Greetings readers. The following are lists of as many storewide sales as possible as compiled by the blog team here at Ebates.

Feel free to peruse and click to your heart's content. The titles of the blogs denote exactly what theme each of the lists has.

Apple Store - Special, one-day Apple shopping event starts Friday! The biggest all year! Don't miss out!

Newegg - Special Black Friday pre-sale, as well as items with free shipping and deep discounts Friday.

J & R Computer World - Special Black Friday pre-sale on movies, music, TVs and more! Even more sales come Friday.

MacMall - Save huge with MacMalls's Thanksgiving Blowout Sale. Save up to 1094% or 44% on Apple products!

Circuit City - Keep discounts and one-a-day sales this Friday at Circuit City's Black Friday sale!

Best Buy - Stay warm and shop in on Friday with Best Buy's great Black Friday deals

Buy.com - A wide variety of products on sale for ridiculous prices starting Friday.

Target - Special online-only sales, in addition to great exclusive Black Friday deals.

Walmart - Online-only sales for kids, electronics, and more! Limited stock!

Abt Electronics - Check out Abt's pre-Black Friday sales and come back for more on Friday

Sears - Special Pre-Thanksgiving sales, as well as Black Friday deals you can view and buy online Friday.

Dell - 50% off Black Friday deals, and holiday laptops starting at $499!

Office Depot - Sneak preview of Office Depot's online Thanksgiving sale. Save big!

HSN - Huge discounts on two-day "PriceBusters" of top-brand savings!

Home Depot - Home Depot's Black Friday savings event starts on Thanksgiving. Check back for huge sales and discounts!

Kmart - 1-Day Thanksgiving sale! Huge sales on electronics, media, and more at Kmart!

PCMall - Smoking Hot Black Friday Deals! Price drops availabe now, and more coming on Friday

Crutchfield - Enjoy Customer Appreciation Week at Crutchfield, and  save on hundreds of holiday specials!

HP Home and Office - Save up to 50% on printers, computers, and more during HP's Thanksgiving Savings event!

Abe's of Maine - Find the absolute lowest prices on the web made even sweeter with Abe's Black Friday Pre-sale.  Save huge!

Alienware - Up to $200 in instant savings on special Alienware systems, with free shipping!

Calumet Photographic - Huge Holiday Sale! From November 26 to December 1, save big on Canon, Nikon, Apple, and more!

Creative Labs - Gobble up the thanksgiving savings with discounts up to $110 on select items! Shop the sale and find out the specials

J and  R Music and Computer World - Start saving now with J&R's Pre-Black Friday sale! One-day sales, $3.99 DVDs, and more!

RadioShack - Special savings with RadioShack's "24 Days of Deals;" starting now! Black Friday's deal is sure to be huge!

Aperion Audio - Special savings on holiday deals and steals!

Mwave - Save huge on Mwave's Double-Take Deals that are at or below cost!

Sixth Avenue Electronics - Don't miss out on Sixth Ave's Black Friday deals. Check their ad out, and come back for the sales!

Greetings readers. The following are lists of as many storewide sales as possible as compiled by the blog team here at Ebates.

Feel free to peruse and click to your heart's content. The titles of the blogs denote exactly what theme each of the lists has.

Ann Taylor - 20% off any full price order with code: EBATES20.

Avenue - $20 off orders of $100+ and sweaters for $15.

Aeropostale - Holiday Blowout: 50%-70% off everything!

Armani Exchange - $50 off all orders of $250+ and free shipping on oders of $100+.

Banana Republic - 40% off select styles.

bebe - Save up to 50% on select items and free shipping on orders of $150+ code: BBJOYOUS.

Bloomingdale's - Big Brown Sale. Take 40% Off select regular-priced items at Bloomingdales.com.

Boden - Spend over $199 get a FREE Beanie Hat & Scarf + Free Shipping!

Blair - 60% off select items and great gifts under $25.

Chadwick's - 25% Off any outerwear,30% off jewelry, mix and match: any 3 items for $99.99.

Coldwater Creek - $20 off orders of $80 or more with code AFL9016.

CoutureCandy - 30% off entire site use code: 30DAY.

dELiA*s - 15% off all orders over $25, use code: DWRAFF.

Eddie Bauer - Gifts at $29.99, $39.99 and free shipping on orders of $100+.

eLUXURY - 40% Off designer sale and free shipping.

Fredrick's of Hollywood - Save $10 off orders of $75, Free shipping on orders of $25+.

Foot Locker - $15 off $75, $25 off $100 or $50 off $200.

JCPenney - 20%-60% off apparel for the entire family, free shipping on orders of 25+ enter: 44FS25

JCrew - Save 20% on orders of $150, 25% on orders of $200, 30% on orders of $250+ use code: TURKEY

Karmaloop - 20% OFF Entire Order at Karmaloop.com. Use Code: CYBER08.

Kohls - 50-60% Off Selected Boots at Kohls!

Lane Bryant Catalog - Take 20% off your order of $100+ at Lane Bryant Catalog Code 941110

Liz Claiborne - 40% off at the Friends and Family Sale with Code GIVE40

Lucky Brand Jeans - Buy One Jean at Lucky and Get One 50% Off 2nd Item!

Macy's - Free shipping + save and extra 15-20% off at macys! Code PERK

New York and Company - $25 Off Your Purchase of $75 or More at New York & Company!

Nordstrom - Save 50% off original prices on select women's apparel and shoes. Shop Nordstrom!

Payless Shoe Source - Holiday BOGO Event - BOGO 1/2 off everything + Free Shipping on orders of $60+!

Rockport Shop - Get 20% off your entire order at the Friends and Family Event

Saks 5th Avenue - Save up to 70% off during the Saks Designer Sale

Shopbop - Spend $500, get $100 off at Shopbop with Code THANKS2U

Shop NBC - Save up to 70% at ShopNBC's Online Only Sample Sale!

SmartBargains -  30% off Dresses and Boots at SmartBargains

YOOX - YOOX sale up to an Extra 40% off Fall Winter for Men, Women and Kids!

Greetings again, good readers. As the holidays come rushing towards us again, I figured I'd start to do a small series for the person who has everything. You know the one I'm talking about: they don't have a lot of space to keep things, but they love buying stuff for themselves. According to my family (though not my friends) I fall into that category. So I figured I could use my firsthand knowledge to help you all to try to give you some ideas for that person who stumps you around this time every year.

My first recommendation is this set of do-it-yourself speakers. They are portable, they are made of eco-friendly cardboard, and they are completely customizable to anyone with some artistic leanings. Available from Urban Outfitters, this set of speakers are small and light enough to take almost anywhere. They come with a set of colored pencils so you can custom design the look of these "speaker boxes", and at just $18.00, even if you only get a handful of uses out of them (despite the fact that they are designed to last), you won't feel like you're throwing your money away. Best of all -- they are so small, that they don't take up a lot of space in a crowded room or apartment. They can even be collapsed down for added portability.

Plus, you get 2% cash back from Ebates, which helps make your own holidays just a little more merry!

The smoky eye look has remained a prominent trend in the beauty sphere for quite some time now. It's an ultra-feminine sultry look that instantly glamorizes your look and can update an old party dress in virtually an instant.

This look that requires some definite makeup application skill, and should not be taken lightly. It appears easy to achieve and somewhat haphazard on the models, but those models are gracing the runways of top designers for Spring 2009 like Matthew Williamson, Caroline Hererra and Nicole Miller to name a few, which means they have professionally trained makeup artists helping them achieve this look. But for those of us who can't afford our own makeup artists, it is probably one of the more difficult makeup tricks to master, save the cat-lined eye. 

Cosmetics powerhouse Stila has removed the guesswork from the smoky eye by putting a step-by-step recording right into the smoky eye palette, essentially bringing the professional makeup artist to you. You press the button and a recording talks you through the five steps of an expert smoky eye using the universally-flattering coordinating shades. This little gem is available at Beauty.com for $40 with 7% cash back. So get ready for all your holiday parties and be prepared for the fresh Spring beauty trends of next year.

Shop On!

While it's true that the best things in life are free (love, good health, happiness), it is also true that the road to getting there will eventually cost money. After all, in today's world of traffic, overdraft fees, and everything causing cancer, it's no wonder one must eventually spend some loot on not going crazy. Whether you find happiness from the mall, a therapist, or from Ben and Jerry, the roads to happiness, love, and health, will always take a toll on your wallet.

Love is my favorite example of something that doesn't stay free for long. Everyone can agree that while the act of falling in love is free, the process of continuation (the relationship) is a costly one. There are flowers to be bought, dinners to be made, and vacations to be traveled. Not to mention birthdays, anniversaries, and everything in between. It's for this reason that my first love is fashion. Although not free, fashion will never break my heart, nor do I have to worry about my clothing giving me an attitude, unless I want them to. My love of fashion first developed around the age of fifteen, much older than your average fashionista. Long before I became obsessed with designers such as Martin Margeila or Alexander Wang, I was driven by fashion that I could afford, regardless of what the label said. As a working teen, money was not plentiful (nor is it as a working adult - so much for that theory) and I used to love shopping at the Urban Outfitter's in Cambridge, MA for great sale finds. There they had an entire basement dedicated to sale items, and on many occasions I walked out with a sweater priced at $1.96 or jeans for $4.95.

These Boyfriend Jeans From Urban Outfitters are just $14.99 marked down from $74. Besides the adorable and slouchy fit, the faded color is meant to be worn with tough, chic black boots. Add a fitted sweater and you're looking like you just stepped out of the movie Singles - another love of mine. As if dressing like a cast member from one of the best cult films of all time wasn't good enough..how's 2% cash back?

Over the weekend, I had the misfortune of running into someone I know while I was wearing my "leisurewear" a.k.a glorified pajamas. I normally take this fashion risk to run to the market up the street, to the coffee shop, or to take my dog out; wherever I go, I generally do not wander beyond a four block radius from my apartment. Usually, I can run my errands in the comfort of my college sweatpants, picked up at the school bookstore freshman year and a hooded sweatshirt. Not the most fashionable ensemble, it is certainly one of my favorites that usually doesn't even make it from washer and dryer back into a drawer. This is not the outfit you want to have a "stop and chat" in on the street, especially if it prompts someone to ask "Are You Sick?" This rather embarrassing incident caused me to reevaluate my loungewear wardrobe. I emptied out my bottom drawer, threw away some of the hideous excuse for clothes and jumped on Ebates to do some leisurewear shopping.

I found these Vince Cashmere Pants at Nordstrom for 40% off, now just $129 with 6% cash back. Normally, I could never justify leisurewear for $100. But when I took a moment to think about how often I would wear them, the price seemed rather reasonable especially considering the markdown. Plus, they are warm, comfortable, and sophisticated - a match for my newfound leisurewear criteria. I figured I could throw these on with a loose fitting sweater and be ready to lounge in style.

It felt great to purge my sleepwear drawer of unnecessary clutter. Because I am so fond of the fashion philosophy that "Less is More" I felt like even this small move made my entire wardrobe more manageable. It was quite fulfilling - especially getting something super luxurious on sale and with 6% cash back.

Shop On!     

Being a self-proclaimed fashion addict, I am always reinventing myself and trying out new styles. Sometimes they work, and sometimes they don't. I am a firm believer that a person's clothing is more than protection from the elements; sometimes they're a glimpse inside their mind. It's not a far stretch to associate the hippie girl with eating organic, or the preppy guy with sports. What you wear and how you wear it is like owning the copyrights to your own unique trademark.

Like most people, my individual style changes as I get older and acquire new experiences. I've been everything from preppy to grunge, to my latest stint as a vintage virtuoso. Being in a more whimsical, natural mood, I've taken a turn off the vintage path, and find myself strolling down bohemian alley. It's a place that I've been before, and like to go from time to time. Being that's it's winter a "boho" look is hard to pull off since the typical accouterments of flowy dresses and breezy tops will leave a girl freezing. I previously thought that this winter would put me into a mod mood filled with lots of black and defined silhouettes, but since a feminine look is what I seek, I'll hold off from the harsh black, and focus my attention of bohemian looks that will keep me warm. This Design History Sweater

from Bluefly represents the oversized drapey nature that is so often found in bohemian dressing, and mixes in a touch of snow bunny. This warm addition to my wardrobe is only sale for just $75, and I'll also receive 3% cash back.
In order to keep with me from looking like I just hit the slopes, I've found these Minnetonka Boots from Piperlime that take my look back to earthy. I'll receive a whopping 6% cash back, on top of the modest price of just $80. These two pieces are not only girly and warm, but they help me keep on the path to evolving my latest look. Getting cash back keeps on the path to saving $$.

