The Holiday season is undoubtedly one of the busiest times of the year. It’s also a time where people have the biggest tendencies to overspend. There’s money for food (a Turkey for Thanksgiving, celebration food for Christmas and New Year’s), you need to shell out for presents, and then there are those holiday items and decorations around the house.

But what if someone told you that you don’t have to whip out your check book or swipe your card too much this holiday season? What if you could keep your Christmas bonus in your savings account this year? Well, the good news is you can. Give yourself the present of creativity this season. Instead of buying all the presents and decorations that you need, why not just make them?

1. It’s Cheaper – Choosing to make your own decorations and presents can be a whole lot cheaper than buying all those shiny new items on the department store shelves. If you do the legwork and research on local arts and crafts stores, you’ll find that some of them offer great prices on ribbons, bead supplies, various types of paper, and other cheap craft supplies. Read up on art magazines and visit arts and crafts websites to get ideas on what to create. You can even head to a nearby arts and crafts store and check out the various items to see what you can cook up.

2. You Can Make it Just the Way YOU Want It – Ever went to a department store, picked up an item and said, “This would be perfect if only it [insert missing feature here].” One the biggest advantages of do-it-yourself projects is that you can customize your creations to look exactly the way you want them to look like. YOU get to decide on an item’s length, size, color, and other features. No more buying items half-heartedly or getting in the waiting list just to get the exact color you wanted; this time, you can choose to do it yourself.

3. It’s More Personal – This is your chance to show off your creative and thoughtful side to your friends and relatives! Nothing says “personal” more than a handmade present. This year, give your loved ones something that came from the fruits of your creativity. It’s a very heartwarming gesture, and your friends and family will certainly remember you for it. Let your gift be something that will immediately remind them of you whenever they see it. This personal touch doesn’t just apply to presents, by the way. Choose to hand-make the holiday decorations for your house and give your home an extra oomph that will make you look more memorable to anyone who steps foot inside.  Think about it. With the tons of Thanksgiving and Christmas events all around, it’s easy to get lost in a whirl of homes and events. Wouldn’t you want YOUR place to make a lasting impression on people?

4. You Can Do it with the Family – One great bonus of doing hand-crafted presents and decorations is that you can invite the whole family to join in! Doing arts and crafts with your spouse and kids unleashes the family’s creative side while paving the way for tons of bonding moments to take place, at the same time.

Image credit: Carissa GoodNCrazy on Flickr

Whether you want to entertained, comforted, or you’re in it for the “bonding sessions,” a movie night is a great activity that never gets old. Not only is it a great stress reliever, but one of the best things about a movie marathon is the fact that practically anyone can enjoy it. You can do it with your friends, spouse, or even the whole family. However, with the state of the economy weighing down on most consumers, it’s pretty sad to see that  some families or groups have brought movie nights to the chopping board. This isn’t that surprising though; after all, frequenting the cinemas can get pretty expensive (and don’t even get started on the price of food in theaters).

If you’re one of those who cringe at the thought of spending 11 bucks at the movies, then perhaps you should explore other more cost-effective ways to be able to watch movies for cheap. Check out the suggestions below. Each option has its own set of pros and cons, and certain choices may only work for some. Either way, evaluate your movie-watching habits and see what works best for you.

Redbox – Redbox lets customers rent new-releases for extremely low prices. Users can rent discs for as low as a dollar a day, and with Redbox kiosks located at thousands of locations, it proves to be a very convenient way for users to get their hands on the latest releases. If you happen to be at a grocery store or a gas station, check to see if there’s a Redbox kiosk in the area, and pick up a great movie on the way home.

