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What Parents Need To Know Before Their Kid Applies to A Music Conservatory or College

Applying for a music school is an exciting process for both students and parents.

However, it can also be a daunting one, especially when considering the time, resources, and money costs involved. I know because I just underwent the process with my child who applied to five music schools including one conservatory thought he toured three during his journey.

Because I didn’t find a single article or video on YouTube detailing the process for parents, who are likely the ones that would have to foot the bill and arrange the travel for the music school and conservatory audition process, I decided to record my own.

In addition to the video above, here is a summary of the music school application process and what parents need to know to make informed decisions based on my independent research, communication with other music parents online and experience with my son and trial and error.

BEFORE YOU APPLY

Before your child applies, you, as the parent need to make sure that you and your child understand what’s involved. There are additional costs, time and resources you will need to expend.

The Time Committment

First, it’s important to understand that the music school application process can be time-consuming.

Sample Lessons

A year or two before auditioning, your child should conduct some research to determine who is the professor or instructor teaching the instrument or in charge of the vocal studios at the various music schools and conservatories.

Then, they should check out their websites to see if the profs offer camps, workshops or more and/or offer sample lessons. If they do, take them. These offer your child an opportunity to realize if they have a good vibe or connect well. Unlike high school and college, your child will be spending most of their time in college with this person so if there is not a connection there with this person, they have NO business appling to their studio.

[CREATIVE WAYS TO REVEAL YOUR CHILD’S COLLEGE DECISION]

My son actually decided against applying to one conservatory after taking a sample lesson with the professor for his instrument.

Preparing for Audition

Depending on the school, students may be required to prepare for and attend auditions, submit recordings or videos, write essays, and complete interviews.

This can take several months of preparation and planning, so it’s essential to start early. My son has a private tutor who used to cost about $70 per month to see him in person and/or virtually 1-2 times each month. But by the time he was done, sessions increased to multiple times each week and the last bill was close to $1,000 for that month.

If your child doesn’t have a private tutor, he/she/they should get one becaue they will be competiting for spots with kids who do have one. And for us, it was worth the investment because he got two full tuition merit scholarships for music. It took talent and the aid of the tutor to get there.

The Application Process

To begin the application process, parents and students should research the different music schools and their requirements. Each school has its own set of admission criteria, including specific academic requirements, musical skills, and personal qualities

Some schools may also have a minimum age requirement for applicants, so it’s important to check the age limit before applying.

Once parents and students have identified the schools they want to apply to, they should start preparing for the audition or evaluation process.

This may include practicing their musical skills with their private instructor, researching and learning about the school’s faculty and program, and preparing a repertoire for the audition.

It’s important to note that the resources required for the application process can vary greatly depending on the school.

[WHAT TO PACK TO GO TO COLLEGE]

The Cost of Applying to Music Schools

Some schools may require students to submit professional-grade recordings, which can be expensive to produce. Additionally, as stated above, private lessons and coaching sessions with instructors can be costly.

Parents should also be aware of the financial costs of attending a music school.

The Travel Costs

Something that is not talked about is the amount of travel required once a child passes the pre-screen process. For live auditions, they’ll have to travel all over the country and this require transportation, lodge and meals which can add up.

Tuition fees for music schools can be expensive, and parents should be prepared to pay for instrument rentals, sheet music, and other materials.

In some cases, financial aid or scholarships may be available, but these can be competitive, and students may need to demonstrate exceptional talent and academic performance to be considered.

Tutoring, Instruments, Lessons, Camps

Finally, parents should also consider the long-term commitment required to attend a music school.

Studying music is a rigorous and demanding pursuit that requires significant dedication and practice time. Parents should be prepared to support their child’s musical development and ensure they have access to the resources and support they need to succeed.

Applying to a music school can be an exciting and rewarding experience for both students and parents.

However, it’s important to be aware of the time, resources, and money costs involved in the application process. By starting early, researching schools, and preparing thoroughly, parents can help their child navigate the application process successfully and set them up for success in their musical pursuits.

15 Creative Ways to Announce A College Decision

National College Decision Day is May 1.

It’s the day when most colleges and universities require admitted students to have submitted their intent to enroll. That is also the date that high school seniors around the globe announce where theywill attend in the fall.

These days, college announcements can be as simple as a social media post to a full video and photo shoot produced by professionals. It runs the gamut.

In 2018 and again in 2020, I shared blog articles with creative ideas. I’ve updated those posts this year with a few new ideas I’ve seen since then.

These are some of the most creative college decision announcements and tips for students and their families who want to come up with their own unique announcements.

Here are 15 creative ideas to announce your college decision:

1. Create a video announcement. 

By far, the most labor intensive, and arguably the most expensive is to have a professional grade video announcement like the one this young lady in the video above (I beg your indulgence in advance on some of the language and slurs in the song choice of her videos which may be offensive to some). Same with this popular one for years ago.

