JoeShopping Blog

Feel the Sting – Burt’s Bees

Posted on March 30, 2012 by Megan

With spring already here and summer quick to follow, I wanted to share one of my favorite brands with y’all today…Burt’s Bees. They make so many amazing products, from chapstick to lotion to hair products. I have tried almost everything that they make and I have never been left disappointed.

Burt’s Bees is a company that makes personal care products with beeswax and other natural ingredients. They strive to keep all of their products as natural as possible and are working to make every single product 100% natural. They even put a tag on each product on their website to report how “natural” it is. They also do not test their products on animals, which is something that I am so thankful for. You might be thinking that they must be pretty expensive products, but they are actually really affordable.

Today I’m going to share some of my favorite Burt’s Bees products. Read on and let me know if y’all have ever tried any of these and what y’all think of them.

Chemical Free Sunscreen SPF 30 - $15.00

This sunscreen is 100% natural and has a high dose of sun protection. This is perfect for everyday use because it is all natural and has a clean smell. It won’t leave you feeling sticky or greasy, which is always a plus in my book! I just love that it doesn’t have that “typical” sunscreen smell.

Use Drugstore.com coupons to help knock that price down.

Cranberry & Pomegranate Body Butter - $13.00

Oh how I love this moisturizer. I just cannot say enough good things about it. First, let’s start with the smell. Pomegranate is one of my favorite scents and this body butter smells like a little piece of Heaven in my book. It leaves my skin feeling soft and smooth like silk. Even my husband noticed how soft my hands were after I used it! That’s saying a lot.

Beeswax Lip Balm - $3.00

If there is one thing that that I have to have on me at all times, it is chapstick. Now don’t get me wrong, there are other things that I want to have on me, like my cell phone and some money, but chapstick is the one thing that I really need all throughout the day. This is BY FAR my favorite lip balm ever. I am pretty obsessed with it and I get really upset if I have to use another brand. It leaves my lips SO soft. I have a tube in my makeup bag, my purse, my locker at work and my car. Like I said, it is a must have for me! You can get it at Wal-Mart.

Lemon & Vitamin E Bath and Body Oil - $8.00

I use this when I am almost done showering. You just need a small quarter-sized amount. I rinse off quickly and then towel dry and the results are amazing. My skin is so silky and soft. It has a lemon/clean scent, but I don’t notice it once I dry off. I just feel soft and clean. This has been a major help for me because I tend to have really dry skin, especially in the winter. I haven’t had any dry spots or any itching… and I know that it is thanks to this awesome product.

Lip Shimmer - $5.00

This is definitely my favorite product from Burt’s Bees. Like I said above, I love their lip balm, but I like to have a little bit of color on my lips. This does it. There are over 10 colors and each one has a little bit of shimmer in it. I was worried that it wouldn’t actually put any color on my lips, but it really does. The darker colors actually make it look like I have on lipstick! I like the pinker tinted ones… they leave my lips looking fresh and glowing, which is perfect for this pretty weather. It is definitely worth the $5.00 price tag!

So those are a few of my favorite Burt’s Bees products, but the list could go on and on. They have facial cleansers and shampoo/conditioner, which I love. I just am impressed with the quality of all of their products. They make me feel so fresh and clean, and I love that I know that their products are made with natural ingredients.

Have y’all ever tried any of their products? Were y’all impressed?

Today’s JoeShopping post was written by Featured Blogger MackeyMadness. Megan is a full-time registered nurse and part-time blogger who enjoys spending time with her husband and their three (large) puppies. She also enjoys reading, crafting, spending time with God and shopping for great deals. Visit Megan at her blog Mackey Madness and find her on Twitter at @Mackeymadness.

Save it for a Rainy Day – Films for the Spring Time

Posted on March 28, 2012 by Sierra

My boyfriend likes it when I watch films “with substance.” I agree, but being the happy go lucky person that I am, I also like to watch movies that make me feel good and leave me feeling joyful and thankful. There are some great movies that are good to watch during the rainy spring days when it’s cold outside and you don’t feel like pulling out your rain boots. Plus you can snuggle with your pup or invite them to watch a movie with you (just saying).

So what kind of films do you like? Do you like movies that make you laugh or make you cry? Or maybe a little bit of both will do it for you. I like a little bit of everything. From chick flicks to drama films, it really depends on my mood. I used to not be able to handle the more intense films, like Changeling, for example, but now I’m better. Even though, I have to admit that Changeling, as good as the film is, still gives me the shivers. I don’t think I could watch that film again.

