Deals & Steals – 4/30/10 (Mother’s Day Edition!)

This post kicks off several Mother’s Day-themed posts coming up in the next week – including a few great giveaways, so please stay tuned!

Here’s the information I’ve come across this week and want to pass along to you…

Note: Many of these are not in my own words, but taken straight from the e-mail or press release that I received. I have re-worded or re-written where I thought it was necessary or helpful, but am not responsible for the content of these items or anything that may be posted on their sites.

CONTESTS & SWEEPS

Are you a busy mom in need of not just a makeover–but a full-fledged reinvention? Or perhaps you’d like to nominate a well-deserving mom (a sister, friend, neighbor or colleague), mainly because you often wonder what she would look like in something other than sweats, or pieces that can only be described as “stretchy.” Maybe you or your candidate is re-entering the workforce, finishing a long-awaited goal or milestone, or has finally found the time for that long-awaited date night. Whatever the reason, you/she has the opportunity for a head-to-toe overhaul.

That “inner fashionista” may be lost to the demands of work and family, but she can be found. Hybrid Mom would like to offer the winner the opportunity to reinvent herself with a versatile, glam look that any Hybrid Mom would covet: the kind that works as effortlessly at 5 p.m. soccer practice as it does at the 3 p.m. staff meeting–valued up to $1000. In addition to a complete outfit by White House | Black Market, a $100 gift certificate to SOMA intimates and jewelry to perfect the look by Lia Sophia, the winner will receive a basket of great goodies to complete the new you package!

How to Win: Visit http://www.hybridmom.com/mothers-day-contest and fill out the form explaining why you or your candidate needs a reinvention (stat!) and how it will change your/her attitude, outlook and life!

Here are some giveaways from Gather.com!

• Deadline May 3rd: Win A Signed Copy of Milton Glaser’s Artwork!
• Deadline June 23rd: Share your home farming photo essays for the chance to win Gather Points & prizes!

Check out Mom Central’s Mother’s Day Gift Guide and Giveaways.  Three of the exciting giveaways include:

See’s Candies: See’s Candies’ variety of mouth-watering sweets will satisfy any taste preference. Give Mom the gift of indulgence with the new line of chocolates from the Keepsake Collection. Featuring both classic flavors as well as the new Strawberry Truffle, this line perfectly coincides with Mother’s Day with pink, yellow and orange designs brightening up the boxes.

“L’Occitane Experience” Vivabox: Luckily for gift-givers (and receivers!) everywhere, Vivabox has revamped the traditional gift card with their gift box packages. Packaged by theme, each Vivabox includes gift items to use or taste as well as a gift card. With themes ranging from “Spa Beauty” to “Gourmet to your Door” and “Bar-B-Que,” Vivabox offers gift card packages catering to the hobbies and interests of both men and women.

Shark Cordless: Sometimes pulling out the big vacuum can be a pain in the neck…literally. Not only does carrying the weight cause stress on your body, but the constant bending and pushing to get into nooks and crannies can be time consuming. Help make cleaning easier for Mom with the Shark Cordless Floor and Carpet Cleaner, or better yet, offer to help with the chores yourself.

Serta is partnering with Bonavita, producer of fine children’s furnishings, to deliver a special gift to one lucky mom this Mother’s Day.  Enter for your chance to win a Baby Furniture Bundle that includes a Bonavita Lifestyle Crib and Double Dresser, a Serta Tranquility Eco Firm crib mattress and a limited edition Serta Counting Sheep plush toy.

It’s easy to participate – so even the busiest moms and moms-to-be can enter to win.  Simply follow both @SertaMattresses and @Bonavita on Twitter (if you aren’t already following). You must be a current follower of both by 5/5/10 to be eligible. Then, share your favorite “Mom Advice” via twitter using the hashtag #MammaSaid– whether it’s words of wisdom from your mom or your own advice – and you will be entered for a chance to win.  Limit one entry per day.  Your first entry per day will be considered your eligible entry.

One grand prize (ARV: $1,635.00):

• One Serta Tranquility Eco Firm Crib Mattress
• One Bonavita Lifestyle Crib – Liberty Collection
• One Bonavita Double Dresser – Liberty Collection
• One limited edition Serta Counting Sheep plush toy

This contest ends Wednesday, May 5th at 11:59 pm EST. This contest is open to U.S. residents only.   See the Official Rules at http://bit.ly/MammaSaid.
Don’t forget to stay up to date on Serta’s latest news, contests and sweepstakes by finding them on Facebook and following them on Twitter (@SertaMattresses). Check out Bonavita’s fabulous collection of children’s furniture, too!  You can find them on Facebook and Twitter (@Bonavita).