So here we go again, dear readers. It is that time again, and this posting is not only the first Free Shipping Friday composed on the new platform, it is the first blog by yours truly written strictly on this new-format blog. But you're here for savings, not for me talking up the blog, so here we go:

Friday, November 21st
- Mikasa has free shipping on all orders $99 or more, this is a great chance to get all those beautiful home decorations and other accents for the holidays, and get them sent for nothing!

Saturday, November 22nd
- Not to be outdone, Macy's also has free shipping sitewide on orders $99 or more. If you're like most of us here at Ebates, you know how easy it is to find $100 worth of great stuff at Macy's, so why not get it shipped for free?

Sunday, November 23rd
- For all you health and beauty buffs, Sephora is offering free shipping on all orders over $25. I'm sure I don't have to remind you that they are part of our Holiday special promotion, and are currently offering 8% cash back, but I guess I just did.

Monday, November 24th
- I feel as if I've talked about this one a few times, before, but Fossil is giving you free overnight shipping on all orders. That's about as good of a free shipping deal as you can find, so it bears repeating.

- For you fashion friendly folks, YOOX is offering free standard shipping on all orders. Now you can get the top designers at lower prices sent to your door at no additional charge.

Wednesday, November 26th
- Continuing in the "keeping you beautiful" vein, Giorgio Armani Beauty has complimentary shipping on any order. Just enter code EBATES11 at checkout, and watch the savings roll in.

- Here's one just for the ladies, or at least I hope so: you can receive free shipping on any order of $100 or more at LaneBryant.com with code 006952785.

- It seems I just can't get away from health & beauty this week: Shu Uemura is also offering free shipping on any order.

Friday, November 28th
- I just had to include one that was a little more friendly to the fellas, so you should know that EastBay - one of the best sporting goods websites out there, has free shipping on all orders of $75 or more.


I will give you folks a word of advice, and it's so important I'm making it bold: As you all know, next Friday is "Black Friday" and not only will I not be in the office, but every store under the sun (and some under the moon) will be having amazing sales. I suspect almost all of the stores with sales will have some manner of free shipping deal, so check in at Ebates and with the individual merchants to see if there are free shipping opportunities where you are shopping.

From today through November 23rd, Ebates shoppers have access to an exclusive coupon code that will take $25 off orders of $125 or more at Gap, plus of course, 6% cash back. Use code Ebates25 at checkout. Putting an extra $25 back into your pocket is pretty exciting, especially when you are shopping an assortment of great gifts for Man, Woman, and Child. This season seems especially good for the Gap; the design and quality is much improved and they really do have a great variety of gifts for everyone on your list - and that will suit every budget.

Shop on!

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

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

I am a big fan of gifts that come ready to be stuffed in a stocking or put under the tree. Despite all the things I love about Christmas and general Yule, I am not a big fan of wrapping. Perhaps it was because I was enslaved by my mother as a child as her wrapping buddy - because "Little Fingers are better at tying bows". Although I cherish those moments, I am never in to mood to sit down and wrap gifts, which is why I love that you can find the perfect gift for anyone that is prepackaged to be enjoyed - straight from store to tree. I feel this way about this Shu Umera 24K Gold Eyelash Curler for $24 with 8% cash back from Sephora. Not only is the Shu Umera Eyelash Curler an essential must-have in any beauty regimen, it is also perfectly pretty plated in 24K gold and ready to give in this decorative red box. I plead: Santa, if you're listening, I really want one.

Greetings dear readers,

I just wanted to give you all a little heads up as to why the blog has been a bit quieter in the last few days than you're used to.  See, at the moment, myself and the rest of the Ebates bloggers have been busy with a few new developments to the website and the blog that will be showing up gradually over the next week or so.

I can't give you exact dates or exactly what changes are in store, but I assure you, it will be a whole new blog experience when we're done with it...

Tantalizing, isn't it?

They say that good things happen to those who wait, and I suppose in many cases that statement is true. Take for example, my choice to wait to update my denim wardrobe. I have been in dire need of a new pair of jeans. I have my three go-to pairs that lately are starting to feel stretched out, worn in, and a little too loved. This can be a great thing for a pair of jeans; when they become almost molded to your body and look nearly as good as they feel. But these jeans, the loved and worn in ones, pass the threshold and move into a pile I fondly call "weekend jeans." I now have a closet full of those.

I was elated to find that Tobi is currently having a 30% off sale on everything site-wide. Usually, during promotions, coveted denim lines become an exclusion written into the fine print. Not today! Everything, except sale items and a couple of other lines (Commes des Garcones, A.P.C., etc.) is included. Shop the best of Women's contemporary fashion lines and also Men's as well. Enter code 30FORYOU at checkout and note that savings last today and Thursday, everything ships for free, and you get 5% cash back.

I am going to reward myself with a practical shopping choice: a new pair of J Brand Jeans - regularly $165 and now $115.50 with 5% cash back. I like the wash of these - it's the perfect balance between light (for fall and winter months) and dark. I also like the slits at the leg opening, the add something different to the style but remain basic enough to wear every day.

 have always been a creature of comfort. While some women wear sky-high heels and confining attire, I prefer low heeled shoes like cowboy boots, or moccasins. I have never been one to suffer for fashion so to say, and my love for all things comfortable often has me dressing in mannish clothing. Designer mannish, mind you, but mannish all the same. My wardrobe is like one perpetual Sunday, with casual flannel shirts, ripped denim, and rugged leather boots. I live in t-shirts such as this one by Kain Label. Any dresses I own hang depressed and alone toward the back of my closet. With Winter being upon us their chance of seeing daylight doesn't seem any more likely, as I hate wearing stockings. Talk about uncomfortable.

It's not that I don't enjoy the thrills and frills of getting all gussied up, it's just that the effort seems overwhelming. Heels, belts, and bobby pins all make me want to run screaming for dear life. Perhaps that is a little over dramatic, but you get the point. It's as if there are two separate personalities fighting for a different look. There's Allie the laid back, no fuss chick. Then there's Allison, the well put together "Lady". The cure for this dual personality would be to hire a very expensive stylist who's job it was to tell me what to wear and how to wear it. Being that this form of mental help isn't covered by my insurance, I have had to take the do-it-yourself approach. At least in this case if one side wins, the other pays for a shopping trip, in which case both sides come out looking victorious. Confused? Keep reading.

After some self-styling therapy in which both sides argued very intensely, I concluded that I could have the best of both worlds by dressing in halves. No, I don't mean walking out of the house half naked, I mean dressing up either half, whether it be the top or the bottom. If, for example, my top half wanted a low key "t-shirt" kind of day, the bottom has to dress up, with say a dainty skirt. This Grace Sun Ruffle Skirt is a perfect example. It's flirty, dainty, and looks great with a t-shirt tucked in. The light silk ruffles of this skirt are a great contrast to my leather boots, making this piece not just pretty looking, but pretty smart as well. Originally priced at $172, this skirt is now only $86. Add 3% cash back, and not only have I satisfied my two quarreling halves, but I have also satisfied the much smaller "Do Not Shop" part of me. I have no idea who this side is, as I don't hear from her much.

What ideas do you conjure up when asked about hippies? Every generation has their stereotype of what a hippie is or looks like, and if you're around the age of my parents, then you would most likely think back to the Summer of Love, The Grateful Dead, or Janis Joplin. If you're from a younger generation, than anyone with dreads shopping at the organic co-op could be a tree hugging, non-showering hippie. Living in San Francisco can blur the line between what is authentic hippie-ism, and what is not. Over the past few years the fashion world has taken the hippie style and turned it into a mainstream, even trendy phenomenon. Luxe design houses such as Gucci have presented billowy floor length dresses, fringe leather pants, and paisley print tunics. Not only has dressing like a hippie looked so good, but it never cost this much either. The days of handmade, hand-me-down garments are all but gone. In it's place is what can only be described as hippie on a hanger fashion.

While I'm a sucker for vintage stores and finding authentic clothing from that bright, colorful era, I do admit there are some things that just can't be found not matter how much you dig, or how hard you try not to pass out from the stench of forty year old clothing. Just when I thought my luck was over, just when I had given up the chance of finding say, a fur vest, in stepped "Haute Hippie." This relatively new clothing line features oversized ponchos, beaded and embellished dresses, and this Maribou Fur Vest. Looking like it was taken off of Janis Joplin's back, this oversized vest is the essence of that era but with a slightly modern twist. Available in two colors it's warm, cozy, and an upgrade from the standard goose down vest. I found this at Nordstrom's where 6% Cash Back rules the day (or holiday season to be exact). Priced at $495, this is definitely an investment piece, but none the less will be the icing on the cake. If you're looking for a simpler way to channel peace and love, Haute Hippie has everything from basic tanks to black leggings. Check them out at Nordstrom and "make love not war".

As Bill mentioned in his post on Friday, the cash back checks are in the mail. In the spirit of the holidays, I would like to encourage you to take that money you have earned and do the right thing: stimulate the economy. Spoil yourself on a modest extravagance before the holidays go into full swing and you have to put yourself last on the list. That is why I am picking up a pair of these ridiculously cute or, cute and ridiculous fleece-lined sweater slippers from the Gap. They are only $29.50 with 6% cash back and they are available in an array of colors to match any pajama or lounge wear you may have. Go festive with red or winter white, winter-chic with oatmeal or tap into your teenage side and choose hot pink. Pick up a pair for someone on your list. You can erase the guilt you may suffer about buying for yourself this close to the holidays; and you can use the rest of your cash back towards gifts. It's the perfect compromise, because, really, you earned it.

I personally envision myself in a pair, wrapping Christmas gifts and listening to holiday music. It sounds like an advertisement for the Gap, but really, it's true. Then I will tempted to wear on a quick errand and ending up in an episode of What Not To Wear, as the hosts are shocked and appalled that as a professional woman who writes about fashion, I could commit such an error of judgment. But really, what's fashion sense without a faux pas or two? I promise, I will not let you down, and will wear these only within the comfort of my home. But it will be tempting.....

Everyone who knows Ebates knows that you can earn cash back on practically everything under the sun. From the delightful chaos of AndreasInc, to the blingin' storefront of Zales, we're one of the best ways to get money back from your everyday spending. But what about the more intangible aspects of your digital life? While Bill pointed out the great cash back opportunities to be had in our magazines category, another overlooked top-earner are our various software merchants tucked away in our Computers category!

While what they sell may not always be obvious by their title, buying direct from the software developers is a great way to both save money through Ebates, and make sure that your money goes right to the people that are responsible for making the software you love. Here are a handful of the 10+ software merchants with their sweet, sweet cash back savings!

Quicken (7% cash back) & QuickBooks (3% cash back)
As Benjamin Franklin once famously quipped, "In this world, nothing is certain but death and taxes." As April 2009 looms just a few months down the road, it's time to start getting your finances back into check. If you aren't on top of your expenditures all year long, how can you be sure all your precious money is going where it needs to be? And how will you be sure you're getting the most back from the government when tax time comes around? Quicken and Quickbooks make a great combo for anyone looking to get their finances in order, and will also save tons of money in the long run on expensive tax services. Start organizing today!

Adobe (6% cash back)
Many of us take for granted how much Adobe's software helps us every day. From the ubiquitous Adobe Flash and Shockwave multimedia programs that make websites like YouTube run, to the amazingly powerful Creative Suite that includes necessities like Photoshop, Dreamweaver, and Premier, you simply cannot deny the powerhouse that is Adobe. Considering that nearly every computer in the world runs at least one Adobe program, this is a great way to save on some everyday purchases with 6% cash back.

Nero (5% cash back)
Like burning your favorite CDs, DVDs, and Blu-Rays? Nero can help you do it better! With software dating back to the very first age of snail-paced CD recorders, Nero has been helping you put your files, movies, music, and more on discs for as long as you've been able to. With their newest Move-It and Liquid TV/TiVo software, they've opened up a whole new world of multimedia potential. Few programs out there match up to their eponymous software bundle, which includes practically every utility you'll ever need for creating disk images, copying discs, rewriting RW discs, and much, much more. Whether you're looking to upgrade to the latest software, or simply make your digital life a little easier, Nero will help you and save you 5% cash back!

Parallels (12% cash back)
Have a mac? Need a PC? Parallels is exactly what you're been waiting for. While Apple's included Boot Camp program is a nifty thing to have to see if you want to dual-boot both Mac and Windows, Parallels is the program that really makes it happen. Allowing you to freely switch between both operating systems at a drop of a hat, instead of having to restart to choose different operating systems and partitions, Parallels actually allows your Apple computer to live up to all of its powerful potential. Try it today; you won't be able to go back to Boot Camp ever again!

