Category / shopping

by Kelly Mattei

What to Purchase Now for a Dorm Room

What to purchase now for a dorm room.

My daughter just finished her junior year of college.. It’s hard for me to believe she is 3/4 of the way through college. I remember my own college days so well; I’m so happy she is getting to go to the same awesome university and have her own experiences. We feel pretty seasoned now that she has survived three years. So while I’m thinking about it, and since you have time to prepare now, I’m going to make some suggestions on necessities. Seriously, I know graduation festivities (ugh) are upon you, but start purchasing and ordering now, and you’ll have less to do as your college freshman’s departure approaches. You can also spread out the expenses over the next few months instead of being slapped in the face with big credit card bills at dorm move-in time. These are just a few items I recommend purchasing early, before everyone else jumps in, making them difficult to find.

Mattress Topper. I never met a dorm mattress I liked. Goodness. One would think they could find a way to improve those things. I was a freshman in 1985, and I daresay my daughter’s freshman dorm mattress was no more comfortable than the one I had way back when. We knew that would be the case, so we invested in a quality mattress topper. There are lots of them out there, but we opted for the Sleepyhead brand. Our daughter’s dorm room has a twin XL bed, so we ordered the Twin XL 3″ Topper from Sleepyhead. She loves it. Priced at over $300, it’s not cheap, but right now, they are offering a $70 coupon. It’s probably some of the best money I’ve ever spent. Our daughter used hers freshman year in the dorm and sophomore year in the sorority house. She loved sleeping in her bed, calling it “cozy and comfy.” She got two full years of use out of it. She moved into an apartment with a queen bed last year, so she can’t use the topper again, but we purchased Sleepyhead topper for her queen bed. Check out Sleepyhead on Amazon here. ***Keep it in the box until you get to the dorm room!***

Stand-up Steamer. I think people thought I was crazy when I told them I was getting our daughter a stand-up steamer to take to college with her, but it is one thing that definitely got used…and it’s so much easier than ironing! Plus, a stand-up steamer won’t “walk away” to someone else’s dorm room, never to be seen again! Our daughter participated in sorority recruitment as soon as she arrived at school, so I knew she would need to steam out her dresses before she wore them. We couldn’t have her showing up all wrinkled! She tells me she has used it countless times throughout the year for steaming formal dresses, cocktail dresses, and anything else that was overly wrinkled. We opted for the a Rowenta model. You can see it and purchase it on Amazon here. If you want to purchase a handheld steamer instead, I highly recommend one from Rowenta you can purchase here.

Bankers Box Smooth Move Wardrobe Boxes. These stand-up boxes are more for the move-in, but they were big helps with our daughter’s hanging garments. They have a bar across the top on which to hang the clothes, and they hold a lot of clothes. We only used one, and our daughter took a lot of clothes with her. When we arrived in the dorm, we simply lifted the hangers off the bar and moved them straight to the closet bar…super easy. For about $44, you’ll get three bankers boxes. We gave one to a friend who was going off to college too, and saved the third one…might use it for move-out. You can purchase here.

Swiffer Sweeper 2-in-1 Mop. I don’t know how often this item has been used, but if they can’t really clean the floor without it. At least give them a fighting chance at having a “clean-ish” floor. Plus, you will want to run it through the room before you set everything up. Just get it. It will make you feel better knowing your child can mop the floor if he/she chooses or needs to! Get it from Amazon here.

Velvet Hangers. I know how easy it is for a college student on the go to grab a shirt and just snatch it off the hanger on the way to class. Hangers go flying, and other items fall to the bottom of the closet. That doesn’t happen with velvet hangers. They have added a lot of organization to my own closet. I purchase Zober non-slip Velvet Hangers in Ivory. Just trust me on this one. Shirts don’t get horns in the shoulders. Dresses hang nicely and don’t fall off the hanger and into the floor. Get them at Amazon here. You’ll think you won’t need many, but start with 200.

And I’m going to repeat some move-in essentials from a piece I wrote recently:

Hulken Bag. I ordered two. My daughter has one at college, and I have one at home, but I will take mine down with me when we move her out. They simply make moving lots of items easier. We got large ones. Get them here.

Moving Bags. These are similar to the Ikea moving bags, but I ordered from Amazon, because I thought these were a little bigger and sturdier. They worked great for move-in, and I expect them to work great for move-out too! Get them here. (Keep in mind: these sell out during summer, as families stock up on them, so get yours early.)

Collapsible Wagon. We got one of these for our daughter when she was returning to college after the holidays. It was an easy way for her to get everything from the parking garage to her room. Get it here.

Versacart. This is one my aunt told me about, and it’s awesome! She calls it her “old lady cart,” but it does the job! She uses it to bring in groceries or any packages from her car. Get it here.

Stick with me, moms of future college students, and I’ll provide you with all sorts of helpful ideas over the next few months. Start shopping now! And please use my links above to purchase! *I may be compensated for some of the items I suggest, but I wouldn’t suggest them if I didn’t believe in them!

***Featured photo from sleepyheadusa.com

by Kelly Mattei

Good People Are Easy to Find

Good people are easy to find.

