WalletPop Blog http://www.walletpop.com/blog WalletPop Blog http://www.walletpop.com/blog/media/feedlogo.gif WalletPop Blog http://www.walletpop.com/blog en-us Copyright 2010 Weblogs, Inc. The contents of this feed are available for non-commercial use only. Blogsmith http://www.blogsmith.com/Toothpaste to polish silver? One mom cleans green and finds big savingshttp://www.walletpop.com/blog/2010/03/12/toothpaste-to-polish-silver-one-mom-cleans-green-and-finds-big/http://www.walletpop.com/blog/2010/03/12/toothpaste-to-polish-silver-one-mom-cleans-green-and-finds-big/http://www.walletpop.com/blog/2010/03/12/toothpaste-to-polish-silver-one-mom-cleans-green-and-finds-big/#commentsFiled under: , ,

Comedian Erma Bombeck once wrote that her second favorite household chore was ironing and the first was hitting her head on the top bunk bed until she fainted.

Although there are many who agree with Bombeck and would prefer to sweep the room with only a glance, there are also those (and you know who you are) who have been known to catch a buzz from a good Swiffer session. Personally, my own enthusiasm for housework falls somewhere between company's-coming-code-red, and I-can't-put-this-book-down-slob-fest. So, when I heard about a website called, AltUse.com, an extensive listing of imaginative ways to use everyday commodities, I decided to turn this week's scrub sesh into a science experiment.

On the site, members are encouraged to divulge secret strategies for solving just about anything. Insomnia? Try vinegar. Want to make your own hummingbird food? Sugar and water! Looking for ways to cut costs on health and beauty aids? Think olive oil. Need a hangover remedy? Use bananas, a cucumber, baking soda, or ginger root! A cure for warts? Duct tape! The clever crowd of thrifty do-it-yourselfers at Altuse.com seems full of new ways to look at old standbys and save money. Out of deodorant? Use a lemon! Who knew!

Continue reading Toothpaste to polish silver? One mom cleans green and finds big savings

Toothpaste to polish silver? One mom cleans green and finds big savings originally appeared on WalletPop Blog on Fri, 12 Mar 2010 09:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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]]>alternative ways to cleanAlternativeWaysToCleanAltUser.comcleaning houseCleaningHousegreengreen cleaninghousekeepinguses for vinegarUsesForVinegarvinegarBonnie McCarthyFri, 12 Mar 2010 09:00:00 ESTLandlords sued for 'ugly' kitchen remodelhttp://www.walletpop.com/blog/2010/03/10/landlords-sued-for-ugly-kitchen-remodel/http://www.walletpop.com/blog/2010/03/10/landlords-sued-for-ugly-kitchen-remodel/http://www.walletpop.com/blog/2010/03/10/landlords-sued-for-ugly-kitchen-remodel/#commentsFiled under: , ,

In a case of things are tough all over, the Paramount Realty Group of America Corp. filed a lawsuit on behalf of Paolo Zampolli, against his former landlord, Iceland mogul Jon Asgeir Johannesson and his wife, Ingibjorg Palmadottir, for installing an allegedly "ugly" Ikea kitchen into a swanky $312,000 co-op rental apartment on the 16th floor at 50 Gramercy Park North. Hmmm .. HGTV or Judge Judy?

It seems the Johannessons are being called on the faux-Persian carpet by their tenant for committing a Nordic no-no of Viking range proportions. According to the suit, the embattled Icelanders failed to make promised renovations on time and when they finally did the kitchen was deemed unsuitable -- read cheap -- for such a luxurious home.

Continue reading Landlords sued for 'ugly' kitchen remodel

Landlords sued for 'ugly' kitchen remodel originally appeared on WalletPop Blog on Wed, 10 Mar 2010 10:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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]]>home improvementHomeImprovementIkeaJon Asgeir JohannessonJonAsgeirJohannessonlandlordslawsuitsproperty managementPropertyManagementreal estateRealEstatetenantswealthBonnie McCarthyWed, 10 Mar 2010 10:00:00 ESTFree online game promotes piggybank prowesshttp://www.walletpop.com/blog/2010/03/01/free-online-game-promotes-piggybank-prowess/http://www.walletpop.com/blog/2010/03/01/free-online-game-promotes-piggybank-prowess/http://www.walletpop.com/blog/2010/03/01/free-online-game-promotes-piggybank-prowess/#commentsFiled under: ,

Kids have built-in radar when it comes to detecting something that's supposed to be good for them, and educational games are definitely on the no-fly list. So, when I heard about The Great Piggybank Adventure, a free online game for kids ages 8-14, I have to admit I was skeptical. How is a financial planning game going to compete with Pokemon and Club Penguin? Would kids really choose to spend free time practicing the fine art of money management?

