Celebrate Your Best Friend with the Restaurant.com $3 Bestie Sale!

While there will forever be holidays that, in my opinion, don't exactly need to exist (I'm looking at you, Toothache Day on February 9th and Lumpy Rug Day on May 3rd), knowing that today is National Best Friends Day only brings a smile to my face. Who doesn't want to have an excuse to celebrate their best buds?

That's right, June 8 has been designated as a day to honor that one special person (or people) you call your best friend. Today is a time to show them how much you appreciate them, how special and important they are to you, and how you cherish their friendship.

So, since it has been said that the best way to one's heart is through their stomach, it makes sense to celebrate Best Friend's Day by treating your bestie to a dinner out thanks to Restaurant.com!

But your best friend knows you're smart and save money whenever you can, right? That's why Restaurant.com has made it even easier and more affordable to head out to eat tonight (or anytime) by serving up a special!

Simply head over to their website and pick up $25 certificates for only $3 by using the promo code HEART!

Remember that you can always search Restaurant.com by location, cuisine, price range and more, to find exactly what you want, where you want it.

So go ahead and fill up your cart with $3 gift certificates so that you can not only treat your bestie, but so that you'll be prepared for future teacher gifts, housewarming surprises, or simply a tasty meal out for your friends, family, coworkers or YOU! We're talking a $25 gift certificate for only $3! But don't wait because this offer ends tonight, June 8th, at 11:59 pm CST.

Your favorite restaurant might be waiting for you to discover it right in your own neighborhood (they provide savings at more than 20,000 restaurants across America!), so let Restaurant.com not only introduce you, but save you a great deal of money at the same time.

As a member of the Restaurant.com Review Crew, I have been provided gift cards and compensation in order to facilitate my reviews and for sharing this information. However, all thoughts and opinions are honest and my own.

Stock Up and Save on P&G Everyday Essentials This Month at Walmart! {#StockUpSave}

This is a sponsored post for SheSpeaks/Walmart but all thoughts and opinions are honest and my own.

Having been raised by thrifty and frugal parents, it's in my genes to continually be on the lookout for a good deal. After all, why spend more money on something than you have to?

So, when it comes to saving money on the everyday products and brands that we use — Bounty, Charmin and Tide, just to name a few — I'm happy to find a way to keep a few extra dollars in my pocket.

Fortunately, this month Procter & Gamble and Walmart have partnered together to help stretch our budgets a bit further with a promotion that is not to be missed. If you have items from P&G on your shopping list, then it's time to head to Walmart for the Stock Up and Save Event!

The special savings is simple! This month simply head to your local Walmart (or online to StockUpSave.com) and you'll be ready to stock up (and save!) on P&G essentials as they are offering all sorts of big savings and guaranteed low prices on items such as Tide laundry detergent, Charmin toilet paper, Pampers Swaddlers diapers, and more.

With warmer weather and sunny skies on the way, it just makes sense to head to this event now so you can plan on spending more time with your family and less time running out this spring. Plus, no one wants to find themselves reaching into the closet for personal care or home cleaning items only to discover that the shelf is empty!

Seeing as I didn't need any more convincing after hearing "big savings" it wasn't long before I was at my local Walmart to stock up.

Walmart is already known for offering low prices, but there is always added value — and even more savings — when you stock up with these sorts of deals! Right now this event can provide extra value on the following great P&G products:

• Bounty Select-A-Size 12-Pack Mega Roll
• Tide 100 oz. Original HE Liquid Laundry Detergent
• Pampers Swaddlers Huge Box
• Head & Shoulders Dry Scalp Shampoo, 23.7 oz.
• Head & Shoulders Dry Scalp Conditioner, 23.7 oz.
• Febreze Air Effects Linen & Sky
• Dawn Original 75 oz.
• Gillette MACH3 Sensitive Disposable 3-Pack
• Venus Sensitive Disposable 3-Pack
• Gain 100 oz. Original Liquid Laundry Detergent
• Charmin Ultra Strong 36 Double-Roll Pack
• Crest Pro-Health Rinse, Clean Mint, 250ml

I started my shopping by taking a look at the savings on a few of the P&G personal care products that just about everyone can use.

This great Head & Shoulders shampoo and conditioner are perfect for those that want a little extra nourishment for their dry scalp and I knew that I couldn't leave the aisle without grabbing a bottle of Crest Pro-Health Rinse and a package of Venus Sensitive disposable razors. My kids are hooked on using "swish" in their oral care routine and my legs have been hidden under long pants all winter and... well, let's just say it isn't all that pretty.