But anyway, here are some films that I think you should definitely put on your rainy day movie list. Then when the rain storm hits you’ll all be set with a movie, popcorn, your fuzzy fur baby, and warm blankets to keep you cozy.

One of my favorite films with Zac Effron (come on you know he’s cute!) is Charlie St. Cloud. After reading the book I watched the movie in the theater with my mom a few years back and I loved the screen adaptation. If you’re in the mood for an ocean dreams film that has gorgeous sites of the sea, sail boats, and a little bit of spiritual ghostly elements, this film is for you. Plus – it has a great love story and it’s all about letting go. It also has amazing twists and turns – you’ll never guess what comes at the end!

If you’re not afraid of dark twisty characters with a mysterious past you might want to watch The Girl with the Dragon Tattoo. At first I was hesitant about seeing this film, but after going to the theater to watch this movie as well – it won me over. Not only does it have incredible acting, but it’s intense, keeps you on your toes, and reveals the secrets behind a family disappearance. This film is definitely not suitable for children, but if you have a cozy night in with your significant other I can guarantee you’ll be wanting the sequel to be here ASAP as much I do.

Water for Elephants is another great movie based off of a book and yes, I read this book as well. I thought the film was a great adaptation and who doesn’t love heartthrob Robert Pattinson? Well, believe it or not I never really liked this actor until I watched this film. I felt he breathed life into his character quite beautifully and his chemnistry with Reese Witherspoon is quite dynamic. During a circus adventures with a sweet elephant named Rosy you’ll find yourself falling in love with all of the characters, well, minus the bi-polar circus owner.

Another film I was hesitant watching was The King’s Speech, but thanks to my boyfriend we watched this while traveling one evening and I couldn’t help but be sucked into the king’s journey of overcoming his fear of speaking in public. With a great ensemble cast and true-to-life events, this movie is great at making you realize that anyone can overcome their fears with a little bit of realization and self confidence.

So are there any movies that I’m missing that I should have mentioned? Of course, there are several great films that will soon be released and I’m dying to see The Hunger Games. I love watching movies in general, and when it’s cold and rainy in April I think this is the best time to hunker down, get out your favorite films, and have a movie session.

This Week’s Grocery Coupons – 3/26/12

Posted on March 26, 2012 by JoeShopping

Spring into Printable Coupons this week with coupons offering up to $4 off of your purchase. Save on products from NESCAFÉ, Revlon, South Beach, Reynolds, and more. Send these coupons to your printer or straight to your store loyalty card!

Here’s a look at some of the best new coupons this week has to offer!

PRINT & SAVE ON THESE PRODUCTS NOW!

$1 off South Beach Diet Meal Bars $4 off two NESCAFE Coffee Capsules

$2 off Revlon PhotoReady face products $1.50 off Maybelline Eye Studio products

$1.00 off any Aleve product $3 off any Zantac brand product

$1.00 off Glade PlugIns Twin Refills $1.50 off Reynolds Wrap Foil

$2 off April’s In Style Magazine $2 off April’s People Magazine

WHAT COUPONS ARE YOU SEARCHING FOR?

TELL US IN THE COMMENTS BELOW AND

MAYBE WE CAN HELP YOU FIND THEM!

Dog Days – Top Picks for Your Pup

Posted on March 23, 2012 by JoeShopping

Everyone has heard that familiar quote: “a dog is man’s best friend.” I firmly believe that this is true. Pets of all kinds are so special, but there is just something about dogs that really makes that bond between animal and human run deep. Maybe it’s that sweet face or that endlessly wagging tail; maybe it’s the fierce loyalty or the constant companionship. Whatever it is that bonds a man/woman and a dog, it’s a strong bond that lasts forever.

We have three dogs in our house: a lab, a pitbull and a golden retriever. Sometimes it can be quite a handful to have three BIG dogs, but we wouldn’t trade them for anything, even if it meant having a cleaner house! I can count on them to be waiting with wagging tails every single time I come home. They give their best to us, so in turn we want to give the best to them.

Our pups: Cashmere, Radar and Diesel

Below are a few of our favorite dog products, tested and approved by our beloved babies.