I didn't think so, until I took a look at the site. Colorful, three-dimensional graphics are the backdrop for a virtual board game that was developed as a partnership between T. Rowe Price and Disney. Stuart Ritter, certified financial planner for T. .Rowe Price, and a co-creator of the game told WalletPop, while his firm supplied the educational component, Disney "brought the magic and experience of making things fun for kids." Ritter acknowledged that kids can "smell homework" a mile away, and says the team worked hard to create an experience that would provide learning as a by-product of something that is first and foremost -- fun.

Continue reading Free online game promotes piggybank prowess

Free online game promotes piggybank prowess originally appeared on WalletPop Blog on Mon, 01 Mar 2010 10:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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]]>DisneyJohns Hopkins UniversityJohnsHopkinsUniversitykids and financesKids and moneyKidsAndFinancesKidsAndMoneylearning about moneyLearningAboutMoneyT. Rowe PriceT.RowePriceThe Great Piggy Bank AdventureTheGreatPiggyBankAdventureBonnie McCarthyMon, 01 Mar 2010 10:00:00 EST'Holy Grail' of comic books sets million dollar recordhttp://www.walletpop.com/blog/2010/02/24/holy-grail-of-comic-books-sets-million-dollar-record/http://www.walletpop.com/blog/2010/02/24/holy-grail-of-comic-books-sets-million-dollar-record/http://www.walletpop.com/blog/2010/02/24/holy-grail-of-comic-books-sets-million-dollar-record/#commentsFiled under: ,

Superrman Action Comics No. 1 The first edition of "Action Comics," featuring Superman's debut that sold for 10 cents in 1938, set an out-of-this-world auction record Monday, leaping to an astonishing $1 million dollar value in a single bound, or online bid, as the case may be.

Sold to an anonymous, private bidder by an anonymous, private New York seller, Steven Fishler, co-owner of the US auction website Comic Connect, told BBC News that the super sale happened within minutes of putting the comic book up for auction. "The opportunity to buy an un-restored, high-grade Action One comes along once every two decades. It's certainly a milestone," said Fishler.

Continue reading 'Holy Grail' of comic books sets million dollar record

'Holy Grail' of comic books sets million dollar record originally appeared on WalletPop Blog on Wed, 24 Feb 2010 14:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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]]>ACTION COMICSActionComicscomic booksComicBooksinvestmentssupermanSuperman no. 1SupermanNo.1Bonnie McCarthyWed, 24 Feb 2010 14:00:00 ESTSpace-age stovetop eliminates pots, pans and cookbookshttp://www.walletpop.com/blog/2010/02/23/space-age-stovetop-eliminates-pots-pans-and-cookbooks/http://www.walletpop.com/blog/2010/02/23/space-age-stovetop-eliminates-pots-pans-and-cookbooks/http://www.walletpop.com/blog/2010/02/23/space-age-stovetop-eliminates-pots-pans-and-cookbooks/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

Look out Judy Jetson, Electrolux plans to make pots and pans seem so last century. Henrik Otto, world renowned director of Global Design for Electrolux in Sweden envisions smart kitchens of 2050 as a cross between the Sci-Fi channel and the Food Network.

Designed to address a population the UN predicts will live mainly in cities (74%) and exceed 9 billion world wide, Otto and his team believe the future lies in appliances that are energy efficient, serve multiple functions and relate to the architecture of the home in a symbiotic (read networked) way.

Sound cool? It is. Check out the video:



Continue reading Space-age stovetop eliminates pots, pans and cookbooks

Space-age stovetop eliminates pots, pans and cookbooks originally appeared on WalletPop Blog on Tue, 23 Feb 2010 10:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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]]>AB ElectroluxAbElectroluxappliancesdesignfoodfuturekitchen of the futureKitchenOfTheFuturestove of the futureStoveOfTheFutureBonnie McCarthyTue, 23 Feb 2010 10:00:00 ESTTeam USA moms score Olympic sponsorships from Procter & Gamblehttp://www.walletpop.com/blog/2010/02/17/team-usa-moms-score-olympic-sponsorships-from-procter-and-gamble/http://www.walletpop.com/blog/2010/02/17/team-usa-moms-score-olympic-sponsorships-from-procter-and-gamble/http://www.walletpop.com/blog/2010/02/17/team-usa-moms-score-olympic-sponsorships-from-procter-and-gamble/#commentsFiled under: ,

There's a reason Olympic athletes mouth the words, "Thanks, Mom" into the cameras as they hold their medals aloft. Mothers spend countless hours waiting, watching, driving and cheering them on and they spend a small fortune on tournament fees, coaching, travel and sports equipment. Being the mom of an Olympic athlete is truly an Olympic-worthy effort.

While U.S. Olympic sponsor, Procter & Gamble, may not be the first to recognize the unsung heroes behind the athletes, they are the first to award Team USA moms with their own Olympic sponsorships.

