How to Save Money on Pets
posted in: Shopping Tips
Any pet owner will tell you that the best thing they ever did was to get a pet. We got … Read More
A Grandfather’s Disney Wish Come True
posted in: Travel tips
At 80, my father-in-law Lou still held on to one wish: to take his grandson, Ari, to Disney World. It was a dream rooted in memories of taking his own son, my husband, decades earlier. But as time passed and his health declined, Lou quietly let go of the idea. He worried he wouldn’t be able to keep up, that he might slow us down, or worse, that he’d be a burden.
Then, during his 80th birthday celebration, we surprised him with the news that caught him completely off guard: we were going to Disney World together. He was completely stunned, visibly moved, and said, “How fast can we get there?” After the shock wore off, he began to worry that, with his legs having deteriorated, he wouldn’t be able to navigate the park. But when we arrived, something shifted. Watching him side-by-side with Ari, taking it all in, I saw such joy on his face. He was happier than I had seen him in years. The dream he had given up on was now unfolding before him.
Here are some tips that made our multi-generational trip stress-free:
Earth Day: Top Picks for Eco-Friendly Foods to Nourish Your Body
posted in: Gift Guides, Shopping Tips
As the demand for sustainable living continues to rise, more consumers are seeking foods and beverages that nourish their bodies and support our planet’s health. Eco-friendly options are becoming increasingly accessible, allowing us to make mindful choices that minimize our environmental impact. In this roundup, we highlight a selection of our favorite eco-friendly foods that prioritize organic ingredients, ethical sourcing, and minimal packaging. These picks taste great and contribute to a more sustainable food system. Enjoy!
Go Green While You Clean: 6 Must-Have Eco-Friendly Products for a Healthier Home
posted in: Gift Guides, Home & Garden
Sustainability is more important than ever, and making eco-friendly choices in our day-to-day lives is one way we can do good for the planet. Traditional home cleaning products often contain harsh chemicals that can be harmful to our health and the environment, so this roundup features a curated selection of eco-friendly home cleaning products that effectively tackle dirt and grime while prioritizing safety and sustainability. From biodegradable detergents to reusable cleaning tools, these innovative solutions will help you maintain a clean home while protecting the Earth for future generations.
Tips for a Magical Multi-Generational Disney Trip
posted in: Travel tips
Once upon a time, a Disney trip meant parents taking their kids to enjoy the magic while grandparents stayed behind. But times have changed, more than 50% of families now travel with both children and grandparents, according to the Family Travel Association’s 2023 survey.
Recently, my husband, our 16 year old son, two cousins, and even Grandma and Grandpa set out on a four day, three night magical adventure to Walt Disney World. With iconic rides, family-friendly meals, and entertainment for all ages, Disney is the perfect destination for a multi-generational trip. However, planning for everyone from grandparents to teens takes some strategy. Here’s how we made it work!
Disney Generations of Joy – Bring the Whole Family Without Breaking the Bank
posted in: Travel tips
There are moments in parenting when you realize time is moving too fast—kids growing up, parents growing older, and you’re caught somewhere in the middle, trying to hold on to it all. That’s why this year, we did something special. We brought the grandparents along on our Disney adventure, three generations side by side, laughing and creating those “remember when…” moments.
It’s not easy to find activities that genuinely delight every age, where no one is just tagging along because “well, it’s fun for the kids.” But that’s the magic of Disney. It’s a place where wonder has no age limit, where parents become kids again, and where grandparents see the sparkle of childhood reflected in their grandchildren’s eyes.
You can make the most of your multi-generational Disney adventure with a little smart planning. Here are some of my favorite money-saving tips to help you stretch your budget and enjoy the magic without the stress.
How to Make the Most of Sephora’s VIB Sale
posted in: Beauty & Wellness, Shopping Tips
Sephora’s VIB Sale is one of the most anticipated beauty events of the year, offering members of Sephora’s Beauty Insider program exclusive discounts on their favorite products. Whether you’re a Rouge, VIB, or Insider member, this sale is the perfect time to stock up on essentials, splurge on luxury items, or try something new. To ensure you get the most value out of this event, here are our tips to maximize your savings and make the most of this year’s Sephora VIB Sale.
Travel Smart: Ingenious Travel Tools You Didn’t Know You Needed
posted in: Gift Guides, Shopping Tips
We love to travel, but jetting off to far-flung destinations can be challenging. From packing woes to getting enough rest on the way, having the right tools can make all the difference between a smooth journey and a rocky one. In this roundup, we’ve curated a selection of clever and useful travel items designed to enhance your experience and make your next trip a breeze!
How to Shop Walmart’s Super Savings Week
posted in: Shopping Tips
Walmart’s Super Savings Week is here, bringing major discounts on a wide range of products. This shopping event runs from March 24 through April 1, exclusively on the Walmart app and Walmart.com, making it easy to save from the comfort of your couch. Shoppers can find fantastic deals across top categories, including household necessities, fashion, and electronics, so it’s the perfect time to grab must-have items at unbeatable prices.
With so many discounts available, it’s essential to plan ahead and take advantage of the biggest savings. This guide will help you navigate the event and make the most of Walmart’s limited-time deals.