Next up it was over into the home care section of the store to take a look at the essentials that work to keep my home clean in the spring and long beyond.

Febreze Air Effects are just the thing to ensure that guests are met with a fresh, clean scent when they step into our house (as opposed to the smell of our cats' litter box and Big Sister E's dirty socks that seem to be underfoot no matter where I step) and I love stocking up on a large bottle of Dawn Dishwashing Liquid so that we never run out — it's perfect for refills!

But when it comes to one of the top necessities around here, there is no doubt that I turn to Tide.

Between the daily outfits, pajamas, swimsuits and towels, soccer uniforms, muddy jackets, and more that my family goes through each week, sometimes it's a wonder to me that the washing machine isn't going 24 hours a day.

Forget all the pre-treating and scrubbing and soaking, I just stock up on Tide and know that this high quality liquid laundry detergent will do all the work for me!

What P&G products can you not live without? Be sure to head to your nearest Walmart by the end of April to take advantage of the Stock Up and Save Event with me — not only will you be able to pick up everyday essentials for less, stocking up means you won't run out when you need something most!

Want to grab even more savings? Check out the rewards from P&G that are available by using the Ibotta app today! And, remember that if you would rather shop online, you can also take advantage of these great savings by visiting StockUpSave.com.

Find out more information about all of the great home and personal care products that are a part of this event by "attending" the April Stock Up and Save Event on Facebook, where you can also opt to receive reminders throughout this month to get your P&G shopping done at Walmart while the savings are high!

Restaurant.com $3 Spring Sale!

I'm going to go ahead and throw caution to the wind and say it: Spring has sprung!

All of the snow has melted, the birds are singing, flowers are popping up everywhere, and the temperatures haven't dropped down into the arctic range in weeks! Along with packing away the winter boots and gloves, it is also time to celebrate the season by taking the family to enjoy alfresco dining and fruity drinks — all while saving a bundle thanks to Restaurant.com!

If you've never visited Restaurant.com, you'll want to head to their website to see what local restaurants and small businesses in your area are included (or in areas to which you may be traveling) so that you can get the best deal on your next meal.

It's easy to search by location, cuisine, price range and more as the site is designed to help diners find and visit local restaurants, get a great value, and, in turn, strengthen the local economy. What more could you ask for?

A sale, of course! To help ring in spring, Restaurant.com is serving up $25 Certificates for only $3 by using the promo code SALE. Not to mention that all of their other deals are on sale, too! For example, grab a $10 Certificate for just $1.20!

So go ahead and fill up your cart with $3 gift certificates for grab bag gifts, teacher thank you's or simply a tasty meal out for your friends, family, coworkers or YOU! We're talking a $25 gift certificate for only $3! But don't delay, because this offer ends Thursday, March 31st at 11:59 pm CT.

Your favorite restaurant might be waiting for you to discover it right in your own neighborhood (they provide savings at more than 22,000 restaurants across America!), so let Restaurant.com not only introduce you, but save you a great deal of money at the same time.

As a member of the Restaurant.com Review Crew, I have been provided gift cards and compensation in order to facilitate my reviews and for sharing this information. However, all thoughts and opinions are honest and my own.

Restaurant.com 'Better Than Best' Cyber Monday $3 Sale!

With the passing of Thanksgiving and Black Friday come and gone, I think it's safe to say that just about everyone is on the lookout for great gift-giving ideas.

When it comes to finding just the right token of appreciation, gift ideas can range all across the spectrum in terms of creativity and budget. Big? Small? Specific? General?

One sure winner? Giving friends and family (and teachers, hairdressers, mail carriers and more) time away from the kitchen by letting them dine out at their favorite restaurant. Who doesn't love when someone else does the cooking and cleaning for you?

Which is why there is still time to head to Restaurant.com to not only pick up a gift certificate, but one that will provide a savings at more than 22,000 restaurants nationwide with an endless number of gift certificate options!

Gift certificates are a great idea all year round, but if you're stumped on last minute holiday gift ideas, then you won't want to miss out on the awesome Cyber Monday special they're holding TODAY ONLY!

That's right, throughout today, Cyber Monday November 30th, Restaurant.com is offering a $3 for $25 deal for anyone using the promo code CYBER.

If you've never visited Restaurant.com, you'll want to head to their website to see what local restaurants and small businesses in your area are included (or in areas to which you may be traveling — their mobile app is fantastic for traveling and you can use certificates right from your phone!) so that you can get the best deal on your next meal. The site is designed to help diners find and visit local restaurants, get a great value, and, in turn, strengthen the local economy. What more could you ask for?

