shoes, and your entire order will be shipped for free!

Tuesday, October 28th

- For you auto lovers, JC Whitney has free shipping on orders $75 and above with code SEDAKX8. From spark plugs to engine blocks to seat covers, they've got it all.

- Coldwater Creek is offering free shipping on everything if you use code WXH5317 - get the latest looks shipped for free.

Thursday, October 30th
- PETCO has free shipping on all orders $50 or more. Spoil your be, or just buy it a costume!

In the world of retail, most stores offer hit-or-miss shopping. Sometimes you find something cute, and other times you'll find nothing and walk away feeling miserable. It's in this pessimistic frame of mind that I entered J.Crew, assuming to find the same preppy flannel shirts and khakis that I had seen in catalogs as a child. Boy was I wrong! Immediately I knew my days of coming up empty handed were over. The site is chock full of such irresistible items as herringbone jackets done in pretty sherbet hues, and silk blouses that are one part femme fatale, one part menswear. I found these Patent Leather Driving Shoes in the sale section, where the variety is as good as the rest of the site. These shoes are the perfect example of form meets function. The patent leather is easy to clean (yet super cute) and the rubber sole gives great grip.

Besides perfectly tailored cardigans, blazers, and denim, J.Crew offers dresses to make even the most girly of woman sigh with delight. From 50's inspired full volume to 60's shift, the selection is huge. This Sydney Dress features a fitted bodice and A-line skirt for a beautiful silhouette. Ruching detail around the waistband and neckline gives an extra touch of dainty. The bold floral print is a hybrid of retro and modern, yet it is dark enough to wear in Winter. On sale for just $139, this dress could easily become your go-to piece. Just add tights and a cardigan, and you've got the most coveted fall look, while earning 4% cash back!

If you are a believer in the notion that the "early bird gets the worm," you'll be happy to know that this weekly blog report is based on that credo. While other blogs may let you in on the weekend's best sales, we here at the Ebates blog know that Friday is a day too late. You must be prepared! Really, what's a Friday without some workplace-internet shopping?  So here is a rundown:

1. Macy's Birthday Sale: 10-50% off plus values site wide. Celebrate savings as the super-store turns 150! Plus, don't miss the men wardrobe sale, where all men's wardrobe necessities are 30-50% off plus an extra 20% savings! Enjoy 4% cash back.

2. eLuxury Men's Essentials Sale: 40% off all men's essentials with new markdowns. Enjoy 3% cash back.

3. Old Navy End of Season Sale: This sale is an Old Navy online exclusive with savings of 60% on Fall's biggest bargains for the whole family including women's plus and maternity.

4. Yoox Semi-Annual Sample Sale: Take advantage of huge savings with items reduced up to 90% off! Enjoy 6% Cash Back.

5. Jos A. Bank: Executive Suit Sale: Shop for suits regularly $550, now just $199. Enjoy 5% cash back.

6. dELiA*s Outerwear and Sweaters Sale: sweaters starting at $29.50 and outerwear $59.50. Enjoy 3% cash back.

7. JCPenney Fall Sale: Save 20-60% off on items for the home, outerwear and fall fashions for the family. Enjoy 4% cash back.

8. Lane Bryant Fall Sale: Up to 60% off with new markdowns! Shop now, inventory is going fast! Enjoy 3% cash back.

9. Kohl's Lowest Prices of the Season Sale: Virtually everything site wide is on sale and  available for the lowest prices of the season. Enjoy 2% cash back.

10. Newport-News The Great Fall Sale: Save up to 60% off on fashion, shoes and accessories. Enjoy 3% Cash Back.

Make some time this coming weekend to take advantage of huge sales and shop from the comfort of your own computer while you beat the crowds and earn cash back.

Shop on!

There comes a time in every blogger's life when he or she runs low on things to write about. I am somewhat at one of those times. With the addition of the rest of the blog team, I have been more content to sit back and watch their blogs roll out while I do more work in other areas for Ebates. Granted, I write my regularly regimented blogs, but it's becoming more and more scarce that I write a blog simply because I am choosing to write a blog. 

Today, however, I am choosing to write a blog. I will warn you right now - this blog will not feature a product on the cutting edge of fashion, nor is it technically advanced, or even an overwhelming sale price. Today's pick is all about aesthetics and feel. Today's pick is the Moleskine Notebook.

Yes, it's just a straightforward blank notebook. It does have a clever storage pouch on the back cover for loose papers and cards and whatnot, and it does have a nifty elastic band to hold it shut, but other than that, it's just a hardcover notebook.  So why is it worth writing about?  Simple: it's timeless.

Long after my iPod (I'm on my third, mind you) dies, after my iPhone is replaced with some amazing gadget that will make my life even better, even after I turn on my beloved Dell Inspiron laptop, I will be able to use a blank notebook. Even if I only write in it once a month or so, I know it will always be ready to go - there will be no system upgrades, no viruses, no nothing that can go wrong with it.  This is the kind of thing I love to have with me. Moreover, this is the notebook that all the cool kids want to own; it is the brand that Hemingway used to write stories in, it's the brand Picasso sketched in, and it's the brand that all-star blogger Bill Bergstrom uses to capture his ideas and observations before they end up on the internet. There is something about the feel of this notebook and the quality of the paper inside that just makes you want to write. In short, it feels like you're holding a piece of history.

Later this week/end, Cole will be writing about the city-guide notebook he recently purchased from Moleskine as well. I personally prefer the 5"x8" - it lends itself to fitting my large scrawling handwriting, and while it doesn't fit into my pocket quite as well, it fits my style just fine.  Be the envy of your friends and get one for yourself, or give it as a gift to your favorite book nerd - they'll love you forever.

Details about Sarah Palin's shopping habits have revealed that she stopped by Saks Fifth Avenue and spent $49,425.74 on some new clothing; this kind of a shopping spree is what fashion people often call a "wardrobe overhaul."

Since I always have cash back on the mind, I soon realized that if Palin had bought her items though Ebates at Saks.com, with 3% cash back, she could have $1482.77 in her Ebates account waiting for a Big Fat Check to be mailed out to Wasilla in less than a month. Above is the look on Palin's face when we told her. We have seen that look before. It is a look of  shock (about the staggering cash back and how quickly it adds up), regret (that she missed out on her opportunity to earn cash back), and excitement initiated by the fact that if you didn't save this time, there is always the next time. And McCain is pointing out that had she earned cash back through Ebates, she could have donated her earnings to charity, and neither of them would be in this mess right now. Keep that in mind if you are ever planning to overhaul your home, your wardrobe, or if you are simply picking up some necessities; cash back adds up quickly.

Stay tuned for more, and if you want to get the Sara Palin look for less, click here.

Just like every season, Winter has it's positive and negative attributes. Skating on frozen ponds and the smell of fireplaces roaring are just two of the wonderful enjoyments Winter brings. On the other hand, freezing your butt off, and having scaly hands like a fisherman is not so positive. Being a hand must be a rather depressing life. Hands are constantly neglected and abused by the elements, always dirty, and carrying germs. Yes, if I were a hand, I think I would be in some serious need of hand therapy; a little TLC perhaps. With November approaching, save hands from sudden doom with this prescription: take one part warmth and add one part moisture. The warmth is in the glove, and in particular these Cashmere Lined Leather Gloves from SmartBargains. Available in eight colors, these supple leather gloves will pamper the skin with the soft touch of cashmere. At just $39.99 they are the perfect gift to make others say "Oh you shouldn't have."

The second ingredient to healthy winter hands is moisture, moisture, moisture. Harsh winds and dry households wreak havoc on the skin, so protect your largest organ with L'Occitane Shea Butter Hand Cream.
Truly one of the best hand cream's in the world, L'Occitane's Shea Butter is not only a weapon against the elements, but it is also made from natural ingredients like honey, almond, and coconut oil. A little of this wonder product goes a long way, so I suggest the travel size. At $10 it will last you a surprisingly long time, and makes the perfect stocking stuffer!

Both these must have items will yield you 4% cash back, and remember folks, there are only...

If you have been waiting to splurge on a new skincare regime, makeup overhaul, or lavish hair care - wait no longer. Beauty.com is the Ebates Daily Double today! Once a respectable 6% cash back, today only we are offering 12% cash back, which will have a comforting impact on your shopping cart total. Shop for the pinnacle of skincare lines: Philosophy,  PerriconeMD, Murad, Bliss, and natural lines like, Korres, Lavanila Laboratories, Fresh, Dr. Hauschka, and many more. Plus the latest and greatest in makeup from Prescriptives, Jane Iredale, NARS... plus hair care and fragrance, gifts, and beauty tools. Enjoy gifts with purchase on many items and three free samples per order, plus free shipping everyday. As I am on a Paraben free kick ( f.y.i., you can shop for all paraben free items with a simple click), I am stocking up on Lavanila Laboratories ($25) body butter before the days of dry and chapped winter skin arrive. The container of this amazingly scented and richly moisturizing body lotion is 100% recyclable and the formula is free of Petrochemicals, Phthalates, Propylene glycol, Mineral oils, Silicone, Synthetic dyes, Sulfates or Parabens, so it is good for your skin and healthy for your body too.

If you are new to beauty.com you can save $10 on orders of $60 or more (restrictions apply and discount automatically occurs at checkout).

I've got some serious shopping to do!

Greetings again, folks. I have an admission to make, if you haven't noticed: I love doing these Wednesday segments. My usual process in finding the sites that make the cut for this segment involves skimming our Stores list, finding names that I can't immediately connect to an obvious product source, being amused by their products, and it eventually ends with me realizing "Hey, this stuff could really be appreciated by the right person." 

This week is no exception. GoGoods has one of the least descriptive names I've seen on the 'net: clearly they sell goods, but that's as much information as I could glean from the name. So I clicked around the site a bit, and I was amused at some of the more... "niche" selections, like the wide supply of CB radio equipment, but I also noticed something else: the site has a wide array of specialty gift categories, and also has a ton of various gift baskets to choose from. So soon it dawned on me "Hey, this place is a great site to find gifts for people."  So whether you prefer home spa items, toys, gift baskets, or CB radio, GoGoods.com has a great selection of products that can make you or your loved ones very happy.

And what kind of blogger would I be if I didn't mention that you will get 5% cash back on all your purchases?!?!

Whenever possible, I like to listen to music. Whether I'm walking to the bus station, alone in my room, or  typing away at work, I need to have a little background music to really get stuff done. That's why something simple like this little Sound Master 360 is perfect for people like me. It's small, compact, and even emits music in all directions, allowing mobile music enthusiasts like me to have music in every corner of their room. It even doubles as an iPod dock if you hook it up near your computer, making it an all-in-one iPod music machine.

I won't be the first to let you in on the secret that almost anything iPod related is relatvely overpriced, but the Sound Master 360 is one of the few accessories I've seen that looks like it's actually reasonably priced! At only $39.99 ($20 off!) with 6% cash back from Drugstore.com, this simple necessity is on a huge special that definitely won't last through the holidays. If you need a little something to add a little music to your kitchen, bedroom, or cubicle, the Sound Master 360 should work wonders for anyone.

So that my parents don't disown me and feed me to hungry pit bulls, I will say that this post is written by a lover of fashion, a shopper who believes that any look can be achieved for a lot less money (that relishes the challenge) and also a woman who is excited for a Big Fat Check of cash back to be sent next month.

Whether you're on team Tina Fey or a Sarah Palin supporter, everybody's talking about S.P.'s look. In fact, I've considered slipping on my Naughty Monkey pumps and perfecting my Alaskan r-'s for a great Halloween Costume. A fly in the ointment, however, is that the price tag of Palin's look has just been released to the media; it has cost the campaign $150,000 to keep Palin press-worthy. But here at Ebates, we are proponents of the look-for-less ideology, and know that it doesn't need to cost a lot to achieve the look, irregardless of the original price tag.

So here's the original look:   

The key point of focus for this look is the modern suit jacket with a skinny waist belt accent. Her look is essentially modern feminine, an updated play on a skirt suit with added extras like the brooch and trendy patent belt.  For an almost identical jacket and belt combination, I found this Ponte Jacket from MaxStudio on sale for $48 with 6% cash back.

Then add this patent leather skinny belt  from Bluefly for just $24 (40% off the original retail price!) with 3% cash back. 



Pair the look with a coordinating pencil skirt, like this one available at Kohl's on sale for $27.99, 37% off with 2% cash back. This skirt is perfect because it appear to have the same stretchy, flattering material of the one Palin wears in the photo. You always want to make sure when coordinating separates that the fit of each piece and the material are complementary. The key is to make the jacket and the skirt work together not appear as though they are a uniform.

Pin a sparkly statement brooch on to the jacket to add some interest and to break up all the black. This is a great piece from Banana Republic, it looks almost like a family heirloom, but is actually just $38 with 3% cash back.

The final total for the Palin inspired look: just $137.99 for the entire outfit, plus cash back! So you really don't need a campaign-sized budget to get Palin's look. Shop on!

Greetings, dear readers. You know that we here at Ebates are always happy to see you, and always happy to help you save money in all your shopping endeavors. Naturally, with the recent economic woes our country has been experiencing, it is more important than ever to save money at every turn. By shopping with Ebates you are doing just that.

