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Suri eats turkey with Tom in London

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Suri Cruise flew to London to spend Thanksgiving with her Dad, beginning the first of many awkward holidays with non-custodial Tom.

Suri and Tom at Disney

Suri Cruise had a typical holiday for a kid from a divorced family this year: She celebrated Thanksgiving early with her mom, then flew to spend the actual holiday with her dad, Tom Cruise.

The 6-year-old had one big dinner with her mom and friends in New York on Sunday, then flew to London on Tuesday to see her dad and "enjoy the holiday with him," the New York Daily News reported.

Tom Cruise suing for $50 million for claims about Suri>>

Now that is an enjoyable holiday! You have a big dinner on a weird day when no one else is doing it , and then jump on a plane to fly many hours to your dad, who, the New York Daily News reports, hasn't seen you in three months.

Yes, that makes for some solid dinner-table conversation with a small child, all right.

Meanwhile, Just Jared reports Katie Holmes flew home to Toledo, Ohio, to be with her own folks. Hard not to extrapolate that Katie was lonely and bummed out without her daughter.

Suri and Tom Cruise have been video chatting>>

And hard not to imagine the awkwardness Suri must be feeling in London, away from her friends, her mom, her stuff. Better get used to it, Suri, because this is what "visitation" is all about.

In other Cruise news, in October Tom filed a $50 million suit against two magazines that accused him of "abandoning" Suri while he worked.

Image courtesy Eric Gonzales/WENN.com

What my kids taught me about business

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A 15-year career, two degrees and a world of experience could never prepare me for the lessons my kids have taught me about business — from the true value of my time to the importance of patience, perspective and perseverance.
Jennifer Chidester and family

A 15-year career, two degrees and a world of experience could never prepare me for the lessons my kids have taught me about business — from the true value of my time to the importance of patience, perspective and perseverance.

Valuable Lessons in
work/life balance

Somewhere in my 30s I found myself comfortably settled into my career, feeling like I had finally got it all together. Then, I had children. Having kids not only taught me that I still had so much to learn about life, love, relationships and motherhood — my kids had a lesson or two to teach me about business too!

The true value of my time

Lesson learned: Not on their time. Since I work in public relations, where time is billed by the hour, I’ve always been mindful of what an hour of my time is perceived to be worth on paper. Now, as a parent, I value my time differently. I've learned that every hour is precious and that no amount of money in the world can replace an uninterrupted hour with them. I’ve learned to choose my projects more wisely and be more mindful of the workload I take on. I’ve discovered that while an extra hour or two of overtime might make a dent in a project, it’s rarely worth taking away the few hours I have with my kids at night before bedtime. While it takes some routine-shifting and a lot more coffee, instead of working on their time, I get up early and knock out work while they’re still sleeping.

Patience and perspective

Lesson learned: Not their problem. When you add the pressures of work and deadlines to the already-stressful job of parenting, patience can run incredibly thin. I’ll admit that I’ve lost it when I've had kids tugging on each leg, toys flying in every direction and clients calling for deliverables on deadlines. Sometimes it feels like a super-human balancing act, but what I’ve learned is that what I choose to take on is not my kids’ fault… nor should it be their problem. The first time I heard myself actually say, ”Mommy's on a deadline!,” I realized the weight of my stressful world should never be on their little shoulders, even when our two worlds often collide since I have a home office. I’ve also learned the value of deep breaths, stepping away and putting problems into perspective. If no one will spontaneously combust if I wait five minutes to return a work call, stopping to give one of my kids a minute of my uninterrupted attention not only validates for them how important they are to me, it allows me some time to gather myself and get perspective on whatever work issue I’m tackling.

Perseverance and the value of hard work

Lesson learned: My hard work pays off for their future later. Before I was married and had kids, salary was a number. Now that my career supports my family, that salary has become our lifeline. As a parent, I’m more determined than ever to be successful — not just for the sake of chalking up career wins, but to build a better life for my kids and give them opportunities I watched my mom have to work two and three jobs for. While it may mean starting my day at 6 a.m. or sacrificing some me time, if I can be half the example of hard work and perseverance for my kids that my mom was to me when I was growing up, it will all have been worth it!

More on work and life balance

Work-life balance trumps money
Working Mom 3.0: Co-parent for work-life balance
Working moms guide to busy mornings

Did Guyana protests scare Chris Brown away?

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Reports surfaced Thursday that the aggro singer canceled a Guyana gig after protests, but his people claim otherwise. Was Chris Brown trying to avoid the embarrassing protests that have been happening in Europe?

Chris Brown at the Nokia Awards

Bad-press magnet Chris Brown has backed out of a stadium concert in Guyana set for Dec. 26, amidst rumors that the defection's due to local protests over Brown's assault on Rihanna.

The Huffington Post and other news outlets reported that Brown canceled the gig after he drew criticism from women's rights groups and politicians in Guyana.

Earlier this month, Swedish protesters defaced posters promoting Brown's concert in Stockholm, pasting images of Rihanna's beaten face over Brown's. In September, British protesters put stickers on Brown's CDs in stores stating "Do not buy this album! This man beats women."

Chris Brown is a violent woman-hater... for Halloween>>

Then Hits and Jams, promoters of the planned Guyana show, posted an announcement Wednesday that Brown, 23, had canceled his appearance.

"Chris Brown's Management team expressed concerns over recent media reports about protests over the artiste's intended visit to Guyana and his performance here," read the announcement, still up at Hits and Jams' website.

