Yesterday, mid morning, I was deep into work stuff.  I was entering in a coupon.  For no reason at all I looked up and gazed into the wooded area.  I do that often.  It’s my solace of sorts.  I immediately noticed something there and it was enough to make me get up, grab my camera and take a closer look.  I’ve seen hundreds of deer in my lifetime yet each time I see one, it’s as if I’m seeing my first.  We had a bit of a stare down.  I put my new camera to good use and snapped a few shots…then, back to work.

I grew up in New Hampshire surrounded by lakes and mountains.  Most weekends and lengthy family vacations were spent up north, in the woods and away from most sources of civilization.  Eventually, my parents bought a piece of land 3 1/2 miles into the woods, cleared the land and built a rather large camp.  This was our second home.  We learned early on how to be safe in the wilderness.  It was crucial.  Walking outdoors, especially first thing in the morning or when the sun set, meant coming across unexpected bears or moose.  The grill was continuously being tipped over by hungry bears and, before the screens were put in, a moose had stuck it’s head through the window to look around.

That was my world for most of my life.  At times, I hated it.  What kid doesn’t want to have adventure filled Disney vacation stories to tell, right?  No one in my class really cared that I could make a deer call out of a coffee can and an old leather shoe lace or that I spent hours watching bull moose drink from the marches from 5 feet away.  That wasn’t exciting back then.  Even the teachers had a commiserative tone in response to my “What I Did Over My Summer Vacation” stories.

These adventures and lifestyle didn’t become something monumental until I left my old stomping grounds at the age of 30.  I moved to a rather large city.  I knew within a few days that I had made a mistake.  In the first couple of weeks I was taken on sight seeing journeys of the city.  Fixating on concrete buildings and old portions of the city decorated with graffiti stung and didn’t compare to the natural beauty of mountains, trees and bodies of water.  I craved those tranquil back roads and walks through the uncharted back woods.  I put every effort into seeing the beauty of the city, but every attempt ended in failure.

I was clueless to city life as well.  When people told me I had to be street smart, I thought they were reminding me to look both ways before crossing the street.  The first time I braided my hair and put a bandanna on while tending to my small city yard caused some panic ridden concern.  Several gangs were nearby.  I was instructed not to wear bandannas of any color…EVER!  There was only a certain time during the day where I could take the dog for a walk, but I had to be armed with pepper spray, my cell phone, and eyes in the back of my head.  I also had to get into the habit of not looking at someone, smiling and saying hello.  Making eye contact was a no no.  Excitement didn’t entail seeing a bull moose with a full rack or a family of bears.  I could look out my city window and see two gangs approaching from opposite ends of the street.  I witnessed my first FBI bust complete with agents dressed in black and guns drawn.  I saw prostitutes working the corner in real life rather than on TV.  The list goes on.

I lived in 2 cities in 7 years.  My love of photography went on an extended hiatus for about that long.  My struggle to see the world around me through the lens for any length of time didn’t interest me.  The New England life was in my blood and it was stubborn.  My roots were elsewhere.  They certainly never broke ground in the city.  After 7 years I left.  I remember the plane trip over here.  When I started seeing the mountains and lakes from above I whispered over and over, “I’m home.  I’m home.  I’m home.  I’m home.”  I’m sure the person sitting beside me thought I was a little odd for muttering continuously until I landed, but oh well.

I’m back in my elements.  One of the first things I did within the first couple of days was run to the nearest sandwich shop and order a grinder.  They knew what I was talking about and didn’t look at me funny.  I picked up the camera and started taking pictures again.  Once again, I craved the world behind the lens.  I bolted into the back woods with gusto.  I baked for all the neighbors (something you don’t do in the city).  I ate ice cream on the docks.  Many rides were taken up north.  We visited the Olde Country Store.  I ate aged blackstrap molasses by the spoonful.  Seafood.  Had to have it almost every night.  I was like a kid in a candy store…my candy store being where my roots have always been securely planted.