So go ahead and fill up your cart with $3 gift certificates for stocking stuffers, grab bag gifts, or simply a tasty meal out for your friends, family, coworkers or YOU! We're talking a $25 gift certificate for only $3! But remember that you have to hurry because this offer ends Monday, November 30th at 11:59 pm CST.

This holiday season, show your lucky recipients that you care while also being smart and saving money on dining deals at Restaurant.com. Be sure to visit their website to find out more about their gift cards as well as to find participating restaurants near you. You'll also want to connect with them on Facebook, Twitter, Google+ and their blog so that you never miss their next great deal.

As a member of the Restaurant.com Review Crew, I have been provided gift cards and compensation in order to facilitate my reviews and for sharing this information. However, all thoughts and opinions are honest and my own. 

Smokin' HOT $3 Sale From Restaurant.com!

When it comes to taking advantage of a deal, I'm always on the lookout for a good bargain... and that is exactly what happening TODAY from Restaurant.com!

That's right, today only Restaurant.com is giving customers the ability to score $25 gift certificates for only $3 simply by entering the promo code HOT!

If you've never visited Restaurant.com, you'll want to head to their website to see what local restaurants and small businesses in your area are included (or in areas to which you may be traveling) so that you can get the best deal on your next meal. The site is designed to help diners find and visit local restaurants, get a great value, and, in turn, strengthen the local economy. What more could you ask for? 

So go ahead and fill up your cart with $3 gift certificates for future stocking stuffers, grab bag gifts, or simply a tasty meal out for your friends, family, coworkers or YOU! We're talking a $25 gift certificate for only $3! But remember that you have to hurry because this offer ends tonight, September 28th, at 11:59 pm CST.

Your favorite restaurant might be waiting for you to discover it right in your own neighborhood (they provide savings at more than 20,000 restaurants across America!), so let Restaurant.com not only introduce you, but save you a great deal of money at the same time.

As a member of the Restaurant.com Review Crew, I have been provided gift cards and compensation in order to facilitate my reviews and for sharing this information. However, all thoughts and opinions are honest and my own.  

Restaurant.com $3 for $25 Cyber Monday Sale!

With the arrival of December and Black Friday come and gone, I think it's safe to say that just about everyone is on the lookout for great gift-giving ideas.

When it comes to finding just the right token of appreciation, gift ideas can range all across the spectrum in terms of creativity and budget. Big? Small? Specific? General?

One sure winner? Giving friends and family (and teachers, hairdressers, mail carriers and more) time away from the kitchen by letting them dine out at their favorite restaurant. Who doesn't love when someone else does the cooking and cleaning for you?

Which is why there is still time to head to Restaurant.com to not only pick up a gift certificate, but one that will provide a savings at thousands of restaurants nationwide with more than 30,000 gift certificate options!

Gift certificates are a great idea all year round, but if you're stumped on last minute holiday gift ideas, then you won't want to miss out on the awesome Cyber Monday special they're holding TODAY ONLY!

That's right, throughout today, Cyber Monday December 1st, Restaurant.com is offering a $3 for $25 deal for anyone using the promo code CYBER.

If you've never visited Restaurant.com, you'll want to head to their website to see what local restaurants and small businesses in your area are included (or in areas to which you may be traveling) so that you can get the best deal on your next meal. The site is designed to help diners find and visit local restaurants, get a great value, and, in turn, strengthen the local economy. What more could you ask for?

So go ahead and fill up your cart with $3 gift certificates for stocking stuffers, grab bag gifts, or simply a tasty meal out for your friends, family, coworkers or YOU! We're talking a $25 gift certificate for only $3! But remember that you have to hurry because this offer ends Monday, December 1st at 11:59 pm CST.

This holiday season, show your lucky recipients that you care while also being smart and saving money on dining deals at Restaurant.com. Be sure to visit their website to find out more about their gift cards as well as to find participating restaurants near you. You'll also want to connect with them on Facebook, Twitter, Google+ and their blog so that you never miss their next great deal.

As a member of the Restaurant.com Review Crew, I have been provided gift cards and compensation in order to facilitate my reviews and for sharing this information. However, all thoughts and opinions are honest and my own. 

Score Great Gifts for the Coffee-Lover During the Black Friday Blowout Sale from Cross Country Cafe!