"The management team in a correspondence to HJ Entertainment said they do not feel comfortable at this stage allowing the multi award winning singer to come to Guyana as they have been following reports in the local and international press about the protests over his Guyana appearance," it further read, referencing the Europe protest and speculating that Brown's management was trying to avoid similar problems in Guyana.

Fake Chris Brown files hilarious lawsuit against Rihanna>>

Brown's representative told E! News that "this concert was never confirmed. The promoter is being untruthful."

Meanwhile, Rihanna and Chris are reportedly back together, having recorded a duet on Rihanna's latest album, and exchanging kisses in public.

Brown pled guilty to felony assault in June 2009 and was sentenced to a five-year probation.

Image courtesy Adriana M. Barraza/WENN.com

Your kid saw you having sex: Now what?

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Let’s face it — sharing living quarters with the younger generation can be a libido-killer. By the time they are old enough to stay up past 7 p.m. and get up to use the bathroom at night, chances are you’ll get caught in the act. Even if they know all about the birds and the bees, seeing a live performance isn’t high on a kid’s wish list. What should you say, and how?

Let’s face it — sharing living quarters with the younger generation can be a libido-killer. By the time they are old enough to stay up past
7 p.m. and get up to use the bathroom at night, chances are you’ll get caught in the act.

why mommy and daddy were wrestling

Even if they know all about the birds and the bees, seeing a live performance isn’t high on a kid’s wish list. What should you say, and how?

Nothing is less romantic than realizing — in the heat of passion — that there is a little person in your room. One of the hazards of parenting is the almost complete lack of privacy you have as a couple once the kiddos get older. Remodeling and moving the master bedroom to the opposite side of the house is tempting, but it won't solve the problem. Sharing living quarters with anyone — whether it's your kids or your elderly mother — means your passion may become a main attraction.

What do I say?

So you looked at the foot of your bed and saw a little one standing there — what do you say? "First apologize that they were privy to a situation that was meant to be private between parents," says Dr. Richard Horowitz, parenting coach and author of Family Centered Parenting. This is not the time to make them feel badly for what they witnessed.

"This is not your springboard into talking about sex for the very first time."

"As parents, sometimes our first inclination is to ignore it or freak out," shares Maureen Clancy, LCSW and author of The Super Soothing Companion. "Ignoring it and/or freaking out, however, tells your kids that what they saw was so bad that you can't even talk about it," says Clancy. "This response will likely cause your kids to feel confused and ashamed."

Oh, the embarrassing things kids say>>

How much detail?

Reinforce that Mommy and Daddy being physical with each other is one of the ways adults who love each other express that love," adds Horowitz. "This is easier if there have been previous discussions about the nature of sexuality." If it was the teenager who heard you , a simple apology is most likely enough.

The level of detail depends in large part on how much about the birds and bees you have already discussed. This is not your springboard into talking about sex for the very first time. Clancy suggests to start by simply finding out what they saw. "For younger kids, say something like 'First I want you to know that you didn't do anything wrong. We were having special time that's meant just for us.' Then ask if they saw anything that was confusing, and answer as honestly as you feel you can, using words that they can understand," Clancy adds.

When do you stop letting your kids see you naked?>>

Moving on

This may be the perfect time to start ensuring proper levels of privacy for everyone in the family. Clancy says, "You might say, 'How about we start a new rule in our family. If our doors are closed, how about we knock and ask if we can come in. How does that sound?' Most kids are satisfied with that." This brings home the message that everyone deserves some private time, not just Mom and Dad.

Handled the right way, being caught in the act can lead to honest, open discussion about privacy and mature relationships — but you still may want to add a lock to your bedroom door.

More parenting tips

Teaching responsibility
Is your child ready to stay home without a babysitter?

Keeping kids safe in an online world

Elmo in, Snoopy out at Thanksgiving Parade

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Viewers of the Macy's Thanksgiving Day Parade were surprised to see an Elmo balloon floating along, considering his voice is in disgrace. But Sesame Street seems determined to, heh heh, rise above the haters.

Kermit balloon at Thanksgiving Day parade

Elmo endures: a giant floating balloon of the figure appeared with other Sesame Street pals in the annual Macy's Thanksgiving Day Parade in New York City, despite the red-hot bucket of troubles voice of Elmo Kevin Clash has landed himself in recently.

"I wouldn’t really expect anything other than bright and all-smiles from the PBS bunch, but if dark overtones showed themselves this year after the recent shocking news about one of their puppeteers, I couldn't blame them," wrote Entertainment Weekly reporter Emily Rome. "But there was no sign of that at all as puppets and humans alike sang, 'Oh, I gotta keep my head up high / Nothing's gonna get us down.'"

Apt. And yet, icky.

Voice of Elmo hit with another sex suit>>

In other parade news, the Snoopy balloon was absent. There's been a Snoopy balloon in every Thanksgiving Day parade since 1968, but this year Snoopy was downgraded to a "Snoopy's Dog House" float with Woodstock, Linus and Lucy. No Charlie Brown? Not on the float — he's a balloon this year. And in case you're wondering who Woodstock is, it's the little yellow bird that hangs out with Snoopy. Yeah, I forgot too.

As in other years, Mickey, Kermit, Sonic the Hedgehog and the Pillsbury Doughboy floated along the parade route.

New balloons this year included a Papa Smurf, Hello Kitty piloting a plane and Elf on the Shelf, the appearance of which doubtless made many parents clap their hands to their heads in horror: Elf on the Shelf is a new-ish family game/torture ritual that forces parents to hide the Elf on the Shelf in a new spot each night of December. Kids love it. Parents hate it. Thanks, Macy's, for reminding the kids it's Elf on the Shelf time again!