Things have settled since my arrival back home.  There isn’t anything I miss about city life.  I’m still trying to recover.  I spend a lot of my free time in the woods amongst the wildlife…behind the lens.  I savor those moments where I look up and see a deer on the other side of the window looking at me.  I live for those fiery red and orange sunsets over the lake.  That’s when I get up for a few seconds, even if I’m in the middle of posting a deal or coupon, to breathe it in and capture it behind the lens.  Yep, I’m definitely home.

Sending flowers for any occasion can be stressful whether it’s a birthday or to congratulate someone.  You want to find the best deal, but you certainly don’t want to compromise quality.  I’ve gone through this many times.  I lived out of state for many years and sent family members flowers for birthdays, Mother’s Day, Christmas, Valentine’s Day and get well flowers.  Most of the time everything went smoothly, but there were a few times when I needed to make a few not so happy phone calls to customer service.

Valentine’s Day is right around the corner and one of the top gifts are flowers.  I’m not going to sugar coat anything here.  We all know what happens right around this time.  The cost of flowers, especially roses, blows through the roof.  It’s frustrating.  You want to give the best and impress your Valentine, but the thought of spending a small fortune to send roses makes you cringe.  Don’t fret.  There is hope.  You can stay within your budget and send a gorgeous bouquet of flowers to your Valentine.

First, let’s chat a little about the number one flower for Valentine’s Day…roses.  Before sending roses, you should be aware that there are meanings to the different colors as well as how many you give.  This is important.

• Red – Love, beauty and passion
• Deep Burgundy – Beauty
• White – Purity, innocence and heavenly
• Pink – Appreciation, perfect happiness and gentleness
• Dark Pink – Appreciate and gratitude
• Light Pink – Admiration, sympathy and sweetness
• Yellow – Friendship, promise of a new beginning, welcome back and delight.
• Yellow With Red Tip - Falling in love
• Orange – Desire and enthusiasm
• Red and White – When given together it signifies unity
• Red and Yellow – Happy feelings
• Peach – Appreciation, closing the deal, let’s get together and sincerity
• Coral – Desire
• Lavender – Love at first sight
• Single Rose – Total devotion
• 2 Roses – If entwined together it means “marry me”
• 6 Roses – The need to be loved and/or cherished
• 11 Roses – You are loved and cherished
• 13 Roses – Signifies a secret admirer

Sending roses isn’t cheap, especially around certain holidays, but there are some deals out there to save you a few bucks.  One of the top limited time deals right now is the All In One Valentine’s Day Special at ProFlowers.  Right now you can save $20.00 and it comes with 12 long stemmed red roses, baby’s breath, greenery, an elegant red ruby vase, chocolates and an ‘I Love You’ Pick.  Another great find is a bouquet of rainbow roses for $29.99.  Not only do you save $10.00, but they’ll throw in another dozen for free.

Roses aren’t the only flowers you can send to melt the heart of your Valentine.  Personally, I prefer a mixed bouquet that either includes a few roses or not.  I’m not the only girl out there who finds a mixed bouquet the perfect choice.  Carnations, lilies, daisies, fuji mums, tulips, and snapdragons.  I love them all!  For a limited time save 50% off the All the Frills Bouquet with Square Vase and Chocolates.  You can also save $20 on the Lots of Love Bouquet and it comes with a free vase and chocolates.  Keep in mind that these are limited time offers that can end at any time.  For more great deals on bouquets click here.

There are more deals to be had at 1-800-Flowers if you’re looking to send Valentine’s Day flowers or flowers for any occasion.  You’ll find fresh roses along with a huge selection of mixed bouquets.  With 1-800-Flowers you can choose same day delivery.  A local florist will deliver flowers to the recipient if you choose this option and order before 2 pm in the recipient’s time zone.  Shop now until 2/14 and take $10 off your order of $49.99 or more with a DealTaker Exclusive Coupon or you can take 15% off your Valentine’s Day order through 2/15 with coupon code VAL15.  If you have your flowers delivered February 10th-12th than you’ll get free shipping and no service charge when you use code FREEWKEND12.  This offer expires 2/12.

