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It's been stated before that I am a design nut. A blog reading, window shopping, Google image seeking design nut. It's also been stated that one of my favorite design blogs is Desire To Inspire. During my latest visit to this site I came across a growing trend in design; plastic furniture. Before you think of tacky patio chairs, cafeteria seating, or anything meant for children, take a look at how Kim (one of DTI founders and design extraordinaire) manages to use them in ways that are modern and really fun. Expecting hefty price tags? Not when you shop at Sears. Thanks to Ebates November Double Cash Back you'll get 4.0% Cash Back at Sears and find modern furnishings (like the chair above) by Baxton Studio.

These Accent Chairs feature the same smooth shape and retro design as the above chair,  but this set of two costs under $200 at Sears. One chair alone at an overpriced retailer could cost up to $800, so you know these chairs are not just a funky addition to your home, but a great deal as well. Besides plastic chairs, Baxton Studio also makes acrylic furniture (a favorite of mine) as well as comfy sofas and modern tables. With over two hundred pieces to choose from, it's possible for all design nuts to find something they love while spending less.

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I have a confession to make. Not all stores I shop at are Ebates merchants. Yes I know, I'm missing out on cash back, but there are some stores I love so much I don't care. Crate and Barrel used to be one of those stores, but home junkies like myself will be very excited to hear Crate and Barrel has just joined Ebates. Gone is the guilt of not getting cash back, and instead I shop knowing I'll be stuffing even more cash into my wallet. How much? Well 3.0% Cash Back to be exact.

Speaking of stuffing, for Thanksgiving this year I intend on taking on a more proactive role in the kitchen. While searching for recipes that involve fresh pumpkin, I came across this Curried Coconut Pumpkin Stew. Seemingly easy to make, this meal will look perfect on any Thanksgiving table when served in these Pumpkin Servers. Not only are they charming but the soup size ones are just $11.95 each. Complete with lid, friends and family will be delighted to uncover the savory smells of a festive meal and I'll be delighted to show off my culinary skills. It's a win-win.

Get ready for the holidays with November Double Cash Back!

Just as Oprah has the "aha" moment, I have the OMG (oh my god) moment. Tuesday mornings do not usually constitute this type of excitement, but after opening my daily email from Horchow, an OMG moment was had. From now until November 10th, I'll save 25% on furniture and 30% on decor and accessories. As if that wasn't exciting enough, I'll also get 3.0% Cash Back. So like I said, OMG.

Just as I have a wish list for clothing, I have a wish list for furniture. Numero uno on that list is this Acrylic Side Table. A combination of antique and modern, this table is very Parisian chic. The piece de resistance of my boudoir, all this table needs is a small lamp and a porcelain vase filled with fresh cut flowers. Thanks to Horchow's huge sale, I'll save $212. Thanks to Ebates I'll rack up just over $22 cash back. Stylish furniture, huge savings, and lots of cash back is what I call tre chic!  

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There's nothing I love more than window shopping, even if by window, I mean Microsoft. Inspired by my favorite Top Chef contestant Jesse Sandlin (who btw is self taught) I've been shopping for all sorts of kitchen goods in the hopes that the right tools will take me from a mere cook to a bonafide culinary expert. Of course, shopping for quality kitchen items is usually an expensive project, but thanks to Target it's become a money saving adventure. Why? Because Target sells the same top brand items as other retailers, but for much less. In addition to saving upwards of 50% (more in some cases), you'll also get 4.0% Cash Back.

I use to think that a large chopping block was only sold at expensive specialty shops, but this 20x15 End Grain Chopping Block is just $53.99. That's a savings of 60% from other retailers. This Mortar and Pestle is $20 less than competitors. I bet down to earth chef Jesse owns a few of these.

"Winging it" may work when adding salt and pepper, but not for baking. Properly measuring your ingredients will determine if you're eating banana muffins for breakfast or banana oatmeal. A sturdy measuring cup like this one from Pyrex ($6.74) and Cuisipro Stainless Steel Measuring Spoons ($13.99) are essential to any chef. Both these are listed at well below what other sites would charge. Last but least, Mixing Bowls are an essential tool even when not baking. This set comes with lids (perfect for storing left over batter, etc.) and they also make great salad bowls. Considering stainless steel items cost more, this set is a steal at $26.99. Bon appetit!

Become your own top chef in our Home and Garden category.   

I try to be as healthy as possible, I really do. But quite frankly, these days it's nearly impossible. Sure, I quit smoking and I limit my processed foods, but in the age of e.coli spinach and teflon leaking chemicals, eating vegetables isn't enough to save me from the big C. After reading an article regarding how bad Tupperware and other plastic storage containers are, I decided to replace my collection with the big G - glass. Because money doesn't grow on trees, I'm thankful The Container Store is having 20% off site wide when I use coupon code SAVENOW. A healthy wallet is just as important as a healthy body.

These Glasslock Containers are exactly what I had in mind. Made from tempered glass, they withstand everyday use, and because they're made from glass they won't stain or keep smells from past meals. I should point out the lid is plastic, but there are other all-glass options available as well. Sold individually, these range in price from $2.99 to $14.99. Subtract off 20% and add 4.0% Cash Back, and you've got a greener lifestyle for a lot less money.

Shop Green with Ebates!

More than just a place to cook food, kitchens are a meeting ground. A place where friends, family, or just yourself can unwind and enjoy the comforts of food. At this point it's obvious I love a yellow kitchen, but instead of infusing yellow with modern aspects like acrylic chairs or crisp lines, I want to pair this color with country decor. Old bread tins, glass canisters filled with preserves, and a retro kitchen table are essential to getting this look. When it comes to buying antique or vintage items, there's no better place than eBay. Along with 2.0% Cash Back, you'll find thousands of options for the home, regardless of style or budget.

Kitchen Table
The centerpiece of any retro kitchen, this Retro Kitchen Table really sets the tone with baby blue color and ornate table top design. Although this item is available for pick up only, I am constantly finding many more tables just like this one in all sorts of different colors.

Vintage Bread Boxes and Canning Jars
One of the best ways to get a country look without the use of hens (or other tacky ornamentation) is through old containers like this Vintage Bread Box. Complete with sage green color and worn handles, this is the quintessential item to have in your kitchen. Canning jars like these Ball Mason Jars are not only a healthier way to store spices, preserves, etc, but they also make great vases and terrariums. I prefer to find older versions, but if you want a newer (and rust free) jar, you'll find those too.


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I am a man who loves his gadgetry, but from time to time, there is really something to be said for classic design. There's one odd product that this holds incredibly true for: ice cube trays. I realize, it's completely silly that I care this much about ice, but it's true. For all the wonderful advancements in ice making in the last fifty years or so, if you discount the refrigerators that make perfect ice for you, the best ice trays are the old aluminum ones with the pull handle. There's no twisting, you can get as many or as few cubes out as you'd like, and it just looks kind of classy.

Luckily, after developing an obsession with this style of ice cube tray, I stocked up by rooting through every second hand store, Salvation Army, Goodwill, and thrift store in about a twenty mile radius. I kid you not. I was an optimistic nineteen year old with a dream, and I made it a reality. I owned like eight pull-handle ice cube trays. Don't have ten hours to devote to ice cube trays? Do you just want one of these beauties without the hassle? Well, if you haven't clicked one of the links, you can probably imagine where they go: to Easy Comforts, where you can purchase your very own pull-handle ice cube tray for a mere $8.99. I think I spent more than that just on the gas for my adventures.

But I digress, this post is about Easy Comforts, not my love of chromed-out ice cube trays. At East Comforts, you'll find all sorts of various products that will make your life a little bit easier (hence the name!) no matter what your needs are. They've got everything from medical supplies and weight loss aids to easy-to-wear jewelry. All of which comes with 2.5% Cash Back, and Free Shipping on orders $40 and up when you use your Ebates account.

One one final note, they also sell a knife/fork combination called The Knork. I hope this one works better than the one they created on the cartoon "Clone High".

Often thought of as obnoxious or only suitable for children's rooms, yellow (like all bright colors) is making a strong comeback and can be seen in the latest design blogs, magazines, and even in the kitchen of yours truly. The trick to keeping this bold color from going overboard is to pair it with neutral and less intense colors, such as white. Perfect for bathrooms, kitchens, or as an accent wall, yellow is a great way to liven up any space. When it comes to buying paint only Home Depot offers top brands like Ralph Lauren, Behr, and Glidden, plus great perks like samples for just $2.49. On top of 3.0% Cash Back, you'll also find great deals on other products for the home.

If you're not sold on yellow (or any color for that matter) why not check out the the latest in paint trends all courtesy of the Home Depot. You'll find tips, ideas, and even inspiration regardless if you want something more traditional, or something with a bit more flair. For those who are faint of color heart, you can still inject this color through the use of pillows, plates, towels, you name it. So go ahead, get creative! 

Find more design ideas in our Home and Garden category!

It's not that I despise vacuuming, but with our yellow lab in the house, we've got furballs rolling around like tumbleweeds if we don't drag the vacuum out twice a day.

So after hearing that iRobot makes a robotic Roomba vacuum especially for pets, we decided to give it a try. It turns out that our Roomba is a tough little machine that cleans our floors better than a human (at least the ones in our household). If iRobot just adds a wagging tail, it might even earn 'favorite pet' status.

If you haven't heard of the Roomba, it's basically a dinner-plate sized disc, a few inches tall, that sounds like a kid's radio-controlled car. It relentlessly scours your floor plan, avoiding stairs and other hazards, and is smart enough to return to its charging station when its battery is low. You can even schedule it to clean when you're not home. The machine's low profile allows it to get under many places you normally never vacuum, and its side brushes allow it to clean tight corners and baseboards. If it ever does get tripped up on something, it stops and gives you a polite beep.

iRobot makes different models for just about every floor type and cleaning chore, including the floor-washing "Scooba" and the industrial-grade "Dirt Dog". We bought one of the new model 562 Pet Series Roombas, which includes a high-capacity debris bin.

Check out their site and you'll get 3.0% Cash Back, a free gift with any Roomba or Scooba Purchase (up to a $130) value, plus free shipping.

You may be surprised to hear there are some things I think are best left simple. Not everything needs to be over the top and uber stylized, like for instance, flatware and dinnerware. When it comes to serving food I think it's best to keep the utensils clean and minimal. No neon swirled plates or flatware in the shape of twigs. To be brutally honest, both are extremely tacky. I mean who wants to eat with a twig? Isn't that the point of civilization? To get away from such caveman activities? But I digress. In the market for an upgrade in the food serving department, I shopped at SmartBargains where I got 8.0% Cash Back (more than double!) and found a wide selection of dinnerware, flatware, really all kinds of wares.

The above Cambridge Silversmith 65pc Set is a "do" when it comes to flatware. No crazy designs or space age looking forks, just a simple and elegant set. Selling at just $89.99, I saved 33% of the retail and thanks to Ebates Columbus Day Sale I earned 8.0% Cash Back too. That's money that I can use toward something else for my home, like sheets.


Shop the Ebates Columbus Day Sale!

Part of me feels like I may have written about this company before, but as I can't seem to find it in our blog archives, I can't resist but to write about them now.

You all remember someone you went to college with who had a beanbag chair. It doesn't matter if you're twenty two or fifty two, no college dorm was complete without "that guy with the beanbag chair".Well, just as we have all grown up since then, so has the idea of a beanbag chair. Nowadays, rather than an old relic from the '70s spilling little bits all over your carpet, there is the LoveSac. They provide all sorts of solutions both large and small, with a number of accessories for various uses and room sizes, made of durafoam rather than the pellets of old. LoveSac also makes "Sactionals" which are lounging couches made of LoveSac-styled bases with backs and sides which can all be positioned to best suit the needs of your room. Factor in 5.0% Cash Back, and you can take home a pretty penny, because we all know furniture doesn't come cheap.

Plus, as the mercury continues to drop in your thermometers, there's no better place to cuddle up than on a LoveSac - where do you think they got their name? (wink wink)

Being a design junkie, I tend to notice interiors before anything else. Take the movie Mamma Mia for example. While some may gush over Pierce Brosnan or Dominic Cooper, I was enraptured with the vibrant set of turquoise walls, hand embroidered sheets, and earthen pottery. Immediately after watching the film I sought the same linens, yet finding hand embroidered linens is no easy task, as I had the misfortune of finding out. About to give up, it dawned on me that in order to find such rarities as handmade items, I'd have to shop a site that specializes in them. Enter World of Good. Not only does this site cater to handmade and free trade items, but by shopping through Ebates, I'll get 2.0% Cash Back.

A side project of eBay, World of Good sells everything from organic beauty products to recycled decanters, all helping the artisans who made them. These Hand Embroidered Napkins from Pakistan are just the thing I was looking for, and the proceeds of my purchase will go to a great cause; helping nomadic herding communities in Pakistan and protecting the environment they live in. It's a win-win.

Find more creative ideas in our Home and Garden category.

The saying "one man's trash is another man's treasure" is a saying I live by. Whether I'm shopping eBay for vintage clothing or hunting through flea markets, I appreciate what others leave behind. It's not because I love the smell of old stuff or enjoy refurbishing things. I don't prefer second hand goods, it's just that I find it hard to satisfy my eclectic taste by shopping mainstream. While this is all well and good, there does come a time when a girl wants something nice, new, and clean. Thanks to VIVRE, I can satisfy my love of the unconventional and get 2.5% Cash Back from Ebates. Added for free is the enjoyment of not having to steam, dry-clean, or refinish a thing.

VIVRE carries everything from clothing and accessories to shoes, travel books, and even fine jewelry. Their home decor selection ranges from artistic prints by Bengoechea, adirondack chairs made from lucite, and even funky trinkets like candle holders in the shape of sea urchins. Although it's hard to choose what I love the most, I'll never leave this site empty handed - especially with all that cash back!

Find more design ideas in our Home and Garden category!

Like clothing, my taste in home design changes as often as the weather. One day I'm searching for an Eames chair to compliment my love of Danish Modern, and the next I'm shopping for a Chaise Lounge to satisfy my obsession with French Country. Deciding what trends to invest in, and which ones to pass over is a dilemma I constantly find myself in, and these photos from Desire To Inspire are not helping the matter. Thanks to Ebates and merchants like Sundance Catalog, I'm able to indulge my passion without shoppers remorse. How? With 2.0% Cash Back of course!

The above photo was taken by Swedish photographer Stellan Herner, and it shows how the meeting of utilitarian minimalism and rugged country can be a refreshing change. The use of mixed materials like wood with steel, and cement with linen, can create a harmonious environment. This Brickmaker's Coffee Table is in the same theme. Made from thick steel frames and azobe wood, this table only gets better over time. No need for coasters, the aged wood can handle whatever I toss on top, and considering its size, it doubles as a dinner table too. All I need are a few seat cushions!

Get cash back in our Home and Garden category!

Just the other night a good friend of mine was lamenting on her less-than-thrilling home decor and how she wished for a change. When I asked her why she had never performed a home facelift before, she gave the all too common response "it costs too much". I was quick to point out that when it comes to interior design, small changes such as a fresh coat of paint, a change of the curtains, or a reshuffling of furniture could create an entirely new room with little cost. Of course she was skeptical, but once I reminded her of the cash back she could be getting by shopping through Ebates she agreed.

One of my favorite stores to shop for inexpensive home decor is Urban Outfitters. Not only will I get 2.5% Cash Back, but I'll find loads of options ranging from bedding to funky accessories like this Branch Curtain Tie-Back. Perfect for the upcoming cooler months, this adds a hint of Winter but looks great regardless of the season. At just $14, this is an affordable way to change up any room. Throw in new curtains starting at $14.99 and you're halfway to creating a new look with minimal cost. If only Urban Outfitters sold paint too!

Find more design ideas in our Home and Garden category!