Although there will be piles of electronics and boxes and boxes of toys purchased for holiday gifts this season, that doesn't mean that there aren't other options available.

What about the family member that doesn't need or want a new tablet? How about the grown up child who is past the age of toys and instead could use items for their first apartment? Maybe you have a wonderful friend that has been there for you through thick and thin and you'd like to surprise her with something that would make her eyes light up with joy?

For many of us, the answer is coffee.

I know there are those of you out there that don't drink coffee (whaaa?) but for those of us who do, a gift pertaining to this magical beverage is a gift well-received and well-loved.

So, get to shopping and get to Cross Country Cafe for some great deals!

I have mentioned Cross Country Cafe once or twice or 100 times in the past and, if you're still shopping for coffee somewhere else online, then apparently I just can't help you. This family-owned, nationally authorized distributor of Keurig K-cup coffees and brewers strives to deliver quality coffee (a huge selection!) at incredibly low prices, so why go elsewhere?

But as well as offering awesome everyday deals with great customer service, Cross Country Cafe is the place to go for coffee-themed gifts as well.

They have sampler packs, variety bundles, monthly delivery options, absolutely adorable gift baskets...

...and a massive Black Friday Blowout sale going on RIGHT NOW where you can save even more money!

Every weekday this month, Cross Country Cafe has been posting a new deal and will continue to do so through Cyber Monday, December 1st. Shoppers who are taking advantage of these offers have been enjoying unbelievable savings on great gift items (coffees, teas, accessories, travel mugs and more top sellers) so where have you been??

But if you really want to knock your gift recipient's socks off, then you have to jump on the grand finale blowout sale item which just went live this morning for Black Friday shopping.

It's a great gift and provides everything a coffee lover needs to enjoy their favorite brews morning, noon and night, it's the...

The Keurig K-Cup Brewer and Coffee Starter Package is truly the best! This compilation includes (1) B145 Keurig K-cup brewer, (1) counter top lazy susan storage carousel and (44) Keurig K-cups consisting of a variety of flavors and roasts, which is already a great deal at $180. But right now, for Black Friday, you'll get ALL of these items on sale for $170!

With the holidays right around the corner, head to Cross Country Cafe today to pick up any of their amazing gifts, as there are options both big and small to fit your needs and budget.

And remember, if you're not sure what gift will work best or what flavor your friends and family prefer, then simply opt for a Cross Country Cafe gift card (which can be purchased in any amount between $5 and $400)... and are right now on sale, too!!

Happy shopping!

As a Cross Country Cafe Ambassador, I have been provided with products in exchange for my continued work with their company and affiliate links are included in the above post. The opinions shared are my own and honest and if you really need to see more, click here to see how I roll.

Saving Money Without the Work: Walmart Savings Catcher {#WMTSavingsCatcher}

I shopped savvy using Walmart Saving Catcher, as part of a sponsored post for Crowdtap #WMTSavingsCatcher.

I know that I'm not the only person who looks back at their life five, 10 or even 20 years ago and wonders what in the world I did with all my time. How did I think that I was busy when I didn't even have half of the responsibilities that I do now?

Take shopping, for example. My husband and I used to visit one grocery store for canned goods, cereals and the like. We would then head to another for the best fruits and vegetables and would still stop by one more because they had the meat that he preferred. Similarly, I had all the time in the world to scour the sale ads, clip coupons and drive from store to store to make sure that I was getting the best deal on toilet paper, dish soap and just about every other purchase.

Really?

These days I'm lucky if I make it to one store and manage to have one or two coupons, so the idea of driving around town for a bargain (even though I love a bargain) is laughable.

Therefore, when I hear that Walmart, already known for providing convenience, assortment and savings, has made it even easier to get the best price possible on all of the things you normally buy without having to price compare or ask for price matches, I know that it's time to start using Walmart Savings Catcher!

Everyone already knows that Walmart makes every effort to offer their customers the lowest prices possible and, through roll-backs, an ad match guarantee and more, they have long been known as a retailer that can provide great savings.

However, with the new Walmart Savings Catcher, they have taken things even further (and made it even easier) to pay the very lowest price around... so much so that users barely have to do anything more than shop!

Three simple steps! Just complete your shopping at Walmart as usual, enter your receipt information on their website or scan it in with your phone and their free app, and Walmart does the legwork of comparing the prices you paid with the lowest advertised prices of surrounding competitors. If your purchase price wasn't the lowest, you are refunded the difference back right on a Walmart eGift card!

Could this be much easier?