SwapADVD – Got a bunch of DVDs at home that are just accumulating dust? Then consider signing up with SwapADVD.com, a great online service that enables user to swap DVDs online and save money in the process. If you have original, playable DVDs that you do not wish to keep, post the titles to your “DVD Tower” on SwapADVD.com. Once you’ve posted 10 titles, you’ll earn 1 gift credit that will enable you to start swapping. After that, you’ll be able to receive more credits by sending out discs to other members. When another member requests a DVD from you, the site will notify you via email, and you’ll be in charge of mailing out the DVD to the requestor, and once it is received, you’ll be able to earn a credit. You will need to pay for postage when you send out DVDs, but it does even out, because when you request a DVD, you won’t have to pay anything, except 1 credit. You can do whatever you want with the DVDs that you receive. You can choose to keep them, or swap them again, once you’re done watching.

Netflix, Hulu, Amazon – These options are for you if you’re the type who spends a lot of time online and you want to keep it that way. Each of these services vary in terms of prices and offers, and it all depends on the types of movies and shows that you like, and how often you watch them.

Albeit the immense amount of bad press that Netflix got due to them raising their prices, the company still offers good value IF you make it worth it. Netflix offers unlimited movies and TV episodes to watch instantly online for $7.99 a month.

Hulu is another service that enables users to watch movies and TV shows online. It has a free service that lets you watch up to five recent episodes of season shows from networks like Fox, CBS, and more. Hulu also has a paid subscription called Hulu Plus, which gives users access to all current episodes of several shows for 7.99 a month.

Amazon – The online retailer is offering free unlimited streaming of over 5,000 movies and TV shows as part of the Amazon Prime membership that costs $79 per year. If you’re already a loyal Amazon customer, and do most of your shopping there, then consider upgrading your account to Amazon Prime.

Image credit: dcJohn on Flickr

Whether you’re looking to spice up your vehicle or trying to find the perfect gift for your car-obsessed male buddies, the holidays are the perfect time to shop because there’s a huge chance that you can snag great deals on cheap electronics and cool car gadgets. To give you some ideas, the CheapStuff team scoured the web for the most interesting car gadgets out there. The result? A list of awesome electronics that would serve as perfect additions to any vehicle. These half-novelty, half-utility car gadgets are guaranteed to put a smile on any driver’s face. Check them out below:

1. PowerLine PowerCup 200/400 Watt Mobile Inverter with USB Power Port – Coffee cup on the outside, powerhouse on the inside. This nifty little device allows you to charge three gadgets at once. Its features include 200 Watt Continuous, 400 Watt peak, 120V AC power from any auto 12V power socket, and AC Outlet, and a USB Port. Simply connect it to the vehicle’s DC adapter, and you’re good to go. You can use the PowerLine PowerCup to charge your mobile phone, plugin your laptop, or any electronic device, for that matter.

2. Bushnell Backtrack Point-3 Personal GPS Locator – If you know anyone who’s always getting lost in parking lots trying to find their car, then this little gadget is a lifesaver. The device lets users “mark” the spot that they wish to return to. They can then go about their business, and when they decide to go back to that specific spot, the Bushnell Backtrack will provide directions. It’s small enough to be used as a keychain and can fit practically anywhere. Additionally, the Bushnell Backtrack isn’t just for finding parking spaces, it’s also a handy tool for campers or hikers of wish to mark a specific location in the field or forest that they want to go back to.

3. Drivemocion LED Car Message Sign – Did a rude driver cut in front of you? Or maybe there’s an anxious car    drivingtoo close behind. Resist the urge to flip the finger. Instead, get yourself the Drivemocion LED Car Message Sign. This electronic device lets drivers communicate with each other with the use of LED smileys and words. Depending on the model, you will be able to display words like “Thanks”, “Sorry”, “Back off”, as well as light up smiley or grumpy faces with the use of a remote control.

4. Cobra iRadar – Just to be clear, speeding shouldn’t be condoned. However, speed traps, red light cameras, and lurking cops can sometimes do more harm than good for drivers. The Corbra iRadar communicates to your iPhone or Android device using Bluethooth in order to warn you of speed traps, dangerous intersections, radars, and red light cameras. Simply dock your smartphone on the device, and it will give you audio warnings when it detects a threat.