Next to a hug, there’s noting cozier than Nuddle, Nuddle Kids, and Nuddle Baby (Nap + Cuddle = Nuddle).  Plush, comfortable, and cleverly functional, this lounging blanket will wrap you in pure plush happiness year round. The double-sided design features an exclusive foot pocket, outer hand pouch, and openings to keep hands free for reading, snacking or just napping!

This Mother’s day, 20 lucky moms will win $25 each in Nuddle money to purchase a blanket of their choice

Here’s How:

From now Until Mother’s Day Just log on to “Nuddle Blanket” on Facebook and become a “fan” and tell us your perfect way to get cozy – you will be automatically entered in the Mother’s Day Raffle. Remember, no matter if its 20 below or the middle of summer everyone loves to be cozy so we welcome you to visit  and visit Nuddle on Facebook. Good Luck and Happy Mother’s Day!

*Winners will be announced May 10th

DISCOUNTS & DEALS

Target® has the lowest prices of the season on great gadget gifts for Mom. Guests can take advantage of free GiftCard® and gift with purchase deals, and benefit from big savings in time for Mother’s Day on May 9.

Lowest prices of the season:

• Philips 7” portable DVD player on sale for $59 (save over $30)
• TomTom Ease GPS with 3.5” touch screen, on sale for $89 (save over $30)
• Kodak M530 12MP digital camera on sale for $99 (save over $30)

Free Target GiftCard with purchase:

• $20 GiftCard with Flip MinoHD 120-minute camcorder, on sale for $195 (save $34.99)
• $20 GiftCard with Apple 8GB iPod Touch ($195), or $15 GiftCard with 8GB iPod Nano ($145)

Free gift with purchase:

• Free copy of Mario & Luigi: Bowser’s Inside Story ($34.99 value) when you purchase a white Nintendo DSi handheld game system ($169.99)
• Buy one Kodak photo DVD ($14.99), get one free!

Great photo gift deals:

• Kodak 8.5×11” photo book on sale for $19.99 in the Target Photo Center
• Nikon Coolpix S4000 digital camera kit with 12MP camera, case and 2GB SD card, on sale for $149.99 (save $80)
• Canon PowerShot SD1300 IS digital camera kit with 12.1 MP camera, case, and 2GB SD card, on sale for $179.99 (save $50)
• Fujifilm Finepix Z70 digital camera kit with 12MP camera, case and 4GB SDHC card, on sale for $119.99 (save $65)
• $170 in available savings on each of two Digital SLR bundles: Canon XS + 75-300mm lens, or Nikon D3000 + 55-200mm lens

Freshology, the leading purveyor of home-delivered healthy gourmet diet food nationwide, launches its latest meal program aimed at getting new moms looking and feeling great in no time.  FreshMommy by Freshology is a nutritionally-balanced, gourmet home meal delivery service made with the healthiest ingredients available and prepared by top chefs.  Specifically designed for the purpose of proper nutrition while nursing, safe and effective weight loss, and maintaining a healthy lifestyle, FreshMommy includes four meals daily cooked fresh and delivered directly to clients’ doorsteps twice weekly.

“FreshMommy has been a huge success in Los Angeles and throughout Southern California for over three years, and we’re excited to now offer it nationally as part of our growing Freshology meal program portfolio,” said Rose DeMann, Freshology Creative Director.  “After the newborn arrives, mom’s focus invariably shifts to her child, while her own health becomes an afterthought.  FreshMommy provides these new moms a simple, healthy and delicious way to get them back to looking and feeling great.  It also takes the guess work out of eating a balanced, nutrient-rich diet during pregnancy.  Now, women in all parts of the country will have access to the program that has been making celebrity magazine headlines since its launch.”

Using only lean protein, seasonal vegetables, fresh meats, and whole fruit for optimal taste, all FreshMommy meals are preservative-free and designed to help mom’s achieve safe and effective weight loss; increase stamina, energy levels and mental clarity; lower insulin levels; improve skin tone and learn portion control.  Program options include 14, 20, 21 and 28 day packages with breakfast, lunch, dinner and dessert delivered daily.  The Nursing Mothers option is comprised of 1,800 to 2,000 calories in each day’s serving while the Weight Loss & Lifestyle option provides between 1,200 and 1,400 calories daily.  To help limit the newborn’s gas and fussiness, cauliflower, broccoli, cabbage, beans and spicy foods are not found in the Nursing Mother option.

