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Detroit Homeless Man Now Accepting Credit Cards via Square
A 42-year-old Detroit homeless man, Abe Hagenston better known as Honest Abe, is in the business of being homeless. You read that right, he has taken panhandling to the next level by developing a website for people to use to hire him and other homeless people to do odd jobs. He even bought a square so that he can accept credit cards from his cell phone. He has a business license and merchant’s account and all card swipes go through square.com and they do his merchant processing so he has no access to your credit card info.
I was confused because I thought homelessness was the result of some horrible thing that happened to someone, like getting AIDS, losing your house in a fire or having your child get hit by a car and here in your arms one minute and gone the next. I thought that these things could happen to anyone. That was the tragedy. Any of us could fall victim to this type of travesty at any time through no fault of our own just really shitty circumstances. That’s why I give when I can but when I heard words like square, website and business license, it felt more like a choice than a situation beyond one’s own control. It felt intentional but I didn’t know the whole story.
Apparently, honest Abe has been in the business of being homeless for nearly a decade and just got tired of hearing people say that they wish they could help but they just didn’t have any cash on them. It’s true; we are becoming a cashless society. I seldom have cash and usually, I give food because I can charge it. He got tired of just waiting for something to happen to turn his life around so he created a way to help himself and others.
“Being homeless is my business. Now my business is being homeless,” he said.
At first when I heard this story, I was a little leery. I mean, how the hell can a homeless man afford a phone, a data plan, have a website and think to use a square to get donations? I would never have thought of all of that and I work online in the space. Apparently, Honest Abe has a better business sense than most.
When I heard the blurb on the radio this morning, I firmly believed this guy was a scam artist who was lazy and just trying to find an easy way to make a buck instead of working (because there are people who do that.) There was an entire expose a few years back about suburbanites who made panhandling their jobs to the tune of $65,000 a year because they didn’t want to work. They enjoyed the hustle. That’s when I started giving food.
But then I researched his site, watched his video and read his story and I may have been wrong. I think this guy is just smart and trying to make the best out of a bad situation. He actually doesn’t want a hand out, he wants a hand up and he wants to pass it on.
It seems that my life has been a series of rebuilding. Along the way I have learned that hard work, determination, ethical and moral decision making, along with a positive attitude is the right combination to pull yourself out of a hole. However, just once I wish there was someone with a rope to assist. I have never had the benefit of being assisted. I have always found myself in the wrong demographic, ineligible for assistance other than food stamps, having to struggle when I could have been making progress. I have never even heard of a homeless program (let alone seen one) that actually presented itself as a viable pick you up, dust you off and send you running, all the bells and whistles included full package program.
Being homeless gives a person a lot of time to reflect on what went wrong, and what a person could do differently if given the chance.
Hagenston’s cellphone was provided by the federal government’s Lifeline Assistance program and is known as the “Obamaphone.” His website is a free WIX website that he set up and accesses via the public library.
He doesn’t get food stamps and he refuses to lie about his mental state or do anything illegal to get housing. He wants to earn his way but, due to circumstances beyond his control, he is without a home and any identification and this prohibits him from securing employment.
There are 4 options left to me. I could steal, deal drugs, prostitute, or fly a sign. The first 3 are out of the question. I am not slick enough to steal, I am not mean enough to deal drugs, and I am not pretty enough to prostitute. So, you see me at 8 and Woodward. I mean what else am I supposed to do? Just lay down and starve to death?
I think he seems rather bright and business savvy. He may just be a genius. He is not only trying to get himself and other homeless people honest work and pay, he is trying to develop an app to identify the truly needy homeless from those who just pretend to be panhandlers which I would personally love to have because I love to help others but I’d like to know that they are actually in need of food and care not just panhandling because they don’t want to be stuck in a cubicle all day.
If this guy is for real, he is everything we need in this country. We have so many starving, homeless people on our own streets that we need to feed and if they can work for what they earn and provide for themselves, maybe we can help not only feed them but allow them to feel/be productive in society. That is a genuine win win situation for all of us. I find his entrepreneurial sense refreshing. He’s not giving up on himself, he’s reinventing himself within his circumstances.
What do you think of Honest Abe and the business of being homeless?
2016/02/01
Do You Vaccinate?
Do you vaccinate your children? I do. Every time they are due for their vaccinations, I schedule an appointment with the pediatrician and we get our shots. According to the CDC, vaccines prevent more than 700,000 child deaths in the US.
While there are some childhood illnesses that are seldom found in the western world these days, because of vaccinations, there are others that are still very rampant in the world and they do not discriminate by race, color, religion or socioeconomic standing. These illnesses will attack where they can and either you are protected, or you are not.
I vaccinate my children because I want to protect them against childhood diseases that can wreak havoc on their immune systems and even be fatal. I realize that some children cannot be vaccinated due to health issues, and that’s why it is even more important that those who can do, to help protect these children as well.
What scares me is the fact that the entire concept of vaccines relies upon herd immunity, which is the idea that diseases won’t be communicable because most people are immune. If there are enough unvaccinated children roaming the world, the situation can allow for the spread of diseases that we thought were nearly eradicated, like measles, mumps and whooping cough.
The near and complete eradication of these childhood diseases due to vaccines keeps our children safe. Vaccines are a great thing. Now, cases of pertussis, measles and mumps are popping up all over the country. Don’t think it’s going to stop there. The less we vaccinate, the worse this is going to get. No matter the reason behind not vaccinating, being unvaccinated means being vulnerable and susceptible to these diseases.