5. TFT Mirror Monitor with Rear-View Night Vision Camera – In a tight parking spot? Allow this device to assist you. The TFT Mirror Monitor Kit consists of two things: a camera and a clip-on rear view mirror. Simply install the camera above your license then clip the monitor to your rear view mirror. The camera outputs video over an RCA jack; when it detects that your vehicle is backing up, it will display what the camera sees on your rear view mirror. When you switch your gears back to drive, the image disappears and your mirror reverts to a mirror again.

The holidays are finally here, which means that people’s calendars are probably filled with parties, gatherings, and shopping sprees. If you’re the ultimate social butterfly with all these different events lined up, then chances are, you’ll be running back and forth all over the city to attend all your engagements, which can get a little stressful and even ruin your holiday mood.  This season, do yourself a favor and get a reliable GPS sidekick to direct you to through this busy time of the year. Need help picking one? That’s what CheapStuff.com is here for. This blog post will discuss the top-rated GPS devices in the market. Oh, but do keep in mind that while these items are highly-rated, it doesn’t mean that they come with high price tags too. Check out the CheapStuff website and see if you can get these electronics for cheap!

Now, some people might think that all GPS devices are the same; you type in your destination, and the device will dictate directions to get there. And while that is indeed the basic function of all GPS navigators, it’s important to note that different models widely vary in features, size, connectivity, and price. When shopping for a GPS navigator, don’t just go for the cheapest model or the shiniest one on the shelf. Do your research first. You don’t want to pay for features that you won’t use, but at the same time, you don’t want to waste your money on a device with extremely limited functionality.

Below are some of the most popular models from the top GPS navigator brands in the industry: TomTom, Garmin, and Magellan. Read up on these models and get an idea on which device best suits your needs.

1. TomTom GO Live 1535M – As what its name indicates, this GO Live device offers Live services, including HD Traffic, weather forecasts, and fuel prices. But that’s just the tip of the iceberg. The TomTom Go LIVE also integrates with search apps like Yelp, Expedia, Trip Advisor, and Google, which means that users will be able to it to find establishments in the area AND read up on reviews about these places. It also integrates with Twitter (yes, you read that right) to allow users to tweet their ETA and location to their followers.

2. Garmin Nuvi 3790T – Looking for something sleek, shiny, and light-weight? Then the Garmin Nuvi 3790T could be the navigator for you. According to CNET, “Garmin has essentially solidified the 3790T’s spot as the sexiest dedicated GPS device you can buy.” This car navigator goes beyond good looks, though. One of its key features is its voice command and hands-free capability (plus Bluetooth) that allows drivers to communicate while keeping their hands on the wheel. Its touchscreen is also very responsive and even has multitouch commands. However, it may not be very convenient if you intend to wear gloves in this cold season, because its screen requires direct skin contact.

3. Magellan RoadMate 5175T-LM – The most popular feature of this device would be the TourDirector which lets you check out local attractions, organize itineraries, and make the most out of your travel time. It’s perfect for trying to find things to do in an unfamiliar city. It also has Wi-Fi connectivity that lets users surf the net. The downside though, according to CNET, is that “Destinations in the TourDirector can only be viewed based on proximity, not rating or popularity.”

Image credit: zipckr on Flickr

For centuries, music has continued to inspire, console, and motivate people. Even today, in spite of all the changes and developments that the world has gone through, the power of music remains intact. Sure, ways to obtain and consume music have definitely evolved, but its effect on people hasn’t changed one bit.

The great thing about living in this day and age is that there are so many ways to access your favorite tunes; mp3 players are a crowd favorite because these gadgets are portable and can store huge amounts of music. If you’re looking for a new handy mp3 player, check out the suggestions below. The price range for each one may vary, so be sure to scour the CheapStuff website for some good deals on cheap electronics.

1. Apple Products – Of course, Apple is going to be on the top of the list. This company revolutionized how people listen to music and paved the way for sleeker and more functional mp3 players. The iTunes store that allows people to purchase individual songs and albums at affordable prices served as a “win-win” for both consumers and the music industry.

