Vidazorb winners- Sherry, Brenda, Cathy, Viva and Marysa!

7th Generation- after 3 days, no reply, so Kim is the new winner!  Yay Kim!
(and man that was a FAST reply, LOL)

Happy Thanksgiving to you and yours!  Have a great day! 

Thanks to American Express for sponsoring my writing today about small businesses.  American Express is presenting Small Business Saturday, a way to honor the local merchants who are the backbone of the economy, this Saturday, November 27.  They’re offering statement credits to people who shop at small businesses, advertising for small–business owners, and donations to Girls Inc. for “Likes” of the Small Business Saturday page on Facebook.  Join the celebration by clicking the “Like” button and then visiting the Facebook page to learn more about the program and read the terms and conditions that apply. 

Small businesses are the heart and soul of many communities.  So many of us head to the mall or to chain restaurants, and those are great for many things.  But there is a special charm and personal feel to shopping and eating at smaller establishments.  I live in a small town outside of one of the most major cities in the country, so you can say that we really get the best of both worlds.  One of my favorite places to eat, especially for nights that we are super, crazy busy, is called Mom’s Kitchen.  I just love it!  We can get Pizza or Chinese food delivered any time, and there are a million fast food places all over the place.  But Mom’s is just so much better!  The quality is good without the price gouge, the food is always delivered super fast, and because the people who work there are invested in their business, it’s always good!  I never have to worry about what it will taste like that night- it is consistently good food.  They have a really fantastic variety as well- it is like a diner that delivers! 
Another store I love is Aunt Jean’s.  It is this really fun toy store, they have so many fun and unique items.  It is a really personal experience, the staff is friendly, they are nice to your kids, and they seem to actually like their jobs.  It is not at all a warehouse atmosphere.   You can take your time, stroll about, look at the products, touch, and ask questions.  And even get answers, LOL.  My kids love it there. 
Small businesses may take a little more time to get to, and may not always be as convenient as a mall or plaza.  But the atmosphere, experience, and shopping will more then make up for that.  If that isn’t enough, remember it is also a boost for the local economy!  It is also a way to give the “little guy” some exposure- and most of us are the “little guy” in one way or another, so for me I feel a sense of camaraderie.  My family owned small businesses for most of my youth, and it’s not an easy thing to do.  When you own or run your own business, you put more effort into it then most people will for someone else’s.  I think you will find your experience can be better when dealing with a small business then a large one at times, simply due to this fact.  You are likely dealing with the owner or the immediate family- they are invested!  They want you to be happy, they want you to return. 
While doing your holiday shopping this year, remember that though you may not have seen the names in a commercial or newspaper flier, your town has some great shopping and dining experiences waiting to be had.  Go exploring!  There are other places you can purchase from then the local mall.  There are some really fun places to eat at that you may not have tried yet!  (Who knows?  Maybe you will find a favorite!)  And happy shopping!

I was selected for this sponsorship by the Clever Girls Collective (link to http://www. clevergirlscollective.com), which endorses Blog With Integrity, as I do. 

Enjoy Holiday savings all weekend
The savings start now. Go online and use coupon code “givethanks“ and save 10% off of your entire order all weekend long. Hurry, this coupon code is only valid until midnight (Pacific time), Sunday, November 28.

Heirloom Wooden Toys secure online store has a sleigh-full of fun, exciting and unique toys the kids will love and cherish. Save time and avoid the long lines by shopping from the comfort of your home or office.

Fun Games

Pedal Cars

Play Kitchens

Hello friends and neighbors,

Many of you may not be aware that Romance in the Backseat is offering a very special Month of Thanks this November.  The most exciting part is coming from Silver Publishing, a generous giveaway of $100 Grocery Gift Card.

November is a time to give thanks to those in our life who day in and day out make our lives better. To give thanks to friends and family that year after year support us. This year there are a lot of families and friends in need of some extra support and help. That is why Silver Publishing has so generously offered to help pay for a families Thanksgiving dinner.

Please share the news about this giveaway and join us to nominate someone in your life who could use the extra help. All nominations are private, our goal is to add some holiday cheer and some extra goodies to the table this Thanksgiving. 

 

Deadly Intent

 http://ritbs.blogspot.com/2010/11/gratitude-attitude-by-kylie-brant.html

The Taming of the Wolf

 http://ritbs.blogspot.com/2010/11/month-of-thanks-lydia-dare.html

Whispers of Scandal

http://ritbs.blogspot.com/2010/11/nicola-cornicks-month-of-thanks-blog.html 

Tyger Tyger

http://ritbs.blogspot.com/2010/11/month-of-thanks-with-kersten-hamilton.html

Black Friday and Cyber Monday shopping can be crazy – but there are some great deals! From November 22 to November 29, place any order at charmfactory.com and receive a free I Love to Shop charm. In the Special Instructions box during checkout, just type “I LOVE TO SHOP,” and we will automatically add the charm to your package.

Initials with Swarovksi Crystals are a very popular gift item this time of year. Add them to a bracelet or as a single pendant on a necklace for an inexpensive bit of bling! They are on sale for a short time.

Pewter Pavé Crystal Charms are new – great looking and at a lower price than the sterling silver version. For a necklace or bracelet, the pavé look with colored crystals is unique on lead free pewter charms.

Hey There- before I take my trip to Chicago, I figured I would let you guys know about a few great things that CSN Stores is working on right now.  They have some really great children’s luggage, which are just perfect for this time of year.  So many of us are traveling to visit friends and family, and its so nice to find fun and adorable luggage for the kiddies!

 As you know from my last review, CSN Stores partners with over 200 online stores, giving you an AMAZING selection and value for your money!  There is truly something for everyone and every budget.
I have a review for you coming soon, so stay tuned! (and have fun shopping!) 
~Samantha