A video announcement is a great way to share your news with friends and family.

And you don’t necessarily need to hire a company to create one for you either. These days, video editing programs on your phone or computer like iMovie or Windows Movie Maker are all you need. However, a lot of those are pretty basic.

If you want fancy transitions, pre-designed animated graphics, and other creative, modern and interactive effects, consider some of the drag-and-grop mobile video editing apps that come with these tools.

Mobile apps like CapCut and inShot have template text and graphics.

To get an even more polished look, consider investing in a desktop software and apps like Wondershare Filmora, Camtasia, FinalCut Pro or inVideo. There are a lot of drag and drop desktop tools as well like Animotica, ClipChamp, and more. I’ve used all of these and think any would do thr trick!

Download an easy, intuitive, simple video editor to make your college reveal video using templates, drag and drop tools .

2. Confetti Announcement in Social Media

You don’t have to do an elaborate video at all! You can pull together something as a simple vertical video you shoot with your phone camera and post in social media to your family and friends.

Select a nice location, on a college campus, preferably, grab a broom and dustpan for collecting the confetti afterwards, then at the count of three, have family members gathered behind you pop the confetti as you reveal a shirt or letter or other memorabilia getting colorful confetti in the school colors.

See an example below:

You can buy the poppers in bulk starting as low as $10 for a pack of 6 on Amazon.

3. Balloon Reveal

This one is an idea straight from those uber popular “gender” reveal parties.

If you’re wavering between two different schools with distinct school colors, purchase some neutral colored balloons (such as black, white, gold, or silver).

Before filling them with helium, have the store stuff them with your college’s colors. When you’re ready to make your big announcement, gather the family and pop the balloons. Seeing that green and white for Michigan or the blue and gold for UCLA may just make their day!

Watch then high schooler Jenna Simacek do this reveal with her family on YouTube

You can do it yourself too with one big balloon!

Buy a Graduation Balloon or a plain black balloon that you can write on with a metallic marker. Then stuff it with powder, confetti or glitter that matches your school’s colors. On the count of three, pop to reveal the school colored confetti.

4. Collage

The simplest and most easy way to reveal which college your teen has gotten into and perhaps the final decision is through the popular collages you might have seen on Facebook or Instagram.

In the collage, you can highlight the final pick in a different color or size compared to the other schools.

To create your own, simply do a Google images search for the official seal of each school and download it do your computer.

Use a free tool like Canva to find the perfect template then drag and drop the seals around a large photo of your child.

5. The Vintage Pennant Hang

Here is another super creative idea.

As you apply to colleges, purchase a pennant at each school and hang them in a row. When it’s time to tell your parents or friends which school you’ve decided on, one-by-one take away each pennants until you’re left with a winner.

The alternative if you cannot find pennants for the schools you have applied to and create your own pennants with letters spelling out your winning school.

6. The Superman Reveal

If you’re holding out until graduation to tell your friends and more distant relatives, there is no better time to make your announcement than right after you receive that high school diploma!

Consider wearing your college’s shirt underneath your cap and gown.

When you have graduated, dramatically open your robe to reveal the name of your new school! You could also do this at a reveal party as this proud student did a few years back in a clever reveal (see video below)

It’s a great transition point and a way to say you’re ready to conquer the next school on your list.

7. Cupcakes

The cupcake reveal is very popular. Simply bake cupcakes. Download a logo from each school and cut into a circle and paste behind a cardboard. Tape a toothpick to the back and stick into each cupcake.

8. Cake Pops

You can do the same as the cupcake but with cake pops but you might have to get creative if you don’t have a baker to help you create the branded sheets.

A college reveal cake pop is a small, bite-sized dessert that is similar to a cake pop but with a special surprise inside. Like a regular cake pop, it starts with a ball of cake crumbs and frosting, formed into a round shape and attached to a stick or skewer.

The surprise comes when the cake pop is bitten into, revealing a brightly colored cake interior that matches the school colors. This effect is achieved by layering different colored cake crumbs and frosting in the center of the cake pop, which is hidden by the outer coating.

9. A Cake

A college reveal cake is a unique way to announce the school choice of a student who is about to begin their college journey. The cake is typically made with a neutral-colored frosting on the outside, such as white or beige, and decorated with the student’s name and graduation year.

The inside of the cake is where the surprise lies. When the cake is sliced open, it reveals layers of brightly colored cake that match the school colors of the chosen college. For example, if the student has chosen a college with blue and yellow as their school colors, the inside of the cake may reveal alternating layers of blue and yellow cake.

The colors of the cake are a fun way to celebrate the student’s decision and show school spirit. The cake can be a simple single-layer cake or a more elaborate tiered cake, depending on the preferences of the student and their family.

Overall, a college reveal cake is a fun and festive way to celebrate a student’s college decision and create a memorable moment for all involved

9. Bed party

A Bed Party involves the soon-to-be graduate take a photo of themselves on their bed all decorated out in the colors and paraphanalia of the school of choice!