Another option, if you’re opting to send flowers to someone local, is to check out the florists in your area.  You can make your own bouquet or choose a pre-made one.  What you see is what will be sent.  Typically, shipping charges are lower if you send flowers from a local florist.  If you live out of state, you can look up some local florists in the recipients area and go to their website to order.  You’ll save on shipping charges this way as well.

If sending flowers is not an option, don’t sweat it.  I’ll let you in on a little secret…some of the best bouquets I’ve received have been flowers from the florist section of the local supermarkets.  The flowers are fresh, fully stocked and you can get a huge bouquet for under $20.00.  Flowers are flowers whether they’re sent or hand delivered by you.  It doesn’t matter where they come from…it’s the thought and love behind the gesture.

The Super Bowl is only a few days away!  I know people that eat, breathe and live for this day.  It’s a holiday to them and it’s taken quite seriously.  The earth could be invaded by tiny green people with sharp teeth and laser guns, and it wouldn’t phase them.  Their eyes are glued to the new 60 inch TV and I swear, they don’t blink.

I tend to be one of those people who don’t get overly enthusiastic about the Super Bowl.  You won’t find me in front of the TV for hours.  I won’t be sporting a team shirt or spray painting areas of my body with team colors.  Slathers of black pasty stuff won’t be smeared under my eyes.  I won’t be crushing beer cans with my teeth between plays or ripping off my shirt with a game winning touchdown.

I’m one of those people who simply enjoy the commercials and the food.  I have no shame in admitting that I occupy my time with other stuff while the actual game is being played.  This year, there is a little more excitement in the air because the Patriots are playing and Madonna will be struttin’ her stuff on stage.  I live in New England and it’s all about the Patriots.  I’ve been a long time fan of Madonna since her first video came out on MTV.  Yeah, I remember that.  I’m that old.

The food.  Super Bowl Sunday, in this house, is a day to indulge.  Every year I try something new and put out a few tried and true favorites.  Our taste is definitely pub style food.  This year’s new recipe is Buffalo Chicken Dip from Kevin Lynch of ‘Closet Cooking.’  The picture of this concoction made me salivate uncontrollably.  If this doesn’t tickle your taste buds, Kevin has an entire page dedicated to some serious Super Bowl eats including Pizza Dip, Hot Spinach & Artichoke Dip, Potato Skins, Jalapeno Poppers and 7 Layer Greek Dip.

Another thing I’m tempted to whip up and sink my teeth into are these Ham & Cheese Sliders topped with an addicting glaze.  Rumor has it you can’t eat just two.  I also came across a brilliant recipe idea for Football Meatball Turnovers instead of the usual meatball grinders. The most original recipe I stumbled across was for a Buffalo Chicken Cupcake.  This cupcake has taken the Super Bowl fan world by storm.  I haven’t decided if I’m brave enough to try these yet.

If you’re still looking for ideas, recipes or new things to try, a great place to find them is on Pinterest.  This morning I noticed a HUGE wave of Super Bowl food recipes being pinned.  I imagine there will be tons more in the days to follow.

Aside from enjoying the food, I’ll keep an eye on the commercials and the score.  I’ll be catching up on some serious work stuff and things around the house…a usual Sunday for me.  If it’s nice, I might take a walk in the woods and put my new camera to good use…that’s after I read the directions on how to use it.

What are your plans for the Super Bowl?  We’d love it if you shared some of your favorite Super Bowl recipes!

Imagine an entire wall of bulletin boards.  Each board is labeled with something that interests you.  It could be crafts, recipes, decorating ideas, or simple DIY stuff that makes your life easier.  Now, imagine that your wall is in a room with other walls that belong to other people.  Their bulletin boards are plastered with ideas, tips, pictures, recipes, etc…  You can browse these bulletin boards and if you see something, you can take it and pin it on your bulletin board.  That’s the general idea of Pinterest.  It’s your online bulletin board where the possibilities are endless and people are connected through common interests.

Most of you, I’m sure, have heard of Pinterest.  It’s big.  In the past 6 months it has made the top 10 social networking sites.  Pinterest hasn’t been around for that long, so making the top 10 in such a short period of time is rather remarkable.  According to Wikpedia, the work on Pinterest began in December of 2009.  The following year the site made it’s debut and made registration possible through email invitation.  It caught people’s attention and on August 16, 2001, Time Magazine published Pinterest in it’s 50 Best Websites of 2011 column.