Last Thursday morning, I met my friend, Angela, in the Charlotte airport and boarded a plane to Los Angeles. It was the first time the two of us have taken a real trip together, just the two of us, I think. We have taken vacations with our daughters, and we have even taken vacations with my husband, but as far as I can remember, we had never taken a real vacation without anyone else. We have been friends for almost 40 years, so we were overdue. Before we went, we knew we were likely to have a lot of fun laughing, drinking, talking, relaxing, and more, but we had no idea what was ahead of us. We were pleasantly surprised!

It all started when I boarded the American Airlines flight to LAX. I got to my seat and lifted my carry-on bag into the overhead bin. Immediately, a gentleman in the row in front of me asked, “Would you like to trade seats?” I didn’t want to be rude, but I plan my travel ahead of time and pick my seats carefully. I booked the aisle seat on row 2, because I like to be near the front of the plane, but I do not like to sit at the bulkhead. I like to be able to put my handbag underneath the seat in front of me. When you sit at the bulkhead, you have to put all carry-ons, including your handbag into the overhead bin, and I don’t like to do that. Some people might think it’s ridiculous that I feel that way, but I like having my migraine meds, my reading materials, and my earbuds readily available. Therefore, I told the gentleman, “No, thank you, I don’t like sitting at the bulkhead. Sorry.” At about that time, my seatmate arrived, and he was that gentleman’s business partner. The first gentleman in row 1 turned to the woman in the seat next to him and asked if she would switch with my seatmate. She agreed and came back to sit by me.

Before we took off, I told her, “Please don’t hesitate to let me know if you need to get up during the flight. It’s not likely I will fall asleep, but please just let me know, and I can let you out of the row at any time.” I also told her I always get an aisle seat, because I end up going to the bathroom several times, so I understand needing to get up. We exchanged pleasantries. Soon after takeoff, we engaged in conversation. Her story is not mine to tell, but I can tell you this: she is one of the loveliest, most interesting people I have ever met! I can tell you most people would love to meet her, and she has an incredible life story. In fact, you can read her story in her own words, because she has written a book about her different life experiences. Her name is Dr. Niedre Heckman, and the book is called The World Where I Belong: My Quest for Identity As a Black Woman in White Skin. You can purchase it on Amazon (I started reading it last night) here. Like I said, I will not tell her story, but as an introduction, I will tell you she is an African-American woman who is about my age, and she was born with the condition called albinism. I will not pretend to know everything about the condition, but the most obvious characteristic is the lack of pigmentation in one’s skin/hair/eyes. Those of us who don’t have the condition can only imagine what it’s like to grow up with it, but Dr. Niedre Heckman is sharing some insight into her own life and experience. I highly recommend the book, based simply on the fact that I found her to be fascinating. She is most kind and wants good things for other people. We can all learn something from her. Highly recommend her book! That good person (#1) was easy to find!

It was an incredible start to the weekend! When we arrived at baggage claim in LAX, I introduced my longtime friend (40+ years!), Angela, to Dr. Heckman, and she walked away with the same impression. It was foreshadowing, I believe, for the rest of the weekend. Our meeting set the tone for a weekend with great people.

The next day, we opted for a late lunch in our hotel’s largest restaurant. We had a great table for people watching, one of my favorite hobbies. I was not disappointed that day. We were lingering over cocktails after lunch when a couple came in and sat at a table nearby. I noticed they were taking pictures, so I motioned to the gentleman that I would be happy to take pictures for them. He misunderstood my poor attempt at sign language and came over to our table, asking, “Do y’all want me to take your picture?” I said, “No, thank you! We were offering to take yours, but did you just say ‘y’all’?” He said, “I did! I’m from Alabama!” We said, “We are too!” (I was born in Florida but grew up in Alabama before moving to Charlotte 25 years ago.) After some discussion, we figured out this charming southern gentleman grew up with someone I know in Charlotte! We had a great time chatting with him and his friend…day made! Oh, we also got a glimpse of a few celebrities, one of whom even impressed my college-age daughter! Angela and I were most impressed by the lovely people we spent time with on that beautiful, sunny afternoon. What a great “small world moment”! And another good person (#2) who was easy to find!

The next afternoon, we had a lunch reservation at one of my very favorite restaurants ever. We were welcomed warmly by the manager, whom I had met on a previous visit. He has a positive, uplifting spirit and a genuine warmth about him, so I was thrilled to see him again. I introduced him to Angela, and we enjoyed talking with him. The food was fantastic (as always), and the whole experience could not have been better. Why? Because the staff at the restaurant was attentive; they were friendly and made us feel special! Woot! Good person (#3)…easy to find.

From there, we went to a scheduled shopping session at a store on Rodeo Drive. I love shopping with a particular gentleman who works there, because I have known him for years. I first met him probably 10 years ago when he was working at another store in the area. After COVID, I lost track of him, as he moved back to his hometown. However, last June, I walked into this particular store with my daughter and a friend, but without an appointment. The doorman called for an associate to meet us at the door, and out walked my old friend from the other store! I had found him! We agreed it was a God moment…I cried. Now, every time I’m in town, I shop with him, and I’m thrilled to know he is doing very well. My visits with him (and sometimes my purchases) always put a smile on my face. Good person (#4), easy to find.