Elmo puppeteer embroiled in underage sex scandal>>

Meanwhile, the parade itself is under fire, and not just for its balloon choices: Slate reported this week that the earth's supplies of helium will be depleted in 40 years if we continue our current rate of consumption. And we don't know how to make more. Kinda takes the "yay!" out of the parade, huh?

Image courtesy Ivan Nikolov/WENN.com

Gift ideas for kids with Sensory Processing Disorder

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Wondering what to buy for a child with Sensory Processing Disorder? Don’t stress out. Kids with sensory issues love toys that stimulate without being over-stimulating. Try one of these four fun and therapeutic toys.
Holiday gifts for kids with SPD
Child on rocking horse

Wondering what to buy for a child with Sensory Processing Disorder? Don’t stress out. Kids with sensory issues love toys that stimulate without being over-stimulating. Try one of these four fun and therapeutic toys.

Toys that feel good

If you're not sure what Sensory Processing Disorder is, don't feel guilty. Even parents raising kids with Sensory Processing Disorder, or SPD, are often overwhelmed by the scope of the disorder.

Every child with SPD presents unique challenges, but these four gifts will help you get an idea of the types of toys that provide therapeutic fun for kids with Sensory Processing Disorder or sensory issues.

Hone fine motor skills

Crayola Explosion Glow Board

Many children with sensory issues struggle with fine motor skills. As with any skill, practice makes perfect. Developmental toys that encourage children to practice fine motor tasks help incorporate therapy into playtime. Shop for toys that involve precision, such as Lego building sets or beading projects. Art sets are also great for fine motor skills, especially for children who need to work on proper pencil grip.

Try: The Crayola Color Explosion Glow Board from Crayola helps fine motor skills.

Develop gross motor skills

Twister

Occupational therapy for kids with Sensory Processing Disorder consists of therapeutic play to help kids improve sensory integration. Gross motor skills include simple activities like jumping, running and catching a ball. Shop for toys that get kids active and moving. Skip anything too complicated and look for basic items such as large bouncy balls, dance music for kids and play forts.

Try: Go old school with Twister for a game that encourages kids to move and cooperate.

Discover games that develop social skills in special needs kids>>

Stimulate the senses

Scooter board

When you're shopping for toys that promote sensory integration, try checking in with parents first to get some basic ideas. What one child finds soothing, another might find distressing. You don't have frame the question with mention of the child's sensory issues. Just ask what she likes and dislikes. Mini trampolines, rocking toys and swings are usually great and very therapeutic for kids with SPD.

Try:Scooter Boards help kids develop balance and spatial awareness.

Calm and soothe

Buddy the Monkey

Have you ever felt fidgety or bitten your nails? Many kids with SPD fidget as a means of tactile stimulation or to calm and focus. Look for toys that kids can fidget with, like small moving puzzle toys that spin or twist. In this case, skip purely therapeutic toys like chewable jewelry that might embarrass a child when presented as a gift. For younger kids, shop for plush toys with weight and texture.

Try: The Cozy Plush Buddy the Monkey can be warmed up in the microwave at bedtime.

Learn what parents of special needs kids wish you knew>>

More on special needs kids

5 Ways to prepare for child's IEP meeting
Signs of autism and everyday life with an autistic child
Special needs kids and well siblings

Black Friday fashion deals less than $25

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Keeping up with the latest fall fashions can cost a pretty penny unless you master the art of buying at the right time. Fashion apparel, shoes and accessories galore will be hitting rock-bottom prices on Black Friday. Now’s your chance to stock up without breaking the bank.
black shopping bag
Black Friday deals

Frugal fashion

Keeping up with the latest fall fashions can cost a pretty penny unless you master the art of buying at the right time. Fashion apparel, shoes and accessories galore will be hitting rock-bottom prices on Black Friday. Now’s your chance to stock up without breaking the bank.

Apt 9 Sweater Jacket

Apt 9 sweater jacket

This open-front statement piece is breezy enough for the spring and easy to layer during the winter. It’s chic for both day and night looks and is a versatile add-on to any outfit. Find this at Kohl’s.

Old Navy Jeans

Famous jeans

Old Navy has five great denim fits to choose from; the dreamer, flirt, diva, rock star or sweetheart. With a variety of washes, spunky colors, skinnies and more, you can easily find a pair to match your personality. Find this at Old Navy.

Rampage Boots & Booties

Rampage boots and booties

Boots and booties are the best investments for your wardrobe. Rule of thumb: The simpler the style, the better the investment, because boots never go out of style. Find this at Belk.

Gemstone rings with Diamond Accents in Sterling Silver

Gemstone rings with diamond accents in sterling silver

With savings of more than $100, this deal is clearly worth every last dime. You can’t go wrong with gems and diamonds in your fashion accessory arsenal. Also comes in ruby, amethyst, and white and blue sapphire. Find this at Sears.


Designer Fashion Jewelry, Handbags and Wallets

Designer fashion jewelry, handbags and wallets

Liz Claiborne, East 5th, Worlington and Nicole Miller for less than $25? Can you say, "All over it"? Bright pops of color are essentials for spicing up fall and winter wear, and what better way to do it than with designer brands? Find this at JC Penney.

Tie Waist Cowl-Neck Poncho

Tie-waist cowlneck poncho

Cozy up with a multi-colored poncho with a swanky cowlneck accent. Paired with leggings, jeans or tights, the loose-fit sweater is perfect if you've added a few holiday pounds. Find this at New York & Co.