FreshMommy is normally priced at $42.95 per day, plus shipping and handling.  In celebration of Mother’s Day, throughout May the program will be available nationwide at only $39.95 per day, with shipping included, saving customers $228.00 on a 28-day program.  To register for this offer, visit http://www.freshology.com/freshmommynationwide/ and enter promotional code MOMMY10. All meals are color-coded in the order in which they should be consumed, and meal heating instructions are provided.  Freshology uses state-of-the-art production methods to ensure quality and freshness.

A great tip consumers should keep in mind when shopping for mom this Mother’s Day is to use online promotional coupons to help save money.  Promotional code websites list the discounts and deals for online and brick & mortar stores to help buy extravagant presents, without breaking the bank.

Sites like DealHunting.com & CurrentCodes.com offer online coupons and discounts to thousands of online stores divided into categories like jewelry, gifts, accessories, clothes, flowers, activities and many more.  Below are a few examples taken from CurrentCodes.com.

• 15% off Mother’s Day Cards at CardStore.com with the code “LOVEMOM”
• $5 off any purchase at JustFlowers with the code “mother”
• 20% off at LimogesJewelry with the code “MOMDAY20?
• $5 off any purchase at PerfumeEmporium with the code “BESTMOM”
• 20% off FlattenMe Personalized Storybooks with the code “SUPERMOM”

Mother’s Day is right around the corner and a great opportunity to honor your mothers, save money on gifts, and simultaneously support the nonprofit organization you care about!

When you buy your Mother’s Day gifts, you can (without spending anything extra) give money to the nonprofit of your choice!  GoodShop.com is an online mall which has partnered with more than 1,400 stores including 1-800-Flowers begin_of_the_skype_highlighting              1-800-Flowers      end_of_the_skype_highlighting, Godiva, Gourmet Gift Baskets, and Zales among others. The site lists hundreds of great coupons and deals – ranging from free shipping, percentages off, buy-one-get-one deals, and money back on future orders – and gives a percentage of every purchase back to the charity designated by its users!

Here’s how it works:

1. Go to www.GoodShop.com
2. Designate your favorite cause (such as your school, your church/temple, the American Red Cross, the ASPCA, or the Nature Conservancy among 90,000+ others)
3. Enter the store where you want to shop and get a list of coupons
4. Shop as you normally would and a percentage of what you spend goes back to your (or your mom’s) favorite cause!

Here are a few sample coupons:

• Save 15% when you shop at Gourmet Gift Baskets and give 5% of your purchase back to your cause
• Order  a Rose bouquet and get a free heart pendant and a complimentary $10 Gift Voucher when you shop through Fleurop
• Receive a free Mother’s Day photo card with any order when you shop at PhotoWorks and give 9% to your designated nonprofit
• Get 15% off your order at David’s Cookies when you shop through GoodShop and give up to 7.5% donation
• 20% off and free shipping on all orders at Limogés Jewelry

GoodShop has been featured by The View, Oprah Magazine, The New York Times, ABC News as well as hundreds of other press outlets.

We know how much moms love OKA b. sandals. But OKA b. loves moms even more! To let you know just how much, here’s an exclusive Mother’s Day Promotion.

Receive 20% off your entire online order between now and May 15th with coupon code INSIDER20.

Need a style suggestion? Consider the Slate Lucy adorned with natural seashell flower – perfect to go with your (or mom’s) sassy dress for brunch this year.

Happy Mother’s Day from OKA b.!

ps. Don’t forget free shipping for orders over $75!

If you’re looking for a great resource for Mother’s Day, please consider Spreadshirt – a great website for creating, buying and even selling—personalized apparel and accessories…perfect for gift-giving!  And between now and May 4th, Spreadshirt is even offering FREE shipping just for mom!

Spreadshirt offers a variety of products from tees, tanks, hoodies, aprons, bathrobes and more. Check out all the great Mother’s Day suggestions on their “Gifts” page to help get your creative juices flowing—then design your own, thoughtful, one-of-a-kind gift.

Designing your gift is fun and easy. Select Mom’s gift and then write a meaningful or witty message. You can also add an image of your own or select from thousands of designs that Spreadshirt has to offer. Mom will love the thought and special meaning put into the gift!

Free standard shipping is being offered on all women’s products when the checkout basket is $35 or more.  This special is available now through May 4th.   You can’t beat free shipping AND a personalized gift that Mom will love because of the thought behind it!

OF INTEREST…

Sandy Sandler, do it yourself craft and home décor and gift expert provides simple, budget friendly Mother’s Day crafts and gifts kids can create for their mom. In addition, Sandler, who is the founder of non-profit www.C4K555.org and creator of the best selling Bowdabra, is providing several fun, easy and cost-effective projects that kids and parents can do in under 5 minutes and under $5.

