Best Valentines Day gifts for women: Valentine presents for moms, girlfriends and wives

Did you put off Valentine's Day for your gal? Now at the last minute, Feb. 14, you grab chocolates and flowers. Sorry guys, thanks for the thought, but boring. Here are frugal, thoughtful Valentine gifts for women--wife, mom, girlfriend--that will delight. Use for women's birthday, Christmas, Mother's Day gifts.

First what not to buy: candy (she may be dieting and it's
impersonal), bouquet of flowers (she may have allergies, it's also impersonal, they die quickly), sexy lingerie (unless you know her size FOR SURE, you'll either get it too small or too big. Both cause seven levels of drama), stuffed animals or other stupid tchotchkis (childish, impersonal), sex toys (unless she specifically asked for a vibrator, it's just a bad idea).

Also avoid anything that represents work. Women work all the time. So you get her a waffle iron--oh how nice. She can jump right up and go make everyone waffles. Seriously, guys, would you want a weed whacker for Valentine's Day? On heart day, women need to be pampered.

How about a spa Valentine's Day gift, suggested the Christian Science Monitor Feb. 13. Women love long soaks in a hot tub. If you can't afford to treat your woman to a spa day, no problem. Make a spa kit. Include any or all of the following: plush bathrobe, slippers, spa head wrap, eye patch, loofah sponge, back scrubbing brush, wooden massage beads, body scrubber, natural sponge, spa scrubbing gloves, bath pillow, neck roll, bath oil, bath salts, spa mud face mask and of course, cucumbers for eyes.

Bed. Bath and Beyond carries the above spa supplies and bath tub caddie. This metal or wooden rack attaches to the side of the tub. The bath book holder has an easel to hold her book upright. There's a special holders wine glass, candle, flower vase and a surface for spa treats. Remember to include a wine glass, bottle of wine (or tea mug and favorite tea), fresh rose bud (you may give one), chocolates (just a couple) and a copy of the newest book by her favorite author.

You will win that special woman's heart with this gift from the heart.

Educational Preschool Gifts that Won't Bankrupt the Budget

Every Christmas, I say to myself, "I'm not going overboard shopping for the kids this year." And each year, I do. But at least, I'm a good bargain-hunter. I may overspend a little but I get lots of bang for my holiday buck! As a teacher and mom, I insist on educational toys and gifts. Here are low-cost, high-learning toys and gifts for preschool-age kids.  Read more

Cheap, parent-friendly kids' birthday party tips

As a mom to four kids, ages 24 to 14, I've planned a plethora of kids' parties. I'm also a teacher and I've hosted numerous classroom events. There are some misconceptions among parents, about what kids do and don't want for parties (and gifts). Bottom line is, they're not selfish and hard to please, IF, they aren't taught to be. Planning parties, I've had some great successes and colossal fails. From those experiences, I've compiled a list of tips for parents on planning kids' parties. Being a frugalista, these hints focus on cheap, homemade party ideas. My kids' friends still remember my parties as being tons of fun (it's my secret that most only cost me about $10 to put on!) Cheap, parent-friendly kids' birthday party tips

50 Father's Day Gifts Under $10

50 Father's Day Gifts Under $10 Father's Day usually finds me with more men in my life than money in my purse. I love to find great gifts for dad, father-in-law, grandfather, our priest. Here are 50+ Father's Day gifts all priced under $10 each. And not a tie on the list! Read More

Gifts for Moms, Wives and Women Under $10

Inexpensive Mother's Day Gifts Under $10 Mother's Day, the second Sunday of May, often finds loved ones long on love, but short on cash. How can you honor your mother and show her that you care when the pennies already being pinched? Here are dozens of great gift ideas for mom under $10. Read More

Gifts for Mom Under $10

50+ Mother's Day Gifts Priced Under $10 Mother's Day is not about the gifts, but many people like to show their love with a gift. Gift giving can get expensive. Here is a list of Mother's Day gifts priced under $10 each.
Read on

Black Friday Shopping Tips

Black Friday Shopping in the Muskegon-Grand Haven Area Detailed strategy for the Black Friday shopping circuit with as little hassle, back-tracking and waiting in line. Provides a 'time-line', store and merchandise overview and general shopping tips.
View more »

50 Wedding Gift Ideas Priced Under $10

50 Wedding or Bridal Shower Gifts Regularly Priced Under $10 Think you can't buy a decent wedding gift for less than $10? Surprise! You can find over 50 great wedding gifts priced under $10! Great for shower prizes and hostess gifts, too. View more »

Cheap, Tasteful Wedding Gifts

Wedding Gift Giving FAQs tips for wedding gift giving based upon Frequently Asked Questions. Includes ideas, stores and shopping strategies. View more »

Cheap, Homemade Personalized Gift Baskets

Top 10 Gift Baskets: Design Your Own Personalized Gift Baskets!
Recipe for inexpensive baskets of treats! Personalize. Create baskets especially for loved ones. Give it your own special touch! View more »

50 Wedding or Bridal Shower Gifts Under $10

50 Wedding or Bridal Shower Gifts Regularly Priced Under $10
Gift list for wedding gifts priced under $10 from most any local retailer. Great for shower gifts, wedding presents and bridal shower game prizes. View more »