Great Holiday Gift Ideas from Best Buy will Leave them Happy Year Round

The reviewer has been compensated in the form of a Best Buy Gift Card and/or received the product/service at a reduced price or for free.

It's not too late to finish the Christmas shopping and sadly, I can admit I'm not done yet even though I normally am.  I've been busy making two Christmas dresses for my daughters so in between, I'm watching and shopping.  One of the places I first stop shopping is via e-mail watching for the great sales such as the ones I receive from Best Buy as with expert service and unbeatable price these top gifts are on my list this Holiday and here's why they should be on yours:

Xbox One is the place for games ... just as my girls!  They love their Xbox and I know the Xbox One is high on their list!  In case you are wondering, what is the Xbox One?  

The Xbox One was built by gamers, for gamers so that probably has a lot of people perking up their ears.  As gamers, we know that gaming products have to be the best because they know gamers demand more! With the best exclusive titles  such as Halo and Sunset Overdrive which my son-in-law loves and the biggest blockbusters like as Assassin’s Creed, which is under the tree for same son-in-law as well as Call of Duty, he's going to have some fun after he opens his presents!  They also have the hottest sports franchises  such as Madden 15, FIFA 15 and NBA 2K15 as well as top family titles like Fantasia: Music Evolved, Just Dance 15 and Skylanders.  Xbox One takes gaming to a whole new level and I doubt you will be sorry when playing these fun games.In addition to being a great gaming console, Xbox one connects consumers unlike any other device as it enables access to the latest TV shows and movies through some of your favorite apps.  No more switching the remote over to different inputs as with the Xbox One, all of your media is at your fingertips when you want it.

Another great gift idea is JBL and you might be asking what is a JBL?  The JBL gives superior sound and easy portability.  When I listen to music, I want clear, vibrant sounds and not a muffled or fuzzy sound.  The JBL is the best choice that I can see and they have the following options:

The JBL Charge 2 has twin passive radiators for deep bass and the massive 6000mAh battery as well as the hands-free conference speakerphone  provides the main benefit of Bluetooth Social Mode.  This allows up to three different users to take their turns to play their own playlists on a single speaker which is a very nice must have if you have a lot of music lovers in your house!

The JBL Flip 2, aside from the dual performance-tuned JBL drivers and a built-in bass port has the key benefit of SoundClear echo and noise cancellation combined with the state-of the art microphone system to pick up calls on the speaker.  What a great feature!

The JBL Reflect Earbud headphones are sweat proof ergonomically designed and anyone who exercises and listens to music knows this is a HUGE pro!  With a five hour rechargeable battery and a reach of about 40 feet, the JBL Reflect BT’s key benefit is the design of the ergonomic eartips along with the built-in magnets which keep your buds on standby without loose cables thus allowing you to have the ultimate run without worrying about sweaty, slipping out buds.

Finally, for those who get lost a lot or travel, no road trip is complete without the Garmin and TomTom!  I need a better GPS system as mine is just horrible.  It tells me when to turn right as I'm supposed to turn, it has no lane assist and to find an address is like asking for a miracle.

The Garmin and TomTom features bluetooth connectivity for hands-free calling, traffic and weather updates.  When you drive, nothing is worse than trying to fumble around and trying to find your phone.  Other great features include lane assist, lifetime traffic and map updates.  Being able to see forthcoming traffic is a time saver and not to mention having updated maps giving the never ending road construction always changing routes.  For the techy lovers, it also has Voice Recognition Technology.   Here are some other great features of the Garmin 52LM:

• 5.0” display

• Maps of 49 U.S. states, plus lifetime map updates

• Lane assist with junction view

• Displays speed limit and accurate arrival time

• Easily find addresses and millions of points of interest

• Spoken turn-by-turn directions

Garmin 2597LMT:

• 5.0” display

• Maps of 49 U.S. states, plus lifetime map updates

• Lane assist with junction view

• Displays speed limit and accurate arrival time

• Easily find addresses and millions of points of interest

• Spoken turn-by-turn directions

 TomTom Go 50s

• Lifetime TomTom Traffic: Drive with TomTom Traffic for the lifetime of your device

• Lifetime Maps (US, Canada, Mexico): Always drive with the latest map

• 3D Maps. See buildings and landmarks in stunning 3D

• 5" touchscreen with advanced lane guidance

This holiday season, Best Buy really does have the best gifts for everyone on your list!  