Dingo Rawhide Chews - $5.58

These chews are our favorite go-to treats. They have real meat in the center and are then wrapped in rawhide. They come in various sizes, so they are perfect for any size dog. We (obviously) have to get the large ones. They also come in beef flavor or chicken flavor. Not only are these great for their teeth as they chew, they also give us a few moments of quiet.

Kong Toys - $10.39

We have probably tried over a hundred toys for our dogs, but most don’t even make it through one night. Diesel, our pitbull, is a big chewer and can tear most toys to pieces in a few minutes. I had heard that Kong toys were long lasting, so I finally gave in and purchased one. Boy, am I glad that I did! They are definitely worth the pricier tag because they actually last. We have several that have lasted months… and are still around to boast (like this one). If you have a dog that is a chewer, try these. They have several sizes and even ones that you can stuff with treats to keep them entertained for awhile.

Isle of Dogs Shampoo - $11.99

I used to think that dog shampoo wasn’t really important and I would just use whatever I had at home or buy whatever was cheapest at the store. I was given an Isle of Dogs shampoo by a friend once and I haven’t stopped using it since. Not only does it clean thoroughly, it smells wonderful and leaves their coats moisturized and silky smooth. The dogs still don’t really enjoy their baths, but we sure do.

Rubber Brush - $3.45

We have a rubber brush that is made to get rid of the dead, loose dog hair without actually pulling or hurting. Brushing our pups is absolutely mandatory for us. Our lab and golden retriever both shed so much that we could probably make clothing out of their hair. Not that we would, but y’all get what I’m saying. We try to brush them a few times a week and I’m always amazed at how much hair comes off of them. The more hair on the brush, the less hair on my floor… and that makes me happy. I’ve been wanting to try the FURminator. Have any of y’all ever tried it? It’s a little pricey, but apparently amazing.

Tip: Be sure to check out the Petco Coupons page if you purchase any of the above!

Are there any pet products that y’all love? Share with us in the comments below!

12 Stores We’d Like to See Compete in The Hunger Games

Posted on March 21, 2012 by JoeShopping

This weekend sees the mega-anticipated release of The Hunger Games in theaters. Based on the popular book series by Suzanne Collins, Hunger Games tells the story of young Katniss Everdeen, as she fights for her life in a post-apocalyptic future where children compete annually in a televised death match. Yeah, fun for the whole family!

Each year, one boy and one girl between the ages of 12-18 are chosen by lottery from each of the 12 Districts to represent their home as a Tribute. The Games themselves are a brutal mix of death traps and armed enemies.

We won’t give away any spoilers from the series (go read the books already, they’re fantastic!), but it got us thinking. What if the Hunger Games existed today and what if instead of kids competing, they had stores competing for survival? Here’s who we’d like to see represent the 12 (Shopping) Districts.

District 1: Target

Who doesn’t love the all-around, family friendly store? They’d quickly make friends with a number of other tributes to improve their chances of survival. Unfortunately, they have one monumental downside that’d end their chances in a heartbeat: that giant bullseye on their chest.

District 2: Lowe’s

Sure, the home improvement store can consider itself handy with weapons (axes, chainsaws, sledgehammers), but its skills will really come in handy for building shelter! Starting off with a simple treehouse, things would go well until Lowe’s gets carried away and builds a 28-room mansion deep in the heart of the woods, quickly forgetting about this little life-and-death competition.

District 3: e.l.f. Cosmetics

These guys have a lot going for them. Super cheap prices means they’re used to surviving on little funds, so they’d last awhile out in the Games. Not to mention the fact that everyone knows elves are masters at hunting and sneaking around. Unfortunately, they’d eventually get caught fixing their eye shadow one too many times and take an early exit.

District 4: Modell’s

Nobody knows sporting goods like Mos. From the second they’re reaped into the Games, this fit and active store would be on the move, avoiding near death at every turn. They’d make it almost to the bitter end…that is until the New York Yankees win another World Series, forcing the store to divert all its attention to a slew of new Championship gear.

District 5: Hot Topic

The “young punks” of the Hunger Games, Hot Topic would clearly be the hippest Tribute competing, winning tons of accolades (and helpful gifts) from the younger viewing crowd. They’d ultimately fall, however, when they get completely distracted by a whose-piercing-was-more-painful contest.

District 6: Lego Shop

With an army of minifigs at their disposal, there’s almost nothing the District 6 Tribute can’t handle! Except the fact that it’s pretty easy to knock down Lego towers. Certainly the most fun store of the bunch, but sadly, Hunger Games are not won on fun alone.