My point is this: We live in a world where these diseases have become a thing of the past. We don’t plan for them, we don’t worry about them and we don’t know how to readily recognize them. If you are interested in discussing more ways to keep your children healthy and protected against dangerous childhood diseases, please join us for the #CDCvax Twitter Party
What: While it can be easy to think of vaccine-preventable diseases – such as measles or whooping cough – as issues of the past, most of these diseases still persist around the world. Just last year, in 2013, 189 people in the U.S. reported having measles, the largest reported outbreak in the U.S. since 1996.
This year marks the 20th anniversary of National Infant Immunization Week (NIIW), an annual observance to highlight the importance of protecting infants from vaccine-preventable diseases and to celebrate the achievements of immunization programs in promoting healthy communities throughout the United States.
The Motherhood is joining The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention in sharing how immunizations early in life can help protect children from 14 serious diseases before they turn two years old. We’ll be providing the CDC’s recommended immunization schedules, along with interesting facts and helpful tips.
Join us to learn more and share tips of your own for managing your family’s vaccinations and overall health!
When: Wednesday, April 30 at 1pm ET
Where: We’ll be on Twitter – follow the #CDCvax hashtag to track the conversation. You can see the details and RSVP via this Twtvite: https://twtvite.com/cdcvax
Hashtag: #CDCvax
Hosts: @TheMotherhood, @TheMotherhood25, @CooperMunroe, @EmilyMcKhann
Your fellow co-hosts:
Amy, This Mama’s Life – @ThisMamas
Annie, Stowed Stuff – @anniestow
Deborah, The Truth About Motherhood – @TruthfulMommy
Donna, Blog by Donna – @DonnaChaffins
Jennifer, My Boys and Their Toys – @Lovesmytwoboys
Kathy, A Mom’s Impression – @amomsimpression
Kim, Two Kids and a Coupon – @2kidsandacoupon
Lori, A Day in Motherhood – @lomargie
Melissa, Sippy Cup Mom – @SippyCupMom
Sarah, Must Have Mom – @musthavemom

2014/04/29
Finally a Way to Keep Kids in their Beds
There is a new bed in town, the Sleep Number Sleep IQ Kids Bed and it’s not only intuitive, it keeps your kids in bed so they can get the rest all growing children need, allowing you to get the sleep you need. This amazing new smart bed knows when your kids are sleeping and when they’re awake. It even has a monster detection feature on the accompanying app, so kids feel safe from unwanted visitors. Now, only if it had an invisible force field to keep kids in bed, right?
This revolutionary new kid’s bed monitors sleep cycles and can help parents decipher if diet, stress or other activities throughout the day are impacting the quality of their day. I experienced the Sleep iQ Kids bed for the first time at CES in January and it was amazing.
A monster detector deciphers when under the bed is clear of even the scariest of boogie men. By hovering a smartphone or tablet in the direction of the bottom of the bed, a small monster icon will appear and determine if the coast is clear. This would have been amazing when Ella was having nightmares about chickens and lemurs under the bed!
The bed, equipped with tiny hidden sensors, uses digital-signal capture within the mattress and processing techniques to pick up on motion and pressure. It tracks a child’s breathing and heart rate throughout the night too, and blends that data with other factors to determine a SleepIQ score in the morning; the higher the number (based from 1 to 100), the better the quality of sleep.
It’s also interactive. A sleep dashboard (available via an Android app or desktop) shows parents how well each child slept and alerts them in real-time if they need attention and are out of bed. The bed can also tilt if a child wants to read or has a stuffy nose from a head cold or allergies. Meanwhile, soft lights around the bed glow when kids get up or want to read and parents can turn them off remotely when it gets too late or little people nod off to slumber.
The bed is designed to grow with a child. Once they hit 10-years-old, they can manage their own SleepIQ score and see for themselves how exercise, sugar and TV time impact how they feel in the morning. This is intended to teach kids how to make better choices throughout the day and absolutely for newly crowned tween who thinks she knows everything.
SleepIQ Kids, available in stores now, is priced at about $799.99 for the twin size mattress and will come in twin, full and queen size options.
In conjunction with the retail launch of the only smart bed for smart kids, the SleepIQ Kids bed, Sleep Number is rewarding kids who sleep well with six college scholarships! With all the talk about the ballooning cost of college, this contest will truly make some lucky kids’ (and their parents’) dreams come true.
Sleep Number, the sleep innovation leader whose mission is to improve lives by individualizing sleep experiences, is helping make kids’ college dreams come true. In celebration of its new SleepIQ Kids™ bed, which is available today in all Sleep Number® stores and online, the company is launching a contest to give away six college scholarships and six SleepIQ Kids beds. Optimal sleep is important for all and especially for children. That’s why if your child still encounters any sleeping concerns, it’s recommended to try the ferber method.
Sleep Number understands the correlation between sleep and performance, which is why they are recognizing good sleepers who have big ambitions with the opportunity to win one of six college scholarships.
To help parents achieve their kids’ dreams, Sleep Number is hosting SleepIQ Kids Scholarship Contest at all Sleep Number stores, and will award six kids with a college scholarship and a SleepIQ Kids bed – total prize value is $134,000.
Families can visit a Sleep Number store to find their Sleep Number® setting and learn how a better night’s sleep helps kids succeed. Depending on their age, children will either draw a picture or write an essay about why sleep is important to them and how it helps them achieve their dreams.