Now an elaborate Bed Party can get expensive if you purchase branded items from each school. You can cut corners by buying snacks in the school color instead and just hanging a few branded items like this guy did below:

10. Signing Day

The baseball cap reveal is also becoming popular.

It is similar to how high school athletes reveal their school of choice during “National Signing Day” each year. Who says, non-athletic recruits couldn’t do the same thing, hence why National Decision Day was born.

With this idea, purchase baseball caps of each school and arrange them on a table, then film yourself or gather your parents and family and eliminate a cap as you explain why you removed that school from your list.

Until you get to the final one. Popular YouTubers Baily and Bailey did their reveal this way and was featured in the Daily Mail.

11. Simple Reveal

A very simple thing is to post a piece of memorabilia from the school such as a key chain or bumper sticker and share it on social media.

12. T-Shirt

Post a photo of yourself on National Decision Day wearing the T-Shirt is a super simple easy way for a college-bound senior to reveal their decision.

13. Photo Shoots

Photo shoots are very popular and with the say modern phones are set up, you don’t even need a professional photographer.

The photo shoot can take many different forms, from a simple portrait session to a more elaborate production that incorporates props, costumes, and creative settings.

One popular approach to college reveal photo shoots is to incorporate the school’s colors and mascot into the images. This can be done through clothing, accessories, and even makeup and hair styling. For example, the student might wear a shirt or hat with the school’s logo, or use face paint to create a design that represents the school’s mascot.

Another option is to use props and signs that reveal the college decision in a fun and creative way. This might include holding up a sign that says “I’m going to XYZ University!”, or posing with balloons or other decorations in the school’s colors.

The location of the photo shoot can also be customized to fit the student’s preferences and the chosen college. For example, the shoot might take place on the college campus itself, or in a location that is representative of the school’s city or state.

14. Reveal Party

You can get as elaborate as hosting a College Decision Reveal party as well.

A college reveal party is an event where a high school student announces their college decision to friends and family. The party is typically held after the student has received acceptance letters from all the colleges they have applied to and has made their final decision.

The party can take many different forms, from a casual gathering with close family and friends to a larger, more formal event. Some students choose to host a themed party that incorporates the colors or mascots of the college they will be attending, while others opt for a simple celebration with food and drinks.

The main event at a college reveal party is the announcement of the student’s decision. This can be done in a variety of creative ways, such as with a cake that is decorated in the school’s colors or with balloons that are filled with confetti in the school’s colors. The goal is to make the announcement a fun and memorable moment that celebrates the student’s achievement and sets the tone for their next chapter in life.

These were very popular pre pandemic and tapered off but are rising in popularity again.

One of my faves is Asya’s reveal because of the surprise in the end.

Watch it above.

15. Smoke Bombs

A smoke bomb in the selected school colors can be part of a social media or photo shoot reveal.

A smoke bomb in college reveal is a colorful and dramatic way to announce a student’s college decision. The smoke bomb is typically ignited in a public place, such as a park or a beach, and the resulting colorful smoke reveals the chosen college by displaying its colors.

To create a smoke bomb for a college reveal, a special type of smoke bomb is used that is typically sold in stores that sell fireworks or party supplies. The smoke bomb is usually cylindrical in shape, with a fuse at one end. When the fuse is lit, the smoke bomb emits a large cloud of colorful smoke for several minutes.

To incorporate a smoke bomb into a college reveal, the student typically chooses a smoke bomb in the colors of their chosen college. When it’s time for the reveal, the student or someone assisting them lights the fuse of the smoke bomb, and the cloud of colored smoke is released into the air. As the smoke clears, the colors of the chosen college are revealed, creating a dramatic and exciting moment.

There you have it! 15 super creative ways to announce a college reveal! Which is your favorite! Which will you choose?

My Winter Holiday Wish List

This Christmas, I’m feeling for warmth and luxe. I put together my wish list for the body and for the home.

I personally hand selected each item on each list that I think would be wonderful gifts to anyone you know and love who enjoy fine things.

What a way to celebrat them and let them know you had them in mind this year.

Happy Holidays, Merry Christmas, Happy Haunukah! Peace and Joy for the entire holiday season to you and yours.

For the Body

(powered by Shopstyle Collective)

Click item to Explore/Learn More

For the Home

(powered by RewardStyle)

Click item to Explore/Learn More

TOP ATHLEISURE BRANDS TO SHOP OTHER THAN LULULEMON

This Year, athleisure and loungewear will be big but there are other options to Lululemon

It’s official. With rising cases of the novel coronavirus, a lot of us will not be going anywhere this Winter to stay safe. In fact, everyone may be holed up at home.

The new normal for the season

As a consequence of the ongoing pandemic, a lot of restaurants, entertainment and other activities have been canceled, postponed or suspended. This shift will leave little opportunity for people to dress up. Alternatively, this opens up a market for the leisure wear industry.