“A mom cherishes nothing more than a gift from her child – especially one that they took the time to create,” Sandler says. “There are Mother’s Day gifts and spring crafts easy enough for dad to help out too.”

From jewelry to spring inspirations, Sandler is providing free step-by-step projects to complete at www.C4K555.org.

Examples of the 555 Mother’s Day & Spring Projects include:

• Basil Infused Vinegar: An extravagant gift perfect for Mother’s Day, special occasions, and as a hostess gift. Basil is placed into a White Wine Vinegar Bottle and then the bottle is decorated with ribbon and faux flowers.
• Beaded Spring Cinnamon Stick: Not just for Fall, cinnamon sticks make a beautiful scented decoration all year long by using simple kid-friendly craft items: pipe cleaners, beads, and ribbon. This craft is not only a great spring decoration but makes a precious Mother’s Day gift or grandmother’s gift.
• Mother’s Day Necklace: This beaded spring necklace is an easy craft for children to make for their mother or other family members. Beads and lacing cord is a great item for school age children to use to make necklaces and bracelets for themselves or as gifts.
• Lollipop Spring Bouquet: What is not to love; candy and flowers? This is an easy craft for school age children to make and the perfect gift for a Mother or other family members to receive. Simple scrapbooking shapes, lollipops, and pipe cleaners are needed to make this craft. Give one lollipop flower or a whole bouquet of flowers for Mother’s Day, spring gift, or as a teacher’s gift.
• Magnet Picture Frames: A Mother’ Day gift; spring themed Magnet Picture Frames made using Popsicle sticks embellished with buttons and shells. Mom will enjoy her favorite photos taped onto the top of the scrapbooking paper.
• Floral Pen Arrangement: This easy kid-friendly craft is mess-free and so elegant; perfect gift for Mother’s Day or as a teacher’s gift. Children can easily make the pens by wrapping electrical tape around a pen and a faux flower stem.
• Spring Grapevine Wreath: Reuse a grapevine wreath from another holiday to make this Spring Grapevine Wreath. Wrap the wreath with strings of beads or beaded Christmas garland. Attach ribbon and spring faux flowers to the side of the wreath.

“Crafting is often about reusing and recycling decorations,” she adds, “Spending time together making cost effective and creative gifts helps create family memories and new traditions. A wealth of creativity and hours of fun await with these 555 projects.”

To learn more, visit: www.C4K555.org.

The International Rescue Committee is celebrating the strength and resilience of mothers this Mother’s Day by offering meaningful gifts that will make a difference in the lives of people far from the comfort and safety of home – refugee families.

At fromharmtohome.org, shoppers can help purchase critical supplies for refugees in honor of the wonderful women in their lives. Gifts start at as little as $18.

So, instead of buying your mom a new scarf or a bouquet of flowers, you can honor her by purchasing a $24 safe birthing kit for a refugee mother, which includes vital supplies for a safe home delivery in a conflict zone, plus a blanket and clothing for a newborn.

Other gift options include:

• Mosquito nets for a refugee family in Africa – $18
• Essential pre-natal care for a new mother living in a war zone – $52
• One year’s education for an Afghan girl – $52
• A farming kit, including seeds and tools, to help a family grow food – $60
• Summer school for a newly arrived refugee child in the U.S. – $100
• Job training for a refugee to help her become self-sufficient – $330

In return, the IRC will send mothers being honored a beautiful, personalized Mother’s Day card in the gift-giver’s name.

Expectant parents can once again Babymoon in style with the fashionable re-vamp of W Hotels’ exclusive Baby Me package. “Babymoons,” a phenomenon rapidly growing in popularity among expecting couples, are vacations tailored to parents-to-be who want to indulge in one last getaway before their bundle of joy arrives. Beginning this month, to give modern moms a head start, W will re-launch its best-selling Baby Me package with new flair, offering mothers-to-be a swanky style bible and posh Metallic Baby Mocs from W Hotels The Store as part of their Babymoon. W will extend this stylish package to hotels throughout the United States, creating an escape to remember filled with blissful pampering and sweet indulgences.

May 3, 2010 through December 31, 2010, expectant parents who book W’s better-than-ever Baby Me package will be treated to a variety of Babymoon treats, including:

• A Wonderful Room at any participating W Hotels location (USA)
• A copy of Bump it Up, Amy Tara Koch’s pregnancy style bible for the chic mommy-to-be
• A stylish cotton ‘Whoops’ Onesie to keep baby cozy once he/she arrives
• A pair of adorable Metallic Baby Mocs from W Hotels The Store to keep little tootsies toasty
• Three items from the “Womb Service” menu, sure to satisfy any sweet and salty craving.