It used to be that in order to save money, you had to eat at home. Grocery shopping, cooking, and bringing your lunch to work were all necessary steps in the fight to keep extra cash in your pocket. With milk, quality meats, and even produce costing three times more than they did a few years ago, eating in isn't the money saving ritual it used to be. Especially when it comes to meat. Not to fret, though, because Omaha Steaks offers top quality meats, seafood, and even appetizers at prices you can afford. Thanks to Man Week at Ebates, you'll now get 6.0% Cash Back on top of great savings on mouth watering food.

Shop the End of Summer Sale at Omaha Steaks and save 50% on filet mignons, pork chops, boneless chicken breasts, as well as half off yummy sides and dessert. They also have great deals like The Weekender Combo which offers a combination of franks, burgers, and top sirloin for just $44 dollars! That's a discount of $81! Perfect for the game, camping trip, or for later, you'll enjoy top quality meats at prices that make you wonder "Why did I ever go to the grocery store?"


Find more great deals during Man Week at Ebates!

I will confess I am a hypocrite when it comes to food. I shun processed food, soda, fast food, and anything that needs a microwave to be heated, but I always find ways to make excuses for other bad behavior. Cookies? Fine if they don't have high fructose corn syrup. Cigarette with a glass of wine? The French do it. Baked mac and cheese with pancetta? Hey, I have a green drink everyday. The list could go on and on, but I will say that when it comes to food, most of what I eat is homemade. This do-it-yourself way of life trickles down into even the most basic things. Like spices.

I tend to buy my spices in bulk, meaning they're usually not ground. Easy as pie to do, grinding spices takes a bit of elbow grease and the proper tools like this Granite Mortar and Pestle from CHEFS. It's my personal belief granite makes for a better surface then glass or ceramic mortars, not to mention it's typically cheaper. The above one is just $39.99 and you'll get 6.0% Cash Back from Ebates. It should also be mentioned that using a mortar and pestle is a great stress reducer, much like a cigarette with a glass of wine. Only without the hypocrisy.

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If there's one thing I could not live without, it would be a large kitchen. Lots of cabinets and space to move around in is a must-have for someone who cooks on a regular basis, yet I'm aware that not everyone has this luxury. Kitchens that lack cabinet space often lack storage, and as anyone with a kitchen knows, storage is everything. A great way to create storage in a kitchen with little cabinet space is through shelving. Thanks to the elfa sale at The Container Store, I can save 25% on tons of shelving options, and I'll get 4.0% Cash Back while doing so.

The above kitchen shows how elfa can create storage out of thin air. Called the Platinum elfa Kitchen Wall, this system will holds all your kitchen essentials, and can be customized to fit your kitchen's dimensions. Not only does it give you the needed space for dinnerware, cookware, or anything you choose, but it also looks chic and modern. Part of the elfa collection, this unit is 25% off. So whether you need to organize your home office, clean up your kitchen, or de-clutter your closet, you can do it for less at The Container Store.

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Unless you were made to wash chalkboards in school as punishment for talking in class (guilty) there should be no aversion to bringing the classroom into your home. Appropriate for those with school aged children or those who simply miss drawing on the sidewalk, chalkboard paint is a fun way to add color and creativity to any home. Whether you use it for notes, shopping lists, or hangman, you'll love it's versatility and playfulness. You'll also love that it costs less than $25 to get this look. Target sells Rustoleum Specialty Chalkboard Paint for just $14.93, and you'll get 4% Cash Back from Ebates. No Target coupons needed, it really is that easy.

Achieving this look can be done in four easy steps.

Bedding is one of the home categories that tends to get overlooked until the sheets are tearing, or the dry cleaner insists the wine stain on your white duvet is there for life. Sheets, duvets, and the like, are easily put into a "I'll get to it someday" box and they often take a back seat to fun items like cashmere sweaters, boots, handbags, things you can show off. Not only does bedding age faster than any item hanging in your closet, it usually costs more too. Although it may seem the only way to find affordable bedding is to settle for cheap, itchy fabrics, this is not the case at West Elm.

With duvets starting at $69 and peaking at $169, finding the affordable bedding is easy. I found three luxurious duvets for just $99, and the above Organic Matelasse Duvet is one of many amazing deals at just $139. Sheets and pillows start at $29.99, and come in a wide variety of patterns and colors. Considering you'll get 3% Cash Back on all your purchases at West Elm, there's no reason not to shop for your bedding here.

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The first time my parents visited me in college I thought my mother was going to faint. My dorm room was a bit eclectic: the curtains were plaid, the bedspread floral, and the floors bare. Surely I was brought up better than this, she lamented! Left to my own devices I "borrowed" some old sheets from the family linen closet (the ones where the pillowcases didn't match) and appropriated a long-forgotten comforter hidden on the top shelf. The window coverings...well they were the legacy of the former occupant. Money was tight and there weren't many options for budget-conscious college kids in those days.

But like they say - we've come a long way baby! Thanks to Designer Linens Outlet, college-bound kids can go off to school in style at a savings of up to 80% off retail prices. From sheets to towels, bed sets to pillows - their vast selection will fit any style, any wallet.  Not sure where to start - visit their comprehensive Back-to-School section, where they highlight the best brands like Nautica, Croscill and Christy to name a few. Each week there's a different promotion to help you save even more, and until August 31st you can either take $10 OFF orders of $99+ with promo code AFTen99, or select free shipping on orders of $49+ with promo code AFShipFree89.

Now you know where to buy and how to save, but are you still suffering from thread count confusion or cotton vs. percale? Visit Designer Linen Outlet's Sheet Buying Guide to strip down the bedding basics. Haven't decided on duvet cover vs. quilt or how memory foam can relieve those sleepless pre-test nights? DLO's Bedding Guide really simplifies linen lingo. And at last, the ultimate source on how to measure for sheets, shams, and more! Remember; studies have shown that students who get a good night's sleep get better grades. Why tempt fate? Shop for your future college graduate's Back-to-School bedding at Designer Linens Outlet and earn 4% Cash Back while you're at it!

P.S. - In case Mom and Dad are taking their student's departure as a signal to re-decorate, they too can get the best in designer bedding, bath, and home décor at the same great savings up to 80% off retail prices at Designer Linens Outlet. Why should the kids have all the fun!

Chefs know that when it comes to savory meals, their best bet is to use cast iron. Not only does cast iron distribute heat evenly, but it retains flavor and only gets better over time. What you may not know, is that cast iron offers a much safer alternative to traditional non-stick/ teflon pans. Why? Well new research shows the chemicals in teflon known as perfluorochemicals (PFC's for short) can be broken down at temperatures under 400 degrees, emitting toxic gases which goes, you guessed it, into your food. Cast iron pans (like this 15 inch skillet from Sur La Table) are simply the healthier and tastier way to go.

If you've never used a cast iron pan, you may be surprised at how much easier they are to clean. A well seasoned cast iron skillet only takes hot water and a light, non abrasive sponge to get clean. Lodge Logic Cast Iron Cookware comes pre-seasoned and ranges from skillets and griddles, to biscuit pans and dutch ovens. Available at Sur La Table, this green alternative starts at $8.95, and ranges up to a mere $49.95. Add to that 4% Cash Back, and you've got more green in your food, and in your wallet!

Find more green options in our Green category!

Never one to throw a party on a whim, I thought I would be more adventurous and throw one in my apartment. I am equally motivated by my desire to spice things up and my need to preform revenge on my techno-blasting party animal of a new neighbor. Needless to say, I am seriously lacking in any real party supplies and I knew exactly where to go to get what I needed to throw a wall-rattling rager. Oriental Trading Company is the ultimate destination for party supplies for any occasion. When you shop there, through Ebates, you will get 3% Cash Back and Oriental Trading Company coupons for additional savings, because while you can't put a price on revenge, you can still save money in the process!

Not only does Oriental Trading Company have party supplies for everything from a luau to a baby shower, they have an extensive collection of craft supplies, toys, teaching supplies and crafts. I think I will throw a cowboy themed party in honor of Whiplash the cowboy monkey, a true icon and an Ebates employee favorite.

When I spend $49, I will get free shipping with no special Oriental Trading Company coupon code required.

Throw your own party and save with cash back from Ebates and Oriental Trading Company coupons!

Just as a bride should have "something old, something new, something borrowed, something blue" so should a college student. The borrowing will no doubt come from your wallet, and student loans. As for something new, dorm must-haves like comforters, hampers, and alarm clocks are 30-60% off at JCPenney. Something blue might be this Bedrest Pillow, and for the old? Well let's just say having peace and quite never gets old. Of course helping you earn the most cash back during this time of textbooks, new roommates, and class schedules is Ebates Back to School Special. With 5% Cash Back at JCPenney and 4% Cash Back at Kohls, getting your student ready for the year ahead is a whole lot easier.

Aside from YouTube videos and microwaveable mac and cheese, dorm life is all about learning how to live on your own. Understanding this may not come easily to college students, Kohls offers great deals on essentials like microwaves, can openers, and toasters to name a few. Not only will you save big bucks by shopping both JCPenney and Kohls, but you can rest assured your student is enjoying the comforts of home. Almost.


Shop Back To School with Ebates!

While I can testify it's easier to change your shoes than your interiors, that's not to say the latter isn't just as important for sound mental health. The same as a new wardrobe inspires change, so do new interiors. To most people, this means new throw pillows, curtains, or if they're really crazy, new paint. I say skip that and take a cue from your ceiling. Ceilings are one of the greatest and most untapped resources for decor. They're perfect for hanging planters, vintage chandeliers, and these Hanging Vases from CB2. Don't think so? Check out the many ways to use these in your home here.

At $4.95 a piece, this is an affordable way to change the theme of any room. For an airy vibe, try water and a single stem flower. For a woodsy feeling, the use of sand (particularly black sand) can make a great contrast against birch branches, or fresh picked leaves. Whatever you decide, you'll get 3% Cash Back at CB2, and a fresh new look. Enjoy!

Earn cash back in our Home and Garden category

This is a rarity, folks: to my knowledge, I have neither heard of nor even seen the name of this week's merchant. Generally speaking, I am somewhat familiar with the merchant before I write about them, but I just happened across Kotula's. Now, my life may never be the same. I fear someone's been stalking me for the last year, and has decided to start a website selling all the things I like.

Only at Kotula's can you find a giant 64-ounce flask, a gas-powered margarita mixer, an airgun rifle, and a bench vise all in one place. Plus, as crazy as it may sound - they have off-the-wall products too! I know Kevin, our CEO, was certainly... intrigued by the prospect of the "off-road commode" while I am more partial to the "flair hair". Both are worth finding on the site, trust me.

Plus all these items will earn you 4% Cash Back, and every purchase made at Kotula's is shipped for free!

Want more of a feminine touch around your house? Go to Ebates and check our Home & Garden Category!

It's because of color's effect on people that hospitals and DMV's are painted soothing blues, and restaurants are filled with warm earth tones. As for me, I've noticed this effect in my kitchen. It took me a while to understand why I lacked the motivation to cook in my own home, but after a recent visit to my mother's it was all too clear. While her kitchen is filled with the warmth of terracotta walls, hanging herbs, and cast iron pans, mine is bare, white, and sterile. One would be more inclined to get a tooth pulled than cook a meal.

Before I lacquer the walls with a color I might regret, starting with eclectic dinnerware is a safer option. This Florence Collection features six plates all hand painted in traditional Majolica style, and at only $29.99, I'll save an average $15 per plate over other retailers. Available at Ginny's Catalog, I'll get 4% Cash Back from Ebates, while adding some much needed life to my kitchen.

Get cash back in our Home and Garden category

Sometimes people take the little things in life for granted. The biggest TV and the fastest car might be fun for show, but oftentimes little gadgets have the biggest impact on our lives. Even though these gadgets are simple, two little upgrades to your kitchen could improve your life and earn you cash back in the process!

Milk Frother
Who doesn't love a nice cafe latte in the morning? I love my coffee, but it's often hard to get a good froth going for your favorite drink. Now you can warm up the milk, froth it up with a $8 Milk Frother from Overstock, and add your favorite coffee or espresso. How relaxing!


Digital Weigh Scale
It might not be an essential gadget to everyone, but a proper scale saves you time, money, and tummy-aches by telling you the weight of everything to the nearest gram. A co-worker swears by it for everything from pastries to main courses -- why not spend $25 at Target and improve all your meals too?

You know it from your grandmother's tea set, but the pattern known as Toile (as seen here in the kitchen of famed Interior Designer Sheila Bridges) has been making a comeback in modern design. Toile refers to a cloth inked with a repeating, usually complex scene, and was originally used in fashion as a way for French pattern makers to perfect a design. The modern approach to Toile pronounced twal, is to couple it with other design movements such as mirrored furniture (also making a comeback) or minimalist decor like that found at CB2, one of Ebates new merchants. Whether you add a few throw pillows, create an accent wall with Toile wallpaper, or opt for new bedding, there are several Ebates merchants that carry Toile, and you'll get cash back with every purchase.

Tighter budgets will love shopping Toile products at Target (4% Cash Back) because their selection ranges from bedding to this Rouleau Dinnerware Set. At just $49.99, these plates make a great addition to any kitchen or dining room, and look kitschy when paired with a modern table. At Ballard Designs you'll get 3% Cash Back on luxurious hand sewn Toile bedding fit for royalty, as well as great deals like fabric starting at just $24. With options for varying budgets and tastes, it's easy to inject Toile into your decor. You'll find plenty of Ebates merchants carrying this trend, and enjoy reaping the rewards of cash back!

Redesign your home and get cash back with our Home and Garden merchants!

Even though I can actually cook with a fair degree of competence, I am a downright menace in the kitchen. Since I moved into my apartment, I have owned five cutting boards: some melted, some caught on fire (it is harder than you think to get an 8x6 Bamboo slab engulfed in flames), others were warped in water. Needless to say, my kitchen curse has been a major strain on my wallet. Just the other day, another cutting board bit the dust and I broke my last intact coffee mug in an early morning catastrophe including a tea kettle, a chair, a bag of green tea, and my bare feet. Once again, I was faced with the prospect of needing to replace kitchen items and I knew just where to go. When I shop at Target, through Ebates, I get 4% Cash Back and coupons for sturdy kitchen gear that will withstand even my abuse.

Almost instantly, I found great deal on Epicurean Cutting Boards, now on clearance and just $34.99 (prices vary on size). Made of wood fiber composite laminate and heat resistant up to 350 degrees, I knew it was the right choice. And no one loves a designer collaboration more than me, so I was even more excited to find these Orla Kiely mugs, available in several patterns and just $11.99 for two. I got cash back and scored some goods on sale and I earned free shipping with a Target Coupon!

The shopping trip was a major success and I can only hope that my new kitchen wares survive.

If you're a fan of the words "rustic", "quaint", or "homey", then you should love Country Door. They have a wide array of items from furniture and rugs to outdoor sets and even clothing, all of which capture that perfect comfortable feeling. What I like best is that they are able to capture vintage styling and lines without the vintage price tag or the vintage wear-and-tear.

Another feature that Country Door offers, besides 4% Cash Back of course, is the option to shop for seasonal finds, so whether you are looking to add a little summertime freshness to your home, or you just want to get a real hum-dinger of a head start on your Christmas decor shopping, you can find it all categorized together at Country Door. And while you might not be able to find any Country Door coupons through Ebates, their reasonable prices paired with their cash back offering make Country Door a great find for folks looking to liven up the old homestead on a bit more of a fixed budget.

If the rustic look isn't quite your cup of tea, be sure to check out all of our Home & Garden merchants for just the look you had in mind!

Sometimes known as a credenza, sometimes known as a buffet, this classic piece of furniture has resurfaced as an essential item in modern design. No longer bound to the dining room, the buffet (as I grew up calling it) has ousted bookcases and tables, as the latest in chic storage. If you want to try this look while staying in budget, shop at Home Decorators Collection for 3% Cash Back and money saving Home Decorators Collection coupons.