But wait! There’s more! Saturday night, Angela and I had a reservation at another of my favorite restaurants, but we weren’t terribly hungry. We were also feeling a little lazy. For a brief moment, we considered canceling our dinner reservation, but finally decided to rally and go. We arrived at the restaurant right on time, and the hostess said, “Ohhh! I have the perfect table for you!” She whisked us off to a table that was, indeed, the perfect table. We could see the whole room! There was a fun birthday group at the table next to us. There was excitement in the air! Our server approached our table almost immediately. When I looked up at her, she asked, “Do I know you from somewhere?” I looked at her, puzzled, and replied, “Maybe here?” She said, “Maybe Bel Air?:” I recognized her then, but it was one of those rare moments I didn’t recall the name…”What is your name?” She replied, “Francesca.” Y’all. I met her when I dined at a restaurant in Bel Air five years ago! She was my server, and the next time I went, a year later, I requested her. This time, she recognized me first. I’m usually the one who remembers all the names and faces, so I was absolutely flattered that she remembered me! She literally said to me, “I have thought of you many times and wondered if I would ever see you again! When I saw you walk in, I recognized you immediately!” I was so happy to reconnect with her, and now, I will request her every time I go to this particular restaurant. Good person (#5) easy to find.

Sunday night, we had dinner with a friend we have known for several years. We have always known he’s a good person. We stumbled upon a friendship with him years ago.

Just goes to show you…good people are easy to find…if you just keep your eyes and ears open. It was a great vacation with a great friends and lots of new friends.

by Kelly Mattei

Someone On Your List Wants Barbie™ x Stanley Quenchers

Someone on your list wants Barbie x Stanley Quenchers. Now there’s a collaboration with the Barbie brand, celebrating 65 years of Barbie! Barbie x Stanley! These are hot items this holiday season! See all eight variations here. This is a great opportunity to get the perfect gift for the people on your list who love Barbie, or Stanley, or both! Get them before they’re gone! Use your Amazon Prime membership for free shipping!

  • Stanley x Barbie™ Icon 40 Oz Quencher Icon is the key word here, because this one is iconic! This beauty features the iconic Barbie logo in…you guessed it…pink! This 40-oz Quencher is priced at $60 and makes a great gift! Get it here.

  • Stanley X Barbie™ ’60s Twist ’N Turn Quencher 40 Oz With a soft, sorbet gradient and tangerine lid and straw combo, this vibrant Barbie Quencher captures the movement that made the Twist ‘N Turn Barbie doll so striking! Great colors and great for the Barbie collector too! Get it here.

  • Stanley x Barbie™ ’80s Rockers Quencher 40 Oz Inspired by the Barbie and the Rockers dolls, the Rockers Quencher features bright, retro graphics that are ready to rock. In a new wave style that is quintessentially Barbie, this unstoppable Quencher is born to lead. Purchase here.

  • Stanley x Barbie™ ’70s Superstar Quencher 40 Oz The hot pink and purple gradient of the Superstar Quencher is all about glitz and glam. A pattern of gold, dainty stars echo the sparkle and star-shaped stand of the Superstar Barbie doll. Purchase here.

  • Stanley x Barbie™ ’80s Western Ken Quencher 40 Oz Lasso your own Western Ken Quencher in a Midnight-black. With a print that mimics the contrast stitching and silver buckle showcased on the Western Ken doll, stand tall — adventure’s calling. Purchase here.

  • Stanley x Barbie™ ’80s Dynamite Quencher 40 Oz Rich colors, gold accents and disco lights of the Dynamite Quencher celebrate the first Black Barbie doll. Iconic in every way, the Dynamite Barbie doll debuted in a vibrant red bodysuit and wrap skirt with glamorous jewelry and star quality poses to shine. Purchase here.

  • Stanley x Barbie™ ’80s Rockers Quencher 40 Oz Inspired by the Barbie and the Rockers dolls, the Rockers Quencher features bright, retro graphics that are ready to rock. In a new wave style that is quintessentially Barbie, this unstoppable Quencher is born to lead. Purchase here.

  • Stanley x Barbie™ Icon 30 Oz Quencher The Barbie Icon Quenchers arrive in a bright pop of Barbie pink to celebrate shining bright together and creating limitless possibilities for all. This one holds 10 few ounces than the others, so it’s easier to carry and costs less! Purchase here.

These won’t last long! Take advantage of this opportunity to make lots of people on your list happy. Granddaughters? Check! Daughters? Check! Cousins? Friends? Moms? Check..check…and CHECK!

HAPPY SHOPPING!

by Kelly Mattei

Gifts For Women (that includes Mom)

Gifts for women (that includes Mom)

Lots of people find the women in their lives are difficult to buy for at the holidays. You’re not the only one trying to come up with gift ideas for Mom or your wife or other friends/family members. In fact, I get texts from people every day asking for help, so I’m going to throw some ideas out there. Some of them might be repeats from previous posts, but there will be some new ones in here too:

  • UGG Women’s Classic Ultra Mini Boot When I want to really relax at home and have comfortable shoes on my feet, I reach for my Uggs. I have all kinds of them…tall, short, classic, slippers…but these Classic Ultra Minis are great for me around the house. My daughter loves these too. In fact they’re on her Christmas list this year! Maybe Santa will bring them. Most of the women on your list would love this gift. It’s available in more than 20 colors. Purchase here.