But don't take our word for it. Just last night on CNBC's program "On the Money", host Carmen Wong Ulrich spoke with the author of Practically Posh and editor at Women's Day Robyn Moreno. She was on as an expert on smart shopping and saving money, and Ebates was one of her three top picks for sites that will help you save money and time in shopping online. You can watch the video here, but have patience - she doesn't talk about us until 2:20 into the video, but all the advice leading up to our mention is invaluable as well.

If you have a slower internet connection, or just don't like to watch videos online, there is a posting on the "On the Money" blog that gives a rather concise rundown of the interview. You can read the blog here.

We hope that you all share our excitement about Ebates getting some national media attention, and encourage all of you who have blogs or are active on online forums to spread the word on Ebates - use your referral links and keep raking in that tell-a-friend bonus cash!

When looking for something unique to add to my wardrobe ie; my chances of spotting someone wearing the same thing are slight to none, I always head to Yoox. After all, Yoox is anything but an ordinary site. Not only do they have well over a hundred designers, but they also carry everything from vintage to sample items, to full collections. Yes, you heard right, vintage, and we're not talking your grandma's dingy sweaters; we're talking Dior, Chanel, and YSL. Need another reason to head to Yoox today? Well from now until October 26th, Yoox is having one major sample sale with items up to 90% off! This coat from Bergdorf Goodman was originally priced at $1168, but Yoox is selling it for just $118! That's a savings of over a thousand dollars! Need I say more? Didn't think so.

Shop today for huge savings plus 12% cash back!

I read my first issue of Lucky Magazine eight years ago, while waiting for a flight at the San Francisco Airport. Being that I was eighteen and not old enough to join other disgruntled travelers at the bar, I had to be contented with magazines and my ten pound CD case. Although I cannot remember what I ate for lunch yesterday, I do remember the cover and overall excitement that swept over me as I tore through its pages. For once, there was a magazine about clothing from a shopper's point of view, and not a stylist's. Instead of artsy and expensive clothing draped on mile high models, there were pages of tops, trousers, jeans, and the like, all seemingly obtainable. There were normal (although still model-y) women wearing clothing that I could wear, and now I knew where to buy it. Suffice it to say, ever since then I have been a devoted follower, placing "yes" and "maybe" tags on everything from an adorable clutch to my new crush.

Several years later, the mag ventured into the land of hardbacks with The Lucky Shopping Manual; a complete piece-by-piece guide to building a wardrobe. To this day, I still reference it for advice, or when I simply need inspiration. Yes, even shopgirl/stylists can get fashion block, so imagine my excitement when I learned that there would be a sequel! Not just a sequel, but The Lucky Guide To Mastering Any Style, which you can purchase at Borders for just $24. Inside this must-have book is your detailed guide to achieving ten signature looks, ranging from American Classic to Bohemian. The book is so comprehensive that it features not just clothing and accessories, but also the stores and websites where you favorite "look" can be purchased. So the next time you're needing a little help mastering any style, pick up this handy book, and while you're at, it enjoy receiving 4% cash back!

If you or someone you know has a birthday within a two month radius of the Holiday season you know what it's like: the infamous Happy Birthday/Merry Christmas gift, the fruit cake with candles, the forgetting to send happy birthday wishes because everyone is so occupied with holiday festivities. My brother is born on Christmas Day, and while it may seem kind of cool and interesting to the outsider, he really got gypped in the end.

He never had a legitimate birthday party, always had birthday gifts wrapped in snowman paper, and every year some relative forgot to wish him a happy birthday. Furthermore, being told that you're special because you share the same day of birth as Jesus is really no consolation. Instead, make it easy on yourself and fun for the birthday person by picking up a celebratory gift set that is both festive and says "I acknowledge its your birthday." This Dylan's Candy Bar Birthday Collection from Sephora is a great find. Prices range from $16-22 dollars for each piece in the collection of shower gel, sugar scrub, or butter cream (lotion) - all of which come with 4% Cash Back.

It is a thoughtful and inexpensive way to wish someone a happy day that doesn't involve a holiday sentiment, but fits perfectly in a stocking or Reindeer gift bag if you forget! Shop on!

Every once in a while, a special deal sneaks across my desk that is just too good for me to keep quiet about. Not all deals are created equal, and this stellar steal exemplifies the fact that if you spend a little bit of time doing your research, checking prices, and going through Ebates, you can get the absolute lowest price on the 'net. Whether you're brand new to our site or a nine-year veteran, there's simply no better way to keep money in your pocket than Ebates, and with that said, if you're in the market for a new HD Camcorder, I have the perfect deal for you.

With a four star CNET rating, the Canon VIXIA HF100 is the most affordable high quality HD camera on the market right now. At its normal MSRP of $899.99, the HF100 isn't normally the most affordable camcorder for many, especially in today's tough economy. But thanks to the wonders of the internet and Ebates' cash back, you can pick up this award-winning camcorder for less than $585 - not including the free monopod, tripod, and $10 gift card / $5 sign up bonus if you're a new customer. Wowza!

As you might have noticed, the Canon VIXIA HF100 is not your average camcorder. Gone are the days of grainy pictures, giant tapes, and annoying discs, as the HF100 saves its crystal clear HD video onto SD cards like most digital cameras. Unlike your digital camera, this workhorse records in true 1920x1080 HD resolution and can be easily synced up to your TV or computer to view and process your home movies in all their high-def glory. It also takes superb still shots, includes a mini-HDMI port to connect to your HDTV, and features Canon's signature image stabilization to make all your high-def hijinx  look like a big budget production.

So, how can you get in on such a sweet deal? It's simple! Just head on over to Newegg and scroll down to select the Canon HF-100 combo with the Dolica STC-100 monopod/tripod for just $595. While shipping isn't free, you'll be getting a cool $11 in Cash Back from Ebates that automatically qualifies you for your signup bonus if you haven't earned it already. If you already have a tripod you'd like to use, or can wait to save on shipping, you can head over to Abes of Maine and use the coupon code "LOYALTY10" to get the HF-100 for $585 shipped (before $5 in Cash Back from Ebates), but it might take up to two weeks for shipping. The decision is ultimately yours, but either route makes Ebates the place to be for the hottest deals on the web.

Ready to pick one up? Awesome! You'll probably want to add a large memory card to your list as well, and the $32 16GB A-Data SD card from Buy.com will work perfectly (just do a search for "A-Data 16GB"). The only difference between the HF100 and it's $700 sibling, the HF10, is 16GB of memory, meaning that smart shoppers that choose the HF100 are actually saving an extra $70 (and movie transfer time) as well. With total savings climbing over $250, you just can't beat this Ebates Tech Tuesday steal!

Calling all Gossip Girl Fans... want to dress just like your favorite gossip girl? Now you can shop a selection of items at Bluefly, put together each character's coveted style. Whether you're style is bohemian luxe like Serena, feminine chic like Blair, or eclectic like Jenny; you can shop like a gossip girl and enjoy fantastic discounts on designer items with 3% Cash Back. Shop also for guys' gear just like what Chuck, Dan, and Nate wear on the show. The selection is spot-on, almost like an extension (or real life representation) of the characters closet! It will have you looking like a upper east-sider in no time, without all the drama and price tags!

Some of my favorite picks for each of the ladies are these Pedro Garicia 'Vivian' pumps that are very Serena. These snakeskin embossed-sky-high pumps are 49% off, now just $267.


And this Nanette Lapore 'Pave Diamond' strapless sweetheart dress, also 49% off and now $209, represents Blair's fabulous, feminine style.

Jenny's pick is also spot on, this hot pink mini dress is only $56 and is perfect look for the aspiring fashion designer who sports more obscure labels and always looks of-the-moment.

Stay tuned to the Ebates blog for more "get the look" features from your favorite television shows and style icons!

When it comes to cooking and the culinary arts, I am more of a catcher than a pitcher. I would much rather drink my wine and eat off the cheese plate, than be the person responsible for cooking.

Can I cook? Yes. Do I cook? No.

While some may be able to concoct three course meals out of peanut butter and cayenne pepper, I lack the imagination needed to turn several ingredients into one meal. As for cookbooks? Forget it, I would have a better grasp at reading quantum physics.

With the holidays approaching, I'm feeling rather festive and envision myself showing up to many a party holding some scrumptious (and edible) pie, or other dessert. Of course, one cannot do this without the proper tools, and I can't think of a more important tool than the KitchenAid Artisan Stand Mixer. The famous five quart stainless steel mixer features a power hub for additional attachments, and a handy pouring shield perfect for those of us who aren't so natural in the kitchen. At 15% off, it's also perfect for those of us looking to save a buck. Known for it's famous retro design and mixing magic, this chef's must-have is also part of Cook For The Cure.

Cook For The Cure is a comprehensive line of appliances and other culinary must-haves that all benefit a great cause. At least 10% of the profits from every item in the Cook For The Cure line goes directly to the Susan G. Komen foundation, helping women with breast cancer all over the world. So before you purchase a new kitchen appliance, visit KitchenAid.com. Not only will you have access to the world's top-rated appliances, you'll be donating to a worthy cause, and you'll even be earning a whopping 6% Cash Back!

Remember, all Cook For the Cure items must be registered at CookForTheCure.

The other day I talked pants, now I'm going to get you gents up to speed on what to wear along with those fine pants I discussed the other day. Right off the bat, I'll call your attention to the fact that there are no t-shirts in this posting. That is no mistake; there should be a t-shirt dedicated posting coming down the pipeline sooner or later. Rather, these will all be button/snap front shirts.

Now, there are a few simple rules every man should know:

- Know when you should and shouldn't tuck your shirt in. There are nuances about this rule I have neither the time nor the knowledge to get into, but be aware of whether or not you should tuck. Also remember: when in doubt, it's better to have an un-tucked shirt, since if you go from tuck to un-tuck, you have unsightly wrinkles at the bottom of your shirt.

- If you're going to wear long-sleeved shirts, know the proper way to roll the sleeves up. It takes five years off your look, but can also look horrible if done sloppily. Remember - for most cuffed shirts, it's two to three rolls of the cuff line. Also, think of it more as "folding" than "rolling."

- Own at least one short-sleeved dress shirt. They look great open-collared, but they come in really handy when you have to wear a suit to a wedding in July.

- Own one Hawaiian shirt. That way, you have something to wear to beach-themed events, but you're sure to avoid being "that guy who always wears Hawaiian shirts."

- Know how to pair your shirts and pants; understand the rules about stripes and plaids and solids, and obey them.

Now, onto the recommendations:

First: The Diesel Smanya Striped Short Sleeve Woven shirt. This shirt is perfect for that "casual but not totally causal" look that everyone seems to be enamored with these days. It's got the micro stripe that I'm a fan of, and this would be a perfect shirt to pair with the grey pants I'd praised the other day. There is only one real issue with this shirt to my eye: epaulets. Yep, those silly little button tabs on each shoulder that are all the rage these days are infesting all the good shirts. It's just senseless embellishment, unless you're a decorated military officer. And if you're a decorated military officer, you don't shop at Urban Outfitters. However, this shirt is currently 50% off, so I might even look the other way on the epaulets or just rip them off, since that's such a steal.

Up next is the Salt Valley Western Shirt. I couldn't be more into Western shirts these days. They tend to be wonderfully comfortable, durable, and designed with a large enough patterned plaid that even the more "ample sized gentlemen" like myself look good in them. Long sleeves and short sleeve both look good, and you can wear any western shirt open over a t-shirt and have it look pretty awesome. At $44, it isn't terribly pricey, but it certainly isn't cheap; still, you just have to keep in mind the broad array of possibilities of this shirt.

Third is the short sleeved plaid shirt. This might well be the most wearable and timeless of all men's shirt styles, other than dress shirts, naturally. Short sleeve plaid shirts can be worn almost any time, and usually come in lighter tones, which make them the perfect summer day choice. They look good under sweaters, blazers, and sweatshirts alike. They've been worn throughout the years, popularized by Eddie Haskell and Richie Cunningham, and in our modern times, it's not uncommon to see Brad Pitt or Jake Gyllenhaal wearing one in their off hours. What's even better is that the Lark & Wolff short sleeve button-down by Steven Alan is currently 33% off. For just $40, you can own a shirt that you can wear all the time.

Finally, the easiest shirt to wear. Even its name hints at it's simplicity: the Updated Basic Shirt from American Rag. On sale for 25% off the retail price, this shirt goes with everything. It's a "pretty much" solid pattern, so it can be worn with striped or patterned pants, it's formal enough to wear with a tie, but casual enough to be worn open. It can be tucked or un-tucked. Sleeves up, sleeves down - it doesn't matter. This shirt will pretty much look good no matter what you do to it. The main reason I choose this specific shirt, however, is that it has contrast stitching, so it breaks up the otherwise solid looks that most every other button-down shirt has. It's subtle, but it really does make a difference.

So there you have it. If there are any button-down styles I have forgotten, please don't hesitate to let me know. If there are fashion rules I have overlooked, you benefit both me and your fellow readers by bringing them to my attention. So now get out there and look really good!   

