Mother’s Day is just around the corner – Sunday, May 12, 2013 to be exact. How will you recognize the special woman in your life? We’ve rounded up a few of our favorite Mother’s Day gift ideas that are sure to show your mom, grandmother, or wife just how much they are loved and appreciated.

“Mothers hold their children’s hands for a short while, but their hearts forever.”  ~author unknown

Gifts for Mom

Personalized Family Birthstone Rings – Looking for something your mom will truly love? You can’t go wrong with a family birthstone ring. These beautiful rings can be personalized with the birthstones representing each of her children – something she’ll be proud to wear!

Personalized Mother’s Touch Throw – Keep mom warm on cold winter nights with this gorgeous throw.  What makes this gift extra special is it can be personalized with the names of her children – perfect for mom!

Family Tree Canvas - Honor your family heritage with this beautiful watercolor art canvas. This charming tree displays the name of each member of your family on its heart-shaped leaves. Choose up to 12 names, nine characters per name. Each canvas is signed with your family’s last name and the date your family was established.

Gifts for Grandma

Personalized “Grandma” Birthstone Ring - This ring is inspired by the circle of life that bonds mothers, grandmothers, and their children. Hand-set with up to 7 Austrian crystal birthstones of your choice, this ring is perfect for showing grandma how important she is to the family.

Grandma’s Brag Bag – We all know how much grandmothers enjoy bragging about their grandchildren. This “brag bag” is the perfect way for her to display her family pride! Personalize the title of the bag and pick from 12 different fun, cartoon icons to be avatars for your family members.

Grandmother/Granddaughter Breakaway Pendants – These heart-shaped pendants will make a special gift and keepsake for both grandmother and granddaughter. Offered in a beautiful gift box, the pendants are inscribed–one with “Grandmother” and one with “Granddaughter.”

Gifts for Mommy-To-Be

Nikon Pink 1 S1 Compact System Digital Camera - The Nikon Pink 1 S1 Camera shoots razor-sharp images and is perfect for capturing all of life’s special moments. This camera kit comes with two zoom lenses: NIKKOR 11-27.5mm and 30-110mm. Features: 10.1 megapixel resolution, 3.0″ TFT LCD screen with image editing features, Built-in flash, Rechargeable Lithium-Ion battery for up to 220 shots, and more.

Storkcraft Bowback Glider Rocker and Ottoman -  Soothe baby with the comforting rocking motion of the Storkcraft Bowback glider rocker and ottoman. This set features a rich cherry-colored finish, enclosed metal ball-bearings that allow for an incredibly smooth motion and solid wood construction. Sturdy and beautifully finished, this glider rocker and ottoman will be treasured far beyond the baby years.

Personalized “God Bless” Inspirational Ceramic Cross – The special message on this personalized ceramic cross will serve as a constant reminder to the mommy-to-be how much she means to her loved ones. Personalize with any name up to 10 characters, and 2 lines of text. Measures: 10-1/2″ x 8-1/4″ 

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The iPad Commode Caddy

Tired of that stack of magazines cluttering up your bathroom? The iPad Commode Caddy is the ultimate space saver – accommodating both an iPad and a roll of toilet paper! It’s great for browsing your digital reading materials while indisposed.

Learn more.

The Dog Activated Outdoor Fountain

Keep your pets hydrated while they play outdoors with the Dog Activated Outdoor Fountain. This nifty gadget automatically dispenses water when a dog is present. Equipped with a built-in sonar proximity sensor, this fountain detects a dog’s presence and automatically turns the water on and off. Perfect for outdoor pets!

Learn more.

Device Charging Market Umbrella

Don’t you hate it when you’re relaxing outside, engrossed in a great book on your iPad, and the battery dies? With the Device Charging Market Umbrella, dead batteries will never again stand in your way. This umbrella is equipped with four 10″ x 4 1/4″ solar panels woven into the umbrella’s canopy to convert sunlight into electricity.

Learn more.

Whole House Weather Alert System

Does your family have a severe weather plan in place? The Whole House Weather Alert System keeps your family updated when bad weather is approaching. The system’s illuminated color bar indicates a weather advisory (green), watch (yellow), or warning (red) for your specific area and sends audible alarms wirelessly to its remote beacons up to 100″ away, alerting those in different rooms that a weather situation is developing.

Learn more.

The Password Vault

Too many passwords to keep track of? Join the club! The Password Vault will become your new best friend. This device secures account information for website addresses, usernames, passwords, and ATM PINs, and stores them for immediate retrieval. Unlike password information stored on a computer, your passwords are stored offline in the vault’s memory, ensuring sensitive information can never be compromised.

Learn more.

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Easter is just around the corner! There’s still time to find the perfect Easter gifts for your family and friends. Check out some of our favorite deals below. Find Easter baskets, personalized gifts, sweet treats, and more.