Therefore, people will be trading in their club wear for sweats. If you’re considering getting clothing for a significant other, sister, teacher, nanny or sitter, friend or any other woman on your holiday shopping list this year, I’ve got the run down on the top brands in this sector of the fashion industry.

Lululemon isn’t the only game in town

Arguably, Lululemon is the most well known brand of athleisure, yoga and lounge wear but it is quite costly. It has a problematic history but still remains the go-to source.

But there are other options. Here are afew

ADAY adopts a ‘less-is-more’ approach and a design ethos based on seasonless pieces and sustainability to offer everyday, athleisure-inspired clothes that are both performance-driven and stylish.

Every ADAY piece of clothing features novel technical material properties (sweat-wicking, quick-drying, UV- and chlorine-protected and wrinkle-free).

Alala is a super trendy New York City-inspired luxury activewear brand.

The Ivory Lane Collective, or IVL Collective for short, is fastly becoming a leader in women’s athleisure wear. Their activewear collection includes everything from cute leggings to tanks, tees, and jackets.

Nike One of the most successful and recognisable sportswear brands in the world, Nike offers everything from quality shorts and t-shirts to shoes and socks that are both fashionable and functional. The brand also sells a lot of high-quality gym gear for your home..

Athleta (by Gap) The Gap-owned fitness brand Athleta offers stylish athleisure wear for women and girls for a variety of activities including yoga, running, swimming, and hiking.

Fabletics Kate Hudson’s fitness fashion brand Fabletics features a collection of comfortable workout and athleisure clothing. This American retailer sells sportswear, footwear and accessories.

THE 32 BEST ENGAGEMENT GIFTS FOR COUPLES IN 2022

We found options for every type of couple at every budget.

Getting engaged is one of those magical life moments that’s worth celebrating, and showering the happy couple with a sweet gift is a great way to share in their joy.

However, finding a good engagement gift can be quite the challenge, especially if you want to impress them with cool finds. Luckily, we did some digging to find some cool gifts for couples that are getting ready to tie the knot.

Whether you’re shopping for a personalized memento, a household essential or a splurge gift you can go in on with a group, Shop TODAY has rounded up 32 of the best engagement gifts that any couple would be thrilled to receive.

Check out our top picks

Meural Smart WiFi Digital Photo Frame

$299.95

Digital photo frames are always a great gift option, but this one takes things up a notch. After connecting an Apple or Android device to the frame, couples can upload, crop and display their most precious memories. Perfect for family gatherings and wedding festivities, the frame lets lovebirds curate their photos into personalized playlists and has a crisp HD screen.

Personalized Wedding Box

$66.00

Every couple needs a special keepsake box to help them store love letters, jewelry and more. This gorgeous option comes in several wooden finishes and can feature a custom engraved message that’s unique to the couple.

Couples Engagement Gift Box

$59.99

Not sure what to get the lovebirds? Get them a little bit of everything with this gift box that includes a ring dish, frame, luggage tags, a candle and more.

Back to School: Affordable Laptop for College Bound

For the college bound Freshman (and his/her parents), it is no secret that college can be expensive. From tuition and fees to books and supplies, there are a lot of costs associated with higher education. But one cost that is often overlooked is the cost of a laptop.

A laptop is essential for completing assignments, connecting with professors, classmates and friends and family back home and for taking notes.

It can be a pricey purchase especially if you are a design or computer science major which means you may need a device capabable of accommodating the memory of graphic design software or for coding. But most majors only require the basics.

Battery life: It needs a good battery life for times when you’re not near an outlet like in class.

Display -You’ll want a decent display if you will be spending a lot of time staring at your screen.

Keyboard: You’ll need a comfortable keyboard given all the typing you’ll be doing.

Weight and portability – Having a laptop that can be carried in a backpack all day is clutch

Durability – You will need one that will stand the test of time and can get dinged and beat up from the hustle and bustle of running to class, dropping your backpack on the ground and more.

Processor: Students need a laptop that can handle all of their coursework and assignments. Chromebooks can get by with a fairly low-powered CPU and a basic Intel Celeron processor will do.

If you’re interested in an economically priced laptop or Chromebook that you can take with you to college, or send off with your child if you’re a caregiver or parent, then I highly recommend the HP 360.

When I sent off my now college Junior a few years back, we researched this laptop and settled on it for several reasons.

First of all, it’s lightweight, and the screen is 14 inches. It has lots of ports for your wireless mouse adapter, SD card, power cord, headphones and more.

What I really loved about it and what makes it really stand out is that he has 360 If you’re out and about and doing field work, you can flip it around and hold it like a notebook— a real one!

It has a touchscreen as well. That’s the second thing that’s amazing about it. I prefer a mouse myself to a mousepad and so in those moments when I forget my mouse at home, I love the option of using the touchscreen to naviate around the laptop.