After visiting the Sleep Number store, parents will receive a special code and Web address to submit their child’s entry online; a piece of artwork (for ages 4-9) or 200-word essay (for ages 10-14). Contest-entry details are available July 31. To find a Sleep Number store, visit SleepNumber.com.
The SleepIQ Kids bed is truly revolutionary. Not only does it offer kids comfort and adjustability with DualAir technology but it also tracks their sleep so parents can help their kids improve both at sleep and in life because the better you sleep, the better you perform. Plus the app includes a monster detector, which is really cool.
Disclosure: I attended CES with Sleep Number to see the bed in person but all opinions of the tech and coolness factor of the Sleep IQ Kids bed are all my own.
2015/07/29
Hottest Father’s Day Tech Gifts
Can you believe that Father’s Day is in 4 days? Me, neither. The Big Guy is hard to buy for. He’s easy in the way that he is a complete tech nerd and loves all things gadget and tech related, especially if he doesn’t need it and especially if it’s out of the ordinary, extremely small or completely unnecessary. Don’t ask me why, he just likes things that are definitely out of the box. I’m pretty sure if he could pick any time period to live in, it would be the time of the Jetsons.
I made a list of all of the really cool tech that dad might like this Father’s Day.
From the obvious to the obscure, if you have a hard to buy for dad in your life who just loves to always have the latest and greatest tech gadgets, boy have I got a list for you for this Father’s Day.
For the Golfer Dad:
OptiShot2 Golf Simulator
OptiShot® Golf allows golfers from around the world to compete against each other on any of the 43 To-the-Tee™ exclusive and private championship course replicas in the OptiShot Golf Course library. Each course provides a realistic and fully immersive 3D environment for play or practice. With OptiShot2, users have the ability to play the same championship holes the top PGA pros are playing on TV, as well as compete in a tournament of their own with OptiShot Live.
With the new OptiShot Live feature, users can play 18 holes on the world’s most famous courses with friends, family and competitors all over the world without ever leaving the comfort of their home or office. This award-winning golf simulator uses the latest in analytic and shot tracer technology with an easy to use interface to create the ultimate real-world golf experience. Compact in size and cost, the OptiShot2 requires no elaborate setup, works with every club in your bag and is compatible with Mac and Windows. With the goal of providing the best real golf experience, OptiShot2 provides technology consistent with professional simulators in a package designed for consumers.
Optishot has launched the OptiShot Tour featuring weekly events and on-going competitions all played on To-the-Tee™ replicas of PGA Tour courses. The PLAYERS Championship course is this week’s tour stop. Just login in to your OptiShot and play the corresponding course anytime from Thursday 12:00am EST – Monday 3:00am EST to be automatically entered for a chance to win free OptiShot Courses for life!
OptiShot Golf Simulator is available at premium golf retailers and online at store.optishotgolf.com.
Zepp 3D Multi-Sport Motion Sensor and Platform
The Zepp 3D Multi-Sport Motion Sensor is wearable sensor that allows dad to review and replay his swing in 360º and HD video, while providing detailed analysis and trend reports sent straight to any iOS® or Android device so he can improve.
Users can review and replay their swing in 360 degrees and see their swing in HD Video.
Then they can compare their swings to pro athletes. The 3D motion sensor easily attaches to any bat, club, or racket using innovative sport-specific mounts. Sensor wirelessly transmits data to a smartphone or tablet via Bluetooth after every swing.
Your guys not into golf? No problem. The Zepp 3-D Multi-Sport motion sensor is for everyone.
Baseball: track bat speed, path, timing, angles at impact, trends and more
- Golf:track speed, tempo, club plane, hand path, backswing position, hip rotation and more
- Tennis:track shot type mix (serve, forehand, backhand, smash), power and spin (topspin, slice, flat) and more
- Able to compare swings to pros and friends and share your swing data with others
- Zeppapplication records critical data and provides analysis, personalized tips, drills and coaching
For the Audiophile Dad:

Cambridge Audio: TV5 – TV Speaker Base
We bought an awesome 55-inch television last Christmas to hang above our mantle, the only thing is the sound quality is awful. The picture is amazing but the sound is like it’s coming through a tunnel. If you have this situation going on why not have the best of both worlds?
Get room-filling home theater sound all from one cabinet and Bluetooth streaming speaker, the Cambridge Audio TV5 speaker base? It’s suitable for use with most flat-panel TVs up to 55 – 60”
It has 100 watt Class D digital amplifier with less than 0.5 watt standby power consumption.
The TV5 also features multiple audio modes for ultra-clear voice reproduction with movies and music and two 2.25” Balanced Mode Radiators (BMR) provide clear sound plus dual 6.5″ powered subwoofers are built-in for deep bass.
Torque Audio’s t103z Headphones
For the music lover looking for something new check out the t103z from Torque Audio. These fully customizable ear buds feature Passive Acoustic Valve Technology so you can swap out TorqueValves™ for a totally individualized listening experience. Use the deep valve for thumping lows, clear valve for crisp highs or the reference valve for a balanced sound. If he likes playing videogames, you can give him the best under $100 gaming headset.
SOUL Electronics: Run Free Pro
Bluetooth headphones appeal to fitness-enthusiasts with comfort and wireless fit. My husband is not a runner but he does walk and move around his office quite frequently and with these he canmove around without worrying about getting hung up or knocking stuff over with the cord.