So, what is Pinterest exactly?  It’s a virtual pinboard that allows you to organize and share everything that you find on the web that interests you.  If you see an outfit you really like, pin it.  Found a ‘to die for’ recipe that is a huge hit with the family, pin it.  You can also view pinboards that other people have created as well and, if you come across things that interest you, repin it, like it or comment.

The Pinterest Mission is simple, “Our goal is to connect everyone in the world through the “things” they find interesting.  We think that a favorite book, toy, or recipe can reveal a common link between two people.  With millions of new pins added every week, Pinterest is connecting people all over the world based on shared tastes and interests.”

We at Dealtaker are proud to announce that we have joined the Pinterest community!  Our mission is to share what we’re passionate about and it extends far beyond great deals and coupons.  We’re posting recipes, crafts, tips and advice on living a frugal life (which we happen to find fabulous), lots of stuff for the kids, budget meals, creative ways to repurpose items around the house, etc.  We’ve found some rather amazing people out there who have inspired us with ideas and got our creative juices flowing.

Come join us on Pinterest!  You can find us here!

I’ve always been a bargain shopper and I can honestly say, when I stumble on jaw dropping deals, I still get excited.  On Sunday I took a little break from my usual routine and ventured out for a little dose of retail therapy.  I was running low on my Bath & Body Works and needed to replenish my stash.  My location of choice was the Tanger Outlet Mall in Tilton, NH.  I got that twinge of excitement as soon as we pulled into the parking lot.  The windows of most stores were plastered with clearance signs and banners announcing their end of season sales.

After all was said and done, I was skipping back to the car with a smile on my face.  I took advantage of the 75% off sale at Bath & Body Works as well as other sales they had.  I got $114.00 worth of items for only $34.20.  My other proud moment was the trip to the Bass store.  We walked out of the store with a light winter jacket and a pair of boots for only $64.98.  Both were on clearance.  We saved $144.00.  I had a $75.00 gift card to use at the outlet mall so, that day, our out of pocket spending was $24.18!  I was a happy girl!

I don’t usually shop in-store.  My retail therapy of choice is online shopping.  Sunday, I just had to get away and break from the confines of my desk.  I will say that in the past week I purchased my dream camera online and saved almost $100.  I was going to order it in December, but I knew the price would go down once the end of season clearance and winter sales surfaced.  And, they are surfacing…actually exploding!  If you’ve got some gift cards to spend or you’re looking to save some serious cash on everyday stuff, now is the time to shop.

Where are the sales?  Here are a few…

Cookies Kids – For a limited time save up to 90% off on kids apparel and school uniforms when you shop the clearance pages.  Now through 2/05 if you use coupon code ClearUsOut you can take an extra 10% off your clearance purchase.

Kohls – Shop the biggest Gold Star Clearance and save 60%-80% on apparel for the entire family, home items, shoes and more!  They’ve loaded up the selections, but it goes fast.  Enjoy $0.99 shipping on each item through 2/05 and shipping is free on orders of $75 or more.  Coupons are valid on clearance items as well.

Macys – Shop now during the Fashion Sale & Clearance and save 20%-75% on apparel for the entire family, handbags, shoes, and jewelry.  Shipping is free when you spend $99 or more.

Graveyard Mall - The clearance page is long and you can save up to 90% off or more on just about everything from DVDs to apparel.

Delias – During the Mega Winter Clearance Sale you can grab coats starting at $14.99, boots priced as low as $9.99 and tops starting at only $5.99!  Enjoy free shipping when you spend $25 or more through 2/12 with coupon code DDAW25.

Boscovs – Save big during the Boscovs clearance sale!  You’ll save 60% off fall activewear, up to 62% off misses down jackets, 75% off misses winter sleepwear, robes and loungewear, 61% off Men’s casual pants, 75%-80% off juniors fall fashion hoodies and more!  For a limited time shipping is free when you spend $50 or more.

