9 Cool Mother-Daughter Matching Handbags


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I am the first one to admit that I do have a weakness for handbags.  One thing I absolutely cannot resist is cute matching mother-daughter handbags.  My daughter and I own a few handbags that match, but not too many.  Such things are not very easy to come by, so I made it my mission to hunt a few down for you.  There are a wide variety of styles and price ranges.  The toughest part is to find a style that both you and your daughter love.  Although you really don't need a special occasion, getting matching handbags would be a fun gift for Mother's Day, a birthday, or Christmas.

Vera Bradley Mother-Daughter Crossbody Bags  |  9 Cool Things
1.  Here we have the Vera Bradley Triple Zip Hipster and Petite Double Zip Hipster Crossbody bags.  Crossbody bags are perfect for girls of any age, as well as busy moms, who need to keep their hands free in order to keep up with their busy, active lifestyles.  These bags are shown in the Vera Bradley Impressionista print, but are available in a wide range of prints and solids.


Kate Spade Mother-Daughter Handbags  |  9 Cool Things
2.  These are the classic looking Kate Spade New York Cedar Street Maise Shoulder Bag and the Maise Satchel from the same collection.  These bags are timeless.  If you pick the right color, you and your daughter will be carrying these handbags for many years to come.  The shoulder bag comes in several classic neutral colors, while the satchel comes in the same colors plus a wide range of fun colors Kate Spade has come to be known for.


Vera Bradley Mother-Daughter Trimmed Tote Bags  |  9 Cool Things
3.  Whether going to the library, to the beach, or away for the weekend, this duo has the versatility to do it all.  Here we have the Vera Bradley Trimmed Vera Traveler and Small Trimmed Vera Tote. These are shown in the Vera Bradley Pixie Blooms print, but there is a huge assortment of prints (and even some solid colors) to choose from for this pair, making it easy to find something both you and your daughter will love.


Vera Bradley Mother-Daughter Classic Navy Bags  |  9 Cool Things
4.  My daughter and I actually own these two bags!  They are the Very Bradley Classic Navy Tote and the Classic Navy Mini Crossbody Satchel.  Both my daughter and I carry these bags without the removable shoulder straps.  The tote is quite large and can hold so much, a perfect bag if you need to carry a camera insert for your D-SLR, carry all your children's hats and mittens, or just about anything else.  You can see a photo of our actual bags here.


LeSportsac Mother-Daughter Weekender Duffel Bags  |  9 Cool Things
5.  These are the LeSportsac Essential Large Weekender and Essential Small Weekender.  How perfect are these for a mother-daughter weekend getaway or just a family trip to the gym?  This pair is shown in the LeSportsac Autumn Floral Black print.  I chose this print to share because it's feminine, yet neutral.  There are many other designs to choose from, including gingham, fun icon prints, dots, solids, and more.


Guess Mother-Daughter Domed Satchel Handbags  |  9 Cool Things
6.  Here we have the Guess Korry Dome Satchel and the Guess Korry Mini.  Both are shown in Cognac Saffiano Faux Leather, but they also come in Black.  I think this is an adorable pair.  The classic color and lines make these bags a wardrobe staple for both mother and daughter.  My daughter and I own matching Guess coated canvas totes, and we've been extremely happy with the quality of our Guess handbags.


Betsey Johnson Mother-Daughter Matchng Handbags  |  9 Cool Things
7.  Although I don't own any Betsey Johnson handbags, my daughter owns a crossbody wallet.  She just loves the girly style of Betsey Johnson's bags, so I had to include at least one pair on this list.  Although the Betsey Johnson Be Mine Pocket Dome Satchel and the Be Mine Medium Backpack are not identical, they just go so well together.  From the quilted heart pattern to the prominent grosgrain bow, these bags make the perfect set in Bone/Black.


Coach Mother-Daughter Signature Satchel Handbags  |  9 Cool Things
8.  I own several Coach handbags, but my daughter does not own any yet.  She is still a little too young, however, if you have a teen who is ready for their first Coach bag, then here is a classic looking bag to consider.  These are the Coach Signature Bennett Satchel and the Mini Bennett Crossbody Satchel in Brown/Black.  I just love these because they truly are identical and would add a touch of sophistication to any outfit for both mother and daughter.


Dooney & Bourke Mother-Daughter Handbags  |  9 Cool Things
9.  What list would be complete without Dooney & Bourke?  I actually only own one Dooney & Bourke tote bag, and have watched my daughter oooh and aaah at a few she's seen at Macy's.  I came across these floral print coated canvas bags, and just had to include them in my list.  Like the Betsey Johnson bags in #7, the Dooney & Bourke Somerset Floral Zip Satchel and Somerset Floral Crossbody bags in Hot Pink are not identical, but coordinate so well.  Such a pretty and feminine pair!


NOTE:  Please check the measurements of each bag prior to making purchasing decisions.  The proportions of the two bags in each pair are only estimated in the images above, and may not represent the exact scale of one bag compared to the other.

Which handbag duo above is your favorite?  Tell us in a comment here.