@BestBuy #HintingSeason@Xbox, @TomTomUSA @Garmin #TomTomGo 

doTERRA Essential Oils Lavender Headache Pad Gift Idea

I just posted the other day how I discovered DoTERRA Essential Oils and now I'm having fun with creating different things.  Since I signed up (my link above), I've been playing around with the different oils trying to see what is helping me and what isn't.  In the meantime, I decided to make a gift for someone who travels a lot and has two Shar Peis. First I purchased an embroidery file on Etsy and then I just took scrap material I already had and cut out two rectangle shapes.  I finished the edges with a zig zag with the fur material to keep it from shedding and on the pouch with my oatmeal and DoTERRA Lavender Essential Oils, I placed a decorative stitch on the edge.

To make the oatmeal mix, add desired drops to oatmeal and allow about a week to dry.  The packs can be used in the microwave or kept in the freezer if you want hot or cold.  The cover will allow her to wash it without having to throw it all away. 

Have you created anything with your essential oils?

To learn more, just click here for doTERRA.

About Essential Oils:

f you have ever enjoyed the scent of a rose, you’ve experienced the aromatic qualities of essential oils. These naturally occurring, volatile aromatic compounds are found in the seeds, bark, stems, roots, flowers, and other parts of plants. They can be both beautifully and powerfully fragrant. In addition to giving plants their distinctive smells, essential oils protect plants and play a role in plant pollination. In addition to their intrinsic benefits to plants and being beautifully fragrant to people, essential oils have long been used for food preparation, beauty treatment, and health care practices

Essential oils have been used throughout recorded history for a wide variety of wellness applications. The Egyptians were some of the first people to use aromatic essential oils extensively in medical practice, beauty treatment, food preparation, and in religious ceremony. Frankincense, sandalwood, myrrh and cinnamon were considered very valuable cargo along caravan trade routes and were sometimes exchanged for gold.

Borrowing from the Egyptians, the Greeks used essential oils in their practices of therapeutic massage and aromatherapy. The Romans also used aromatic oils to promote health and personal hygiene. Influenced by the Greeks and Romans, as well as Chinese and Indian Ayurvedic use of aromatic herbs, the Persians began to refine distillation methods for extracting essential oils from aromatic plants. Essential oil extracts were used throughout the dark ages in Europe for their anti-bacterial and fragrant properties.

In modern times, the powerful healing properties of essential oils were rediscovered in 1937 by a French chemist, Rene-Maurice Gattefosse, who healed a badly burnt hand with pure lavender oil. A French contemporary, Dr. Jean Valnet, used therapeutic-grade essential oils to successfully treat injured soldiers during World War II. Dr. Valnet went on to become a world leader in the development of aromatherapy practices. The modern use of essential oils has continued to grow rapidly as health scientists and medical practitioners continue to research and validate the numerous health and wellness benefits of therapeutic-grade essential oil.

Essential oils are used for a very wide range of emotional and physical wellness applications. They can be used a single oil at a time or in complex blends depending on user experience and desired benefit. Essential oils are usually administered by one of three methods: diffused aromatically, applied topically, or taken internally as dietary supplements.

Aromatic Uses

Our sense of smell influences many physiological pathways including the stimulation of hormones and other metabolic processes. Aromatherapy is founded on the body's predictable response to specific olfactory stimuli. Essential oils are widely used in aromatherapy applications. Certain essential oils, when diffused in the air, can be very stimulating while others can be calming and soothing. Beyond emotional benefits, diffusing essential oils can purify air of unwanted odors and some airborne pathogens. Low or no-heat essential oil diffusers are recommended as they do not change the chemical structure of the oil being diffused. Essential oils can also be used as cleansing and purifying additives to laundry and surface cleaners throughout the home.