I'm going to be brief yet again, but today was the first time in months that some of us here at Ebates had a "basketball lunch". Yes, it is exactly what it sounds like; instead of going to the lunch room, we go to a local basketball court and squeeze in a few games of hoops instead. Despite the fact that I haven't played in probably a year or two, and despite the fact that I'm sure my knees will hate me tomorrow, I still have to recommend a little excess activity for the weekend. Remember, the weather could go foul any day now (or for some of you, it already has), so if you are able, this is the perfect chance to squeeze in a little extra fun: shoot some hoops, throw around the football, go to the batting cages, or even just hit the golf links. Whatever your sport, go out and have some fun -- you'll feel better for doing it! Luckily for you, here at Ebates, we have a great selection of sports stores, all of which can be found in our Sports & Outdoors category. From the leading names in sports super-stores, to lesser-known specialty merchants, you can find darn near anything you could want to have some fun this weekend and every weekend following.

Looking to save a bundle on your next electronics purchase? Then don't wait for this doubly-sweet deal to pass you by. Tech for Less, one of Ebates' leaders in refurbished and open-box items, is our Daily Double for today! Instead of the usual 3% Cash Back you get every other day of the week, today you can save a cool 6% on any and all purchases. Click on over and take a peek at their deep discounts on refurbished TVs, computers, cell phones, and more! If you're worried about getting a factory refubished item that has been looked over twice to ensure it works correctly, Tech for Less also has a wide range of brand new products as well. Quite frankly, no other similarly-stocked merchant's Cash Back even comes close, so lock in those huge savings ASAP!

One of my favorite stores on Ebates is Bluefly. Allie and I have featured many a product from this online retailer because of their vast selection of fantastic designer items at amazing prices, plus 3% Cash Back. They also have a wonderful blog that features great tips on style updates, fashion show reviews and today, they posted this.

Here we are again. It's Friday, and like all good relationships, I've been looking forward to seeing you here most of the week. Time is a factor, so I'm really just going to run down the list as quickly as I can, and remind you that if you click on Max Cash or the Free Shipping Truck, you will go straight to the rundown of ALL the free shipping offers that are nearing expiration.  So here we go...

Friday, October 17th
- Get Free Shipping plus save 10% on gift packs! Exclusive LeapFrog Offer!

Saturday, October 18th
- Free NEXT BUSINESS DAY SHIPPING on all HP ink, toner and paper from the HP Home & Home Office Store

Sunday, October 19th
- Free Expedited Ground Shipping on Orders of $65+ with Code SCARE65 at Costume SuperCenter
- Kiehl's is giving you the chance to enjoy complimentary shipping with any purchase of $45 or more with Code OCTOBER08
- Free Shipping on all orders at Origins with Code FreeShipLS
- Free Shipping on Saks.com orders of $200+! Use code SAKSFS (Note: this coincides perfectly with the 20% off sale at Saks right now!)
- Free Standard Shipping On Any order from Shu Uemura, enter SHU10 at checkout.

Tuesday, October 21st
- Free expedited shipping on NFL jerseys at Modell's!

Wednesday, October 22nd
- Enjoy free shipping on orders of $200 or more at Bloomingdale's!  Code SHIPOCT (exclusions apply)

And, to give you plenty of advance notice, Nordstrom is offering free shipping with the purchase of a pair of shoes ending Monday, October 27th!


So, in the words of Poppy, "Shop on!"

Unless you've been living under a rock these days, you've heard all about green living. "Sustainable products," "carbon footprint," and "eco-friendly" are commonly heard phrases, yet it may be a little confusing to understand what they all mean. When it comes to sustainable clothing, there are two major factors to consider.

The first is the material being used. The whole idea behind sustainable fashion is to take naturally occurring fibers such as cotton or hemp, and turn them into textiles without using environmentally damaging chemicals. This adorable tote from Beau Soleil is made from organic denim and features handles made from recycled rope. Not only is it environmentally friendly, but it's also city chic. This tote is large enough to do the weekly food shopping, and cute enough to wear everyday.

The second thing in considering whether or not an item is sustainable are the conditions under which it was made. This bag was manufactured in an eco-friendly mill using fair trade practices. If that doesn't make you feel good enough, then how about spending less than $30 and getting 3% Cash Back?

For more info on living a green and chic life go to EcoChick.ca.

Looking for more Ebates stores that cater to eco-friendly living?

For organic clothing, and natural cleaning products: www.gaiam.com

For green and natural beauty products: www.drugstore.com

For eco-friendly designer clothing: www.shopbop.com

Shop at Saks.com starting today through Sunday October 19, 2008 and receive 20% off your entire order of clothes, shoes, and accessories. You can also save 15% on jewelery, cosmetics, and fragrance. I will be honest, because I would never want to mislead a person who will get as excited as I did when I happened upon this sale; there are quite a lot of exclusions, including most premier designers. However, many other fantastic fashions items are fair game for the discount; J Brand Jeans, Vince, Theory, Alexander Wang, Diane Von Furstenberg, and many others. Plus, 15% off beauty... and beauty never goes on sale! I will take what I can get and pick up a refill of my favorite Jo Malone fragrance with 15% off savings and 3% Cash Back. And while I'm at it I will enjoy the 20% off a Vince Ombre Cashmere Sweater I've been eyeing.

Use CodeSAKSFF8 at checkout to apply dicscount. Also, orders over $200 qulaify for free shipping with code SAKSFS.

Since 1999, Design Within Reach has been a destination for those seeking more than just furniture, lighting, or home decor. More of an art dealer than a furniture store, Design Within Reach is the number one place to buy a "fully licensed classic". In layman's terms that means the ability to purchase an item from the company who holds the original patent, thus eliminating shoddy replicas or bad knockoffs.

A walk through the store is like taking a class on design history, and their website has the biographies of over 100 designers, some classic, some contemporary. Looking for the infamous Eames chair? They've got it. Wondering where to get the Tolomeo lamp? They've got that as well. In fact, Design Within Reach has just about everything including biodegradable household cleaners.

Solay Simple Cleaning Products are a great example of green cleaning. Solay Simple combines natural ingredients with 100% Himalayan salt for a product that is non-toxic, yet just as effective as the other more caustic cleaners. Priced between $5-24, Solay Simple is an inexpensive way to free your household of cancer causing chemicals. Salt has been used as a cleaning agent for thousands of years. More modern uses include getting stains out of clothing and de-greasing cast iron pots and pans. Although salt may seem like just a flavor enhancer, it has a very long and complicated history. Want to know more? This book, aptly named Salt, can be found at Barnes & Noble, where 4% Cash Back is the name of the game. Add 3% Cash Back at Design Within Reach, and watch the savings grow.

For more info on living green go to GreenLivingOnline.com.

With all the hubbub surrounding Tuesday's Apple notebook event, you may be wondering what's so special about the new MacBooks hitting Apple stores today. In order to truly appreciate the buzz, you have to put the past few years into perspective. Many of the revisions to the MacBooks and MacBook Pros over the last few years have been minor updates to the hardware - new processors, added bonuses like backlit keyboards, and little stability touches that haven't really demanded an upgrade. Tuesday's revelations, however, just might be enough for even the most casual Mac give their checkbook a second glance.

So why exactly should you drop the big bucks on a new MacBook? For starters, all three of Apple's laptop models are now greener, meaner, and leaner. Aside from the $999 "budget" MacBook, all three main designs of the MacBook now feature a chassis made of a single piece of high grade aluminum. On top of being both stronger and lighter than anything manufactured in previous generations, the new case designs are also greener and include more "environmentally responsible" components inside and out. When this casing design was first pioneered on the MacBook Air, it surprised everyone with its impressive strength and durability. Now that the technology has made the transition to the MacBook, you can expect your main laptop to almost literally survive everything you can throw at it.

On top of the new case, the new MacBooks feature a glass trackpad with multi-touch support, allowing you to make gestures with multiple fingers to execute certain commands. For example, using four fingers to "push away" the trackpad makes the MacBook show the desktop, while doing the opposite motion towards brings all your open windows back to the desktop. More notably, the new glass trackpad is also one giant button. Instead of constantly going back down to the bottom of the pad to click like a normal mouse, you can simply push anywhere on the pad's surface to click as usual. You can even configure it for easy right-click access, answering the calls of annoyed PC converts who didn't believe in using two-fingered clicks. It also includes a new, extra vibrant glossy LED blacklit display, a faster processor, and an upgraded graphics card that blows the last generation's out of the water. Even the MacBook Air got a subtle update that includes an optional larger solid-state hard drive option, more powerful processor, and graphics card which now come standard in every box.

All in all, the new MacBook is the upgrade many prospective users have been waiting for. Even though the pricing may be a little bit more than some might like to pay, the overall quality of the build not-so-subtly screams "you get what you pay for." And if you think you just might be ready to take the plunge and pick up a new computer, be sure to save money the only way you can - by going through Ebates.

If you've ever looked for Apple products in a store or on the internet, you've probably noticed how their prices rarely fluctuate from one vendor to the next. While the price of a Toshiba or Acer laptop may depend on what website you go to, 90% of Apple products only go on sale when they're refurbished or outdated. Whether you chalk it all up to global price conspiracy or a shrewd marketing scheme, the simple fact is Ebates is one of the only ways to actually save money on the brand new Apple MacBooks, MacBook Pros, and everything else in the Apple store. Don't forget to lock in Apple's student discount if you're a student, or if the Mac you're buying is intended for a student; it can literally save you hundreds of dollars. Regardless, be sure to keep your eyes on the blog for future MacBook hands-on impressions and product reviews, and feel free to let us know your personal impressions in the comments below!

I am a commitment-phobe when it comes to beauty products. I am always sure there is something better out there and I will leave my trusty favorites in search of a superior item. I usually come back, but I have to try everything else to be positive. When I stumbled upon The Lash Stash sampler at Sephora, I knew I had to get my hands on it. It comes with ten mini-sized best-selling mascaras, so you don't have to commit to just one until you have tried them all. It sells for just $35 (it is an $85 value) with 4% Cash Back. This item makes for a great gift and will bring smiles to the face of any woman you originally thought of buying chocolates for (unless it's your wife, then most often, neither are appropriate). I am picking up a couple; one for myself, one for my best friend, and one for my mom's stocking; apparently "beauty junkie" is genetic.

I know it sounds absurd, but I love pinatas more than most people. I suppose it's rational; it combines some of my favorite things: spending time with friends, eating candy, and hitting things with sticks. Plus, you don't usually see a pinata unless it's a party. However, beyond my love for pinatas, I had never given much thought to them. I never thought about the complex thought process that goes into picking out the perfect pinata for the occasion, or even where one is supposed to purchase a pinata.

Now I finally have an answer, and that answer is Pinatas.com.

I mean, come on; who wouldn't want to take a broom handle to that delightfully evil looking little clown?

So I have found a mecca for pinatas for all occasions: birthdays, Thanksgiving, Christmas, Purim, St. Patrick's Day, Easter, even Mardi Gras!  What's even better is the fact that not only are these pinatas reasonably priced, they also earn you 6% Cash Back on every purchase.

Also, don't let the name fool you, pinatas.com also has a number of other various party supplies, and currently has an entire page dedicated to Halloween. You can get masks and decorations (yes, including Halloween pinatas) at up to 40% with their Halloween Discounts sale.

Now that's more savings than you can shake a stick at!

Behind the scenes of great style are good basics: t-shirts, camis, collared blouses, and great fitting, minimalist sweaters. Unfortunately, good t-shirts are the most often overlooked essential out of that bunch. They are essential for layering, perfect for stylish yet comfortable weekend wear, and can add an element of casual sophistication to dressier items, making these items more everyday appropriate. Thus, the tee makes it possible to get the most wear out of all items in your wardrobe.

The most useful styles are as follows: a classic short sleeve crew, a long-sleeve v-neck, and a tee with a touch of detail (obviously to suit your personal taste). Currently, Tobi is having a sale on t-shirts by James Perse. As a self-proclaimed t-shirt connoisseur, I can tell you that if you are looking for a t-shirt that will fit perfectly and the integrity of the fabric will last through a thousand washes, this is the brand for you. I recommend the Vintage Crew Neck T-Shirt (pictured, right), now on sale for $38 with 5% Cash Back.



Target has the perfect long sleeved v-neck for just $9.99. This particular piece is ideal because the v-neck complements the long sleeve, so that you’re not too covered but the v is also modest and appropriate for everyone.

As for the fashion tee, I am going to leave that up to you. My pick is this Kain Label Pocket Tee from Shopbop.  It’s made of a super-soft and refined-looking modal and silk blend that pairs nicely with skinny jeans and tones down a mini-skirt. The tee sells for $88 with 3% Cash Back. While the $88 price tag seemed a little steep at first, I quickly realized that the quality of the t-shirt warrants the price, and since I wear it at least two times a week, the cost per wear is virtually nothing. Enjoy the wardrobe-building satisfaction of picking up a few great tees and sing the praise of these unsung heroes with some Cash Back in your pocket tee.

If there are any men reading this right now...consider yourself lucky, because I am going to teach you something very important about women. We do not "love" lingerie. Like it? Sure. Love it? No.