Transparent Language (10% cash back)
While there might be myriad language-learning software out there on the market, few match up to the simplicity and effectiveness of Transparent Language. With a wide rage of products ranging from KidSpeak, which lets your child play and learn with fun, native-speaking, foreign characters, to Byki Deluxe 4, which lets you perfect your accent with native speaker sound, test yourself, and take lessons with you on your iPod, Transparent Language is a great way for anyone to pick up over 50 languages. And, with 10% cash back, you'll save a phenomenal amount doing so!

Man! All these great software packages make me wish I had more time to play around with computers! I suppose the eight+ hours I spend poking around the internet would be enough for most, but I just can't get enough. If you can't find the product you're looking for on the list here (or tucked away somewhere else in our Electronics Category), try taking a peek at Nothing but Software; a website that does exactly what it implies. Have a wonderful weekend, everyone! Install something new for me!

Parisian culture is something that I have been obsessed with for as long as I can remember. For anyone familiar with Paris, it's not hard to understand why I would be in love with the city in which love began. Where else in the world are there so many iconic scenes? The winding cobblestone streets adorned with romantic cafes, the open markets ripe with the smell of fresh baked baguettes. Yes, if I was meant to be anywhere in the world it is Paris. However, being that I am très broke, I've had to find other ways to satiate my appetite for all things Parisian. Aside from French cuisine (which I indulge in daily via La Boulange), I have always had a fondness for classic French apparel, such as the beret.

I inherited my love for berets from my mother who wore them in her younger days. Nothing is as simple yet as beautiful than this classic headpiece. Beret's are perfect for all face shapes, and can be worn with practically everything. Not only do they add a touch of European sophistication, but they are perfect for hiding bad hair days, of which I have many. Because I wear them constantly, I have developed quite a collection over the years, and If I ever find myself in need of a new one, I know Urban Outiftters will have me covered (no pun intended).

While many stores sell basic knit hats, Urban Outfitters carries an extensive collection of berets from classic wool to modern slouchy knit. This White Knit Beret is soft, ultra feminine, and comes in 7 colors. At just $24, it's a cheap way to accessorize. Keeping in mind that it will take cash, and not day dreams, to pay for my first trip to Paris, I'll be using the 2% cash back toward my traveler's fund. If only I could buy my morning croissant through Ebates. The cash back would be enough to book a first class flight, and instead of a cubicle, I would be writing this blog from a cafe on the Champs Elysee. Hey, a girl can dream.

With all the uncertainty involved with the harmful effects of chemicals found in traditional antiperspirants and deodorants, I have undergone a personal quest to find an all-natural alternative that actually works, meaning, keeping me fresh all day. I have tried many different brands and types, all of which have not lived up to my high standards. Unwilling to concede and accept the fact that a natural deodorant couldn't work as well as a chemically made one, I have scoured the ends of the health and beauty world to find a fair substitute.

I fell in love with L'Occitane Aromachologie Purifying Deodorant, available at the I very reluctantly moved on from this product and purchased Aubrey Organics Natural Roll-On Deodorant for $7.69 with 7% cash back from Drugstore.com. This product is completely natural, contains potent anti-oxidants, goes on clear and is not tested on animals. It is also biodegradable and recyclable. My verdict is that this brand is "so far so good." I feel great about using a product that is great for my body and environmentally conscious too. If you are going to toss your deodorant and go the au natural route, take note that it does take some time for your body to adjust to a new product before you can observe the benefits of a natural formula. And on a packaging note, it is quite cute. It also smells good without being overpowering and is not sticky  so it makes for a fantastic unisex brand.

Greetings again dear users, and welcome to yet another installment of Free Shipping Friday.  As always, if you wish to bypass my witticisms about each store and would rather consult the list, just click on our pal Max Cash or the Free Shipping Delivery Truck.  But, for those of you who appreciate a little extra Bill in your day, I personally thank you and say "Let us get on with the savings!"

Saturday, November 15th
- Bealls has free shipping on any order amount if you use the code FREESHIP. Restrictions apply, though if free shipping comes on any order amount, I can't imagine what the restrictions could be.

- In our earth-friendly culture, Gaiam recommends that we save gas by shopping online, and they will reward that favor to mother earth by getting free shipping on any and all orders over $45 with code AFGAS. Unfortunately, mother earth doesn't extend her love to oversized items. You still have to pay full shipping on those.

- The HBO Store is offering free shipping on all orders over $60. So, if you want to make sure you order the Sopranos Box set before it goes out of stock, and get it shipped for free, do it before the end of the day on Saturday, or else you will be out of luck!

Sunday, November 16th
- If you love your body, treat it to something nice. We suggest going to Kiehl's, where they will ship any and all of your purchases for free, provided those purchases total more than $45. Just use coupon code KHLSDAY08 and give your skin a big hug for me. If I gave it a big hug myself, I might have a lawsuit on my hands.

Monday, November 17th
- As the weekend ends, so does the chance to earn free shipping on all orders over $25 from L'OCCITANE. They're natural, they're organic, they're shipped free. After the 16th, only two of those statements will still be true.

- For the vinophile that you know and love, The Wine Enthusiast is offering free shipping on their line of EuroCave Wine Refrigerators. If you're going to spend money on a great product like this, and give yourself the gift of the ability to store up to five hundred bottles of wine at cellar temperature, then you'd damn well be getting it shipped for free. Or shipped for free to me, as a gift. Thanks in advance.

Tuesday, November 18th
- Drugstore.com has free shipping on all non-prescription orders over $25. They also have increased cash back for the holidays, so you'll be saving money left and right.

And, one more early heads-up... through Monday the 24th, you can get free overnight shipping on all orders at FOSSIL. I love pretty much everything they sell there, and I love free overnight shipping almost as much. It's a win-win! Everything is coming up Bill.

For those of you who need, and have not yet procured, new outerwear for yourself or any member of the family, wait no longer than the Outerwear Sale at Old Navy. For one week only, save up to 50% on all outerwear. This includes vests, quilted parkas, pea coats, leather jackets, and blazers. It is a fantastic time to stock up and save, or buy a gift or two for anyone on your list. Much of the merchandise that is currently on sale will return to regular price after the week's super savings promotion is through, so now is your chance to impress yourself with your savvy shopping capabilities and keep the whole family both warm and looking sharp for less.

Find Men's quilted "frost free" jackets for only $39.75, Women's long coats for $44, Kid's jackets for under $20, and, of course, all with 6% cash back.

Look to Old Navy for amazing prices, one stop shopping for the whole family, and stylish bargains available in extended sizing.

Shop on!

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

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

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

1. Save water with an AM Chrome Hand Held Showerhead 

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

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

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

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

Sorry I have been quiet lately, but there has been a lot going on behind the scenes of the Ebates blog, which I can only let you speculate about.

Still, it wouldn't be a Wednesday for me if I didn't let you know about some random merchant, and today, that is Getzat.com. It's a one-stop solution for all your poster needs.

Have a daughter who wants a Twilight movie poster? Get it at GetZat. Have a son who is almost as Batman-obsessed as me? Find all the best Dark Knight posters at GetZat.  Cool hipster want some wall art? Get them this Fear and Loathing in Las Vegas print at GetZat! 

Get the picture?   Now Get Zat!!!! (with 12% cash back!)

Love it or hate it, the leather jacket is like an icon in the fashion world. Always in style and always in season, a beautiful leather jacket can compliment every outfit. This season, leather is especially "in", mostly the trend is represented by sophisticated takes on the motorcycle style leather, in the spirit of "biker meets the runway." But if the biker design is a little to rough for your sense of style, there is a softer way to get the look. And you want the look for less, look no further than the Ebates blog, where, we are always looking out for you and your pocket book. Take this fabulous leather jacket on sale at Newport News for only $129 with 3% cash back. I have seen jackets of the same style for at least six hundred dollars! This is a chic, genuine leather jacket that is fully lined and super-stylish. Setting you back only $129, this is a major steal!

I am always amazed about the versatility of certain garments when I find items  that can be appropriate for me, layered with a cute top underneath and skinny jeans and for my mom with a slim fitting cashmere sweater or turtleneck and a tailored pant. And for $129 with 3% cash back, I can afford to splurge on the both of us for less than I would pay for one elsewhere.

P.S. Looking for the perfect sweater to layer under this jacket? Look no further than JCrew, where all sweaters are currently 20% off (enter code SWEATERS at checkout). I love this Merino Melanie Crewneck, now just $47.60 with 2% cash back. It is available in a variety of vivid and neutral colors and it is the perfect sweater to throw on and go. Put on your new leather jacket layered over this sweater, a pair of jeans, trousers, or a skirt, and you are stylishly set for day or night. 

So you have two items that you can wear a million different ways for a combined total of $176 with cash back....

One of the many perks of working at Ebates is having a bag company as one of our neighbors. One of the even better perks is when that bag company has a sample sale, thus allowing me to buy a $350 leather bag for just $75. Such was the case yesterday when a group of bag obsessed Ebates employees invaded the design studio of G.Hensler. After rummaging through piles of supply leather bags, I found the perfect over-sized clutch that comes with a long strap for multiple uses. My find was so great that I envisioned wearing it for years to come, passing it down to my daughter, and then boring her with the details of how I found it.

Being excited to use my new bag, I began dumping out the contents of the heavy burden I call a purse, which I had been carrying around for the past few weeks, and sorted through what I needed versus what was there. Strewn on the floor in front of me were enough bobby pins and elastics to start a war, a magazine and a book, two lip glosses, a wallet, and, finally, the three sets of keys I carry. Like I said before...crap. I call this process a bag detox, and I recommend it every week as insight into the "crap" we ladies carry on our poor shoulders every day.

Not wanting to stuff my new love with past hoarding habits, I grabbed only what I would use today. Anything else would be extra baggage, and I certainly don't want to turn into a bag lady. Besides keys and phone, my Johnny Farrah wallet is a godsend and truly something I cannot live without. It features two zip compartments, and often doubles a clutch. I've had it for years, and the above Cole Haan Wallet from Bloomingdale's is an exact replica, with two zip compartments and plenty of space. Saving 20% and earning 3% cash back makes this cheaper than what I paid. Another "can't-live-without" item is my Dior Lip Maximizer from Sephora. The sheer color and plumping effect do wonders for my lips, especially during the winter. Despite not being a beauty guru I still try my best to not look like a drag queen. With 8% cash back I won't look broke either.

When it comes to handbags I'm a firm believer that less is more. While some may rationalize that spending $40 will save you hundreds as compared to spending $400, keep in mind that a $40 bag will never be as special or as durable like it's $400 counterpart, making it disposable. Once a bag becomes disposable, another one is bought in it's place, continuing the cycle, and costing you way more in the long run. Having mastered the art of buying timeless classic handbags such as this Marc By Marc Jacobs Bag from Sak Fifth Avenue, I suggest saving for one great piece, instead of wasting money on countless bags that will never truly move you. This slouchy distressed leather bag is timeless and will take you through decades of fashion. You'll receive 3% cash back, and look great doing so.

Until Thursday at 11:59 PST, enjoy 30% off all full priced merchandise at Shopbop! This excludes jewelry and accessories, however all clothing, outerwear, and shoes are fair game! Enter code EARLYGIFT at checkout and watch the full price melt away. It is a fantastic time to save on gifts for every fashion-lover on your list and a few winter-wardrobe necessities for yourself. Plus, you never pay shipping for standard delivery, and will get 3% cash back!

What an appropriate time to say: Shop on!

If there is one item in the wardrobe that can take an outfit from work to evening, or from blah to amazing, it is the clutch. When you think philosophically about it, it is truly remarkable that a little handbag without straps could transform an outfit so easily, but it is true. Nothing says city-chic quite like a clutch, and it is an easy item to accessorize a jeans and t-shirt, your favorite little black dress, or virtually any ensemble you can create making an outfit feel pulled together and very feminine. You can tote around everything you need and look fabulous. What more is there to ask for?

 

A perfect dressy clutch to spice up any formal wear or to make a more casual outfit evening-appropriate is this Nine West Precisely Gathered Clutch on sale for $39 at Piperlime with 6% cash back, which makes a total savings of 43%. For less than $40, you can buy this cute clutch and transform existing outfits in your wardrobe, making them feel fresh and new. Plus, it will be the perfect and stylish addition to your holiday wardrobe. The classic style and feminine shape will stay current for seasons to come.