I liked the sleek design and and I go tit in white! You can add stickers to it if you want to customize it too an dit is economically priced at $399!

It’s availalbe at Amazon, Best Buy, Walmart and more retailers!

GET THE HP 360 CHROMEBOOK

Starting at $299

photo of a laptop, a slice of pie on a plate and a re headhphone connected to an apple iphone face down on the floor next to a laptop near an open window

Amazon PRIME Day Deals and Wish List

Today and tomorrow, July 11 and 12, is Amazon PRIME Day 2022. All around the web, you’re probably seeing your fave creator, influencer or website sharing deals.

This year, I decided to do something different and promote just two things: 1) the products I have already and love and think you should consider investing in; and 2) my wishlist of items that I really truly want to get and most likely will soon be investing in for myself.

What I have and love.

First, I want to share that we are among the 200 million PRIME members worldwide. We save hundreds each year and thousands over the years on shipping costs. With PRIME, you pay nothing for two day shipping. You also have extra benefits when shopping at Whole Foods supermarket. We live steps away from our local market so as you can imagine, we are there saving every day.

If you would like to test out the benefits for 30 days, do so by clicking HERE!

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Fire TV Stick 4K streaming device with latest Alexa Voice Remote (includes TV controls), Dolby Vision

We are a family that is usually late to all the technology. We only recently got our first Amazon personal assistant like the Echo or Dot. We use it almost everyday to play music while we cook or clean around the house. We ask it to help with basic homework questions, to check the weather and give us the traffic report. It’s a lifesave and a great investment

Get it Today only for $24.99 down from $49.99

Pick up the Firestick Lite for just $11.99 down from $34.99

Echo Dot (4th Gen) | Sleek design with full sound, Bluetooth, and Alexa | Charcoal

We were late to the game when it comes to investing in a home personal assistant device like Alexa. Since we purchased our first one a year ago, life hasn’t been the same. We use our Alexa dot to stream music while we cook or clean the house, to help answer basic questions while working on homework or other work tasks, including simple calculations or geography questions. She gives us the weather forcast and traffic outlook. It’s a lifesaver. If you’re a late bloomer like us or simply want another echo for another floor or room in your home, consider getting it today.

Get it Today only for $19.99 down from $49.99



Ninja AF101 Air Fryer, 4 Qt, Black/gray

A few years ago, we jumped on the AirFryer trend and believe me, it will also change your life, especially if you are interested in eating less fried foods. This Ninja airfryer will fry potatoes, onion rings, and even roast meats, bake fish and more. It saves time with dinner prep and is just a total lifesaver and must have for any family. Shucks, if you live at home and are always on the go or busy, you could use an air fryer too.

Get it Today only for $94.99 down from $129.99

Now that I’ve shared the things I have a love and use, time to share my wish list of things I want to invest in this PRIME Day!

Ring Video Doorbell 

We live in an old house and the doorbell has been disabled for a while but the door knocker works fine and our door is relatively new. Still, I want all the perks of a Ring:

  • 1080p HD video doorbell with enhanced features that let you see, hear, and speak to anyone from your phone, tablet, or PC.
  • An update from the original Ring Video Doorbell, enjoy improved motion detection, privacy zones and audio privacy, and crisper night vision.
  • Receive mobile notifications when anyone presses your doorbell or triggers your built-in motion sensors.
  • Powered by the built-in rechargeable battery or connects to existing doorbell wires for constant power.
  • Easily setup by connecting your Ring Video Doorbell to wifi through the Ring app and mounting with the included tools.
  • With a Ring Protect Plan (subscription sold separately), record all your videos, review what you missed for up to 180 days, and share videos and photos.
  • Pair with select Alexa-enabled devices to enable announcements and two-way talk for convenient in-home monitoring.

Get it Today only for $79.99 down from $99.99



iRobot Braava jet m6 (6012) Ultimate Robot Mop-

We do not live in a home with carpets, only hardwood floors and it gets dirty often. I sweep on the hour these days, especially not that the kids are home. However, I do not mop that often and I think this iRobot mopper is perfect for keeping our floors clean! I can’t wait to get this and I might even buckle down and get a Roomba to sweep which is $70 today. GET THE DEAL!

Get it Today only $299 – Down from $499, a saving of over $200!



iWaterpik Cordless Advanced Water Flosser

We do not live in a home with carpets, only hardwood floors and it gets dirty often. I sweep on the hour these days, especially not that the kids are home. However, I do not mop that often and I think this iRobot mopper is perfect for keeping our floors clean! I can’t wait to get this and I might even buckle down and get a Roomba to sweep which is $70 today. GET THE DEAL!

Get it Today only for $59 – Down from $99, a saving of $40!





Beats Studio Buds – True Wireless Noise Cancelling Earbuds 

We do not live in a home with carpets, only hardwood floors and it gets dirty often. I sweep on the hour these days, especially not that the kids are home. However, I do not mop that often and I think this iRobot mopper is perfect for keeping our floors clean! I can’t wait to get this and I might even buckle down and get a Roomba to sweep which is $70 today. GET THE DEAL!

