If you're foolish enough, like me, to head to frigid New York City on a winter holiday, at least visit the many holiday markets the city has to offer.

I went to the one at Union Square where I found painted cooper earrings by Bora from Greece for only $20 and a lovely silk-strewn necklace with a cascade of small gems for $47. You'll also find Christmas decor, unique leather goods and lots of fun gifts for children at the Holiday Market.

Similar markets can be found at Bryant Park, where you also can ice skate, Grand Central and Columbus Circle. So, wherever you land in the city, there is a holiday market to shop.

The markets feature booths from stores around Manhattan as well as the outreaches and independent vendors. While I wouldn't count on a return policy, I found the shopping experience more fun and interesting than the overcrowded department stores with faux sales (20 percent off and only $800!).

South Florida retailers might do well to copy this NYC idea. After all, our weather is much more conducive to outside shopping. -- Marcia "Bargain Hunter" Pounds

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If you do your homework in advance the Black Friday sales will be even more amazing! Keep checking our blog for more promotions.

Here's a link to print a $10 off $25 coupon at Macy's. And a savings pass to use storewide. Print both from the link below.

Macy's coupons

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Been thinking about Black Friday, trying to decide what's my plan. I don't know about you, but 5am is not fun in my book. I'd rather pay double than get up at 4am!!

If I shop on Black Friday, it will be at Sawgrass Mills, or one of the other stores that will open at midnight on Thursday for the shopping frenzy. Right now I am buried in notes...trying to figure out what I might buy, and where I need to go to get it. I can't shop in that bedlam unless I'm organized.

A website that tries to make sense out of Black Friday for the consumer is BFAds.net. It has links for advertised sales, store hours, buying guides for laptops, televisions, GPS devices, and more. There are also message boards where you can post questions or past experiences and advice.

You can even register and work up a personal shopping list. And BFAds.net promises not to sell or share your email address. I'll bet they wind up with a lot of useful data though.

Where will you be on Black Friday?

We give you great shopping tops all year long! Bookmark us!

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Thanks to the folks at Kohl’s we don't have to search Websites for their Black Friday specials.

Better get to bed early Thanksgiving night because Kohl's opens at 4 a.m. The Early Bird specials are from 4 a.m. to 1 p.m.

Thanksgiving shoppers also will get $10 off future purchases for every $50 spent.

Here are some of the 300 specials:

Toys: 50 percent off entire stock including popular brands like Fisher Price, Playskool, Barbie, Tonka, Matchbox and Hot Wheels. This year it also covers Little Tikes, Crayola and Play-Doh.

Designer brands for misses: 40 to 50 percent off entire stock of apparel including:
Simply Vera Vera Wang – $17 to $100.80, originally $34 to $168; Elle Contemporary Collection – $8.99 to $49.99, originally $24 to $84; Daisy Fuentes – $8.99 to $35.00, originally $18 to $89.

Chaps apparel for misses (selected styles): 55 to 60 percent off; $13.50 to $75.80, originally $30 to $189.50.

High-definition video camera value pack including 2GB SD card, tripod, rechargeable batteries, cable and pouch. Records HD video and captures still images up to 12M resolution: $99.99; regularly $199.99.

Kohl's is cool. You can check out the ads now at kohls.com.

XOXO -- Shopper Girl

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Each year about this time Santa Claus brings presents a little early for women: The cosmetic counter holiday specials

If you buy right, you might not have to buy makeup all year long. I'm still using the eye shadow from a holiday Estee Lauder special from a year ago.

This holiday season Lancome seems to have the best deal. For a $36 purchase, you can buy a Lancome case full of cosmetics for only $49.50, supposedly a $339 value. While a few items are decidedly small, the Lancome case has full-size lipsticks and a variety of some of its best products.