Topical Uses

Due to their natural molecular composition, essential oils are easily absorbed by the skin and can be safely applied topically. Application of essential oils can have immediate, localized benefit to the target area of application. They have restorative and calming properties and can be used effectively with massage and beauty therapy. They are also natural disinfectants. The chemical structure of essential oils also allows them to be absorbed into the bloodstream via the skin for internal benefit throughout the body.

Internal Uses

Essential oils can also be used as dietary supplements supporting a variety of healthy conditions. Some essential oils have powerful antioxidant properties while others help support healthy inflammatory response in cells. Many essential oils are generally regarded as being safe for dietary use, but some oils should not be taken internally. Do not use any essential oil product internally that does not have the appropriate dietary supplement facts on its label.

Using essential oils can be both profoundly simple and life changing at the same time. Working with someone who has used essential oils before will help first-time users have a more beneficial and enjoyable experience. A large amount of information is readily available for those desiring to increase their knowledge of essential oil applications.

(Be sure to use only pure therapeutic-grade essential oils and follow all label warnings and instructions. Essential oils should not be used in the eyes, inside the ear canal, or in open wounds. If redness or irritation occurs when using essential oils topically, simply apply any vegetable oils such as fractionated coconut oil or olive oil to the affected area. Consult your physician before using essential oils if you are pregnant or under a doctor's care.)

Do You DoTERRA?

I'm sure you have heard of DoTERRA Essential Oils by now as I have from all over the various social media accounts I have.  Many of my friends represent the product or use it and love it.  Curiosity got the best of me so I had to give it a try.  I purchased the Physician Kit's and received a Slim & Sassy with it to help with weight loss.  I'm starting my exploration phase with all of them and can't wait to see how great they really are.  

I am sharing the link to my "store" and am seeking any feedback others might have.  I've read some use it for seizures and others find great relief with them so I figure the more knowledge I can grab up, the better!

Want to learn more, click here for doTERRA.

About Essential Oils:

f you have ever enjoyed the scent of a rose, you’ve experienced the aromatic qualities of essential oils. These naturally occurring, volatile aromatic compounds are found in the seeds, bark, stems, roots, flowers, and other parts of plants. They can be both beautifully and powerfully fragrant. In addition to giving plants their distinctive smells, essential oils protect plants and play a role in plant pollination. In addition to their intrinsic benefits to plants and being beautifully fragrant to people, essential oils have long been used for food preparation, beauty treatment, and health care practices

Essential oils have been used throughout recorded history for a wide variety of wellness applications. The Egyptians were some of the first people to use aromatic essential oils extensively in medical practice, beauty treatment, food preparation, and in religious ceremony. Frankincense, sandalwood, myrrh and cinnamon were considered very valuable cargo along caravan trade routes and were sometimes exchanged for gold.

Borrowing from the Egyptians, the Greeks used essential oils in their practices of therapeutic massage and aromatherapy. The Romans also used aromatic oils to promote health and personal hygiene. Influenced by the Greeks and Romans, as well as Chinese and Indian Ayurvedic use of aromatic herbs, the Persians began to refine distillation methods for extracting essential oils from aromatic plants. Essential oil extracts were used throughout the dark ages in Europe for their anti-bacterial and fragrant properties.

In modern times, the powerful healing properties of essential oils were rediscovered in 1937 by a French chemist, Rene-Maurice Gattefosse, who healed a badly burnt hand with pure lavender oil. A French contemporary, Dr. Jean Valnet, used therapeutic-grade essential oils to successfully treat injured soldiers during World War II. Dr. Valnet went on to become a world leader in the development of aromatherapy practices. The modern use of essential oils has continued to grow rapidly as health scientists and medical practitioners continue to research and validate the numerous health and wellness benefits of therapeutic-grade essential oil.