Continue reading Team USA moms score Olympic sponsorships from Procter & Gamble

Team USA moms score Olympic sponsorships from Procter & Gamble originally appeared on WalletPop Blog on Wed, 17 Feb 2010 15:15:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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]]>athletehockeyJulie ChuMomOlympicOlympicsPGProcter GamblesponsorssponsorshipsTeam USAThanksBonnie McCarthyWed, 17 Feb 2010 15:15:00 ESTThe price of thin: Weighing in on the Biggest Loser Resort at Fitness Ridgehttp://www.walletpop.com/blog/2010/02/13/the-price-of-thin-weighing-in-on-the-biggest-loser-resort-at-fi/http://www.walletpop.com/blog/2010/02/13/the-price-of-thin-weighing-in-on-the-biggest-loser-resort-at-fi/http://www.walletpop.com/blog/2010/02/13/the-price-of-thin-weighing-in-on-the-biggest-loser-resort-at-fi/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

The modest, unassuming buildings grouped together near Snow Canyon State Park in Utah, are not what most people imagine when they hear "#1 Most Popular Resort in America," but that's what a partnership with one of the most watched shows on TV can do for a place. However, what Biggest Loser Resort at Fitness Ridge lacks in first impressions, it makes up for in its mission.

Billed as a "compassionate" boot camp and blessed with a supersized endorsement from Biggest Loser, the little-resort-that-could offers viewers the chance to succeed at their own challenges. No cameras, team colors or $250,000 in prize money, but no one can vote you out either.

It's for those of us who have sat on the couch and wondered what it would be like to work with Jillian and Bob, face calculated temptations, physical challenges, make friends, er, alliances, and get weighed on a giant digital scale on national TV, okay, maybe not that last part. I am also pretty sure they don't force you to wear unflattering bike shorts and sport bra combos or go shirtless on national TV, so it's already less painful than the NBC version.

Continue reading The price of thin: Weighing in on the Biggest Loser Resort at Fitness Ridge

The price of thin: Weighing in on the Biggest Loser Resort at Fitness Ridge originally appeared on WalletPop Blog on Sat, 13 Feb 2010 17:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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]]>Biggest LoserBiggest loser resortBiggestLoserBiggestLoserResortfat farmsFatFarmsfoodlosing weightLosingWeighttravelBonnie McCarthySat, 13 Feb 2010 17:00:00 ESTMan-up: Free pants from Dockershttp://www.walletpop.com/blog/2010/02/09/man-up-free-pants-from-dockers/http://www.walletpop.com/blog/2010/02/09/man-up-free-pants-from-dockers/http://www.walletpop.com/blog/2010/02/09/man-up-free-pants-from-dockers/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

Where I come from, traipsing around in underwear that possesses only a memory of elastic is referred to as doing the walk of shame. But maybe that's just me. In a message that manages to channel both Lady GaGa and the dudes from The Full Monty, Dockers debuted its newest ad campaign during Sunday's Super Bowl and Testosterone Fest aptly entitled, Men Without Pants.

Striding boldly up a grassy knoll, wearing nothing but tighty-whities and casual Friday separates, an a cappella group of regular Joe's sing an anti-pant anthem and provide a cheeky look at Docker's new message to Man-kind: it's time to take back masculinity and start "wearing the pants."




Inspired by the idea that somewhere between manscaping and metrosexuals, manhood has taken a hit, Jim Calhoun, president of Dockers Brand, said he hopes the campaign will spark a discussion about what it means to be a real man in the 21st century. In his words, one who can "change a tire and a diaper." Personally, I've got a cell phone and Triple A, if push comes to shove, I pick diaper. But then I'm not a guy.

Pointing to recently-released studies from the Pew Research Group (The Rise of Wives), an article in the New York Times (More Men Marrying Wealthier Women by Sam Roberts), and an NPR report (Human Male: Still a Work in Progress), Dockers says it is capitalizing on an emerging trend. Man-up guys, step away from the stonewash and get yourselves some serious anti-wussie wear: khaki pants. Or, do your laundry.

However, if finances don't allow, Dockers has got your back(side). It will be giving away 2,010 pair of free khaki pants at Dockers.com. (Insert chest bump, here) Nothing like a little wrinkle-resistant twill to put some swagger in a guy's step.

Real men who download Shazam software to their smartphones can also tag the ad and enter to win pants via mobile. (OMG, knuckles and a shot of Scotch neat).

Winners will find out instantly if they have scored a pair (of pants) and can enter daily until February 15. In the meantime, put down the quiche, and may the best man win.