The above Wuchow Buffet is a great way to spice up any room. With it's traditional-meets-Asian vibe, matte finish and simple lines, this piece has more of a rustic feel than past options. For added pop, try decorating with a few coffee table books or a bright floral arrangement. Even without Home Decorators Collection coupons, you'll save $50 off the original plus pay a low shipping charge of just $40. Great design at great prices? Only at Ebates!

Find more ways to earn cash back in our Home & Garden category!

For years I lived under the impression that all vitamins were created equal. It wasn't until I became interested in organic living that I realized just how unhealthy vitamins, supplements, and even cosmetics could be. From mercury in fish oil to preservatives in multivitamins, separating what's good for you and what claims to be is best left to the professionals at Vitamin World. Thanks to Ebates Health and Beauty Week, you'll get increased Cash Back of 10% for a limited time at Vitamin World.

Aside from vitamins, herbs, and supplements, Vitamin World also carries all natural skincare, beauty products, and even items for your pets. If you've been meaning to get healthy but haven't because of cost, you'll love deals like sitewide savings of 20-50% and daily low prices starting at just $1.99. So what are you waiting for? There's never been a better time to get healthy!

Shop Health and Beauty Week at Ebates and get more cash back!

My search for a new place to call home has come with many ups and downs. As if attending countless open houses wasn't tiring enough, having to contest with attendees who hear open house and think "duel to the death" can make the matter seem almost unbearable. If there's one ray of hope keeping me sane during this time of applications, credit checks, and gladiator house seekers, it's the chance to refresh my interiors. Thanks to Home Depot coupons, and 4% Cash Back at Ebates, decorating my new home will be easy and affordable.

Made with me in mind, Home Depot's decor section is chock full of great deals. There I'll find up to 20% discount on select blinds and shades, plus an extensive selection of wallpaper and decorative accessories. Considering my budget will be next to none, it's nice to know I can shop Home Depot coupons through Ebates, and find exclusive offers like free shipping, and other coupon codes. If only the entire moving process was so easy!

See all Ebates coupon codes.

On the growing list of items I want for my "dream apartment" I have joyfully added "outdoor sitting area decorated with the requisite outdoor living furniture."

While I do not yet have an apartment with any kind of outdoor living area (unless you count the street-facing fire escape) it doesn't hurt to shop for furniture in the meantime, especially when there are so many great coupons and deals from Ebates merchants! Shop deals on outdoor living items at Smart Bargains, where you can find furniture (and much more) marked down at least 40% with 4% Cash Back and tons of money saving Smart Bargains Coupons to make even preemptive purchases even more enticing!

Shop for everything from beach towels to lawn chairs, teak patio sets to chic sandals, all at blowout prices. Use this Smart Bargains Coupon to get 10% off site wide and $4.99 flat rate shipping with no coupon code required! Hurry, this offer ends on June 24th!

Shop deals and coupons for all your home and garden needs at Ebates!

I keep hearing everyone say that they are taking a "staycation" this year instead of going out of town for a vacation. What a great idea! There are so many things to see in and around your own city that you could discover something new everyday! There are a few ways that Ebates merchants can help you make your stay at home feel like a four-star resort (while earning your valuable cash back).


Beach resorts always have plenty of torches burning by the patio at night. Try putting a few on your deck or patio to bring that beachy feel right to your own backyard. I love these beautiful LoveBracket Torches from Target. You can just clip them to your deck railing, and earn 4% Cash Back.




Nothing says vacation like good food! Stonewall Kitchen offers up specialty foods and mixes that can turn your kitchen into a gourmet restaurant, and earn you 4% Cash Back on your purchases. Go buy some shrimp from your grocery store and serve it with this Tequila Lime Cocktail Sauce. Instant Caribbean Cuisine! Make sure to whip up some margaritas too.



This Quilted Sunbrella Hammock from LL Bean will really make you feel like you are somewhere special. I love laying under the trees in a Hammock... grab a book (and your margarita) and hop in. Not only is it super cute... it is on sale plus an additional 2% Cash Back through Ebates!!




Surprise your family with treats at bedtime. How surprised would your kids be if they found some yummy Dancing Deer Baking Co. cookies on their bedside table? The Molasses Clove are amazing!




At the end of your fun filled day at home you should unwind and relax in an extra special way. Soak in the tub, give yourself a facial, or paint your nails a great Summer color. SpaLook has a wide variety of pampering products to choose from, all with a solid 6% Cash Back. Too tired to treat yourself? Try the Aromafloria Inhalation Beads. Just open the cap and take a whiff.... instant relaxation.


Go ahead, create your own staycation memories and traditions. By spending very little money, earning cash back from Ebates, and staying at home you can create a special time for the whole family. Check out more ideas at my blog, Katy Shops...

With only eleven days separating you from Father's Day, it's not uncommon for panic to set in. Before poor buying decisions are made, remember that you've got Home Depot and Ebates. From now until Father's Day, you'll earn 5% Cash Back at Home Depot, while saving on countless items with Home Depot coupons. So stop worrying about what to get dad. With Home Depot and Ebates, you'll find the perfect gift at the perfect price.

Home Depot makes it easy to shop for every dad, whether he's a sports enthusiast, a culinary king, or Mr. do-it-yourself. Check out the gift center and shop by price or by personality. Receive up to a 30% discount on select items in the savings center, as well as online rebates. Not only will you find the ideas necessary for acquiring the perfect gift, but you'll also enjoy free shipping on orders over $149. With so many ways to save, you'll never have to shop anywhere else!

Shop Ebates Father's Day Merchants and earn even more cash back!

For many, Lands' End is known as the purveyor of classic American style; but for me it's a designer's paradise. Nowhere else can I find Summer appropriate decor for the home at such great prices. By shopping with Ebates, I'll earn 3% Cash Back at Lands' End, and if I use Lands' End coupons, I'm guaranteed to save even more.

With great deals like a 25% discount on outdoor furniture, even beginner designers will be inspired to try their hand at summer decorating. For picture-perfect summer entertaining, choose from Adirondack chairs, patio tables, or plush teak sofas. If your interiors could use a warm weather lift, you'll find luxurious bedding done in summer neutrals. Regardless of whether you shop Lands' End for their affordable clothing, or their chic furnishings, make sure you do it through Ebates. You'll earn cash back, and find plenty of Lands' End coupons. Let the Summer savings begin!

Shop the Home & Garden category for more ways to earn cash back!

You know, when I think of my Dad, Home Depot is one of the first stores that comes to mind. There's nothing more masculine than an entire store filled with wood, power tools, and extremely large appliances, and that's why I'm personally excited to see so many Home Depot coupons around Ebates for Father's Day. And with 4% Cash Back on everything from Home Depot (including gift cards!), you can earn with Ebates while getting more for Dad!

I don't think I really need to say much about the contents of your local Home Depot, but I will let you know that there are a ton of great coupons and specials going on right now that you'll probably love. With the free stainless steel upgrade for GE appliances, a coupon for $10 off $100, and the tons of great stuff on clearance, you can get great deals on almost anything for Dad!

So head on over to Home Depot and save with Home Depot coupons and cash back - doesn't Dad deserve something special this Father's Day?

I will expose my naivete here for a moment and tell you, Ebates Blog reader, that until New Merchant Week, I had never heard of Lenox.com. Lured by the promise of 8% Cash Back from Ebates during New Merchant Week and Lenox.com coupons, I took a trip to the site and was amazed by the section of tableware and gifts at great prices. They have crystal, table linens, flatware, and much more.

Not really being the type to buy things for the home on a regular basis, I was more inclined to browse the gift section. With weddings, graduations, and baby showers on my calendar, I got great gifts and saved money with cash back from Ebates! My best friend is pregnant and due in July, and instead of a "Made in San Francisco" onesie for the tot, I found this baby feeding set that will be much more celebratory. Plus, it's on sale for $29, marked down from $58. If I spend $75 or more, I can qualify for free shipping too, so I will pick up a few more gifts and get more cash back and save on shipping!

With Memorial Day a mere week away, now is the time to start thinking of what your Summer plans might be like. Regardless if your the king of BBQ or the queen of pool parties, Sears has all the ingredients to make your Summer full on flavor without emptying you wallet. As part of Ebates Memorial Day Savings Event, you'll earn increased Cash Back of 4% at Sears.

As if earning cash back at Sears wasn't enticing enough, shop the Outdoor Living section for great deals on backyard must haves like grills, patio furniture, gazebos, and fire pits. For those who have limited yard space, Sears also carries an extensive selection of portable and small grills like the 14 inch Charcoal Grill pictured above. This urbanite's dream features a removable ash catcher and draft control vent, and is made of chrome-plated steel. On sale for $17.88, it's an affordable way to bring backyard fun to any space.

Earn extra cash back with our Memorial Day merchants!

As a woman, my bedroom is more of a private sanctuary than a place to lay my head. Recently, however, I've noticed my boudoir is in need of an upgrade. Not wanting to spend my life savings on new decor, I headed over to West Elm for 3% Cash Back and plenty of West Elm coupons. Just in time for my bedroom switch up, from now until May 18th, I'll save 15% on all West Elm bedroom furniture including headboards, frames, armoires, and much much more.

For years I've considered West Elm the place where low prices meets high design. The quintessential site for modernity, you'll never overspend thanks to West Elm coupons like 30% savings on select bedding and lighting, as well as reduced shipping on select furniture. Looking for an even deeper discount? Check out West Elm's extensive sale section where you'll find markdowns on furniture, decor, and more. No matter what you're looking to upgrade, do it for less at West Elm!

Save for your home in our Home & Garden category

So you're done with Spring Cleaning and now you're ready to find a few key pieces to help revitalize the old homestead. Since you've already shown your good taste by choosing to read this blog, you no doubt have the good taste to know that Frontgate has all the finest in home decor, accessories, and even kitchen supplies. However, with high quality products often comes larger price tags because, hey, you get what you pay for.

Luckily for you, Ebates offers 1% Cash Back at Frontgate in addition to a trio of Frongate coupons that will help you save a little extra coin on the wide selection of products available from this fine retailer. As a matter of fact, with the right Frontgate coupons, like the ones we have on our site, you can throw a killer pool party just in time for summer. I mean, come on; beverage tubs on sale? Pool floats? Outdoor torches? All for less? That, my friends, is how I say summer. And I say savings with two simple words: Frontgate coupons.

Find all sorts of decorating solutions in our Home & Garden category while you're at it.

Searching for the elusive Anthropologie coupon? By shopping at Ebates' online stores you'll find the same eclectic furnishings and decor, often times for much less. So forget the Anthropologie coupon, it's time to stop searching and start shopping!

The trick to achieving this look is to combine French Country furnishings with Bohemian decor. At Home Decorators Collection you'll earn cash back on rustic pieces like their Heirloom collection, while saving hundreds of dollars compared to similar styles elsewhere. Looking for funky accessories? Shop Urban Outfitters for 2% Cash Back as well as huge selection of home decor, furnishings, and bedding. With so many stores to choose from, creating the look you want is easy and less expensive. Say goodbye to the Anthropologie coupon and say hello to Ebates! 

Looking for deals on design? Shop our Home & Garden category.

A little bit ago, I mentioned our Shop NBC coupons as a great way to save on tons of random stuff at Shop NBC, but I didn't take a minute or two to actually find some things that I enjoyed. Aside from electronics, lolcats, and long walks on the beach, I enjoy curling up with some good TV in a nice golden chair. With 3% cash back at ShopNBC, you can save on much, much more than just your favorite TV shows.

Shop NBC's selection of stuff is so random, it's amazing. You've got jewelery coupons for up to 70% off, laptop and MP3 acessories, kitchen gadgets and even...coins? Yeah. Coins. If you're ever in need of some matching bouillon to go with your Dynasty Gold Chair (search for it), Shop NBC has you covered.  And with the 15% off coupon on our ShopNBC coupon page, you can save extra on practically everything!


And at the end of the day: don't forget your cash back with Ebates!

Not to over-share too much here, folks, but this semester I am finally finishing my master's program, and I plan to throw a huge graduation party. However, student loans mean I don't have a lot of money to spend on said party. Naturally, my solution is the Oriental Trading Company, where I can find all sorts of party supplies for a whole lot less.

Luckily, when I visited the site this afternoon, I was able to find an Oriental Trading Coupon code for Free Shipping! Just enter the code "OTCAPR49" at checkout today through midnight Central time, and your order over $49 will ship for free. Add all these great deals up with 3% Cash Back at Oriental Trading Company, and even a starving student can find enough deals to turn a little get-together into a great summer kick-off event!

If you're looking to find something to bring to your favorite graduate's party (or mine...), stop by the Flowers & Gifts page over at Ebates for all sorts of ideas.

Shopping for luxurious furniture can easily deplete one's bank account, if you're not careful. Being that carefree shopping is a passion of mine, I'm thrilled to announce the warehouse sale at Horchow. Not only will I save 25% on select furniture and rugs, but by shopping at Horchow I'll get 3% Cash Back.

The beauty of this warehouse sale is there's no need for Horchow coupons, or other tricky maneuvers to save the most cash. It's all done for you with discount prices prominently displayed. For those not in the market for furniture or rugs, there's also select Spring merchandise reduced 35-40%. Choose from bedding, decor, lighting, and even furniture. All at low prices. With so many ways to save, it's quite possible to furnish an entire house, let alone a single room. If you've been meaning to add a little something to your home, shop the Horchow Warehouse Sale and do it for less.

Find more savings for the home in our Home & Garden category

Here at Ebates, going green is rewarding for both the environment, and your wallet. Shop our green merchants like Gaim for 6% Cash Back, coupons, and other special offers. Thanks to Ebates, you can now help save the planet while saving yourself big bucks.

A constant favorite of mine, Gaiam is a one-stop shop for those looking to lessen their carbon footprint. Whether you're looking for personal care, home decor, or clothing, you'll always find plenty of Gaiam coupons to help save you money. In celebration of Earth Day, use coupon code EDEMC for 20% savings on green home products like organic towels and recycled rugs. Or, if you've been wanting to reduce your litter, purchase a stainless steel water canteen. These products are made using sustainable practices that will not have negative effects on the environment. Hurry, because this coupon expires tonight! That water bottle, on the other hand, will last a lifetime.

Check out our green merchants and start earning cash back!

I don't know what you all must think of me after the running themes of my postings. First it was Bier Boot Haus, then Mr. Beer, now, the final piece of the puzzle is dropping in to place: Kegerator.com. "What is a kegerator?" you ask? As some of you linguists probably picked up on, it's a keg-refrigerator. You put the keg in the bottom, tap it, and there is a bar-style draft tap on the top of the refrigerator which will almost immediately supply you with cool refreshing beer.

What makes the beer taste even better is the fact that you will be earning 3% Cash Back from this fine purveyor of beverage-chilling technology. Pair that with the infinite possibility of online coupon codes, and you may even save enough money to buy that first keg to fill your kegerator with!

If you share my joy in imbibing fine spirits, check out our Food & Wine category for more sales and cash back!

There comes a point when talking about Spring sounds more like a sales pitch than a reason to shop. Catch phrases like "Spring Has Sprung" or "New Season, New You" can sound as unappealing as a used car salesman screaming "No money down!" on TV. Rather than use these tired metaphors, I'll just get to the point- save money on home improvements with Home Depot Rebates. There, that was easy. And guess what? Shop Home Depot through Ebates and you'll also receive 3% cash back. Piece of cake.