If you want to invest in a clutch that can be both dressy and casual, pick up something like this Rag & Bone Leather Clutch on sale for $178.50, 30% off at Shopbop with 3% cash back. This clutch is made of fine leather with accent gold-tone hardware and is great quality for the price. The leather will only be more beautiful with age and the design will hold up through many a night out. It is the perfect clutch to have if you want just one and would like the option of wearing it out for lunch or to be tres chic and use it on a shopping trip.

Get shopping, earn some cash back and be ultra-chic in no time!

As great as the holiday season can be, it's also incredibly stressful. I like to take the Scarlett O'Hara approach and "Think about it tomorrow", however blowing off the inevitable only gets me into trouble. Every year I rush around at the last minute with next to no money and a laundry list of people to buy for. The month of December alone is like one manic depressive whirlwind full of highs and lows. The Christmas windows and smell of fresh fir trees filling the crisp air is tainted by the dwindling bank account and expensive airfare.

Being a little wiser and not as greedy, I have decided this year will be different. Instead of blowing off shopping until the last second, I've already started the process, and not just for me, but others as well. Flying back home for the holidays means there are even more people to buy for, including my three best friends. Showing up empty-handed while wearing my shiny new Michael Kors boots would not not to go over too well, and because they are my best friends, they wouldn't hesitate to call me out on my selfish behavior. So although my conscience has prevailed, I now have the daunting task of shopping for three of the most important people in my life. While I could always buy them beauty gift sets, or little knickknacks, I feel something more serious and heartfelt is in order. Something that says "I love you" even though I am terrible at correspondence.
 
While browsing at Ice.com (yes, for myself) I came across this Sterling Sliver Charm Bracelet. Normally I think of charm bracelets as tacky, but the idea of all four of us wearing the same bracelet adorned with charms we each hand picked for one another was endearing. It's also cost effective, since I never have to worry about spending money on anything but a single charm. This bracelet is priced at just $45, and by shopping with Ebates I'll save an additional 20% plus receive 8% Cash Back. That's like getting all three of them for the same cost as one at full retail. I've heard of two for one deals, but three for one? That's unheard of.

As far as charms go, Bloomingdale's has a great selection of charms ranging from simple to funky like this Opera Glasses Charm. Aside from being fun, this charm has a richness to it and is made from 14k gold plated brass. Crystal accents add instant glam and won't look tacky like most charms do. Until the 16th of November, Bloomingdale's is having their Friends and Family sale, so be sure to add FANDF to your checkout for a savings of 20%. As if the sale wasn't enough to cause merriment, 3% Cash Back is sure to get me into the Christmas spirit. I'll need the lift especially since there are only....

When it comes to e-commerce merchants, few places garner as much name recognition as eBay. As the front runner (and leader) of online auctions, eBay has surely stood the test of time over the past thirteen years. As one of the most popular destinations on the web, what can I say about eBay that you haven't heard already? After all, it's the only place on the web where you can find literally anything your (pure) heart desires. From dentures and die-cast replicas, to "depression blue" butter covers, there's nary a thing you cannot find with time, patience, and eBay at your disposal. However, there is one important factoid that many of our readers might not have noticed just yet: eBay is now on Ebates!

With 1% cash back on almost everything under the sun, eBay and Ebates work together miraculously to help you save money on practically everything you could ever need in your life. Why buy anything ever again without getting at least 1% cash back? It's important to note that while Ebates offers cash back on well over 90% of the categories listed on eBay, a few specific areas are strictly off-limits for cash back. These categories are simply too cumbersome to handle, and include:

• Business and Industrial
• eBay Motors
• Real Estate
• eBay Giving Works or other purchases that Benefit charities or non-profit organizations
• Gift certificates

Since the majority of these five categories are rarely used by most "average" eBay users, you can feel free to shop with reckless abandon in almost every one of eBay's million-plus auctions, buy-it-now storefronts, and more. So, what are you waiting for? Go grab that antique nightstand you've always wanted; you can rest easy knowing you're getting the best deals with 1% cash back that you never would have expected just for using Ebates. How great is that?

According to a economic barometer fondly called "The Lipstick Index" (reference a New York Times article printed Sunday) reports that during the last three months, cosmetic sales have been on the rise despite the sluggish economy. Meaning in a bad economy women still splurge on little "pick me ups", a.k.a. lipstick and cosmetics, when they can not always justify other, pricier things. Regardless of whether that is true for you or not, personally speaking, I am always spending my money on both, much to the chagrin of my savings account.

The real exiting aspect of the article is when they list the top 41 lipsticks, from merely  $1.99 to over $50, so there is something to splurge on for every budget. What the article failed to mention, was that most all of these best selling lipsticks are available though Ebates with cash back! To see the entire list and read the article, click here.

Here is our list of the Top ten available with the most cash back!

1. Pur Minerals lipstick in Raspberry Quartz, $15 with 10% cash back.

2. Clinique Long Lasting Shine lipstick in Bamboo Pink,$14 with 4% cash back.

3. Avon Beyond Color Plumping lip color in Divine Wine, $8 with 5% cash back.

4. Dior Addict High Shine lipstick in Casual Beige, $25 with 3% cash back.

5. Nars lipstick in Dolce Vita, $24 with 7% cash back.

6. Rimmel Lasting Finish lipstick in Coffee Shimmer, $5.29 with 7% cash back.

7. Bobbi Brown lip color in Brown, $22 with 4% cash back.

8. Chanel Rouge Hydrabase lipstick in Enigma, $27 with 6% cash back.

9. YSL Beaute Rouge Volupte lipstick in Sweet Honey, $29 with 6% cash back.

10. Smashbox Photo Finish Lipstick in Delightful, $22 with 4% cash back.

Shop on, gorgeous!

Welcoming Bobbi Brown to the list of Ebates merchants in the Heath and Beauty category is equatable to inviting the Poet Laureate to a reading. Bobbi Brown is one of the major innovators who transformed the health and beauty industry into what we know today. She was one of the first (after Max Factor, the man who is said to have coined the term makeup) makeup artists turned Beauty entrepreneurs who helped build the empire that has since taken women by storm. Bobbi Brown's name is on some of the industry's best products ranging from skin care to color to makeup brushes. Now, all of this is available to you, with 4% cash back.

Make sure to check out the looks and tips guide, which features "Get the Look" how-tos and tips on picking the right foundation and my personal favorite: tips on grooming the perfect brow. Also, you can visit the new holiday gift guide which includes special editions of best sellers along with new favorites. You can also chat with an artist live while shopping on the site, so you do not lose the expert advice, but you get to shop in the comfort of your own home.

Enjoy free shipping on orders of sixty dollars or more with code "Ebates1" and you'll also get two free samples with every order. Shop on!

It's no surprise that around the holidays, stores start throwing some of the biggest and best sales of the entire year. The up side is saving boatloads on holiday shopping. The down side is most sales can be very specific. Saving 30% off raincoats or 10% off beauty products can be fantastic - if that's what you're shopping for, but what happens when you don't need new make-up despite how enticing the free gift looks? Nothing happens. No sales, no savings, no nothing. All you end up with is more waiting time for a chance to save on what you really want.

Bloomingdale's doesn't think you should wait anymore.

Starting today and running through November 16th (Sunday) Bloomingdale's is offering their friends and family savings of 20% off everything from outerwear to shoes, home decor to cashmere! In fact, Bloomingdale's Friends and Family discount applies to sale items too, saving you even more cash! When checking out, enter code FANDF and viola! the savings is yours! If that wasn't enough, by shopping with Ebates you'll receive 2% cash back, making you the happiest shopper alive. Although we've never met, as a cyber friend, I suggest heading to Bloomingdales for not just an amazing selection, but amazing savings too. After all, isn't that what friends are for?

Most adults who partake in teeth staining activities say, drinking coffee, red wine, tea, or anything else that can tarnish your teeth have a moment when they look in the mirror and realize that their pearly whites are neither pearly nor white. Keeping you smile up to par is especially important if you are planning on being in photographs for a wedding or Holiday cards.

Either way, maintaining a healthy white smile can be just as important as the makeup you use or the clothes you wear. Although, beware of "glow in the dark" white teeth, they are both unnatural looking and frighteningly unattractive.

Professional whitening and regular dentist visits are always recommended, especially if you have really tough stains or desire to make your teeth dramatically whiter. However, at-home kits and whitening toothpastes can do the trick for brightening your smile. There are many whitening kits on the market. Most of the drugstore toothpaste brands have some kind of whitening kit, usually in the form of strips. A main complaint I share with people who have used brands of whitening strips is that they are slimy and slip off your teeth, preventing the whitening solution from really penetrating stains. According to Real Simple Magazine, in a feature on the best teeth whiteners on the market,  Rembrandt Whitening Strips stay in place, are not slimy, and make your teeth much whiter in just five days. Rembrandt's Strips are currently on sale at Drugstore.com, for $19.99 with 7% cash back. You save $4 off the listing price. The strips are much cheaper than some of the others and boast great results in a limited amount of time.

To maintain a white smile after using the strips, without giving up your coffee, I recommend these GO SMILE Touch Up ampules. For $39 at Beauty.com with 7% cash back, you receive a kit of thirty breath-freshening, stain erasing mini whiteners that are easy to use and touch up on the go. These are perfect to carry around in your purse or briefcase, and can prepare you for a spur of the moment photo-op, a hot date, or a public speaking event. I tried these over the weekend, they work wonders! Plus, you can shop Beauty.com and partner site Drugstore.com, pay one flat rate for shipping and get both delivered to your door in just a few short days.

Keep your smile sparkling and your teeth healthy with a set of GO SMILE Whitening Toothpastes for AM and PM.  The set of two, sells for $30 at Sephora with 8% cash back. These whitening, good for your teeth toothpastes have aromatherapy benefits to calm for PM and energize for AM. They have essential oils, naturally hydrated silica which safely polishes away stains to maintain your white smile, and the doctor recommended amount of fluoride to prevent decay and strengthen tooth enamel. These are definitely worth the little splurge because they taste great and contain healthy and natural ingredients, keeping your smile bright after all the work you have done to whiten! Compared to a professional whitening system, this is a great way to get results and save money while earning some extra cash back shopping through Ebates! You don't see that at your dentist's office.


So before you buy that statement red lipstick or take holiday photos, brighten that smile and give yourself a mini-makeover and boost of confidence for less. Shop on!

As a former high school teacher, bar goer-outer, and owner of both a Facebook and Myspace page, I have seen literally thousands of pictures taken at arm's length. Chances are, if you're under thirty, you've been there yourself: you want to get a picture of yourself or you and your friends, and someone has to hold the camera at arm's length and estimate where everyone is. Invariably, you either end up with a big chunk of arm in the picture, or half of a head missing.

If this has happened to you, you need the telescoping digital camera arm.

Just look at that beauty: compacted, it collapses down to a mere nine inches, but at full length, it is just over three feet long. It also works well for raising a camera above a crowd for those ever-important distance shots as well. Just follow this link, and search for the word "Xshot". It's under $20 and you will get 2% cash back.

After all, don't we all want to be as happy as this guy?

Sometimes writing this blog can be a bit tricky, and I wonder if those reading it (you) are really as amazed as I am by all the deals and fantastic items to be found at Ebates. While I know we all have different likes and dislikes when it comes to clothing, everyone likes to save money. It's with this in mind that I bring you not just a good sale, but a great sale. In fact, it's not the amount that makes this sale so important, but the length. For those of you with less than angel minds what I'm talking about is Couture Candy giving 30% the entire site for the entire month of November!

What's the reason behind this? It's the same reason that allows Ebates to give you 12% cash back - because we love to see a great deal. One such great deal are these retro patent leather Bailey Pumps. If you were ever looking for the perfect heel to go with a basic white tee and jeans, these are it. The elastic strap keeps them casual, but the shiny patent leather makes them fancy enough to wear with a dress. Originally priced at a modest $150, with Couture Candy's month long sale you'll get them for $105 and receive $12 cash back!

Gift giving for the Holidays is truly about celebrating the season and letting someone know that you are thinking of them. This warm and fuzzy sentiment can often be trumped by feelings of stress, financial worry, and disgust for your fellow shopper. Ebates would like to keep those warm and fuzzy feelings at the surface of your sensibility and make holiday shopping easy and even pleasurable. We want to put that holiday cheer back into the holidays! Please note that Holiday cheer equals extra cash back, easy shopping guides, and expert shoppers (aka Ebates bloggers) to guide you and steer you to smart shopping choices. And yes, I am one of those people who loves the Holidays. Believe me, my holiday spirit will only make the shopping experience easier for you because the best deals on the best gifts can only come from a true Holiday lover.