  • Warmies neck wraps, eye masks, and heated slippers. You had me at “heated slippers.” They’ll actually microwavable slippers. To me, that sounds so incredible that I ordered some to put under the tree for myself! And the neck warmer? That’s always welcome. It can also be used on aching legs or even an aching back. Unlike a heating pad, you can walk around with warmies, because you aren’t attached to the wall with an electrical cord. Purchase slippers for Mom here. Purchase a microwavable neck wrap for her here. And the eye masks (heat them for relaxation or freeze them to de-puff eyes) can be purchased here.
  • Laura Geller New York Beauty Products. It’s what Mom wants! Laura Geller New York has beauty products that are made for mom! They’re current. They’re gorgeous. And they’re good for her skin! Get her the LAURA GELLER NEW YORK Jelly Balm Moisturizing Tinted Lip Color – Cocoa-Motion – Hydrating Vitamin E – Semi-Shine Finish here. It’s moisturizes her lips every time she uses it! She’ll thank you! Or maybe you’d like to get her the LAURA GELLER NEW YORK Award-Winning Baked Balance-n-Brighten To Go Travel Size Color Correcting Powder Foundation. It helps her skin while it covers little imperfections and creates a glowing finish. Find the right shade from the ones offered…it’s color correcting, and it’s not difficult to find her shade. Purchase here.
  • Drybar The Single Shot Round Blow-Dryer Brush This is a great gift for Mom! I have one that I use regularly! It gives my hair lift and body, whether I start with wet, damp, or dry hair. I love mine, and your Mom will likely love it too! Purchase here.
  • Dry Divas Shower Cap. Sounds weird, I know, but in my opinion, these are the best shower caps going. I have several of them, some of which I have had for seven years! I like them, because I have a lot of hair, and they actually cover all my hair on the days I don’t want to wash it in the shower. I have never found a better one. Plus, they’re so cute! Purchase the leopard one here and get it in time for Christmas!
  • SWOMOG Women Zipper Up Robe I know people laugh about moms getting robes for Christmas, but I love a robe. Seriously, I do. I always have. Even when I was a little girl, I liked to have a good robe to wear around the house. This one, though, is what I consider more of a “get ready robe.” When I get out of the shower, I might bundle up in a heavy robe for a few minutes, but when it’s time to do my hair and makeup, I don’t like to wrestle with a heavy robe. I put on my “get ready robe” that’s a lightweight, zip-up robe. Get one for mom here.
  • Bible Verse Jar This is a great gift for anyone. My mother would have loved this. I have one, and I sent one to my daughter in college, thinking it might help her when she is stressed or sad. It’s color coded by situation. Great gift. Get it here.
  • Credit Card Holder Wallet for Women I have one of these and get compliments on it all the time. Even my college-age daughter’s friends give me compliments on this wallet. It’s the one thing in my life that is truly organized! It also protect against credit card scanning with RFID protection. It comes in several colors. Right now, I’m carrying the green one, and my daughter has it in red. Get one for mom or any woman on your list here.
  • Kenneth Jay Lane Jewelry. Y’all, I’m just going to tell the world: I love Kenneth Jay Lane Jewelry. It’s all fake, but wow, he does a great job of making fake look good! I wear different pieces all the time, and some of them are my favorites! Any woman on your list is likely to love a Kenneth Jay Lane piece! There are lots of different price points, so you’re likely to find something in your budget that will be perfect for the women on your list. See Kenneth Jay Lane at Amazon here. Make sure you scroll all through the Kenneth Jay Lane items, as there are some that start as low as $22. I have a friend who has asked Santa for some gold polished earrings ($55) you can see here. If gems are their thing, see some great earrings for $109 here. Personally, it wouldn’t hurt my feelings to find the resin and glass earrings listed here. There are so many lovely necklaces here.

Go find something for the women on your list!

HAPPY SHOPPING!

*Sponsored ad. We receive commission on items purchased through links.

by Kelly Mattei

Ultimate Popular Stocking Stuffers 2024

Ultimate Popular Stocking Stuffers 2024

We posted about stocking stuffers a last week, and you can see those great suggestions here. Now I’m going to share some that have been best-sellers for everyone on your list over the last six years. Let’s gooooo:

  • Shower Steamers. These are best sellers year after year, and I think they are less expensive this year with a great Amazon Black Friday deal that’s still offered at time of publication. This pack offers 21 scented shower steamers with scents like lavender, eucalyptus, rose, and more. It also contains two mesh bags and two hooks for hanging them in the shower! Your shower will smell like a spa! My daughter loves hers. In fact, she will be getting another set this year! People have purchased countless shower steamers through my link, and you can get them for people on your list here.
  • Stylus Pens Set. Stylus Pen anngrowy Stylus Pens for Touch Screens Universal Stylus Ballpoint Pen 2 in 1 Stylists Pens for iPad iPhone Tablet Laptops Kindle Samsung Galaxy All Capacitive Touch Screens. I have purchased these more than once, because there’s just something about these pens. They are weighted nicely and write smoothly. The stylus is great with my smart phone and with my iPad. My husband and my daughter will find these in their stockings this year. Get them here.
  • OMRON Gold Blood Pressure Monitor, Portable Wireless Wrist Monitor, Digital Bluetooth Blood Pressure Machine, Stores Up to 200 Readings for Two Users (100 Readings Each). This is a great stocking stuffer for any adult on your list. It’s a great idea for all adults to be aware of their blood pressure situation. I check mine at least once a day, and my husband does too! Get this great gift at a discount (37% off at time of publication) here.
  • LANEIGE Lip Sleeping Mask Stocking Stuffer: Nourish, Hydrate, Vitamin C, Murumuru & Shea Butter, Antioxidants, Flaky, Dry Lips. My daughter found this in her Christmas stocking last year and loves it. Teenage girls and up will be happy to find this, and at publication time, it’s on sale on Amazon for 20% off, so it’s under $20! Get one for every teenage girl or young woman on your list! Purchase here.
  • Sol de Janeiro Products. These are popular year after year, and a gift set is a great way to get a lot of products at a lower price. The SOL DE JANEIRO Hydration Celebration Body Routine Gift Set is a limited-edition 5-piece visibly firming routine. The holiday set includes a full-size body cream, travel sizes of body wash, body scrub, perfume mist, and a deluxe-size body oil, all in the irresistible & sunny Cheirosa 62 scent. It’s an AMAZON’S CHOICE product, and it is a great stocking stuffer as a set or divided up for different members of the family. Get it here. ***Sponsored ad***
  • Hand Warmers Rechargeable 2 Pack, 6000mAh Electric Hand Warmer Reusable, 20Hrs Long Heating, Portable Pocket Heater Handwarmer for Women Men, Outdoor Camping, Hunting Gear. This is listed as Amazon’s Choice. These cute Panda-shaped, rechargeable handwarmers are great gifts for kids and adults. Stick one in each coat pocket on cold mornings or for an outdoor sporting event. I know I could have used these at a few lacrosse tournaments over the years. Get the 2-pack here. Or the 4-pack here.
  • Airmoto Tire Inflator Portable Air Compressor – Air Pump for Car Tires with Tire Pressure Gauge – One Click Smart Pump Tire Inflator for Car, Motorcycle, Bicycle and More. With over, 13,000 reviews and a 4.3 rating out of 5, this is an AMAZON’S CHOICE. It makes a great stocking stuffer. In fact, I think we should all get one of these to keep in each car we own! I see so many people on the college parent pages asking, “Where can my child go to inflate his/her tires?” Yes, I see it all the time, but don’t get me started on the parent pages. This is a great answer to that question: in your glove box or console! It’s quick and accurate and has auto shut off when your tire reaches the desired inflation. It also has a “deflate” button to remove air from an overinflated tire. This is a great gift for every driver on your list. Purchase at a discount (as of writing) here.

  • Electric Wine Opener. Y’all, this is a great addition to anyone’s bar or college apartment. Yes, everyone should know how to use a traditional corkscrew, but an electric wine opener is a great invention. There are lots to choose from, and I don’t have a preference of one over another. To see what’s offered on Amazon, click here.
  • Poo Pourri Potty Pods. I’m a fan of Poo Pourri products, the odor-trapping “before you go” brand. This year, I found their Potty Pods! They work under the same concept as their sprays, but they are in a pod form! It’s a cute, useful gift that anyone would love to find in their stocking. Get the Potty Pods at a discount (as of writing) here. I always have at least one of the travel size sprays in my handbag. To see the sprays or other Poo Pourri products, shop here
  • Makeup Eraser. These come in 7-day sets, and they work with just water to remove makeup. Sounds crazy, I know, but they work. My daughter and I both use them! We simply stick them in the mesh bag after use and at the end of a week, wash them all together in the washing machine/dryer. They are especially great for travel, because they eliminate the need for liquids in your carry-on bag! Purchase here.
  • Duncan Yoyo. Surely you remember getting a Duncan Yoyo in your stocking when you were a kid! If not, you missed out! They are good for hours of fun, and now Duncan makes more versions than ever. To shop for Duncan Yoyos, click here.

Happy Shopping! We will continue to share gifts as we find them!

***We receive commission on items purchased through our Amazon links.***

by Kelly Mattei

Best Segway Electric Scooter Holiday Deals

Best Segway Electric Scooter Holiday Deals

If you have a college student or someone who just enjoys electric scooters on your list, here are some great Black Friday Deals on Segway Scooters from Amazon:

  • Segway Ninebot Kick Scooter E2/E2 Plus/E2 Pro/ES1L. Specs: Powerful Motor, 12.4-15.5 mph, Cruise Control, Front Suspension (ES1L Only), Portable Electric Scooter for Adults up to 198 lbs, UL-2272 2271 Certified. This is a great scooter for use around a college campus or neighborhood, and it has a solid name brand behind it in Segway. It has a 15.5 mile range and goes up to 15.5 miles per hour, so it’s great for a student to get to and from class. Plus, the price is right. This portable scooter weight between 31 and 41 pounds, depending on the model you pick. Pricing is 30% off (at time of publication) on Amazon, with prices starting at $279. Take advantage of the great deal on a great product here.