Baby Me guests also have the option of adding on a Bliss Spa Great Expectations massage during their Babymoon stay. Available at all hotels that feature a Bliss Spa, this bump-friendly version of the Blissage75 massage uses Mama Mio products to help maxed-out moms-to-be relax and relieve tired muscles, tension, swelling, overstretched and itchy skin, and sluggish circulation.

W’s Baby Me package is available at the following W Hotels: W New York; W New York – Times Square; W New York – Union Square; W Atlanta – Perimeter; W Chicago – Lakeshore; W Chicago – City Center; W Dallas; W Fort Lauderdale; W Minneapolis; W San Diego; W Silicon Valley; and W Washington DC. Rates vary per hotel. For further information, please visit www.whotels.com.

The second Sunday in May offers an annual opportunity to honor Mothers across the nation. It is an occasion to commemorate and celebrate their countless contributions with gifts of love. When it comes to Mom’s priorities, children’s needs come first.  What better way to honor Mom than by helping disadvantaged Mothers provide for their children? World Vision Gift Catalog offers a variety of opportunities to assist Mothers and their families in Haiti and around the world, by purchasing essential life-sustaining items.

As a first responder to the January 12 Haitian earthquake, World Vision has provided assistance to more than a million people. Since the quake, nineteen Child-Friendly Spaces have been opened and offer children a chance to be children – to play, learn and heal from emotional trauma. Thirteen health clinics in Port-au-Prince offer medical care and hope to families. Relief efforts are ongoing and support is still needed to help build a brighter future for the children of Haiti.

Gifts that will aid children and families in Haiti include:

• Ongoing support that helps rebuild lives and communities, providing safe places for children and clean water ($20 per month)
• Food and health care ($50 provides $150 worth of care)
• Long-term aid, including food, medical care, building and farming supplies ($75 provides $225 worth of aid)

“Mother’s Day is a time for celebrating life, and for giving back to others,” says World Vision Gift Catalog National Director Devin Hermanson. “There’s no better way to celebrate than to provide a gift of lifesaving supplies to a needy family, while teaching your own children about giving to others.”

The World Vision Gift Catalog, located at www.worldvisiongifts.org, offers more than 100 poverty-fighting gifts ranging in price from $16 to $39,000 that can be purchased in the name of a mother, child, friend, or loved one. In addition to specific products,World Vision has created a series of funds to support immediate and long-term needs of quake survivors in Haiti.

After purchasing a Gift Catalog item, the recipient in turn receives a special card describing the gift that was purchased and the impact it will have in the life of a person in need.

Mother’s Day is the one day a year when Mom has full permission to sit back, relax, and enjoy being the one doted upon.

So, come May 9, what should kids do to give Mom the full “thanks” she deserves?  Below please find a number of Mom-worthy crafts and recipes from the editors of Disney FamilyFun magazine.  A few may require another adult’s help, but all offer a personalized way for kids to celebrate Mom to the fullest on her special day.

• Queen for a Day Cupcakes: This Mother’s Day give the moms in your life the royal treatment by serving up these tiny sweets. (In the May 2010 issue of Disney FamilyFun)
• Beauty Mask: This eye pillow, filled with lavender and flaxseed, is a Mother’s Day gift that actually takes something away: stress!
• Button Bracelet: This sweet and simple craft features well-loved faces all in one place and makes a great gift for Mom on her special day.



• Purse-onal Greetings: Need a great gift that Mom will love? We’ve got it in the bag. This fancy, one-of-a-kind handbag holds just what Mom needs this Mother’s Day: a message of love.
• Mother’s Day Box: Made with love, this magical wonder issues a steady flow of surprises and gifts.
• Paper Blossoms: A bare branch, tissue paper, and glue are all it takes to present Mom with a bouquet of delicate, easy-care blossoms she’ll love.
• Bagel Family Portrait: Breakfast in bed on Mother’s Day is a tradition that will never go out of style. But it could stand to be jazzed up a bit. So we here at FamilyFun came up with the perfect solution: bagel portraits of Mom and the kids created by the kids (with a little help from Dad).
• Garland Card: This clever garland card is an unexpected way to wish a mother the best on her big day or send fun greetings on any occasion. Use a mint or candy tin to create this craft! (In the May 2010 issue of Disney FamilyFun)

Follow @familyfun on Twitter and become a fan of Disney FamilyFun on Facebook at facebook.com/DisneyFamilyFun!

Mother’s Day is a little more than one week away, and children may be wondering how they can show mom or grandma just how much she really means to them. Crafts are an enjoyable and unique way for kids to make the perfect gift for mom or grandma, and this gift will be truly irreplaceable!