Man-up: Free pants from Dockers originally appeared on WalletPop Blog on Tue, 09 Feb 2010 10:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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]]>DockersDockers funny Superbowl AdDockersFunnySuperbowlAdI wear no pantsIWearNoPantsmanhoodshoppingSuperbbowl adSuperbbowlAdSuperbowlBonnie McCarthyTue, 09 Feb 2010 10:00:00 ESTDIY prom dress competitions offer thousands in college scholarshipshttp://www.walletpop.com/blog/2010/02/08/diy-prom-dress-competitions-offer-thousands-in-college-scholarsh/http://www.walletpop.com/blog/2010/02/08/diy-prom-dress-competitions-offer-thousands-in-college-scholarsh/http://www.walletpop.com/blog/2010/02/08/diy-prom-dress-competitions-offer-thousands-in-college-scholarsh/#commentsFiled under: , ,

Break out the duct tape, fire up the glue guns and get the sewing machine out of the closet, it's prom season! Crafty, college-bound prom goers can win serious scholarship dollars for designing dream dresses and tuxedos -- no fairy godmother required.

JoAnn Fabric and Craft Stores is offering a $50,000 grand prize, $10,000 second prize and significant runner-up prizes for the winners of the Own Your Look Prom Contest 2010. Similarly, Duck Brand duct tape is celebrating the tenth year of its "Stuck at Prom" design competition to find clever couples with style and stick-to-it-tiveness in the US and Canada .

Part MacGyver, part Project Runway, entries for both contests will be judged by panels of experts looking at workmanship, originality and level of detail. For those whipping up a little something out of duct tape, contestants will also be judged on use of color (choose from pink, green, orange, yellow, silver, camouflage, aqua, red, blue, black and white, to name just a few), accessories and the quantity of duct tape used to create their attire.

In a reality-TV-style twist, Stuck at Prom's top ten finalist couples will be judged during online public voting (June 18-July 26) to determine the grand prize winners ($3,000 for each contestant and $3,000 for the school whose prom they attend). Staying in the competition could prove tricky however, since couples with the lowest votes will be eliminated a la American Idol if they don't get enough support from their fanbase.

Continue reading DIY prom dress competitions offer thousands in college scholarships

DIY prom dress competitions offer thousands in college scholarships originally appeared on WalletPop Blog on Mon, 08 Feb 2010 12:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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]]>duct tape prom dressDuctTapePromDressfamily moneyFamilyMoneyJoAnns FabricsJoannsFabricsPromScholarshipsBonnie McCarthyMon, 08 Feb 2010 12:00:00 ESTTime's running out to apply for $2,500 Upromise scholarshipshttp://www.walletpop.com/blog/2010/02/07/times-running-out-to-apply-for-2-500-upromise-scholarships/http://www.walletpop.com/blog/2010/02/07/times-running-out-to-apply-for-2-500-upromise-scholarships/http://www.walletpop.com/blog/2010/02/07/times-running-out-to-apply-for-2-500-upromise-scholarships/#commentsFiled under: , ,

Looking to send someone off to college next fall? Hurry, time's running out to apply for a $2,500 Upromise Scholarship. Due by February 15, applications are being accepted for 2010-11 scholarships aimed at assisting 100 undergrads with financial need.

"Especially in this economy and with college costs increasing each year, it is gratifying to know that this program will help 100 bright and hard-working students," said Suzanne Boozer, a Upromise employee who helped create the scholarship program which began in 2008. Natalie Alatriste, a freshman at the University of Central Florida, and recipient of a 2009 award said, "By helping to pay my tuition, the Upromise Scholarship has allowed me to pursue my dream of studying biology."

Applicants, or their parents must be a member (or quickly become a member) of Upromise (joining is free), have a minimum 3.40 GPA on a 4.0 scale (or the equivalent), prove a household income of $80,000 or less, be a US citizen and a high school senior, high school graduate or current college student who plans to enroll in a two or four-year accredited college, university or vocational tech school.

Complete guidelines for eligibility and application can be found here.

You can also help the cause by becoming a "fan" of Upromise on Facebook. The company has pledged to donate $1 to the scholarship fund for every new fan (up to $25,000).

Although becoming a facebook fan is a whole lot easier than filling out a scholarship application, both are worth the effort and there's still time. What, you thought you'd be watching the Superbowl? Get the scholarship now, the tailgating can come later.

Time's running out to apply for $2,500 Upromise scholarships originally appeared on WalletPop Blog on Sun, 07 Feb 2010 17:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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]]>collegefamily moneyFamilyMoneyscholarshipuPromiseBonnie McCarthySun, 07 Feb 2010 17:00:00 ESTSmartbox: Best gift box for Valentine's day isn't heart-shapedhttp://www.walletpop.com/blog/2010/02/05/smartbox-best-gift-box-for-valentines-day-isnt-heart-shaped/http://www.walletpop.com/blog/2010/02/05/smartbox-best-gift-box-for-valentines-day-isnt-heart-shaped/http://www.walletpop.com/blog/2010/02/05/smartbox-best-gift-box-for-valentines-day-isnt-heart-shaped/#commentsFiled under: , ,

How do you wrap an adrenaline rush, put a bow on a mind-blowing experience or help your sweetheart check off something on their bucket list for Valentine's Day? Smartbox offers a solution -- and free shipping until February 14.