Get it Today only for 99.95 – Down from $149.95, a saving of close to $50!





YOSUDA Indoor Cycling Bike Stationary Bike

We do not live in a home with carpets, only hardwood floors and it gets dirty often. I sweep on the hour these days, especially not that the kids are home. However, I do not mop that often and I think this iRobot mopper is perfect for keeping our floors clean! I can’t wait to get this and I might even buckle down and get a Roomba to sweep which is $70 today. GET THE DEAL!

Get it Today only for $259.36 – Down from $439.99 a saving of close to $200!





Apple Watch Series 7 [GPS 41mm] Smart Watch w/ Green Aluminum Case with Clover Sport Band.

We do not live in a home with carpets, only hardwood floors and it gets dirty often. I sweep on the hour these days, especially not that the kids are home. However, I do not mop that often and I think this iRobot mopper is perfect for keeping our floors clean! I can’t wait to get this and I might even buckle down and get a Roomba to sweep which is $70 today. GET THE DEAL!

Get it Today only for $279 – Down from $399, a saving of close to $130!

23 & Me DNA + Ancestry Kit

Irrespective of how controversial DNA and ancestry testing kits have become, I am still quite curious and interested in learning if there are clues in my and my family DNA to genetic abnormalities that I should be aware of and take precautions over.

Get it Today only for $98.99 – Down from $199, a saving of over $100!

Dorm Essentials

Because I have a kid in college, one on his way there in a year and loads of friends and family with college-bound kids throwing trunk parties for their children, I look forward to exploring the many home, kitchen and bathroom deals.

Swimming Essentials

My family is a soccer and swimming family. Those are the two main sports that our school aged children partake in so we are always on the hunt for swim goggles, jammers, swimsuits and swim bags. I plan to dig into the Swimming page and deals today and tomorrow.

Baby and Nursery Deals

Best Graduation Gift Ideas They Actually Want

It’s graduation season and many family members, aunts, uncles, friends. grandparents and the like are scrambling about to figure out the best gift to give to a graduate. If the parentt or graduate has established a 529 or college fund, you can contribute to that.

Also, trunk parties are back in trend. These events feature parents hosting a gathering for close friends who bring items that the graduate will need for college or their next stage in life for a dorm or apartment.

But if you plan to be at a graduation or a gradution party, you might want to take something with you or send a gift to celebrate the commencement.

Here are some ideas and suggestions to get you started.

Cash

The absolute best thing to give any graduate in 2022 and beyond is cash. Fortunately, we live in a world where things like CashApp, Venmo and Zelle exist. The best thing about cash is that, unlike gift cards, they are less likely to get misplaced, lost or forgotten about. A gift of cash deposited straight into the graduate’s bank account can be used immediately, during post graduation vacations and festivities, or saved for college or apartment shopping later.

Everyone loves cash and no one will begrudge you for not purchasing an actual gift that they may not even like or want.

Gift Card

The next best thing is a gift card to a shop, online marketplace or restaurant that you know the graduate frequents or loves. They are more likely to keep tabs on that card if it is from a fave of theirs. Alternatively, you can give an Amazon gift card because the online retailer sells everything. And with a digital card, you don’t even have to be at the graduation ceremony or send a physical card in the mail.

Get Amazon

Personalized Gift

A graduate is certain to appreciate the thoughtfulness of a personalized gift. A keychain, custom gift box, personalized necklace, monogram weekender bag or a coffee mug with their name on it. Such gifts reflect throughtfulness and forethought.

Financial Literacy Book

After high school or college is the first time that a lot of young people are responsible for themselves and their own finances. Sadly, a lot of schools do not prepare adolescents and young adults for financial management and planning. A book or a set of books like “Why Didn’t They Teach Me This In School?” with 99 personal management principles can help.

women's history month

Study Skills/Self Care/ Daily Devotions

Depending on how close you are to the graduate and how much of their personal story you are familiar with, you might consider picking up a book that will help them be better students in college, or will help them take better care of their mental health and take more breaks, or get them closer to their Faith.

I hope these suggestions are good enough to get you a head start!

Limited Quantity: Where to Order Your Stand Mixer Before Christmas

PHoto of a Kitchen featuring various appliances, glass jars, food processors, blenders and a stand mixer Graphic in a blog article about ordering stand mixers which are in limited quanity because of pandemic pipeline shortages and may not be available soonl

Stand mixers are among the list of coveted items that will be very difficult to get this year. If you have a baker, a foodie, aspiring chef, or other family members who has their eye set on a stand mixer, now is the time to order it for them.

If you do not want to risk a backorder of this item, consider the following sites that currently have stand mixers available.