I spotted this deal at Nordstrom's. It's the holidays and time to put on a happy face, or at least a nicely made up one. -- Marcia "Bargain Hunter" Pounds

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On my shopping list this weekend are some warm jammies. Not only has it been a little chilly lately for this reborn Floridian, I occasionally head north during the holidays where I know I'm going to be freezing my fanny off.

No Victoria's Secret here. Something solid like J.C. Penney. My mother bought me a pair of pajamas a few years ago from JC Penney or Sears -- two department stores reliable for relative gift giving because items can be returned in other cities.

These PJ's look cute, for $24.99 to $28.99. I may look at these and possibly use JC Penney's $10 off coupon this weekend for items $25 and over.

I want to be warm, but since I fully intend to return to better weather, I don't want to pay a lot for it! -- Marcia "Bargain Hunter" Pounds

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How early were you planning to get up tomorrow? You could get a free iTouch, iPod Nano or iPod Shuffle from Tommy Hilfiger and Details magazine.

The first 10 customers who spend more than $500 at Hilfiger's Aventura Mall store will get the Apple iTouch.

The first 50 customers to spend more than $300 will receive an iPod Nano, and the first 50 customers to spend more than $150 will receive an iPod Shuffle.

And the first 100 customers to spend more than $100 will receive a Details Style Manual.

Doors open at 10 a.m. A live DJ will play from 1 to 5 p.m. and refreshments provided by Coca Cola Zero. The store closes at 9:30 p.m.

Tommy Hilfiger is located at 19501 Biscayne Blvd., Suite 147, Aventura. Call 305-931-1631.

XOXO -- Shopper Girl

P.S. Tommy Hilfiger designs cool stuff like this women's red leather watch ($95).

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Are you heading to Burlington Coat Factory for Black Friday specials?

Here are some of the cool things in their ads:

Hannah Montana or Spiderman jacket for $19.99

Gloria Vanderbilt twill jeans for $7.99

Diamond Accent Pendants for $29.99

You can find all of these ad scans on http://bfads.net/Adscans

XOXO -- Shopper Girl

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I just got back from a girl's trip to Italy...a college sorority sister restored an old farmhouse in Tuscany (sound familiar?) and threw a magical housewarming party for about 100 of her closest friends!!

Nine of us were UF classmates, trapsing around Italy, reminiscing and laughing hysterically about days of old. I tried to photograph and video the antics, but most often I was laughing so hard, there was no keeping the camera still!!

Have you ever played "go around the table and describe your worst date ever" while consuming massive quantities of Chianti? (Chances are we will never be invited back to that restaurant.)

Next time, I'll be prepared. Look at these cool flexible tripods. They will attach to lots of things, or work like a traditional tripod, just to steady the camera when you get the giggles. I'll bet it would hold on to a Chianti bottle neck.

What a cool gift idea for the camera enthusiast in your life. I know I want one....before my next trip!

There are probably lots of flexible tripods out there, a co-worker got his for around $10 at Walmart. I surfed around the Internet and liked these by Joby, called Gorillapods. The smallest one, strong enough to hold a point-n-shoot, sells for $21.95 straight retail, both on Amazon and on Joby's website.

Now if you read this blog, you know we don't like to pay straight retail for anything. So let us know if you come across a better deal!! Hopefully...before I buy mine.

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Love those coupons!

Print the coupon in the link to get $5 off a $20 purchase at Walgreens on Friday and Saturday, 11/14 and 11/15 only. There are a lot of sales this week, so combine this coupon with the sale prices and you will be a strategic shopper!

For example, this week Walgreens has buy-one-get-one-free offers on Arm & Hammer laundry detergent, Scotch tape, Kleenex tissues, and Nature Made vitamins. Toss in a few manufacturers coupons and you can stretch that dollar big time.

If you stretch it far enough, you might be able to eek out that new purple sweater you have your eye on!!

Coupon

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With everyone trying to pinch pennies these days, don't forget the grocery store where we tend to buy with our stomachs.

I've found a new site for local grocery coupons, Mygrocerydeal.com. Put in your zip code and you can find deals get coupons for your favorite grocery haunts including Publix, Winn-Dixie, Walgreen's etc.