Cabela’s – Shop the Bargain Cave for clearance deals on winter apparel and boots.  For a limited time you can save up to 72% off winter shoes and shipping is free to your local Cabela’s store.

Shoe Mall – The Winter Sale & Clearance is in full swing and you’ll save big on shoes for the entire family including winter boots and sandals.  Shipping is free on all orders.

Pflatzgraff – Today is the last day for the end of season sale where you can take an extra 20% off clearance items for a total savings of up to 93% off.

Fashion Bug – Over 300 items are on clearance plus you can take an extra 25% off your entire order with coupon FRESHLOOKFB including clearance items.  Select styles of turtlenecks are $10, buy 1 get 1 50% off on bras and take $10 off dresses, jackets and spring coats.  Enjoy free ship to store.

Oneida – Updating the kitchen?  For a limited time shop the dinnerware final clearance and save up to 80% off on over 200 dinnerware sets.  Shipping is free when you spend $99 or more.

6pm – The end of season clothing sale is going on now and you can save up to 90% off on shirts, dresses, sweaters, pants, coats, and much more.  To save you even more money, shipping is free on all orders for a limited time.

Bargain Outfitters – Now is the time to shop for top winter deals and big savings on all your winter gear needs.  You’ll find huge savings on men’s and women’s boots and apparel and everything you need to enjoy winter sports.  Enjoy free shipping when you spend $49 or more with code BH788 (expiration unknown) or take $4.50 off your $45 order with DealTaker Exclusive coupon code BTAKER0112.

Wilson’s Leather – If you’re looking for a great leather jacket, shop the clearance pages and save 60% off original prices.  You’ll find winter jackets for men, women and kids.

To keep updated on the latest and greatest clearance deals and coupons, click here.

The first week of January changed my world a bit.  I became engaged.  The big question was popped.  I said yes.  The first thing we did, that night, was pick a date.  The second thing we did was run to Barnes & Noble the following night.  I was in desperate search for the book ‘From Beginning To End’ by Robert Fulghum.  I read this book the year it was published back in 1995.  It changed my entire perception about weddings.

Prior to reading the book I had wanted that fairytale wedding that so many young women dream about.  I had visions of the long flowing dress, lots of flowers, five star restaurant style food, for everything to go as planned, a cake that left people speechless and for the reception to be at this magical place with lots of sparkling champagne and dancing.  It would be a world within a world that left a lasting impression on all those that attended.

Then, I read ‘From Beginning To End.’  There is one chapter titled ‘Union’ and it’s devoted to describing a simple wedding based on 3 married couples that Robert Fulghum knew.  He played a big role in these wedding ceremonies and the receptions that followed. He took the events of their wedding days and combined them into one.  It made for a thought provoking and beautifully written chapter.  He has a way of shaking up your most stubborn plans and ways of thinking.  When all is said and done and the debris settles, you’re left with a slightly different change of plans.

I needed this book.  Since reading it the first time around, my desire for that fairytale wedding faded.  I wanted simple.  Down to earth.  Comfortable.  Come as you are.  Great homemade comfort foods.  Homemade gourmet cupcakes instead of a cake.  Mason jars filled with simple flowers.  Appetizers before the ceremony so people can meet, mingle and eat.  A bonfire.  Everyone holding a balloon that they let go of to create a bouquet in the sky instead of a handheld flower bouquet.  Thoughtful and crafty goody bags.  That’s what I wanted.

And that’s exactly what we’re going to have.  I’ve been searching the web for ideas and it didn’t take me long to realized that more and more people are gravitating towards this style.  I didn’t have to do much digging to come up with some really great and inexpensive ideas.  This trend is catching on.  Couples are embracing this idea not only to cut back on costs, but to simplify things.  Simple is in.  Frugal is in.  Homemade versus store bought is in.

You can apply these frugal ideas to just about everything…kids birthday parties, entertaining, gifts, graduation parties, etc.  It’s simple and, when all is said and done, you’ll save a considerable amount of money.  There won’t be the stress of blowing through your budget.  In the weeks to come, I’ll unravel some of the ways that you can simplify events and special occasions.  I’ve always been budget savvy, but I have to say, I’ve learned a lot in the past couple of weeks.  Whatever ideas I stumble across is a learning experience for me as well.  People are always coming up with innovative ways to save money and spectacular crafty ideas to replace store bought stuff.  I’m lovin’ it!

