Seven Best Black Friday Shopping Tips

You can get some of the year's best deals on Black Friday, but you can also get a headache. Shopping the day after thanksgiving may not always be easy, but we think its worth it if you can remember these seven best Black Friday Shopping tips:

1. Bring a friend: it's nice to have a partner in crime and especially to have someone to chat with while waiting in line, but make sure your pal can withstand the craziness of this shopping experience.

2. Dress wisely: you may be cold waiting in line but you won't want a lot of bulk if you plan on trying on clothes.

3. Do your homework: make sure you know if you are really getting a deal and compare prices before the big day. Also, store return policies are an important thing to look into.

4. Plan your purchases: make a list of things you want or need to avoid getting sidetracked in the midst of all the chaos.

5. Get there early: most stores have a no rain checks policy meaning if they run out you are out of luck. If there is something you are dying to have you'll want to be at the front of the line.

6. Bring store ads: that way you have proof of advertised sales. If a store claims lowest prices, they'd better live up to it.

7. Crawl in bed and avoid the crowds: ignore the whole tradition and relax in the calm of your own home. You can even do some shopping online.

Have any tips or memorable Black Friday shopping experiences?

Seven Best Thanksgiving Desserts

Around Thanksgiving everyone is so concerned about turkey and side dishes. I think we need to put a little more focus on the finale--dessert! There are many great sweet treats to enjoy over this special holiday, but I have narrowed it down to a few of my favorites. Here are my seven best Thanksgiving desserts:

1. Pumpkin Pie

The old standard with some new twists.

2. Caramel Apples

Fun to eat and fun to make.

3. Cranberry Cheescake

The recipe may seem a little confusing but it's worth it.

4. Chocolate Chip Pecan Pie

Two flavors that go perfectly together.

5. Pumpkin Bars

One word: yum.

6. Old Fashioned Gingerbread

A delicious treat you could even eat with breakfast.

7. Apple Pie

I must admit I prefer pumpkin, but this is a classic (and not bad with a little vanilla ice cream).

Send us your favorite recipes or list!

Seven Best Ways to Give Thanks

Thanksgiving is about a week away and I'm sure you are feeling the need to give back in appreciation for all that you have. We often forget that this holiday is not only about food, but it is also about being thankful. Here are seven good ways to give back this Thanksgiving:

1. Donate canned food or a prepared meal to your local homeless shelter.

2. Do something unexpected for someone. Clean dishes after Thanksgiving dinner without being asked. Run an errand for a busy friend.


3. Drop a compliment to a friend or co-worker. A hand written note is sincere and always makes me feel good. Let someone know how much you appreciate their work, help or friendship.


4. Adopt or foster a shelter pet. I'm sure the little fur balls would be very appreciative of a new home for the holiday.


5. Volunteer your time to a local organization or business. Your time is the most precious and valuable thing you can give another person.


6. Invite a friend or neighbor over for Thanksgiving dinner if they normally spend the holiday alone.


7. Make a toast at the family dinner table. To often people take their family members for granted. Thanksgiving is the perfect opportunity to let them know how much you care.





What traditions do your families have for giving thanks?

Seven Best Books You Were Forced to Read in School

Time magazine put together a list of the best books that you were forced to read in school. Here are their top seven.

1. To Kill a Mockingbird
2. Of Mice and Men
3. A Separate Peace
4. The Catcher in the Rye
5. Animal Farm
6. Lord of the Flies
7. The Great Gatsby
   

Were there any books you were forced to read in school that you later realized were great?





Source:
http://www.time.com/time/specials/packages/article/0,28804,2002836_2002835_2003010,00.html?hpt=C2

Seven Best Thanksgiving Travel Tips

Traveling during Thanksgiving can be a mess. These seven tips will help to reduce the stress.

1. Leave Tuesday. Wednesday and Thursday are two of the biggest traveling days of the year, and you don’t want to be stuck in a car or delayed on a tarmac while waiting to see loved ones. Leaving on Tuesday will give you ample time to arrive, and you are sure to miss the heavy holiday traffic.
   
2. Drive at off-peak hours. The most cars on the road usually occurs between 9am and noon. If you leave very early morning or later in the afternoon, you are more likely to avoid major traffic issues.


3. Put any liquids in a clear plastic bag. If you are flying, you want liquids to be as visible as possible. Remember the 3oz rule, and keep them in a clear plastic bag so that if security asks to search your bag they can be as efficient as possible.


4. Dress for Success. If you are flying, make sure you empty your pockets of loose change, wear minimal jewelry, and avoid a belt. Slip-on shoes are also much easier when you get to the security line, and help to speed the process up.


5. Choose your line. Many airlines now offer different security lines such as expert, casual, and family. If you have children or have to declare liquids or go through customs, the later options will help to ease stress.


6. Utilize technology. Many smart phones now have scanable boarding passes and downloadable airport maps. Use these to your advantage to reduce stress and speed up the process.


7. Buy snacks. With recent cutbacks, many airlines no longer serve food on shorter flights. If you have children make sure to bring food with you, since it may not be available on the plane.
   

Do you have any other holiday travel tips?