Their music players include:

iPod Touch – Should this nifty gadget even be called an mp3 player? Aside from storing thousands of songs, the iPod Touch also has the FaceTime feature that allows you to video call your contacts, and it can record video in full HD. Moreover, it gives you access to the App Store where you can download various games and apps. Awesome, right?

iPod Classic – The iPod Classic is for the purists—those who want a no-frills mp3 player. This particular electronic device has a storage capacity of 160 GB which roughly translates to 40,000 songs, 200 hours of video, or 25,000 photos. Whew.

iPod Nano – This is recommended for people who like listening to music while they’re working out. Aside from storing and playing your songs, the iPod Nano also has a Fitness feature with a built-in accelerometer that allows you to track your steps, distance, pace, and time. Best of all the Nano is actually made for being on the go. “It’s portable and wearable, which makes it runnable, walkable, and workoutable.”

iPod Shuffle – Don’t let its size fool you, because this thing is chock full of great features. Aside from surprising you with your tunes, the iPod Shuffle actually talks to you. Yep, if you want to find out the title and artist of a particular song, it can tell you with just a push of a button. It also has a “Genius” feature that compiles songs that will go great together.

2. Zune HD – Don’t underestimate Microsoft’s Zune music player, as it can also provide users with an exceptional video and music experience. It has a 3.3 inch touchscreen, together with a brilliant OLED display, HD radio tuner, movie rentals, subscription music integration, and a long battery life to brag about. It also has an HD video out that lets users watch HD movies and TV shows, and shop from the Zune Marketplace all from a big screen HDTV.

3. SanDisk Sansa Clip Zip – This music player is one of the best bargains that you’ll find in the market. For under $50, you get a device that plays most audio formats, plays and records FM radio stations, and a built in microphone that allows it to function as a voice recorder. Oh, and it also has room for more files via microSD. If you’re not looking for anything too fancy or graphic-y in terms of user interface, then the SanDisk Sansa Clip Zip will suit you just fine.

Summer has officially come and gone, which means that it’s time to pack up the swim suits, beach towels, and flip flops, to make way for plaid shirts, light sweaters, and boots. However, clothing items aren’t the only things that we need to make room for. Remember that fall brings in cooler temperatures, which means we also have bring out heating devices to stay comfortable. Examine your AC/Heat system and determine if it’s going to last for the rest of the year. After all, the last thing you want is for the heat to break down in the middle of a cold night.

A lot of families think twice before using central heating, because it can get pricey. If the whole house doesn’t need the heat, then maybe you’re better off purchasing portable electric space heaters that can save money on electricity in the long run.

If you think that that the heating devices in your home need replacing, or if you’d rather purchase a single heating unit as opposed to using a centralized system, be sure to check online or browse your local newspapers for good deals on electronics, and see if there are any good heaters on sale.

A number of factors will affect your heater of choice. Consider the size of your home, the number of people who will need it, and the kinds of activities that you’ll be doing. Are you planning to heat up the whole house, or just a single room? Do you have enough space for it? Be sure to ask all these questions and create a checklist of your heater “must-haves.”

The succeeding paragraphs will discuss different types of heaters, as well as their brief descriptions and uses. Take the time to look into these products and see which one is right for you and your home.

Radiant Heater – This type of heater provides instant heat for objects instead of heating up the air. A lot of models make use of reflectors to focus heat in a specific direction. A radiant heater is best used in a room with a single occupant because it’s designed to only provide heat to objects that are in its line of sight. Be careful though, as a radiant heater can present potential danger if put in the wrong place or if you forget to turn it off. If possible, get one with an automatic timer that switches the device off automatically after a certain period of time.

Panel Heater – This is a popular choice for people who want to heat up a whole room with multiple occupants, because a panel heater is energy efficient, easy to install, and powerful enough to warm up an entire room in minutes. A panel heater can simply be attached to a wall near an outlet, and it’s just a matter of plug and play to operate. Panel heaters usually have a thermostat control that maintains the desired heat so you wouldn’t have to keep readjusting it. These devices are virtually noise-free, so you’ll be able to enjoy a warm and toasty room without any buzzing or hissing in the background. They also come in various shapes, sizes, and colors so you’re free to pick one that will blend in with a room’s décor.