The savings start by clicking on the Savings Center, where you can choose from reduced items, sales, and enough rebate offers to satisfy even the most frugal shoppers. Looking for new appliances? Shop Maytag appliances and receive a Mastercard valued up to $600. People telling you to lighten up? Do it and save up to 60% on select lighting fixtures. If you're not quite sure where to begin, check out the Spring Projects section for tips and tricks on everything from home decor to the garden. Speaking of gardens, green thumbs can join the Home Depot Garden Club and receive exclusive savings just for being a member. With so many ways to save even novices will feel right at home making home improvements, so if you've got a few projects planned, head over to The Home Depot, and remember...

At The Home Depot, Low Prices Are Just The Beginning

Here at Ebates, we welcome Spring with a feverish attitude, and our Spring Promo reflects that. We've teamed up with our top merchants to give you increased cash back, the best free coupons, and great savings to boot. Springtime is all about reanimation, so sit back, relax, and let the transformation begin.

When it comes to transforming my home, West Elm is a one stop shop. Nowhere else will I find the latest styles in home design, or amazing coupons like saving $150 on a West Elm storage bed. Aside from the plethora of coupons, this site boasts a sale section so good, it will satisfy even the most frugal of shoppers. The cube sectional pictured at left is now just $199, and if you're looking for pillows with that couch, you'll find them starting at $9.99. During our Spring Promo, shop West Elm and enjoy an increased cash back of 4% at Ebates.



April showers bring May flowers, but who wants to wait that long for the fresh aroma of new blossoms? Patience has never been one of my virtues, so in order to satiate my senses, I headed over to Kohls. There the collection of Home Scents start at just $4.99, and decorative accents start at $7.49. Other great bargains include saving 15% on purchases over $100 with code EBATESAPRIL. In addition to great prices, enjoy increased cash back to 3% at Ebates during our Spring Promo. Happy shopping and happy Spring from Ebates!

Check out our Home and Garden category for even more savings.

Inspired by the First Lady, I decided to try my hand at planting my own garden. Having never done so, I'm not quite sure what to expect. Starting a garden depends on so many factors, it seems almost magic when things do grow. In a situation filled with the uncertain, there's one thing I know I can depend on, Ebates. Thanks to their online rebates, I'll earn cash back and find some great discounts. If only they gave out green thumbs too.



In my search for garden supplies, I headed over to Gurney's Seed And Nursery. This gardener's paradise is literally a one-stop shop for seeds, grasses, flowers, even common household plants. Their selection of vegetable seeds includes favorites like broccoli, carrots, sweet corn, and peppers. For those with a sweet tooth, you'll also find yummy fruit and berry seeds, perfect for those hot summer days. Can you say a la mode? Thanks to their search friendly site and mini tutorials, even brown thumbs like myself will feel at ease in the land of green. Speaking of green, when I shop Gurney's Seed and Nursery through Ebates, I'll earn 8% cash back. Fresh food and extra cash in my pocket? No wonder I shop Ebates.

Want to start your own garden? Check out our Garden Stores.

At first glance, you may look at this black on white collection of photo frames and think... wow, where's all the color?

But in the words of rock ancients Def Leppard:

Huh!
Photograph... I don't want your
Photograph... I don't need your
Photograph... All I've got is a photograph, but its not enough

What am I getting at? I'm not sure. But some color would really help, and with today's technology and discounts on great cameras, you shouldn't have too much trouble there. 

If you still feel like seeing Def Leppard in concert, you are lucky - they are still touring.  And in the meantime, regardless of what photos you want or need, these nifty set of frame will bring your pics to life in a hurry. Only at Red Envelope, where you will earn 6% cash back when you use your Ebates account.

Spring cleaning for me used to be a tedious process that was both costly and time consuming. Before I knew about Online Rebates, my plan of attack was to head over to the local supermarket where I would pay top dollar for hazardous chemicals guaranteed to give me a migraine before the day's end. In an effort to make this year a more pleasurable and cost effective affair, I'm buying smarter and greener products.


Dirty carpets are the bane of every homeowner's existence. Carpets are a breeding ground for irritants such as dirt, germs, and allergens. Keeping your carpet clean used to be a time consuming task, however the Kenmore DuraPower Vacuum makes it a breeze. This bagless vacuum features a dirt sensor and HEPA filtration system that traps 99% of dirt and allergens. Your carpets will not only look better, but they'll hold fewer irritants and germs, two factors that make this vacuum a must-have for those with children. I found it at Sears, where'll I'll earn 2% cash back through Ebates. As an added bonus, for a limited time, select Kenmore vacuums are on sale at Sears. The one I mentioned is 20% off, making it smart for your home and wallet.

When it comes to chemicals, those designed for cleaning bathrooms can be the most caustic and dangerous to your health. MotherNature.com is a one stop destination for natural cleaning supplies, such as Life Tree household products. Their Tea Tree and Lavender Bathroom Cleaner is made from concentrated plant oils, and is guaranteed to clean and deodorize all household surfaces. Without having to look for Online Coupon Codes, I found this and other Life Tree natural products on sale at MotherNature.com. Being a member of Ebates, when I shop MotherNature I'll earn 7% cash back. Less headaches and more cash in my pocket? Thanks Ebates!

Check out our Home and Garden category for additional savings!

At this point in time, most of you have seen the wondrous vacuuming robot called Roomba; whether you have one, know someone who does, or just have seen this video:  While they are a fun-filled means of kitten transportation, I find that they really are at their most effective when performing the duty they were constructed to do: cleaning floors. 

Today only, you don't need the luck of the Irish to save some serious coin. You can save a ton on a new Roomba to sweep your floors (with or without a feline pilot): buy a Roomba Scheduler at $50 off the regular price, you'll get a free Pet Upgrade Kit (a $30 value), and you'll get it all shipped for free! Act quickly - this great deal only lasts through St. Patrick's Day, so before you make your way down to the pub, head over to Ebates to take advantage of this great deal and earn 3% cash back while you're at it.

Find any number of robots to do your bidding at the iRobot store.

I must admit that occasionally I fall off the bandwagon, verbally committing to something (like hitting the gym four days a week) that I fail to physically act on. I am the master of procrastination, and sometimes "getting around to it" can take awhile. Such is the case when it comes to redesigning my apartment. Spending loads of money on furniture and decor is something I simply can't afford, but not doing so means I'm stuck with interiors that bore me to tears. My solution? Head over to Target, where I'll get 4% cash back through Ebates, and save on countless furniture items.

When redecorating, always start with the livingroom, or front quarters of your house. This is the main focal point of your living environment, and the place most frequented by guests. Before you start making irrational and costly purchases, think of factors like space, floor layout, and light. My house doesn't get that much light and dark furniture can make it seem cluttered and heavy. In order to create the illusion of light, I'll need the proper furniture and decor. One of the most beautiful and cheery places on earth is Necker Island (pictured above). The interiors of the main house harness everything that is wonderful about island living. Lots of light, bright colors, and warm breezes. This Yoga TV Stand is earthy and rustic, yet the stain is light and cheery. The design of this piece matches the furniture from the photo, and the 30% off matches my limited cash flow. 

Today marks the start of Daylight Savings Time for most folks across the United States, and whether you like it or not, it's officially time to "spring forward." In other words, we're attempting to hit the hay earlier and inevitably wake up groggier - all in the name of sunlight. Pretty valiant, huh? Or course, if you're like most of us you aren't getting up every day with the help of your "internal clock" anyways, so why not upgrade your alarm clock for something truly nice.  Something extra awesome, with outstanding sound and iPod/iPhone connectivity? If so, the iHome is perfect for you - and only $85 with 1% Ebates cash back from Buy.com!

Even though losing an hour in the name of sunlight may be a great thing on paper, it's not always the easiest thing for me to do. Between remembering to set the darn clock, planning to get up an hour earlier than I'd ever like to, and getting the correct day right, Daylight Savings Time can cause an absolute mess if done wrong. That's why the iHome is such a great little device: it has an easy "DST" setting to "spring" your clock for you. On top of the easy-set nature of the iHome, it also comes with a ton of features to get you up in the morning. With two separate alarms and multiple "source" options to wake to - and snooze to - the iHome is great for almost everyone. 

As the weather continues to warm up, albeit very slowly, my focus has shifted from trying to survive winter to preparing for Spring. Just like a pedicure is essential for warm weather, so is a de-winterized home. When money is tight, redesigning your home can seem like a costly luxury. The trick to designing on a budget is putting your money into things that create the biggest change but for the least amount of money.

Two major trends that are popping up in home design this Spring are the use of bold colors and an emphasis on green living. As the world grows smaller, cultures from around the world are heavily influencing design, especially in regards to color. Home decor magazines often show houses that look as if they've been transformed into a Moroccan bazaar or a Mexican hacienda. The most cost-effective way to channel the vibrancy of these cultures is with a new coat of paint. Like many household products, paint has seen a greening effect. Many companies are now making a conscious effort to reduce toxic ingredients such as Volatile Organic Compounds. The Freshaire Choice is one company that eliminated VOC's from both paint and colorant. Their paint has no odor, and is certified by the GreenGuard Environmental Institute. You'll find this safe alternative at Home Depot where you'll also receive 3% cash back from Ebates. With over sixty colors to choose from, you'll have no trouble finding the perfect shade for your interiors.

Fantasizing (prematurely, of course) about what I would buy with my tax refund, I thought of everything: that pair of shoes that I don't need, those jeans that look like everything I have but I swear are different, or the new beauty product that I will cram into my overflowing medicine cabinet. I tried but could think of nothing that stirred the excitement I typically expect from frivolous, guilt-free purchases. Mid-fantasy, whilst waiting for my tarnished dinosaur of a tea kettle to finally whistle, I realized that my answer was staring me right in the face. I was in desperate need for a new kettle. That thing takes forever to boil and with all my french-pressing and tea-making in a hurry, I need something that is much more efficient than what I have. Furthermore, it is crucial that I speed up my morning routine because, quite honestly, I would rather spend time consuming my coffee than preparing it.

If you think finding the right vessel for boiling water is an easy task, think again. I quickly learned that a tea kettle has the amount of options as features on a new car (or strollers, as I am learning from my pregnant friend), and combined with my requirements of the kettle, I needed to put in some serious time finding the right one for me. I have a small San Francisco apartment with a kitchen that is more like a galley on a boat rather than a proper kitchen, so I need something that is both compact and aesthetically pleasing because with a small kitchen, nearly everything is on display all the time. And, as I mentioned before, I need something efficient - I want to decrease the amount of time without coffee in the morning, because quite literally, I cannot function, whatsoever. Capitalizing on an early morning caffeine buzz (that I waited entirely too long for), I found this Capresso Electric Kettle from Sur La Table and knew I had happened upon my kettle match. Available for $59.95 with 4% cash back, this kettle has it all: it is pleasing to the eye and compact enough even for my kitchen. Plus, its safety features like auto-shutoff, heat resistant glass, and cool touch handle all reaffirm that I am a danger and a menace in the morning without caffeine, so those kinds of features are important. Suffice to say, this kettle is a smart choice.

Like most things these days, furniture seems to be losing it's personality. Over-consumption and mass marketing have done to furniture what fast food did to the waistline. The days of mom and pop furniture design have been replaced with mega warehouses selling build-it-yourself dressers and Swedish meatballs. It used to be the only way to find furniture whose purpose went beyond merely function, was through extensive searching, or random luck. Thanks to eBay (3% cash back), luck has been replaced with a search function, and extensive traveling to antique stores has been replaced with a few clicks. While I would never give up my weekend antiquing, I will say there are some things better done at home.

American's today purchase their furniture in the same fashion they purchase milk. Both have an expiration date, and neither is considered especially important. I must admit that I too could once be accused of buying disposable furniture, and I suppose this isn't such a bad thing for those living with roommates who have yet to grasp the concept of cleanliness. No longer being subjected to other people's ideas of design has allowed me to create a home that reflects my personality as much as my clothing.

When it comes to furniture design, I tend to prefer simpler styles such as Mid-Century Modern. The credenza pictured above illustrates the simple lines and organic finish that characterized this movement. Although copies of this style are abundant, the craftsmanship cannot be compared. I've seen pieces from this era selling in antique shops for thousands of dollars, however the current bid on this piece is just $500. While browsing eBay I came across bed frames, chairs, tables, and more, all from this era. While some are on the higher end of the price tag, most are extremely reasonable. Your home is an investment not meant to be filled with less than par furniture. No matter what your taste, the selection of eBay will cater to it, and, chances are, for much less.   

When it comes to entertaining there are two types of people: those who attend parties, and those who throw parties. I'm of the latter crowd, and although planning a party can be rather stressful, it keeps my mind busy, something not easily done. That's why I'm excited to be hosting my first Oscar party. The Oscars are all about elegance, and every Oscar party should make your guests feel like they're a celebrity. With the tube doing all the entertaining, all I need is great atmosphere, good food, and, of course, amazing gift bags.

Candles are a great way to set the mood but a crowded house runs the risk of spilling hot wax, and yikes! Fires. Party Brights (5% cash back) carries everything from LED flameless candles to paper lanterns and string lights. If a chic atmosphere is what you desire, this site has you covered.

Like all things in life, city dwelling has its ups and downs. Although urbanites enjoy conveniences such as easy public transportation, most of us lack the luxury of doing laundry at home. An apartment with a built in washer/dryer is as hard to find in the city as a decent parking space. Laundromats are a commodity here in San Francisco, and they can range from the mundane to the ostentatious. My favorite is located a few miles from my house where there's live music and a full service coffee shop. Just another reminder that laundromats are as much a part of the community as the local dive bar. Coincidentally they're also pick up joints, filled with single people carefully eying each others dirty clothes searching for signs of a significant other.

The culture of the phone call seems to have all but died, with nothing in it's path but obnoxious ring tones, and people yelling "Can you hear me now?" What once was the center of a household is now an annoying toy that is either beeping or having a seizure. Phones today are a far cry from the wall fixture whose receiver lingered with the scent of my grandfather's aftershave, and whose cord was perfect for twirling while I talked to my crush. 

Ever wonder what happened to the phone?

By the time I was in the midst of teenage angst, there was a cordless phone in just about every household except for my best friend's. Her house hadn't been remodeled since the seventies, and the phone (just like the rest of the kitchen) was avocado green. Made by Stromberg-Carlson, her phone resembled the model above, and it's sturdy weight gave every incoming call a sense of importance. In a family of six, fights would ensue if someone didn't get their turn. My house had an AT&T 5500 cordless phone exactly like the one below. The receiver was wide enough to land a Boeing 787, and the metal antenna (who's range barely made the next room) was almost a foot in length.

The world of unmarried people can be split into two groups. Those who co-habitate and those who have their freedom. The number of unmarried people sharing a household is steadily climbing as traditional views of marriage change with the times. Living with a significant other before getting married is a litmus test for whether or not a relationship is meant to be. Regardless of how well two people know each other, co-habitation is like opening the Pandora's Box of single-people issues. He thinks there's only one way to fold a towel, and she never realized this was a 5-star hotel. When it comes to living together, the difference between breaking up, and blowing up can be summed up in one word: space.

When everything is shared, a little selfishness goes a long way. For those who live in already cramped quarters, it's important to make the most out of what little space you do have. After moving in with the bf, I lost a space where I could paint, draw, make jewelry, and be alone. I realize the latter was part of co-habitation, but I desperately wanted to have a spot for the things that mattered to me. I've previously mentioned the elfa storage system as a way to maximize closet space, but did you know that elfa can also help maximize space in the office, kitchen, garage, and laundry room? In fact, there isn't a part of the house (or apartment) that elfa can't organize.

Men are fickle creatures, and I should know. I am one, and readily admit to being both fickle and a creature. Because of this, women often times have the trickiest job of finding something, anything for their loverboys. While very few guys will turn down a bunch of chocolate (after all, who would?), chances are your (literally) sweet gifts are getting a little stale year after year. Why not try and spice things up a little bit and get him something that he won't just masticate? Even though they might not be for every man, one of these electronic gifts are likely to make your special someone smile when V-day finally approaches.


