The Gift of Love and Warmth

Valentine's Day is not only for lovers...it's for friends, children, and best girlfriends who make your life a little brighter! But what do you send the college student, long distance bff, or girlfriend across the miles? Here's a really unique alternative to the traditional Valentine's Day chocolate and roses that just doesn't fit this demographic...it's the PajamaGram

And it's just not for the ladies. Send the gift of warmth to your favorite couple with a matching set of jammies or your little nieces and nephews from the infant/toddler collection. And of course, my favorite...the doggie section!

So many choices! Be sure to check out their sale section for great prices on spa gifts, candles, and accessories to top off your gift...don't forget the rule of giving in 3's! Happy Giving!

Another Year Wiser: A Birthday Re-cap

Although being the Gift Therapist is the best job on the planet, receiving gifts is and always has been very tough for me. Yesterday I celebrated my 38th birthday and I can't begin to quantify the generosity of all of my family, friends and colleagues. Yes indeed, it was a very humbling experience! I can't imagine the stress they were all under. I mean, having to give a gift to the Gift Therapist could be a very daunting task, I imagine :) But everyone nailed it this year and I received some really awesome presents. Here are some of the gifts that I received and why they were so awesome....

• "The Last Lecture" by Randy Pausch: The most inspiring lecture that I've ever heard. I must have watched it at least ten times. Now I have the hard copy!
• "The Snuggie": I've been joking about it for months and now I have one! Because I am always cold, this was the perfect gift for me!
• A $50 pre-paid Visa: I'm a big fan of receiving gift cards...now I can go buy that awesome new wool coat that I've been eyeing up for months now...an now it's on sale!
• A romantic dinner with my husband: Fine dining is one of my favorite hobbies, especially with people that I love! Dinner at my favorite restaurant is always a home run!
• Emails and e-cards from my long distance friends: It's always humbling for me to receive kind wishes across the miles from folks who actually remembered it was my birthday. It really is the thought that counts!

A sincere "THANK YOU" to everyone who has hung in there with me and shared in my birthday joy! I appreciate your support, kindness and friendship more than you'll ever know!

God Bless and Happy Giving!

Made in Pittsburgh Gear for the Ultimate Steeler Fan

While watching the news this evening one of the personalities reported that the AFC Championship Game brought over 20 million dollars into the local Pittsburgh economy. The influx into the economy was attributed primarily from hotels, restaurants, and specialty merchants who sold (and continue to sell) Steeler's gear. In keeping with Super Bowl fever, I would like to introduce you to a very cool and environmentally friendly company that produces purses, belts and accessories from recycled license plates...RIGHT HERE IN THE 'BURGH! Little Earth has a wide selection of licensed products including must haves for the NFL, NHL, or Obama fan! The "Yes We Can" handbags are pretty cool...but back to the Steelers! Here is a look at three of my favorites, from highest to lowest:

The Splurge: $299


Steelers FenderFlair Purse


The FenderFlair is the ultimate way to fashionably show your team pride. Two full size Pittsburgh Steelers license plates form the sides of this attention grabbing purse. This bag is velvet lined with a pocket for your cell phone or makeup. Each FenderFlair is hand-embellished with hundreds of Swarovski Crystals.

The Conservative Choice: $29.99

Steelers Quarterback Tote - Polamalu

Steelers Quarterback Tote - Polamalu For those who have it all and want to carry it around with them, the Troy Palamalu Quarterback Tote is in the starting lineup. This roomy tote is great for a day at the beach, a weekend shopping trip, and more! Features: Authentic Team Jersey Material Magnetic Closure Interior Pocket Adjustable Strap 15" x 14" x 4"

And for Guy on Your List, The Steelers Bottle Cap Belt $39.95

Steelers Bottle Cap Belt - X-Large



Take you time, shop around, and find a great gift for the Steeler's Fan on your list! Good luck and Happy Giving! GO STEELERS!!!

What's on Sale This Week?