  • Segway Ninebot MAX Electric Kick Scooter Max G30LP-25miles w/Powerful Motor, Long Miles Range, 18.6 Top Speed, Scooter for Adults UL-2271 2272 Certified. This Segway Scooter carries riders up to 220 pounds and goes up to 18.6 miles per hour. This is AMAZON’S CHOICE, and it’s priced at 43% off at $399.99 as a Black Friday Deal. Again, a great name in Segway, this scooter is efficient and portable. Weighing merely 38.6 lbs, it’s easily foldable with just one click, enabling seamless transportation and storage. These scooter sell like crazy, because of their range, portability, and weight capacity. Get it now here.

  • Segway ZT3 Pro Electric Scooter, 24.9 Mph Top Speed, 43.5 Miles Max. Range, w/Dual Suspension, Flash Charge, 1600W Peak Motor, Folding Off Road Scooter for Adults UL2272 2271 Certified. Another AMAZON’S CHOICE, this is a great electric scooter for the enthusiast. My husband loves this for the fun of it, but I know people who use it to get to and from work in urban settings…or even just running errands! It offer off-road power for the enthusiast. Conquer any terrain with 11″ tubeless tires and a 650W motor (1600W peak) reaching speeds up to 24.9 mph. It also has extended range: travel up to 43.5 miles (in ECO mode) per charge with the 596Wh battery and RideyLONG tech. Easily tackle steep inclines with a 25% climbing ability for smooth ascents.Dual front telescopic and rear spring suspension provide a cushioned ride on all terrains. It also charges fast and is safety certified. At publication time, it is offered on Amazon for $949.90 (14% off) and free shipping with your Amazon Prime membership! Get it here.

Let’s go SEGWAY SHOPPING!

by Kelly Mattei

Hot Adidas Products

Hot Adidas Products.

***Sponsored Ad*** As an Amazon affiliate, I receive commission for items purchased through my links.

Adidas has some hot products and some deals on Amazon this holiday season…something for almost everyone on your list!

  • Adidas Samba. There’s a special deal on the black Samba, a shoe that has been very popular with teens for several years. Get the deal here. Or get the popular white Samba here.

  • Adidas Adicane Slide Sandal. This is a great slide for recovery after sports endeavors, but it’s also the perfect shower shoe for college students and athletes! Get ahead of the game and gift your athlete or future college student with these for a great price! Purchase here.

  • Adidas Men’s Park Street Sneaker. If you have a man on your holiday list who loves a good street sneaker, this Adidas model is stylish and comfortable. He will welcome this gift! It’s offered in several colors. My husband wants black. Purchase here.

  • Adidas Men’s Lite Racer Adapt 7.0 Sneaker. The perfect slip-on sneaker! This is another one my husband would love. Men are all about the slip-on sneakers these days. It’s stylish, comfortable, and priced right! And it slips on!! Get it here.

  • Adidas Alphabounce. Another great slide from Adidas. Some people prefer this style post-workout, and Adidas does this right! It makes a great gift! Get it here.

These are all great gift options from Adidas, a well-regarded brand! Happy Shopping!

by Kelly Mattei

Christmas Gifts for Dad

Christmas gifts for dad.

It’s not easy to find Christmas gifts for Dad. Don’t dads tend to get whatever they need when they need it? Therefore, we have to work a little harder for Dad gifts. Here are a few we found:

  • Hey Dude Shoes. Dads love their Hey Dudes! Even young people love their Hey Dudes! I know guys who swear these are the most comfortable, easy-to-wear shoes they have ever owned…guys who go to college with my daughter, so they’re cool…not just Dad-cool. These are popular shoes for a reason. Right now, Hey Dude has some great deals on Amazon for Early Black Friday! Take advantage of the deals now:
    • Sunapee Mesh Sport, starting at $27.46 here.
    • Mens Wally Stretch Poly, starting at $45 here.
    • Mens Wally Sport Mesh, starting at $38.47 here.
    • Mens Wally Amazon Exclusive, starting at $38.99 here.
    • Mens Wally Sport Sneaker, starting at $41.43 here.

  • JBL Earbuds. I have mentioned these in other lists. There are all kinds of JBL wireless earbuds. I prefer the JBL Vibe Bud (Amazon deal here) or JBL Vibe Beam (Amazon deal here), but Dad might prefer the JBL Soundgear Sense, a true open-ear wireless headphone. Lucky you, they’re on sale for an Early Black Friday Deal (33% off!) here.

  • Smokeless Firepit. We have a smokeless firepit, and we love it. We use the Duraflame log in ours, for ease of use, and it provides plenty of warmth and light when we have cocktails on the patio. A 19″ Surestove smokeless firepit is on sale right now through Amazon for 41% off! That means the price is just $94.99 (normally $159.99) at writing, which is almost unheard of. Get it before it’s gone here. And while you’re at it, get him a bunch of Duraflame logs to burn in it here.

  • Amazon Fire TV. I purchased an Amazon Fire TV, because we can take it outside if we want, or we can use it in any room of the house. As long as it connects to WiFi, we can watch it. We have watched countless football games, Netflix shows, and Apple+ series. We treat it as a “portable” TV, because it’s lightweight, but with a 32″ screen, it has a clear picture. Our daughter has one in her bedroom at college and loves it too. Dad might enjoy having his own “portable” TV. Best of all? The price right now, as an Early Black Friday Deal, is $99.99! Get it here.