Want to give a little luxe for less? Pick up a beautiful costume jewelry-inspired Yves Saint Laurent cocktail ring from Saks Fifth Avenue for $195.00 with 3% cash back. Under $200 for a fantastic piece of jewelery from one of the most (I will argue) influential and noteworthy design houses in fashion history. Not her taste? Shop for other pieces in the Yves Saint Laurent jewelry collection that are all priced under $550. I am also a big fan of this Horn Bangle, for $325. Shop soon, these items are in high demand and limited edition.

Trust me, she will be excited when the box reads Yves Saint Laurent.

Out of curiosity, how many of you out there are reading this post right now on a desktop PC? Now, be sure to raise your hands high so that I can('t) see you. Alright! What does that make, twenty of you? That's more than I expected. As you've probably noticed, desktops aren't really the most in-demand item out there for most, but in my opinion, they're still an important item that everyone should own. Why? Well, in addition to  having a home workstation and backup for all your files, desktop computers make wonderful media centers to store all of your music, movies, and games on. With a little finagling, even the most technologically-challenged can have a tiny little PC discreetly set up in the living room for everything they can imagine.

Even if you do have a bulky old PC set up at home, a mini PC like the ones sold by Shuttle will save you serious amounts of desktop space and work perfectly as inconspicuous media centers. The Shuttle SG31G2 pictured to the right is sold from Newegg as a "Barebones PC": an incomplete computer waiting for you to put on your finishing touches. While other companies want to sell you a finished product that may not be exactly what you're looking for in a computer, barebones PCs come with a few basic parts and leave the rest up to you. Included is a power supply, case, and a motherboard. Up to your discretion is your optical drive, RAM, hard drives, graphics card (optional) and your computer's processor. This means that you can spend as much, or as little, on your components as you'd like, and end up with a finished product that is exactly what you want. Of course you'll want to make sure you buy compatible parts (which can be found at the Shuttle website), but most newer components will work just fine. If you look around the reviews on Newegg, you'll get an idea for what components have worked well for people in the past.

So how does this all translate to a minuscule media center that will suit all of your needs? Simple! After picking out all your components (like a terabyte hard drive, that Blu-Ray drive from yesterday, and an Intel dual core processor), hook the computer up to your HDTV using its VGA port, DVI port, or by buying a DVI to HDMI cable (sold separately). This will display your normal monitor-sized image full screen, allowing you to watch your downloaded movies, TV shows, and more like you would on your regular TV! Toss in a TV tuner card, and you even have a homemade DVR for cheap! Wow! All with impeccable style to boot.

Now, I know many of you out there are a little intimidated by the internal thingamajigs lurking under your computer's chassis. I don't blame you! Until you really get your hands in there and tinker around a bit, it's hard to see how simple inside computers really are. Aside from the few slightly fragile components like RAM and video cards (which easily pop in place with a bit of pressure), internal components will easily withstand the bumblings of a novice. Once you get in there, installing components is as simple as putting together legos: you take your part, find the requisite cable, and plug it into place.

Technology is all about trying new things and wandering outside of your comfort zone, so consider building a PC that is perfect for you this weekend. Whether you're building a system for $500 that blows your prior desktop out of the water, or just want a little something to stream media from another computer to your living room TV, these little Shuttle PC's make a wonderful addition to any nerd's home. The fancy SG31G2 pictured above is even $30 off right now from Newegg, so grab yours today and get to building!

It is a common myth that chocolate is bad for you, and it is even said that  chocolate is the culprit for  bad skin flareups like acne. Au contraire, myth. The truth is that chocolate is actually good for you!  Spread the word and the joy by giving someone on your list (or yourself) the gift of good taste and a container of "Health By Chocolate" Beauty Bars from Norm Thomson for $27.95 with 1% cash back. These "blissfully delicious" individually wrapped dark chocolate bars are packed with beneficial antioxidants and minerals and were formulated by a holistic dermatologist.

Choose from two kinds; either Beautiful Skin Bars, packed with Omega 3/6/9-rich cranberry seed oil and lutein, which helps fight free radicals. These bars also contains the disease-fighting antioxidant lycopene, and astaxanthin—a skin protector that's more powerful than vitamin E. One a day is the most delicious "medicine" ever!

Or, choose the Healthy Bones Bars with orange-flavored rich Swiss chocolate delivers sea algae-based calcium brimming with natural trace minerals and a natural vitamin K/D blend to support bone health. These amazing bars give a whole new meaning to eating right!

All talk about the health benefits of chocolate has me wondering; would it be bad to give someone both? Someone like myself?

Nothing is sweeter in life than unexpected surprises. Calling the cell phone company and actually getting service from the customer service representative is definitely an unexpected surprise. Coming home to flowers and a tasty dinner is another great surprise. At work, surprises are usually more of an "uh oh" than a "yay", or at least that's what I'm told by friends who daylight as office drones. Here at Ebates, surprises are more like cake in the kitchen, or my favorite (and less fattening) surprise, new stores! Finding new stores is like biting into a piece of chocolate and realizing there is no gross cherry filling.

That, however, is entirely different blog all together.

While searching out amazing coupon deals for the Ebates newsletter, I came across three new stores that have become my new "go to" sites. The first is the independently owned Hayden-Harnett. Created by designer Ben Harnett and Toni Hacker, Hayden-Harnett is the place to shop for new and inspiring design. Famous for their sumptuous leather handbags, Hayden-Harnett carries everything from adorable key chains to dreamy dresses like this silk Plume Wrap Dress (right). Available in two colors, it's not only gorgeous, but your chances of walking into a restaurant and seeing it on someone else are rare to none. That alone makes this dress priceless, but 4% cash back makes this dress my new obsession.

The second store to make me go gaga and start rethinking my need for electricity, is Mahattanite. Not only do they carry some of my favorite brands like CC Skye and Mackage, they also have a huge sale section for the moment of clarity when I realize I do in fact need electricity. This silk dress by Harkham (yes I know it's another dress, but what can I say? I'm in denial about winter) is 50% off the original price. It features a kimono cut and has a bold flower print throughout. The dark palette makes this dress extremely versatile, and it really is appropriate for any season. If that wasn't enough to get excited about, 3% cash back should have you blissfully shopping in the city that never sleeps. Well, at least the online version.

My last surprise for the day (besides realizing my lunch was growing fur in the refrigerator) was coming across the oh so fun site Queen Bee Girls. When I first clicked on the site, I envisioned images of honey pots and cute bees printed on children's clothing. Needless to say I was way off. Queen Bee Girls is the place where women who love designers like Diane Von Furstenberg, but can't (or won't) pay the designer price will find this floral Soni Tank on sale for just $79.50. That's a savings of $185! The sale selection at this site is so great, it's impossible not to find something you can't live without. I don't know about you, but something I can't live without is cash, and shopping at this site will save me boatloads. Right now receive 25% off a minimum purchase of $100. Spend $200 and get $50 off, and so on, and so on. In case that's not incentive enough you'll also receive 3% cash back. Such wise shopping will turn you into a Queen Bee, an Ebates Queen Bee, that is.

This season, Plaid might be the most versatile fabric du jour. Really, what is there not to love about plaid? It's classic, most often warm, easy to wear, and, this season, just about everywhere. Everywhere you look, you'll find plaid jackets, blouses, and even mini-skirts. Wear this trend by tapping into memories of 90's grunge with added sophistication. Blocking out those memories? Think instead of a regal "traditional countryside" look with a modern-twist.

This look is not dowdy or casual. In fact, it is quite sharp and definitely boasts a refined, pulled-together look. I just took advantage of my first Holiday cash back increase and picked up this fabulous red tartan Plaid Belted Coat at Gap, with 6% cash back. This new arrival is currently part of an outerwear promotion at Gap and therefore 30% off, making this warm wool blend number just $96.50. The tie waist detail and three-quarter sleeves add a feminine sophistication to contrast the plaid. It will be the ideal accompaniment to all my holiday festivities and a great throw on for a chilly morning walk to the coffee shop. Plus, as devoted readers may have noticed, I love to layer, and the feminine three-quarter sleeves will make layering effortless and bulk-free.

Too much tartan for you? Accessorize with plaid details, like the a lightweight wool scarf, in fresh accent hues. Try this Lulla Open Weave Plaid Scarf for $49, with 6% cash back at Nordstrom. Or add some plaid to your footwear, like these boots courtesy of Allie.

Hello again dear users, it's another hectic day here in Ebates land, so I'm going to get right down to brass tacks (which I'm sure you can get shipped for free from somewhere).

Saturday, November 8th
- Kmart has free shipping sitewide with no restrictions

Sunday, November 9th
- White House Black Market is also offering free shipping on all orders through the weekend.

Monday, November 10th
- Bellacor has free shipping plus up to 50% off on great deals throughout their site. I am still in love with that leather armchair from this site, and this may finally be my chance to pick it up at a more reasonable price.
- JCPenney has free shipping on most orders over $69. You have to check out the site for restrictions. Still, since they have so many retail locations, you can return items in person for free too!

Tuesday, November 11th
- Sephora has got free shipping on all orders over $50 with code SHIPPING50. They are part of our Holiday Deals event, so you can get free shipping plus 8% cash back. Don't forget about all the great deals on free gifts they have too!

Wednesday, November 12th
- Blair is offering free shipping on all orders with no restrictions or price limits

Thursday, November 13th
- Jos. A. Bank is offering free shipping on all orders over $175, and with their high-end, high fashion products, it isn't hard to reach that total, so take advantage of the savings!

Ladies and gentlemen, we are proud to announce this year's winner of the Halloween Photo Contest and the $300 Snapfish Gift Card.

Click on this link to view the top three photos as voted on by you, the Ebates community!

Who knew that computers would be the easiest way to jump into high-def video? I didn't. In prior generations, the best bang for your buck usually came in the form of dedicated video players. Generally big and bulky, these old-school players have always been around for everyone to use, with few (if any) low-cost options available. With today's technology, however, getting fancy HD Blu-Ray playback is as easy as upgrading your computer's CD drive.

Even though it's probably not for those without a smidge of computer know-how, the Lite-On Blu-Ray DVD-ROM drive is a killer steal for only $90 shipped from Newegg. Compared to the cheapest stand-alone drives out there, which will still run you over $200 on special, the Lite-On drive is both a bargain and a no-brainer. You'll have to put it in yourself and need a computer that can handle the software, but that shouldn't stop you! Installation is simple, and most computers created within the last couple of years should be able to handle the drive with only minor changes or additions (double check around the internet to be sure). Even if you do have to bump up your system a little bit, the added bonus would pay off in terms of performance and power, letting you play more games and giving you a crisper image for practically anything you'd want to watch on your computer. Plus, it'll play HD-DVD's, regular DVD's, and burn DVD's & CD's with ease!

Sure, it might be a bit of a specialty item, but for those wanting to turn their computer into a DIY home theater system, this Blu-Ray drive is a great way to save a chunk of cash. You can even hook it up to a compatible LCD HDTV to watch your Blu-Ray movies on a screen that's bigger than your monitor. Just head on over to Newegg and search for "Lite-On Blu-Ray drive" and pick the one with the $10 off coupon. You'll be saving and movie-watching in no time!

For all those people who love a gift with purchase, but get stuck with the foundation sample that you have been dying to try but its two shades too dark, or the night cream that is formulated for combination skin when your skin is very dry, or the frosted lipstick that washes you out, I have pleasing news. At Bloomingdale's for a limited time, you can "Create Your Own" eight piece Estée Lauder Gift. Finally you have a choice: you can select your shades from two selections of lipstick, gloss, and eye palette, you can choose from three Repair Serums to suit your skin type as well as two cleansers and moisturizers. Plus, you get a fragrance sample and chic cosmetic clutch. One complete gift is pictured at left. Just spend $39.50 or more on Estée Lauder and the gift is yours. Also, don't forget about 3% cash back on all fragrance and beauty product purchases from Bloomingdale's quality with just $5 shipping! Wondering what to buy from the extensive Lauder Beauty Line? I recommend the new Turbo Lash, the mascara with a motorized brush, learn more here.

I also recommend any product from their popular skincare line, especially these Take It Away Long Wear Makeup Remover Towlettes, that are $17.50 for 45 pre-moistened cloths. They make cleaning you face an easy and trouble-free step, even if you are too tired to make it to the sink. Plus, they are fantastic for mid-day touch ups or to freshen up from work to cocktail hour.

With great products like this, you will be on your way to a free, personalized gift in no time. P.S., the petite sizes make great stocking suffers!