The Run Free Pro headphones are guaranteed to stay on when active with the first interchangeable ear lock system for custom size and fit, so no more inconvenience of headphones popping out on the run. Wind noise reduction technology allows listeners to listen to music without wind interference while on the go. It also features a sporty and fashionable waterproof design with up to 8 hours of battery life.
The ergonomic remote control with integrated mic for music control and hands free taking make life super easy for dads on the go.
Grace Digital: aptX™ Bluetooth 4.0 Bookshelf Speakers
The aptX Bluetooth 4.0 Bookshelf Speakers are perfect for the dad who just wants to rock out in his office while he “gets some work done.” Sure there may be some air guitar happening but these speakers are crafted with a sleek leatherette casing, modern, compact and lightweight Bluetooth bookshelf speakers that seamlessly stream room filling sound from any Bluetooth compatible device. Simply put, they are awesome.
Engineered for in-home use with full range, CD quality audio, providing a high-quality indoor music experience where portable/outdoor speakers typically fall short. You can pair up to 8 devices via Bluetooth 4.0, with a range of 30 ft
Bonus, while dad’s rocking out he can conveniently use the USB jack on the speakers to charge his mobile device, while still rocking out. It’s the perfect gift for the dad who loves music.
For the Photographer Dad:
Large Power CapXule by Xsories
Summer is the perfect time for the photo-centric dad to get out and start shooting again. But who wants to have to cut their day short because of lost power? Not only will the Large Power CapXule from XSORIES comfortably hold and organize all your gear, the clever case comes with an on-board 2800mAh power bank to get your camera or phone charged in a pinch.

The New Dad:
Izon View Cam
Do you know a new papa who can’t stand being away from the little one while he is at work all day? Keep Dad connected to what matters most with the Izon View an app controlled home video monitor that enables dad to check in on the little ones from anywhere in the world. The Izon View is a great gift for fur parents too!
For the Dad who Loves the Newest and Coolest Tech Toys:
XSORIES: X-Project Wi-Fi
The X-Project WiFi Projector is a Wi-Fi enabled Pocket Projector that shares and displays HD Video from anywhere. It is a portable projector that’s small enough to fit in the palm of your hand. It’s perfect for summer outdoor movie nights because you can wirelessly share HD videos and images directly from online sources, SD cards and/or USB sticks. With it’s 100-lumen LED it projects brilliant color and high-contrast images. Xsories took compact tech to the next level because the X-Project is certainly small but mighty and will bring a smile to your outdoorsy family man.
There are so many cool high tech gifts for dad this Father’s day but these are my tops for the Big Guy!
What will you getting the Fathers in your life this Father’s Day?
Disclosure: I was provided some of the product for review purposes but all opinions and love of tech for Father’s Day are my own.
2015/06/18
The Lone Ranger is Back
When I was a kid, I loved watching The Lone Ranger. My brother and I would pull up our kids sized chairs, mine a red teddy bear and his a rocker, and sit quietly waiting for the Lone ranger to start and then we would immediately start running around the house, pretending to ride horses and shoot bad guys. I remember it being a black and white television show from the 30’s and by the time I watched it for the first time, it had been in syndication for over 40 years but it was new to me and I loved it.It ranked right up there with the Monkees, New Zoo Revenue and the Captain ( Kangaroo to you).
I remember my brother and I running around the house, one playing the Lone Ranger and one playing Tonto and riding our imaginary horses, saving the world from the bad guys; yelling “ Hi-yo Silver!” and the other saying, “Yes, Ke-mo sah-bee!” I loved playing Tonto.
In case you are not familiar with the Lone Ranger, he was a fictional character; a masked, ex-law man who, along with his Native American companion Tonto, fought injustice in the Old West. It was such an awesome show because, not only did it show that the good guys always won, it showed that through tolerance and acceptance we could do the right thing and be the good guy.
Departing off into the sunset on his white stallion, Silver, the Lone Ranger would shout, “Hi-yo, Silver! Away!” As they galloped off, someone would ask, “Who was that masked man anyway?”
Now, Disney is bringing The Lone Ranger to the big screen for a whole new generation and I cannot wait to go see it with my own girls.
From producer Jerry Bruckheimer and director Gore Verbinski, the filmmaking team behind the blockbuster “Pirates of the Caribbean” franchise, comes Disney/Jerry Bruckheimer Films’ “The Lone Ranger,” a thrilling adventure infused with action and humor, in which the famed masked hero is brought to life through new eyes.
Native American spirit warrior Tonto (Johnny Depp) recounts the untold tales that transformed John Reid (Armie Hammer), a man of the law, into a legend of justice—taking the audience on a runaway train of epic surprises and humorous friction as the two unlikely heroes must learn to work together and fight against greed and corruption. ~ Disney.com
The Lone Ranger also stars Tom Wilkinson, William Fichtner, Barry Pepper, James Badge Dale, Ruth Wilson and Helena Bonham Carter.
The Lone Ranger releases in U.S. theaters on July 3, 2013. I will be there to see it. I can’t wait. Can you, Ke-mo Sah-bee?
Photo Source: Disney
2012/03/10
Nothing Says Holidays like Matching Pajamas & Visa Checkout
This is a sponsored post. I received compensation from Visa/Gymboree to buy my products and
use its Visa Checkout online payment service, but all thoughts reflected here are my own.

