I’ve been making my Christmas shopping lists, and once again I expect that one or two toys from Melissa and Doug will be under our tree. I have been purchasing Melissa and Doug toys since my son was a baby. Their products are fun, durable classics that truly stand the test of time. Melissa and Doug have selected their [...]

Like many parents, I often look back on my own childhood for guidance and inspiration as I learn to raise a child of my own. I am the oldest of five children raised by a stay-at-home mom and a dad who provided for the family. We never had very much in the material sense, but [...]

Here in upstate New York we’ve experienced our first snow accumulations and even though the calendar doesn’t say so, we’ve accepted that winter is here! It’s tough spending about half the year with cold, gray weather, especially when there are so many factors that can make your skin feel dry and uncomfortable. There’s the frigid, [...]

There are plenty of dolls geared toward little girls, but for boys the options are more limited. Manhattan Toy fills that niche with a cool line of soft poseable action figures with a sports theme. I first learned about Boysterous Boys through a blog review, and thought they were the greatest idea. I was delighted [...]

If you’re new here, welcome to Jen Spends! It’s time to wrap up our Beat the Rush Gift Guide, and boy do I have an unusual idea in store! I love watching those home makeover shows where the owners are shipped off for a few days while a room or their entire home is redesigned. [...]

Today our Beat the Rush Gift Guide takes us to Savings and Stewardship where Alecia can help you enjoy a fun New Year’s Eve. I love celebrating New Year’s Eve with some fantastic food, staying up late to watch the ball drop, and indulging in a rare glass of champagne (my favorite drink). And of [...]

For today’s Beat the Rush Gift Guide recommendation we turn to Erin at Mommy Octopus. I’m sure you’re all familiar with various daily deal sites that offer vouchers to use at restaurants, stores, hotels and more. When it comes to gift-giving, they can help you get more mileage for your money. Last Christmas I gave [...]