More on Black Friday

Amazon Black Friday deals week
H&M Black Friday deals
Walmart workers threaten to strike on Black Friday

Gluten-free Friday: Cherry tomato focaccia

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This recipe for cherry tomato focaccia is easy to make and perfect when you're looking for something a little out-of-the ordinary.

Cherry tomato focaccia

Not quite a pizza, but pretty close, focaccia is a flat bread typically topped with fresh herbs and olive oil instead of tomato sauce and melted cheese. Serve it along with a fresh green salad or as a side to a main dish. Better yet, prepare it as the appetizer for part of a festive, Italian-inspired meal.

Cherry tomato focaccia

Serves 4

Ingredients:

For the dough

  • 2-1/4 cups gluten-free all-purpose baking flour
  • 1 packet active dry yeast
  • 2 teaspoons xanthan gum
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 2/3 cup water
  • 1/4 olive oil
  • 1 egg
  • 1 tablespoon honey
  • 1/2 teaspoon cider vinegar

For the toppings

  • 4 ounces cherry tomatoes, cut in half
  • 2 sprigs fresh rosemary, more to taste
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil, divided
  • 1/4 teaspoon sea salt, more to taste
  • 1/8 teaspoon ground black pepper
  • 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese

Directions:

For the dough

  1. Preheat your oven to 450 degrees F., and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
  2. Add the dry ingredients to a large bowl and whisk them together. Gradually mix in the wet ingredients, and beat with and electric mixer until combined.
  3. If you need to add a bit more water or flour at this point, do so in small increments.
  4. Knead the dough a bit in the bowl, then place it on the parchment-lined baking sheet.
  5. Use your hands to spread the dough out into a nine-inch disc , about one-half-inch thick. Cover the dough with a thin, damp towel and let it sit for 15-20 minutes.
  6. Use your fingers to press small indentations into the dough, all around the surface.
  7. Brush the dough with one tablespoon of olive oil. Add the garlic, tomatoes, salt, pepper and rosemary, then drizzle with the remaining oil.
  8. Bake for 12-15 minutes, or until the dough is lightly golden.
  9. Remove from the oven and sprinkle with the Parmesan cheese and serve.

Enjoy homemade focaccia this week!

More gluten-free recipes

Artichoke-spinach frittata
Warm lentil salad with grilled portabella mushrooms
Beefy bean soup


TV's sexiest men: We're thankful for these guys all year

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We're not saying Tatum isn't a hottie . All we're saying is that there are a lot of delicious guys in Hollywood... especially on television. Take a look:

Sexiest TV guys: Jon Hamm, Damian Lewis and Alexander SkarsgardJon Hamm

The Mad Men star is the sexiest man alive. Period. Maybe it's because he looks like a better-looking Ken doll in a suit... and he's always in a suit. Or, maybe it's the sassy look Don Draper makes when Roger Sterling is being petulant. It might also be his incredible sense of humor that shines during interviews or in SNL and award show skits. Whatever it is, Jon Hamm makes us swoon. Quick! Someone get the fainting couch!

Damian Lewis

The ginger ex-terrorist-playing actor made People's Sexiest list, but he just wasn't close enough to the top for us. As one of the stars of Homeland, Lewis plays a former MIA Marine. While we don't get to see him with his shirt off very often, even in just a t-shirt or undershirt you can see the man is cut. Perhaps just as important: Lewis only plays an American. He's actually very English. Yum!

Alexander Skarsgard

Skarsgard was all over the press when True Blood premiered. News flash: He still exists and he's still delectable. Playing the part of Viking vampire Sheriff Eric Northman, the Swedish stud is one dark and powerful creature. That icy gaze can sure melt your heart, too. Plus, if you think he's hot on True Blood, you should see him in camo on HBO's mini-series, Generation Kill. He plays Iceman, who is the strong, silent type. Those are the best.

Grey's Anatomy's Jesse WilliamsJesse Williams

Jesse Williams is quite possibly the only reason many of us are still watching Grey's Anatomy. His character, Dr. Jackson Avery, is currently in a relationship with the incredibly annoying April, which makes it a little harder to watch. But he's still topless a lot, so it's worth it. Jesse Williams is, without a doubt, the best thing to happen to Grey's in years. Williams and his co-star Justin Chambers are way cuter than McDreamy and McSteamy.

New Girl's Jake JohnsonJake Johnson

Of New Girl's cast, People picked Max Greenfield as their sexiest guy. That's a shame, because the guy behind Nick Miller is good-looking, too. Plus, Johnson is funny... even when he's not playing the adorably surly Nick. Not only did he play Jesus in one of the Harold and Kumar movies, he was also in Get Him to The Greek and the lady friendly, Ashton Kutcher-starring No Strings Attached. While we're on the subject of New Girl: Lamorne Morris is cuter than Greenfield, too.

Jimmy Fallon at the Emmy AwardsJimmy Fallon

It's not just that Jimmy Fallon is the youngest guy on late night , he's also the hottest and the funniest. Our favorite Fallon moments include slow-jamming with President Obama, any time he sings and his roles in Whip it! and Almost Famous. Leno and Letterman were both geeky looking in their younger days and never really grew out of it. Jimmy Fallon is really cute. This is great news for us, since we'll hopefully grow old with him still on television.

Images courtesy of WENN.com

More Hotties

It's official: Channing Tatum is the Sexiest Man Alive
Man Candy Mondays: Matt Bomer
Man Candy Mondays: John Krasinski

Halle Berry's ex arrested in turkey day brawl

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Gabriel Aubry plays dirty on Thanksgiving Day as he picks a fight with Halle Berry's fiance, Olivier Martinez.