We had our first snow this week, Tchaikovsky’s been playing on a continuous loop and the first
fire of the season has been stoked in our fireplace. Tis the season of twinkling lights, cozy
pajamas and cuddling with those you love the most. It’s also a reminder that the holidays are
right around the corner.
This year it seems like everyone has decided to skip Thanksgiving and go directly to Christmas.
At first, I wasn’t really onboard with early Christmasing but suddenly I am all about Christmas.
I’m ready to put up the tree and deck the halls and falalalalala all over the place. Bring on the
shopping.
I’m planning ahead for breakfast with Santa and family Christmas card photos. Usually at this
point my head is consumed with thoughts of sugarplums dancing in my head and all things
Nutcracker. That’s what happens when you’re the mom of ballerinas. Your entire holiday season
is broken down into two categories; Nutcracker season and the hurried rush of the two weeks
until Christmas.
When most people are carefully planning their holidays, I am busy hurrying from one
performance to the next. I’m sure all the ballet moms reading this are shaking their heads in
agreement. Don’t get me wrong, it’s totally worth it and I love every minute of being a part of
this part of my daughters’ lives but it doesn’t leave a lot of leisurely time for things like baking
cookies, ice-skating and taking fun, family photos in matching Christmas PJs. I decided this year
things are changing, we’re doing the Christmas cards like everyone else (and not the week of
Christmas like I’ve been doing for the past 5 years.)
In fact, I got on the Internet a couple weeks ago and visited Gymboree and found the cutest
holiday pajamas for the entire family, yes, even my 6’5” husband. Not just coordinating pajamas
but real, honest to goodness, matching pajamas in all of our sizes; from newborn to Men’s 2XL. I
thought it was too easy. I love everything that makes my life easier. Streamlining is my happy
place.
When I went to checkout, I was pretty excited to see the Visa Checkout button. What’s Visa
Checkout? It’s a simple, easy ways to pay with any major credit or debit card online at the sites
you love. Simply create an account once and speed through all of your future purchases without
having to search for the wallet, get it out and re-enter payment and shipping information every
single time. I don’t know about you, but this is a super time saver during the busiest shopping
season of the year.
After the initial account is set up with your major credit or debit card, all that is required is your
username and password. It’s secure with Visa’s advanced security tools that leave customers
with zero liability in case of fraud and it allows shoppers to earn great rewards. Offering a
consistent, simple experience across desktop, mobile web and apps. Voila, who said the holidays
had to be hard?
Visa Checkout is already an option at many big retailers, and thanks to Visa’s vast network it’s
growing all the time and I know, for a fact, that it’s available at Gymboree.com. What are you
waiting for? Go make your life easier and spend that time actually enjoying your holidays.
2014/11/29
Making the Most of a Master Bedroom
Home renovations are very common in the United States, with homeowners investing time and money to transform their living spaces. We love an underdog story and are all about a fixer-upper. This is why we love a house with “good bones”. According to a report from Architectural Digest, the home improvement industry has seen a surge in activity, Americans spent $363 billion on home improvements, renovations, and repairs in 2020 and $406 billion the following year. This was an 11.8% increase from 2020 and nearly three times the average annual growth of 4.4%. By 2022, homeowners’ spending rose to $472 billion. Motivations behind these projects ranged from needing to upgrade aspects of their home to just simply wanting a change. For me, when making the most of my master bedroom, top of the list of wants is luxurious furniture and decor on a budget. I have great style but with teenagers, tuitions and all that entails sometimes my finances and style are out of sync.
When it comes to home renovations, the master bedroom often takes center stage. As a sanctuary for relaxation and rejuvenation, this space needs to exude luxury and comfort. While many may assume that achieving a high-end look in the master bedroom requires a hefty budget, plenty of affordable solutions can elevate your room’s aesthetic without breaking the bank.
Here are a few decor and furnishing tips to consider:
Incorporate antique furniture
Antique furniture pieces can instantly elevate the look and feel of a master bedroom for less. A trend report highlighted by Real Simple states that vintage furniture store Kaiyo customers have saved over $50 million on top furniture lines compared to buying brand new. Aside from being a wallet-friendly option, vintage dealer Steven Brown says antique furniture is also more durable and made with better craftsmanship than mass-produced pieces. For those looking to infuse their bedrooms with a touch of elegance, visit thrift stores and estate sales or scour online marketplaces. Hunt for pieces like antique dressers, bedside tables, or a vanity that can add character and sophistication to your bedroom without the hefty price tag.
Upgrade your bed
One of the simplest ways to achieve an elegant bedroom is by upgrading to a larger bed size, as they effortlessly evoke a luxurious feel. Additionally, large California king beds are a surefire way to enhance your sleep, providing ample space even if you co-sleep with your kids. In fact, I’m not sure we would have survived the little kid years without a California King sized bed. It allowed for all the togetherness without the discomfort. While it may be a bit more expensive than smaller sizes, the benefits of improved sleep and enhanced bedroom aesthetics are well worth the cost. To create a more opulent atmosphere for a fraction of the cost, consider the California king bedroom sets that are labeled under “outlet” or “clearance” on Living Spaces. There, you can find options like the Willow Creek Cali king set for nearly half the average price of $2000 for a new Cali king bed frame. This set also has a matching dresser and nightstand, which means even more savings.