District 7: Petco

They’re clearly used to dealing with animals over at Petco, so living like one out in the wild would be second nature to these guys. There’d be plenty of “awwwwwws” over all the cute fuzzy critters, but when it came down to snuffing out another Tribute, these guys would have way too much heart.

District 8: Eastern Mountain Sports

Survival. At its core, that’s what the Hunger Games is all about. It’s also what EMS thrives on! Wherever the Hunger Games takes them, EMS will be ready. Climbing, hiking, kayaking, even skiing. They’d actually make it to the very end if it weren’t sadly for all those bright orange colors they’re always wearing.

District 9: The Walking Company

It’s easy to run when your life’s on the line. It’s even easier to run when you’ve got the right footwear, and that’s where the Walking Company would really shine. After a few days of rugged survival, most Tributes would start whining about the blisters on their feet. Not these guys! Their only downfall is that they’d be slowed down by the three or four dozen pairs of shoes they’d insist on carrying because, “You never know what occasion you’ll need them for!”

District 10: Kodak Gallery

Even the Civl War had its photographers, so why should the Hunger Games be any different? Taking hundreds of Gigs worth of digital pics from the other Tributes and creating beautiful photo books would certainly help ease the pain. But even the best photographers out there eventually overstay their welcome and sadly, Kodak Gallery would never get the opportunity to finish its own self portrait.

District 11: 1-800-Flowers

From joyous celebrations to depressing situations, 1-800-Flowers is used to riding an emotional rollercoaster. They’d easily earn some friendship from the other Tributes, only to quickly see themselves out of the race after stopping to smell one too many roses.

District 12: Best Buy

Everyone would totally be laughing at Best Buy, sitting there on the couch playing video games and watching boxed sets of “The Office” over and over again. But while the other Tributes were busy fighting off one another, Best Buy’d be watching the Blu-ray version of the “Hunger Games,” discovering exactly how it ends. And more importantly, how to win. Well played, Best Buy. Well played.

MAY THE ODDS PRICES BE EVER IN YOUR FAVOR.

Image Credit: Fandango.com

Getting Fit: Workout Clothes for a Fit Fashionista

Posted on March 20, 2012 by Sierra

Lately I’ve been thinking of more ways that I can be active. Since it is just starting to warm up it’s time to get inventive and think of great ways to work out and get your heart rate up during the spring time. There’s a few outdoor activities that I adore and in particular I love hiking. When I’m not able to hike though, I love going on walks with my boyfriend and mom.

Now what does being active have to do with JoeShopping.com? Well, part of being active is looking good while you’re working out, in my opinion. That’s why I think it’s quite all right to spend some money on workout gear when you plan on getting in shape.

There’s nothing wrong with some nice motivation while you’re at the gym or walking outside, right? So instead of rewarding yourself with candy, why not buy some nice looking gym pants, tops, shoes, and accessories?

NIKE Women’s Free Run Running Shoes - $100

I recently got a nice pair of running shoes from NIKE and they are so comfy. I also love that they will go with a pair of jeans and are great to wear at the airport. I’m not one to wear heels when I’m at the airport so instead I love investing in a great pair of tennis shoes or running shoes that are comfy. Plus, I know they won’t give me blisters when I’m having to walk a long ways to my departure gate.

This pair of NIKE running shoes in particular comes in a lot of fun colors such as blue, purple, black, and coral.

NIKE Pro Sport’s Bra - $30

Another great essential to working out is a great sports bra. One that has support and breathable fabric is very important. There’s nothing worse then going on a vigorous walk while wearing a sports bra that doesn’t fit you properly or that is too small or too tight. So make sure you know your size and what kind of sports bra fits you well.

NIKE brand offers great clothing that’s made for working out and they have great sports bras to consider.

Women HyBreez Active Running Yoga Long Pants - $35

I love wearing a pair of yoga pants that are comfy and soft during a nice long walk. HyBreez offers yoga pants made out of polyester and spandex that are incredibly soft. Just like NIKE, HyBreez also has pants that do not cause skin irritations and they also allow for extra ventilation by coming with flared out bottoms. Yoga pants are my favorite types of pants to work out in – they’re super comfy and feel great throughout the entire workout session.