Cleverly packaged in a CD-like box, each Smartbox contains a gift card and a themed guide book of activities. Your recipient can choose one experience from the extensive list, and will have up to a year and a half to redeem it.

Themes are categorized with monikers such as, "Discovery," "Serenity," "Adventure," "Gourmet" and "Fun for All," Just reading the descriptions of things to do in California gets the imagination going: "Battle down whitewater rapids, hang ten on a surf board, defy gravity in a wind tunnel, build your endurance while rock climbing or simply kayak and discover the beautiful scenery that surrounds you." They had me at defy gravity.

Continue reading Smartbox: Best gift box for Valentine's day isn't heart-shaped

Smartbox: Best gift box for Valentine's day isn't heart-shaped originally appeared on WalletPop Blog on Fri, 05 Feb 2010 10:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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]]>adventure giftsAdventureGiftsgiftsshoppingSmartboxtravelValentines DayValentinesDayBonnie McCarthyFri, 05 Feb 2010 10:00:00 ESTIn-womb surround sound? A new way to rock your babyhttp://www.walletpop.com/blog/2010/02/03/in-womb-surround-sound-a-new-way-to-rock-your-baby/http://www.walletpop.com/blog/2010/02/03/in-womb-surround-sound-a-new-way-to-rock-your-baby/http://www.walletpop.com/blog/2010/02/03/in-womb-surround-sound-a-new-way-to-rock-your-baby/#commentsFiled under: ,

Music industry glitterati took home free the Ritmo Advanced Pregnancy Sound Systems by Nuvo along with the rest of the enviable graft in their gratis Grammy Awards MusiCares goody bags this year. Designed to support a pregnant belly, aid in fetal development, and provide, "unparalleled quality and safe sound to prenatal listeners," the system aspires to be a multi-tasking baby Bose for the in-utero crowd.

I saw August Rush, I get the idea. Nuvo, however, cites scientific studies to prove its case.

Dr. Alexandra Lamont from Leicester University's Music Research Group at the School of Psychology (UK) reported that babies can remember sounds they heard in the womb more than a year after birth,

"This provides new evidence about the influence of nurture in early child development.," he said. "Babies can remember and prefer music that they heard before they were born."

In addition, Nuvo notes information from authors Sloboda and Deliege, who wrote Musical Beginnings:Origins and Development of Musical Competence (1996) and stated, "musical interactions from the earliest moments are directly related to brain development and may be the building blocks for future musical ability, intellectual development, and ultimately functioning in the culture in which the child lives".

Continue reading In-womb surround sound? A new way to rock your baby

In-womb surround sound? A new way to rock your baby originally appeared on WalletPop Blog on Wed, 03 Feb 2010 11:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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]]>baby musicBabyMusicFamily moneyFamilyMoneyGrammy AwardsGrammyAwardsnew productsNewProductspregnancyRitmoBonnie McCarthyWed, 03 Feb 2010 11:00:00 ESTSpring style worth the spendhttp://www.walletpop.com/blog/2010/01/26/spring-style-worth-the-spend/http://www.walletpop.com/blog/2010/01/26/spring-style-worth-the-spend/http://www.walletpop.com/blog/2010/01/26/spring-style-worth-the-spend/#commentsFiled under: ,

New year, new you? If resolutions for 2010 include hitting the refresh button on your personal style, let's start at Ground Zero -- your closet. Forge ahead with that diet and exercise plan, but if you're looking for a quick fix (and who isn't) let's talk tweaking.

For most of us, a brand new wardrobe isn't in the (credit) cards this year. Luckily, clever is the new cool and 2010's "it" girls will be the ones who know what clothes to keep and which new pieces to add. When even the First Lady is photographed wearing the same dress more than once, times have definitely changed. The trick is to make sure you look really, really good in that dress.

A mini-budget can have maximum impact when style-seekers know what's worth the money, and what isn't.

Fads: buy low. Remember leg warmers? Clothes that are the equivalent of a one night stand don't need to endure the test of time. Don't overspend for a fashionable flash-in-the-pan. Think fun, flirty, but not forever. 2010 fad alert: harem pants (don't say I didn't warn you), hair bows, jumpsuits, corsets, long vests, floppy "paper-bag" waists, 70's style "dolphin" shorts, and anything worn by Lady Ga Ga..

Love and money should be reserved for classic pieces that promise to live up to their price tag, for richer, for poorer, in sickness and in health. Except in cases of true investment dressing (i.e. Chanel suit or Valentino LBD) "til death" might be pushing it. These are the things to reach for when you want to feel the confidence that comes when clothes fit right and flatter perfectly. However, just because a piece is the strong, reliable type doesn't mean it has to be boring. Some clothes just ooze quality, and that can usually be attributed to good fabric, thoughtful details and workmanship. These are the items worth rescuing from a fire.