And with that, I’ll leave you with some words of advice from Robert Fulghum (which just so happens to be my favorite lines within the pages of ‘From Beginning To End.’)….

“Weddings are a lot like any other occasion in life.  Anything can happen.  The great banana peel of existence is always on the floor somewhere.  Not only that, anything might go right!  Sometimes the unexpected is an unforgettable moment that transforms a standard wedding into a memorable experience.  The sweetest memories are seldom the result of planning.  Forget fashion shows, forget a performance, forget perfection.  Whatever happens gets acknowledged and included.  Whatever happens, we work it in.  Nothing can ruin a wedding if the heart is right.  Nothing can help a wedding that is a military drill.  Relax.  Be here.  Notice each other.  You could walk through fire together.”

I’ve always taken vitamins.  At first, I took them when I remembered…which wasn’t often.  Then, about 4 years ago, a friend suggested I buy a pillbox to keep at my desk.  It would be there each and every day to remind me.  I bought a 7 day pink pillbox and it’s been on my desk ever since.  I take them everyday.   Once, during a weekend trip, I forgot my pillbox and didn’t take them for 2 days.  I could tell the difference.

I encourage people to take vitamins.  Let’s be honest, very few of us ingest the recommended daily allowance of vitamins and minerals.  With busy schedules and our hectic lives, most of us eat on the go and our choices aren’t always the greatest.  We experience sporadic bouts of fatigue throughout the day.  Our energy levels aren’t up to par.  We get sick every other month.  The list could go on.  Vitamins and supplements help us to get in those extra “good things” that our body needs to function at it’s best.

Walking down the vitamin aisle at any store is confusing.  There are a ton of vitamins to choose from and a hundred different brands.  It can give anyone a headache.  What should you take and how much?  That should always be discussed with your doctor.  Never start a vitamin regimen until you’ve checked in with your doctor first.

So, the 4 basics…

Vitamin A – This fat soluble vitamin improves vision, especially at night, and keeps your skin hydrated.  It also helps to maintain healthy hair and immune system.  Vitamin A is typically found in your orange (carrots, cantaloupe, pumpkins, squash, etc) beta carotene foods.  Your body converts this beta carotene into vitamin A.

Vitamin B – There are several types of B vitamins, but the general benefits are that they provide you with energy and healthy looking hair and skin.  Some swear that it curbs PMS symptoms.  I’m still waiting for that one.  If your hair and skin are looking drab and flat, make sure you’re getting enough vitamin B before you run out for pricey hair and skin treatments.  Other benefits includes aiding in protein utilization and the maturation of red blood cells.

Vitamin C – When we get a sniffle or start to feel the flu coming on, we automatically reach for some extra vitamin C.  We should.  It’s one of the leading vitamins for immune support and helps fight cell damaging free radicals.  A lot of your vitamin C pills include Rose Hips.  This helps the body absorb and utilize the vitamin C to it’s fullest potential. One of my favorite ways to get a power punch of vitamin C is drinking Emergen-C.  It’s a powder that you mix with water and chug.  From personal experience it works awesome (results may vary).  Click here to get a free sample!

Vitamin D – Did you know that sunlight is a main source of Vitamin D? This vitamin plays a part in the insulin is regulated in the body.  It also helps to regulate our calcium levels, assist in maintaining a healthy immune system and helps develop strong bones and teeth.

There are too many vitamins to list, but you’ll find some valuable information about various vitamins and supplements at Puritan’s Pride.  I’ve been a customer of Purtian’s Pride for over 3 years now.  I won’t buy my vitamins anywhere else.  Their quality is excellent and I always take advantage of their buy 1 get 1 free or buy 2 get 3 free sale.  I stock up.  Other great places to shop for inexpensive top quality vitamins is Botanic Choice, GNC, and Vitamin World.