Hopefully, you all love a good joke as much as I do. I've never been a big prankster in my day, but I enjoy a laugh at least as much as the next person. I'm also horrible when it comes to peeking at presents. Ever since I was a small child, I would always poke around all the boxes in front of my family's Christmas tree, trying to figure out what was what. It was a running joke in my family because all the gifts with my name on them would always have a liiiitle tear in them somewhere on the package - just enough so I could try to angle the package in just the right direction so I could get a better look at the box. I was obsessed.

While I have learned a bit more restraint in my older age, I still revel in those brief moments of recognition where the wrapping paper falls away and you see the box for exactly what it is. Even more exciting is when whatever is waiting behind that wrapping paper isn't what you expected it to be. This can work in both ways: what you thought was a DVD set can turn out to be something awesome like a new electric toothbrush or a first edition book, or it can be something "less desirable" like a shoe shine kit or a super saver package with like ten pairs of underpants. It is that anticipation and rush of recognition that makes this product so great.

Leave it to the geniuses at The Onion to come up with something like imitation gift boxes. These babies are just basic boxes that you place your actual gift inside of that appear to be boxes for absurd products like the "Visorganizer", a visor-organizer, or the "Sounds of the Rainforest Fire Alarm" so that you are more relaxed the next time you find out that there is a fire in your home. They're great for covering up the fact that you picked out a sub-par gift, or just for throwing off people who obsess over what their present might be, like yours truly. As you can see from the picture, they look completely legit, and the set of four is just $20. It sounds silly, but can you put a price on laughter? Moreover, can you put a price on laughter that comes with 6% cash back through Ebates?

The only thing that could make this better would be if you could actually modify products so that they actually looked like the outside of the boxes. Now that would be a great gag!

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

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

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

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

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

eLUXURY.com has always been a leading destination for high-end and hard to find designers on the web. They are the first and only online retailer of Louis Vuitton; how's that for street cred? They carry and amazing assortment of contemporary designers like 3.1 Phillip Lim, Rag & Bone, and Vince to high fashion names like Dior, Versace, and Fendi to name a few. Needless to say, when prices drop to 70% off the suggested retail amount, with 3% cash back, it is an event.

Expect to see Dior Blouses reduced to under $150, Fendi Jackets 70% off, even Versace silk dresses for $1295 off and under $600. It's truly something to at least check out and make some fantastic, once-in-a lifetime purchases. Plus, they have new Fall items on sale for at least 40% off, so there is something for every taste and budget.

If you are looking for gifts, they have done the work for you. You can shop for Men's and Women's gifts by price point, from Under $100 to $1000. They have also created categories to make the shopping easier, are you buying for the "IT Girl" or "The Sophisticate"? Or "The Sports Authority" and "Business 101"? They have really taken the guess-work out of gift giving. If you still have questions, they have live chat to answer them.

Enjoy free shipping on orders of $200 or more, and you can add a gift message to purchases that they will ship gift-worthy and ready to pop under the tree.

Shop on!

Man jewelry is always kind of a no-no. Different people wear different amounts of jewelry for very different reasons. Still, I maintain that for the most part, jewelry is best when it's a subtle addition to a man's wardrobe, and not a feature of his outfit. For women, the rules are completely different. Still, for men, it is hard to find subtle jewelry. Even when it comes to picking out wedding rings, it's hard to find rings that aren't laser-cut or some blend of platinum and gold or something to that effect.

Luckily for the jewelry-sporting man, there is JustMetal.com. If you are the type of gentleman who prefers to wear a ring, tie clip, pendant, or cuff link, they have a great selection of products in various materials. Some have gemstones, some don't. Many of the products are Titanium, an emerging material in jewelry making, though there are also some made of tungsten, steel, white gold, or silver. Personally speaking, I'm a big fan of the Fusion-Matic Black Titanium Ring, which is currently on sale for 47% off the suggested retail price. It's a fascinating two-part ring made of titanium with a smaller, removable black titanium center band that slips out.

If you shop soon, you can enter promo code JMSWSA10 for an extra 10% off, plus everyday free shipping, free returns, and a free gift box. So whether you're looking for a piece of jewelry to add a little dash of flash to your formalwear, or if you're looking for a less traditional wedding ring, JustMetal has got you covered. Don't forget that Ebates also has you covered with 6% cash back on all your purchases from this great site.

Considering how much I love video games, it's a shame I haven't taken the time to point out a few choice titles for the holidays yet. Even though there's still a huge handful of games coming out before the holiday season hits in full force, it's important to grab the hot titles and systems months before to make sure they end up under the tree (or in a box, or next to a menorah, or haphazardly gifted to the person next to you). Few products have been hotter than the Wii over the past few years, and the Wii Fit Balance Board is a must-buy add-on for practically anyone with the system.

In case you missed all the hubbub a few months back, Wii Fit is a video game that focuses on getting you in shape and keeping you on top of your exercise regimen. By utilizing the innovative Wii Balance Board (included with the game) to calculate weight, body mass, and body position, Wii Fit is much more than just a video game or workout video. It's an interactive experience that makes sure you're doing your workout correctly while keeping track of your daily progress, giving you that little extra push to reach your goals. If you get tired of all the working out, Wii Fit includes a handful of mini-games ranging from skiing to soccer that utilize the Balance Board in clever ways. More and more games (like We Ski and the newest Rayman Raving Rabbids game) are using it for an extra interactive fun, so think of the extra cost as an investment for extra fun down the line.

Since Wii Fit is still a hot-ticket item that's tricky to find in stores (and will only get more difficult as the Holiday season builds) simply finding it online at regular price is a deal in itself. When you add in Ebates' cash back, however, then you can really get a steal! If you're looking to get a hold of this hot holiday ticket, don't walk, RUN (figuratively, via the internet) over to Best Buy and type in "Wii Fit" to grab it before it's out of stock. Go! Go! Go!

It was just yesterday, that we welcomed the online boutique Goldyn to the Ebates merchant family. Today, we can warmly welcome Smashbox Cosmetics offering 4% cash back to the health and beauty category. Although Smashbox products have been available through other merchants in the past, there is definitely something to be said about visitng a brand's own website, where you can really get a feel for the brand and seek advice from a Smashbox expert through live chat, email, or by phone. They also have a great interactive site. You can recieve special gifts through a program they call "Let's Do Lunch" where every Tuesday and Thursday you can shop between 9am and 2pm PST and get a free gift with every order. Plus, since Smashbox is such a fixure in providing makeup looks for fashion shows, they have a get the look feauture (my personal favorite) where they provide a step-by-step tutorial about how to achieve some of the most trend-setting and coveted makeup looks for every season. Like this beautiful look from the Spring 2008 show of Whitley Kros. Just beause this look is from past season does not mean its passe. This look is a perfect way to brighten up a drab fall day and when is a classicly lined eye and a healthy-glow not in style?. Shop Smashbox and browse many more "get the look" features and an array of innovative products with 4% cash back!

If, like millions of Americans, you've been following the election, you will have noticed there's something different about Michelle Obama. Something fresh, and not seen since the days of Jackie O. That difference is style, and the dress she wore on election night was no exception. While some have criticized the dress, calling it unflattering, or going so far as to compare it to a Halloween costume, I personally adore the Narciso Rodriguez frock, and think it was a winner just like her husband. Not only does this dress flatter her hourglass figure with it's emphasis on the waist, but the ombre fabric is one of fashion's hottest trends right now. Luckily with Ebates, stores like Shopbop, Saks 5th Avenue, and Nordstrom, you can shop this soon-to-be-everywhere trend, and get Cash Back. Love the look of her dress, but don't know where to find the designer? Stop searching the internet because Ebates has you covered here as well. Check out eLUXURY for other amazing Narciso Rodriguez dresses, and while you're at it, enjoy 3% cash back. Now you're shopping as smart as Michelle does.

No other woman in the political spotlight has impressed an entire nation with their fashion sense in almost fifty years, making Michelle fashion's new "it" girl. Her recipe for success is take one part dress and add two parts accessories. It's this formula that catapulted her into the fashion spotlight, and has made such items as brooches and waist belts not longer something only for the fashionista to wear. Her flair for fashion means you'll never find her in a stuffy skirt suit, whether she's wearing top designers like Thakoon Panichgul and Maria Pinto, or the $148 dress from White House Black Market that she wore on The View.

Despite having access to countless designers, Michelle shows off her great style with everyday pieces such as this cheery JCrew Sweater. Made from uber soft cashmere blend, this sweater features colorblock detailing, and crystal buttons for an extra pop. If, like me, you long to have style as carefree as hers but can't afford designer prices, then rejoice in knowing that Ebates has you covered. Not only will you receive 2% cash back, but this adorable sweater is on sale for just $89.99! Want even more savings? Now until November 8th, enjoy an extra 30% off all sale merchandise at JCrew, allowing you to shop Michelle's style for way less.

The next time you're looking for a great style inspiration, look no further than Michelle Obama. The next time you're looking for great savings, look no further than Ebates, where "change" has a very different meaning.

As I've mentioned times before on this blog, I am a book nerd. I got my BA in Literature, I once held a credential to teach high school English, and I am about a semester away from finishing my master's degree in literature. In other words, books and I are totally BFF. 

With my dedication to books, I find myself scoffing at magazines from time to time. It tends to make me a bit of a snob, but I can't help myself. I recognize that there are a number of quality magazines out there that cover a large number of interests. For instance, Allie and Poppy both read fashion magazines regularly, and it clearly helps them keep on top of their game when it comes to picking great products for all of you folks. I think that half of my bias also derives from the fact that I was a magazine subscriber for years through my high school years - I got Rolling Stone, Guitar One, and Guitar World every month. I read them obsessively, passed along issues to my friends, and kept up to date on everything in the world of music and guitars through them. But here's the problem: every one of those issues that I loved so dearly for those years is currently sitting in my garage, waiting for me to do something constructive with them. I can't bring myself to throw them away, there are just too many to donate anywhere in particular, and I know that there are collectors who would love to have the boxed collection of every issue of any of those magazines for a two and a half year span. At least I hope there are.

There is one magazine out there, however, that might make me re-think my perceptions of magazines, and that is MAKE Magazine. This magazine is the tinkerer's dream come true; it is chock full of tidbits of knowledge on how to build or modify all sorts of fun things. For instance, just look at this video on how to make miniature solar powered robotic bugs:

They tell you how to make everything from zip-lines to high-powered water rockets. Being from the Bay Area, we also have the benefit of the Maker's fair every year, where people who have created their own gadgets and doodads come out and show them off all together in one place. But that's not the point. The point is this: you can get your very own MAKE Magazine subscription from Magazines.com. If you are intrigued, let me sweeten the deal with a little reminder: Magazines.com offers the highest cash back amount of any merchant in the Ebates family at 26%. That means whatever magazine you choose from them, whether it be MAKE, Marie Claire, or Maxim, you will get that subscription with an immediate savings of 1/4 whatever you would pay. What's even better? Magazines.com already has discounted prices. To stick with my MAKE Magazine example, Magazines.com offers subscriptions for 41% off the cover price. Combine the two savings, and you will be paying 43% of what you'd pay at the newsstand.That might even be enough to get me back into magazines!

For part two of the knitwear diaries, I shall discuss the importance of adding a little detail to your knits. Fall and Winter can be quite monotonous in respect to the wardrobe. Because its cold, dark, and rainy or snowing, it can often be just a tad uninspiring. Looking good can sometimes take a back seat to being warm and cozy. This is just another wonderful reason to love knits. If you make the right choices, you can create a fool-proof knit arsenal that will keep you warm and stylish all season long.


Finding the right knits with a balanced amount of sophisticated detail is a great way to keep the wardrobe exciting during the colder months. Every season, I like to pick up a new sweater that has a nice amount of detail to add some interest to my outfits. It does get a little boring if you're only working with basic knits. I was immediately drawn to this Karoo Silver Grey Ruffle Sweater at Bluefly. the sweater is available in black and grey cashmere, and sells for $175 with 3% cash back. Plus, for a limited time, enjoy $30 off an order of $150 or more with code AFF30 at checkout (note: you must be a first-time buyer at Bluefly to apply the discount).  I like how it has subtle detail, it is a basic, flattering cut with ruffles on the back that are not too much. The subtle detail makes the sweater a little more dressy and could be paired with a skirt for a dinner out or work just as well with jeans and boots.