Need a new computer, diswasher, stereo or any other large home appliance? Don't drive store to store or spend hours surfing the net! The following FANTASTIC website does it all for you. At http://www.salescircular.com/ you can search and compare bargains just by clicking on your state. Best Buy, CompUSA, Kmart, Office Depot, Office Max, Radio Shack, Sears, Staples, Target, Wal-Mart and select local retailers are all part of this search engine making comparison shopping an absolute snap! Be sure to bookmark the site...it's a keeper!

Planning on larger purchase sometime in the near future? Visit my webpage and find the best bargains by the month, the best times to buy larger items, and snagging a great sale during a holiday that you had no idea existed! Good Luck and Happy Giving!

A Saturday Shopping Spree

Today my husband and I took off on an impromptu shopping spree to look for a new comfy chair for our living room. Somehow we got sidetracked and wound up in Barnes and Noble (one of my favorite stores) and spent a relaxing afternoon browsing the bargain books and new releases. One of my favorite corners in the store is where they display all the really cool office accessories, journals and office supplies...I know, I'm a huge office supply geek! The first thing that caught my eye, and quickly realized that I must have was this awesome jumbo lap desk. The one I use right now is from 8th grade, was a gift from my Godmother and is literally falling apart! I really should post a pic for comparison purposes one day...but, anyway...here is one of my newest favorite finds. For only $16.95 (or cheaper if you are a club member) you can run away with this beauty for yourself or the perpetrual student on your list. Isn't it fabulous??? Get more infomation, specs and many other color choices by visiting this link Blue and Brown Jumbo Lap Desk

Happy Giving!

A Unique Gift for Baby...or New Mommy

Snazzy Bear Diaper Holder


While doing my research for the best gifts of 2009, I stumbled upon a gift that was just too cute and unique to pass up. The Snazzy Bear Diaper Holder from Femail Creations just melted my heart and had me squealing "HOW CUTE!!!" If you have a baby shower on your list of events this year, you may want to scoop one of these up right now! I have a hunch this will be the one gift that gets passed around the room for a closer look! At only $24.50 it is a steal!

Happy Giving!

Just Be the Change

All politics aside...today is the beginning of a new era. Our new President has begun a passionate quest to inspire peace, unity, and justice among us all...here in the US and throughout the entire world. Today I accept President Obama's invitation to join his campaign and continue to work "hands on" to make my community, and our world, a much better place.

Today I found the perfect t-shirt that illustrates and inspires active involvement in the change process. Made right here in the USA, Just Be apparel is a state of mind, not meant to inspire, but to "just be." Designs reflect who we are or how we would like to be. Anyone can make a difference in this world if you believe in yourself. This special Be the Change tee is 4.4 oz. combed, ring-spun semi-sheer 100% cotton champagne-colored tee. Available in both men's and women's sizes at http://www.jb-justbe.com/ for only $18 each.

I pray that one day that "be the change" will be more than just a state of mind...it will become an integral and natural part of all human existence. Thank you Michelle Pratt Lienhart for such a beautiful design!

Happy Giving and God Bless America!

The One Dollar Challenge

Change is in the air for 2009! New year, new President, and new hope for individuals who wish to "do something" and contribute toward something bigger and more meaningful this year. So in the spirt of change, I issue you this challenge...

If you had ONE extra dollar to spare, what would you do with it to make this world a better place? You heard me...ONE DOLLAR. How would you stretch a buck to make a difference in your community? Who would you help and why? Think carefully and post your responses below. Video responses are welcome!

Prize: Good Karma and a feature blog post here on the Bargain Zone

Win the Gift of Pittsburgh Rock!

Not only is Pittsburgh Steeler's country, but the 'Burgh is also home to some of the best original music in the country. The Clarks have been rocking since 1988 and their four piece line-up has remained unchanged for over 20 years. Great guys, awesome music, and great merchandise to prove it! This month I have the honor of giving away a fabulous collection from the Clarks created exclusively for the Gift Therapist website. Sign up at www.thegifttherapist.com/giveaways.html and enter for your chance to win the ultimate “Still Live” CD and DVD gift set, an official Clark’s tshirt and autographed poster. I hope you love them as much as I do and you too will become an instant fan! Music from the Clarks has been featured nationally in movies, television, and Late Night with David Letterman. Enter to win and find out what all us Pittsburgh folks have been buzzing about since 1988! A value of over $50, find out more about these fine fellows and if they'll be visiting a town near you in 2009! www.clarksonline.com.