  • Night Vision Goggles. Men love outdoor toys. They can use these 4K goggles when they go hunting, or they can just use them when they hear something in the yard at night! What a fun gift! Get this Early Black Friday Deal here.

  • Comfier Hot Towel Warmer. Wow. I think my husband would love this. Who wouldn’t love grabbing a warm towel as you step out of the shower?!? Sign me up! Get this special Early Black Friday deal at 42% off for $114.99 here.

  • Bird Feeder with Camera. My dad would have loved this. The older he got, the more he enjoyed watching the wildlife. He could have watched the birds from indoors or anywhere with this bird feeder with camera! Instead of costing $199.99, it’s on sale now for $129.99! It’s the perfect time to purchase! Get it here.

  • Ugg Men’s Tasman Slipper. A perennial favorite, these slippers are awesome and well-made by Ugg. You can’t go wrong with Ugg slippers. Get them here.

  • Samsonite Expandable 20-inch Carry-on. Think Dad needs a new carry-on bag? This Samsonite gets great reviews and is perfect for dad. Get this Early Black Friday Deal here.

  • Tumi Oxblood Men’s Search Backpack. Tumi makes quality products. I have a Tumi crossbody bag I purchased eight years ago that I carry almost daily, and it still looks and functions great. My husband desperately needs a new carry-on backpack for his laptop and a few other items, and I think this one from Tumi will be perfect for him. It’s 25% off at time of writing. It’s pricey, but it’s built to last. Check it out here.

Happy Shopping for Dad!

***I receive commission for items purchased through my Amazon links.***

by Kelly Mattei

Amazon Deal On Beats Studio Pro

Amazon deal on Beats Studio Pro…

An Early Black Friday Deal on Amazon on Beats Studio Pro Bluetooth Noise Cancelling Headphones…starting at just $159.99 (54% off) at time of writing. Get them here. The deep brown ones are priced that low, regularly $349.99! For $249.99, you can purchase white, black, navy, or sandstone!

Get them while the deal lasts! Someone on your list would love to see these under the tree!

***As an Amazon affiliate, I receive commissions for items purchased through my links.***

by Kelly Mattei

Best Items I Purchased On Amazon This Year

Best items I purchased on Amazon this year (so far).

The year’s not over, but for those who might want to do some holiday shopping, I have listed more than 20 of my “best purchases” to share, starting in January of 2024. It’s a big mix of price points and products. You might have seen some of them before, but there are likely some you haven’t seen! These would make great gifts for family, friends, or party hosts/hostesses! Here we go…

  • Amazon Fire TV. I purchased one for my daughter’s bedroom at school and then turned around and purchased one for use on our back patio! At $99 right now, you cannot beat the deal on this Smart TV! Get it here.
  • Bible Jar. It’s a little thing that can make a big difference. I sent one to my daughter, and I sent one to myself too! Inside the jar are Bible verses that are color-coded to your needs. Feeling anxious? Angry? Happy? Sad? Lonely? It’s all there, and you can just pull out a color-coded verse. It makes a great gift. Right now it’s priced under $15. Get it at Amazon here.
  • Lolavie Glossing Detangler. I love this stuff! It makes my hair smooth and shiny, and it doesn’t take much to get the desired effect! I stumbled upon it as a free gift when I purchased something, and then I had to go buy it at Amazon! Get it here.