Gaiam Tree of Life Aluminum Water Bottle - $7

One of my favorite water bottles is an aluminum water bottle. It’s super easy to clean and carries just the right amount of water! Plus most come with a piece to attach your keys which comes in handy. Gaiam in particular has some pretty nifty designs out. I’ve seen a bird and birdcage before or this green tree bottle, which is pretty cool too.

It’s pretty amazing too that aluminum material does not contribute to the unhealthy amount of eco-polluting waste plastic, which makes it an eco-friendly alternative to plastic.

adidas Women’s Response Short – Sleeved Workout Top - $28

adidas is another great brand name for workout clothing. They have wonderful workout tops that are perspiration-wicking and provide great ventilation. Pair these with your yoga pants and you’ll be all set to go for a hike, gym workout, or however you choose to get your heart racing for some great exercise.

So what is your brand of choice? Or maybe you just like workout clothes that feel right, like I do. Sometimes it is not all about the brand name – sometimes it’s just about finding clothing that’s soft and durable. If you find clothing and accessories that work just right – your workout will be worthwhile.

The 40 Online Stores You Need to Follow on Twitter

Posted on March 19, 2012 by JoeShopping

We love Twitter. And we love online shopping, in case you didn’t notice. When the two meet, we’re just beside ourselves. While plenty of online stores have a Twitter account where they post deals or handle customer service, some stores go way above and beyond, offering some amazingly awesome content or being incredibly interactive with its followers. Those guys are the true cherries on our ice cream sundae.

So which stores are the most social on Twitter? That’s what we wanted to find out. We spent waaaay too many hours on the site (shh… don’t tell our boss), and came up with a list of the 40 best online stores with Twitter accounts. Here for you are the top merchants we think you should be following (Oh, and be sure to tell them @JoeShopping sent ya!):

1-800-PetMeds (@1800PetMeds)
What do pet lovers enjoy doing most? Yeah, sharing stories and photos about their pets. That’s just what you’ll find on 1-800-PetMeds’ Twitter stream. A great mix of contests, coupons, pet tips and news, along with plenty of shared photos for a fun interactive environment.

6pm.com (@6pm)
Sure the folks at 6pm.com will occasionally mention sales, new products and handle customer service issues, but the bulk of their day is spent chatting with their followers about recent purchases or asking clothing or shoe-related opinion questions. They’re definitely putting the “social” in “social shopping.”

Abt Electronics (@abtelectronics)
From iPads to Blu-ray players, the Abt gang shares a love of electronics with their Twitter followers as they chat about the latest innovations in technology. You’ll also regularly find deals spotlighted and plenty of gift card giveaways.

Ace (@AceHardware)
Ace is the place… the place for some seriously nice and friendly tweets. Get a heads-up on store sales and coupons, all sorts of repair tips, and even a huge congrats if you suddenly become mayor of your local Ace courtesy of FourSquare.

Ann Taylor (@anntaylor)
Like its sister site @LOFT, the Ann Taylor Twitter feed is chock full of compliments and positive feedback for all the outfits its followers share. They clearly take the time to listen to their fans, and mix things up with fashion questions, giveaways, coupons and more.

Anthropologie (@Anthropologie)
Anthropologie sells some truly unique women’s clothing and home decor. So it’s no surprise that tons of the store’s customers love sharing their recent purchases on Twitter. Look for plenty of comments, retweets and photos.

Archie McPhee (@archiemcphee)
For a store that sells true oddities like Emergency Googly Eyes and Inflatable Beards, you’d expect an equally entertaining and wacky Twitter stream of awesome. And you’d be 100% correct! Highly interactive, expect plenty of goofy photos, videos and links.

Athleta (@athleta)
Running. Stretching. Working out. Moving. That’s what Athleta’s all about, and that’s just what they preach to the Twitterverse. Look for announcements of new store openings and sales, inspirational posts, and plenty of warm fuzzies to go around!

Bath & Body Works (@LUVBBW)
From general questions to popular fragrances, the team behind BBW’s Twitter account loves talking fragrances with their fans. They do a bang-up job interacting, be it sharing new purchases, commenting back or handling customer service complaints. It’s not just their products that are so sweet…

Blockbuster (@blockbuster)
Like movies? Then you’re in good company. The movie rental store chats regularly with its followers about the latest big screen hits (and flops), celebrity birthdays, TV shows, newest DVD releases and more.