I love how there is no minimum purchase requirement in order to submit a receipt (I sure did enter in the one that I had for $5.12!) and that users can submit up to seven receipts per week to the Savings Catcher. You can even receive up to a total of $599.99 back per calendar year!

There is a selection of items that are not eligible for receiving money back (the complete list can be found on the FAQ page) but, in general, why would you not submit your receipt to see if you can receive a little extra cash back from your groceries, health and beauty items, household consumables and more?

Let's recap, shall we?

Step 1. Set out on your next shopping excursion to your local Walmart and stock up on diapers, garbage bags, bananas, paper towels, shampoo and lipstick.

Step 2. Finish shopping, pull up the easy-to-navigate Walmart app on your phone and scan in your receipt before you've even left the store. Alternatively, when you've arrived home, head to SavingsCatcher.Walmart.com and enter in your receipt number and the date (remember, all receipts must be scanned or submitted within seven days).

Step 3. Sit back and let Walmart do the price matching work! You'll receive an email confirming that they have received your receipt info and, within 72 hours, you'll get a message letting you know if they have found any savings that are being sent to your reloadable eCard. Next time you are doing your Walmart shopping, go ahead and redeem your free money!

That's it!

So far I haven't gotten rich quick using Walmart's Savings Catcher, but every penny counts... and, when it is multiplied by weeks and months, that adds up to a considerable amount (particularly with the holidays right around the corner)!

Not to mention that the times that I have received messages saying that no lower prices had been found from my submissions just means that I already paid the lowest possible price that I could have, and who doesn't like to be reminded that they're a smart, savvy shopper?

Whether you're a comparison shopper or not, all consumers can appreciate that shopping at Walmart just makes sense with the Savings Catcher. No time spent poring over ads or wasted driving from store to store, just get the best value for your money and then let Walmart do the double-checking so that you can reap the benefits right on your eCard!

If you think this program is as easy and convenient as I do, then make sure to enter the Savings Catcher Share and Win Contest, too! Just enter your email address and you'll be signed up for the chance to win a $2,000 Walmart shopping spree!

Have you tried the Savings Catcher yet? Will you use it on your next visit to Walmart?

Scare Up Some Halloween Shopping Savings with Cash Back from Swagbucks! {$50 Visa Gift Card Giveaway}

Although I do know that there was a time in my life that was pre-internet, I have a hard time remembering it.

The only way to listen to music was on the radio or CD (or, for us older folks, cassette tape)? Shopping was 100% done by visiting stores? And the only way that I could procrastinate and play games during the day was to what? Get out a deck of cards and deal myself some solitaire?

Fortunately, we've come a long way and access to the world wide web has opened up a plethora of options that nearly everyone utilizes daily — watching videos, searching the web, playing games, participating in market research and shopping online, just to name a few.

So, considering that the digital world plays a large role in just about all of our lives, doesn't it make sense that if there was a way to get rewarded for it that we'd want to take part? That's exactly where Swagbucks comes in!

The web's premiere digital dollar, Swagbucks allows users to earn rewards for the activities we're already engaging in, with no strings attached. The next time you're searching the web or doing some online shopping, wouldn't it be great to know that you're adding up earnings on your way to redeeming them for gift cards, coupons or sweepstakes entries?

Even better, right now Swagbucks is participating in one of the year's best Halloween cash-back sales! You can scare up some savings for your Halloween shopping needs this month with up to 14% cash back from some of your favorite retailers including Groupon, Target, BuyCostumes.com, Costume Supercenter, Living Social and much more.

For all purchases over $75, Swagbucks Halloween shoppers will also receive an additional $5 gift card to the retailer of their choice (or cash!) direct to their Swagbucks account.

I don't know about you, but I sure wouldn't mind getting some cash back on the Halloween merchandise that we're stocking up on this month. From macabre masquerades to dreadful decorations (and much, much more), receiving more money back is always a good thing!

If you're already a Swagbucks member, then go forth and save! If you're not, head over to Swagbucks today to sign up so that you can take advantage of this great Halloween Sale — it is only on until October 24th.

Find out more about Swagbucks by visiting Swagbucks.com and connecting with them on Facebook and Twitter.

And, thanks to their generosity, one person will be even more prepared to do some shopping for this holiday and beyond, because...

One lucky person will win a $50 Visa prepaid gift card from Swagbucks!

Entry-Form

A big thank you to Swagbucks for providing a gift card for me as well as for one lucky giveaway winner. The opinions shared are my own and honest and if you really need to see more, click here to see how I roll.

