Deal: Laura Mercier Bronzing Duo and Neiman Marcus Cosmetic Bag

Super cute cosmetic bag, plus Laura Mercier bronzing powder - $15 total! Try using code SHIPNM for free shipping.

Deal: The Real Straight Jean

I’ve been searching for some time for a great pair of affordable jeans. I must admit, I appreciate the “skinny” phase we’re in, but there are certain aspects to that style of jean that don’t work for me. 1) They hug my calves too tight both physically and visually; and 2) they make my butt look big which it’s not (I’m not saying I have a smokin’ behind, just saying I don’t have an enormous one). My husband has even pointed out that my skinny jeans don’t do my backside any favors, while many other jeans I have, he thinks look awesome.

I found them! Actually, my girlfriend found them, but either way - they are found! And apparently we didn't have to search very far. They are called “Real Straight” from the Gap. They fit perfectly on the waist – not too high (mom jeans) or low (muffin top) and the leg is clean and straight (but not form fitting at all). Go for the dark wash and although I am 5’ 5”, I have the ankle length (which honestly isn’t that short). They go perfectly with ballet flats and flat sandals. They are extremely comfortable, don’t stretch out, and stylish. Using the Gap discount (as previously posted), they were $55.60! Enjoy.

Sale: Diapers.com

Semi-annual Baby Sale going on at diapers.com through 6/30/10. All codes are in the link!

Sale: PB Kids Bedding

A nice little bedding sale going on now at Pottery Barn Kids.

Discount: J. Crew

J. Crew - Extra 20% online through 6/9/10, plus free shipping if you spend a lot! $150 or more

Discount: Gap Cardmember Event

I really do feel like I get value from being a Gap brand cardholder. Doesn't matter which card you have, Gap, BR or Old Navy. Regardless, you enjoy card member events at any store using any card, when they happen.

Gap is having their card member appreciation even from June 10-13 - 25% off any purchases during that time. Use your Gap, BR or Old Navy card to receive your discount. Online, use code GAPTHANKS.

The Almighty Library Card

Been to the library lately? For those who don’t have kids I will repeat my question…been to the library lately? I’m amazed at how much money I used to spend on buying books for trips or just general reading. Then when you’re done, they get passed on to a friend or Goodwill. Literally, money you will never see again.

Last night I took the kids for our monthly library visit and came home with 15 children’s books, two kid’s DVDs and my next read “Flipping Out”. It’s thrilling to see your kids get excited about new books.

I realize a lot of you have gone all Kindle on me, but even e-books cost money. Most libraries have great online tools for reserving/holding materials to really maximize your time. Planning a road trip? Don’t forget about their DVDs, books on CD, etc. And of course, it's FREE!

Sales: Sale Central

There are a lot of sales going on right now - must be time to remove spring inventory and get ready for summer. Wait, it's almost summer? Sorry, for those of us living in the land of rain, we didn't realize it was June!

J. Crew - new styles added to their summer sale
Banana Republic - shorts and pants sale 6/2/10 only
Ann Taylor Loft - sale, plus enter SALE40 at checkout for an extra 40% off!

Land of Nod - book orders ship free (need a birthday gift for an upcoming party?)
Pottery Barn Kids - new spring mark downs

Deal: the lunch tote

We're all very well aware of reusable bags at this point. Mine are hideous - a free gift on earth day a few years back and I only use them for grocery shopping. But thanks to my friend Lisa, I'm now the proud owner of a new reusable lunch tote. I love it! It carries my lunch and a few other items to work each day and stands up to the cold fridge much better than paper ones (and of course good for the environment). I also use it to carry home a few things at night - items that I don't want to get lost in my purse.

These are at Target (in-store only) for $4.99 for the 3-pack. A great gift idea for sure or a little splurge for yourself so your lunch (or whatever you decide to put in there) looks a little bit more exciting!