GabrielAubryArrested

The holidays are often a difficult time for families and it looks like Halle Berry's Thanksgiving definitely fell into that category. Gabriel Aubry, Berry's former boyfriend, dropped off their daughter, Nahla, at his ex's house after a day of turkey festivities. From there, things quickly went downhill.

The handoff of 4-year-old Nahla was executed by Aubry and Berry's current fiance, actor Olivier Martinez. According to TMZ, the two men exchanged heated words with Martinez telling the former model, "We have to move on."

At that point, Aubry threw the first punch and the physical altercation escalated until the Unfaithful star was able to pin Nahla's father to the ground. The fight left both men injured and they were taken to an area hospital. Martinez injured his hand as well as sustaining some bruising and neck injuries. Aubry was examined for a head injury, broken rib and several facial contusions.

Since Berry's ex-boyfriend initiated the brawl, he was arrested for battery and released on $20,000 bail. He already has an upcoming court date on Dec. 13 to face those charges.

The former couple has been battling for custody over the last two years with Berry recently losing a fight to bring her daughter to France full time. She cited privacy issues and protection from the paparazzi as reasons for the move, but it seems that she wants thousands of miles to separate her family from Aubry.

No word on how this will affect the custody case, but People has confirmed that a restraining order has been issued. The emergency protective order requires Aubry to stay at least 100 yards away from Berry, their daughter and Martinez.

Berry and Martinez have been engaged since 2011.

Image courtesy of WENN.com

Small Business Saturday: Shop small, give big

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How about a good old-fashioned celebration to honor the mom 'n’ pop shops in your neighborhood? Small Business Saturday breezes in, smack-dab in the middle of Black Friday and Cyber Monday.

Woman store owner

With a plan to support small businesses across the nation, American Express launched SBS as an annual holiday in 2010. Small businesses created 65 percent of net new jobs in the 17-year period ending in 2009, according to the US Small Business Administration. In this tough economic climate, it is more important than ever to shop at the small businesses that keep our communities thriving. Here are five ways you can help your local retailers stay in business, this Saturday and all year long:

shop smallGet connected with your small businesses

Find small businesses near you with the Shop Small Map. You can search by city name, zip code or business name. Next, stay connected with your small businesses by following their social feeds on pages such as Facebook, Twitter and Instagram. Most retailers reward their fans by posting their latest deals and merchandise.

Spread the word

Word of mouth is notably the oldest and best form of advertisement. If there’s a local diner, boutique, hair salon, beauty spa or coffee shop that you visit frequently, tell your friends about the experience. The easiest way to do this is by taking a picture and posting it to social sharing sites with a few words about your experience.

Check-ins and reviews

When you're shopping locally, use the "check-in" feature on your Facebook or Foursquare mobile app. To discuss a more in-depth experience, use websites such as Yelp, Yahoo and Google to find the businesses and share your thoughts in the review section. Reviews are public and offer detailed information to others seeking similar products and services.

Shop locals online

Websites like Etsy.com and Tophatter.com have emerged to bring local retailers an online marketplace. Several small businesses have used these sites to sell unique art pieces, handmade crafts and custom designs to customers across the nation. Jasika Scruggs, a small business owner in Baltimore, notes that the majority of her clients are from Los Angeles. Scruggs makes mini hats that are custom-made for each customer.

“It’s easy to get carried away with this, but I love brainstorming with my customers. I love seeing their dresses for their best occasions and their wild, dreamy, outrageous inspiration photos. I love hunting for the perfect feather and fabric, and the most whimsical vintage brooch.”

Pass it on

You may find that some of your favorite retailers don't participate in SBS. In an effort to raise awareness, let them know about the free advertising and marketing resources available online.

More on shopping

Top websites for Cyber Monday shopping info
Hot gifts for the coffee addict
Funny gifts for the clean freak

5 Cyber Monday scam-free shopping tips

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Cyber Monday is the biggest online shopping day of the year! With great sales some of the amazing deals seem too good to be true. Follow these tips to protect yourself from scams while shopping.
Woman shopping online

Get steals, not scammed

Cyber Monday is the biggest online shopping day of the year! With great sales some of the amazing deals seem too good to be true. Follow these tips to protect yourself from scams while shopping.

Don't be a shopping fool

Great designer goods come at a cost, but even higher one is when you find out you bought a counterfeit. Shopping online can be tricky but don't let yourself be deceived. Check out these tips and you'll log out of Cyber Monday with great deals and steals!

  • Only buy from authentic websites. You may be tempted to consider low prices only. But if the vendor's site has spelling and grammar mistakes, an amateurish design or a contact form without a legitimate address, email and/or phone number, then proceed with caution.
  • Do your homework. Browse before you buy. Find the products in stores before shopping online so you know exactly what an authentic item looks like. With apparel and accessories, become familiar with logo placement, stitching, country of origin and hardware on the pieces you know are legitimate. You will be better prepared to spot a fake.
  • If the price is too good to be true, it probably is. A few dollars difference is just good bargain hunting, considerable difference in price means you're probably not getting the real deal.
  • Be wary of online auction sites. If the seller is only showing a stock image of the product and no actual photos they have taken, it is most likely a scam. Also look out for the words "factory seconds." For many designers, factory seconds don't exist because they destroy those products that don't match up to the brand's standards.
  • Search engines are your friend: See what people are saying about the website by searching the name of the website along with the words "scam" or "review." If other people are skeptical, you should be too. Also check on the site for a padlock image. This usually indicates the site is verified and secure for safe credit card transactions.

how to spot a fake

For more ways to shop safely online and prevent counterfeiting, check out Harper Bazaar's Fakes are never in Fashion campaign

More online shopping tips

Top websites for Cyber Monday shopping information
Cyber Monday deals at Walmart all week long
Cyber Monday deals at Toys "R" Us

Cyber Monday sales on beauty products

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Cyber Monday is a beautiful thing. From the comfort of your own home, you can get amazing deals on makeup, skin care items and other beauty products with just a few clicks of your mouse.