Thanks guys for the fabulous gift set and as always, may the force be with you :)

Super Savvy Valentine Savings

Searching for the perfect Valentine's Day gift? Why not take advantage of the multitude of post-holiday sales on mega-clearance right now? Look for warm jammies, ultra soft robes, and gourmet chocolates from the clearance rack and re-wrap in new papers...on clearance, of course! There are plenty of metallic papers and ribbons in silver, gold, and red hiding in the clearance isle hat would be perfect for your valentine wrappings this year.

Other fantastic bargains that make fabulous gifts for the girls or BFF's on your list include dazzling evening bags, jeweled broaches, and fabulous silk scarves now more than 50% their original price. At these prices you can create an awesome theme, give in three's and wow the recipient for under $25! Be sure to check out the discount department stores first for the best deals and budget friendly options!

Want to set a romantic mood that will last for many years to come? Check out Image Glow Candles and their Valentine's Day collection. These lantern type candles are lovely and can be used time after time without melting away. Insert a small tea light or battery operated mini candle, and you have a safe and sentimental gift to send across the miles or keep for yourself to show off at your next dinner party. A set of three makes a lovely and memorable centerpiece.

And don't forget the charm of homemade gifts for the special folks on your gift list including family, friends, and best buds. Nothing says "I love you" more than a handmade valentine complete with glitter glue, a cut-out of your favorite picture, and a personalized note from the heart! Go have some fun and be sure to enjoy and appreciate all the love and good karma that surrounds you!

The Gift of Good Karma

I'm not a fan of mean girls. For most of my junior high career (many moons ago!) I was bullied, teased and tried so very hard to fit in. If I would dare to post a picture of me back then you would understand why! Those times were very tough, but I had great friends and family to help me through it successfully. Today I sit here at my desk in awe...so many many fabulous friends with very generous hearts. Some old, some new...but tons of good karma all the way around. One of the best pieces of advice that I ever received was "hang out with people that you want to be like...their success and passion will be contageous." And I try to live each day surrounded primarily by positive influences that keep me grounded, focused, and grateful for being alive and being able to do what I do. Karma is all about reciprocity...what you put out into the world will come back to you ten fold, good or bad. So why not start planting the seeds of generosity and watch those seeds grow...both for your friends, co-workers, family, and the entire world? I promise you will be amazed at the results!

Spread some good karma!

The Practical Gift of Art

Who said art can't be fun, practical and affordable? And now Rachael Ray agrees with me! I'm so happy to share in the excitement of my good friend, inventor, and artist Barbara who will have her beverage CADDi featured on the Rachael Ray show in the upcoming weeks as one of Rachael's favorite things! An accessory to your take-out coffee, this product is genius. So genius that it made my "Top 20" list for 2008. I could see hundreds of buzy women toting their overpriced coffee dangling from their fingertips, thanks to this creative, practical and affordable creation. And the best part, you can customize them for your business!

CONGRATULATIONS BARBARA!!! 2009 is your year, baby!!!

Get Glam on a Budget

New year, new you? Great news! Budget beauty tips and tricks are going to be a permanant fixture here at the bargain zone for 2009! Over the years while recovering from my credit card addiction I figured out quite a few ways to still look fab while on a shoestring budget. From my head to my feet, I've got a few secrets to share!