Eggstra Cute Plush Personalized Baskets

These adorable Easter baskets are perfect for collecting eggs & candy! Personalize with any name, up to nine characters.

Mrs. Fields Cracked Egg Candy Dish

Send this lovely Easter gift basket that is filled to the brim with sweet baked goods. This yummy basket includes 24 Mrs. Field’s Nibblers and 12 brownie bites.

As Seen on TV Pillow Pets

It’s a toy and pillow all in one! Pillow Pets are made of super-soft chenille that is machine washable, making them the perfect kids companion. Makes a great addition to any Easter basket.

Somebunny Special Easter Gift Basket

Send your some-bunny the Somebunny Special Gift Basket this Easter holiday. This cute basket of treats features a 12-inch plush Easter bunny, nestled among an assortment of delicious treats.

Festive Easter Gift Basket

This gift basket contains the essential Easter goodies. Complete with an egg dye kit and lots of sweets – any child would love to open this on Easter morning. Includes: egg dye kit, 5 marshmallow filled chocolate bunnies, Sour Patch jelly beans (5 oz.), speckled malted milk eggs (1 oz.), Peeps (2.25 oz.), chocolate Easter bunny, candy-filled carrots, Sixlets (1 oz.), Jelly beans.

This blog article may contain links and/or phone numbers to third party merchants (known as affiliate links). We may receive compensation if you purchase a service or product from a merchant. We take our reputation very seriously at ShoppingNexus. This is why we research and write our blog postings articles before inserting affiliate links.

Over the past few months, we’ve highlighted the many benefits of contract-free cell phones. This month, we’ve put together a side-by-side comparison of the top prepaid cell phones offered here at Shopping Nexus. This is a working list. We will continue to update it with new phones each month, so check back often. Have a phone you’d like to add to the list? Leave a comment and tell us why we should feature a certain phone.

This blog article may contain links and/or phone numbers to third party merchants (known as affiliate links). We may receive compensation if you purchase a service or product from a merchant. We take our reputation very seriously at ShoppingNexus. This is why we research and write our blog postings articles before inserting affiliate links.

2012 was a great year for online merchants across the country. A recent report revealed online shoppers in the U.S. spent more than $186 billion last year, a 15% jump from 2011. Consumer electronics remained one of the top-performing online product categories, growing at least 16 percent over 2011. Interestingly, Amazon.com also experienced a similar trend, with 41.7% of U.S. dollar sales in June 2012 coming from the Electronics/Computer category.

In a tough economy where every dollar counts, consumers come to ShoppingNexus.com to compare prices and find money-saving deals on electronics, jewelry, clothing, and more. We know that you work hard for your money. That is why we’d like to take a moment and say “thanks” to all of our loyal customers. We truly appreciate your loyalty!

As always, we will continue to find you new ways to save money in 2013. In case you missed some of our past posts, we’ve put together a list of our hottest selling items from 2012. Find huge savings on laptops, cell phones, camcorders, and more!

#1   

Gateway 15.6″ Laptop PC with 500GB Hard Drive, 4GB Memory

The Gateway® NE Series Notebook is everything you need in a laptop. This computer features: an Intel Pentium B960 processor, a high-definition LCD display, 500GB hard drive capacity, a built-in 1.3 megapixel webcam, Microsoft Windows 8, and much more.

#2

JVC HD Everio Camcorder Value Bundle with 8GB Memory Card

Capture all of life’s precious memories with the JVC HD Everio Flash Memory Camcorder. This camcorder is equipped with a Konica Minolta HD lens and back-illuminated CMOS image sensor, allowing for stunning images and video. The built-in Wi-Fi allows Live Monitoring via smartphone and wireless transfer of files to an Android device or iPhone/iPad.

#3

Straight Talk Samsung S950C Galaxy’s Prepaid Cell Phone

Tired of your outrageous cell phone contracts? Many consumers are making the transition to prepaid options like the Straight Talk Samsung S950C Galaxy. Prepaid phones are great for people who want to free themselves from the binding contracts required by traditional cellular providers. This phone features a bright 4″ WVGA Super AMOLED display, Android 2.3 operating system, a virtual keyboard, 5MP camera, and access to Google Play.

#4

RCA 7″ Dual Screen Mobile DVD Player – Black (DRC69707)

Keep your kids entertained for hours on your next road trip with the RCA 7″ Dual Screen Mobile DVD Player. The color LCD screens easily mount to the back of your vehicle headrests with the included mounting straps. Listen to movies with the built-in speakers, or plug-in up to two sets of earphones for private backseat listening.