Bluefly (@bluefly)
It’s ALL about fashion for Bluefly. Style and trend updates, the latest designer sales, and a slew of comments on followers’ outfits are all pretty much the norm.

BuyCostumes (@BuyCostumes)
We love the gang at BuyCostumes! You’ll get the lowdown on the hottest costumes and current coupons and deals, plus a bevvy of opinion polls and funtastic photos. They really do a top-notch job of mixing pop-culture with “this day in history.”

Charlotte Russe (@CharlotteRusse)
The Charlotte Russe Twitter Stream is a virtual fashion show runway. They’re constantly sharing fashionable photos of celebs and fans strutting around in their latest designer fashions. You’ll also learn about the latest sales, join in on fashion polls and get a chance to snag some gift cards in regular giveaways.

Crate & Barrel (@CrateandBarrel)
“Home Tweet Home.” That’s what Crate and Barrel’s Twitter bio says and they certainly live up to it. The home furnishings store tweets with its followers and they do it quite often, whether it’s commenting on a follower’s photo or purchase, or asking for feedback.

DSW Shoe Warehouse (@DSWShoeLovers)
DSW loves shoes. Just check their Twitter stream and you’ll see them regularly sharing reviews and tips with their followers about any and all kinds of footwear. They geniuely seem to love getting (and giving) feedback to all their fans.

Estee Lauder (@EsteeLauder)
Get expert beauty advice (and tons of compliments) from the folks handling the Estee Lauder Twitter feed. They do a super job of mixing things up with tips, quotes, retweets, information and photos.

Gap (@Gap)
The social media coordinators for Gap are obssessed with fashion. But in a good way! Besides handling customer complaints, they regularly retweet and chat with followers about their latest purchases.

Godiva (@GodivaChoc)
If it’s not too torturous for you, following Godiva on Twitter can lead to all sorts of happiness. And chocolate. Lots of chocolate. Find plenty of user interaction via comments and retweets, as well as mouth-watering photos.

The Home Depot (@HomeDepot)
Nicole and Blake do a stellar job of funneling customer service complaints/requests, as well as sharing Special Buys of the Day and home repair tips and suggestions. Not to mention oodles of cheerleading support for their do-it-yourself followers.

JCPenney (@jcpenney)
JCP is a pretty family friendly kind of department store, and their Twitter feed is a real good reflection of that. Lots of interactions with followers, as well as updates on sales, new product lines and more.

Juicy Couture (@Juicy_Couture)
While there’s not much in terms of retweets and @ mentions with users, the Juicy Couture team spares no expense in the hashtag department! You’ll find some incredibly bubbly tweets mixed in with such entertaining hashtags as #rainbowofpants and #sandalsandminisandcutoffsohmy. If you’re a fan of Juicy Couture, you’ll <3 them on Twitter for sure. #WarmAndFuzziesIndeed

The Land of Nod (@TheLandofNod)
Childhood should be chock full of fun and innocence and that’s pretty much what you’ll get from The Land of Nod’s Twitter account. Expect a little bit of everything: fun facts (Did you know: A giraffe can clean its ears with its own tongue?), debates (at what age do you start having “kid parties”?), and oodles of great interactions with their followers.

LOFT (@LOFT)
Need a fashion critic? The LOFT Twitter crew is constantly sharing user photos and commenting on their latest outfits. You can also get in on giveways, coupons, sales, deals and all sorts of entertaining info.

Meijer (@meijer)
Just like the family-owned business, you’ll find a little bit of everything on Meijer’s Twitter account. Famous quotes, contests, giveaways, sale alerts and plenty of chatting with their followers.

Men’s Wearhouse (@menswearhouse)
You’re going to like the way they tweet. We guarantee it! Joe, Sarah, Nicole & David join forces to really keep the conversation moving as they offer stylish tips, fill-in-the-blank tweets, and loads of giveaways/contests.

Nordstrom (@nordstrom)
One of the more interactive merchants out there, if you plan on shopping at Nordstrom soon (or just got back from a shopping spree), definitely let them know! They just love asking what you bought, commenting on your purchases and generally talking with all their followers.

Old Navy (@oldnavy)
Old Navy puts out some really… odd commercials. Odd but fun. Their Twitter feed isn’t nearly as odd, but it’s definitely as much fun. There’s plenty of coupons, sales, giveaways and store info to go around but there’s also lots of wacky, interactive tweets to get followers involved.