Even a basic in a bright hue may be all you need for detail and to add a little excitement to cold-weather dressing. This Chaps Button-Shoulder Sweater is a perfect example. This sweater is on sale for $29.70 with 2% cash back at Kohl's and is available in an array of vivid colors. It has a subtle button detail at a wide neck, which makes for a stylish, easy layering piece. And the price makes this item a must-have (or a must-give gift).

Today is the first day of Nordstrom's Half-Yearly Sale for Women and Kids, which is a perfect time to pick up a knit. They offer a ton of new-season sweaters at a discount. My pick is this TARNISH Ribbon Trim Cape that on sale for 50% off, now just $63.90 with 6% cash back (the excitement of holiday cash back increases is not soon to wear off for me). This is a great item to throw on over a cute party dress, a basic top, or even another sweater as long as it is fitted to the body. It's simply a fun and interesting layer to show off for 50% off!

Shop on!

My fellow fashion blogger Poppy, and I are often teased about our obsession with Shopbop, which is no fault of anyone but ourselves. Perhaps the word "obsession" is too soft, and the word "addiction" should be thrown in instead. We are, after all, addicted to this site, and visit it at least once daily for not just an amazing sale section, but inspiration as well. If pressed to find another website that features such forward fashion or such a long list of designers, I would come up empty handed. Countless blogs have been dedicated to items I've found at this clothing mecca, and I eagerly await their daily email enticing me with the latest in fashion.

While doing my a.m. Shopbop browse, I was delighted to see they are having a sale on full priced tops today and tomorrow only! As if shopping the site wasn't fun enough, I now can enjoy saving 20% on every woman's wardrobe staple... tops! Being inspired by last night's democratic victory, I sought out to find the perfect blue top. While this might seem a hard task, Shopbop has over 150 pages of tops ranging from basic tees to beautiful blouses. This silk blouse by Tucker features a smocked elastic neckline and ruching detail at the shoulders. This top is the perfect hybrid of plain meets pretty, and I can't wait to wear it with my new J Brand Bardot jeans. As if the outfit wasn't enough to make me giddy, saving $52 on the blouse, and receiving 3% cash back will put me into delirium. If after tops shopping you haven't gotten your fix, then check out their sale section, where everything is reduced by 30-70%. Worried about shipping costs? Don't be. At Shopbop you'll always enjoy free shipping, no matter what you spend. With so many great reasons to shop this heavenly site, you just find yourself becoming addicted too.

Okay gents (or ladies buying for their gents), we've covered the basics of men's fashion up to this point: pants and shirts. We even ventured into accessory land, which was a bit of a tactical risk on my behalf, but I'd like to believe that some of you out there gained a little insight or got some ideas as a result of it. Today we move on to the third staple of every man's wardrobe. It's part of the "three S's": shoes, smell, and smile. Unfortunately, I can't really help you with the smell or smile part other than to give the advice of regular grooming and using all scents in moderation.

That means I need to stick to what I have some insights on: men's shoes. This posting will only go into detail regarding tennis shoes. Boots are simple: just go basic in black or brown and you're fine. Get Doc Martens if you can. For dress shoes, it's all your personal taste, but I say go with either an oxford, wingtip, or cap-toe. Pointy shoes are out, and square toes seem to be gradually fading from vogue. There are two other rules of men's shoes before I get down to the meat-and-potatoes of tennis shoes: first, don't wear topsiders unless you actually sail, and second don't wear loafers. Ever. I don't care what anyone else says, there are too many other shoes out there that don't make you look foolish to resort to that outdated style. Seriously, loafers haven't been popular since JFK wore them, and I'm not talking about Junior.

I'm going to try to be quick and efficient, but that seldom happens when I write. Luckily, I think I can break all my recommendations down into four easy groupings, primarily by brand. I'm trying to go in alphabetical order here. Please note that I am not linking directly to any of these shoes because we offer such a wide array of shoe stores, it would be limiting to send you directly to one site. Instead, being the savvy shoppers that you are, I will send you directly to our Shoes category, and you can do the comparing on your own. So here we go:

Asics
I have been surprised by Asics' recent development in men's shoes. For a long time I always associated them with athletic, running, or cross-training shoes and little else. Recently, they have not only stepped up their designs here in the U.S., but they have also introduced a Japanese production line billed as "Onitsuka Tiger", and the shoes made on that line are wonderfully fashionable.
At left, you see the Onitsuka Tiger "Mexico '66" shoe, which captures the look of the Tigers that were made famous in the Olympic Games held in Mexico City in 1968. At right, you see the Asics Stormer, which can be considered to be the Americanized version, or the sportier version, of the Tiger. It also boasts "vegan production" which, I assume, means no animal products used. Both look great with either jeans or any of the pants covered in my previous blog, though I will offer one word of warning: stark white tennis shoes are strictly taboo. If you jump on a pair of those Stormers, make sure you take a run somewhere grimy, and take  a little of the white sheen off of them before you take them out in public much. Both are in the $70-$80 range before coupons or cash back, so they won't set you back too much either.

Converse
I'd like to hope at this point in our lives, I don't even have to say anything about Converse, because most everyone should own at least one pair of Converse All Stars in their lifetime. Chuck Taylors (or "Chucks" as they should really be called) are the quintessential American shoe, and even though their production facilities have moved overseas, they are the single shoe most anyone can immediately recognize. I don't know that I could possibly count the pairs of Chucks I've owned in my life, but suffice it to say, I got my first pair at age eight (I remember it well) and there has never been a point in my life since that I have not owned a pair. While everyone knows Chuck Taylors, comparatively less is known about it's Converse cousin, the Jack Purcells. Equally classic, and made of leather rather than canvas, a pair of Purcells say "I love the look of Converse shoes, but am disillusioned with the number of people who wear Chucks for style." It's a subtle declaration of individuality and knowledge that folks in the know will definitely pick up on. Chucks seem to hold steady around $40, but the more durable Purcells hover around $60, though they will admittedly last longer.


New Balance
I hope that most of you are familiar with the New Balance story. They are based in Boston, and continue to make the great products they started back in the early 1900s. They do not employ any sweatshop labor, unlike some of their more... unsavory competitors, and they capture that "1970s track star" look better than almost anyone else. Oh, and more importantly, they make some of the most comfortable shoes I've ever worn. I have on a pair right now, as a matter of fact. The pair I'm wearing, the m595, are pictured at right, while the left hand is the next pair I have my eye on; the harder-to-find m410. While I love the timeless look of the 595s, those 410s are a little more eye-catching, a little younger, and proudly display my Swedish blue and gold. A pair of New Balances will set you back between $50 and $60, but can you really put a price on comfort or social awareness?

"Other"
There are two other shoes that bear mention in the race to be the most of-the-moment. They're both a little retro, they're both a little timeless, and they're both between $40 and $50, depending on where you find them. The first is the Saucony Jazz, pictured at left. I own a pair of these as well, and they are the only shoes that give New Balance a run for their money in the comfort category. They are similar in styling, but have a bit more "hipster cred" than New Balance because of the lesser -known status of Saucony. The other shoe I needed to mention was the Vans Old Skool. Pictured at left, this shoe was what kept Vans "cool" during the whole "clunky skater shoe" bonanza of the late 90s. This look is classic, it's sleek, and it's comfortable. I find them to be a great alternative to Converse, as both feature a very flat sole, and have a similar fit. They're made of a sturdy blend of leather and canvas, and actually fit comfortably right out of the box. Available in a number of colors, these are the perfect complement to a number of different outfits, and I think they look pretty much perfect with a pair of Dickies.

Phew... that was borderline exhausting. So now it's your turn. Buy some shoes, check out our Shoes category, or just tell me where I'm wrong.

As the most traveled day of the year quickly approaches, Americans brace themselves for an onslaught of travel annoyances, delays, and setbacks summed up in one word: nightmare. I am grateful there is the prospect of turkey on the other side of my plane ride, and I am sure that this is the same sentiment that motivates people to contend with the hassle.

As Thanksgiving eve approaches, I start to obsessively plan my travel modus operandi. One of the many things that freaks me out about flying (other than the prospect of death) is making the choice of whether or not to check my luggage. I can either risk loss or damage and extra long lines to check a bag or simply carry on a bag, which is also problematic. I fear the idiot trying to push his giant bag into the overhead compartment as he crushes all my valuables. I was a devoted "carry-oner" until the TSA regulations mandated that all liquids must be 3 ounce or less and fit inside of a quart-sized baggie. I need to have a nice sampling of all my beauty products to feel grounded and comfortable when I leave home. That image to the left is my worst nightmare. There is no way I could survive on that!

Praise the geniuses of the beauty industry for producing travel-sized containers of quality beauty products. I can now stuff that quart-sized bag with miniaturized containers of my favorite products. And we can all enjoy the trip to the airport just a little bit more.

Some of the best travel sized kits out there are good quality and easy on the budget, especially if you are a regular in the friendly skies. For skincare, this Murad travel kit is perfect. For $12.95, you get a great kit to keep your skin healthy and glowing while away (it's also a great way to try products before shelling out the money for a full size). The Murad four piece Travel Essentials Kit comes with bestselling products like their hydrating toner and SPF eye-cream. Its truly a must-have for just $12.95 plus 11% cash back. At Beauty.com, you can buy this L'Occitane Getaway set, a $52 value for only $35 with 8% cash back. This eight piece set comes with everything you need for your hair and body. The set has shampoo and conditioner, body wash, lotion, hand cream, and bar soap. You can pick and choose which of these products you want to tote with you, and then store the rest for later. It's a great investment and will last forever, and will keep you looking good and breezing though travel lines!

Another great way to bypass check-in hassles whilst being eco-friendly and frugal is to pick up some travel sized bottles from the Container Store. Prices range from less than one dollar to $7.99 for a full travel set, all with 4% cash back. You can borrow product from your own full sized containers and easily pack these into the mandated baggie. Plus they are leak-proof, because we have all been there...

Book your travel through Ebates to earn cash back and make the flying experience that much more bearable!

Shopping for the opposite sex can be a challenge, especially if you're a man shopping for a woman, or worse (gulp), a teenage girl. Being a woman who was once a teenage girl, I understand and sympathize with men on the vast differences between the sexes. I understand how we may come across as another species, full of strange thoughts and feelings. Thoughts such as "I want you to listen to me" or "We need to talk". Women are not the easiest people to buy for (unless of course you're a woman), but that doesn't mean it's impossible. I always get a kick from watching my dad attempt to buy for my younger sister, as he wanders through mall stores packed with teenage girls and their bored to death boyfriends, looking like a deer in the headlights.

The key to buying the woman in your life something they'll not only appreciate, but love, is to pay attention. What do they do for fun? Any shows they like to watch? Notice any clothing brands? Nearly all teenagers own a sweatshirt emblazoned with Old Navy, Aeropostale, or American Eagle, so it's safe to say that your chances of finding something at one of these stores is pretty high. Take Aeropostale for example. Right now they're having a huge sale on just about everything in the store including logo hoodies, t-shirts, and this Fur-Trimmed Fairisle Sweater to the right. This sweater is perfect for all teenage girls because it is "cute", a term I'm sure every dad is familiar with.

Not just a one-stop destination for teen clothing, Aeropostale also has lots of stocking stuffer items such as perfumes for under $13, and wallets under $9. The great thing about shopping for teens is their love of brands. So it doesn't really matter what you buy, as long as you buy it from their favorite store.

Women aren't that easy, and what you buy is much more important than where you buy it from. A power drill from Saks 5th Avenue is still a power drill, even if it does look fancy. If the woman you love is like most other women, she probably likes, no, loves, Sex And The City, and has seen every episode at least ten times. If you're wanting to get some serious brownie points, then I suggest getting her Sex And The City: The Complete Series. Not only does it include all six seasons, but it also features a bonus disk with games and video clips. Normally priced at $300, it's selling at the HBO Store for just $199 or $100 off! Include 3% cash back and it's like saving 35% off the retail! If by chance she already has the complete collection but still yearns for more, get her the Sex And The City: Kiss And Tell book. Loaded with behind the scenes stories, interviews, and, of course, the fashion, this is sure to keep any woman entertained for hours. It's just $21.99, making it cheap enough for a stocking stuffer, or the office secret Santa. No matter who you're buying for, remember shop early because there are only.....