Essential oils are used for a very wide range of emotional and physical wellness applications. They can be used a single oil at a time or in complex blends depending on user experience and desired benefit. Essential oils are usually administered by one of three methods: diffused aromatically, applied topically, or taken internally as dietary supplements.

Aromatic Uses

Our sense of smell influences many physiological pathways including the stimulation of hormones and other metabolic processes. Aromatherapy is founded on the body's predictable response to specific olfactory stimuli. Essential oils are widely used in aromatherapy applications. Certain essential oils, when diffused in the air, can be very stimulating while others can be calming and soothing. Beyond emotional benefits, diffusing essential oils can purify air of unwanted odors and some airborne pathogens. Low or no-heat essential oil diffusers are recommended as they do not change the chemical structure of the oil being diffused. Essential oils can also be used as cleansing and purifying additives to laundry and surface cleaners throughout the home.

Topical Uses

Due to their natural molecular composition, essential oils are easily absorbed by the skin and can be safely applied topically. Application of essential oils can have immediate, localized benefit to the target area of application. They have restorative and calming properties and can be used effectively with massage and beauty therapy. They are also natural disinfectants. The chemical structure of essential oils also allows them to be absorbed into the bloodstream via the skin for internal benefit throughout the body.

Internal Uses

Essential oils can also be used as dietary supplements supporting a variety of healthy conditions. Some essential oils have powerful antioxidant properties while others help support healthy inflammatory response in cells. Many essential oils are generally regarded as being safe for dietary use, but some oils should not be taken internally. Do not use any essential oil product internally that does not have the appropriate dietary supplement facts on its label.

Using essential oils can be both profoundly simple and life changing at the same time. Working with someone who has used essential oils before will help first-time users have a more beneficial and enjoyable experience. A large amount of information is readily available for those desiring to increase their knowledge of essential oil applications.

(Be sure to use only pure therapeutic-grade essential oils and follow all label warnings and instructions. Essential oils should not be used in the eyes, inside the ear canal, or in open wounds. If redness or irritation occurs when using essential oils topically, simply apply any vegetable oils such as fractionated coconut oil or olive oil to the affected area. Consult your physician before using essential oils if you are pregnant or under a doctor's care.)

Buy Assassin's Creed Unity for only $29.99 Ubisoft Deal Of The Day

Buy Assassin's Creed Unity for only $29.99 Ubisoft Deal Of The Day!

Capture the Best with the Latest Cameras and Camcorders at the Ultimate Destination: Best Buy

The reviewer has been compensated in the form of a Best Buy Gift Card and/or received the product/service at a reduced price or for free.

It's the most wonderful time of the year, right?  Of course it is as it's so much fun shopping for others and capturing all those great memories to share throughout the years.  I've been spending a lot of time on my ancestry so the thought of videos and pictures are even more important to me so I can pass down the legacies.  I remember my ex-in-laws lugging out their big camcorder and taking some very shaky footage but the end result were memories.   Nothing beats sharing old videos at upcoming family reunions or just spending time to rehash the time gone by.  Best Buy is the ultimate destination for all things electronic in my opinion.  It's the first place I turn to when I think of purchasing the latest cameras and camcorders which I must say, it's time I purchase a camcorder whether it's by Sony, Nikon or Samsung.

Did you know that all three have built in Wi-Fi?  That is so cool for the techies out there like myself.  As you sit around after capturing all those great memories, gone are the days when you had to wait to go home to download and share.  With the convenience of Wi-Fi, it's extremely easy to share where you are provided they have a Wi-Fi connection.  If you are confused over the many brands, here is some help:

Nikon D5300 DSLR w/18-55mm VR Lens

• A DSLR with built-in Wi-Fi so you can capture high quality photos and share them instantly among your family and friends.
• This Nikon D5300 DSLR camera is equipped with an AF-S DX NIKKOR 18-55mm f/3.5-5.6G VR II lens that enables you to capture sharp photos and video footage.  Optical image stabilization helps prevent blurring to ensure image clarity which is a huge plus as I seem to be challenged at times to capture sharp photos.
• Also available in red or gray

To read more about the specs, just click the link for the Nikon D5300 DSLR w/18-55mm VR Lens.