Why does your wife or girlfriend get excited when you show up with that little bag? Because it's a gift! There could be salad tongs in that bag and we'd be happy. Just the fact that a man has gone out of his way to buy us something is good enough. We're women, after all. We know not to expect too much. With that being said, most of us try to have a few nice bras, undies, and weird contraptions to wear to bed; but now that the temperature is dropping, don't expect us to prance around in next to nothing. It's cold outside, and my bedtime attire consists of flannel pants, thermal socks, and a stained sweatshirt. Do I look homeless? Yes. Do I care? No.

Although I can be pretty stubborn in my dressing for comfort, the looks of disgust from my boyfriend have finally forced me to consider upgrading my sleepwear. "Stop wearing my clothes to bed, you look like an old man" is a commonly heard phrase. "But I'm comfortable." I whine."Look, there's a hole in the sleeve, and you can see my elbow. That should be enough!"

Apparently not.

My solution was to find less horrific yet comfortable sleepwear, and where else but Fig Leaves can such items be found? Besides the obvious bras and undies, Fig Leaves is a mecca for cozy sleepwear, robes, and slippers. This  Eberjey cami comes in a soft modal material, and the lace trim is cuter than the usual coffee stains on my sweatshirts. This cami is part of a three piece set featuring matching bottoms and a chemise. I earned 6% Cash Back at Fig Leaves, making it my new favorite store. Now that I have mastered the comfy-cute approach to sleepwear, my next goal is to learn how to drive a stickshift. Well... maybe not.

In life, as in fashion, I tend to focus on the details and forget the big picture. I recently finished paying off several traffic tickets accumulated due to expired car registration, and I felt like a weight had been lifted off my shoulders. I was so pleased with my responsibility (not to mention escaping the dreaded boot) that I forgot to take care of the original problem: the registration. A week after clearing my name, I was back where I started, spending money on the same thing, never seeming to get anything accomplished. My shopping habits tend to be much the same way, with my eye always going toward the same garments. If only I could take a minute and stop myself I would have probably realized that just like the parking tickets, I was repeating the same mistakes over and over. Instead of going to instant thrillers (blouses, tanks, belts) I should think about what will thrill me now and later. For me, this item is my Mike and Chris handbag. It's supple black leather with utilitarian pockets, and it really adds instant chic to my outfits. I still receive compliments two years after having purchased it.

Yes, a handbag is like the icing on the fashionista's cake. A great bag can take an outfit from "whatev" to "wow", so I decided that instead of adding bulk to an already exploding closet, I was going to buy one really amazing handbag. Considering the fact that I have quite a collection of duffel-sized bags, I decided to get something smaller and a touch daintier. I'm all about stretching my dollar (hello..I work for Ebates) this Lauren Merkin Bag from Shopbop does just that. The detachable strap turns it from Sunday flea market to Friday night date in a snap. I love how the extra long strap makes pulling it over heavy winter coats a breeze, and there's no constant tugging at the shoulder. What I also love is how it's on sale for just $175, so it's almost like you're paying $88 for a clutch, and $88 for a long strap bag, they just happen to be the same purse. In addition to finding this deal,  there's also 3% Cash back to be had. Considering all the goods on sale at Shopbop right now, all that Cash Back will add up fast, although not as fast as the meter maids can dish out tickets.

Life is generally about looking for answers, both simple and complex. We humans are always looking for our questions to be determined. Some people look to the stars to guide them. If you are one of those people, or if you are not and are just looking for some entertainment to perk up your day, I encourage you to check out Beauty.com's Beauty Horoscope. You can find out which products will make you feel gorgeous depending on your astrological sign. I am a Taurus. My beauty horoscope tells me that romance has been on the back burner, is about to pick up and  recommends buying Oscar Blandi's Olio di Jasmine, a restorative hair serum that imparts long-lasting shine and controls flyways. It's actually a fairly appopriate choice, as I did just get a haircut and lately I have been more concious about hair products. And, well, lets just say that I always welcome a little bit of romance in my life. Get your horoscope, shop for an impressive list of great products with 6% Cash Back and look good while you seek out answers to life's perplexing questions.

The worldwide web is quite an interesting place full of wonderful and sometimes bizarre things. Ebates is like this as well, and with over 1000 merchants, the things you can find are unbelievable. I have come across so many amazing things that I thought I should dedicate one blog per store. Huge feat? Yes. Huge pay(cash)back? You bet. I spend a good portion of my day stumbling upon jaw-dropping items such as this Stag Horn Mirror which, strangely enough, I found at American Blinds.com. This rustic mirror features a natural ivory and brown finish with silver leaf detailing. The horns look as though they have been welded together by some medieval knight, which I surprisingly love. What's even more surprising is that my original search started with wallpaper (probably why the name is American Blinds, Wallpaper, and More).
Once on the site, it didn't take long for me to realize just how extensive and varied the site actually was despite it's homepage being filled with, well, blinds. Not only does AmericanBlinds.com feature hundreds of wallpaper options, but they also stock draperies, rugs, sconces, and a huge selection of wall art. The inventory is so extensive that it's sure to appeal to any taste, no matter how unique. Stop by and take a look, and while you're at it, enjoy getting 3% Cash Back!

Well hello there, fine friends of yore! Today's tech update may be a little old fashioned for some, but with the holiday season slowly creeping up around the corner, there's never a better time to wind down (or wind up?) with some archaic electronics. Now, I'm using the term "electronics" rather loosely here, as there are obviously no electrical components stored inside a music box's kitschy little chassis. However, as an arguable predecessor to programmable electronics, Hammacher Schlemmler's "Santa's Music Box" is a neat way of taking it back to what antebellum hipsters might call "Ye Olde School."

For those of you who haven't spent much time taking apart tiny musical contraptions, music boxes work similarly to the early computers and punch card machines of yesteryear. They produce sound by rotating a metal cylinder with metal pins on it, which strike the tuned "teeth" of a steel comb. Depending on which teeth are struck (and which teeth are omitted), a certain note or sound is played on the steel comb. If you were to look at a diagram of which teeth were ticked or left unticked, you would get a binary diagram very similar to the inner workings of the computers or yesteryear - namely full of ones (ticked) and zeros (unticked). While I'm not going to outlandishly claim that music boxes are the direct ancestors of modern day computers, it's always curious to see similarities in ancient technology.

Enough of the tech talk already! Let's get back to what's truly important here: Santa's adorable cottage. This little scene depicts Santa's workshop as it kicks into high gear for the holidays, complete with music, Santa, and more Elfin tomfoolery than you can shake a candy cane at. As an added bonus afforded by modern technology, the orchestra is powered by two AA batteries - no cumbersome cranking required! Currently on a 50% off early bird special, Santa's Music Box will undoubtedly be one of the cutest centerpieces you'll find this holiday season. For only $25 (with an additional 6% Cash Back from Ebates), it's hard to say no to such a precious reminder of yesterday's musical technology.

Sometimes, I find myself feeling like I need something. Just like people crave ice cream or cookies, I crave a new addition to my wardrobe. Lately, pin-pointing what will satisfy me has become more and more difficult, partly because my priorities and tastes seem to be changing. The last time I felt this way, I bought a classic pair of trousers and felt very satisfied for a reasonable amount of time. So, perhaps, I could fulfill my urge with another great pair of pants. I found these City-fit wool gabardine trousers at JCrew for 54% off, now just $59. These are the perfect pants for me; they boast a modern, slim cut that will be flattering and will easily fit right into my existing wardrobe.  Plus, they are well made. The pants are crafted in a fully lined wool-gabardine with quality interior piping at the waistband and are available in three neutral colors. The city trouser also comes in petite, tall, regular, and long torso, which will ensure the perfect fit regardless of your body type. Two styles of matching blazers are also on sale if you are in the market for a great suit.

After putting a pair of these pants into my shopping cart, I immediately felt satisfied. Nothing quite fulfills my shopping urges like buying something that I need and that know I will wear repeatedly, and my satisfaction is only enhanced when the item is on sale and earns me 2% Cash Back.

I may not necessarily be the most stylish of employees here at Ebates, but I like to think that I generally do pretty well. While I tend to fall into the rut of "t-shirt, jeans, and a zip-up hooded sweatshirt", I still have a fairly discerning eye when it comes to men's style. While Allie and Poppy might not completely agree with that statement, I've had handfuls of friends compliment my taste in men's apparel.

If there is one word that best describes my personal style, it is "retro". You know what I'm talking about: actual fitted cuts, materials like houndstooth or sharkskin, and all the glorious hats that have been tragically overlooked in the past 25 years. There is an important distinction to be made here: while not all retro clothing is vintage, pretty much all vintage clothing is retro. While I love finding vintage clothes there are two problems for me personally when seeking out honest-to-goodness vintage clothes:

1) It's rare to find vintage clothes for people who are over six feet tall and over two hundred pounds
2) If I can find something that I would actually want to wear and actually comes close to fitting me, it usually costs about half of my monthly salary.

It is exactly these reasons that I love "vintage-inspired" clothing. It provides discriminating users the chance to pick up vintage looks in an entire size run, and costs a mere fraction of what I make in a day.

A perfect example of the vintage-inspired clothing that I love so dearly is this Plaid Jacket from Old Navy. Some years back, I was browsing at a vintage boutique, and I stumbled across a plaid jacket just like this that oozed quality and comfort. I was inspired to see that it was listed as XL, and quickly tossed my sweatshirt aside to try it on. I put one arm in the sleeve, pulled, and the sleeve ended about halfway between my wrist and elbow. I'd fallen victim to the old trap: what was XL in the 1950s falls somewhere just below Large in our modern sizing.  With the memory of that jacket still floating around in the back of my mind, I was thrilled to find this when looking for nothing in particular at OldNavy.com this afternoon. This subdued plaid is timeless, and the 100% cotton construction gives me hope that this coat will hold up for the entire duration of the time this jacket is in style (which is pretty much forever).

What's better is that it's currently 1/3 off the original price, and will only set you back $30, and you're getting 3% Cash Back in the process. So jump on this deal while supplies last - I know that I got either the very last in my size!

I have a confession to make: I am an addict. Every morning, my life revolves around getting a fix before I start going into withdrawals by early afternoon. At the first sip, my body sighs a breath of relief. A sensation of euphoria rushes over me, and the smell alone sends my brain into Pleasureville.

Ah....coffee......

There is nothing more pleasing to me than to have that first cup of coffee. Coffee in the morning with a bagel, coffee in the evening with dessert. I love coffee so much that it is making me broke, not too mention the lines at those major coffee establishments take forever, and the baristas inevitably always mess up my order. Yes I love coffee, and when walking through a fancy department store I always stop by the espresso machine section hoping, just hoping, that I will find one less than $500. Needless to say, I haven't found one yet. That is until I discovered that illy caffe offers espresso memberships. Yes, you read that right: Espresso memberships. You're probably assuming an espresso membership entails monthly purchasing of coffee, which is true. However, would you ever assume that an espresso membership also gets you a Francis Francis X5 Espresso Machine for just $150? Or that it also includes espresso cups with matching saucers?

Imagine how different your life would be if you no longer had to wait twenty minutes for average coffee. No more lines or spending all that money; your coffee would be delivered every month to your front door. Instead of leaving earlier for work, you could relax and sip on Italian espresso while watching the morning news. Do I even have to mention how incredibly chic the machine is, or how it adds a touch of class to any kitchen? Didn't think so, but I will add that not only does this make an incredible gift, but you can also expect to receive 6% Cash Back. With all the extra money saved, you could fly yourself to Italy for your next cup of espresso.

Remember folks, there are only

If you're not currently in the market for a new digital camera, chances are you could use a little storage upgrade. With today's massive 10+ Megapixel pictures and movies clogging up your camera's tubes, sometimes you just need a whole bunch of space to save everything you've ever wanted to. Enter today's cheap and convenient storage solution: the Kingston 8GB SD card!

If your camera is like most peoples, it's full of stuff. Pictures from last month's wedding, shots from your friends party last weekend, and probably a few snapshots from that weekend getaway a few years back. After all, you never know when you'll need to show a complete stranger your slideshow of 400 pictures, so why worry about cleaning it off and starting anew? With the 8GB Kingston SD card, you'll never need to. With enough space to hold around 2500+ full-size pictures, or about an hour of quality video from a 7.1 megapixel camera, you'll have enough space to last you a lifetime. Sure, that may seem a little excessive now, but think about the future. Not only will you be able to feasibly keep every picture you shoot through the end of the year, but this little card will likely be large enough for years to come.

Ready to expand? Head on over to Buy.com today and pick up one of the best SD deals out there. At only $22 for 8GB of portable space, you simply can't let this one pass by. Grab one before they go out of stock!

There is not much that is more exciting than two beauty wonders combining forces. Take OPI, a world leader in professional nail care and Sephora, the home of all things wonderful and Mecca to the beauty product obsessed. These two forces have joined up and put out a collection of nail polish, hand treatments, and nail care that is sold online and in Sephora stores nationwide. So now, when you are shopping for everything else in your regime, you can pick up all the things you need to keep your hands and feet perfectly polished and moisturized. They have an amazing collection of colors from classic, vibrant reds and neutral pale pinks to the most trendy, must-have nail colors of the season, like the perfectly named Sephora by OPI nail colour MetroChic. This neutral grey has caused average, reasonable women to turn into Sephora stalkers (guilty) and has also resulted in an ebay price-hiked frenzy. But don't worry, the color is back in stock and available at Sephora.com for $9. I just got mine this weekend. The formula applies consistently and easily and provides super glossy, rich color. I topped the nail polish with the brand's high-gloss top coat, also for $9, and finished it all off with Nail Colour Drying Drops ($14), that completely dries polish in under 5 minutes while providing nourishing jojoba oil and vitamin E for healthy, salon quality nails. For about $30, you can have shiny, perfect nails in a lust worthy color and 4% Cash Back in your beautifully polished hands. For more tips on bringing the salon home and saving some money click here.