This spring, several trends promise to go the distance.

Continue reading Spring style worth the spend

Spring style worth the spend originally appeared on WalletPop Blog on Tue, 26 Jan 2010 14:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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]]>fashionfashion savesFashionSavessaving moneyshoppingSpring styleSpringStyleBonnie McCarthyTue, 26 Jan 2010 14:00:00 ESTFriendlier skies for jet-setting toddlershttp://www.walletpop.com/blog/2010/01/26/friendlier-skies-for-jet-setting-toddlers/http://www.walletpop.com/blog/2010/01/26/friendlier-skies-for-jet-setting-toddlers/http://www.walletpop.com/blog/2010/01/26/friendlier-skies-for-jet-setting-toddlers/#commentsFiled under: , ,

Traveling with small children is a sherpa-like experience that tests not only strength, endurance and patience, but also creativity and negotiation skills. Nowadays, it has now also become expensive, thanks to the new baggage fees airlines are charging.

In the past, frazzled families checked luggage under the plane leaving "hands free" (haha) to tote diaper bags, backpacks of books and toys, 20-lb car seats, jackets, a purse, snacks -- and, oops, the kids! Amazing Race contestants have nothing on parents traveling with toddlers. But Thanks to ever increasing baggage fees, frugal families now have to carry on their luggage as well. It just adds to the hell of traveling with small children. What can you do?

Louise Stoll, a former Assistant Secretary within the Department of Transportation, and grandmother of nine, did something about it.

She remembers her "Aha moment" like this: "My daughter, Miriam, came to visit us and stepped off the plane carrying a 2-year-old toddler, a 20 pound car seat, a diaper bag, and she was 7-months pregnant! I thought there had to be a better way and I went home and started to draw pictures of what I though a child safety device designed for airplanes -- not cars -- ought to look like. My husband, an attorney, looked at the sketches and sent me to a patent attorney."

Continue reading Friendlier skies for jet-setting toddlers

Friendlier skies for jet-setting toddlers originally appeared on WalletPop Blog on Tue, 26 Jan 2010 09:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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]]>CARES safety harnessCaresSafetyHarnessFAA testingFaaTestingkids safe while flyingkids travelKidsSafeWhileFlyingKidsTravelsafetyBonnie McCarthyTue, 26 Jan 2010 09:00:00 ESTShirataki Noodle is either the perfect diet food or diet fad, use your noodle to decidehttp://www.walletpop.com/blog/2010/01/25/shirataki-noodle-perfect-diet-food-or-diet-fad-use-your-noodle/http://www.walletpop.com/blog/2010/01/25/shirataki-noodle-perfect-diet-food-or-diet-fad-use-your-noodle/http://www.walletpop.com/blog/2010/01/25/shirataki-noodle-perfect-diet-food-or-diet-fad-use-your-noodle/#commentsFiled under: , ,

With National Fettuccine Alfredo Day (February 7) just around the corner, is it possible to find a recipe that will befit the occasion while remaining true to our New Year's resolutions ... you remember those? Something about eating healthier and losing weight?

Shirataki noodle evangelists at Miracle Noodle and House Foods believe the answer lies in the refrigerated food case at Whole Foods, health food stores, Asian markets or via online purchase. Shirataki noodles, made from either tofu and yam flour (House Foods) or the konnyaku imo plant (Miracle Noodle), cook almost instantly, are high in fiber and low in fat, calories and carbs. A dieter's dream. If you're counting "points," an entire two-serving package of tofu shirataki noodles from House Foods has zero points. Yes, you read that right.

Continue reading Shirataki Noodle is either the perfect diet food or diet fad, use your noodle to decide

Shirataki Noodle is either the perfect diet food or diet fad, use your noodle to decide originally appeared on WalletPop Blog on Mon, 25 Jan 2010 11:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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]]>are shirataki noodles the real dealAreShiratakiNoodlesTheRealDealcheap diet foodsCheapDietFoodsdietingfamily moneyFamilyMoneyfoodShirataki noodlesShiratakiNoodlesBonnie McCarthyMon, 25 Jan 2010 11:00:00 ESTT-shirts with a twist: It's what's on the inside that countshttp://www.walletpop.com/blog/2010/01/22/t-shirts-with-a-twist-its-whats-on-the-inside-that-counts/http://www.walletpop.com/blog/2010/01/22/t-shirts-with-a-twist-its-whats-on-the-inside-that-counts/http://www.walletpop.com/blog/2010/01/22/t-shirts-with-a-twist-its-whats-on-the-inside-that-counts/#commentsFiled under: ,

When the daughter of a good friend passed away in 2008, entrepreneur Scott Wilson could have sent flowers, instead he paid tribute in his own way, doing what knows best -- making t-shirts.

A clothing manufacturer in San Marcos, CA for more than 30 years, Wilson screen-printed a photo of his friend's daughter on the inside of t-shirts so the family could take comfort in keeping her close to their hearts.