Woman applying makeup

Beauty Bar

At Beauty Bar, just spend $100 and get $20 off your purchase with the code BBCYBERMONDAY.

Bobbi Brown

If you place an order from Bobbi Brown on Cyber Monday, you'll get five samples of your choice along with free shipping.

The Body Shop

Now through Cyber Monday, almost everything from The Body Shop is on sale for three for $30 .

Dr. Brandt

Save 50 percent on Dr. Brandt's full-sized eye creams on Cyber Monday, and get free shipping. The deals don't end there from Dr. Brandt Skincare. From Nov. 27 through Dec. 2, save 40 percent on select skin care products.

Fekkai

From Black Friday through Cyber Monday, all orders from Fekkai will be 20 percent off with free shipping. Their styling products are amazing!

Lab Series

From Nov. 26 through 30, everything on the entire site is 25 percent off. So stock up on gifts for your guy from Lab Series Skincare for Men.

Laura Mercier

Laura Mercier is having a design-your-own color-palette sale. On Cyber Monday, buy two select shades and receive the third free when purchasing the three-well custom compact, or select four shades and receive the fifth and sixth free in the six-well custom compact.

NARS

Now you can nab your favorite blushes and other makeup from NARS Cosmetics at a discount. On Cyber Monday and Tuesday, all products on the entire website are 20 percent off.

Philosophy

Get a deluxe bonus gift with a purchase of $75 or more from Philosophy on Cyber Monday by using the promo code DELIGHT at checkout. Also save up to 50 percent off select products during their holiday sale.

Shu Uemura

Through Nov. 27, get 20 percent off plus free shipping on all orders of $50 or more from Shu Uemura. Simply use the code WISH2012 upon checkout.

Smashbox

Get 25 percent off orders of $50 or more at Smashbox Cosmetics through Cyber Monday by using the code FRIENDS2012 at checkout. You also get free shipping and samples on every U.S. order.

More about Cyber Monday

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Shopping on Cyber Monday

Cyber Monday is Cyber Week at Walmart

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Walmart isn't waiting until Monday to start the online savings. Many of their Black Friday deals were available online, and the bargains just got bigger with the kickoff of Cyber Week.
Walmart kicks off Cyber Week
Shopping online during Cyber Monday

Walmart isn't waiting until Monday to start the online savings. Many of their Black Friday deals were available online, and the bargains just got bigger with the kickoff of Cyber Week.

Save all week long

Walmart's Cyber Week sale runs from Saturday, Nov. 24 throughout the week.

What's on sale

Just about everything is on sale at Walmart.com during Cyber Week. Here are just a few highlights of the savings:

Up to 40 percent off apparel: This includes clothes for the whole family — men, women and the kids. Even women's plus sizes, men's big-and-tall sizes and baby clothes are on sale. You can find deals on everything from pajamas to shoes and coats to intimates. Check out their list of 100 top apparel gifts under $20 to find a gift for everyone on your list.

Exclusive toy offers: If you're Christmas shopping for the kids, you can find spectacular savings on everything from ride-on toys to dollhouses. Some of the top brands are on sale, including Barbie, Crayola, Fisher-Price, Leapfrog, LEGO, Monster High and more of your favorites.

Up to 40 percent off electronics: If you're still looking for the perfect laptop, tablet, TV, video game system or other gadget, you can find plenty of different special offers at Walmart.com. In addition to the price savings, you get free shipping on electronics during Cyber Week. Plus, if you buy a smartphone, you get a $100 gift card.

One of the top electronics deals at Walmart is a Samsung 55-inch 1080p LED Smart 3D HDTV for $1,498 — a savings of over $1,000. If you're in the market for a new TV, you can shop by screen size to find the best deal for you.

There are thousands of items on sale during Walmart's Cyber Week, so check out Walmart.com to see all the savings.

Whether you're shopping for Christmas gifts or looking for something for yourself, it's a terrific time to shop. Don't wait until Monday because some of the best deals will undoubtedly sell out by then.

More about Cyber Monday

Top websites for Cyber Monday shopping info
5 Ways to save major money on Cyber Monday
Shopping on Cyber Monday

Best online shopping sites for Cyber Monday

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Why stand outside your favorite stores in the cold for the best Black Friday deals when you can do the same thing in the comfort of your home on Cyber Monday? Here are several shopping sites with plenty of amazing deals and no unruly shoppers.
Woman shopping online

Why stand outside your favorite stores in the cold for the best Black Friday deals when you can do the same thing in the comfort of your home on Cyber Monday? Here are several shopping sites with plenty of amazing deals and no unruly shoppers.

Holiday shopping
made easy

Ideeli

A flash-sales site, Ideeli is an exclusive, members-only shopping destination for those seeking the best women's and men's fashions, beauty and home decor at discounted prices. At noon EST, new sales are launched, but for a limited time only, you'll get the best deals for brands such as Gucci, Calvin Klein and True Religion. Although their Cyber Monday deals haven't been made public yet, in the past, Ideeli started the Black Friday sale a week early, followed by a Thanksgiving Surprise sale and a Cyber Monday special. To get access, all you need to do is enter an email address and become a member of the site!