First, let's start with our nails. For years I drug myself to the nail salon for my bi-weekly acrylic fill to a tune of over $75 per month. Sometimes I would add on an eyebrow wax or a pedi, increasing the bill to over $150 per month. After I finally did the math and realized I was charging over $1,800 per year in these services, I decided to cut back. Now I go to the nail salon once every three months for a maintenance mani or pedi and keep my nails filed and polished in between on my own. I know what you are thinking...I can't give myself that same professional look that the salons can provide. As a former acrylic addict, I can justify your concerns...but I found a new product that is absolutely amazing and gives you the look and feel of a professional polish job for a fraction of the price. And the best part...the polish stays clean and unchipped for over a week! (Perhaps longer if you don't pound the keyboard as much as I do!) The product is called Dazzle Dry by VB Cosmetics.




I received the product months ago to review and after using it for over two months now, it's time to put it out there for you to check out! The Quick Dry Nail Polish System contains a dry nail prep solution, base coat, two color lacquers of your choice and the quick dry top coat. For $54.00 at VB Cosmetics, this system will help you stash your cash all year long! Do the math...only three of four pro manicures per year plus $54 for the next best thing to use in between? Fabulous deal!
Fabulous product, fabulous price, and a great value. Gift Therapist APPROVED!

Out with the Old in with the New

I am so sad to see the holiday season has come to an end. I will miss the frequent parties, rich food, and play time with the little ones from my extended family! School has started and I imagine there are a lot of mom's out there trying to get their kids back into a consistent bedtime routine! If you are struggling, I have just the book that can help. The Dreamstarter Book by Jennifer Karin is a fantastic option for bedtime fun and slumber. Unlike traditional fairytales, this unique book provides on paragraph bedtime story "starters" that encourage creativity for an interactive storytelling session with your little one! What happens next is up to you! Currently available on Amazon for only $10.36, you can afford to stock up and share as gifts with family, friends, and neighbors without hesitation. In addition to the Dreamstarter book, you can download the Dreamstarter free game to play during quiet family time or at the dinner table. Lots of free samples are also available at Jennifer's website, so please visit and check them out. I hear a second version is in the works, so stay tuned and get your imagination working with a simple click of the mouse...you children will thank you!

New Year, New Look

and LOTS of fun are ahead for my blog! This year I resolve to create more thoughtful, inspiring and creative posts that will leave you with a laugh, smile, or a new perspective on an old problem. I love being "the Gift Therapist" and plan to spend a great deal of my time to make this blog into an integral part of your weekly dose of inspiration. I encourage you to post your comments, contact me with questions, pose suggestions and the like so we can all enjoy a great idea, a good laugh, or inspiring story together. Cheers to all of you! And I look forward to hearing from all of you! Please post your comments, thoughts, and ideas below!

Happy Giving,
Jennifer

Thanks and More from the Gift Therapist

I would like to take this opportunity to thank all of you who have support this blog over the past year and have contributed significantly to it's popularity and development. I am currently planning a new format for 2009 filled with more reviews, giveaways, and expert gift giving advice that can make your shopping experience a little easier and a lot more fun! Santa has been very good to me this year, and I received many great products that I would love to share with all of you.





The first product is from Sexy Hair Organics. Remember the big red can of hairspray? Same folks, new product line. I have no idea how they found my address, but I wasn't going to complain. I was thrilled to receive a sample of both the organic shampoo and conditioner. This evening I tried both the shampoo and conditioner that they sent to me. What you must know about me and my hair is this...I'll try anything once! Normally I purchase shampoo and conditioner that is on sale at the grocery store, so trying out a new salon product was quite the treat! My first impression of the shampoo was that it smelled awesome...very light but clean. I've never smelled anything like it, and it will be hard not to go out and buy this after the sample bottle is gone. I have a ton of medium-coarse hair, so I had to use quite a bit just to get a good lather going. I was concerned that it wouldn't get all of the product out of my hair, but IT DID! The conditioner was just the right weight and didn't oversoften or flatten my hair...very nice! And as an added bonus, the product boasts being "green" and great for the environment. Made with 95% organic and certified organic ingredients, Sexy Hair Organics are sulfate free, petrochemical free, dye free and paraben free. The shampoo and conditioner both retail for under $20 and can be found at a salon or beauty supply store near you. Be sure to visit http://www.sexyhair.com/ for more info, product lines, and an example of a website that's really well done :)