Ceramic Heater – This type of heater can be as portable as a radiant heater, while having the capability to heat up a whole room as well. Ceramic heaters provide directional space heating, but they also make use of fans to distribute the heat across a room. Moreover, newer models allow the use of the fan alone (meaning without the heat) allowing people to use it even in warmer temperatures.

When you finally decide on a heater, be sure to keep up with its maintenance schedule and requirements to increase its longevity. Safety should also be a top priority. Never leave a heater on for too long, and keep electrical cables organized and out of the way.

Image credit: tjsander on Flickr

When it comes to gift-shopping for women, clothing boutiques and shoe stores are usually the go-to shops that people head for. However, bear in mind that nowadays, women are becoming more and more tech-savvy. Female power-users are emerging every day, and a lot of them would appreciate a shiny new device over designer stilettos. With that said, this season, when you’re shopping for presents for your mom, wife, or lady friends, instead of sticking to the apparel section of a store, why not head over to the tech aisle, and find a sleek new gadget that she’ll love? The good news is, with the holidays being right around the corner, you’re bound to find a lot of great deals on cheap electronics.

Not quite sure what she could use? Check out the suggestions below:

1. GPS Navigator – A woman may be more inclined to ask for directions as compared to her male counterpart, but why let her go through the trouble? Whether she’s scouring for the best sales in town, or off to find that hole-in-the-wall bar that serves the best Cosmopolitans, a GPS device is something that could definitely assist her. It really is one of those items that you shouldn’t leave home without. Thankfully, over the years, the prices of GPS navigators have significantly dropped. In the past, you couldn’t get one for less than a couple of hundred dollars; these days though, you can find a handy GPS device for less than a hundred dollars. And with all the holiday sales, you’ll probably see prices drop even more.

2. Digital Camera – It doesn’t matter if she’s girly, sporty, or a cowboy, women love capturing moments on camera. Whether it’s a night-out with the girls or a night-out in the woods, a camera is must-have for the ladies. Some women even carry around a digital camera in their purse even if there’s no occasion. This holiday season, why not give her camera an upgrade, and get her a spanking new digital cam complete with massive storage, facial recognition, and social sharing capabilities? Want to go all out? Get her a digital SLR and challenge her to get creative with those shots.

3. Tablets – Always stay connected with the women in your life with the help of tablet devices that allow her to login to her mailbox and social networks. Sure, she may already have a smartphone that does those things, but a tablet offers longer battery life and of course, a bigger screen. Large screens are great for reading, and a tablet will ensure that she’ll be able to access all her favorite books, magazines, and newspapers wherever she is. Ladies need to be kept in the know too, and she’ll certainly be grateful for a new tablet that she can play with.

4. Wii – Wii is not just a fun video game console, it’s a great way to get active too! A lot of women are conscious about their figures and being physically fit, but not all of them have the time to go to the gym. A Wii is a convenient and cost-effective device that keeps people on their toes. Women would especially love their sport simulator games and workout programs that include aerobics, yoga, and more.

5. Portable Games – Video games aren’t just for guys, you know. Dare to be different and get her a Nintendo 3DS or a PSP, and she’ll be pleasantly surprised. Not only will these devices entertain her while on the go, but fun and games effectively keep an individual young at heart. Wondering what games to get? Diner Dash, Final Fantasy, and Sims are widely popular for everyone, even women!

6. Headphones – Music services such as iTunes, Spotify, and Pandora are a godsend, as they’re able to bring millions of songs and albums right at their users’ fingertips. Shopping for a present for a music-loving female? Get her a stylish headphone. The great thing about these things is that headphones come in virtually all colors and designs, and you’ll be sure to find a piece that would match your friend’s taste… and outfit.