Just Between Friends Milwaukee County Consignment Sale and Twitter Party! {#JBFMilwaukee}

I had a conversation recently with a mom who mentioned looking online to see what the suggested number of outfits was that she should have for her 3-year-old son. First of all, what? Second of all, her internet research told her that the answer was seven. That's all. Seven.

The idea that either of my own children would own only seven outfits made me feel taken aback for a multitude of reasons, namely that I might be a wee bit addicted to buying them clothes. I can't seem to help it! They are both so cute, have nearly opposite senses of style and I can't bring home something for one without getting something for the other...

Before you get too far thinking that I'm out spending a fortune on my kids' wardrobes, here's my secret: I buy nearly everything at a fraction of what it would cost in the store or at all the mall.

That's right! Instead of spending far too much money on overpriced apparel that will be worn for one season or toys that will be passed over when the next fad comes around, I fully say no to wasting money and say yes to Just Between Friends Milwaukee.

If you have never attended a Just Between Friends event before, you're missing out. These nationwide consignment sales help families and communities across the country save money and make money by providing quality items at bargain prices for kids.

No matter if you arrive to shop with designated purchases in mind or simply want to browse to beef up your child's closet or pick up gifts for birthdays, the holidays and more, JBF is a not-to-be-missed sale for everyone. These bi-annual events provide exactly what you need for the upcoming season, whether that be snow pants, soccer cleats, a Halloween costume, dolls and accessories, a jogging stroller or more.

I spent quite a few hours at the JBF Milwaukee sale this past spring and still can't get over the pure enormousness and variety of what was available at rock bottom prices. Every age, every color, every style, every everything!

Need any of this?

Or how about some of this?

There is just no reason to buy retail when these bargains are waiting and I, for one, am giddy with anticipation for the upcoming fall sale. If you're within driving distance to the Milwaukee area (if not, you can find an event near you), then mark your calendar because you're not going to want to miss this!

Held at the Wisconsin Expo Center on the State Fair Park grounds in West Allis, Wisconsin, sale hours include:

Sunday, September 21st 10am-7pm ($3.00 admission)

Monday, September 22nd 10am-7pm

Tuesday, September 23rd 10am-7pm

Wednesday, September 24th 10am-6pm

Thursday, September 25th 10am-5pm (*25% off day!)

Friday, September 26th 10am-7pm (*50% off day!)

Saturday, September 27th 10am-1pm (*50% off day!)

*Items with a star will remain FULL price! Consignors decide which items go 25% and 50%.

But, wait! While you're making your plans on when you want to head over to shop, shop, shop at JBF Milwaukee, come join me to chat about all that is awesome about consignment shopping at the #JBFMilwaukee Twitter Party this week!

Why wouldn't you want to win Front of the Line Passes and a ton of JBF Bucks?! I sure do! Head over and RSVP now and then I'll see you tomorrow at noon at #JBFMilwaukee on Twitter!

In the meantime, be sure to visit the JBF Milwaukee website and connect with them on Facebook and Twitter so that you'll stay in-the-know on all of the amazing happenings and updates from this fantastic event!

This is a sponsored post written by me on behalf of Just Between Friends of Milwaukee. This program is in partnership with Real Mom Media (www.RealMomMedia.com). All opinions are my own.

Just Between Friends Milwaukee County Children's and Maternity Consignment Sales Event {Starts Today}!

When I was pregnant with Big Sister E, I did what many first-time moms did. I read the books, I compared the ratings, I planned and prepared, and I registered for the newest and the best items for her. Nothing less would do, right?

Um, right.

While I try to mostly keep my advice to myself when it isn't warranted, when I'm asked for my recommendations on baby products (both by new and veteran moms), one of my top suggestions (pleadings, really) is to never pay full price and to nearly never buy new.

Why? Just so that your little princess can be the very first one to wear that cute little $30 dress... for all of one day before she outgrows it? Or so that your little man can mash crumbs and dripped veggies into a high chair that has never had any in the crevices before?

Let's face it, kids are expensive. Babies, toddlers, big kids, it doesn't matter, they're all expensive and they are all going to continue to outgrow clothing and shoes or lose interest in toys and games. So, instead of spending your money on overpriced apparel that will be worn for one season or toys that will be passed over when the next fad comes around, it's time for parents and grandparents everywhere to say no to wasting money and say yes to Just Between Friends.

On a mission to help families and communities across the country save money and make money while providing for their families, Just Between Friends is a nationwide consignment sale that provides quality items at bargain prices for kids.