Gift Idea #1: JBL OnStage iPod Portable Loudspeaker

It's gratuitous generalization time: All men love music! As such, they probably have some sort of portable doodad to go along with it; likely something from Apple's iPod line (if not, get him one!). Another thing men like to do is rock, and that's exactly what this JBL Loudspeaker Dock is designed to do. It's small in size, but big in power, and lets him hear his tunes loud and proud in any room he takes it to. Better yet, it's $10 off right now at Sears! What's not to like about that?

Today Punxsutawney Phil saw his shadow, thus predicting another six weeks of winter. As much as I love the movie Groundhog's Day, I don't love having to spend another six weeks feeling trapped in the same routine. When Spring is so close, yet so far away, boredom sets in. Quickly.

Much like winter clothing can seem tiresome at this point, so does a winter household. Coming home day after day to throw blankets, heavy down pillows, and dark colors is making me as depressed and lifeless as Bill Murray's character Phil Connors.

Murphy's Law says whatever can happen, will happen. Such was the case Friday when I seemed to have entered the Bermuda Triangle of stupidity, which, although entirely my fault, wasn't any less annoying. Until I reached my desk, the morning consisted of spilled coffee, an ill-working umbrella, drenched clothing, and wild hair fit for a grizzly bear.

Note To Self: Do Not Forget Where The Car Is Parked

Question To Self: How's Do You Lose A 2000lb Piece Of Metal?

Answer To Self: Listen, Like I Haven't Done Worse

After a rather normal day at work I set off to a very special birthday party for a very special five year old. My gifts were books for the birthday girl, and lots of wine for mom and I. Although I have yet to have children, friends of mine that have taken the leap into diaper land, always seem to be elated whenever I come around. I always thought this was due to my outstanding personality, but apparently it's the alcohol and promise of a "grownup" night. "You have no idea how nice it is to talk to an adult" they always gush. "Really?" I wonder. Because my adult filled day consisted of a rude bus driver, a pissy bf, and a slightly neurotic mom. Right now, your one year old is looking like the coolest human I've been around in weeks.

The one thing I take away from visits with my mommy friends is their need to have a place to unwind. Between the kids toys and the husband's dirty socks everywhere, the moms I know are in desperate need of a little atmosphere. A world in which they can unwind and pretend they're, well, me for an hour. A good friend of mine gave up on having an entire room to herself, so instead she transformed a corner of a room. She hung a shelved mirror adorned with candles, purchased a comfy rocking chair, and added some throw pillows for comfort. She now has "Mommy Time" by turning the chair to face the wall and whipping out a book. Her children think she's "time-outing" herself, but hey, whatever works, works.

An easy way to create atmosphere is through the use of candles. There's something incredibly calming about the glow of a candle, and these Metal Orb Chandeliers are a great way to add charm without worrying junior will burn the house down. I love the modern/romantic look of these wrought-iron chandeliers, and since these are hung from the ceiling, there's zero risk of spilling hot wax. The picture shows these with imitation leaves, but I like the idea of the votives being alone, plus it gives more light. I also like that these are 50% off, for a savings of $64. Placed in a corner, or hung in the bathroom, these modern day chandeliers add warmth and peace to a hectic household.

Another thing I assume eases mom's mind is having a clutter-free house. I know how easy it is for a house to get cluttered when there's more than one person living there, but more than two? I'd lose my mind. Thankfully there's furniture designed for the storage and hiding of anything you don't need lying around. Nothing does this better than a classic mudroom/entry way bench. This Mission Storage Bench from Target is perfect for hiding shoes, umbrellas, or anything else that can be described as "clutter." It costs just $129.99, and you'll receive 4% cash back, adding some savings to your peace of mind. A great addition to any room, this bench also makes a great storage place for linens or pillows, it even holds a fair share of toys. It may not be the fanciest piece of furniture, but as my mommy friends know, it's the simple things in life that count. If only they taught this to singles like myself...
 





For any childless women out there with childful friends - do something nice and offer a free night of babysitting. It will keep your loved ones sane, and will give you a better excuse than PMS to bake yet another batch of cookies. When it's your turn to be the mom, you'll be glad to receive all the helping hands you can get.

Jim Mora put it best:



But for a change, I am talking about playoffs. I'm talking about hanging out with my friends on a Sunday afternoon, loosening my belt, stuffing myself with anything that can be dropped into a deep fryer, and slipping into semi-consciousness with visions of two point conversions dancing in my head.

While the four remaining teams in the hunt for the Lombardi Trophy are giving it their all, I will be planting my beer and fried food-inflated butt into a nice comfortable couch. If you are really a football fan, and you really want to do things right (and I mean right) then I have just the chair for you.

I present the Ore International Football Chair & Ottoman from Target. I've seen the football-shaped beanbag chairs, but who wants to spend the duration of a day's worth of football in an amorphous lump of cushioning? This chair and ottoman set provides the comfort you need to make it from mini-camps to the Super Bowl and everything in between. Plus, with your Ebates account, you'll be getting 4% cash back on the $350 you can spend on this chair.



$350 may sound like a lot... but can you really put a price on the jaw-dropping awesomeness that is this chair?

It's common knowledge that stress can lead to a number of health problems, and ultimately shorten one's life span. In the past, I managed my stress effectively by simply ignoring it, however doing so hasn't exactly worked toward my benefit. As any adult living on their own, I was soon to realize avoiding certain stresses, such as bills or food shopping, can lead to increased stress levels once I arrived home to darkness and a bare cupboard. Over the years I have found much more enjoyable ways to lower my stress levels while remaining in the light and with a full tummy.

One of my favorite de-stressers is a long and soothing bath. Not the kind with mountainous piles of bubbles which always de-foam leaving overly soapy water, but the detoxing, mind clearing kind. If you haven't already heard your grandmother raving about the wonders of an epsom salt bath, I suggest you start listening. Traditionally used for muscle aches or bruises, a few cups of epsom salt will do wonders for your energy and mental health. The thick and coarse salt draws excess fluids and toxins out of your body making you feel lighter (not thinner) and more energized. One a mission to use only natural products on my body I was delighted to find these Dead Sea Mineral Bath Salts on sale for $24 at MotherNature.com. Made from organic salts, this bath time ritual is great for achy joints, sore muscles, and even arthritis, as it reduces inflammation. I find it handy to also pour in some baking soda to neutralize any toxins being released. No need to soak in toxin-filled water that will re-absorb into the skin as you soak. If there's no wine handy I like to sip on Green Tea, or water with a lemon wedge.

After quality time spent thinking of nothing, I usually enjoy vegging out to the tube, but having just started a page turning book, I find myself curled up the couch for another reason. Not wanting to hand over my entire paycheck for heating costs, I find a good throw blanket keeps me warm and toasty and also reduces the amount of energy I consume. It's not much, but I like to do my part. A quality throw blanket that is warm and chic is much harder to find than one would think. As much as I love cartoon characters and Hannah Montana, I feel both are a bit too childish, and would not represent me very well to any potential suitors.

Known for their trendy home decor as well as trendy clothing, Urban Outfitter's sells a plethora of throws and quilts, along with everything else a "happening" girl such as myself could need. This Fleur Patchwork Quilt is available in a twin, making it the perfect sized blanket for keeping toasty, or hiding from the mailman when he comes to deliver more bills. Luckily for me this quilt is 60% off, making it just $39.99. I love the vintage "my-grandmother-made-it" feel to this quilt, and it's a must-have for not just drafty houses, but drafty dorm rooms as well. Shop at Urban Outfitter's and receive 2% cash back.

While there are many ways to manage stress, most cost an arm and a leg, and never truly do the trick. Why not keep those limbs warm with a hot bath and a warm quilt? In fact, you can shop for these items while under the sorry excuse for a blanket currently being used. All thanks to Ebates!

Sometimes, when times are tough, the little things are all you really have to hold on to. With a tumultuous stock market, creeping unemployment rate, and the usual hum-drumming of life, it's important to have something to turn to for guidance and support. For some, family members and friends help fill that need for a confidant in times of strife. For others, it's all about the Solar-Powered Mystic Gnomes.

Solar-powered mystic gnomes? Yes, solar powered mystic gnomes. When the streets are hardly safe from both police and villains alike, there's something to be said about a gnomish creature that is both "darling during the day,[and] enchanting [during the] night." In these times, you need the kind of support that only an enchanting, darling gnome can give you - without any of those looming fears of rejection, injury, and possibly theft.

Now this solar-powered gnome is not unlike every other gnome out there on the market, save for one specific caveat: it's a *mystic* little beast. Deep inside it's furrowed brow is a mind steadily at work solving all the world's problems from biggies like global hunger, down to the little things like an ill-lit corner of your garden. With this mysterious little halfling afoot, you'll never have to worry about creatures scurrying about your foliage in the night. Its all-seeing solar orb will both figurative and literally light your path and allow you to see the way; far more than can be said of other porcelain creatures that purport to have mystical properties.

At the end of the day, this little $40 solar-powered mystic gnome may not seem quite as spellbinding as other creatures that lurk about the Housewarming section of Target. But to this I ask, truly, what house is complete without a gnome of some sort? Take it for adventures, prop it atop a stone altar, or just toss it haphazardly into your garden - the choice is up to you. The mystic gnome will always be there for you, through good times and bad alike. And in the end, that's really what matters, isn't it?

Let me tell you a story.

A not-too-long time ago in a kingdom resembling a major California city famous for being located on a Bay, a dashing young prince bought a cheap-as-can be DVD player. See, back at the castle, the prince's enchanted TV was not really all that enchanted, so it didn't make sense for the prince to spend his already meager finances on a high-end DVD player, so he got the most basic "all I can do is play movies" kind of DVD player he could find. This DVD player also came with a cursed remote. Apparently the dark wizard who assembled this remote was evil and sadistic, so he possessed it with an evil demon. In the first six months in which the dashing prince owned this DVD player, the cursed remote began acting funny.

Unfortunately, since this was a bottom-of-line DVD player, it did not come with Ye Olde Factory Warranty.

Alarmed at the prospect of facing a future where all he could do was turn the machine on or off, eject discs, and hit either play or stop, the dashing prince decided to take matters into his own hands. He suited up in his armor, opened up the cursed remote, and prepared to do battle. Apparently the evil demon which possessed the remote had caused the battery to leak, which lead to a breakage in the battery tab on the circuit board of the remote. Upon even further inspection, the evil demon had also detached an enchanted capacitor from it's spot on the motherboard. 

Undeterred, the dashing prince took up his trusty soldering gun and tried to repair the evils done upon the poor land of RemoteControlia. Some time later, the prince emerged victorious. The bewitched remote control had been restored, the dark wizard had been thwarted, and the demon from inside the remote had been exorcised. He went to celebrate with a tall glass of mead, a leg of mutton, and the boxed set of The Simpsons - Season Nine.

Long story short: soldering irons are fantastic if you have a general concept of circuitry and electronics, but should only be used by those who know how. Remember that opening up consumer electronics will void warranties, and you also have that nagging ever-present threat of electrocution which has a nasty side effect known as death.


Still, if you know what you're doing and have the space to work, a soldering iron will pay dividends. For just $30, you can be repairing all your electronics with minor issues, mending broken wires, and wreaking general havoc. While there are very high end soldering sets out there, I have always been most comfortable with the traditional soldering gun, and recommend it as a safe and controlled starting point. Not only will you save money on electronics you can repair instead of replace (the green choice as well, might I add) you will also get 2% cash back when you use your Ebates account (the choice to save some green).

It's common knowledge that color affects the human psyche, yet not many people understand how deeply color moves us as individuals. Bold, bright, neon colors can make one excited, or even insane. Colors which have been grayed down can be calming, and are commonly used in hospitals, which is why there always seems to be blue walls. Green triggers the brain to think of health (green vegetables) and many food companies use this psychology to sell their goods as healthy for you, yet I recommend reading the label as the safest bet. A burgundy red is warming, yet a cherry red can be cooling due to the presence of white. Once the language and psychology of color is understood, it makes designing your home (or wardrobe) much easier.

If, like me, you tend to get into a funk during winter (or fail to remember you're human and not a bear who hibernates) it may be due to the absence of color. For most of the country, the Winter months mean a complete lack of such a significant stimulus, unless of course you count the grey/black and utterly disgusting color of week old snow. Assuming that's not something you take into consideration when decorating, let's move on. In regards to the home, there are many easy and inexpensive ways to trick yourself into thinking it's not really eight degrees and snowing. Developing another personality named Rita who lives in Miami is one way, yet there is a risk of being hospitalized, in which case you'd be stuck staring at the awful blue walls.

A much more cost-effective way to put the Spring back in your step is by adding flowers to the home, Silk Flowers.com to be exact. Silk flowers not only add a splash of lively color, but they are extremely cost-effective as well. There's no messy clean-up or constant purchasing needed, and being that these are made from silk, they look just like the real thing. The selection on this site ranges from roses to snapdragons, as well as wreaths, centerpieces, and even silk trees. You'll receive a whopping 10% cash back when shopping this site, which is just as beautiful as the flowers are.


Home and Garden Tip: Instead of common glass or ceramic vases, try an old wine bottle. The look is very rustic country, and therefore summery. I love finding old wine bottles, or jugs for that matter at scrap yards or thrift stores. If you don't happen to live near any of these places, ebay is an amazing source for vintage goods. The upside to shopping for your every need at home? Besides staying out of the cold you'll also receive 3% cash back.

It's no surprise that what defines Winter varies as much as the temperature does. In San Francisco, Winter means rain and a low of about 45 degrees. In Boston, yesterday to be exact, Winter meant 14 degrees with a new blanket of snow. It was so cold that no matter how bundled in multiple layers I was, my feet froze inside my shoes, my legs hurt under my jeans, and the skin on my face (the only exposed part of me) was burning from the air, otherwise known as the first stage of frostbite. It may seem like I a dreadful situation, however I welcomed the piercing cold and the mounds of snow I trudged through. I used to hibernate during these cold, harsh months, but after a long hatred with December through March, I have come to embrace the Winter and all that it brings. While some may only experience disgruntled people or bitter cold, there's much beauty to be seen such as snow covered branches, a winter sunset filled with pale blues and yellows, or the look of icicles hanging from gas-lit lamp posts.

It's with this new resolve of embracing the season that I see the importance of embracing it in the home as well. Instead of wishing for Spring, why not celebrate the beauty of Winter, by creating your own Winter Wonderland? The right furniture and decor can instantly add charm and enhance this most hated season.

While browsing the winter clearance sale at Horchow, I came across this Mirrored Vanity. The mirrored finish pays homage to an ice covered world, and will look equally chic adorned with bright flowers (Summer) or a tray of fresh picked pinecones (fall). If the chic and feminine look doesn't pull you in, perhaps saving $200 while recieving 4% cash back will help seal the deal. Instead of rushing through Winter mornings half asleep and freezing, why not enjoy a cup of coffee next to the warm glow of a lamp and this beautiful piece? I can't think of a more lovely or tranquil place to do one's make-up and get ready for the day ahead, and it is common knowledge that starting your morning off on a good foot leads to a good day. When the temperature won't hit double digits, good days may seem hard to come by. 

While I shun away from buying fur, crocodile, snakeskin, or any other animal for that matter, I do have an affinity for all things leather. I realize this makes me a walking contradiction and a hypocrite to boot, but in my mind leather is the lesser of these many evils. After all, leather comes from the same cow being used for food, so to me the whole process is resourceful, and not wasteful like fur. No one eats minks, or foxes (for the most part) and wearing them is well, let's just say it's not for me. I don't need to offend anyone, which is very easy being as "opinionated" as I am.