9 Cool Gift Ideas for Buffy the Vampire Slayer Fans


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Having been a huge Buffy the Vampire Slayer fan for a long time, I have been meaning to compile a list of cool Buffy-themed gift ideas.  Of course, I found that it was impossible to choose only 9 things, so I may compile additional lists dedicated to each Buffy character in the future.  Personally, I don't own many Buffy items aside from a couple of t-shirts and the Complete Buffy Series on DVD.  I did recently buy #9 on this list and just had to be sure I included it, as it has a pretty high cool factor for a Buffy geek like me.

'Demons of the Hellmouth' Buffy the Vampire Slayer book by Nancy Holder  |  9 Cool Things
 1.  Demons of the Hellmouth: A Guide for Slayers by Rupert Giles -  This illustrated guide is written by award-winning author, Nancy Holder, from the point of view of Buffy's watcher, Rupert Giles.  I have enjoyed many Buffy and Angel tie-in novels by Holder in the past.  This unique book includes handwritten notes from Buffy and Willow, which will surely be appreciated by true Buffy fans.

Another book to consider along these lines is Buffy the Vampire Slayer:  The Monster Book by Christopher Golden, another well-known Buffy tie-in novelist.


Buffy the Vampire Slayer Canvas Print  |  9 Cool Things
 2.  Buffy the Vampire Slayer Canvas Print - This canvas print is offered in a modest 18"x12" size, but the artwork is still impressive.  It depicts Buffy's character towards the end of the series when she was more mysterious and dark, rather than the younger bright-eyed school girl version.  This would make an affordable, but unique Buffy-themed gift, as it is currently priced at under $30 including the cost of shipping.


'Sunnydale High Yearbook' Buffy the Vampire Slayer book by Christopher Golden and Nancy Holder  |  9 Cool Things
 3. The Sunnydale High Yearbook - This book, written by Christopher Golden and Nancy Holder, includes 32 full-color pages of your favorite Buffy high school moments.  It is a great way to mark the major milestone of graduation for both the show's characters and the show.  I just ordered a very good used copy of this book for myself and can't wait to receive it.  New copies of this 1999 yearbook are still available to purchase for gift-giving.


Buffy the Vampire Slayer 12-inch Angel with Sword Sculpture |  9 Cool Things
 4.  Buffy 12" Angel Statue - This statue created by artist, Steve Varner, shows Angel with sword in hand.  I believe this is the moment when Angelus transforms back into Angel right before Buffy is forced to kill him.  This defining moment changed Buffy's character forever.  This limited edition sculpture comes with a certificate of authenticity on the base.


Premiere issue of the Official Buffy the Vampire Slayer Magazine cover print - March 2002 Issue |  9 Cool Things
 5.  Buffy the Vampire Slayer Magazine Cover Print - Did you know there was an official Buffy the Vampire Slayer magazine?  This is a poster print of the premiere issue's cover from March 2002.  Just pop it into a basic frame and this print is ready for gift-giving!


Magic Box Buffy the Vampire Slayer T-Shirt by independent artist Jazz Beitler  |  9 Cool Things
6.    The Magic Box Artist T-Shirt - I actually own a different Magic Box t-shirt, but am considering buying this one too.  This colorful design was created by independent artist, Jazz Beitler, and reads: 'Magic Box - Your One-Stop Spot to Shop for all your Occult Needs', followed by the store's address and phone number.  Likely, only Buffy fans will recognize what the Magic Box is, which adds to the appeal.  This shirt design is available on a variety of t-shirt and hoodie styles with many colors to choose from.


 7.  Buffy the Vampire Slayer Shower Curtain - If you are seeking the unexpected Buffy-themed gift, this is it!  This is a tastefully done shower curtain depicting a more mature slayer that includes the verbiage about the chosen one at the bottom.  This gift is a must for the die-hard Buffy fan who has everything.


 8.  Spike's Leather Trench Coat - This is a genuine leather trench coat inspired by the one worn by Spike on Buffy the Vampire Slayer.  If you would like to treat a Buffy fan in your life to something special, this is the perfect gift idea.  The sizes range from X-Small to XXX-Large, so it would make a great gift for a man or a woman.


'The Making of a Slayer' Buffy the Vampire Slayer book by Nancy Holder  |  9 Cool Things
9.  Buffy: The Making of a Slayer - As previously mentioned, I own this book by Nancy Holder.  It is a wonderful gift for any Buffy fan because it is much more than just a book.  Commemorating the Buffy the Vampire Slayer TV series' 15th anniversary, in addition to a hardcover book filled with more than 120 images, this gift includes the 13 artifacts pictured above.  All of this is presented in a beautiful slipcase also shown above.  The cool factor of the artifacts is pretty high and would delight any Buffy fan.

What Buffy the Vampire Slayer gift ideas would you add to this list?  Tell us in a comment here and we may include it in our next Buffy-themed list.

9 Cool Printable Scavenger Hunts for Kids


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9 Cool Scavenger Hunt Activities for Kids  |  9 Cool Things
Whether your children are suffering from the summer doldrums or it's a rainy weekend day, it's nice to have some activities on-hand that don't require you to spend money.  Scavenger hunts are always fun!  You can offer prizes or make teams to get the adults involved.  Scavenger hunts are even fun for an only child to complete solo.