Checking for groceries near Delray Beach I found roast beef on sale for $3.49 a pounds and golden delicious apples for 99 cents a pound. More questionable were the marshamellow peeps on sale at Walgreens: Have they been around for last Easter or are they just early?

Every bit of savings helps these days, though, so worth doing your homework before heading to grocery shop. -- Marcia "Bargain Hunter" Pounds

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My friend E. from North Carolina was visiting this weekend for a special event. We had some time to kill so we headed to the Sawgrass outlet mall, of course.

We checked out the 50 percent sale at Coach and then Michael Kors outlet store. Coach has some great buys right now, but even at 50 percent off, their handbags are at least $100 -- too much for sensible girls like us who grew up in the Midwest.

But we soon found our bargain at nearby Michael Kors: The French rosebud dress in cream or red, for only $49.99. We liked the red version -- so we both bought it.

This may be the perfect dress. It fits like a dream and it does not wrinkle. It was wrapped up in a tiny Michael Kors bag and unrolled in perfect form -- great for travel.

Two friends shopping together can rack up deals at Sawgrass. We needed black stockings to go with the dress so we headed to Saks Off 5th. We found Donna Karan "invigorating" stockings for only $4.99. Since we bought them together, we even got half off one pair!

Now a diehard Floridian, I rarely don a pair of stockings. It's just too darn hot. But these were fantastic: I've got to go back for more.

All in all, a successful shopping day. Bring a friend with you: it can pay off in savings and laughs. -- Marcia "Bargain Hunter" Pounds

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Earlier this week we told you about http://bfads.net/, a great site that tips you early about Black Friday specials.

Apparently, every year some retailers don't want you to know what their offers are too early. Boo to them.

They keep their lawyers busy with Cease and Desist orders. As of this morning, five have weighed in with their blackouts -- Walmart, Sears, Big Lots, Macy's and Ace Hardware.

Check Lowes.com for the sneak peak of the Lowe's Black Friday ad listing that was leaked by Lowe's. Some of the best buys include a Black & Decker 24-volt, 4-piece Cordless Combo Kit that was $159 for $59.97 and 14-gallon Shop-Vac Wet/Dry Vac that was $89.97 for $29. They also have decor such as the 3-piece 29-inch Bronze Casual Table with two buffet lamps that was $88 for $49. Remember, specials won't be available until Nov. 28. But you can start planning.

Thanks, Lowe's, for being a good sport!

XOXO -- Shopper Girl

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It's my 39th birthday again and all week long I've been getting cards from my favorite retailers, or at least those I signed up for discounts by mail.

White House/Black Market sent me $10 off any purchase; I just have to use it by the end of the month. Same offer with Victoria's Secret.

Loehmann's sent me a birthday postcard with a 15 percent discount valid anytime during my birthday month. And DSW sent me a $5 off postcard, but the purchase has to be $19.95 or more -- a little cheaper but I do get discounts from them all the time.

If you're concerned about giving out your birthday when signing up for these offers, use the first day of your birthday month. My friend J does that and then gets a full month to use the birthday discounts. -- Marcia "Bargain Hunter" Pounds

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No time to shop when we have lines to stand in to vote!

But after you cast your ballot today, check out Kohls.com for 15 percent off everything with only 99 cents shipping per item (unless there's special handling involved.)

Enter the code Election15 to get the special discount.

If you're a Phillies fan -- or know one, you could buy this World Series T-shirt through Kohls.com.

You also can enter to win a $10,000 grand prize in a Kohl's sweepstakes. First prize is a family vacation for four at a Disney World resort and tickets to Cirque du Soleil's La Nouba show in Orlando.

Let's see I've voted, so what shall I buy? Maybe I'll just enter the sweepstakes. It's my birthday week; maybe that's lucky. -- Marcia "Bargain Hunter" Pounds

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In this day of email spam and junk mail, we might think twice about getting on another mailing list, but when it involves savings, it's worth considering.