Below are some suggestions for Mother’s Day crafts for children, from Debbie Scaccio, Arts & Crafts Specialist, and the staff at Block Institute. Block is an educational facility in New York City dedicated to providing services to children and adults with special needs ranging from global development delays to cerebral palsy and many other conditions.

The suggestions below were specifically thought of for children with special needs, but most any child will find these crafty projects enjoyable!

• Tissue paper flowers.  With the help of an adult, cut 2or 3 inch circles out of tissue paper. Attach with a chenille stem (pipe cleaner) by slightly poking a hole through 6 tissue paper circles. Have the child crumple each circle individually in the shape of a flower. You can make 3 or more flowers to make a lovely bouquet.
• Decoupage vase. Using tissue paper or magazine pictures, cut out or tear assorted shapes. Glue them with a white glue to an empty water bottle or other long necked plastic bottle. Place the paper over the entire bottle. Finish with a coat of a clear glaze, like Modge Podge. You may want to place fresh flowers or tissue paper flowers in the vase.
• Construction paper cards. Using colored construction paper, cut the shape of a butterfly, flower or a heart. Fold in half so the card is symmetrical. Have the child decorate the card with stickers or peel and stick foam stickers. Add a Mother’s Day poem to the center of the card
• Wood Jewelry Box. Decorate a store bought wood box with paint using a sea sponge. Have the child dip the sponge into a paper plate with assorted paint colors and gently dab the sponge on the box, creating different colors and textures. Let dry. Seal the box with a glaze. Decorate with assorted plastic gemstones and pearls.
• Potpourri sachets. Buy store bought dried flowers or potpourri. Cut a 6 inch piece of nylon tulle or other lightweight cotton fabric. Place the potpourri in the middle of the fabric and help the child place a rubber band around the edges. Secure the sachet with a satin or other ribbon.

As Mother’s Day approaches, American Airlines invites customers to join the fight against breast cancer while honoring the important women in their lives on May 9.

Purchasing an American Airlines Gift Card is a great way to surprise mom with the gift of travel. While the card presents a way to literally give her the world, it’s a gift that will also contribute to the battle against breast cancer, as American will donate $5 for every $50 of travel purchased to Susan G. Komen for the Cure® when you select the Komen Gift Card option.

Another way to honor women this month is by making a donation to Komen for the Cure through American’s Miles for the Cure® fundraising campaign. Miles for the Cure rewards donors with five AAdvantage® miles for every dollar contributed to Komen with a minimum $25 donation.

“For more than 26 years, American Airlines has partnered with Komen in its mission to end breast cancer forever,” said Roger Frizzell, American’s Vice President – Corporate Communications and Advertising. “Mother’s Day is an important time for all of us to renew our efforts against breast cancer. We invite our customers to join us in that fight while honoring the women in their lives who have been affected by this disease.”

American customers can learn more about both gift options by simply visiting www.aa.com/komen. Miles for the Cure donations can be general contributions or gifts made to celebrate and honor a loved one’s survivorship or in memory of a loved one. When an “In Honor” or “In Memory” gift is received, Komen will send a personalized tribute card to the recipient, notifying them of the donation without revealing the amount.

The American Airlines Gift Card is available in denominations from $50 to $1,500 and can be applied toward the purchase of any American Airlines, American Eagle or AmericanConnection carrier published fare. Unlike many gift cards, there is no expiration date. To purchase the gift cards and support Komen, simply go to AA.com/gift card. When completing the payment information, enter “Komen” in the tracking code box. Donations to Komen apply to online purchases only.

PRODUCT NEWS

This Mother’s Day celebrate with grace – Isabelle Grace Jewelry, that is. Whether you’re a son or daughter, husband or father-to-be, cherish the mom in your life with grace by giving her the elegant From Child To Mom necklace or the Mom’s Heart necklace.

The From Child To Mom necklace features the words “Mom” on one side and “You Make Me Bloom” on the other, along with a freshwater pearl representing a seed, and is available at www.isabellegracejewelry.com for $85.

The Mom’s Heart Necklace features the words “Mom” on one side and “You Hold My Heart” on the other, and is available at www.isabellegracejewelry.com for $95.

Both are handcrafted out of fine (.999) silver and 24kt gold.

An Irish tradition of using baby gowns is gaining popularity in North America – just in time for Mother’s Day for the mom-to-be!

Precious & Few has designed a special family heirloom that will create a lasting memory and will be cherished for years to come. Their gown collection features simple, yet classic styles for infants on a very important day like a baby dedication, Christening or Baptism. Their line bridges an Irish tradition with modern styles for today’s parents.