I can bake with my eyes closed.  Not that I would.  I’m accident prone and that would not end well for me.  I do love baking though.  It’s a passion of mine.  There are some people, however, who don’t enjoy this pastime for whatever reason.  You might be okay with your lack of baking…most of the time.  However, on special holidays, like Valentine’s Day, you’re wishing that you inherited the master baker gene from your great grandmother.

So, you’ve shopped around for Valentine’s Day gifts for your sweetie, but nothing seems to catch your attention.  You really want to give (or send) some ooey gooey sweetness, but you don’t bake.  No need to fret.  Whether it’s chocolate or indulgent brownies, it’s out there.  Some places are better than others.  We all know that.  It’s like restaurants.  Some are to die for while others you’d rather not go back to.

Edible gifts can be a little pricey and who wants to spend their money on something that’s well…not pleasing to the palette.  I’m here to help you out a bit.  In the past few months I’ve ordered from various gourmet stores.  Now, there are several things you should know.  The first is I’m very picky when it comes to baked goods.  If it tastes like something that’s been sitting on the shelf for weeks, I won’t take bite number 2.  Secondly, I don’t crave chocolate often.  When I do, I like it to be good.  Real good.  Kind of like that ‘bring me to my knees’ good.  And last, let’s face it, ordering gourmet does cost more than homemade or buying it from your local grocer.  I don’t mind splurging once in a while, but when I finish whatever it is I’m indulging on, I want to be able to say, “It was SO worth it.”

With that being said, here are my favorites (so far)…

Dancing Deer – Earlier this month I tried their chocolate chunk and caramel sea salt brownies.  It was love at first bite.  These brownies were right up there with ‘the best I’ve ever had.’  I took pictures of these brownies and blogged about them.  They were that good.  Everything made at Dancing Deer is all natural and made without artificial preservatives.  Their products are baked from scratch and Kosher.  I haven’t tried their cookies yet, but if they are anything like the brownies…wow.  Shop the Dancing Deer Valentine’s Day gift page for gift towers, rose cookie bouquets, gift medleys, and gift baskets.  Prices start at $22.99.  Shop now through 1/28 and get 15% off your entire order with code AF807.  For more coupons, click here.

Fannie May – Not only have I ordered these chocolates for myself, but I’ve ordered them and had them sent as gifts.  The chocolates are that good.  My favorite will always be the solid milk chocolate and that’s what I grab when I’m craving a chocolate fix.  It’s smooth, creamy and the quality is out of this world.  I’ve also sampled the Fannie May Pixies, Mint Meltaways and the chocolate covered cherries.  I could have eaten the entire box.  Order up some Valentine’s Day limited time chocolate assortments.  Prices start at only $7.99.  You can get a hold of some Fannie May coupons here or check their homepage daily for a special limited time coupon.  Another option is to sign up for their email newsletters.  They do send emails with coupons once or twice a week.

Cheryl’s – I’ve made buttercream frosted sugar cookies a few times, but the ones from Cheryl’s blow mine away.  They win!  The frosting and the cookie are perfectly done and melt in your mouth.  These are some of the best cookies I’ve eaten in my lifetime.  Each cookie is individually wrapped so they stay super fresh.  These cookies will melt your Valentine’s heart and satisfy any sweet tooth!  Choose from a wide selection of Valentine’s Day gifts starting at $34.99.  Shipping is free on these Valentine’s Day gifts when you use code VALSHIP (expiration unknown).  You can also opt for a $5.00 Valentine Cookie Greeting.  It includes a heart shaped buttercream frosted cookie packaged in a Valentine Day box.  You’ll also receive a $5 rewards card.  Shipping is free.

Omaha Steaks - Surprise your sweetie with a romantic dinner at home.  The food at Omaha Steaks is amazing.  From their filet mignon to the chocolate lovers cake, you won’t be disappointed.  I order several of their packages  a year plus I send them out as gifts.  The quality and customer service is impressive. I’ve sampled their chicken, seafood, several appetizers, a few side dishes and two of their desserts.  It’s 5 star restaurant food that you can serve at home for a fraction of the cost.  For a limited time you can save some serious cash on select Omaha Steaks combos plus get free shipping and a free dessert.  You can choose from the Caramel Apple Tartlets, Individual New York Cheesecakes or a Chocolate Lovers Cake.  It’s worth every penny.