Bath and Body Works offers a free gift if you sign up for their email list. The bonus is, they will let you know about sales and special offers once you are on the list.

They are very generous with discount coupons if you sign up for their (snail mail) mailing list. You can sign up for the email list online, and stop by any Bath and Body Works to get on the mailing list.

Bath and Body Works email list link

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I love museums, but I'll also share a guilty secret with you. I believe one of the great things about museums is their gift shops. Even if the exhibition was disappointing, the gift shop is the prize to look forward to at the end.

Last weekend my husband Carter and I went to see the Richard Morris Hunt exhibit at Whitehall, the Flagler Museum in Palm Beach. It is a must-see for any architectural buffs.

Anyway, I digress. The gift shop always has something that I desire. This time it was the exquisite jewelry created by artist Nicole Barr. I fell in love with a pair of amethyst earrings that were surrounded with small diamonds, and my husband bought them for me. The regular price was $260 and they were on sale for $155.25. A real deal.

Even better, I got a free compact umbrella for every $35 I spent. This umbrella bonus is available through Nov. 1. I learned it was a special for the slow summer months, but there will be another giveaway closer to Christmas and I'll let you know.

We bought the last pair of earrings in this style, but this Red Diamond Dragonfly pin is another example of Barr's fine work. (See photo courtesy of the Flagler Museum Store.) It is a fusion of fired glass with sterling silver, resulting in beautiful colors that will never change. Her designs also add diamonds, sapphires, rubies, amethyst, topaz and other semi-precious gemstones. The original price was $580. It's on sale for $329.50.

Besides jewlery the gift shop has toys, books, tableware and other goodies.

Whitehall is a great place to fuel your mind and your fantasies. Go this weekend. For more info see, flaglermuseum.us.

XOXO -- Shopper Girl

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I had to go to the place "where bargains were born," Filene's Basement, now that it has opened in Aventura.

It's nothing like the flagship store in Boston. I remember going there with my friend Lynn. It was a mess but a fun mess. Clothes on racks all over the place. I found a slinky black dress for some ridiculously low price.

Aventura is a bit more tame. Clothes are nicely organized on racks sporting designer names. The prices? A bit more steep than I remember in Boston.

Still, there are bargains to be found. The biggest is probably Filene's choice of designer jeans, many for less than $40. A variety of earrings and necklaces are easy pickups as well and designer sunglasses such as a pair of Oscar de la Renta's for $12.99.

Fantastic prices on women's and men's suits, if you're in the market for that.

I fell in love with a wrap dress from Barney's New York, but it was still too pricey for this bargain hunter at $130. But I'll be back. It's worth the drive. -- Marcia "Bargain Hunter" Pounds

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Put on your running shoes and sprint to DSW. The shoe store's sales racks are full of designer shoes -- Michael Kors, Ralph Lauren, Ann Marino and many, many more.

Most are dress-up heels and sandals -- great for holiday events. Get this: I bought two pairs of gorgeous shoes: a marbled shiny brownish black Ann Marino and sexy black pumps from Rampage for $35. OK, I had two $10 coupons DSW had sent me for being a loyal customer -- but still!

So don't wait until you need those satin with rhinestone pumps for the holiday party, go while you can get them el cheapo. -- Marcia "Bargain Hunter" Pounds

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Looking for some good bargains? Check out the great sale at Salvation Army's Broward stores.

On Oct. 25, everything in all six stores throughout Broward County will be 50 percent off except for furniture, which will be 25 to 75 percent off. Among items included in the sale are clothing, furniture, household goods, sporting equipment, books and electronics.

All six Broward County stores will have free drawings for prizes and giveaways.