Sony Alpha A6000 Mirrorless Interchangeable Lens Camera

• A compact system camera with the World’s Fastest Autofocus
• This Sony Alpha A6000 features a 24.3-megapixel, Exmor APS-C CMOS sensor that makes it easy to shoot scenes in stunning clarity. 
• Built-in Wi-Fi lets you share stored content across devices.
• Also available in White or silver

To read more about the specs, just click the link for the Sony Alpha A6000 Mirrorless Interchangeable Lens Camera.

Samsung Galaxy Camera 2

• A digital camera that allows you to shoot, share, and use Android Apps
• This Samsung Galaxy 2 digital camera's 16.3-megapixel, 1/2.3" BSI CMOS sensor allows you to capture sharp images and high-definition video footage. 
• The 4.8" touch screen simplifies operation and has many cool apps.
• Built-in Wi-Fi makes sharing stored files easy

To read more about the specs, just click the link for the Samsung Galaxy Camera 2.

Three great choices this holiday season for the ultimate gift if you are in the market for a camcorder!  Even if you hadn't thought about it, it might be the perfect time to upgrade and be your own Santa!

Check out the Best Buy Holiday Gift Center for more great cameras!

@BestBuy #CamerasatBestBuy #HintingSeason

Gift a Canon from Best Buy and Become that Person's Favorite

The reviewer has been compensated in the form of a Best Buy Gift Card and/or received the product/service at a reduced price or for free.

This Christmas as you ponder what to buy that special someone or even yourself because don't you deserve a really great present?  Consider the Canon EOS Rebel T5i because it's from a line of amazing cameras.  I have a Canon EOS Rebel and love it!  It takes the most beautiful pictures both inside and outside unlike many cameras that seem to only take great outdoor pictures.  Canon truly is my ultimate destination for the latest cameras and accessories to capture my holiday memories through the years.  My Canon EOS Rebel the best purchase I ever made when it comes to high tech cameras.  My dad still raves about what an amazing camera it is.

The new Canon Rebel is one of the best selling DSLRs and makes taking professional photographs easy yet fun providing stellar image quality and enhancements making you the 'professional photographer.'  Other feasures of the Canon EOS Rebel T5i include:

• Hollywood caliber full HD video capability because you want to capture those movies to remember them how you saw them.
• Continuous autofocus while taking HD video which is really a nice feature so you don't have to worry anymore about movements and being out of focus while recording.
• Featureing an 18.0-megapixel CMOS sensor and a DIGIC 5 image processor to ensure vivid, crystal-clear images as nothing is worse than finding out your pictures are not up to par when it's too late.
• The 3" vari-angle touch screen simplifies navigation which is a bonus for those of us that like to see what we are doing!

If you are like me, you look for the perfect present and this really is as it's one that will give and give!  I have well over 10,000 images on three portable drives and the memories I will be able to hand down to my children and grandchildren.  


Save $150 on the Canon EOS Rebel T5i at Best Buy* but hurry and visit Best Buy to learn more. *offer valid 12/7-12/20!!

Look at how amazing the photos are from my Canon EOS Rebel.  The first one was from last year and I replicated the pose this year.  The colors are vibrant and beautiful and that's why I love my Canon!

There is still time so go now and make someone have the best Christmas ever!



@BestBuy #CanonatBestBuy #HintingSeason @CanonUSAimaging

Interview with a Seven Year Old Asthma & Epilepsy Advocate & Chance to Win $10 iTunes Gift Card

My So Called Homeschool Life is running a $10 iTunes gift card giveaway while showcasing a little dynamo asthma and epilepsy advocate as well as my daughter.  Take a peek and read about how this little seven year old got started in wanting to serve and maybe even win a stocking stuffer!

Thank you for interviewing and raising awareness for asthma!