Omaha Steaks (@OmahaSteaks)
The biggest problem with following Omaha Steaks on Twitter is that it’ll make you crazy hungry! You’ll find photos, sales, coupons and giveways, as well as support for their meat-loving, ever-grilling followers.

Origins (@Origins)
The Origins crew does a fantastic job of listening to its followers, offering helpful tips and suggestions to all sorts of natural beauty-related questions. They also share info on various free samples when available.

PetSmart (@PetSmart)
The Internet was invented solely for the purpose of sharing photos and videos of kittens and puppies. So how are you NOT following PetSmart on Twitter?!? It’s a non-stop pet party! While there isn’t much interaction with followers, you’ll get an overload of pet tips and cuteness.

Piperlime (@PiperlimeBrand)
Talk about friendly service! You can tell the people Tweeting at Piperlime really do love their followers since they spend most of the day chatting about their latest purchases. Piperlime’s also proactive in that they ask specific questions or “fill-in-the-blank” type tweets to keep the converstaion moving.

Radio Shack (@RadioShack)
Besides helpful information and great customer service, the duo handling the electronic retailer’s Twitter account regularly shares useful links and apps. You can also jump in on some great contests regularly for gift cards, T-shirts or electronics.

Sears (@Sears)
You’ll find a great mix of customer service, cool new products, store trivia and all-around fun links from the department store’s official Twitter account.

Sierra Trading Post (@sierratp)
The community tweeps behind Sierra Trading Post sure are jealous of their followers. Besides tweeting about the latest sales or deals, the STP gang engages its users who are sharing their outdoor adventures be it hiking, surfing or snowboarding.

Snapfish (@snapfishbyhp)
Users love sharing their photos, and Snapfish loves re-sharing (a.k.a. retweeting) them with all of their followers. They’re also quick to jump on any customer service issues you may have, and great at offering product suggestions tailored to your photos.

ThinkGeek (@Thinkgeek)
Strap yourself in for some highly entertaining posts from the monkey-filled HQ of this awesome pop culture-loving, geek-filled store. You can also expect random coupon codes, including some highly discounted ones like a $100 event. Best of all, no poo throwing.

Urban Outfitters (@urbanoutfitters)
Some nice fan interaction, along with a ton of great opinions and Instagram photos to show off the latest fashion trends from the fun folks at Urban Outfitters.

VitaminShoppe (@VitaminShoppe)
Some of the healthiest tweets come out of the VitaminShoppe account. Get tips on physical and mental health, as well as the latest news on exercise supplements, working out and losing weight. Nice interaction with their followers too!

The Walking Company (@thewalkingco)
Great conversation and customer service is complimented beautifully by inspirational tweets about walking, getting in shape and enjoying the outdoors.

Wet Seal (@wetseal)
The gang at Wet Seal taught us that “stressed” spelled backwards is “dessert,” so we’re hooked! Get coupon and sales info, inspirational tweets, fun facts and photos, and plenty of all-around great interaction.

Did we miss your favorite online store’s Twitter account?
Share it in the comments below!

Spring Colors Every Closet Needs

Posted on March 15, 2012 by JoeShopping

Spring is my second favorite season (Fall is the first). I love the pretty weather and the burst of colors that comes through nature, from the trees and the grass to the flowers and the birds. Everything just seems to be alive and growing. There is an excitement and anticipation in the air, just knowing that the days are getting longer and the weather is getting nicer. Being outside is so therapeutic to me.

With Spring fast approaching, it’s time to start packing away the winter clothes and moving the spring and summer clothes to the front. I love going through my closet periodically to remember exactly what pieces I have to work with. There’s something refreshing about getting rid of old clothes and making room for new clothes. The warmer weather brings about a desire for brighter colors and bold outfits. There’s a few colors that are really “in” for Spring right now. I usually don’t worry about being really trendy, but these colors are so fun that you will want to jump right on the bandwagon! Read on.

Spring Trends by mgcheerl featuring a button shirt

OUTFIT #1

In outfit number one, the cobalt jeans are the scene stealer. Cobalt is such a bright color and really looks good on all skin tones, whether fair or dark. My favorite way to wear cobalt is with jeans (as above) or with a great blazer. Then you can pull more neutral pieces from your closet to pair with this bright color. Don’t be afraid to pair other colors with it, though. Look how awesome that yellow belt goes with the bright blue! I’ve been looking for some cobalt jeans and I love this Guess pair. Don’t forget to use coupons, as sometimes jeans can be a little pricey.