  • Amazon Essentials Women’s Lightweight Terry Joggers. Y’all, I feel like I’m walking around in my pajamas when I go out in these, but they aren’t pajamas. They’re just that comfortable! Pair them with a tunic sweater, and they’re great for airline travel. Priced at $19. Get them here.
  • Colorful Crystal Hoop Earrings. Sure, I have some nicer earrings, but these are colorful and match almost everything! These are great for travel, because you can wear them with so many things, day or night! They’re priced right at under $15, so if you lose one, you won’t sweat it. In fact, go ahead and buy two pairs on the front end! Get them here.
  • Seekway Water Shoes. I ordered these on a whim right before we went to the Bahamas, and after we got there, I realized how smart I was! Wow! I could walk around the beach and sandbars without worrying about stepping on sharp objects. I love them! They come in lots of colors, and the price is right! Get them here.
  • Foot Massager. This is listed as a foot massager, but it’s more of a TENS machine for the feet, and I love it. It folds up nicely in my suitcase, so I can take it anywhere I go! When I have been on my feet all day, it helps my feet and legs relax. Or if I’m struggling with Restless Leg Syndrome at night, this will sometimes help. Priced under $40, and there’s an 8% off coupon you can use with it at time of writing. Get it here.
  • Neoprene Socks. This goes back to a trip to the Bahamas. I purchased these neoprene socks to wear under my fins when I’m snorkeling, so the fins don’t rub blisters on my heels or toes. They work great, and they’re even helpful when walking on the beach too. Priced under $15 at time of writing. Get them here.
  • Personal Air Cooler. Sometimes, hotel air conditioners just don’t get the job done. A fan helps, but a personal air cooler really helps. It’s the difference in good sleep and no sleep. This one is small enough to fit into my suitcase, and from the nightstand, it blows cool air directly on my face or the back of my neck. I love it. Highly recommend, and it’s 30% off right now! Get it here.
  • Yukon Charlie’s Hammerhead Sled. Greatest sled ever made, if you’re asking me! We have enjoyed Yukon Charlie’s Hammerhead Sleds for years! It’s fast, sturdy, and somewhat steerable. At $199, it’s expensive, but the kids will love it if it snows! Get it here.
  • JBL Vibe Beam or JBL Vibe Buds. I have purchased both of these wireless ear buds, and I love both of them. I guess it’s just personal preference. I can tell you this…I will not purchase any more Apple Air Pods. I lose them too easily, and these are much less expensive and more comfortable. Get the Beam here. Get the Buds here.
  • Stitch Gun, Tagging Gun for Clothes. Y’all, how did I live without this?!?! It has saved me so many times since I purchased it! Dress too low cut? Put a stitch in it! Bra strap keeps showing? Stitch the shirt to it! And yes, i have hemmed pants with it when necessary. Sooo many uses! I love it! Highly recommend! Get it here.
  • Milani Violet Eyelash Primer. I have tried “high dollar” eyelash primers and none have worked as well as this one. This is a secret I almost kept to myself, but you can get it here! It would make a great stocking stuffer!
  • CorDx TyFast 10 Mins Flu A/B & Covid-19 test. Quick and easy! I used this last week when I needed to know if what I had was a cold, the flu, or Covid. It was a cold. I used something similar earlier this year to find out I had flu, but this one is much less expensive. Keep this in your house this winter! Get it here!
  • Window Alarm System 4-Pack. For peace of mind, I got these for my daughter and all her college roommates. It’s easy to install! Get it here.
  • Dr. Barbara Sturm Glow Cream. This is not something I purchased myself, but someone gifted it to me! It’s expensive, but I love it. I use it very sparingly, because it is so expensive. Someone on your list would likely love it! Get it here.
  • Arched Floor Mirror. My daughter needed a full-length mirror for her bedroom in her apartment, and this one does not have to be mounted to the wall. It comes with a stand! Get it here!
  • Round Nightstand Table. When I purchased this for our daughter’s apartment, I thought it was probably going to be junky, but it’s not! She loves it! It required some easy assembly. It looks great in her room! Get it here.
  • Pietro Simone Skincare Dewy Reboot. This serum, while pricy, uses peptides to provide an “intense epidermis reboot.” Love this stuff. A little goes a long way. It would be a great gift for the person who wouldn’t spend it on themselves. Get it here.
  • Rainbow Loom. Hands down, this is one of the greatest inventions ever for kids of all ages. My daughter got her first Rainbow Loom in elementary school. Now that she is a junior in college, she will still pick it up and make some silly rubberband bracelets to relax. It’s a great gift and inexpensive! Get it here.
  • Pawland Wooden Freestanding Pet Gates. My friend, Meg, told me about these when I was complaining about our dogs hanging out in our dining room. These solved the problem! I highly recommend these if you want to make certain spaces off limits to your pets. Get it here.
  • Peter Thomas Roth Instant Eye Tightener. Yes, I bought it, and yes, it works. It’s temporary, but it does work. I had some friends over this summer, and they liked it so much that they went out and bought some too! I haven’t purchased the face tightener, but they said it works too! Get the eye tightener here, and the face tightener here.
  • Hollywood Vanity Mirror. Another purchase for our daughter’s bedroom in her apartment, she uses this every day. Easy setup and operation. Get it here.
  • Credit Card Holder Wallet with RFID protection. I bought one of these for myself when I went to Mexico City earlier this year. Then, one day, my daughter’s friend saw it when we were at dinner, and she loved it! She thought it was a designer label. I ended up ordering them for my daughter and her friend! They make great gifts, and they’re inexpensive. Get the credit card holder here. And the larger credit card wallet here.
  • Thermacell Patio Mosquito Protection. It works! This small machine and its cartridges protect you from mosquitoes. I know, because it even works for me, and mosquitoes seek me out in a crowd! It’s a great gift! Get it here.
  • Deco 79 Recycled Glass Tall Vase. I needed a tall vase for my foyer, and this one did the trick! We love it! Get it here!
  • Meiz Pregnancy Pillow. No, I’m not pregnant. I’m 57, but I love this pregnancy pillow. I have used other brands, but this one is my all time favorite. I sleep so much better with this pillow. The only problem? I can’t travel with it. And yes, it’s also great for pregnant women! Get one here.
  • Lenox Blue Bay Colors Dinnerware. I changed colors in my kitchen this year. I have another “nicer” set of everyday dinnerware, but I wanted to add this to mix and match. I love them. Get them here.
  • Naturalizer Womens Amble Block Heel Loafer. Y’all, these look way more expensive than they are, and I love the tall block heel. They have a little platform, too, so the heel doesn’t feel as tall. I have worn them with pants, but now that it’s getting cooler, I will wear them with dresses and tights too! Get them here.
  • SANTINY Womens Joggers. These are stretchy but look better than joggers, if that makes sense. They almost look like dressier pants. I have them in two camouflage shades and black, and they look great with sweaters or blouses…or even a denim top or jacket. Get them here.

Happy Shopping! All these items have been great purchases (or gifts) for me! ***I might receive commission on items purchased from Amazon through my links.***