Needless to say, the Ebates team gets very excited to welcome a new merchant to the ever-growing list. Much like a mother hen, we love all of our over 1,000 merchants just the same and we are pleased to welcome another in to the rotation. That being said, personally, I am always just a little more excited to welcome an apparel merchant in to the swing of things. Welcome Goldyn. They have just been added to the impressive list of women's online boutiques and offer a very exciting 5% cash back. With 5% you can really rack up some cash. They have won me over. Goldyn offers an extensive list of high end designers: Development, Loffler Randall, Botkier, Linea Pelle, Trina Turk, and many, many more. Their site offers a selection harder-to-find lines as well, like Porridge and Mon Petit Oiseau.  Also, they carry a selection of high-end vintage pieces that are for sale on the website. They offer expertly-selected, mint condition pieces of clothing and jewelry. Often, online boutiques lose the hand picked, boutique-y nature of their selection because they feature almost every item offered in the designers line. I am excited to see the "personalized" and shoppable selection Goldyn offers!

And if you do some shopping in November, you will qualify for free shipping on orders over $100. Every order also qualifies you to be automatically entered into a raffle to win a brand new Botkier bag. That is some major incentive.

Shop on!

Fragrances make excellent gifts. This is mostly because you are buying someone a thoughtful luxury that, perhaps, they wouldn't buy themselves. This warm-hearted sentiment can sometimes become problematic if you are unaware of what fragrance the gift recipient likes or, if you do not like their chosen fragrance and want to break them of that habit. This is where my new favorite holiday gift comes into play: the Sephora Scent Sampler Best Sellers For Her, available with 8% cash back (was 4% -- woo hoo increased holiday cash back! Learn more here). What makes this little sample set so genius is that not only are you giving ten deluxe samples of Sephora's top selling fragrances (Aquolina Pink Sugar, Bulgari Omnia Crystalline, Calvin Klein Euphoria, Givenchy Very Irresistible Givenchy Sensual, Marc Jacobs Daisy, Philosophy Amazing Grace, Stella McCartney Stella, and Vera Wang Princess), the set actually comes with a Sephora gift certificate to purchase a full-sized bottle of your favorite after you are done sampling! So basically, you are giving someone the gift of ten deluxe samples and one full sized bottle of a best-selling fragrance. It might just be magical.

Gents, don't despair. There is also a Men's Scent Sampler Best Sellers as well! And the set includes top sellers like: Bulgari Aqua Pour Homme Marine,Yves Saint Laurent L'Homme, Giorgio Armani Acqua Di Gio Pour Homme and many more! Truly, this is a gift-giving must-have for anyone on your list. Plus you get whopping 8% cash back for yourself to spread more cheer and fresh scent!

Shop on!

Riding in on the wave of Neopets, Tomogatchis, and other inanimate-objects-turned-animals, Tekno the Robotic Puppy has been warming hearts and saving furniture since 2000. With a host of changes, innovations, and a new paint job, Tekno is back and ready to be your favorite canine substitute. Better yet, he's more affordable than ever thanks to Buy.com, and the magic of Ebates!

Instead of being another simple remote controlled animal, Tekno actually reacts to sound, sight, touch and even plays with you like a real dog. He'll fetch his magnetic ball, comes when called, and even needs his bone (as well as a few AA batteries) for sustenance. If he's hungry, cranky, tired, or happy, Tekno lets you know by expressing his emotions through his eyes and ears. While being voice controlled and interactive is awesome enough for most, Tekno even communicates with you via his translator and will let you know if he needs his bone, ball, or just some good ol' fashioned TLC. No dog you have to feed, bathe, and clean up after is as easy as Tekno!

With Ebates' holiday special just getting into full swing, it's officially time to start collecting your holiday gifts for everyone on your list. Tekno would likely make any kid squeal with delight, and is currently on sale for 50% off at Buy.com; making him only $25 with free shipping. Considering his wide range of emotions, actions, and suggested retail price of $50+, Tekno is a great grab for anyone looking for an extra toy, or a little companionship. Get your shopping done early!

Every woman has a list, or many lists for that matter. Lists of clothes to buy, hairstyles to try out, make-up to test, etc. Lists are what keep many of us going, especially in these hellish economic times. A list is less like bunch of tasks, and more like an ongoing fantasy. Can't afford to buy that Diane Von Furstenberg coat? Put it on the list. Don't have $50 for the new Dior moisturizer you're dying to try? Put it on the list. Instead of wallowing in self defeat, think optimistically. After all, if you can't buy it now, you can always buy it later. What happens if the item you've been coveting sells out? Well, if you're anything like me, there's always a back up item to be loved and quickly added to the list.

An oldie but goody on my list is the iTech Ionic Tourmaline Hair Dryer. Being new to the world of high tech hair appliances, I had no idea how advanced a hair dryer could be. I always assumed that frizzy, dull, lifeless hair associated with blow drying was the norm, however it seems I am mistaken. This hair dryer uses tourmaline crystals to deliver negative ions and infrared heat, which dries hair from the inside out, thus eliminating moisture loss and the frizzies. Now mind you, this doesn't really make sense to me, but neither does the plot of Lost. And I love Lost.

  When it comes to clothing or shoes, an average list for me can range from 5 - 25 "want to buy" items, which I then calculate. After seeing the cost (sometimes in the thousands) I usually try to get serious with myself and narrow down said list. The key word in that sentence was "try", because it doesn't always happen. The busiest time for list making occurs around the seventh of every month, when the new issues of magazines such as Lucky, Vogue, and Elle hit the stands. After all, one cannot create a list without the proper research.

As a side note... if you ever come across British Elle, snatch it up promptly. Flipping through page after page of amazing goods is the best high (legally speaking of course) one could ever get.

Speaking of an altered state, these Kors by Michael Kors boots make my heart stop, and top my shoe list as my "Blow the rent" item. If duck boots and plaid had a baby, then this would be their offspring, but four inches taller. Not only do these boots make my heart stop with their bold plaid and patent leather detailing, but they're actually a smart choice. The extended rubber sole keeps feet dry in the rain, and the heel keeps the bottoms of  trousers dry. I imagine wearing these boots with jeans tucked in and a black over-sized sweater for a French "I'm going to the market" look. Of course, working at Ebates means my lists have grown substantially, but by shopping at Bloomingdales I'll receive 2% cash back, which is a savings I'll need for future list items. With the holidays fast approaching, my beloved lists will become gift-themed, however this does not mean my savings will have to stop, or that the thrill of the hunt will die. With Ebates, the thrill is always there, even if I'm not shopping for myself.

Every season when it actually begins to get cold, the same thoughts run through my mind. One: I need knits. Two: How could I ever live without knits? I usually say this three-sweaters deep in a layering extravaganza. These statements dominate my shopping decisions until about mid-March. That is when I become obsessed with something new. This cyclical seasonal thinking makes me crave a great selection of sweaters, much like some people crave holiday cookies or Gingerbread Latte season at Starbucks.

On my radar this season is a fabulous sweater vest. I need one. I fell in love with this Alexander Wang  Knit Vest at Shopbop. They say people's pupils dilate when they see something pleasing... Consider my pupils dilated. This amazing must-have gem is available for $304 at Shopbop with 3% cash back. My propensity to buy a knit typically relies on several factors including fabric content (the most important) and overall design, meaning shape, style, color, etc. This Wang knit vest passed the overall design test at a moment's glance. The v-neck, the semi-sheer weight of the knit, and the twisted racer-back are all to die for. The wheels of obsession that were mentally balancing my checkbook were quickly halted when I read the fabric content: 84% Viscose 16% Nylon. I ask you Alexander Wang, why? You are so skilled at making cashmere knits, even cotton silk blends. But....Viscose and Nylon....for $300? If it was not the first week of November, and if I hadn't discovered a new found practical frame of mind, this vest would be on a UPS truck to my house in no time. However, I just wonder how much practical use a San Franciscan could get out of a nylon and viscose sweater vest. If you live somewhere more temperate, I encourage you to buy this piece. It really is amazing. Although, I must regretfully move on.

At Bloomingdale's, I found this Sutton Studio Cashmere Vest for $128 with an additional 30% savings. that extra 30% makes the vest just under $100 at 99.60 with 2% cash back. This vest is fabricated in a 2-ply cashmere, so it is thick enough to be a warm layer but thin enough for easy layering without bulk. I also like the over-sized "boyfriend" style, another crucial and appreciated design element for stylish layering. I am of the belief that a knit vest should never be shrunken or cropped, so this long and lean vest is perfect. I think I may have to pick up one in black...and grey? Really, who can have too many sweater vests?

In the meantime, shop on and look out for more knitwear to come!

While it's never good to assume things, I will assume that if you're reading this blog, you know all about the amazing savings that Ebates provides. The cash back, the deal pages, the coupons, the weekly newsletter that is chock full of savings. If you are an Ebates member than this is nothing new.

But wait... there is something new, the Ebates holiday package! What is this, you ask? Well, it's sort of like a pot full of savings. Add one part amazing stores, and mix in double cash back, and viola! You have the Ebates holiday package. We've taken eighteen of our favorite stores and teamed up to give you Double Cash Back...everyday! So if you're like me and want everything for next to free, then this is your ticket. Don't wait for stores at the mall to have sales (just imagining the traffic is making me sick) and shop from the comfort of your own home, all the while knowing that you're saving way more!

Sick of reading and can't wait to get shopping? Find all the great deals we've been talking about right here.

Sometimes working at Ebates gives you an insider advantage. We find out about deals in advance, we have experts on all sorts of topics when it comes to online shopping, and we get tipped off on all sorts of cool and exciting merchants that might otherwise get overlooked. Today it is my pleasure as an Ebates expert to tip you all off on PrintRunner.com.
 
Their premise is not unlike similar sites: they will do custom-ordered printouts, notepads, magnets, door hangers, business cards, and any number of other jobs. Where they set themselves apart is in turnaround time and in discounts. They offer 11% cash back through Ebates and have a number of various coupons and specials that help you save even more money.

I encourage you to check them out -- just a reminder: holiday card season is just around the corner, and this is the perfect place to get your cards made or get a custom calendar put together as a keepsake for a family member. They also like our users so much that they are willing to offer a 5% discount on any order for Ebates customers with coupon code EBATESPRINT through the end of the year.

Shop soon, these great deals won't last!

As Bill mentioned in his post on Friday, the cash back checks are in the mail. In the spirit of the holidays, I would like to encourage you to take that money you have earned and do the right thing: stimulate the economy. Spoil yourself on a modest extravagance before the holidays go into full swing and you have to put yourself last on the list. That is why I am picking up a pair of these ridiculously cute or, cute and ridiculous fleece-lined sweater slippers from the Gap. They are only $29.50 with 6% cash back and they are available in an array of colors to match any pajama or lounge wear you may have. Go festive with red or winter white, winter-chic with oatmeal or tap into your teenage side and choose hot pink. Pick up a pair for someone on your list. You can erase the guilt you may suffer about buying for yourself this close to the holidays; and you can use the rest of your cash back towards gifts. It's the perfect compromise, because, really, you earned it.

I personally envision myself in a pair, wrapping Christmas gifts and listening to holiday music. It sounds like an advertisement for the Gap, but really, it's true. Then I will tempted to wear on a quick errand and ending up in an episode of What Not To Wear, as the hosts are shocked and appalled that as a professional woman who writes about fashion, I could commit such an error of judgment. But really, what's fashion sense without a faux pas or two? I promise, I will not let you down, and will wear these only within the comfort of my home. But it will be tempting.....

After a long, hard week at work, there's nary a better way to unwind than with a good video game. Paired with a refreshing beverage, some snacks, and maybe even some friends, video games make the perfect form of escapism that we all need from these trying times. When the economy, unjust propositions, and  generally tumultuous political climates get you down, why not remind yourself that things really aren't that bad yet? After a bit of intensive research, I can qualitatively say that the best game to keep morale going would have to be Fallout 3.

As a series that has only become more plausible over the years, Fallout 3 is a game that couldn't come out at a better time. Set some 200 years into the future, the Fallout series has been giving us a taste of nuclear ramifications since its PC debut back in 1997. Fallout 3 carries in its predecessors epic footsteps by giving you a massive (and apocalyptic) open world to roam around in and experience firsthand. As a young inhabitant of a fallout shelter, you must set off on a grand adventure to find your father, whose disappearance looks to have something to do with the Enclave; the elitist and genocidal remnant of what used to be the United States Government. Regardless of its somewhat ironic premise, Fallout 3 has garnered rave reviews from publications worldwide thanks to its customizable, open-ended, and deep gameplay experience; all elements are very reminiscent of publisher Bethesda's prior game, Oblivion.

Even though new PlayStation 3 and Xbox 360 games rarely deviate from their $60 price point, Newegg.com has Fallout 3 on sale for $56.99 ($46.99 for PC) with free shipping and 2% cash back through Ebates. With the weekend in full swing, why not treat yourself to a little apocalyptic R&R? Who knows, it could be helpful research into the near future someday.