#5

HP 2000 Charcoal Gray 15.6″ Laptop PC with AMD E-300 Accelerated Processor and Windows 8 Operating System

With the HP 2000, you get genuine HP reliability for your social networks, web surfing, video chatting and more. Enjoy movies on the brilliant HD widescreen display. Key Features: AMD E-300 accelerated processor 1.30GHz, 1MB L2 Cache 4GB DDR3 SDRAM, 320GB SATA hard drive, store 213,000 photos, 91,000 songs or 168 hours of HD video and more.

This blog article may contain links and/or phone numbers to third party merchants (known as affiliate links). We may receive compensation if you purchase a service or product from a merchant. We take our reputation very seriously at ShoppingNexus. This is why we research and write our blog postings articles before inserting affiliate links.

Personalized Split Heart Key Chain

Give one half of this romantic key chain to your beloved and keep the other half to remind you of your bond. Crafted of nickel-plated non-tarnish metal, this lovely Split Heart Key Chain will endure years of use.

Get It Now for $15!

Personalized Silver-plated Monogram Money Clip

Looking for something special for him?  Personalize this silver-plated money clip with his initials.  It’s a practical and heartfelt way to show your man how much you love him this Valentine’s Day.

Get It Now for $19!

Pink CZ Sterling Silver Stud Earrings and Heart Pendant

Whether you’re shopping for you wife, mother, or daughter this Valentine’s Day, you can never go wrong with a little bling.  She’ll sparkle and shine with these Pink Sterling Silver Stud Earrings and Heart Pendant.  This jewelry set makes a perfect Valentine’s Day gift that won’t break your budget.

Get It Now for $24!

Mrs. Fields Goodies Basket, 108 count

Who doesn’t love a sweet treat for Valentine’s Day?  This Mrs. Fields Goodies Basket is the ultimate Valentine’s gift for foodies.  Filled with a delicious mix of Nibblers and Brownie Bites – this basket is sure to tempt even the most food-conscious person.  Includes: 12 semi-sweet chocolate without nuts, 12 white chocolate macadamia nut Nibblers, 12 oatmeal raisin and walnut Nibblers, 12 cinnamon sugar Nibblers, 12 peanut butter Nibblers, 12 triple chocolate Nibblers, 12 double fudge Brownie Bites, 12 pecan fudge Brownie Bites, 12 walnut fudge Brownie Bites.

Get It Now for $39!

Valentine’s Day Spectacular Flowers with Square Vase, Chocolates, & Bear

This mixed bouquet is sure to impress!  It is crafted from the ever popular Stargazer lilies and blue iris, and is a spectacular way to celebrate Valentine’s Day!  As an added bonus, this bouquet also comes with delicious chocolates and an adorable bear.

Get It Now for $40!

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Baltimore Ravens Super Bowl XLVII Champions Hat

This official NFL New Era Super Bowl XLVII Champions Hat is what the Ravens players and coaches wore after winning.  The hat features the Baltimore Ravens official Super Bowl XLVII Champions logo and is officially licensed by the NFL.  It’s a great way to remember the big game and makes a perfect gift for any Baltimore Ravens fan.

Joe Flacco Rookie Autographed Jersey Football Card #42/50

Numbered 42/50, this Joe Flacco Rookie Autographed Jersey Trading Card is a must have addition to any Ravens memorabilia collection. Manufacturer: Donruss Gridiron Gear, 2008.

Ray Lewis Authentic Signed NFL Ravens Logo Football

Commemorate his last season in the NFL with this Ray Lewis Autographed Football.  The football features the Baltimore Ravens logo.  Autograph authenticity provided by PSA/DNA, #4A75223.

Anquan Boldin Autographed Jersey

This Autographed Anquan Boldin Jersey is perfect for the die-hard Ravens fan.  This highly collectible item comes with a Certificate of Authenticity from PSA/DNA.

This blog article may contain links and/or phone numbers to third party merchants (known as affiliate links). We may receive compensation if you purchase a service or product from a merchant. We take our reputation very seriously at ShoppingNexus. This is why we research and write our blog postings articles before inserting affiliate links.

Did you ever take part in Opposite Day as a kid?  I remember back in elementary school we actually used to have a day during school spirit week called “Opposite Day”.  This was the one day out of the year where we could bend the school dress code.  The point of the day was to wear your clothes opposite of how you normally would.  For example, you would wear your shirt backwards, your right shoe on your left foot, and so on.  Needless to say, Opposite Day typically resulted in an unproductive day at school.

In keeping with our trend of pointing out very obscure holidays/celebrations, we’ve done some digging and discovered that there actually is a day each year devoted to doing things in a back-to-front manner.  Although there is very little information about how Opposite Day came to be, we do know that it occurs every year on January 25th.  So, get ready folks – this Friday is Opposite Day!