How to Make the Most of Amazon’s Big Spring Sale
posted in: Shopping Tips
Attention Amazon shoppers! Amazon’s Big Spring Sale will be March 25-31 this year. The e-tailer promises to offers deals across more than 35 categories, from winter clearance to store away for next year, to just-in-time springtime finds. See below for our five tips on how to save.
How to Make the Most of Target Circle Week
posted in: Shopping Tips
Target Circle Week is one of the best times of the year to score major deals on everything from household essentials to electronics at Target. Whether you’re a seasoned Target shopper or new to the perks of Target Circle, planning ahead can help you maximize your savings and get the best value for your money.
This year, Target Circle Week will take place from March 23-29, offering up to 40 percent off spring fashion, beauty products, appliances, toys, and more. Here’s how to make the most of Target Circle Week and take full advantage of the exclusive discounts.
Pack Light, Stay Fresh: Personal Care Items You Can’t Travel Without
posted in: Beauty & Wellness, Shopping Tips
Embarking on a journey, whether a weekend getaway or a long-awaited vacation, requires careful planning, especially on the personal care front. While taking good care of yourself on the road can be challenging, the right travel-friendly products can make all the difference. In this roundup, we’ve curated a selection of must-have personal care items that are compact, convenient, and even entirely spill-free!
5 Affordable Fashion Trends You Can Rock This Spring
posted in: Beauty & Wellness, Shopping Tips
Spring 2025 is bringing fresh, vibrant fashion trends that are perfect for welcoming the warmer months. But, keeping up with new styles doesn’t have to mean overspending. With a little smart shopping, you can find this season’s trend-setting apparel at a wallet-friendly price point.
Whether you’re looking to totally refresh your wardrobe or add a few key pieces, here are our top five affordable fashion trends you can rock this spring.
Rest Easy: Sleep Solutions for a Good Night’s Sleep
posted in: Shopping Tips, Travel tips
In a chaotic and demanding world, achieving a restful night’s sleep can seem impossible. Fortunately, innovative products can help transform your sleep environment and promote deeper, more restorative slumber. From relaxing beverages to aromatherapeutic products, these carefully selected tools can help you unwind and achieve the rejuvenating sleep you are striving for.
Sleep Tech: As Featured on GMA3
posted in: Shopping Tips
For Sleep Week, Smart Shopping Expert at Trae Bodge joins Eva Pilgrim and DeMarco Morgan on GMA3 to share a selection of her favorite gadgets that will help us wind down after a busy day, block out unwelcome noise, and encourage quality sleep.
Sleep Week: Essential Bedding and Pajama Picks for Restful Nights
posted in: Gift Guides, Shopping Tips
The right bedding, pillows, and pajamas can make all the difference in the quest for a good night’s sleep. With countless options available, finding the perfect combination of comfort, style, and functionality is essential for creating your ideal sleep sanctuary. This roundup features a curated selection to enhance your sleep experience, from cooling sheets to personalized pillows to buttery-soft pajamas.
Travel in Style: The Best Women’s Apparel and Footwear for Your Next Adventure
posted in: Gift Guides, Travel tips
When traveling, the right apparel and footwear can make the difference between an overstuffed suitcase and a streamlined one. In our latest roundup, we’ve curated a selection of must-have items designed specifically for women on the go. From ultra-supportive footwear to the best bra-free tank top, these pieces are perfect for any destination. Whether you’re exploring city streets or relaxing on a beach, our top picks will ensure you look and feel your best while traveling.
Pack Smart: Our Favorite Travel Gear for Effortless Journeys
posted in: Gift Guides, Travel tips
Traveling can be an exhilarating experience, but it can also feel haphazard if you don’t have the right gear.
In this roundup, we explore a selection of top-notch travel accessories, including durable carry-ons designed to withstand the rigors of frequent trips and clever storage solutions for your most precious items. Whether you’re embarking on a weekend getaway or a more extended adventure, our curated collection ensures you’ll travel smart and in style.
Perfect for snacking, celebrating, or preparing for sleep, these foods and beverages go the distance
posted in: Gift Guides, Shopping Tips
Sure, foods and beverages can taste good, but sometimes they do more to stand out from the pack. In the past few months, I’ve had a chance to try some foods and drinks that go the extra mile. Whether they provide additional nutrients or are a solid substitute for something you’re avoiding, I highly recommend adding at least one of these to your pantry.
7 Things to do in Glasgow, Scotland
posted in: Travel tips
When planning a trip to visit my daughter in Ireland where she is attending her frosh or freshman year at Trinity College Dublin, I decided to extend my journey to Scotland. I recently learned via Ancestry.com that I’m nearly 30% Scottish (I hail from the McDonahs), so I’ve been brimming with curiosity about the country. I knew that a trip to Edinburgh, Glasgow and northern townships would cross off a bucket-list destination and make for many wonderful adventures. Plus, traveling in mid-September meant avoiding the crowds of European vacationers in August, while still enjoying touches of sunshine and fewer rainy days than the winter season.
Here I share highlights of my artsy and energetic visit to Glasgow.