My love for leather spans from apparel to home goods. My leather boot collection ranges from classic black riding to rustic cowboy. As for my favorite leather bags, there's the vintage oversized saddle bag courtesy of my mother, and the slouchy "biker mama" bag courtesy of leather label Mike and Chris. Both are timeless and get me stares of envy (which I gladly accept). As with all obsessions/addictions this one takes commitment and constant searching to maintain. As I was browsing through Boot Barn, I came across this pair of Motorcycle Boots by Boulet. Not only is the dark slate grey "Mercedes Black" color a refreshing change from black or tan, but they also have a nine inch height, making them the perfect (and comfortable) ankle boot. The studded ankle strap dresses these boots up, and when paired with a super dainty top and some tight black jeans, dare I say they're club appropriate? In fact, any club that doesn't allow this killer boot is not a place I'll be spending my money.

As for home goods, there's nothing more appealing to me than a big leather chair. Something rustic that beckons me to sit and stay a while. This Antiqued Leather Chair From Horchow is a hybrid of old meets new. The tufted cushions remind me of an old Mae West movie, while the antique inspired distressed leather is somehow modern looking. Large enough for two people (wink wink) this chair demands nothing less than cashmere thermals and a handsome man to cuddle up with. (Preferably one who doesn't have a "time limit" on cuddling, and who isn't concerned with personal space.) I'd be lying if I said this chair was inexpensive, but craftsmanship like this doesn't come cheap these days. Just as a pair of Christian Louboutin heels are an investment in your wardrobe, this chair is an investment in your home. Less is more, and having such a grandiose piece like this chair eliminates the need for "room fillers," i.e., lots of cheap looking furniture.

Shopping through Ebates will earn you 3% cash back or a whopping $75! Think of it as a reward for shopping with taste.

In a previous blog, I talked about my disgust for tacky holiday decorations such as plastic wreaths, or for that matter anything plastic. It is my personal belief that the holidays shouldn't include plastic trees, fake snow, or any other tacky items. I've said it once, and I'll say it again: the holiday season is amateur hour in terms of decorating. The holidays to me are less about any religious beliefs, and more about the celebration of friends, family, and Winter. Having grown up in Boston, I have always had a love/hate relationship with Winter, and after years of dreading the cold months that followed Fall, I have finally accepted (and even look forward to) this peaceful season. Something about the crisp cold air, and the silence that comes in the night is very relaxing. While the Mercury doesn't drop below 45 in San Francisco, the ocean air will chill even the toughest East Coaster, making a heavy winter coat a necessity. Despite what some may think about California, it's not all palm trees and blonde babes running down a beach. San Francisco has a Winter that resembles any other city (minus the snow), and one can see trees lose their leaves and smell fireplaces roaring.

In celebration of this most hated season, I find myself drawn to home decor that pays homage to the essence of Winter, and the quiet hibernation that it brings. This Manzanita Candelabra is sculpted from a real Manzanita branch and features nickel plated aluminum. The bare branches adorned with candles is a festive yet elegant sight, and truly envokes the spirit of the season. While most retailers would sell a piece like this for upwards of $300, West Elm is selling it for just $99. If a candelabra isn't on your list, West Elm's collection of home decor, furniture, and everything in between will have you covered. The home decor section is enough to make the worst scrooge throw the best and most chic holiday party. If shopping for inexpensive home goods wasn't reason enough to pay a visit, enjoy 3% cash back and free shipping on a vast selection of products. It's West Elm's way of saying Happy Holidays!

Regardless of if you're a gun touting conservative, or a celery swinging hippie, everyone can agree that Global Warming cannot be ignored anymore. What was once thought to be the crazy rantings of environmentalists is now recognized as a global crisis that is impacting the entire planet. Rising sea levels are threatening coastal communities, warm seas are causing deadlier hurricanes, and in some parts of the world (like Australia) droughts are ravaging crops.

The phrase "Going Green" has long been plagued with negative connotations or images of dirty (and usually stoned) hippies, but nothing could be further from the truth. Going green simply put means to lesson one's Carbon Footprint. Carbon Dioxide or CO2 is the main culprit of global warming, so before you go out and spend thousands on solar panels, find out just how much of an impact you're making. Calculating your Carbon Footprint will give you a better idea, and it's also a great way to get tips on what you can do to help. The average American has a Carbon Footprint of 9.44, or in layman's terms, the average American produces 9.44 tons of carbon a year. My Carbon Footprint is 5.3, so although I am wreaking just a tad less havoc on the environment, there's always plenty more to do.

The first step to offsetting my footprint is to shop for energy efficient everything at ChangeForGreen.com. From energy efficient light bulbs to water saving shower heads, Change For Green has everything you need to save the environment and save money on energy costs. Below is a list of four things every household in the world can use to save energy and reduce greenhouse emissions. By shopping at Change For Green, you'll receive 10% cash back.

1. Save water with an AM Chrome Hand Held Showerhead 

2. Keep warm air from escaping into your attic with this Attic Tent

3. Protect your energy efficient floodlights from the elements with Par-38 Shields

4. Stop drafts from entering the house with an Air Conditioner Cover

Be good to Mother Earth and she will be good to you!

If last night's finale of Top Design has you bummed and yearning for more, fret not and continue reading. While countless design blogs are ranting or raving about who should have won, I'll spare you the talk and get down to what's really important. Shopping the look.

My personal favorite was this living room done by Ondine. It's so quirky with a vintage feel that it balances off my love of minimal modern. I love how this room blends several design movements in a cohesive way, and it's got everything from bright color to retro wall paper, and enough zebra prints to fill the Serengeti. While it may seem a little overwhelming and (let's be honest) crazy, there's an order to achieving this clash of design worlds. The first step is to pick the room apart piece by piece. There are three major looks  going on in this room ranging from retro 80's to Post Mod 60's, but Ondine used small elements of each to keep things evenly balanced. The overall look is vintage, eclectic, and lots of fun.

Besides the bold wallpaper, the main focal point of the room is the brightly upholstered love seats. Think of a swinging 60's movie with go-go dancers, and that's the vibe you'll get from this post modern piece. Not only do they look fun, but they add a pop of color in a room filled with black, white, and metallics. A close comparison is the Passion Love Seat from TheFurniture.com. Done in candy apple red leather with high shine metal feet this love seat is an instant "pop" piece. Selling at $300 off the original, you'll receive 3% cash back as well, making for extra savings.

The next step to getting this look entails getting in touch with your wild side, and by that I mean Zebra prints. In the above photo, Ondine used pillows and an area rug to show off this fabric, but during my hunting I spotted a Zebra Accent Chair from Macy's that was too good to pass up. While some retailer's sell this style of chair for upwards of $1000, Macy's has it on sale for $399. By shopping at this 150 year old landmark, you'll earn a whopping 8% cash back plus get it all shipped for free; a savings that can be used toward accent pieces such as pillows or quirky a Flower Vase from Target. As if Target couldn't get any better, these vases sell as a set of three for just $29.99, and by shopping with Ebates you'll get 4% cash back.                                                                                                                           

Now that you have the basics, go to American Blinds, Wallpaper, and More and choose from hundreds of wall paper options ranging from traditional to modern. Any design is easy to achieve, but it takes patience, a clever eye, and Ebates to make it a whole lot cheaper.

A common myth about urban dwellers is that we have it all, and therefore need a reason to travel outside city limits. While we do have nearly everything the heart can desire here in San Francisco, there is one thing that is missing.......Target.
Yes, San Franciscans must travel up to twenty minutes outside our lovely bubble to reach Target, thus making it a planned trip. Although I would like to think that my reasons for loving Target are so unique and different from everyone else's (the urbanite complex), but it turns out they are the same two reasons for everyone: it's budget-friendly and they carry great stuff. Being a fan of Target's collaboration with top designers such as Jovovich Hawk, Rogan, and now Jonathan Saunders, meant I would show up the day of launch just as the store was opening. Needless to say, now that I know about Ebates, I use my Sundays for more practical things, like sleeping in and shopping online.

Aside from running to the clothing section (despite the look of embarrassment from the bf) I would always spend thirty minutes in the Home Decor section searching for new trinkets. I love how Target not only carries lots of boutique looking items at low prices, but they also group items together by theme, thus making it a lot easier to create a vibe in your home. My favorite theme (this week) is called Natural Lux, and it's a hybrid of earthy woods and shiny metals. The above Canvas Wall Art features a wood background with bird images painted in gold tone, and goes great with my love of Danish Modern furniture. Priced at just $19.99, it also goes great with my love of saving money.

Besides wall art, more quick and easy room picker-uppers are vases, pillows, or cute items such as this Wooden Trinket Box. Made from real wood and not plastic with a wood finish, this trinket box is not only charming and rustic, but it serves an important purpose: keeping your house clutter free. This box is great for hiding keys, receipts, even junk mail from view. If you're one of the few that has a habit of putting everything in it's place, then use this trinket box to store keepsakes such as old birthday cards, concert tickets, or love letters. At only $24.99, you've got an expensive "boutique" like item for an inexpensive "mass retailer" price. Add 4% cash back, and you've got a reason not to get out of bed.

Do I even have to mention the money you'll save on gas?

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.

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.

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.

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.

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!

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!

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.

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!

As women, there are certain guidelines by which we live our lives. Our mantras, if you will. Just as each woman is different from the rest, so are their mantras. For some women, this means swearing off white after Labor Day, for others it may entail a certain dietary regimen. Personally, the one motto I live by is "a pleasant home equals a pleasant mind."

Over the course of many years and apartments, I've found that a cluttered home often leads to my being lazy or forgetful. I'm sure this is not normal behavior, and could land me on Oprah as the woman who hoards, yet I've taken steps to remedy the problem. I've stopped creating walking paths through mountains of laundry, or allowing junk mail to grow into a massive pile of credit card offers and val-u-packs.

Despite all my efforts, being a jewelry designer means a constant purchasing of gems, chains, and beads, which can send me straight back to clutterville. I usually store these items in plastic containers and call it a day. My problem, however, is storing the finished product. Until recently, I solved this issue with hundreds of Ziploc bags. That all changed when I discovered this Jewelry Armoire at TheFurniture.com, which I can credit with saving me from trinket overload. This piece features seven drawers and two side compartments, making it perfect for storing my entire collection. Besides free shipping and 3% Cash Back, this item is priced at $100 off the retail price, making it affordable for a struggling artist such as myself.

Urbanites, or "city folk" as we have been called, spend a huge part of our lives trying to stand out. We take great care in knowing where to eat, what to wear, and where to find the best scene. Despite our attempts to be different from others who inhabit our zip code, we all share the same habits, one of which is apartment hopping. San Francisco is one big apartment swapping fiesta full of roommates, landlords, and overpriced rentals. The city never sits still, and neither do we.

Such was the case six months ago when I left my beloved neighborhood for a much quieter address. While I enjoy the peace of not being woken up at three in the morning to sirens and the like, I do miss the great restaurants, bars, and vintage stores that were mere blocks from my front stoop. A vintage shopping spree followed by sushi isn't as enjoyable when it entails taking a crowded bus or spending forty five minutes looking for parking.

The end of these excursions always found me plopped on my favorite chair, sipping a margarita and cringing at the financial damage done. Something about that chair, which I nicknamed "boyfriend", gave me peace and relaxation. Maybe it's the oversized wooden arm rests, or the rustic leather cushions that trick me into thinking I'm in a country cabin. Or maybe it's just that I'm lazy and like to sit... a lot. Either way, my favorite chair has seen me through ups and downs, and after nearly a decade, it's falling apart. After a very thorough search, I came across this dead ringer at Target, and immediately fell in love. All those mornings spent curled up with "boyfriend" and a cup of joe came rushing back. After seeing the 4% Cash Back and free shipping, I was quick to make a purchase. As if that wasn't enough, I also managed to get this animal-friendly version for just $270! I'll use this Cash Back to soften the blow of those shopping trips that go awry.

Most people around my age don't think much about entertaining.  Generally speaking, for myself, "entertaining" consists of making sure there is beer in the refrigerator and double checking that the TV works. I'm a guy, my friends are guys; we don't concern ourselves with throw pillows, area rugs, or place settings.  I'd much rather spend my "home accent" money on wall art, bookshelves and clocks (my two fetishes),  or on upgrading my home entertainment setup.  However, I'm reaching a point in my life where I'm employed, getting older by the day, and beginning to realize that I might have to go somewhere other than the thrift shop to pick up home decor. 

Rather than following the trend of so many of my contemporaries, I am trying to find furniture at places other than a certain Swedish home furnishing store.  I love 'em, and am always glad to support the economy of my homeland, but I think I've seen the same lamp in about twenty different friends' apartments. 

So after a little searching, I stumbled across this beautiful dinette at a price which still allows me to go out this weekend.  This Five Piece Dinette Set from JCPenney is just the right size for an apartment or smaller kitchen space, and at the crazy low price of $159.99, won't break the bank either. Finally, I can put the folding chairs and card tables back in the garage, where they belong, and have people over for dinner that doesn't involve my couch!

With 60% off of this beauty, you'll have saved enough to buy two weeks of groceries to make meals that you and your friends can enjoy on your beautiful new dinette set!

I have a sad admission to make: for all the reading I do, I don't have a good lamp to read by. I have overhead lighting, and I have floor lamps, but I have no nightstand or desk lamp to speak of. As a literature student and an avid reader, this is disgraceful. Luckily, I think my problem may have been solved, thanks to this gorgeous piece of work from Target. It seems pretty perfect for me, and I think it just might be perfect for some of you.

Looking to make a subtle yet elegant change in your home or office? Have you been using the same lamp that's been sitting there gathering dust or tarnishing for years? Do you love a great deal? If you answered "yes" to any or all of those questions, then have I got the deal for you: the Polished Steel Desk Lamp from Target. This lamp combines the functionality of a three-way lamp with a dimmer, a sleek art-deco design, and the convenience of a touch lamp all in one sturdy package. Add a touch of class to your desk, end table, or nightstand with this great lamp, and get 4% Cash Back in the process. Plus, with free shipping, you can get this lamp on your table without going out of pocket. 

Better still, if you decide you don't like it, you can simply return it to any local Target location in your neighborhood. Go right over to Target.com and snatch one of these USA-made beauties up before they're all gone!

I'll let you folks in on a little bit of personal information about myself: before I came to be the blogger here at Ebates, I'd spent the prior year and a half working on my Master's degree and doing freelance work out of my home. While most of you probably just think "big deal, he worked and went to school; lots of people do that" and you are correct in that, there are a select few who can see past the stats and realize what that means.

That's right, I spent a year and a half of my adult-ish life as a connoisseur of that beloved commodity we know as sleep. I know myself; I am borderline nocturnal. Given the choice, I will wake up sometime around noon, maybe a little later, and ease through my day until I finally return to my bed sometime usually between three and four in the morning. That was on a good day. If I had the opportunity, I could easily stay in bed twelve, thirteen hours a day. On a really good day, I could even work from bed.  But now that I've joined the working world (while finishing my degree in the evening), sleep is at a premium. The reason I chose this particular weekend idea is that it is what I would love to sleep all the time this weekend, but I have a chapter of my thesis to finish by the end of next week, so I'll be working non-stop much of the weekend. So, instead of just sleeping in using that same old sagging mattress on the threadbare bedding you've been using since I was an undergrad, treat yourself, and Sears is all about trying to help you make that happen this weeked.  Through tomorrow, they have a bedding and housewares sale that will keep you resting easy. All mattresses are 50% off with free national delivery and haul-away of your old mattress, plus, they have a 30 day comfort gaurantee, so if you are in love with your deep pillowy mattress but decide to get one that is firm as a board, you can return it in 30 days free of penalty.