    I was never good at math. In fact, I had a rocky relationship with just about all my math teachers throughout school. I will publicly apologize now for my bad attitude…. was it kind of endearing? I'm sure they would be proud now to see how much I use my math skills every day. Like, how much would this cost? How much cash back will I earn?  It didn’t take long for me to figure out that the Daily Double, an astounding 6% Cash Back at Nordstrom, was an amazing deal. Factor in a bunch (very technical term) of fabulous sale items now with new markdowns, and I have happened upon a simple equation for instant style with fantastic savings.  Case in point is this Karen Zambos Vintage Couture Scallop Blouse, now 60% off and just $103.90 with 6% Cash Back. This is a perfect example of a timeless style update at a great deal. The beautiful neutral hue will compliment all the basics in your wardrobe, and the vintage inspired cut will look fresh and new for years to come. This would be great tucked into a pencil skirt for a sophisticated lady-like look or paired with jeans under a leather jacket for an edgy "night out" ensemble.

Put the blouse under a wool blazer with a modern twist like this Semantiks “Collection Wool” Jacket, and you have the foundation for many great outfits. With a change of the bottoms, shoes, and accessories these two pieces will make many variations of work looks and sassy outfits for nights out. The jacket is now 40% off and is priced just under $100 with 6% Cash Back. The wool and Lycra blend will keep its shape and provide the most flattering fit; while the style is trendy enough to make a fashion-forward statement, yet subtle enough to wear all the time.

It really doesn't take a math wiz to appreciate the jaw-dropping deals available at Nordstrom with the Ebates Daily Double. Shop today and take advantage of the 6% Cash Back Daily Double. It feels even more exciting to save big on style-updating wardrobe enhancers like a great blouse or chic blazer. Shop for many more great deals on not only clothing, but accessories and shoes as well!

Whenever I know of a sale going on at a particular store, I always pick an appropriate day to go, and hope that the imaginary fabulous item I envision finding hasn't been purchased before me. In other words, I stress over being too late and walking into a picked-over store. Online shopping creates even more stress, since I know the adorable bootie I am secretly coveting is being coveted by thousands of others. Today, the Prada boots I wanted from Bluefly sold out in ten minutes - literally! I didn't even have time to pull out my credit card, when I see there is only a size 10 left. Well unless my feet plan on growing three sizes, I'm out of luck.

I wanted to cry. Actually I wanted to throw a temper tantrum, but I though it might seem a tad weird to my co-workers. My sadness was lifted, however, when I saw that Smart Bargains is pricing all their boots and handbags under $99. From this Saturday 10/11 to Monday 10/13 enjoy even further savings on great items like this Carlos Santana Boot. The side zippers are a touch rock and roll, and the high heel will get my petite frame into the nose bleed section. At only $59.99 they're 53% off the retail. Huge savings like this make me calm and happy. That is, until the next sale arrives...

Here in San Francisco, the weather is cooling down a little, and that means that it's a good weekend to stay inside, keep warm, and do some good old fashioned online shopping. Halloween is almost here, and a number of our merchants are offering sales on all your Halloween needs. This is a perfect chance to stock up on candy corn, costumes, and candles. Get a candy dish with a hand that pops out of it. Buy a costume for your pet. You know you're running low on imitation plastic tombstones. Have you checked your supply of fake blood for this year? How about bucketloads of candy? Whatever you're looking to get, now is the time. Plus there's even a way to win even more money by getting into the Halloween spirit.

Here's the plan: we just launched our Halloween Costume Competition, and this is the perfect chance for you to really cash in. What you do is find a great sale and buy a great costume from any number of our merchants, take a compelling picture of it, and submit it for the competition. If your photo wins, you'll get a $300 gift card to Snapfish. It's a chance to make money just for getting in the Halloween spirit.

So stay in this weekend, do some shopping, and snap some pictures - it might make you $300 richer! If you need inspiration, just tell yourself "I need to take a picture that is better than this."

If you are planning on taking advantage of any Columbus Day sales; I highly recommend checking out  the Frederick's of Hollywood sale. Until Monday, Save 50% on over 100 styles sitewide. Shop bras for $19.99, 6 for $20 panty specials, blowout priced clothing, and many more amazing deals. To top it all off, receive $10 off a $ 75 order, $20 off a $100 order, and $40 off of $150! Take advantage of these enormous savings on clothing, shoes and accessories, undergarments, and even sexy Halloween costumes! Shop now, these deals will not last.

This week we've been looking at printers big and small, trying to get an idea of what might work best for your personal setup. On Monday we examined a solid, "mini all-in-one" solution that did most anything that a home printer would need to do. Wednesday saw our gentle giant of a "true" all-in-one that prints, faxes, copies, and does practically everything you would want, aside from cooking you breakfast. Today, we focus on the simple home network.

If you have a home network that's dying for a little printer action, the HP Deskjet 6940 would love to be your perfect companion. With a simple networking interface, 4800dpi color resolution, and lightning-fast printing speeds of up to 36 pages per minute, the HP Deskjet prints like a champ. Now it isn't quite the Swiss army knife that some all-in-ones might be, but if you're looking for something to print your documents and do it swiftly and clearly, it's hard to go wrong with the 6940. You can easily print brochures, letters, envelopes, and more, as well as getting full-color pictures that look surprisingly clear for the speed. It even has the option to print pictures from its included USB port, giving it more versatility than most printers three times its price.

Normally I would try and look around for different brands of products to showcase in the blog, but I just couldn't help myself when I came across this deal. Newegg.com is currently offering this printer for $79.99 with an additional $50 off coupon at the top of the page, making the printer $29.99 with free shipping! That's right -  a full $70 off the regular retail price! It's hard to look past as great deal as that, so pop on over to Newegg if you're in need of a solid, cheap networking printer.

    During tough economic times, one is forced to re-examine how you spend your dollar. In doing my own personal finance evaluation, I quickly realized that a huge chunk of my money was going to professional grooming services: waxing, manicures and hair color treatments. I think I can speak for most women out there and say that I am not alone. Women spend a lot of money on beauty treatments. After my self-evaluation, I started thinking; maybe I could start doing some of these things myself: at-home manicure, waxing, and hair color treatments. I will leave the hair cutting to the professionals; the result would be far too frightening, as I am not to adept with the scissors. But on the rest, I could save some serious money skipping a few beauty sessions a month. However, I need to invest in some good tools and products to bring the spa home to me.
First I will need a waxing kit. It is very important to select high quality wax - you definitely do not want to look like a bumpy, red mess. This Bliss ‘Road to no Hair’ set comes with their world-renowned poetic waxing kit, ingrown hair eliminating pads, and a moisturizing, regrowth-slowing lotion. The set sells for $106 at Bliss Spa with 4% Cash Back. This may sound like a lot; however, it comes with fantastic, spa quality products that will pay for itself when you skip just about two visits to a professional aesthetician.

For something a little easier on the pocketbook, this MS. Manicure Marvelous Minis Grooming 4 Essentials for Cuticle & Nails set sells for an amazing $ 3.50 at Drugstore.com, with 6% Cash Back. This mini-kit comes with every tool you need to keep your hands and feet presentable. It's very important to keep the nails looking clean and groomed (As I type this, I am looking down at my desperate nails). For under four dollars, you can bring the nail salon home and save a lot of money every month.

Another great at-home product is this new Frederic Fekkai Salon Color Kit. This color comes straight from the Fekkai salon color team and is the first salon-grade hair color available for use at home. Plus, the kit comes with a professional bowl and brush kit, pre-color treatment and post-color mask for extra conditioning and shine, so you really will bring the high-end color station to your bathroom sink! Offered in twenty expertly selected shades, each kit sells for $30, with 6% Cash Back at Beauty.com. Also, you can buy your manicure set and hair color in one cart thanks to the partnership between Drugstore.com and Beauty.com. Both ship for free, and you'll receive complimentary samples with each Beauty.com order, which is another great way to save money.

For just about $140, you can bring home the professional spa and save a lot of money. Shop on!

Greetings folks! This Friday looks to be particularly busy, so I'll cut right to the chase and give you the highlights of our free shipping deals for the week. Here goes:

Friday, October 10th
- American Eagle Outfitters is offering free shipping and returns on all bras, so lift and separate for a lot less.

- Looking for the perfect Halloween costume? Check out Costume Kingdom. If you spend $75 or more, everything will be shipped for free. Or if you're just looking to kill some time, look at their pet costumes - they'll have you in stitches.

- For the ladies, Draper's and Damon's currently has free shipping on everything with coupon code P1947. Treat yourself to a Fall makeover and have every part of every outfit sent to your doorstep at no extra cost.

Saturday, October 11th
- For you techies, Hewlitt Packard is helping you get what you want for less; through the end of the day Saturday the HP Home and Home Office Store is offering free next business day shipping on all HP ink, toner, and paper.

Sunday, October 12th
- Nike has free shipping on all orders over $100. Nike + Free Shipping = Need I say more?

- Spirit Halloween, much like the aforementioned Costume Kingdom, has free shipping on all orders $75 and up as well. The kicker? Through Sunday, they are also offering Double Cash Back, so you'll get 16% Cash Back as well as free shipping. What are you waiting for?

Monday, October 13th
- TomTom is offering free shipping on all GPS devices. Here's my only question about this deal: can a GPS system, a device that prides itself on directions and maps, get lost in the mail? Just something to think about...

Wednesday, October 15th
- Lancome continues it's long-standing string of great offers with free shipping plus a sample collection of beautiful Fall Color with any order of $35 or more. Just use coupon code JEWELS at checkout for your savings and your free gift.

As always, to get the full and complete listing of all the free shipping offers about to expire, just click on the image at the top of the page.

Bluefly is one of those sites that I often go to when I just want to shop. Their selection is so big that it's the perfect all-inclusive shopping destination. While on my obsessive hunt for the perfect coat, I once again found myself heading to Bluefly. Imagine my excitement when I see the bold lettering "Take An Extra 15% Off All Outerwear, Dresses, and Sweaters". Needless to say, I almost fell off my chair. Want an example of how good the savings are? Not only did I find a Michael by Michael Kors coat for 49% off the retail value, but I also found this gorgeous silk/linen blend sweater by Elie Tahari. While most sweaters can lose their shape, this one features a ruched waist and ruffled collar for added sweetness. Pair with a crisp button down shirt and some loose jeans for a feminine take on menswear.

When I was first told about FreshPair, I admit to making a snap assumption: I figured it was just another discount shoe website. But being the curious type, I had to go check it out for myself, and I  couldn't have been more wrong.

Turns out FreshPair is an online underwear retailer! After clicking around the site, I have to admit: I'm impressed. Despite the fact that I tend to be simplistic about my underpants, I was surprised that there were as many options and styles available on FreshPair. In addition to boxer, briefs, and banana hammocks, they also have an impressive collection of sleepwear, t-shirts and undershirts, and even socks! And that's just for the men!   

On the women's side, not that I spent much time looking or anything, there is a vast selection of women's underthings. Apart from the standard bras and panties, there is an array of shapewear, sleepwear, accessories, tee shirts, camis, sports bras, and all sorts of other activewear, even socks! 

Finally, on a slightly more serious note, I will tell you about the most impressive discovery I made while clicking around FreshPair: they ship everything for free as long as you're in the U.S. No matter how big or how small, how many or how few, they will ship it to your door at no extra charge. I don't know about you folks, but it really grinds my gears when I buy something that weighs next to nothing online, like a t-shirt, and end up paying over five dollars in shipping. Well, FreshPair has taken that into consideration, and you can now get all your unmentionables sent right to your doorstep for free! What could be better? Oh, right - getting 6% Cash Back when shopping with Ebates.

The picture to the right is my idea of a perfect closet. Everything has a nice home, and nothing is out of place. The sweaters are all tucked away, safe from moth balls, and the shoes are placed neatly on the shelving. In other words, this photo represents the opposite of my closet.

Aside from owning hangers and a very dilapidated shoe rack, my closet is a black hole in which things are lost forever. Great for the next renter of my apartment, not so great for me. If your closet is like that as well, fear not; there is a glimmer of hope, and that glimmer is The Container Store.

Not only do they stock storage solutions for every room in the house, but they also carry the amazing (and life saving) elfa Premier Shelving and Drawer System. This organizer's dream-come-true is made from walnut shelving and durable epoxy bonded steel. Even better than the chic look is the versatility. The entire system is able to be customized to your needs, thus making life much easier. For a limited time only, this shelving system is 25% off. Add that to 4% Cash Back, and you've got yourself a room full of savings.