Kitchenaid Classic Serices 4.5 Stand Mixer Graphic in a blog article about ordering stand mixers which are in limited quanity because of pandemic pipeline shortages and may not be available soonl

Kitchenaid Classic™ Series 4.5 Quart Tilt-Head Stand Mixer

Whether you need 8 dozen of your signature chocolate chip cookies or several pounds of shredded chicken for Taco Tuesday, the KitchenAid® Classic Plus™ Series 4.5 Quart Tilt-Head Stand Mixer has the capacity for every occasion. This durable tilt-head stand mixer was built to last, and features 10 speeds to gently knead, thoroughlymix and whip ingredients for a wide variety of recipes and comes in a variety of colors to perfectly match your kitchen design or personality. Get creative and make more with your mixer with over 10 optional hub-powered attachments, from food grinders to pasta makers and more. 

$299.00

Cuisinart Precision Master 5.5 quart stand mixer in Graphic in a blog article about ordering stand mixers which are in limited quanity because of pandemic pipeline shortages and may not be available soonl

Cuisinart® Precision Master™ 5.5 qt. Stand Mixer in Brushed Chrome

Cuisinart is changing the way the world mixes! Make a cake or bake the extra batch of cookies for dessert with the Cuisinart Mixer. Meals to be prepared in large quantities are no match for the 5.5 qt. capacity stand mixer.

  • Large 5.5-quart, stainless steel bowl
  • Powerful 500-watt motor handles the heaviest mixing tasks
  • Die-cast metal construction
  • 12 speeds for precision mixing
  • Tilt-back head allows easy access to the mixing bowl
  • Includes
    • Chef’s whisk
    • Flat mixing paddle
    • Dough hook
    • Splash guard with pour spout
  • Power outlet for use with optional attachments
  • Instruction and Recipe Book included
  • Limited 3-year warranty
  • Additional Accessories (Not Included) – Pasta Extruder, Pasta Roller & Cutters, Ice Cream Maker, Meat Grinder

$249.00 (TAKE Additional 20%OFF)

Frigidaire stand mixer Graphic in a blog article about ordering stand mixers which are in limited quanity because of pandemic pipeline shortages and may not be available soonl

Frigidaire 4.5 Liter Capacity Retro Stand Mixer Pink

FRIGIDAIRE’S Retro Pink Electric Stand Mixer offers all-metal durability and planetary mixing action for complete bowl coverage – the mixing head spins as it rotates completely inside the bowl, allowing better mixing than traditional 2-beater stand mixers. There’s no need to stop and scrape ingredients from the side of the bowl. Eight settings give you maximum versatility and precise control at every speed. Adding ingredients while preparing a recipe is easy; the head tilts up out of the way for bowl access or you can use the pouring shield to add ingredients. Nonslip feet keep the mixer still while in use and the splatter shield guards against messy drips, drops and spills. Attachments include a non-stick flat beater, dough hook and whisk. All attachments, as well as the stainless steel 4.5L mixing bowl, are dishwasher safe for fast cleanup.

$79.77

Hamilton Beach Stand Mixer in Graphic in a blog article about ordering stand mixers which are in limited quanity because of pandemic pipeline shortages and may not be available soonl

Hamilton Beach7-Speed Stand Mixer

Ideal for everyday mixing jobs, this Hamilton Beach stand mixer features a roomy 4-qt. stainless steel bowl plus 300 watts of power and your choice of 7 speeds. Three attachments offer mixing versatility to blend, beat, whip, mix and cream.

  • Includes mixer, 4-qt. stainless steel mixing bowl with removable splatter shield, dough hook, whisk and flat beater.
  • Powerful 300 watt motor maintains constant speed.
  • Seven speeds give you maximum flexibility and precise control.
  • Planetary mixing action provides complete bowl coverage
  • Tilt-up head lifts out of the way for easy bowl access.
  • Splatter shield guards against messy drips, drops and spills.
  • Nonslip feet keep the mixer still while in use.
  • Stainless steel; plastic.
  • Wipe clean mixer body; bowl and attachments are dishwasher safe.

$99.00

Kitchenaid professional 5 Plus series mixer in Graphic in a blog article about ordering stand mixers which are in limited quanity because of pandemic pipeline shortages and may not be available soonl

Kitchenaid Professional 5™ Plus Series 5 Quart Bowl-Lift Stand Mixer

Whether you need 9 dozen cookies for the school bake sale or shredded chicken for Taco Tuesday with friends and family, the KitchenAid® Professional 5™ Plus Series 5 Quart Bowl-Lift Stand Mixer has the capacity for every occasion. This durable bowl-lift stand mixer is built to last, and features 10 speeds to gently knead, thoroughly mix and briskly whip ingredients for a wide variety of recipes and comes in a variety of colors to perfectly match your kitchen design or personality. Expand your mealtime creativity with over 10 optional hub-powered attachments, from food grinders to pasta makers and more. Using the flat beater; 28g dough each sold separately.