Discover the LG OLED TV this Holiday Season from Best Buy

The reviewer has been compensated in the form of a Best Buy Gift Card and/or received the product/service at a reduced price or for free.

Since I've moved, I have loved the whole concept of a technology driven theater room with the basement we have.  I'm ready for the whole nine yards of an amazing entertainment experience.  With the holiday season starting, I've started my Christmas 2014 wish list on Pinterest and Best Buy is right there with the entertainment options for everyone in my family from movies to games to even a brand new TV as we need one!  I've been researching the best one to purchase and so far the LG OLED TV is catching my eye for many reasons to include:

• Infinite contrast ratio and stunning color that will deliver the ultimate picture quality with a a greater sense of realism and depth to include enhanced color range and accuracy.  
• LG's exclusive 4 Color Pixel technology delivers bright, vibrant colors that makes you think you are at the theater.
• The curved screen really provides a look of "wow" to any surroundings!
• The super thin design, 0.21" thick at it's thinnest point, is perfect for not taking up a lot of space and is lighter weight than our ancient 50".
• Another great feature is the intuitive webOS™Smart TV interface that will allow us to find content quicker without long delays.  The one touch app button is brilliant as I can't even find the features on our other "smart TV" which is beyond frustrating!
• $500 savings (no coupon required) of Best Buy’s everyday price of $3499.99.

Whatever is on your list, check out and discover LG OLED TV – The Ultimate Display now by visiting Best Buy in person or online.  I was sold as soon as I went to the website and saw the set up!  For all the techie wizards, this is a must have and of course, the kids will love it!

@BestBuy #HintingSeason #OLEDatBestBuy #Sponsored

e-Cookbook from Fleischmann’s® Yeast, Karo® Syrup and Simply Homemade®

Looking for a great online recipe pictures with equally amazing pictures?  Check out this e-cookbook from Fleischmann’s® Yeast, Karo® Syrup and Simply Homemade®! It features delicious fall recipes from bloggers Blahnik Baker, Julie's Eat and Treats, Eats Well with Others, Chelsea's Messy Apron and Foxes Love Lemons.

I see so many mouth watering recipes and it's perfect timing for Thanksgiving so I will have to try out a few with all the guests I have coming to my house. Do you have favorite recipes for Thanksgiving?  Please share below if you do!

Our theme this year will be a Jane Austen one mostly because my littlest is really interested in Jane Austen and I even have a friend making her a regency dress.  I will be having my girls help me make the salted caramel apple cinnamon rolls and the spiced potato rolls this year!

 #OMGyum 

Check out the recipe book here.

Goodbye Winter. Hello Spring! The Lunar New Year 2015

The reviewer has been compensated in the form of a Best Buy Gift Card and/or received the product/service at a reduced price or for free.

The new year is rapidly approaching and with that comes lots of excitement for a new year to many, means new chances at new things and changes.  The new year is no exception across cultures and some of the most fun events for the new year come from the Chinese.  The upcoming Lunar New Year is a big celebration for Asians around the world to include the Asian-Americans in our own country.  The Lunar New Year celebrates the end of winter and the arrival of spring and is actually one of the more important celebrations among Asians.  The Lunar New Year is based on the phases of the moon and will fall on February 19, 2015 according to the Gregorian calendar.  Many think it's tied to January 1st but it is not!  As part of their continued support to the many different cultures their workers and customers represent, Best Buy is releasing an Asian inspired gift card and e-gift card for purchase through February 22, 2015.

The Asian inspired gift cards look really nice and would look wonderful under your Christmas tree or even as a birthday gift.  There are a variety of denominations to choose for as well.  Year's ago, I had a Chinese themed party for my oldest which was a huge hint.  The decor and celebrations from the Chinese are extraordinary to me.  I love the rich reds, yellow and golds.  My favorite restaurant is a Chinese restaurant as the food is superb but the decor is simply beautiful.  I love the look of these new Best Buy cards!

Click on the link for a Best Buy Lunar Year Gift Card or to purchase a Best Buy Lunar Year e-Gift Card, scroll over to "occasions."