For those of you who reside in studios (like half of San Francisco's population) then this Free Standing Reach-In Closet (also by elfa) is the perfect solution to all your storage problems. The beauty of this shelving system is that it is totally free standing, which means that it does not need to be mounted to a wall. This is perfect for renters with picky landlords, or those of us who are "installation challenged". This one is 25% off as well, or a savings of over $250. Don't waste money paying someone to organize for you, when you can do it alone, and for way less!

This coming Monday is Columbus Day. This, in American culture, translates to sales, sales, sales and a couple of noteworthy parades for the faithful observers of Columbus and his special day. Most of these sales are already rolling out in full force like a fleet of cleverly named ships, ready to explore the uncharted shopping season. Spearheading the fleet is the Macy’s Columbus Day sale, where eager shoppers can already save 20-50% plus values in just about every department in the store. This is a great time to shop and save big on a range of items for yourself before the guilt sets in and you realize it’s time to think about holiday shopping!

For those of you people out there who, like me, hate ironing, I’m thinking about picking up this handy Conair Compact Garment Steamer for only $34.99 with 4% Cash Back. This steamer includes high velocity steam jets set on a fixed T-Nozzle, which basically translates to "this steamer will get the wrinkles out of even the most bothersome, mistreated garments buried at the bottom of your laundry basket." Just take a look at that action shot to the left; who wouldn't want one of those?!?!   

If you're looking for something a little more opulent to treat yourself, most shoes are eligible for “buy more, save more” incentives, including these Nine West Heath Pumps, now 40% off and only $47. Plus, if you buy two or more pairs, you qualify for additional savings and of course, additional Cash Back.

So, avoid the crowds, enjoy free shipping on purchases over $99 with code FREE99, and earn Cash Back!

As you might have guessed from my post earlier this week, I take my music seriously. However, as a deal dude, it's hard for me to spend exorbitant amounts of money on products (which is why I'm more of a Koss PortaPro guy than a QuietComfort executive, but that's a blog for another day)  While those Sennheisers I triumphed on Tuesday can give you phenomenal sound anywhere, how about a little something you can slip into your pocket? And what about something for that little smartphone of yours? If you're looking for something that's affordable, portable, and tech savvy, the Maximo iMetal canalbuds just might be the ticket for you!

When I first got my grubby little paws on an iPhone, I knew that I wanted to upgrade from the little tin cans and wire that it originally came with. Sure, those white earbuds might scream "Mug Me!" in ways no other accessory can, but I was in the market for something with a little extra "oomph." I searched and searched all over the internet, but reports (and prices) for microphone-equipped headphones varied in ways I never expected. Some people claimed the V-Moda Vibe Duo's were the best they had ever heard, but many personal reviews noted they fell apart within weeks of normal usage. Others claimed that the Skullcandy earbuds stood the test of time, but didn't quite deliver on the bass end. I figured I'd take a chance on the iMetal Isolation headphones, since they were relatively cheap at $50 and reviewers said that they delivered on the low end. Like I said earlier, I enjoy my "oomph."

Although you might have to worry about the V-Moda's breaking down after a week or so of mild use, I can personally say that my pair of iMetal headphones have survived a good month of solid usage, and even a spin through the wash. Whoops! While I wouldn't personally recommend doing the latter to any pair of headphones, the fact that they still sound as good as they did when I first bought them after being partially submerged in water for a half an hour is an impressive feat. Their low end bass response has only gotten better as time has gone on, and the isolation they provide really does a great job at drowning out subway noise and keeping my music clear. Sure, they may leave a little to be desired in the treble range, but their level of isolation, bass response, and quality more than make up for that shortcoming.

If you don't particularly care for "inner-ear monitor" (or "canalbud") headphones, Maximo also makes a traditional earbud headphone for you to enjoy as well. Both varieties are also available in a much cheaper, microphone-less version at Buy.com, but that's really what makes these little 'phones so special. Considering their rugged durability, modest price, and exceptional bass, the Maximo iMetal Isolation headphones are a great choice for anyone looking for a solid pair of canalbuds for $55 shipped. Head on over to Buy.com, search for "iMetal", and give them a shot for yourself!

Monday marked the beginning of my search for great deals on solid printers that work well for different kinds of people. After all, a small business CEO and a hockey mom probably want two different things from their printers. Thankfully, Canon does a great job at covering every base possible with their Pixma line of printers, and today's item, the Pixma MX850, is no exception.

Featuring practically everything you could want from a home office solution, the Canon Pixma MX850 has more options than a Swiss army knife salesman. With a full-featured fax machine, printer, copier, scanner, photo printer, and  memory card reader, the MX850 is one of the few printers out there worthy of the title "all in one."

On top of simply having these functions, the MX850 actually excels at all of them. It copies at a rate of 31 pages per minute, can print photo lab quality pictures in seconds, scans images and documents at an impressive 4800 x 9600 resolution, and even has two separate trays for paper so you don't have to switch things up when printing pictures. It's the perfect printer for your home office, your small business, or just for your home. It's only real drawbacks are it's relatively large size and lack of built-in wireless networking, but even those qualms can hardly stand up to it's wealth of complete awesomeness.

Quite frankly, if you're looking for a printer to do everything you'd ever want it to, the Canon Pixma MX850 is perfect. It's even good enough to be rated Editors' Choice from PC Magazine, so if you're still on the fence when it comes this beautiful behemoth, give their review a look. It's currently on sale at Newegg.com for $40 off, making this feature-packed system only $159 with free shipping! Save time and money, and enjoy one of the best all-in-one solutions out there!

I know, I know, this isn't the bizarre or off-the-wall stuff I usually feature here in my "Did you know?" series, but this is a valuable PSA. Lucky Brand, the folks whose jeans have had you feeling lucky for years now, has just released their own line of watches. It should come as no surprise, I suppose, considering the ever-growing line of Lucky products.

For women, there are ten different styles to choose from, so you should be able to easily find the watch (or two...) that best matches your look. They have it all, from braided leather bands to antique-styled gold watches, all at affordable prices. For the men, selection is limited to four styles, but each does an excellent job of balancing timeless elegance with modern embellishment.

The really exciting part of this announcement is that these watches are all available today at the Lucky Brand Website, despite the fact that they won't be in stores for a few more weeks!  Plus, you will also be getting 2% Cash Back on all these watches through Ebates.

Click on either watch to go to the according pages.

I am a shopper with high expectations of my purchases. I want them to change my life. I realize that this may be an unrealistic point of view, setting myself up for shopping failure. Although, high expectations or not, I am usually pleased with my purchases yet somewhat disappointed when they don't change my life. So I am constantly looking for another fix. Whether it be a new beauty regime, new makeup, a new hair style (dangerous territory), or just an article of clothing, I want it to make me feel brand new. Lately, I have decided to do a complete shoe wardrobe overhaul. Shoe purchases are amazing because they actually can make your clothes look different; tired outfits feel new and (forgive me) put a little spring in your step.

For a limited time, Nordstrom is shipping all regular priced shoe purchases for free (enter code SHOES at checkout). They will even ship your entire order for free with the purchase of shoes. This is exciting for a multitude of reasons. One: as I can speak from experience, they do not ship your shoes on the 5-7 business day track. Its actually free 2 day shipping (so they arrive 3-4 days after order). This is exciting because if you have an event and find the perfect shoe, you don't need to add an extra $20 to your order for express shipping. So, fellow shopaholics, your instant gratification is actually, almost instant. Two: its essentially risk-free shopping. Nordstrom offers free exchanges by mail, low-cost returns ($6.00) or free in-store returns. Easy returning/exchanging is crucial for online shoe shopping. And I will save the best for last, 3% Cash Back. You can really rack up some money with a shoe-wardrobe overhaul.

I decided to think outside the (shoe)box and picked up a pair of these Sam Eldelman 'Melanie' Booties, for $138.95. They are right on point for this seasons shoe trends. The number one must-have shoe is some sort of ankle bootie. These have a moderately sized heel and will work with both dresses and pants, which is crucial for getting the most out of any new addition to your wardrobe.

* Offer Ends October 27, 2008

Through Monday October 13, SkinStore.com is donating a portion of every order to the Susan G. Komen Breast Cancer Foundation. This is a great time to shop; revamp your beauty regimen, pamper yourself, or stock up on your favorite products. You can contribute to shopping for a cure! This includes specially packaged "pink" products and regular items as well. One of my favorite special edition products is this DuWop Purse Your Lips Kit, available for $24 with 8% Cash Back (don't forget, you can also donate your Ebates Cash Back earnings to a charity of your choice here). This cute little DuWop kit comes with a stylish mini-purse filled with DuWop's perennial favorite, pink shimmer lip venom. 10% of the proceeds benefit CEW's Cancer and Careers, an organization that helps provide inspiration and insight to working women living with cancer.

SkinStore is the place to shop for great skincare products as well. This special edition skyn ICELAND 5 Day Detox Kit for Stressed Skin is available for $45. This product meets natural beauty standards and a portion of the proceeds benefit breast cancer research! Over the course of five days, this kit will completely restore balance to tired and irritated skin, and the result is nourished and glowing skin.
                         
So ladies, take care of yourselves and the ones you love with great skincare and beauty products while contributing to the betterment of women around the world!

She has been dubbed "Commander in Sheath" by Vanity Fair, and was featured in the April issue of Vogue as their "It" girl. Everywhere you look, Michelle Obama is winning over Americans with her streamlined silhouettes, and use of bold accessories. Her panache for oversized pearls, and 60s inspired frocks has led Andre Leon Talley (Editor At Large for Vogue) to compare her fashion sense to that of to Jackie 0. Whether dressing for the Democratic National Convention or various fundraisers, Michelle Obama arrives in style and has worn designs by Maria Pinto, Isabel Toledo, and Thakoon Panichgul to name a few. Despite her love for designer goods, Mrs. Obama is no stranger to bargain shopping. The Donna Ricco dress she wore on The View cost a mere $148, and sold out of White House-Black Market boutiques across the country. Due to high demand, the dress has been re-ordered, and as an Ebates member you'll enjoy saving 2% Cash Back! 

So go forth and save, America, and remember, looking great is your civic duty!

Register to Vote Here.

It only takes a 0.17 second Google search for "headphones" to realize just how many different personal listening contraptions there are out there. From "canalbuds" to professional DJ monitoring systems, earbuds to traditional on-ear sets, headphones run the gamut of in terms of shapes, sizes, and most noticeably, quality. With that said,  I personally recommend having a variety of different listening solutions at your fingertips whenever possible. After all, you might need something different when listening to music on the go, relaxing in the privacy of your own own home, or when casually strolling through perilous construction sites. While some headsets may only work well in certain circumstances, today's pick will sound phenomenal in any situation.

Amazing headphones are hard to find. Even though I'm no audiophile, I own about four different sets of headphones that each have their own respective pros and cons. When compared to the gentle giant pictured beside me, however, only one or two of them can even hope to come close. The Sennheiser HD 280 Professional Headphones are designed to be one of the last pairs of headphones you'll ever need, and undoubtedly one of the best you'll find anywhere for $99.

The Sennheiser HD 280 Professional Headphones offer a phenomenal range of frequency response, allowing you to hear subtleties in music that you've likely never noticed before. Equally impressive are its earcups with their "over ear," circumaural design that offers impressive amounts of sound isolation to keep your music exactly where it should be: in your ears.

Other headphones, like the $300 Bose QuietComfort, use a battery to power a "noise cancelling circuit" to keep external noise away from your listening. While they may not block out the deafening whirs when sitting atop a jet engine, the Sennheisers work all their magic through crafty design, meaning your music listening will never depend on a AAA battery to making your headphones work. On top of the music, these headphones also work great for immersing yourself in your favorite TV shows or movies, and even crumple down into a ball for compact travel. How clever is that?

Once going for $200 in stores, J&R now has the Sennheiser HD Professional Headphones for only $99 - a cool 50% off of the retail price. Pick up a pair with free shipping today and see what it's like to have crystal clear sound all around you. Once you've immersed yourself in these HD babies, it's doubtful you'll ever want to go back to those little white pack-in earbuds ever again.

Home decorating is much like getting dressed, in that it's all part of creating a fantasy. Home is the most wonderful place in the world, aside from Disney World. To me, home is all about escaping the real world and creating a getaway from everyday worries. Once I get home, it doesn't matter that it's pouring out and I just endured half an hour on a packed and smelly bus full of soaked and miserable people. What matters is that I am home, where it smells pleasant, it's warm, and I don't have to watch someone pick their nose for twenty minutes.

What better way to celebrate the comforts of home than with comfy items such as candles and throw blankets? This cashmere throw blanket is the perfect way to keep toasty, and if I may say so myself, the brown plaid design is ultra chic. Usually priced around $400, I found this at Bluefly for just $170.  At 4' x 6' in size, you'll have enough room to snuggle up with someone other than yourself.

    If aromatherapy is what you crave, then look no further than this 3 piece fragrance travel set from Nordstrom. Priced at less then $50, it features a candle, diffuser, and fragrance, all with girlie and romantic packaging. If business has you traveling all the time, just tuck these into their chic box and bring them along with you. It is far better for your hotel room to smell like the comforts of home, than the remainders of room service. Plus, receiving 3% Cash Back on both these items is very comforting for your wallet.