Today, a year and a half later, what began as a thoughtful gesture has taken on a life and mission of its own. Wilson's newest venture, HeartThreads, a line of women's t-shirts with inspirational quotes printed on the inside has become a reality. The question is, will people pay for something no one else can see? It's sort of like getting a discreet tattoo -- without the needles! Or wearing sexy lingerie under a no-nonsense business suit. Will women be flashing their, um, messages?

Launched a little over a month ago, HeartThreads offers long-sleeve ($36) and short sleeve ($30) t-shirts (sized small -- XXL) designed in soft, pima cotton featuring four motivational themes: wisdom, faith, love, and inspiration. Messages such as "Karma: What goes around comes around. I will live my life with integrity and purpose," and "Live, love, laugh: words to live by. Live with purpose, love unconditionally, laugh out loud, I'll enjoy life every step of the way..." are two options.

Continue reading T-shirts with a twist: It's what's on the inside that counts

T-shirts with a twist: It's what's on the inside that counts originally appeared on WalletPop Blog on Fri, 22 Jan 2010 10:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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]]>giftsHeartThreadsinspirational t-shirtsInspirationalT-shirtsshoppingT-shirtsBonnie McCarthyFri, 22 Jan 2010 10:30:00 ESTMake money fast by getting your baby into modelinghttp://www.walletpop.com/blog/2010/01/20/make-money-fast-by-getting-your-baby-into-modeling/http://www.walletpop.com/blog/2010/01/20/make-money-fast-by-getting-your-baby-into-modeling/http://www.walletpop.com/blog/2010/01/20/make-money-fast-by-getting-your-baby-into-modeling/#commentsFiled under: ,

Do you have a beautiful baby and harbor sweet dreams of mini-model stardom? If your cutie is destined to go from cradle to coverbabe, but you're not sure what to do and Terry Shields isn't returning calls, you are not alone. Although breaking into the modeling biz might seem daunting, the good news is that legitimate agencies offer a simple, straightforward and inexpensive process. The bad news; there are more adorable little faces than there are gigs.

Not all modeling agencies offer children's (ages 0-12) divisions, and those that do are based primarily in major metropolitan cities. Unfortunately for itty-bitty beauties, location does matter, and driving distance can be just as important as dimples.

Ford Models, LA Models and Wilhelmina Models are veteran agencies that have been in business for decades and have earned reputations for professionalism over the years. Eileen Ford, co-founder of Ford Models is reported to have said that pretty baby, Brooke Shields, is the reason she opened her kids' division and launched a lucrative career that has lasted a lifetime.

For babies looking to follow her lead and turn pro before they can walk, let alone "work" a runway, the first step is to find agencies with children's divisions closest to home. Check out the websites of Ford, LA Models, and Wilhemina's "Willy Kids" divisions online for a complete listing of offices and affiliates.

The next step is preparing for the agency's "open call," which is how agents go about the business of finding new faces. Each office has their own process. There is no charge for an open call. Some agencies will ask parents to simply mail 3-5 snapshots for consideration (they will not be returned), while others allow brief, in-person interviews that enable agents to meet baby and see photos at the same time. Open Calls are usually scheduled once or twice a week during specified hours and anyone interested in representation is invited to attend.

Continue reading Make money fast by getting your baby into modeling

Make money fast by getting your baby into modeling originally appeared on WalletPop Blog on Wed, 20 Jan 2010 10:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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]]>baby modelsBabyModelscareerfamily moneyFamilyMoneyget your kid into modelingGetYourKidIntoModelingkids and modelingKidsAndModelingLive with Regis and Kelly beautfiul baby search 2010LiveWithRegisAndKellyBeautfiulBabySearch2010Bonnie McCarthyWed, 20 Jan 2010 10:00:00 ESTDonna Karan helps out with the recession: One dress, 10 ways to wear ithttp://www.walletpop.com/blog/2010/01/14/donna-karan-helps-out-with-the-recession-one-dress-10-ways-to/http://www.walletpop.com/blog/2010/01/14/donna-karan-helps-out-with-the-recession-one-dress-10-ways-to/http://www.walletpop.com/blog/2010/01/14/donna-karan-helps-out-with-the-recession-one-dress-10-ways-to/#commentsFiled under:

The infinity dress, a cleverly re-considered item has been reintroduced by designer Donna Karan and her timing could not be better. Take that airline baggage fee! Not necessarily new, Karan's creation is a thoroughly modern interpretation of a trend that has been surfacing off and on since the 70s.

It's a halter, it's a tunic, it's a wrap, a skirt or skinny column, it's Karan's impossibly chic answer to what every fashionista should bring if, for some inexplicable reason, they had to be stranded on a deserted island -- Survivor never looked so good.