9 Free Printable Scavenger Hunts for Kids . . .
  1. Outdoor Adventure Scavenger Hunt - This printable scavenger hunt has fun graphics and is perfect for use in your backyard, at the local park, or while camping.
  2. Use Your Senses Scavenger Hunt - This scavenger hunt can be used almost anywhere.  It asks that the hunters find items using their sight, hearing, and touch.  What a great way for a child to explore his or her surroundings!
  3. Road Trip Alphabet Pictures Scavenger Hunt - This printable makes a book your child can fill out during a road trip.  What a smart way to keep your little one busy and entertained during a long car ride!
  4. Colors Scavenger Hunt - This printable is perfect for a child or a whole classroom who is learning their colors, and can be used indoors or out!
  5. Vocabulary Words Scavenger Hunt Bookmarks - These printable bookmarks are a great way to challenge young readers, who may usually just skim over unfamiliar words while reading.
  6. Around the House Scavenger Hunt - This printable scavenger hunt includes a fun list of things to find around the house, such as "something shiny and new"!
  7. Park Scavenger Hunt - This adorable printable asks your child to find a list of things that can usually be found at a park or playground.  What a cool way to add some extra fun to a playdate at the park!
  8. ABC Scavenger Hunt - This printable scavenger hunt is both educational and fun.  Like the Colors Scavenger Hunt, this activity is perfect for a child or a whole classroom of children who are learning their ABC's!
  9. Nature Scavenger Hunt - This activity doesn't actually have a printable, but is super-easy, fun, and free.  All you need is an empty egg carton!
What other types of scavenger hunts have you organized for your children?  Share your ideas with us in a comment here!

I received permission from the sites listed above to include their fun scavenger hunt ideas in this list of 9 cool things.

9 Cool Non-Food Easter Basket Fillers


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I've heard a lot of chatter from parents about needing non-food ideas for Easter baskets this past week.  Like myself, they just do not want to fill their children's Easter baskets with knickknacks that will be forgotten in a matter of days.  Below are some ideas I've used this year and past years for my own children's Easter baskets.  These items are also great for stocking stuffers.  If you haven't finished getting everything for your child's basket, most of these items are available with Amazon 2-Day Prime Shipping (with Prime membership or minimum purchase).

9 Cool Non-Food Ideas for Fun Easter Baskets . . .

  1. Tongue Twister Books - Tongue twisters are lots of fun for children of all ages.  They are especially perfect for children who struggle with reading because they are usually short and are meant to be read over and over again.


  2. Waterweek Water Bottles - My children own several sets of these bottles.  They are all colorful and fun.  They started with the 10oz bottles when they were younger and graduated to the 16oz size. These bottles are dishwasher safe and BPA free.  You can even buy sport tops for the bottles to replace the regular screw on caps.


  3. Small Sketchbooks - Somehow doodles become something more when they're done in a child's own personal sketchbook.  Encourage your child to draw by picking up their very own sketchbook whenever the mood or inspiration strikes.  Keep their artwork safe in a sturdy sketchbook so that they can look back at their work for years to come.


  4. Stress Balls - Stress balls and other fidgets are being used in classrooms more and more.  In addition to stress relief, sometimes they help children think.  I included some stress balls in my children's Easter baskets this year so they would stop stealing mine.


  5. Crazy Aaron's Putty - Putty is a common item to find in Easter baskets, but Crazy Aaron's Putty has fun varieties and cool colors.  Some of the types of putty you'll find from this brand are metallic, glow-in-the-dark, magnetic, black-light, and heat-sensitive color changing putty.


  6. Bookmarks For Kids - If you'll be including a chapter book in your child's basket this year, why not tuck a cool bookmark inside it?  Fun bookmarks encourage children to read.  Also, if your children are anything like mine, they are always misplacing their bookmarks and can never find one when they need one.  There are all types of bookmarks that would be fun for children, such as DIY bookmarks and magnetic bookmarks.


  7. Colorful Erasable Pens - Erasable pens have come a long way since I was a child.  Now children can write and draw in pen without worrying about crossing out or starting all over again.  These pens even come in lots of fun colors.  I included some in our children's Easter baskets this year, as well as in their stockings last year.  The Pilot FriXion pens shown below are erasable, retractable, and also refillable.


  8. Kids' Watches - Having a watch helps children be more responsible in regards to keeping track of time.  Some watches are designed to help young children learn how to tell time and some even come with timers, so you or your child can set the timer when there's just 30 minutes left until bedtime or only 20 minutes of TV to go. 


  9. Color Your Own Playing Cards - This is something my daughter found in her Christmas stocking last year.  She just loved it!  Coloring the cards is a long term activity, so it is a gift that lasts.  Your child can color one or more each day.  When he or she is all done, the result is a beautiful deck of licensed character cards that can be used to play your child's favorite card games.


What cool Easter basket ideas would you add to this list?  Share your ideas with us in a comment here.