If you haven't hopped aboard the iPod or Zune bandwagon yet, you probably have a perfectly justified reason for staying out of the digital age for so long. Whether lofty price points have driven you away, or you're just afraid of digitizing your music collection, this little Sansa just may be your answer. For practically the same cost of a new CD, you can take a handful of your favorite albums with you everywhere with the SanDisk 2GB Sansa m250 Digital Audio Player.

Made by one of the leaders in flash drive technology, the SanDisk Sansa m250 has 2GB of space to take about 20+ albums (or around 500 songs) with you wherever you go. Since it's roughly the size of a credit card and about as thick as a stack of Post-It notes, it will easily fit in your purse or pocket for extended traveling. With an additional AM/FM radio player and voice recording capabilities, this $15 piece of technology packs more features than some players ten times its price. Even if you only use it a few times and don't care for it, or are looking for a little something to toss into your bag for special occasions, it's hard to go wrong with such an inexpensive option. Head on over to Buy.com, search for the "Sansa m250", and pick it up before someone else does for only $14.99 with free shipping!

The curiously named Naughty Monkey Double Dare Pump Sarah Palin wore when John Mccain announced her as his running mate have caused quite a shoe-buying frenzy among shoe shoppers in red and blue states alike. Politics aside (I will do anything in the name of fashion), they are appealing to the masses, and with good reason. They have a nice sturdy, comfortable heel, which is great for going straight from keeping America safe to your kid's hockey games without having to lug around an extra pair of shoes in the minivan. And if Sarah Palin doesn't completely represent your taste (in fashion), apparently Paris Hilton has also been spotted sporting the shoes. Who knew Sarah Palin and Paris Hilton had the same taste in footwear. They are available for $89.95 at ShoeMall, with 13% Cash Back! Shop on America!

Register to Vote here.

For some, printers may be the bane of your electronic existence. From all the fuss involving print cartridges, to trying to figure out what best fits your needs, picking out the right printer can be just as tricky as finding the perfect laptop. Throughout the week, I'll be picking out a few great deals on printers and letting you know their pros and cons. Additionally, I'll keep you in the know on the best deals I discover through my sleuthing. Today we'll start with a simple steal from Circuit City: the HP Photosmart C4480.

The HP Photosmart C4480 is a great printer for most people looking for something cheap and simple that will get the job done. It's a relatively compact printing solution, so those who don't have an entire desk to fit a massive all-in-one printer will enjoy its condensed footprint. It scans and copies one sheet at a time, and even has a little 1.5" LCD to make sure you are printing the right image. It also seems to do an admirable job of printing photos considering its cheap price, making it a great way to save money by printing at home. Now, be forewarned: if you're in a life-and-death situation where you need multiple photos printed in under a minute, you might want to look elsewhere. According to PC World, the C4480 prints full-color images at a speed of about 1.8 pages per minute (7.7 ppm black and white), meaning that you'll have to wait a little bit for its surprisingly-clear images to pop out the picture chute. As a person that can wait a few minutes for the few photos that I do print, it's not a deal breaker for me, but you should know about its relatively leisurely pace before taking the plunge.

While it may not offer all the features of a full-fledged all-in-one, the HP Photosmart C4480 costs only $50 (with free shipping) and makes copies, scans, and prints both photos and text like a champ. It's all that most casual printing folk will ever need, and will likely be a significant upgrade from that old Lexmark that's been lying in your closet from 1998. Check back on Wednesday for the second edition of our Printer Picks!

Having a solid and well-rounded wardrobe is much like having a solid and well-rounded mind: it takes a lot of work and demands one to focus on their wants versus needs. One example is "I want that new DVF blouse, but I need new flats." Just like mental health, people tend to overlook their wardrobe and let bad habits fester until there's a breaking point. As my best friend said on the subject of wardrobe prioritizing "I just don't know how to help myself." I like to equate a nervous breakdown to a wardrobe breakdown, as both are caused by self-neglect and bad choices. On that note, both can be quite enlightening and humorous to watch. In case of a mental breakdown, I would advise you to seek professional help. In case of a wardrobe breakdown, I would advise you to continue reading. Granted, I may not have a license or other "professional" documents, but I sure know how to dress.

With that being said, there are habits that can lead to wardrobe breakdowns. The worst of these habits is to buy one item repeatedly. That item for me was tops: silk, cotton, fancy, basic; you name it, I owned it. I spent so much money on buying tops that I never thought to buy things to wear with all my tops. Things such as pants, shoes, and even coats were all left neglected. After a while I began wondering why I had nothing to wear, yet owned an entire closet full of clothes. I soon realized that unless I planned on wearing nothing but said tops, I was out of luck. I lacked the basic building blocks of any wardrobe, and I needed to change the way I was shopping. The opposite of "top" is "bottom", so I rationalized that this would be a good starting point on the path to rebuilding my wardrobe.

To start with, I would need two distinct pants that served two totally different purposes, and considering Saks is having their October Sale, where else would I look? My first find was these Rebecca Taylor Tweed Trousers. Made from wool and elastene, these pants were office appropriate, yet still retained some flare. At 60% off and 3% Cash Back, they were a bargain as well. My next pair of pants had to be something that I could wear to work, but wear out as well. These flirty  trousers by Nanette Lepore are perfect for tucking in a blouse at work, or a cami for drinks. They are versatile and have a great cut. I'll need to add some height if I don't want to drown in these pants, and luckily I've saved enough on these pants to buy a couple of pairs of cute shoes to do just that.

Ugg Boots get a bad rap. So, they are not so attractive; I believe my former boss actually called them “UGG-ly”. But they are also amazingly comfortable and very warm. In fact, a great part of my day is when I get home and put my feet into my Uggs. I will move on from recalling these warm and fuzzy feelings (literal and figurative fuzzy feelings) and take this opportunity to draw a big line in the sand that distinguishes my feelings for traditional Uggs with what are sometimes called “Fashion Uggs”.  Metallic, camouflage, embellished; these are fashion Uggs, and they are appealing to some, and they even make a wonderful gift. But let’s call a spade a spade: they are still Uggs and they are meant for warmth and comfort; think of them as a glorified slipper. They should perform slipper like duties. Accompaniment to grocery store on a rainy day, dog walking, trip to the beach (off-season), chores around the house, long plane rides, an Ugg is a slipper’s more athletic, post-graduate older brother. In short, an Ugg, no matter what has been done to its exterior, should still be treated like an Ugg. The advent of fashion Uggs is why so many people hate Uggs. To avoid evil sneers of Ugg haters out there, I recommend staying away from treating the Ugg either as the focal point of an outfit or like any other boot. If you remember that an Ugg is a slipper, you are safe.

Now that I have publicly defended the Ugg, let me welcome in Ugg season by letting you know that Dillard’s has a full stock of all Ugg favorites with 3% Cash Back. So for all you potential Ugg shoppers out there, or any of you looking to make life’s quick, cold-weather errands a little more warm and fuzzy, now is your chance to do just that for a whole lot less!

A good cleanser is an important step in a woman's (or man's) skincare routine. Think of a good cleanser as your underpinnings; without them, your clothes just wouldn't work right. A cleanser is no different; subsequent treatment products or makeup will just not work right without properly cleansing the skin. This, however, does not mean that you need to spend a lot of money to acquire a great cleanser. The following three cleansers are all under $15.50 and contain high-quality ingredients that will keep your skin clean and looking great.

First (my current obsession) is the Skin Appetit Detoxifying Nutri-Cleanser ($15). It is available at Drugstore.com, with 6% Cash Back. The great thing about this cleanser is that it contains a unique Nutrx8complex; a blend of whole foods (like anti-oxidant rich blueberries) intended to feed the skin, keeping away wrinkles and blemishes. I often use this cleanser as a mask too, and it works great.

Next is Kiehl's Gentle Foaming Cleanser for $12.50 with 3% Cash Back. The is the most universal cleanser for virtually any skin type. It gently but thoroughly cleans the skin without being abrasive or stripping the skin of moisture. It's a great product to have, especially if you are using other treatment products that may make your skin sensitive.

The third is a medicated cleanser designed to treat problem skin, and it definitely boasts the most bang for your buck. Topix Gly Sal 5-2 Cleanser, from SkinStore.com, is priced at $15.50. It is truly a steal, as it is formulated with ultra-pure glycolic acid, salicylic acid, and green tea.

So, take some time to make your skin care routine a little more beneficial and reap the benefits of these cleansers, all of which are avaliable at a great price!

Gentle readers, I won't lie to you: I don't own this product. Chances are I will never own this product. But all of that doesn't matter, because I really, really want this product. With the exception of our vegetarian counterparts, I don't think there is any red-blooded American who doesn't want their own Hot Dog Cart. It may be a little impractical, and unless you or your neighbors entertain outdoors a lot, you probably won't have a ton of opportunity to use it.  But if you do BBQ enough, and have sense enough to realize that the ideal way to cook a hot dog is the "roller method", then this cart could be your own personal Holy Grail.

Made of enameled steel,  this cart hearkens back to the good old days. It's got the works: a bun warmer, a roller-equipped grill, condiment tubs, and even a handy side-mounted compartment to load with ice so you can keep your beverages cool. But what makes this old-timey beauty really stand apart is the fact that it only costs $200. That's one third of the original price. That's 66% off. That's $400 less than what you would have paid for this when it first became available. No matter how you choose to spin it, that is a fantastic deal.

So, if you appreciate style, if you appreciate carts with umbrellas that you can cook on, or if you just appreciate hot dogs, jump on this great deal and before you know it, you can be grilling up your own hot dogs in the comfort of your own back yard. All I ask, is if you end up buying, and you're anywhere near San Francisco, invite me over so I can try it firsthand!

Another Friday has come rumbling in, and despite the promise of a torrential downpour throughout most of Northern California I am still going to recommend that we all get out and experience nature a little. Again, being the type who has always kept himself sequestered in the city, I don't really "do" camping. As much as I love the sound of crickets or the view of stars over my head as I peacefully drift off to sleep, I prefer not having to check my shoes when I wake up in the morning to make sure that no creepy-crawlies have taken up residence in my size thirteens.

There are millions of Americans, however, who love sleeping out in the open, exploring new terrains, hitting the trails, and all the other fun-filled activities that fall under the blanket term "roughing it."  For you people, we have a few merchants that you might be interested in. Even if you don't love outdoor adventure, chances are you can find some manner of clever or fun gizmo that will make your life infinitely better.

- Cabela's is pretty much your one-stop location for any and all outdoor needs. Hunting, fishing, camping, ATV, anything really; if you do it outdoors, Cabela's has you covered.

- REI is one of the most widely recognized names in outdoor gear, and while they may not have some of the specialty products that Cabela's has, they do have Expert Advice sections as well as trip recommendations.

- CampingWorld really should just speak for itself.  They specialize more in RVs and their accessories, but chances are that if you own an RV, you probably take it camping. They do have a great selection of supplies like generators and gas grills that can smooth out your "roughing it" just a little.

- Patagonia, for all the attention paid to it as being a leader in outdoor wear, has also earned itself a name for comfortable and stylish design, so if you like to look better than the average camper when you hit the trails, this is the place to get all the gear that will keep you fashion-forward while staying warm and comfortable. 

When it comes to screamin' deals, I'll always have a soft spot in my heart for huge hard drive savings. As I've mentioned before, I have a clinical problem wherein I always hoard massive amounts of everything on my computer, which forces me to constantly seek out the latest and greatest savings in storage solutions. Today, however, I'm not here to talk to you about the largest drives at the lowest prices. No, today I'm here to point out convenience and savings, and present the 320GB Western Digital My Passport hard drive for your humble consideration.

At a meager $99, the My Passport hard drive may not be the best choice for those looking for the largest drive on the market.  For its price you could get at least a 500GB external, and possibly a 750GB or a terabyte if you're lucky. The real deal here lies in the practicality of the 2.5" hard drive, which isn't much bigger than two iPhones stacked on top of one another. This little drive works as the perfect mobile assistant, taking 320GB of your favorite movies, music, and more along with you wherever you go. On top of its small form factor and mobility, the little Passport is powered entirely by USB, meaning you only need to carry one cable around with you from place to place. This gives it a sizable advantage over larger 3.5" external hard drives that require a cumbersome power brick to make them spin, and makes your data truly portable. 

If you value mobility and style over gigantic size, consider giving this little drive a shot. It's normally $150 in stores, but the blue drive is on sale for $99 shipped after an instant rebate from Staples.com. Just head over to Staples, search for the drive (the blue one pictured above) and add it to your cart. As a person who likes to bring their music and movies with them from place to place, I can personally attest that lugging around a "traditional" external hard drive gets tiring, fast. Remove the clutter and make your life easier with this tiny Western Digital My Passport hard drive, and save big while doing it!

Help Bluefly celebrate their 10th anniversary with savings of an extra 10% on handbags and briefcases. The discount is taken at checkout. Yes ladies, you heard right, all handbags and briefcases. So now's the time to buy that lavish Chloe tote you've been eying, or this supple leather clutch from Gustto. No matter what you're seeking, you'll find it for less at Bluefly.