HauteLook

HauteLook is another free members only site that Nordstrom acquired just last year. Every day, new deals on premier brands with discounted prices up to 75 percent off. How are the prices so low, you ask? HauteLook partners up with brands like Missoni, Gucci and American Apparel to get insider access and buys items in bulk. For Cyber Monday, HauteLook is expected to have double the sales. Sign up for HauteLook now and get a head start on the shopping today.

Gilt Groupe

Giuseppe Zanotti, David Yurman and BB Dakota are just a few designers on Gilt, an exclusive shopping site with products at up to 60 percent off retail prices. Gilt not only offers discounts for women's, men's and children's fashions, but they also have deals on restaurants and travel packages. On Cyber Monday 2011, Gilt had free shipping, "Designer Final" flash sales and a special sweepstakes with a prize valued at $15,000. Become a Gilt member now to find out what virtual dooorbusters you have to look forward to come Cyber Monday!

ASOS

Shop overseas with ASOS — no passport necessary! ASOS is a UK site that carries thousands of different international designer brands, including their own namesake line. Every day you can shop their online women's and men's outlets where you can score up to 70 percent off the items you've been swooning over. Sign up for the ASOS newsletter so you'll be in the know about their big Cyber Monday deals!

Rent the Runway

Wish you could rock designer duds without having to pay designer prices? With Rent the Runway, you can! For any and every occasion, you can find the perfect dress from a selection of 95 top designers that RTR carries. You could rent Vera Wang, Oscar de la Renta and even Versace for a fraction of retail prices. All you have to do is reserve the dress you want, and it will be shipped to you with another backup size. Then, just send it back and start browsing for your next event! Last year on Cyber Monday, RTR offered 20 percent off entire purchases and shoppers received gift cards between $15-$50 depending on their orders. Log on to Rent the Runway today and get one step closer to wearing that Dolce and Gabbana dress of your dreams!

Beyond the Rack

This "private shopping club" offers designer apparel and accessories at prices up to 80 percent off. BTR is so exclusive that memberships are sometimes limited and invite-only. But, once you're in, you have access to designer sales events that only last around 48 hours, and everything is first come, first serve. This Cyber Monday, you can nab Prada, Burberry and vintage Chanel for up to 50 percent off, Kenneth Cole and American Apparel for up to 70 percent off and so much more.

Bonus discount: And, we got you a little something extra — when you sign up using this link, you will see a $10 shopping credit waiting in your account!

More Black Friday and Cyber Monday news

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Larry Hagman, better known as J.R. Ewing of Dallas, dead at 81

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The actor was the "most famous actor in the world" just a few decades ago. His family announced he passed away Friday from complications of cancer.

Larry Hagman

Larry Hagman, the man most remember as J.R. Ewing from the TV show Dallas, has died, according to his family. The actor was 81.

According to a statement released by his family to the New York Times, the cause of death was complications from cancer. Hagman was in Dallas shooting an episode of a modern-day version of Dallas, produced by TNT.

"In October 2011, shortly before filming began on the new Dallas, Mr. Hagman announced that he had a 'treatable' form of cancer," said the New York Times. "It was the latest of several health problems he had experienced since learning that he had cirrhosis in 1992. In 1995, he received a liver transplant after doctors discovered a tumor on his liver."

Hagman was on the original Dallas over three decades, from 1978 to 1991. According to the NY Times, he could be called the "most famous actor in the world" for a time in the 1970s and 1980s.

"As J.R., I could get away with anything — bribery, blackmail and adultery," Mr. Hagman told the NY Times when he was diagnosed with cancer last year. "But I got caught by cancer."

Hagman was also a part of a new world of marketing TV shows.

"The celebrated signature episode of Dallas, which resolved the question 'Who shot J.R.?' — a mystery masterfully marketed by the network and the show's producers — set viewing records, with an estimated 350 million people all over the world tuning in for the answer," said the NY Times.

Hagman said when he joined the new version of Dallas that he was excited by the opportunity to reprise the role he had made so famous. Before joining Dallas in 1978, Hagman was best known as astronaut Anthony Nelson in I Dream of Jeannie, a role he played from 1965 to 1970.

Hagman has also appeared recently in other TV shows, including Desperate Housewives and Nip/Tuck.

Photo courtesy of Daniel Deme/WENN.com

Target Cyber Monday deals

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Like many stores, Target is starting Cyber Monday a little early this year. The Cyber Monday sale will begin on Sunday at Target.com, with new deals all week long.

Woman shopping online on Cyber Monday

Cyber Monday is much less stressful than Black Friday. You can just sit in the comfort of your own home and shop online in your pajamas. However, you should still do a little research and be prepared in order to get the biggest savings.

Target starts Cyber Monday on Sunday

The savings won't stop all week at Target.com. Target is beginning their Cyber Monday sale on Sunday, and they will roll out new deals throughout the week. So, you'll need to check back often to see what's on sale. It's expected that some of the best deals will be available on Sunday and Monday.

Here is just a taste of some of the expected Cyber Monday deals from Target.

  • Buy a Motorola Digital Video Baby Monitor, get a $50 Target Card
  • Sony Blu-Ray Disc Player for just $70
  • Acer Aspire One 10.1-inch Netbook for only $200
  • Save 25 percent on all Dyson vacuums

Save all week long

You can also find a number of deals that well be available all week long at Target.com. Here are just a few of these deals that have been revealed so far.