Don’t leave the walls blank
If you’re working with a bedroom that’s on the smaller side, maximizing wall space is essential. As discussed in our post How to Maximize Space In A Small Home, there are a few ways you can do this. For instance, you can install a tall bookcase that reach the ceiling or try a living wall planter. Alternatively, you can adorn your bedroom walls with framed artwork to add depth and visual interest. Good art can easily be very expensive. Luckily, you can find affordable art made by small artists at flea markets or on sites like Etsy. Interior design experts recommend going for large-scale pieces that complement your room’s color scheme for a polished, high-end look.
Opt for luxe curtains
When creating a luxurious ambiance, pay attention to the importance of curtains. Decorators advise against synthetic fabrics such as polyester and viscose, which can cheapen a room. Instead, Housing.com suggests hanging curtains made of flowy cotton or linen. These are well-suited for both traditional and modern bedrooms. Plus, they’re pretty low-maintenance and can be machine-washed rather than professionally cleaned, which MoneyPantry estimates can cost upwards of $189. Cotton drapes can be layered over blackout curtains, so you don’t have to choose between style and privacy.
Making the most of a master bedroom and transforming it into a luxurious retreat doesn’t have to break the bank. By incorporating these budget-friendly strategies, you can achieve an expensive look without spending a fortune. You can have luxurious furniture and decor on a budget. With creativity and thoughtful planning, your master bedroom can become a sanctuary of style and comfort, offering a peaceful haven to unwind amidst the demands of daily life.
2024/06/13
How to Celebrate Your Pet’s Birthday in Style
Estimated reading time: 5 minutes
Has your pup’s birthday crept up on you, leaving you scrambling to pull together a last-minute celebration? Or perhaps you’re a pet parent who has always wanted to throw an over-the-top party for your fur baby ( you know just like the themed ones I threw for my girls throughout the years….who can forget Bella’s Moulin Rouge 5th birthday party ), but the idea of planning it all has made you want to curl up and take a nap instead of fetching the treats? Well, friends, your prayers have been answered, because PartyAnimal is here to make your dog’s special day an unforgettable extravaganza – with minimal effort on your part. This is how to celebrate your pet’s birthday in style.
Disclosure: I was provided a PartyAnimal party pack and Tiger Toes for review purposes but all opinions are my own.
As the proud mom of the world’s cutest Dogue de Bordeaux, Stella, I know firsthand how quickly those birthdays and “gotcha days” can sneak up on you. Between work, family obligations, and keeping those four-legged kiddos entertained, finding the time to plan an epic celebration can feel like an impossible task. That is, until I discovered PartyAnimal. This brilliant brand has revolutionized the way we celebrate our furry friends’ big days, taking all the stress out of party planning so you can focus on showering your pup with all the love (and treats) they deserve.
PartyAnimal’s personalized PartyPacks are the ultimate hassle-free solution for busy pet parents. These ready-to-go kits arrive at your doorstep, packed with everything you need to transform your home into a one-of-a-kind dog birthday bash. From custom decorations featuring your pup’s adorable face to handcrafted accessories they’ll feel like a true VIP (Very Important Pup) wearing, PartyAnimal has thought of it all.
Now, I know what you’re thinking – a personalized party for your pup has to be crazy expensive, right? Wrong! PartyAnimal’s PartyPacks are incredibly affordable, with a one-time purchase price of just $98. And if you want to make this an annual tradition, you can sign up for their subscription service and receive a new, customized PartyPack delivered to your home every year for only $78. That’s 20% off the one-time price!
Ready to celebrate your pet’s birthday in style?
So, what exactly does a PartyPack include, you ask? Prepare to be blown away:
- A personalized birthday banner starring your dog’s adorable face
- A handmade birthday hat with your dog’s name and new age
- A handcrafted bandana embroidered with their name and age
- Custom birthday treat toppers featuring your pup
- Two personalized party hats so the whole family can join the fun
- A 50-piece balloon arch with a giant number balloon
- A personalized pack of stickers with your dog’s face
- A FREE electric balloon pump for easy installation
Seriously, how cute is all of that?! And the best part is, PartyAnimal has handled every single detail, so all you have to do is throw on your party hat, bust out the pup-friendly cupcakes, and get ready to celebrate in style.

But PartyAnimal isn’t just about making your dog’s birthday extra special – they’re also on a mission to help other pups in need. The brand donates 10% of their net proceeds to dog rescue-focused charities, ensuring that every PartyPack purchase makes a positive impact on the lives of our four-legged friends. So not only are you giving your own pup the party of a lifetime, but you’re also supporting dogs across the country who are still searching for their forever homes. Talk about a win-win!
Now, I know what you’re thinking – with all these amazing features, a PartyPack must be too good to be true. But let me tell you, the team at PartyAnimal has thought of everything. Their products are made with high-quality materials that are built to last, and their customer service is truly top-notch; friendly and helpful. I felt like I was chatting with a fellow dog parent rather than a faceless brand.
And let’s not forget about the paws-itively perfect paw-cessories that’ll make your dog’s birthday celebration even more special. Take, for example, DOK’s TigerToes – innovative dog socks that provide comfort, stability, and mobility support for senior pets (or any pup who struggles with joint issues). These bad boys are specifically engineered to offer maximum traction on hardwood floors and other slippery surfaces, keeping your furry friend steady on their paws as they strut their stuff in their new birthday ‘fit.