How does one celebrate this crazy day?  It’s easy, set your mind to opposite mode.  If you say go right, you mean go left.  If you say look up, it means look down.  Opposite Day is much more fun when celebrated with family and friends, so be sure to get them all involved in the madness.  It’s sure to be one confusing, yet hilarious day!

Opposite Fun For You and Your Kids

Here are some great child-focused ways to celebrate Opposite Day.

Ingenio Bilingual Opposites Flash Cards by Smart Play

Opposite Day is a great chance to teach your kids about opposites!  These bilingual flash cards offer a fun and educational way for your child to learn opposites in both English and Spanish.  The magic motion lenticular cards flip from one opposite term to the other as your child tilts the product.

Learn More

Baby Talk: Opposites Board Book

The Baby Talk Opposites Book will introduce your child to the wonderful world of opposites with simple, fun, and playful illustrations.  This board book is perfect for small hands.

Learn More

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Okay, I know what you’re probably thinking.  The thought of having a day to show appreciation to your houseplants just sounds plain ridiculous, right?  Who would come up with such an idea, and who would actually celebrate this “holiday”?  Well, believe it or not, Houseplant Appreciation Day was created by a group of avid gardeners.  Several years ago, the folks at The Gardner’s Network (a site dedicated to providing gardening tips, growing information, trivia, and gardening resources) came up with the idea to set aside one day a year for growing, caring for, and loving indoor plants.  The holiday, which occurs on the 10th of January each year, is supposed to serve as a reminder to homeowners to give their houseplants a little TLC.

In case you’re wondering how you and your family can celebrate this unique holiday, The Gardner’s Network provides some suggestions.  Here are a few of our favorites:

1. Start by making sure that the houseplants you already have are well watered.

2. Next, give them a special treat today… a little fertilizer.

3. Stand by your houseplant and breath in the air! It’s giving off oxygen… just for you!

4. Teach your kids about growing and caring for plants.

5. Give a houseplant to a friend, especially the elderly or shut-ins.

I Don’t Have Any Indoor Plants…

Don’t worry, that’s an easy fix.  You can find a wide selection of houseplants at your local garden center.  Some of the more popular indoor plants are African Violets, Aloe Vera, Spider Plants, Rubber Plants, and Bamboo.  Before you purchase a plant for your home, make sure that it can be grown indoors and also check for sun requirements.  Offered below are some other good indoor plants that, with proper care, can bring you much enjoyment.

Spathiphyllum Peace Lily

The Spathiphyllum Peace Lily is a beautiful addition to any home or office.  This plant requires little sunlight and is easy to care for, making it a popular houseplant choice.  The Spathiphyllum is also known for its ability to clean indoor air of many environmental contaminants.

Learn More About This Houseplant

Fragrant Potted Gardenia

Gardenias emit a fragrance that can freshen up any room in your home.  This Potted Gardenia is low maintenance and can thrive indoors with plenty of sunlight.

Learn More About This Houseplant

Sansevieria Superva Potted Plant

Want to give your home or office a tropical flare?  The Sansevieria Superva is the perfect choice.  This exotic-looking plant can be grown in a variety of different lighting conditions and can tolerate low humidity and little water.

Learn More About This Houseplant

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If you missed the Free Shipping Day deals, don’t panic.  There is still time to order your gifts and get them in time for Christmas.  Many retailers are extending their deadlines and some, like Toys “R” Us, even offer shoppers same-day in-store pick-up through Christmas Eve.  If you plan to purchase the remainder of your gifts online, make sure that the item is in stock and the merchant has these shipping methods available before placing your order.  Offered below are the last-minute holiday shipping policies of Toys “R” Us, Amazon.com, Best Buy, and Walmart.

Toys “R” Us Christmas Shipping Calendar 2012

Free Store Pickup is available through Monday, December 24.  Just order online by 2PM EST and pick up your order the same day. Click here to read more about shipping guidelines for Toys “R” Us.

Amazon.com Holiday Ordering Cutoffs 2012

Amazon shoppers can place orders as late as 7PM EST on Friday, December 21 using two-day shipping.  Click here to read more about last-minute shipping from Amazon.com.

Best Buy Guaranteed Christmas Delivery

Wednesday, December 19 is the last day to place an order that is guaranteed to arrive by Christmas.  Orders must be placed before 1PM EST.  Best Buy also offers store pickup for select items on December 24.  Click here to learn more.

Walmart Christmas Shipping Guidelines 2012

Order by Friday, December 21 and select Express Shipping.  For last-minute gifts on Christmas Eve, Walmart also offers same-day in-store pick-up.  Remember to allow 4 hours for processing time.  Learn more.

This blog article may contain links and/or phone numbers to third party merchants (known as affiliate links). We may receive compensation if you purchase a service or product from a merchant. We take our reputation very seriously at ShoppingNexus. This is why we research and write our blog postings articles before inserting affiliate links.