Here are three items that are on sale right now that will help you get a great night's sleep.  First is a four hundred thread count sheet set that's currently on sale, and I tell you, a high thread count like that feels like you're laying on a little piece of heaven. From Land's End, you get brand name you can trust, and a thread count that will make you feel like a king or queen, even if you sleep in a twin bed.

The next is a Serta down comforter that will keep you warm in the soon-to-be-arriving cold months. I personally am always warm, so this has little appeal, but if you want to cozy up with someone, this provides the perfect amount of warmth do to just that. Plus it's half off, and you'll be saving enough to buy all the other products together.

Finally is the Personal Expressions memory foam pillow. I have one of these, and I will say that I never knew I could be so comfortable when I slept. Granted, the pillow I had been using prior to this one was probably about twenty or thirty years old, and I had never had a truly good quality pillow before it. Still, I never knew a pillow could make so much difference. My neck is never stiff anymore, and the custom contours allow for optimum comfort whether you sleep on your back, stomach, or side. Get one today and start sawing logs immediately.

There you have it - now treat yourself to a weekend free of alarm clocks. Or, if you have to set an alarm, give yourself a few reasons to hit that snooze bar just one extra time thanks to your friends here at Ebates.

Picture this: you've just moved into your own place. No roommates, no scary cats, no significant other who doesn't understand the appeal of a clean sink. It's just you and your belongings. After letting out a deep breath, you realize you've left behind your years of partying until five in the morning, chore lists, and finding out your new roommate is a complete psycho who uses all your shampoo; now it's time to take a look around and leave behind to your crappy furniture too. Tell yourself "No more questionable sofas found on the street." or "No more buying dressers from the same store you purchased your Halloween costume." Generally, those aren't vintage, they're crap. It's time to move on.

The first task is to determine what room you want to tackle first. For those of you who frequently entertain, a new sofa is a good way to start. This Komfort sofa from Furniture.com is the perfect hybrid of minimalism and modern. The clean lines and earthy color make this piece simple to build around. Plus Free shipping means more money to spend on future purchases. Interior design is exactly like fashion; find a few great basics, and then build around them. Although I love the deep brown of the sofa, I also love bright colors and bold prints. This is where accessorizing comes into play.

Accents such as candles, window treatments, and pillows can be changed as often as you change your shoes, so have fun and experiment. Remember, the investment is in the furniture, not the accents. Keep the pillows and throws cheap. This Frida pillow from Urban Outiftters adds a splash of bold color, and at $32, it won't break the bank. Toss in a throw blanket, some coffee table books, and your ready to impress others with your elite taste.

Good morning gentle readers! You all know me as your easily amused and occasionally witty blogger, but when I return home at the end of the work day, I have a whole other life. Don't worry, this isn't some great secret confession or anything like that; rather, when I return home, I pick up my life as a graduate student. Knocking on wood, I should have my Master's in Literature before the end of 2008, so when I go home, I return home to a floor littered with books, notes, articles, and note cards. These are kind of a badge of honor, but they are also an eyesore. Worse, stepping on books is sacrilegious, and I hate scrounging for a piece of paper I've inadvertently kicked under the couch.   

So it was with this unique problem that I decided I'd had enough, and that it was time to find a nice bookshelf that would help me clean up my life  a little bit. What I found was the Delano Large Bookcase. I like the look: it's black, made of sturdy pine, and has those classy-looking cross braces rather than solid planks on the sides. Most importantly for my needs, it has a pull-out drawer in place of the bottom shelf, so all of my note cards and loose leaf sheets of paper are stored securely. Plus, I will say that since this is an Ebates blog, and it focuses on deals, that you can't forget Target's great savings of 15% off any time you purchase anything over $125. On a $200 item like this one, you save $30, which is actually a better bargain than paying full price and getting free shipping. So if, like me, you once had to keep your books in boxes, or have them stacked up all over the place, this is just the thing for you. Or, if you just want to upgrade an old book shelf or finally throw out those shelves you made out of cinder blocks and boards, now is the perfect time to do just that.

We're going to start today's blog with a little visualization exercise:

Imagine you're coming home from work, you've had an awful day. Everything took longer than it should have, nobody got any of their work done, and your boss yelled at you for problems that aren't even associated with your job description. If you take the bus, there was a blackout in the transportation system, so the buses stopped running for two hours at the peak of the commute hour, and you ended up shelling out way too much for a cab ride home. If you drive, your car broke down and you got to drive home in a tow truck. Ladies, your heel broke so you're all wobbly. Gents, your zipper got stuck and you had to spend the whole day trying to cover up the fact that your fly was down. You get home to realize that the rest of your family, roommates, or pets have decided to go out to eat, so you have to fend for yourself for dinner after this awful day. The cable is out. The hot water is broken so you can't even take a nice warm bath to soothe your nerves, and that aromatherapy kit just isn't getting it done any more.

What is the one thing that could make this day okay? What is the one last little bastion of comfort and happiness in this otherwise awful day? That's right, gentle readers: the welcoming comfort of your favorite arm chair. I can speak from experience that a comfortable chair can make all the difference on my world view. I'm not talking about your everyday recliner or barcalounger, not that there's anything wrong with any of those chairs. But still, I'm talking about one of those chairs that just seems to welcome you with open arms whenever you see it. A chair that rather than falling into it, you ease yourself into its comfort.  I'm talking about a chair like the Havana Chair from Bellacor.

Just look at it: doesn't it look inviting? Doesn't it look like the kind of chair that is just asking to be sat in? I know that when I so much as look at this chair, my bum feels just a little warmer. If you're not convinced, let me fill you in on a little bit of what makes this chair so exceptional. First and foremost, this chair is made of natural leather stretched over a hardwood frame. It doesn't take a particularly distinguishing person to tell the difference between natural and artificial leather, and you will really appreciate the difference when you sink into this chair. Another aspect of this chair  that I personally like is that it features hand-tied construction, which means no metal rivets. I realize that some people prefer the more classic riveted look, but those same people are always the folks who end up buying a new chair when the rivets start to come loose and fall off. Finally, the chair's cushion is removable. This may sound trivial to many of you, but when you lose something out of your pocket down there, or if you ever need to replace the cushion despite the fact that the chair itself is still in great condition, you'll really appreciate the ease of removal.

Yes, I'll admit, the chair is expensive, but with 13% off the list price, free shipping, and 6% cash back from Ebates, you do end up getting a good deal for an amazing chair that will make you happy to come home for years to come.

If you folks are like me, space in your garage is at a premium. I've got boxes of books, a bike, musical gear, assorted tools,  auto parts, and all sorts of bits and pieces of things tucked away into every last corner of my garage. Seeing how I nearly tripped over a misplaced box of junk while exiting my car the other day, I've decided to wage a war on clutter, and I hope to  pass along some of my great discoveries to you, dear readers. 

Number one of my wish list, if I could better utilize it, would be the RacorPro HeavyLift.

Personally speaking, I don't have a lot in the way of vertical clearance in my garage, so this would just be another low-hanging object for me to brain myself on; but if you have a ceiling that is more than about seven feet in your garage, this could be the greatest thing to ever happen to you.  As you can see by the picture, it is simply a four foot by four foot platform on a system of pulleys that allows you to load it at ground level and, by turning a crank, raise it up to the ceiling, creating a lot more floor space in an already-cluttered garage.  In product reviews that I've seen there have been questions about the 250 lb. weight capacity and the quality of the gears used, but most people seem happy overall with their purchase.

The next item that caught my eye was the Master Magnetics 24" Magnetic Tool Holder. 

It's just as simple as it appears in the picture: you mount it to the wall, and it magnetically holds anything metal.  Keeping tools lying around is a nightmare, hanging them on hooks means they will fall off if not put just right, and making your own custom racks for all of your tools is just a hassle. You've probably seen (or might even have) magnetic knife strips in kitchens, so why not put the same idea to use in your garage? But don't worry about tools slipping off: these strips have a whopping 20lbs of pull per inch!

Finally, if you're anything like me, what you call a "work bench" is more like a "clutter table". I don't know how it happens, but I end up with more stuff scattered all over the work bench than I do anywhere else in my house.  With the fact that I can never see the surface of my work bench in mind, I give you the solution: the Gladiator Fold-Away Workstation.
This wall-mountable work station has a fold-down work space that is perfect for lighter repairs. Made from easy-to-clean stainless steel, the surface measures 39"x14", and folds up into the unit when not in use.  The rest of the unit includes a shelf for added storage, in addition to the storage provided on top of the organizer itself.  Also, with the provided power-cord access hole, this unit can comfortably house a radio, a lamp, or any tool that needs charging.

All of these storage solutions and a lot more are available at Hechinger.com. Shop with your Ebates account and get 4% automatically on any purchase.

After a discussion with some co-workers over lunch today about the comparative populations of India and of San Francisco, I returned to my computer thinking about the lack of open spaces in the town I call home.

With all of that in mind, I would recommend you take a little time out of your weekend and get in touch a little more with your green thumb. If you have a garden, or at least some planter boxes, go take care of them a little. Science has shown that talking to and playing music for your plants helps them flourish, so if you're protected enough from your neighbors that they won't think you've gone off the deep end, go chat it up with your flowering little friends.

Whether you have a huge back yard or just a small patch of grass to work with, see if you can find some seeds or a plant to make your world a little more beautiful, and a little more oxygenated.  Begin the city slicker that I am, I have no idea about planting times and all that, so I can't say to run out and plant some seeds this weekend, since I can't rightly say that this is the time to plant. However, I am an avid on-line shopper, so I can tell you with all certainty where some of the best places are to get supplies, seeds, plants, and bulbs for all your gardening needs. When it comes to picking out plants, I find that there is a lot more available than can be found in the garden section of Home Depot. (even though that is a great place to start) Three of our Ebates merchants specialize in all things sprouting. There is Park Seed who has not only a vast array of seeds and bulbs, but also sells seed starting kits which are ideal if your climate is rough on young seedlings. Another merchant is Gurney's Seed & Nursery, who offer everything you could dream of: flowers, bulbs, seeds, potted plants, even trees! Finally, there is also BloomingBulb. Not to be confused with Bloomingdale's, this store is focused primarily on plants, though they do have some lovely garden supplies like bird feeders and butterfly houses.

Finally, having a love for all things kitsch, I am a firm believer that no garden is complete without a whimsical garden gnome. Granted, I don't think a bedroom or a cubicle is complete without a gnome either, but that's more my own personal hangup. Still, I know that there are some great gnomes out there looking for homes, so I thought I could send you in their direction. For a full-sized gnome, the twenty-one inch tall Rumple is one of your best bets. He is a European-styled gnome, and brings a classic no-nonsense touch of class to any home or garden. If you don't have space for a full-sized gnome, Home Depot offers a smaller digging gnome. At thirteen inches, he is a better fit in a smaller garden or planter box, or if your desktop looks anything like mine. At under ten dollars, this guy is hard to pass up. However, if you need to go smaller still, and feel that a gnome's place really is among nature, there is the Gnome and Garden kit, which allows you place a miniature gnome on a grassy patch with your choice of backgrounds.

At this point, I'm sure you're asking "What is this guy's problem? Why gnomes?" I wish I had a concrete answer. However, for those of you who feel that these little guys and their pointy hats have no place in civilized society, I have the solution: Mini Gnome-Be-Gones. Less expensive and less space consuming than their full-sized counterparts, these little guys make a silent statement that gnomes have no place around you or your garden.

Either way, gnome or no gnome, take some time and enjoy nature before the Fall hits and we're all stuck indoors, looking through sheets of rain or piles of snow at our gardens.

Looking for some great deals on furniture, bedding and home decor? Ebates has the ticket to modern home furnishings at great prices.

Shop west elm for contemporary, yet affordable home furnishings designed for modern living. For a limited time, save up to 50% off select items from furniture and wall decor to lighting and bath accessories! Over 200 items on sale now. Plus, get 2% Cash Back from Ebates.

If you are still sleeping on 100 thread count sheets, this is your chance to upgrade to a luxury sheet set and sleep like you've never slept before. Save up to 40% on the Chris Madden 1000 thread-count sheet set at JCPenney. The set includes 100% combed cotton sateen fitted sheets with all-around elastic for a secure fit and two 21" wide pillowcases. Plus for a limited time, get free shipping on your of $99 or more. Just enter coupon code DORMLIFE at checkout. Don't forget! You also get 4% Cash Back from Ebates!

$20 off plus a $10 coupon? This is one deal that can't be beat! The Weber Blue One Touch Gold BBQ is hands-down the most popular grill at Cooking.com. One hundred percent  of reviewers would recommend it to a friend! Backyard chefs love the One-Touch cleaning system. Simply move a single lever to sift ashes into the removable catch pan- it's completely mess-free! The Weber Blue features crackproof all-weather wheels, so you have the freedom of grilling on the patio, in the garden, on the lawn- wherever the party takes you! Use coupon code C88966 to save $15 on your order!

Inspired by the New England coast, the Shutters Dresser at JCPenney features simple, clean lines that compliment a range of decor, whether you prefer completely classic or mid-century modern. This dresser would be a stunning addition to any bedroom, but could also serve as a beautiful accent piece in your living room or study. Finished in a rich cherry hue, this versatile piece has been reduced 63% to only $379.99. This is truly an unbeatable deal for such a durable, attractive dresser.

Don't let its soft, squishy appearance fool you. Unlike the lumpy bean bag you had in your college dorm, the Memory Foam Lounge Bag will be the seat your whole family scrambles for on movie night! Toss the extra large version in your living room and seat several kids and adults, use the medium version as seating for two, or keep the small version next to the couch so your littlest family member has their very own chair. Because they allow you to recline easily or sit up completely straight, Memory Foam Lounge Bags are great for those who need extra back support. Get yours today and choose from up to seven colors!

 

Do you ever fantasize about covering your roof in solar panels and leaving your electricity bill in the dust? If you dream in green, the Solar Hurricane Lamp will put you right on track! Get yours at Home Decorators Collection Outlet for only $19.99. Regularly, $44, this handy lamp will make a rustic statement on your patio table, or even placed decoratively in the garden. Featuring twelve super-bright white LEDs, this lamp will provide eight to ten hours of illumination when fully charged- no batteries needed!

Why choose stainless steel cookware? It's one of the most hygienic surfaces for food preparation, is extremely easy to clean, and and has a life expectancy of over one hundred years! Plus, the trace amounts of chromium and iron in stainless steel have incredible health benefits.Treat your family to clean, nutrient-enriched meals with the Laurel Creek Professional Cookware Set. For $109.99 you'll get six pieces that will last a lifetime! Oh, and these sturdy pans don't sacrifice style. The sleek mirrored surfaces match any decor- they're favored by chefs in the most trendy European restaurants!

As any good gardener knows, one frosty night can put an end to even the hardiest of garden crops. Protect plants like lettuce, broccoli, basil, spinach and strawberries with The Ultimate Cold Frame- a sturdy, polyethylene enclosure that provides an extra 26 inches of growing space for your garden! Recently reduced to only $44.99, this frame will extend your growing season by up to several months. You'll enjoy salad greens almost year-round and ripe, juicy tomatoes for Thanksgiving!

Eight glasses of water per day? Are you crazy? For some us, plain old water is, well, a little bit boring. Perk up your palate with new PUR Flavor Options! Starting at just $9.99 for a flavor cartridge, the PUR water filtration system mounts on your faucet and not only eliminates lead and chemicals, but infuses your water with calorie-free, sugarless fruit flavors like raspberry, peach and strawberry Get your faucet-mounted PUR filtration from Drugstore ($49.46, 4% Cash Back) or J&R.com ($44.99, 3% Cash Back).

Did you know you can save hundreds of dollars on energy costs by simply switching to energy-efficient appliances? Home Depot makes it easy to go green and save green with Eco Options- a selection of ENERGY STAR rated appliances, lighting, decor and more. Check out these incredible, eco-friendly offers-  this sleek, ENERGY STAR rated Hampton Bay light fixture was just reduced by 60%- now $47.60! You won't believe how your energy costs will drop. Don't miss out on this GE King-Size Capacity washer- only $599! Switching to energy-efficient appliances is the easiest way to cut costs and make a real impact on the environment.