No matter if you arrive to shop with designated purchases in mind or simply want to browse to pick up gifts for birthdays, the holidays and more, JBF is a not-to-be-missed sale for everyone. Think you won't find the baby carrier, pajamas, feeding supplies, clothing, Barbie doll, Halloween costume or video game on your list? Think again.

JBF sales are typically held bi-annually, in the spring and in the fall, so find an event near you today!

As for me, I was like a kid counting down the days until Christmas for this spring's JBF Milwaukee County sale to begin.

Held at the Wisconsin Expo Center on the State Fair Park grounds in West Allis, Wisconsin, sale hours this spring include:

Sun, Apr 6 from 10am-7pm ($3 admission)

Mon, Apr 7 from 10am-7pm

Tue, Apr 8 from 10am-7pm

Wed, Apr 9 from 10am-5pm

Thu, Apr 10 from 10am-7pm (*50% off day!)

Fri, Apr 11 from 10am-1pm (*50% off day!)

*Items with a star will remain FULL price! Consignors decide which items go half off.

If you are in the area, get in your car and GO!

If you didn't believe me when I said that you can find everything, then just take a look at what is there right now, right this very minute just waiting for you to buy:

And that is along with all of this:

Plus so much more — there are literally rows and rows and rows of clothing, strollers, toys, gear and more!

Are you telling me that it makes sense to pay retail prices when there are bargains like this to be had?

1. Fisher-Price Laugh & Learn Learning Home. Retail: $89.99, JBF Milwaukee: $10
2. Adorable Easter dresses and suits from top name brands. Retail: At least $30, JBF Milwaukee: $6
3. Step2 LifeStyle Custom Kitchen II. Retail: $89.99, JBF Milwaukee with large bag of food AND large bag of dishes: $40
4. Playskool Kota My Triceratops Dinosaur. Retail: approximately $279.99, JBF Milwaukee: $50
5. Britax Roundabout. Retail: $199.99, JBF Milwaukee: $30

As for me, I shopped and shopped and am beyond thrilled at what I purchased at a ridiculously-below-retail price. My girls LOVED seeing what I brought home for them!

This photo breaks down into 11 tops, four shorts, three pants, four skirts, three pajama sets, one Gap dress, three pairs of brand new Stride Rite tights, one leotard, one Gymboree hat, Lands' End rain boots, ballet slippers, one nearly-new three season Columbia jacket, Minnie Mouse ears, one My Little Pony, one large bag of assorted LEGO bricks and a new Hello Kitty puzzle.

The clothes are nearly all name brand and in excellent condition and the whole lot cost not much more than if I had bought just the jacket in store. This Gymboree outfit alone was brand new and priced at only $5, when the tag on just the pants said $34.95!

Big, little, boy, girl, new, used, it's all here. Again, if you're in the Milwaukee County area, get over here! If you're not, find a JBF sale near you right now (and, while you're on their website, find out how you can consign your unneeded items to put even more money in your pocket)!

It's really no wonder that every time I find any sort of article or posting about JBF sales, that they are filled with comments like these:

• I live for the twice a year purges to clean my house, make good money and find new treasures for my growing kids.

• I love this sale: it's well organized and you can find GREAT deals. As a consignor, it's even better. Where else can you get THIS MUCH exposure for your stuff? It's great!

• Fabulous sale-- HUGE selection of baby gear, toys, books, shoes, and clothing, and very well organized!!

I love buying things for my kids, but I also love saving money, so it's a no-brainer that I want to take part in JBF's mission to help families across the country shop, sell and save! As an even bigger bonus to bringing home a trunk full of incredible deals, I adore knowing that each JBF sales event donates items and goods to local organizations which help women, children and families.

What more could I ask for? What more could you ask for? A coupon to get in free today? Here it is!

Find out more about JBF Milwaukee County on their website as well as on Facebook, Twitter and on social media at #JBFMilwaukee. For more information on all things Just Between Friends, visit JBFsale.com and connect with them on Facebook, Twitter and Pinterest.

This is a sponsored post written by me on behalf of Just Between Friends of Milwaukee. This program is in partnership with Real Mom Media and all thoughts and opinions are completely honest and my own.

#TASSIMO Cyber Monday Sale!

Now that turkeys have been carved, football has been watched and all-night shopping madness has occurred, today is yet another day of importance in our holiday traditions: Cyber Monday.

It's time to turn to your computer, tablet, phone and more and partake in the biggest online shopping day of the year! And not only because the realization that Christmas is truly right around the corner, but because today is the day that the shopping sales, deals and bargains are not to be missed!