Image credit: mediafury on Flickr

Memorial Day weekend demands a backyard barbecue. That’s right— it’s time to dust off the grill, or simply buy another one. Take advantage of early summer sales and upgrade your outdated model. There are tons of products to choose from depending on your needs. As soon as you walk in the store, you’ll notice that there are several main types of grills: charcoal, gas, electric, and portable. Each carries certain advantages and drawbacks. Take the time to learn more about them before you end up buying something that won’t work out.

Good old fashioned charcoal grills need no in introduction. These bad boys fueled summer cook outs for generations. Many people prefer charcoal for nostalgic reasons. The smell of charbroiled burgers brings back fond memories of baseball games and family gatherings. The main problem with fire lies in unevenness. Flames flicker in unpredictable ways, which requires constant attention to avoid charring. There’s a certain degree of skill involved, though lots of people pride themselves on mastering this culinary art form. Charcoal takes longer to heat up, but the classic smoked flavor cannot be replicated any other way. These kinds of grills tend to be fairly simple in terms of design; consequently, they’re easier on the wallet. The charcoal itself is relatively inexpensive as well as widely available.

Gas grills get the job done quickly with little prep time. They need about as much preheating time as an oven. This makes them suitable for folks who intend to barbecue frequently. Propane costs a bit more than charcoal, but it cooks meat evenly. This gives you the freedom to leave the grill alone while you attend to other matters, such as side dishes or setting the table. Although gas is extremely flammable, it’s considered safer than an open fire pit. You may store and use a gas grill in a compact space without creating a fire hazard. Families with young children or rambunctious pets might want to go with gas for safety reasons. Easy maintenance is another plus. Charcoal creates a hard, crusty residue that must be scrubbed off before usage. Gas produces less carbon, so there’s not as much to scrape off afterward. Before you run out and get a top of the line gas powered beast, make sure you’re willing to spend at least a few hundred dollars up front. Mini versions alone start at about $130.

Electric grills cost about as much if not more than their gas powered counterparts. The higher costs come with premium features and almost no extra upkeep expenses. Electric grills give you the most control over the temperature without the aftertaste associated with propane. These carry the same safety benefits and are suitable for smaller environments. Most models eat up a lot of juice, so you need access to a steady outlet capable of supporting a large appliance.

Portable grills are perfect for travel or tight living arrangements, such as studio apartments. Obviously, an electric grill won’t work very well on a camping trip unless you bring a generator. Otherwise, you shouldn’t have any problems serving up juicy burgers wherever you happen to be. The only real drawback to these condensed machines stems from their capacity. You won’t be able to feed a lot of people all at once, especially when steak’s on the menu.

For the best of both worlds, try a hybrid model. There are combination charcoal/gas grills as well as charcoal/electric. This way you’ll be able to choose your preferred cooking method at any time. These tend to be on the pricier side, but their versatility makes them worthwhile.

The air’s heating up, and that means it’s time to start packing up your winter gear. Summer’s not in full swing, so the fashion questions remain. No one knows exactly what will be going on by July, but here’s a sneak peak at what’s in store for Summer 2011!

Crop tops- Totally 80s inspired cut off tops/tanks for those who dare to bare it all. Be forewarned: this look isn’t right for some body types. In fact, it won’t work well for most women. If you’re even the least bit chunky, proceed with caution! The midriff should be worn by the young, thin, and tan. It’s about as forgiving as a bikini, so use that as a gauge. If you feel comfortable strutting your stuff in a two piece swim suit, then you’ll probably love this style.

Boyfriend/Midi Shorts- Last year everyone suffered in tight denim shorts. Summer 2011 leaves more breathing room in looser jean shorts with familiar details. The destroyed look gets scaled back a bit; frayed edges with smaller tears keep it together without overdoing the grunge motif. Slouchy Midis hit at about a 4 inch inseam, which means they grace the upper thighs. Glam up the comfy, relaxed fit pieces with expressive sandals and an ultra-feminine top. Word to the wise–––pairing these puppies with a crop top runs the risk of appearing manly, not in chic androgynous way. It might be tempting to mix and match the two items, but pulling it off will prove quite difficult. Think oversized, flowy shirts with delicate ruffles or adorable prints.