Don’t forget to check out some sweet deals for Valentine’s day!  Check back often for updated coupons, discounts and special offers.

A couple weeks ago I was roaming through the apparel section of a local department store and some of the summer items had been put out.  The first thing I noticed was that the colors were exceptionally vibrant…almost fluorescent.  I had a flashback to the 80′s when this trend was hot the first time around.  Not only did I feel old, but I added salt to the wound when I  started counting all the trends, novelties, toys, movies and songs that had originated from the 80′s and had already made a comeback.  I lost count.

This year’s prom dress trend is bright, vibrant and sassy!  From bright greens and pinks to bold prints, it’s in and it’s hot!  Pair these up with some bold accessories and you’re ready to walk down the red carpet.

The prom may be 4 months away (give or take a few weeks), but the time to shop for dresses is now!  Where can you scoop up some of the hottest 2012 prom wear at smokin’ hot prices?

Prom Girl – This is your one stop destination for prom dresses.  You’ll find the largest selection of 2012 prom dresses available.  Shop plus size dresses, long dresses, short dresses, and celebrity inspired dresses made by famous designers including Faviana, Sherri Hill, Jovani, La Femme and Flirt.  On a tight budget?  Not a problem!  Check out the sale pages and enjoy prices as low as $28.00!  Browse through 14 pages of prom dresses under $100.

Milanoo – High quality dresses.  Cheap prices.  That’s Milanoo in a nutshell.  Shop over 300 glamorous prom dresses at super low prices starting at just $53.99!  Most dresses come in over 20 choices of colors and sizes are available up to 26.  Have your dress tailor made for only $14.99!

JC Penney – Shop now for the best prices of the season on prom dresses including some that are marked down to $20!  Sizes and quantities are limited so shop early.  You can also bag some free shipping on orders of $69 or more when you use code SHIP69.  Have it shipped to your home (no minimum purchase required) for free with code FREESHIP.  Both are limited time offers.

Kohls – The Prom Shop is open at Kohls and you’ll find the hottest dresses at the lowest prices.  Right now most dresses are on sale and prices start at only $30.99.  Enjoy free shipping on orders of $75 or more.  Sign up for the Kohls email newsletters and you’ll receive money saving coupons from time to time.

Overstock – At Overstock you can shop over 100 dresses suitable for prom.  Prices start at only $28.99 and shipping is a flat rate of $2.95!  Choose from popular brands including Jessica Simpson, Morgan & Co, Hailey Logan, Journee and Wishes.

Macys – Right now a huge selection of Prom dresses are on sale at Macys!  From trendy and unique to classic styles, you’ll find it.  Prices start at $54.99 and shipping is free if you spend $99 or more!

Save big on all your prom planning this year with deals, coupons and sales! Click here for the latest…

Time to plan your Spring Break Vacation!  Make your reservations as soon as possible to save the most money.  Everything gets more expensive the closer you get to the date of your vacation!

A few Top College Student Spring Break Party Destinations: Cancun, Mexico – Panama City Beach, FL – Key West, FL

Cancun is a college student’s top picks for a fun Spring Break – Apple Vacations has a deal ending today (1/19) that gives you 3 nights all inclusive savings starting at $599!

There are even more savings when you use your student card at STA travel – Check out their Florida vacation deals for big savings!

Some awesome family Spring Break destinations: Fort Laurderdale, FL – Orlando, FL – San Diego, CA

A nice place to take the family for fun and sun is San Diego, CA.  The weather is usually mild and the list of activities goes on and on.  Pick and Choose what you’re interested in: Whale Watching, Spending the day at the zoo, Enjoying a Harbor Cruise or maybe just relaxing on the beach with a good book! Check out the great deals available for lodging and flight deals too!

As always, check Dealtaker.com regularly for new Spring Break Deals! And check out this video for more Spring Break Travel Tips:

Share with us! If you know of any good deals or have a great (or not so great) location to share, leave a comment for the community!  We LOVE to hear from you!