One such offer is from the one and only TASSIMO — have you read my recent TASSIMO review and giveaway? I really love the T55 Single Cup Brewer and the whole family has been enjoying it every day since its arrival!

If you've been thinking about bringing home the amazing quality, taste and convenience that TASSIMO can provide, today is the day to make your purchase!

Just for Cyber Monday, TASSIMO has set up a special offer, making it even more affordable to bring home one of their innovative brewers or many of their delicious T DISCS.

Simply enter the promo code TACYMON3 to receive:

• 20% off T DISCS
• 20% off Brewers + get 2 FREE packages of T DISCS

(This money-saving offer is valid in the U.S. only on TassimoDirect.com and cannot be combined with other offers. Limit 1 coupon redemption per customer. 20% T DISC discount limited to 6 T DISC packages. 20% brewer discount limited to 2 brewers. Offer valid only on 12/2/2013 and ends at 11:59PM PST.)

Happy shopping!

Support Your School with pediped footwear and BOGO at the Week-Long Black Friday Sale!

As much as it pains me to see my kids outgrowing a favorite sweater or cute dress, I find that I have the hardest time accepting it when it comes to shoes.

There's just something about having seen them pull on that same pair of tennis shoes or Mary Janes for so many months that when they utter the words, Mama, these are too small for me now, that I can't help but sigh.

Fortunately, once I've come to terms with saying goodbye to one pair, we always know that we can turn to the exceptional quality, unsurpassed comfort and distinctive styling that we know and love from award-winning pediped footwear for the next pair.

The fastest growing children's footwear brand in the United States, pediped footwear provides options for casual, everyday wear to fashionable, dressy occasions — with new ones being added all the time — for infants to age 7.

No matter what age or stage of development your child is in, pediped has a pair of shoes that will keep their feet safe, healthy and looking good at the same time. We have long loved all three collections that pediped has to offer and have continued to be impressed time and again with the styles, color combinations, Memory Foam Technology and more.

But now we have two more reasons to be excited about pediped!

First, it's time for a sale! pediped's one and only Buy One Get One half off sale of the year kicks off today, November 25th and runs through next Monday, December 2nd. Simply enter the coupon code FALLBOGO13 at checkout to take advantage of this great BOGO!

As well as this great sale, pediped has launched yet another example of their commitment to continued philanthropic efforts — giving back always has and will continue to be a core value for this company!

Most recently, pediped launched 'pediped's Schools', a one-of-a-kind giving campaign where participating schools will receive a check for 10% back on their total attributed purchases of pediped Footwear. Simply encourage members of the school and community to use the school's unique code (which is received upon enrollment), and next spring pediped will send a check for 10% of total purchases!

From their fabulous footwear to their dedication to enriching the lives of children everywhere (the pediped Foundation has donated nearly two million dollars in product and monetary support since 2010!), there's just no question that we've been pleased with all things pediped for many years.

So, just as her previous pair of pediped shoes were getting snug, Big Sister E and I couldn't wait to see what pair would arrive for her to don this fall.

Even though they are listed for boys, the Flex Charleston are Big Sister E's ideal shoes in their uncomplicated design, extreme comfort and, of course, the blue, her favorite color. I love that they feature a suede and canvas upper with the all-natural rubber sole and that the double Velcro straps make for easy-on, easy-off while also keeping the shoes securely in place when worn.

But one of my absolute favorite features of these pediped shoes is that they contain their trademark Flex Fit System. By providing an additional set of insoles, these can be inserted for a more snug fit (they reduce the shoe size by almost half a size) and then removed for room as the child's foot grows. Talk about extending the life of a shoe!

All in all, these shoes are yet another example of why we love pediped and why Big Sister E is excited to pull them on each and every day!

pediped footwear is sold in over 2,500 stores in the United States and 40 countries worldwide with an offering of more than 140 designs for boys and girls between their three lines (available in EU sizes ranging from 17 to 33).

Find out much more and browse the awesome selection of styles at Pediped.com and connect with pediped on Facebook, Twitter, Pinterest and at #pediped on Instagram. Also, be sure to visit their website to to sign up to become a pediped Insider to be the first to know about new product introductions, special promotions and more... and take advantage of their Black Friday BOGO sale on NOW!

Other than the Flex Charleston shoes I was provided by pediped footwear, I was not compensated or enticed to do this review in any way. This post is solely my honest opinion about this company and their products.