The thick rubber soles also act as a barrier between your dog’s paws and the ground, protecting their precious pads from extreme temperatures and rough terrain. Whether you’re venturing out for a birthday walk on icy sidewalks in the winter or hot pavement in the summer, these versatile socks will keep your pup’s feet safe and comfortable. And let’s not forget about the relief they can provide for excessive paw licking caused by allergies – TigerToes are a game-changer!
So, what are you waiting for, pet parents? It’s time to start planning the ultimate birthday bash for your furry friend! Head to PartyAnimal’s website, choose your pup’s personalized PartyPack, add some TigerToes to the cart, and get ready to throw a celebration that will have tails wagging and mouths drooling (in the best way possible, of course). Your dog deserves to feel like the true VIP they are, and PartyAnimal is here to make that dream a reality.
Now, if you’ll excuse me, I’ve got some party planning to do – my pup’s big day is right around the corner, and I can’t wait to see the look on their face when they see their custom birthday bling. Wishing you and your four-legged bestie the happiest of birthdays!
Ready to make your dog’s birthday the talk of the town? Head to PartyAnimal.com and order your personalized PartyPack today! With hassle-free planning, personalized party supplies, and the chance to support rescue pups in need, this is one celebration your furry friend won’t soon forget.
What will you be doing this year to celebrate your pet’s birthday in style?
2025/01/06
How the Connected Home has Revolutionized Our Life
Disclaimer: I’ve been compensated by Best Buy in the form of a new Phillips hue A19 Starter Kit, Phillips hue Go personal wire free smart lights and a Netgear Router with DST adapter and Geek Squad service for free.
Technological advances are making life so much easier than it used to be. One of my favorite technological advances of today is the smart home. We live in such a busy world, getting busier every single day, that anything that makes life easier is a good thing in my book especially if it makes life with my family better. If I were you, before the Vegas summer temp comes, try the spring inspection from airpromaster.com
The new Philips hue A19 Starter Kit and hue Go personal wire free smart lights 800 lumens are part of a Connected Home Story. The kit enables you to experience home lighting in a new way by adjusting colors, timers, alerts and more from your phone. It’s more than just the ability to turn lights on and off, it’s freedom from having to argue with your kids whether or not they turned their bathroom light off before they left the house.
It’s the ability to schedule lights to come on when you are traveling to deter burglars. It’s the ability to set wake up sunrises for the children by allowing lights to gradually come on at a set time versus the harsh blare of an alarm clock and it completely avoids the frustration that tends to ensue when a parent has to continually return to rouse an overtired child or belligerent tween or teen from bed after a late night of talking on the phone with friends.
The A19 starter kit allows you to experience home lighting and transform the way you use light by adjusting colors, timers, alerts and more from your phone or mobile device. The bulbs, accessory lights and bridge work with your Wi-Fi to let you create mood-setting color schemes, or enjoy the right light setting for reading, relaxing, concentrating and many more. You can also easily maintain an automatic schedule while you’re vacationing – so that it looks like you’re home.
It works with Apple HomeKit so you can control your lights with Siri voice control on your iPhone. Turns your existing hue lights into HomeKit controllable lights and discover exciting new use cases through 3rd party homekit apps that also control door locks thermostats and more.
It’s so versatile, you can use it as personal reading light in a dark room, create bright lighting in a room with little existing lighting or no electrical outlets, use it as a kid’s night light, or take it outside to provide ambience on the patio. It also helps you to wake up fresh and energized in the morning with deep dimming. The gradually increasing light intensity gives you the feeling you are waking up from sunrise – gently and naturally. My kids love this and it’s so much gentler than startling them awake by turning on bright lights.
The lights offer 5 patented “natural dynamic effects”: Cozy Candle, Sunday Coffee, Meditation, Enchanted Forest, and Night Adventure. Each dynamic effect has its own mix of colors to set the right mood. You can also choose from fine-tuned shades of white including the soothing “Relax” setting, the vibrant “Energize” setting and more – no need for buying different white bulbs
The Netgear® Nighthawk™ DST Router and DST Adapter with Geek Squad included, new and exclusively at Best Buy provides an easy, all-in-one solution to support your home’s connected devices.
As the number of Wi-Fi dependent products increase in a home they put a strain on the home’s network, especially the router. With the interest in online gaming and 4k TVs, connected devices such as smart thermostats, plus the need to stream shows from Netflix or hulu, it places even more demands on the network. Many households may experience slow Wi-Fi, dropped calls, or experience “dead zones” – which could be improved upon with an “AC” router, Wi-Fi extenders and expert help.
The AC1900 comes with one DST, or “Dead Spot Terminator,” adapter – to eliminate your Wi-Fi dead zones. Additional adapters can be purchased for other dead zones.
This high-performance router was built to support 10+ connected devices – you can also prioritize devices for streaming videos or music, and included advanced features for lag-free gaming. So the girls can be streaming Netflix, I can watch a movie on PLEX while the Big Guy plays Call of Duty and all the laptops and iPad are charging and there is no worry about lags in show playing.
We love having a connected home. Lights are just the beginning. You can read this article on smart buildings to know more about automation. We can control the thermostat, the electronics and make our home safer for all of us.

2015/11/13
I Found Chicago’s Best-Kept Secret: Why StayPineapple Is the Dog-Friendly Hotel That Will Ruin Your Own Bed Forever
There’s something magical about finding a hotel that doesn’t just accommodate your stay but enhances your entire travel experience. As a mom who’s stayed in countless hotels across the globe, I can confidently say that StayPineapple Chicago isn’t just another place to rest your head—it’s a destination in itself that’s capturing the hearts of Gen-Z travelers and cool people of all ages. Bonus: Did you know StayPineapple Chicago is the most Pet Friendly Hotel?