Here are the locations:

888 North University Drive, Pembroke Pines, 10 a.m.-8 p.m., 954-433 2160.
1791 W Broward Blvd., Fort Lauderdale, 10 a.m. -8 p.m, 954 463-3725.
310 N State Rd.7, Margate, 10 a.m.- 7 p.m, 954 979-6999.
2300 SW 56th Ave., Hollywood, 10 a.m.--4:30 p.m, 954 961-7523.
451 E Copans Road., Pompano Beach, 10 a.m. -6 p.m., 954 782-3925.
7707 Commercial Blvd., Tamarac, 10 a.m. -7 p.m., 954 721-0705.

XOXO -- Shopper Girl

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Here's an easy gift for mom, the sisters or a good friend: Sterling silver jewelry, earrings, necklaces and bracelets, on sale for 65 percent to 70 percent off at Kohl's in Boynton Beach.

I overheard a man shopping for a birthday present for his wife. He was going to get her a Citizens watch -- also on sale. I wanted to scream at him: No! No! Something romantic, stupid. But I just let the saleswoman gently suggest a more elegant watch instead.

But back to the jewelry: lots of choices, both traditional and modern. Great for gifts for others -- or yourself! -- Marcia "Bargain Hunter" Pounds

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Whether it's Halloween, Thanksgiving or Christmas, Crate & Barrel Outlet at the Sawgrass Mills mall is bound to get you in the holiday mood.

I stopped there on Saturday and found a beautiful table runner 50 percent off, only $19.95. I chose the Alexandra red design, but there's also one with autumn colors (see at right).

Then I found an irrestible item for $6.95: fanciful salt and pepper shakers in the design of snowmen. My friend M collects those for her friend M, so I may pass them on to her. If not, one of my sisters' is getting snowmen as part of her Christmas present.

The snowmen design also is available in a sugar and creamer for $12.95, appetizer plates for $14.95, and tapered candles - snowmen with tall winter hats, 2 for $5.95.

What a fun tabletop for the children in us during the holidays! And at a bargain price, of course. -- Marcia "Bargain Hunter" Pounds

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Sam's Club announced today (Thursday, Oct. 16) that it's offering a $10 membership good for 10 weeks for families and businesses not currently members.

Consumers can sign up for Sam shopping privileges on two weekends, Oct. 17-19 and Oct. 24-26. Sam's Club stores are in West Palm Beach, Lantana, Coral Springs, Sunrise, Miramar and Miami.

Sam's Club, Costco and other discount shopping stores are likely to be busy places this holiday season when most of us are trying to S-T-R-E-TCH that dollar. Check it out. -- Marcia "Bargain Hunter" Pounds

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A trunk show Thursday from 4pm-7pm...have a look at the unique hair accessories in the Evita Peroni line. Jeweled holiday pieces, leather headbands, gorgeous clips and barrettes...

Joann, the national trainer for Evita Peroni, will be at the trunk show to demonstrate simple techniques that transform our look from OK to fabulous.

Evita Peroni

In the Harbor Shops at 17th Street Causeway in Ft Lauderdale.

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No doubt responding to the less-than-cheery retail season expected, Sawgrass Mills outlet mall in Sunrise will open its doors at midnight on Thanksgiving (that's really Friday, Nov. 28).

Sawgrass will have "door busters" and other specials for its midnight opening event.

So if you've had your fill of turkey and pumpkin pie and you need to "walk" it off, try middle-of-the-night shopping at Sawgrass. It will be interesting to see who turns up. -- Marcia "Bargain Hunter" Pounds

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If you have an overwelming appetite for accessories, For Love 21 is your destination.

The sister store to Forever XXI is at the Dolphin Mall in Miami. As my shopping sister Kathy recently wrote, we had a great time picking up jewelry, belts and other items -- mostly under $10 -- at For Love 21.

I tried on a cute hat and bought some belts, but passed on some really fun boots (why didn't I get those! Only $36.) What's great is that anything in this store won't do too much damage to your wallet.

Great place to find holiday gifts for the young fashionistas in your life. -- Marcia "Bargain Hunter" Pounds

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