Oh so good to see you all again. Another Friday is upon us, and while all the water cooler chatter is about last night's debate, all the Ebates blog chatter is about helping you folks save with Free Shipping on some of your favorite stores this week. Luckily, we're early enough in the month that I can easily pick out and write up a handful of the best free shipping deals for this week, but you can always click on Max Cash or the Free Shipping van to go to the complete list. So, with no further ado, let's get down to the deals...

Friday, October 3rd
- Eastbay has free shipping on all orders over $99 - use code LKS18P99, so you can buy your favorite baseball gear just in time for the playoffs, or get some football gear to help inspire your team to make a turnaround at this early point in the season.

Saturday, October 4th
- Best Buy is shipping all the new iPod Nanos for free. I have to admit, despite my general aversion to the shrinking of all things electronic, these new Nanos are pretty darn cool. Now you can get it from a store you know and love, and get it shipped for nothing.

- Before compiling this list, I will admit, I'd never heard of Boscov's, but after looking around their site, and seeing that they have the good taste to offer free shipping on orders over $50, I have to admit, I'm pretty impressed. They've also got a great selection of "As Seen on TV" products, which I have a secret love for.

- The Great Indoors is footing the bill for shipping if you buy a rug. They are a great destination for anything and everything needed to spruce up the ol' home front, and through the end of the day on Saturday, they'll ship a rug for free!

- For you project lovers, or for those of you who just love a good deal on electronics, Radio Shack has free shipping on all orders over $25.

- Just in time for Halloween decorating, the Oriental Trading Company is offering free shipping on all orders over $60 if you use the code RLS100.  Stock up, save, and make your house the envy of the neighborhood while you're at it!

Sunday, October 5th
- Jos. A. Bank, one of the biggest names in men's fashion, is offering free shipping with no minimums through the end of this weekend. It's the perfect time to check out their Fall line and save some money on the shipping.

- Continuing in the trend of high-end fashion and free shipping, Saks Fifth Avenue is also offering free shipping through the end of the weekend on all orders $200 and up. I've said it before, and I'm sure I'll say it again after this, but you and I both know how easy it is to spend $200 at Saks, why not put that to use with free shipping?

Tuesday, October 7th
- Kohl's has free shipping on all orders over $75. This is a great chance to take a risk on a product you might otherwise pass over; with free shipping, and so many convenient locations, you won't lose a dime on shipping charges if you change your mind.

Friday October 10th
- For the ladies (or the men, if that's your kind of thing) American Eagle Outfitters will ship any and all of your bra purchases for free, with free returns as well.

- Draper's and Damon's, a trusted spot to go for women's clothing in all sizes and styles, has free shipping with code P1947. Just enter those five characters at checkout, and any and all of your shipping costs will magically disappear!

In yesterday's post, I mused about practicality. Oddly enough, this seems to go hand in hand with appreciating the joys that the simple things in life have to offer. Truly, it is a practical world view. Don’t limit yourself to the only the joys of the big things in life: promotions, babies, poetic justice… Think more about immediate pleasures; good food, good laughs, and great deals on something you need (or don’t need, but want). Welcome the instant joy with the Ebates Daily Double. For today only, get 18% Cash Back at Famous Footwear! Shop the Fall sale with current styles of Men’s, Women’s and Kids' shoes and accessories at a discount.

A good pick for women is the Tahari Holly shoe, now on sale for $89.99! This is a great shoe that will compliment just about every outfit from denim looks to work attire. Plus, it will be a fabulous (and comfortable) addition to your wardrobe for all the upcoming Holiday parties that are just around the corner.

Speaking of the spirit of giving, browse styles for men and kids. With Double Cash Back now is the time to shop for the entire family and enjoy Cash Back for yourself! On sale now is this men's Florsheim Lafayette dress shoe, which has been reduced to $69.99. This is a great style for the classic dressing man in your life; won't he look dapper in these leather wingtips?

Also, shop for kids athletic shoes, dress shoes, and back packs. With 18% Cash Back, you can relish in the simple joy of getting the whole family dressed with a Big Fat Check in your wallet.

Why is it that when asked "How's the water?" some people respond with the obnoxious answer of "wet", as if the person asking the question didn't already know that much is true about water. Indeed, water is just that: wet.

I find that rain is much the same way. It is wet, and it is usually cold, just like water. Personally, I am a huge fan of the rain. I love the dark skies that it brings and the sounds of a downpour at night. Although I have fantasies of splashing through puddles, this doesn't mean that I can't be found screaming at a failed umbrella while on my way to work. After such an incident I am both 1) embarrassed at acting like a child, and  2) determined to buy proper rain gear. Not just proper rain gear, but proper and stylish rain gear. I'm always up for a good challenge.

The first, and most important, line of defense when battling the rain is a proper umbrella and some proper footwear. If, like me, you don't feel the need to strut around town wearing neon polka dot galoshes, then perhaps these Patent Boots found at Smart Bargains will do the trick. They are made from water resistant patent leather and feature a rubber sole (no slips) as well as buckle detailing. In short, they look mod, sleek, and nothing like rain boots. In addition to looking great, you can also enjoy 3% Cash Back and pay less than $120.

Aside from dry feet, a dry head is just as important, and this Umbrella by Victorinox is the king of keeping bodies dry. I found this life saver at Paragon Sports, where 6% Cash Back is the name of the game. For those of you who think all umbrellas are made the same, I am under the belief that this one was sent back from scientists in the future just to make our lives a little better. Made from titanium enhanced alloy and water resistant fabric, this umbrella will not soak through or invert itself, and the "wind reflex" frame protects from breakage due to high winds. To sum it up, this umbrella will protect you from anything you can throw at it, and resists the elements, no matter how harsh they are. On a fashion side note, the light grey color is a refreshing change from typical black, not to mention the fact that its utilitarian style perfectly matches the boots. As far as accessories go, these two pieces complement each other like peanut butter and jelly, although far less sticky.

As a 3G iPhone owner, I have no problem arguing that it's one of the greatest pieces of technology to come out in a good while. From the seamless internet to the simple touchscreen user interface, it gets a lot of things done right, and does it all with impeccable style. However, as a person with eyes and a sense of rationality, I'd gladly discuss its handful of shortcomings: its cramped touchscreen keyboard, the spotty 3G connectivity, and, of course, the mediocre battery life.

Now, don't get me wrong. If you use the iPhone like a phone, you get pretty decent battery time. The problem comes from the millions of other things that it can do - games, internet, email, applications, and, of course, playing music. All these little things sap the battery life from it faster than a maple tree on tap, giving the iPhone an abysmal 4-7 hours for most "power users" like myself who use it for everything under the sun. What's a battery-starved iPhone aficionado to do?

Thankfully, a few different companies have realized the plight of the iPhoner, and have come up with a few creative fixes for the iPhone's biggest problem. First up is the casual user's solution: the 800mAh Extended Back Up Dock. This little doodad contains enough rechargeable juice to give your phone about 16 more hours of talk time, or about one-and-a-half recharges; enough for most anyone on the run. It's relatively small and inconspicuous, and since it attaches directly to the bottom of the iPhone, it looks like a natural extension of the phone. While larger brand name versions of this similar product retail for over $50, the Extended Back Up Dock is on sale at Hand Held Items for only $25 - a complete steal for practically anyone.

Worried one or two charges might not be enough? The MyBat is undoubtedly your answer. Featuring enough juice to charge the iPhone over three or four times, the MyBat serves as a total battery backup for your iPhone. It's roughly the same size as the iPhone, and contains 3200mAh of battery power to keep your iPhone or iPod going for hours and hours on end. If you're ever worried you'll forget to charge your iPhone for an entire trip, or want to have a backup plan for practically every Apple device you own, the MyBat is simply a no-brainer. And for the low price of $36.99, over $20 off the retail price, this little backup is a cheap way to ensure you've always got some juice.

Regardless of which you choose, there's a simple solution to the iPhone's biggest drawback waiting for you. I plan on picking one up sometime soon, so skeptics should stay tuned for a follow up blog!

I won't lie, folks, I am not, in any way, a hippie. I will never be a hippie. I may live in San Francisco, which to some of you means I am part hippie whether I like it or not, but I assure you, I am no hippie. My hair is short, I shower regularly, and I've never once even had an inkling to purchase anything tie dyed or made of hemp. I actually dislike the smell of patchouli. So why would I pick these two ostensibly hippie-friendly sites for my recommendations? Simple: the one thing that hippies have brought into my day-to-day existence that I really appreciate is a focus on wellness. Both Gaiam and IsabellaCatalog feature a number of products that make your life a little more peaceful and relaxing, which is something each of us can appreciate, regardless of the length of your hair or whether or not you own a pair of Birkenstocks.

Gaiam.com is a great site for both peaceful and eco-friendly living; you can find apparel, air treatment technology, decorations, and a whole array of DVDs ranging from yoga and fitness to inspirational. While this may be a bit New Age for some of you, there is a wonderful selection of wellness products including heating or cooling pads and electric automated massage tables that might just loosen up that tight back or help work away that pain in your neck.

IsabellaCatalog.com might be a harder sell, since it has an entire page devoted to dealing with loss and greiving, but it still has some great deals on a number of health and wellness issues. While you don't need Chinese character wall hangings, you might be interested in some aromatherapy options, insect repellant, or designer soaps. Realy, there are a number of great finds on this site, you just have to wade through some of the more.... eccentric items they offer.

So, get in touch with your inner chakras, center your chi, and find some fascinating products at these two great sites!

Today is a great day for wanderers everywhere, as we welcome one of the most respected names in Global Positioning System (GPS) devices to Ebates: TomTom!  TomTom.com is the offical website for everything TomTom, including the delightfuly simple TomTom ONE 130 (which is on sale for $50 right now), and the sexy and sleek TomTom GO 930T. From the latest and greatest GPS devices and mounting systems, to the special Point of Interest (POI) software that makes them so invaluable, you can find it on TomTom.com, now with 1% Cash Back on every order!

The top three easy updates are; a purple coat, seen pictured above from JCrew, a gorgeous, versatile dress of the same hue and a good-looking trouser that will rejuvenate older blouses and sweaters with a pop of purple. This JCrew Double Cloth Lady Coat sells for $330 with 2% Cash back; and it couldn't be more of a deal. It is made exclusively for JCrew by an expert Italian miller that has been producing wool fabrics for eighty years. It is truly an amazing quality for the price.

Next, this Alexander Wang Tank Wrap Dress is figure-flattering and of course, beautifully purple.  It is also on sale for 30% off at Shopbop, now only $366.80, with 3% Cash Back.   And the last insta-update for fall is a Corduroy Trouser from Banana Republic. This pair of pants represents the ideal union of modern and classic. Plus, they are only $89 and will seamlessly take the place of your perennial black pants this season. So welcome purple into the fall color palette and let the brilliant color have its time in the spotlight!

If there is one true statement to be made about east coasters, it's that we are creatures of habit. If there is a second true statement about us, it's that our lives are dictated by the seasons. The seasons, after all, affect our activities, moods, and wardrobe. It's for this reason that every Fall we put away our summer clothes and pull out sweaters, turtlenecks, and other cold weather items which we have not seen for months. For me, the process was actually quite fun, as I always found things that were nearly forgotten. Seeing the cashmere sweater I lived in, or the suede coat I couldn't take off was like seeing old friends again. This all came to a sudden halt when I moved to San Francisco and realized that the City by the Bay was in a constant state of Spring. Some rain, some cold, mostly mild, never hot. Although this may sound appealing, it quickly led to the fashion doldrums and wardrobe boredom.

With no wind chill factor breathing down my neck, there was no reason to make the shift, thus no excitement at seeing old friends again. That dress I used to adore was now always staring me in the face. The pashmina wrap that was once my favorite accessory now looked tired and dull. After scratching my head for a few, I realized it wasn't about what I wore, but how I wore it. Instead of wearing a strappy dress alone, I decided to jazz it up with a turtleneck and a funky belt. This dress from MaxStudio is not only on sale for $58, but you'll receive a whopping 6% Cash Back. I can't think of a more perfect example of a Summer piece that can be taken into Fall, even Winter. Pair with knit stockings and the right boots to create a fashion forward look. Use the money saved to take your dress on a warm weather vacation.

Most of you don't need to know much more than you already do about The North Face. You already know that it is the number one destination for technical apparel, equipment, snow gear, and even trekking shoes. Most people don't know, however, that The North Face was started just a few miles from where I currently sit writing this blog. It is with great joy that we announce that The North Face has joined forces with Ebates to bring you the great products you know and love with Cash Back that you also know and love.

So now that they're here, what should you get? Well, everything really.


But if you have to narrow things down, consider the Recon Backpack, a lightweight pack that's a leader among day packs from the slopes to the classroom.  And now that the weather is cooling down, it's time to start thinking about getting a jacket that will keep you comfortable and warm through the coolest winters. There are three jackets available at The North Face that stand out above the competition: Stratosphere, Heathen, and Thunder Jackets. Each of these jackets have a number of different innovative, technical options to choose from so you can find the jacket that's right for your activity.

               Heathen                         Stratosphere                           Thunder


Best of all, The North Face is offering free residential ground shipping on all orders over $50 through October 3; just enter code 010304 at checkout, and get it all delivered to your doorstep for no extra charge.