Choose from their Embroidered Gown, the Heirloom Coatdress or their popular Rosebuds and Lace. Styles are available with gorgeous, high-quality materials including fine linen and silk fabrics. The gowns can be monogrammed to personalize for your little one, and passed down from generation to generation. See these savvy designs at: www.preciousfew.com.

Weighing a whopping one pound and measuring 5.25” x 6” inches, a special delivery can be welcomed to family rooms everywhere – LOADED QUESTIONS PARENTING 101. Just in time for Mother’s Day, the newest addition to the Loaded Questions family is longer lasting and more creative than chocolate or flowers, more affordable than jewelry, and provides hours of fun and laughter for every mom!

Like the original game (over one million sold), LOADED QUESTIONS PARENTING 101 tests players on how well they know each other with 200 new questions designed to spark hilarious and creative discussion. Expect questions like ‘What would you not want your child to bring into show and tell’, ‘What is the worst way to tell your children that Santa Clause is not real’, and ‘What action would cause you to question your spouse’s parenting skills?

’LOADED QUESTIONS creator, Eric Poses, is the father of two young daughters, and found inspiration all around him for his latest offspring. Mealtime, play dates and road trips easily translated into questions that every parent (and expecting parent) can relate to and find hilarious.

While Poses created his newest game specifically for parents (and expecting ones), the whole family can enjoy playing. And if the kids think you’re having too much fun, the new LOADED QUESTIONS JUNIOR can be your Mother’s Day gift to them.

LOADED QUESTIONS PARENTING 101 retails for $11.99, and is available in time for Mother’s Day at Amazon (affiliate link) and www.loadedquestions.com.

This Mothers Day, make mom a KODAK Picture Movie DVD, because there’s no better way to honor your mother than tell her story in a captivating way with a personalized gift from the heart. Plus through May 9, you can buy one get one free!

• To download the coupon for the BOGO KODAK Picture Movie DVD, click here: http://www.kodak.com/go/honoryourmom

• To find a retailer near you with a KODAK Kiosk, click here: http://www.kodak.com/eknec/PageQuerier.jhtml?pq-path=7959&pq-locale=en_US

Picture Movie DVDs combine your favorite photos with a meaningful song and are created directly on a Kodak Kiosk in just minutes. You can find a Kodak Kiosk at a nearby Target or CVS, and instead of spending the regular $15.00, this Mother’s Day you can make two for the price of one. Now you can make one for mom, grandma or even yourself!

What you need to make a Picture Movie DVD:

• A print out of the attached coupon to redeem the BOGO deal
• 40 physical or digital photos on a camera card, thumb drive or DVD
• A story you want to share

If you’re stuck on what story to share, here are some ideas you can use to honor your mother with a KODAK Picture Movie DVD:

Mom

• Windsurf Mom: Highlight family vacations over the years
• Mom and her Kids: What has happened from birth to college? Plenty.
• Fashion Mom: Show all of mom’s crazy outfits, from Sunday best to cooking in the kitchen
• Mom and Her Man: It’s a love story

Grandmother

• Grandma and Grandpa: Collect old photos from her attic and create a timeline of how she met grandpa.
• Time-Travel Grandma: If grandma has traveled from another country or been part of a historical moment, tell her story.
• Everything I learned, I learned from Grandma: showcase Grandma’s multitude of skills, whether it’s her cooking her special sauce, fixing the car or jogging a marathon.

A picture movie DVD is a lasting, meaningful way to honor your mother and share your favorite moments together. When the family is together, everyone can gather around the TV and watch the story you’ve chosen to share about mom.

Mother’s Day is just a few weeks away and Zappos is your one stop shop for Mother’s Day gifts.  Zappos has something for every mom, whether she is the fashionista, the mom on the go, the athletic mom, or the mom who does it all. Being a one-stop-shop, Zappos offers great gifts in apparel, pajamas, handbags, accessories, housewares, and spa and beauty products.

With so many different styles and personalities, it can sometimes be challenging to find the perfect gift for Mom.  Zappos makes it easy to browse through the site. Zappos even has a gift page with some great gift ideas!  And if Mom is already an avid Zappos shopper, she knows there are always new products, brands and styles available at Zappos.com.

Zappos is a valuable resource when shopping for Mom this Mother’s Day – and free shipping both ways doesn’t hurt either! Zappos is known for Delivering Happiness…so Mom is sure to love!

Instead of flowers this Mother’s Day, why not give her accessories that will comfort and protect her all summer long?