Available in long sleeve, sleeveless, or the uber-optional basic tank and dress combo, the multi-tasking, go anywhere, do anything dress is definitely an investment piece. Yes, there is a price for all this fabulousness and it ain't cheap. Brace yourself: $895, or $1,095 if you want sleeves. Okay, breathe. Now let's do a little recession-rationalization therapy.

Continue reading Donna Karan helps out with the recession: One dress, 10 ways to wear it

Donna Karan helps out with the recession: One dress, 10 ways to wear it originally appeared on WalletPop Blog on Thu, 14 Jan 2010 16:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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]]>1 dress 10 ways1Dress10WaysDonna KaranDonnaKaranInfinity DressInfinityDressBonnie McCarthyThu, 14 Jan 2010 16:00:00 ESTCalling all poster children: new contest rewards creativityhttp://www.walletpop.com/blog/2010/01/13/calling-all-poster-children-new-contest-rewards-creativity/http://www.walletpop.com/blog/2010/01/13/calling-all-poster-children-new-contest-rewards-creativity/http://www.walletpop.com/blog/2010/01/13/calling-all-poster-children-new-contest-rewards-creativity/#commentsFiled under:

Break out those art supplies and slap on your thinking caps, kids, it's time to doodle for dollars.

The National Foundation for Credit Counseling (NFCC) has announced the 2010 theme for its annual "Be Money Wi$e National Financial Literacy Poster Contest" open to students in the third through 12th grades. Designed to inspire on many levels, "$mart Money Choices = A Brighter Future" is this year's focus for the art and finance savvy entrants.

The contest will be divided into three grade categories: Elementary (3rd through 5th); Middle (6th through 8th); and High (9th through 12th) and submissions will be judged on "expression of the theme (40%), artwork style and content (30%), and creativity (30%)."

All finalists will receive a commemorative T-shirt, and three, national grade category winners will receive an award plaque and a $100 savings bond. In addition, the overall National Winner will be rewarded an all-expense paid trip to Washington D.C. with a parent or guardian and given official recognition in April as part of financial Literacy Month on Capitol Hill.

Rules, guidelines and submission information can be found online at the group's website. Deadlines for submissions are in February, 2010, however, exact dates vary by state. Click on "submission guidelines" and then select your state from the picture map.

Last year's winner, Leah Ellyson, a junior at North Marion High School in Carolina, West Virginia said her parents were the inspiration behind her winning entry. "They have taught me a lot about financial responsibility over the year," said Ellyson, "... For years my parents have set a budget for our family and we have lived within it. I see that they never spend more than they make, and they always stress to me that they only use credit cards as a convenience. The basic outline on my poster follows the common sense rules that they have modeled for me."

Referring to last year's theme in her acceptance speech, Ellyson said, "It remains to be seen whether or not I become a millionaire but I am wealthy in many ways; I have a family who loves and supports me, inspiration all around me, and a God-given talent that has taken me from drawing a picture at my kitchen table and turning it in to a great experience like this."

Calling all poster children: new contest rewards creativity originally appeared on WalletPop Blog on Wed, 13 Jan 2010 11:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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]]>credit counselingCreditCounselingkids and moneyKidsAndMoneyLeah EllysonLeahEllysonNational Foundation for Credit CounselingNationalFoundationForCreditCounselingposter contestPosterContestteaching kids about moneyTeachingKidsAboutMoneyBonnie McCarthyWed, 13 Jan 2010 11:00:00 ESTThe pause that refreshes: Win $2,010 in 2010 from Cokehttp://www.walletpop.com/blog/2010/01/11/the-pause-that-refreshes-win-2-010-in-2010-from-coke/http://www.walletpop.com/blog/2010/01/11/the-pause-that-refreshes-win-2-010-in-2010-from-coke/http://www.walletpop.com/blog/2010/01/11/the-pause-that-refreshes-win-2-010-in-2010-from-coke/#commentsFiled under: ,

Wondering how to pay off those holiday bills? Entering Coca-Cola's $2,010 in 2010 Sweepstakes might be just the ticket.

Open to legal US residents, 18 years-of-age and older, participants can log onto Coke's website and enter once a day from now until January 25. (Note, if you or your immediate family work for the Coca Cola Company, its affiliates, subsidiaries, parent companies, agents or prize-providing companies, you are not eligible to play. The good news is you have a job ... or at least gainfully-employed relatives.)

Grand prize is a $2,010 Visa gift card. Three additional $250 "first prizes" will also be awarded.

Winners will be notified via email. Click here for complete contest details. I don't know about you, but that $2,010 might just cover the cost of my Diet Coke habit for the year. Fingers crossed.

The pause that refreshes: Win $2,010 in 2010 from Coke originally appeared on WalletPop Blog on Mon, 11 Jan 2010 08:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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]]>Coca-Cola sweepstakesCoca-colaSweepstakesCokecontestswinning sweepstakesWinningSweepstakesBonnie McCarthyMon, 11 Jan 2010 08:00:00 EST