OUTFIT #2

The second outfit pictured above is my favorite color combination right now…turquoise and coral. Talk about stunning. These two colors go so well together in any version, whether its clothing, home design or stationery. I just can’t get enough of their pairing. I used the white skirt as a calm neutral piece since there is so much color going on everywhere else. Look for turquoise and coral jewelry or shoes that you can add to pieces that you already own in your closet.

OUTFIT #3

Oh, pink. My favorite color. I’m so glad that it is officially “in” right now. I mean, to me it’s always in, but I’m not a fashion trendsetter unfortunately. I love the bright pop of color that the pink jeans add to the outfit. Talk about stepping out in style! These are perfect for those days where you are channeling your feminine, girly side. Paired with a flowy white blouse and a pair of nude pumps, this is an outfit that you can be comfortable in all day. Bonus: you will look amazing, too!

Don’t forget to use the accessories that you already have to add a little oomph to your outfits, including jewelry, belts, scarves and shoes. Go ahead and start shopping…these colors are waiting to be worn. I know they are pretty bold, but give them a try. You will be amazed. Oh, and guys, don’t feel left out. Y’all can wear these colors, too. A cobalt or pink t-shirt is completely acceptable.

Are there any Spring colors that y’all are excited about? Tell us in the comments below!

Disney Store Spotlight: Magical Products

Posted on March 13, 2012 by JoeShopping

It’s no secret that I love everything and anything that has to do with Disney. Since it’s spring break for many (or spring break is on its way for many people), a lot of kids, adults,and more kids are heading to Disneyland and Disneyworld.

In particular, I’m a huge fan of Disneyland in Anaheim, CA. Considering I’ve had a park pass for a series of years tells you that I never get tired of heading to Disneyland and wandering around the theme part. There’s something really joyful about that place, even with the crazy lines. It is indeed the happiest place on Earth. But – I have learned when to go so I can get on a ride quickly and when also to avoid this theme park, which can fill up during certain weekends and seasons.

Right now I’m missing Disneyland something fierce, but I can shop online at JoeShopping.com and explore all of the latest products that are available to help ease my Disneyland separation anxiety. There are so many fun and cheerful products available too! Whether you are shopping for your child or yourself, there are plenty of happy items that the Disney Store always has to offer. Plus don’t forget about the Disney Store coupons!

If you desire to revamp your bathroom for yourself or for your kids, the Disney Store has a Pixie Dust BodyWash that would look adorable in your shower. Every time you take a shower or bath it will be fun to use a “pixie themed” bath wash that’s sweet and simple.

In the same way if you want to add Disney details to your kitchen there is a fun 25th Anniversary Mug available. With the bold blue color and fun Disney characters all over the mug this will be the perfect addition for you to use to hold your Sunday morning coffee every weekend.

By the way, there are several other 25th Anniversary Disney products available too, such as note cards, a Disney tee for boys, a Disney tee for girls, and an aluminum water bottle.

There are also adorable Disney characters for an iPhone case and this special design is called a Kidada. Find a Tinker Bell iPhone case that’s full of sass due to Tink’s spunky personality. To match your iPhone you can also buy the Kidada Wish – a Littles Notecards that comes with stickers and other cute accessories.

P.S. if you love Tinker Bell you might want to check out this 4″x 6″ Tinker Bell photo frame to decorate your little girl’s bedroom or to add a picture of the family or you and your girlfriends. It would be so cute on a bookshelf or on your bedstand to glance at before you go to bed!

So as you can see there are several adorable Disney Store products to buy. I would love to buy all of these cute items that I just mentioned. Of course if I had a little girl or boy I would have a lot of Disney inspired elements in his or her bedroom as well.

So what do you think of Disneyland? Do you love it as much as I do?

Any favorite items that you can’t live without?

Tell us in the comments below!

This Week’s Printable Coupons 3/12/12

Posted on March 12, 2012 by JoeShopping

Daylight isn’t the only thing you’ll be saving this week. Get up to $5 off with new Printable Coupons from brands like Kellogg’s, Starbucks, Clorox, Glad, and more.

Fire up the printer and grab your store loyalty card. Here’s a look at this week’s hottest coupons!

PRINT & SAVE ON THESE PRODUCTS NOW!