Here are a few great gift ideas…

1. To protect her face: Wallaroo – Does your mom enjoy spending her time outdoors during the summer months? Protect mom’s hair and delicate skin with a Wallaroo hat.  The Aussie-inspired Wallaroo Hat Company offers a line of stylish hats with a built-in Ultraviolet Protection Factor of 50+, defending mom’s tresses from the harsh, drying rays.  The crushable hats can easily be packed in her favorite beach tote and are a fashionably smart way to top off her beach ensemble.
2. To keep her clothes in place: Braza – Mom never let you down, so get her the gift that never lets her down.  Braza—the creators of the first adhesive bra for backless, strapless fashions—has a wide array of fashion fixes, from Strap Keepers to Magic Clips to Upsie Daisies, that will give her the support that she deserves.
3. To sooth her feet from high heels: Gehwol – On-the-go Moms shouldn’t have to keep those high heels tucked away in her closet. Let her show off those sexy stilettos with Gehwol’s soft gel cushions.  They move with the foot instead of the shoe, providing comfort without the fuss of sticky, sliding pads.
4. Whether after a long day at the office or spending the day chasing the kids around, Moms need a little pampering too.  Gehwol’s Fusscraft Bamboo Scrub is the perfect gift to help remove surface skin scales for a smoother more polished heel.

In juggling a packed schedule that includes working, taking care of the kids, handling the day’s errands and even squeezing in some time at the gym, moms today are busier than ever.  That’s why this Mother’s Day, (RED) has all the essentials to keep moms-on-the-go organized and prepared for the day’s adventures with a variety of gifts that help give back to mothers with HIV/AIDS in Africa — all packed conveniently into the versatile (Bugaboo)RED bag.   Whether they need something for the office, travel or little league practice, (RED) has it covered for even the busiest of moms.

AIDS is a preventable and treatable disease that has orphaned more than 13 million children in Africa. For every (PRODUCT)RED item sold, up to 50% of profits will go to the Global Fund to benefit HIV and AIDS programs in Africa with a focus on the health of women and children and preventing the spread of the disease from mother to child.

Give Mom (RED) This Year!

For work:

• (Bugaboo)RED Bag: Practical enough for play dates, yet stylish enough for afternoon meetings with must-have features and storage options that help moms save time and stay organized.
• (RED) Dell Mini Netbook: With a sleek, lightweight design this fully equipped netbook lets mom stay connected no matter where she may be.

For Errands:

• (Starbucks)RED Gift Card: Give mom a pick-me-up to get her though a demanding day, all while giving back to those in need.
• (Converse)RED “I heart ___” Shoe: A great gift for the hip mom, these newly released kicks let you show the world how much you love her.
• (Gap)RED T: Comfortable, laid back, and fun, these graphic T’s are a terrific fit for moms who appreciate when fashion and function collide.
• (Bugaboo) RED Cameleon Denim Stroller: Perfect to cart the kids around, this modern, high quality stroller is customizable and equipped for multiple terrains.

For the Gym:

• (PRODUCT)RED iPod Nano Special Edition:  For the mom who likes to tune out while toning up, now with advanced features including a built in pedometer, AM/FM radio, and Genius capability.
• (PRODUCT)RED Special Edition Beats Solo Headphones from Monster: These ultimate high performance headphones by Dr. Dre and Lady Gaga help mom stay in the zone while she hits the gym.

Mother’s Day is right around the corner and there are still plenty of folks searching for the perfect gift for that special lady in their lives.  If Mom likes to show off pictures of her kids or grandchildren, then Epson has the perfect gift for her:  a 2-in-1 portable photo printer and digital frame that produces better-than-lab quality prints in as little as 37 seconds.

The Epson PictureMate Show’s seven-inch screen allows users to view photos in 12 entertaining slideshows formats and is conveniently operated with a remote control, keeping the screen fingerprint-free. Users also have the option of printing in a variety of effects (black and white, sepia and color), selecting different layouts (wallet-sized, mini-wallets, 4-per-page, 16-per-page, proof sheets, and borders) and printing 4”x6” photos on matte or glossy paper.  With ink that is smudge, scratch, water and fade resistant, Mom can be sure that prints will last a lifetime!

The portable PictureMate Show allows Mom to display her most memorable moments on the digital frame, as well as print beautiful family and vacation photos to show to friends.

HAPPY MOTHER’S DAY!

Happy Mother’s Day from hoops&yoyo – check out this hilarious audio of the funny green bunny and pink kitty – and please remember that Mommy’s everywhere can use and find humor at www.hoopsandyoyo.com, sending some love to their family. Even children can use this site for games, activities and more without Mommy having to worry!!

Download this MP3 – (Right Click)

That’s it for this week, happy Friday and check back next week for more ‘Deals & Steals’!