Linen Shorts- Ideal for lounging around on the beach, tanning by the pool, or chilling with friends, lightweight linen shorts are the perfect alternative to tight denim. Breathe easy while adding a splash of vibrant color to your outfit. These make great swimsuit cover ups, and weekend digs. They’re super soft, so you won’t feel bogged down. Finding the right top to go with them might be a little tough depending on the color. For super bright bottoms, choose solid color tees and tanks. Clashing is only for the truly bold fashionistas, though it can be done successfully. Everyone else will stick with plain long body scoop neck tanks.

Tunics- Some find their billow shape confusing, but there’s no reason to fear these boho throwbacks. Much like the cropped fare, tunics aren’t flattering on all body types. Tunics tend to mesh well on slender, lanky gals. Longer arms heighten the contrast between the bulky fabric and your actual silhouette. Don’t let these tips keep you from going for the gold, though. Tunics are versatile enough to transition from day to evening wear, and they’re dressy enough for business casual offices. They go with skirts, shorts, jeans, or pants. Soft pastel shades, such as lilac and teal, add a summery touch to the frills. Tunics tend to be more or less see through, which means you shouldn’t leave the house in a plain old bra. Throw a matching tank underneath. The lightweight fabric will keep you cool in spite of the layering.

Maxi Dresses- These resurfaced a few years back, but didn’t make much of an impact. All that’s about to change; these sexy retro pieces add a touch of vintage 70s chic to every wardrobe. Whether solid or print, you’ll have fun discovering the different necklines. Halter necks are straight from the disco days whereas racer back straps give off a sporty vibe. For an oh-so-modern appearance, try a printed halter maxi dress. Maxis also work best on the long and lean, but full figured women are capable of pulling them off with confidence. Of course, Maxis always pose a footwear problem. You’ll hear conflicting advice from tons of sources. Some say wedges, others recommend flats or flip flops. It really depends on your height. Taller women are ok in flats, shorter ladies should opt for chunky wedges.

There, now you’re prepared for your next trip to the mall! Or at least until Independence Day….

Recession wary parents might not be able to afford an expensive summer vacation this year. Gas prices are through the roof, which means airfare isn’t going down any time soon. For these reasons, lots of families are opting to simply stay at home. Still, “staycations” don’t have to be boring. There are plenty of ways to spice things up in the neighborhood and your very own backyard. Inexpensive staples such as ice cream cones, trips to the park, bowling, and day camp will get your kids smiling in spite of themselves. Try finding group activities for them to participate in. Go with something they’re already into or encourage them to develop a new skill. Sign your little slugger up for summer little league. Skateboarding lessons will satisfy extreme sports enthusiasts whereas ballet classes will delight delicate dancers.

When you run out of ideas, try turning the backyard into a kid’s paradise! Set a budget and let the kids decide what how to spend the money. This project provides entertainment while teaching them valuable lessons about setting priorities and sticking to a financial plan. Remember, younger children love hands on play, so you don’t have to spend much to keep them happy. For example, let them decorate the yard with sidewalk chalk. Bubble toys are another less expensive option for tots. A kiddie pool serves as an example of a larger outdoor toy to work around. Let them pick the a big ticket center piece and then several smaller accessories or unrelated toys.

Getting older kids outside and away from video games proves challenging, but they’re worth the effort. It’s probably a good idea to try and accommodate their hobbies. A pitching backstop helps a little leaguer improve that throwing arm, which makes it easier to inspire curiosity. A skateboard ramp or stationary rail isn’t the safest selection, but wearing the proper safety equipment minimizes the risk of serious bodily injury. A trampoline would be on the pricier side, although it’s ideal for young gymnasts. Parents concerned about their kids getting hurt should opt for a trampoline safety net. It adds to the cost, yet brings you peace of mind.