$429.00

Frigidaire stand mixer Graphic in a blog article about ordering stand mixers which are in limited quanity because of pandemic pipeline shortages and may not be available soonl

Frigidaire 4.5 Liter Capacity Retro Stand Mixer Blue

FRIGIDAIRE’S Retro Electric 4.5L Stand Mixer offers all-metal durability and planetary mixing action for complete bowl coverage – the mixing head spins as it rotates completely inside the bowl, allowing better mixing than traditional 2-beater stand mixers. Theres no need to stop and scrape ingredients from the side of the bowl. Eight settings give you maximum versatility and precise control at every speed. Adding ingredients while preparing a recipe is easy; the head tilts up out of the way for bowl access or you can use the pouring shield to add ingredients. Nonslip feet keep the mixer still while in use and the splatter shield guards against messy drips, drops and spills. Attachments include a non-stick flat beater, dough hook and whisk. All attachments, as well as the stainless steel 4.5L mixing bowl, are dishwasher safe for fast cleanup.

$80.19

Kitchenaid stand mixer Graphic in a blog article about ordering stand mixers which are in limited quanity because of pandemic pipeline shortages and may not be available soonl

Kitchenaid Artisan® Series 5 Quart Limited Edition Stand Mixer with Ceramic Bowl

Limited Edition Stand Mixer: Light and Shadow. Light & Shadow reflects time makers spend in the kitchen to make each moment feel special. Furthermore, each design element was crafted with intention, representing the idea that inspiration can strike at any moment, whether day or night – big or small. Through the contrast of light & dark, compelling textures, and unique styling, this mixer is a winning combination for the home.

$549.00

Kitchenaid mixer in Graphic in a blog article about ordering stand mixers which are in limited quanity because of pandemic pipeline shortages and may not be available soonl

Deluxe 4.5 Quart Tilt-Head Stand Mixer

Whether you need 8 dozen of your signature chocolate chip cookies or shredded chicken for Taco Tuesday with friends and family, the KitchenAid® Deluxe 4.5 Quart Tilt-Head Stand Mixer has the capacity for every occasion. This durable tilt-head stand mixer was built to last, and features 10 speeds to gently knead, thoroughly mix andwhip ingredients for a wide variety of recipes and comes in a variety of colors to perfectly match your kitchen design or personality. Get creative and make more with your mixer with over 10 optional hub-powered attachments, from food grinders to pasta makers and more. Using the flat beater; 28g dough each sold separately.

$379.00

Graphic in a blog article about ordering stand mixers which are in limited quanity because of pandemic pipeline shortages and may not be available soonl
Graphic in a blog article about ordering stand mixers which are in limited quanity because of pandemic pipeline shortages and may not be available soonl

40 Holiday Gift Ideas for Mom

There are all these and more thoughtful and sentimental gift ideas for daughters to give their mom (ahem, those yummy meals she made when you were growing up and the fact that she’s still letting you piggyback off the family phone plan).

A your girl kissing her mom on the cheek next to a christmas tree holding a gift

Okay, yes, it is a tad early to start holiday shopping right now—but mama didn’t raise no procrastinator. Not to mention, shipping delays are gonna make the season a bit of a mess, so the earlier the better!

Iin general, getting a jumpstart before all the Post-Thanksgiving shopping madness ensues is a really smart move if ya asked me, which is why we’re here with a ton of gift ideas your mom would love.

Now, I don’t know anyone who will say no to some shiny new jewels or a life-changing book or even a luxe skincare kit that she can treat herself to for an at-home spa experience. (Of course, it’s extra special if you join her. I don’t make the rules!)

There’s all these and more thoughtful and sentimental gift ideas for daughters to give their moms, below.

3 Tarot Trio for mom

The Tarot Trio

$115

Nope, these aren’t your regular candles. Each votive represents the user’s past, present, and future. And inside each is a different tarot card charm. When the wax melts down, Mom can pluck out the charm with a pair of tweezers (included in the kit!) and interpret the meaning of the assigned tarot via the little booklet (also included in the kit!). Perfect for anyone who’s down for a spot of self-reflection and spiritual work, this candle trio would make for a sweet gift.
The Always pan as a gift for moms

The Always Pan for Mom

$115

Nope, these aren’t your regular candles. Each votive represents the user’s past, present, and future. And inside each is a different tarot card charm. When the wax melts down, Mom can pluck out the charm with a pair of tweezers (included in the kit!) and interpret the meaning of the assigned tarot via the little booklet (also included in the kit!). Perfect for anyone who’s down for a spot of self-reflection and spiritual work, this candle trio would make for a sweet gift.
Terracotta 252 Piece Custom Puzzle gift for moms

Terracotta 252 Piece Custom Puzzle for Mom

$42

For a lasting keepsake, transform her favorite photo into a custom jigsaw puzzle. You can choose from 12-, 60-, and 252-piece sets and tons of cute designs for a gift that’s totally her.

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