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We definitely need to purchase some baby gates. We not only have stairs, but also a Bulldog that is very nosey. Is there a particular brand that is better or easier to go from room-to-room with? Is plastic or wood better?

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Anna: I've heard that the pressure gates aren’t as safe as the ones you actually drill into the walls. 

Bryan: I don’t like the wood ones I think the plastic ones that screws into the wall and pressure fit into the opening are great they usually come with a swing arm so you don’t have to completely remove the gate (or try to jump over) to get through.

No matter what kind you prefer, there are hundreds of great deals on baby gates through Ebates. This Evenflo Safety Gate is just $79.99 at J.C. Penney. It mounts to the wall and swings open (so you won't have to attempt any gymnastics to pass over it). You can find pressure mounted plastic gates starting at only $12.56.

Readers, what kind of baby gates have you found to be the safest and most convenient for your children (or even pets)?

 

In case you haven't heard, we're officially living in the age of The Jetsons . Though you can't yet hop on a hovercraft on your way to Mooningdale's (Judy Jetson's favorite store) you can buy a robot who cleans your house!

iRobot is a company that manufactures Cleaning Robots: Roomba, Scooba and Dirt Dog. Some vacuum, others mop, and one of them even sucks up nuts and bolts! The iRobot website, is, of course, full of rave reviews, and they even have videos showing just how effectively their robots can clean.  I haven't tried iRobot, but I'm definitely curious. Ebates staffer Ayse had this to say about hers:

The Roomba was purchased more out of curiosity than need... My husband thought it would be a great way to clean the house while having a little fun watching our cat Smokey's  reaction to it....It seems like this machine would be suitable for houses with just hardwood floors, or wall-to-wall carpets...The time I really appreciate it is when we want the sweep the dust bunnies from under low furniture or beds.

The Roomba seems great for picking up hard-to-reach pet hair, and fortunately, iRobot makes a Roomba for pets. There are few things more disgusting than seeing pet hair "tumbleweeds" blowing through your kitchen.

Have you used Roomba, Scooba or Dirt Dog? What did you think?

Though you may be sick of getting badgered with New Year's tips for self-improvement, I'm going to give you one more: organization. Isn't it nice to come home to a nice, clean house or apartment? Today Ebates is doubling Cash Back at The Home Depot to 6%, so you can save more on organization systems! Could that have sounded any less inspiring? Probably, but just imagine how peaceful your home will feel with your odds and ends neatly filed into a ShelfTrack Organizer! Or perhaps a 4-Drawer ShelfTrack Kit? Seriously, though, as a pack rat, I am a firm believer that keeping your home well-organized will lead to less stress.

Other avenues of self-development through shopping at Home Depot include:

 
• 10 Crescent Lane. Resolve to refine your taste through this collection of luxe home decor, including bedding and barware!
 
• Eco Options. Be good to Mother Earth and she will be good to you. Buy Home Depot products tagged with the Eco Options logo and stay green.
 
• Gardening. Why not choose 2007 as the year to grow a green thumb? (Not literally...that would be called Gangrene.) Home Depot sells a variety of plants from Amaryllis to...some other kind of plant that starts with "z"!

I hope everyone had a wonderful Christmas (if applicable to you, of course)!  I was happy to find some Ebates shoppers at my parents' holiday party. Tom, if you're reading this, you might be interested in today's Double Cash Back merchant!

Ebates is giving 4% Cash Back at Kohls, today only. Even better? Kohls is having an After Christmas Sale and Clearance! If you shop before 4PM (EST), the markdowns are even greater.

What better cure for a Tryptophan hangover than a healthy bout of shopping? I know some of you hardcore shoppers are at the malls right now, picking your way through piles of woulda-been gifts that never quite made it under the tree, but consider this: shopping online means you can cozy up on the couch with some coffee and holiday leftovers while still raking in the deals.

Speaking of coffee, Kohls has...oh, six varieties of coffeepots on clearance. To be honest, I've never shopped at Kohls before, but I'm impressed with their prices on toys and household items. Their clearance includes...

*50% off LeapFrog Toys
*70% off select luggage
*60-70% off select boots
*70% off winter sweaters

Today's Double Cash Back merchant just may be the answer to your last minute gift giving quandaries. Ebates is giving 20% Cash Back at ProFlowers.com! Who wouldn't love a lush bouquet of petite roses delivered to their doorstep in time for Christmas?

You'll notice that ProFlowers guarantees Christmas delivery, but I must give you a word of warning: when you are ready to buy your flowers, a drop down menu will appear from which you can select a delivery date. Christmas is no longer available, and ProFlowers will direct you to their partner site, FloristExpress.com. You will not earn Cash Back if you choose this option. It's not that we don't love FloristExpress.com. They're probably very floral and very express, but unfortunately they are not on Ebates.

You can have flowers delivered by Saturday the 23rd and earn your 20% Cash Back- just think of it as Christmas Eve Eve delivery.

      

True, it's been years since I've carved a pumpkin, but when did pumpkin carving kits become so sophisticated? Isn't there a kind of stoic elegance in the 'three triangles and a mouth' model I specialized in as a child?

If you've been looking to add an air of royalty to your jack-o-lantern's visage, check out the Disney Princess Carving Kit. The lowest price can be found at eToys.com and KBToys.com, who both sell it for $10.99 with 3% Cash Back at Ebates. There's also a Pirates of the Caribbean  Carving Kit. Come on, who wouldn't want Johnny Depp's face glowing on their front porch during the chilly autumn nights? Anyone?

For advanced pumpkin carvers, the Dremel Pumpkin Carving Kit is available at Hechinger.com or Home Depot for $19.99. If, to you, 3-D pumpkin carving is akin to sculpting the next Sphinx, try the basic carving kit from Spirit. At $5.99 with 7% Cash Back from Ebates, you really can't go wrong.

Finally, because I find this hilarious, here is a pattern from which you can carve a jack-o-lantern resembling Bob Marley:

Looks like you've got some decisions to make before October 31st. Princess Jasmine? Three triangles and a mouth? A three dimensional representation of the Mona Lisa?

Thanks to fabulousfoods.com for the Bob Marley image!

Want to get Cash Back when you buy pumpking carving supplies? Join Ebates now!

 

One of the most important elements of college life is your dorm.  I can still remember my triple room at Cal: long evenings studying together, bonding over a glass of wine...wanting to rip my hair out because the boorish twits left a week-old turkey sandwich to rot on top of the microwave!!! Dorm life certainly has its charms, doesn't it?

Most universities keep the dorms pared down to a minimum- sizewise and stylewise. Some even have cinderblock walls! Fortunately, there's lots of ways to turn your otherwise austere abode into a cozy retreat:

Cool Bedding: Dorm size bedding has never looked better! Target and Delia*s both offer  stylish, modern designs that will warm up your space and make it feel like home. Whether you like pop-art apples, dramatic Victorian patterns or bold solid color, they've got you covered.

Mood Lighting: If  you want your room to look a poorly-wired 7-Eleven, then by all means,  keep the flourescent lights so generously provided by the dorm. If,  however, you want a warmer, cozier glow, get some lamps! They'll change the whole mood of the room, and you won't have to resort to the often overused Christmas light scheme.

A Cool Computer: For the budget-conscious student, the Compaq Presario v2000Z (as discussed yesterday) is a steal! For the Mac users, try a Mac Mini plus your own monitor. Target has a nice looking dorm bundle:  a set of wireless accessories including a keyboard, mouse and  router...this is handy since trying to snake a bunch of wires through a  room that's smaller than a naturist's armoire will be a little bit  tricky.

Coffee (and food) : Two words for you: FRENCH PRESS.  Don't drink the stuff in the cafeteria. As one of our Ebates staff  said, "you could make better coffee by squeezing the grounds in your  fist and pouring water through your fingers". A french press is an  easy, no-stove-required way to make gourmet coffee any barista would be  proud of. Just pour in your fresh ground beans, mix with hot water and  the press takes care of the rest! Imagine how impressed your study  groups will be when you practically have a Starbucks a mere 3 feet from  your bed! Trust me, you'll need a strong cup for those lectures on  diasporic transnational migration.Oh, and you might want to pick up a  microwave and mini-fridge too. You know, so you'll have something to  eat with the coffee.

Going back to your recent merchant recommendations, I know iTunes and Bloomingdale's were suggested by a couple readers- we do in fact have both of those  merchants. Bloomingdale's was just added last week and iTunes has been  here for a while, which is great news for us iPod junkies!

Stores  such as Pottery Barn, Crate and Barrel, Victoria's Secret,  Anthropologie, Pier1 and Bath and Body Works unfortunately do not have  an affiliate marketing program, so we can't offer Cash Back for these stores. Zappos.com does have such a program, and we'd love to work with them, but for now, they choose not to go through Ebates.

Our  goal, of course, is to always have as many popular stores on our site  as possible. In fact, I'll let you in on a little secret: In the very  near future, Ebates is adding two new stores: a popular hotel merchant  and a leading apparel store.

(Hint: Where'd ya get them jeans?)

Our team is always trying to add new stores that you love. And we've got some great ones! Looking for:

 
• POTTERY BARN or CRATE AND BARREL ? Try Restoration Hardware.  If the look you want is sleek, espresso-stained tables or luxe bedding,  Restoration Hardware's got it. It's in a similar price range and even  has some more retro-style items like their popular Walton Lane  collection. Plus if you're a Six Feet Under fan *cough* you'll remember  the time that Keith was talking up Restoration Hardware to the social  worker in Season 5- but I digress. Moving on!

• PIER1? Try Bombay Company or the Global Bazaar at Target.  If you're in the market for affordable furniture with a worldly flavor,  the Global Bazaar is the place to be! You can get pretty darn specific  with what style you're into: India Traditional, Asia Modern, European,  the list goes on!

• VICTORIA'S SECRET? Try Frederick's of Hollywood or figleaves.  figleaves features many designers, ranging from Bali to LaPerla, so  you're sure to find something that suits your budget for the budoir.  Plus their site is so easy to navigate- it'll make shopping a breeze.

• ANTHROPOLOGIE? Try Urban Outfitters, Bluefly, CoutureCandy or SmartBargains. The secret here is that the bread and butter of the  Anthropologie collection primarily consists of three brands (among a  few others): Free People, Rebecca Beeson and Ella Moss. Free People is  Anthropologie's wholesale line that you can find easily at Urban  Outfitters and SmartBargains. Rebecca and Ella can be found at  CoutureCandy and BlueFly. You'll likely find several pieces that are  being sold at Anthopologie or that have the 'Anthro' look.

• BATH AND BODY WORKS? Try The Body Shop, ShopNBC or CosmeticMall.  As a former devotee of Bath and Body Works, I can understand why you'd  be wont to use their familiar lines and scents, but that's just because  you haven't tried Jaqua. Trust me, with body whip in scents like  Buttercream Frosting and Mint Chocolate, you won't be longing for your  old Vanilla Bean moisturizer. It's that good. You can find the Jaqua line at CosmeticMall or ShopNBC. (Really! I know the NBC part sounds weird- but they've got it!)

Thanks to everyone who responded to last  Wednesday's blog with their new Ebates store recommendations- you all  made awesome suggestions! This blog is the way for YOU to voice your  opinions about Ebates, make suggestions and dish on your favorite  strategies for getting your money's worth!

I've  included several of your suggestions below, but left out those that  echo each other too closely; Who knew you were such a Zappos, Pottery  Barn and J.Crew lovin' bunch?

Come back soon to see what stores on Ebates offer similar merchandise!

Brianne.M: J.Crew!  J.Crew! J.CREW!  Because I buy a lot of suits, and suit pants from other stores never fit me right!  I know you can do it!

rjpersonal: Ebates working with IKEA would be the best! Sooner the better, I say!
rbragg: L.L. BEAN would be great to have on ebates

IanSunrise:I would love it if ZAPPOS were a part of Ebates as well as SHOEBUY.COM! love those shoe stores!

Amanda K.: I would love to see POTTERY BARN --  they participate in UPromise,so there's no good reason that they  shouldn't play nice with eBates! :) Y'all have done a FANTASTIC job of  bringing great stores online -- I almost cried when you added AnnTaylor.com and AnnTaylorLoft.com! :) Other wish list entries? CRATEANDBARREL.com; TIMELESSINVITATIONS.com; PIER1.com; itunes.com... reply: Thanks for your comment, Amanda! We in fact do have iTunes Music Store on Ebates! Great suggestions!-Rebecca

jat252: AMAZON.com, because it has such a great selection of merchandise!

madpotter: You MUST include BATH & BODY WORKS in your list of merchants! Their fragrances and other products are the  only ones I buy. They are exceptional, as I am sure other Ebates  members will agree with. I make many purchases at Bath & Body Works  online, and would definitely go through Ebates if I could. Please add them soon. Thank you. Judy

Stevie: I would love to see ANTHROPOLOGIE, CB2, JCREW, and COACH.  I know that Coach is a long shot, but it would compel me to spend even  more money than I already do at these stores. I love EBATES!

Kyndlewood: I would love to see HARRY AND DAVID (www.harryanddavid.com) I enjoy sending goodies to frineds and family  for occasions. What better way to make people happy then YUMMIE snacks  and treats!

lisou21: Banana Republic was on my wish list for a long time, and it's here! Thanks for adding it! What about Bloomies? It's wedding season and my friends and I always spend a fortune there buying dresses. Reply: Lucky for you, Bloomingdale's was just added! Have fun!-Rebecca

DelawareBelle: I think you should add VICTORIA'S SECRET to your line-up. I know several people that shop on their online store  and I believe that buyers would purchase more merchandise if they were  able to access the store through Ebates!

Note: Some names have been modified for your privacy!

Independence Day. It’s a day when we, as Americans, can appreciate all our forefathers gave in the name of freedom and liberty. A day when we can hold our heads high, and take pride in what our nation stands for.

Let’s be honest- it’s also a day when we barbeque, shoot bottlerockets and drink pitchers of Sangria!

If you’re in the midst of planning a July 4th party like I am, don’t break the bank on planning the perfect Stars and Stripes bash. Granted, it’s already the 29th, but if you start ordering your party supplies now, you’ll be all ready for Tuesday afternoon!    Now,  some of us have already sent out the invitations, made the phone calls, but did  you first take a look at your grill? Maybe it’s a little rusty, or just plain old. Think of how impressed your pals will be if you have a shiny new grill on  which to roast those yummy, dripping ribs! Head on over to Ebates and then to  Kitchenetc.com for a great collection of grills and grill accessories in all  shapes and sizes- buy one that’s over $69 and it’s shipped for free!    

How about Target.com? Good ol'  Target has totally revamped its image in the past few years. It's become a downright classy joint, but their prices are still fair! Right now they're doing Free Shipping on over 10,000 items in the store! Here, you should buy BIG-  we all know it's the big things that add up fast in shipping charges. They've got free shipping on some great-looking barstools that would be perfect out on the patio or even for an indoor Independence Day soiree. Ebates will hook you up with 4% Cash Back on your Target purchases, which should make you feel a little more festive!   

If you want your barbecue to be really swank, why not Hail a Cab? Not the checkered kind! MyWinesDirect.com is doing Free Shipping on these great collections of wine- you get six bottles at a time (which, if your friends are like mine, you’ll finish long before the burgers have browned!). My favorite is the collection of Cabernet Sauvignons that’ll pair deliciously with ribs, chicken, steaks- really, any kind of meat you’ve tossed on the grill! And guess what? Ebates is giving 12% Cash Back! That’s certainly a reason to raise your glass.