A Historic Building with Modern Vibes
Housed in a National Historic Landmark building in Chicago’s vibrant Loop district, StayPineapple seamlessly blends old-world charm with contemporary flair. The moment you step into the bustling lobby, you’re transported to what feels like the city’s coolest gathering (minus any awkward drunk uncles asking you weird questions). The old-school door keys add to the vintage appeal, though fair warning—losing one will cost you a $50 fee!
During my recent stay celebrating my daughter’s 20th birthday with tickets to Moulin Rouge at the nearby Cadillac Theatre, I was immediately struck by the Instagram-worthy elevator area and the building’s authentic Chicago character. As a native Chicagoan who’s experienced many hotels in my beloved city, the historic architecture combined with playful modern design creates an atmosphere that feels distinctively Chicago without any of the cookie-cutter hotel vibes.
Location, Location, Location
For travelers wanting to experience the best of Chicago, you simply can’t beat StayPineapple’s prime location. Situated in the heart of the Loop, you’re literally steps away from:
- The Theatre District (perfect for Broadway show enthusiasts)
- Millennium Park (hello, Bean selfies!)
- The Art Institute of Chicago
- The glamorous boutiques of the Magnificent Mile
- The architecturally stunning Rookery Building
- Lakeshore East Park (ideal for those traveling with pets)
From my room, I fell asleep gazing at the iconic Chicago Theatre marquee and the twinkling city lights. For shoppers, Primark is nearby, and coffee lovers will appreciate being within walking distance of the Chicago Starbucks Reserve. The central location means you can reach practically any major Chicago attraction within minutes.
The Naked Experience: Sleep Like You’ve Never Slept Before
Let’s talk about what StayPineapple calls “The Naked Experience”—quite possibly the most comfortable hotel beds on the planet. As someone who had unfortunately received both MMR and pneumonia vaccines right before our trip, I can personally attest that StayPineapple’s heavenly bedding saved our vacation.
Each room features:
- Ultra-plush, cloud-like mattresses that make your bed at home seem like a park bench
- Individual European-style duvets that eliminate the dreaded cover-stealing midnight tug-of-war
- Incredibly soft pineapple-embroidered robes that you’ll be tempted to smuggle home
- Minimalist room design with just the right touch of quirky pineapple accents
I’ve stayed in luxury hotels worldwide, but I’ve never experienced bedding that comes close to the comfort level at StayPineapple. I’m still trying to figure out how to recreate this sleep experience at home!
Officially the Most Pet-Friendly Hotel Brand in America
If you travel with furry family members, StayPineapple isn’t just pet-friendly—they’re downright pet-obsessed. They’ve been recognized with numerous awards including being listed as one of the Best Pet-Friendly Hotels in Newsweek’s 2025 Readers’ Choice Awards and ranked #1 in BringFido.com’s list of Top Dog-Friendly Hotel Chains.
Your four-legged companions receive:
- A special Staypineapple dog bed for use during your stay
- A Staypineapple treat tin (afternoon delight for dogs!)
- A collapsible water bowl to keep
- Walk-friendly waste bags in a yellow holder
Unlike many hotels that claim to welcome pets but make it difficult to actually enjoy your stay with them, StayPineapple truly accommodates your entire family—fur members included. They even let you leave your pet in the room while you explore the city (just use their special door hangers to let staff know).
The Little Touches That Make All the Difference
What sets StayPineapple apart are the thoughtful details that show they’ve genuinely considered what travelers need:
- Complimentary yellow umbrellas for unexpected Chicago downpours
- Bicycles available for exploring the city
- Afternoon treats and coffee in the lobby
- Friendly staff who seem genuinely happy to assist with any request
- Unique pineapple-shaped cookies that taste as good as they look
The team at StayPineapple has clearly put thought into creating not just comfortable accommodations but a memorable experience. Their “Everything People” approach means that every staff member is empowered to make your stay special.
Worth Every Single Penny
While StayPineapple isn’t the cheapest option in Chicago, the value you receive far exceeds the price tag. From the unparalleled comfort of their beds ( I cannot put a finer point on how damn comfy these beds are) to the prime location and exceptional service, you’re investing in an experience that elevates your entire Chicago trip.
As a mom who values both comfort and creating special memories for my family, I can honestly say I’ve found my new favorite Chicago hotel. There’s something refreshing about a boutique hotel brand that maintains its personality while delivering five-star comfort. Whether you’re a Gen-Z traveler looking for Instagram-worthy moments, a family celebrating a special occasion, or anyone who appreciates the perfect blend of luxury, comfort, and playfulness, StayPineapple Chicago delivers an experience that will have you planning your return visit before you’ve even checked out. Believe me, I’m just trying to decide on a city! South Boston StayPineapple, I’m coming for you! We’ve always stayed at the Hyatt Regency Boston and love it. It’s amazing but I’m not sure the beds can compete with StayPineapple.
And isn’t that what we’re all looking for? Not just a place to stay, but a place that makes us want to staypineapple.
If you want to see how awesome StayPineapple Chicago really is be sure to stop by my Instagram over the weekend. I promise you’ll be glad you did!
What’s your favorite go to hotel when traveling?
2025/05/02