  • Buy a KitchenAid Professional 6-Quart Stand Mixer, get at $50 Target Card
  • Buy a Vtech InnoTab 2S Learning App Tablet, get a free software title
  • Buy a NOOK Simple Touch with GlowLight by Barnes & Noble, get a $10 Target Card
  • Buy one, get one 50 percent off on select video games
  • Nikon COOLPIX S3300 16 Megapixel Digital Camera with 6x Optical Zoom discounted to just $80. The S4200 model will be only $100.

Since Target is rolling out different deals all week long, you'll need to check their website often to find out what's on sale. Also be sure to check out their social media sites @Target on Twitter and on Facebook to see if they announce any upcoming deals.

More about Cyber Monday

Cyber Monday is Cyber Week at Walmart
5 Ways to save major money on Cyber Monday
More Cyber Monday deals

It's business as usual for Halle Berry

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Halle Berry was spotted at a children's show with her daughter, Nahla, after the big Thanksgiving Day brawl between her ex-boyfriend and her current fiance.

Halle Berry

It was almost business as usual on Friday for Halle Berry as she took her daughter, Nahla, to the children's show of Yo Gabba Gabba! Live at the Nokia Theatre in Los Angeles. Nahla is at the center of a custody dispute.

Berry and her daughter enjoyed the entertainment, as a fellow attendee told RadarOnline.com, "At one point Nahla was sitting on Halle's lap, and they both seemed to be having a great time."

While the actress tries to keep a sense of normalcy for her 4-year-old, the lingering effects of the Thanksgiving Day brawl between her ex-boyfriend, Gabriel Aubrey, and her current fiance, Olivier Martinez, were definitely witnessed.

The Oscar winner has hired a security guard to escort her and the rest of her family whenever they go out. TMZ is reporting that the guard is armed and that Berry is taking Thursday's events very seriously.

Aubry, a former model, reportedly started the altercation, and Martinez reacted in self-defense. As a result, Aubry was arrested for battery. However, he remains out on bail until his Dec. 13 court date. A protective order is in place to prevent Aubry from getting within 100 yards of Berry, their daughter and Martinez.

Both Aubry and Martinez were spotted by the LA paparazzi on Friday, and it seems like the French actor got the upper hand. While he came away with an injured hand and some bruising on his neck, TMZ has exclusive photos of Aubry with a pretty big shiner around his left eye. He also has a broken rib.

How the altercation will affect the ongoing custody case over Nahla is unclear, but you can be sure Berry has her lawyers working overtime with this week's unfortunate events.

Image courtesy of WENN.com

Boxer Hector "Macho" Camacho dies in Puerto Rico

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Camacho was shot Tuesday in Puerto Rico. His family made the decision to take him off life support Saturday morning.

Hector Camacho

Hector “Macho” Camacho died Saturday morning after being shot on Tuesday night in Puerto Rico. The famous boxer was 50.

"Hector Camacho, a boxer known for his lightning-quick hands and flamboyant personality who emerged from a delinquent childhood in New York's Spanish Harlem to become a world champion in three weight classes, died Saturday in San Juan, P.R., four days after after being shot while sitting in a parked car," said the New York Times.

Dr. Ernesto Torres with the Centro Medico trauma center in Puerto Rico declared the death Saturday morning. According to Torres, Camacho suffered a heart attack shortly after being taken off life support. Friday, Camacho was declared brain dead, and his mother had announced she would be taking her son off life support after his sons arrived to see their father.

"We have done everything we could," Torres told ESPN Friday. "We have to tell the people of Puerto Rico and the entire world that Macho Camacho has died — he is brain dead."

Camacho's son said the decision to take his father off life support was "up to God."

"Papi was a great fighter, a warrior and now he is fighting for his life, and we have to let him fight until the end," Hector Camacho Jr. told ESPN.

Camacho rose through the ranks of boxing in the 1980s and 1990s.

"Fighting in bouts sanctioned by professional boxing's myriad organizing bodies, Camacho, who was widely known as Macho Camacho, won titles as a super featherweight , a lightweight and a junior welterweight ," said the New York Times. "In his last title bout, at age 35 in 1997, he fought at 147 pounds and lost to the welterweight champion Oscar De La Hoya."

Camacho was born May 24, 1962, in Puerto Rico and moved to New York City with his mother when he was 3. He began boxing as a teenager and quickly gained the interest of many high-profile boxers.

"Not only quick, but accurate," boxer Sugar Ray Leonard said in 1982 after watching Camacho, according to the NY Times. "I told him that people are always asking who's going to take my place. I told him he could."

Camacho was divorced and is survived by his mom, siblings, four sons and two grandsons.

Photo courtesy of Aaron Gilbert/WENN.com

Bruce Willis donates mountain to small Idaho town

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The actor owns a number of properties, but for years he has made small-town Idaho his home away from home. He decided to do what he could to give back to that community.

Bruce Willis

When Demi Moore and Bruce Willis were still married, they owned over $20 million worth of real estate in the mountains of Idaho, reportedly as a getaway from their Hollywood lives. After the divorce, Bruce Willis still owned The Mint Bar and Liberty Theater in the small town of Hailey, Idaho, as well as a ski resort in Fairfield, Idaho.

In April, Willis put his Hailey home and bar up for sale for a combined $21 million. He had hoped to also sell the ski resort but has since decided to donate it to the citizens of Fairfield.

"I couldn’t be more pleased with the organization that will be responsible for the management of Soldier Mountain Ski Area," Willis said in a press release to the Idaho Statesman. "It was exciting to see that the very people who ski at Soldier care so much about its future. I wish them the very best."

A nonprofit group formed to take over the mountain, bringing ownership back to the locals. Back in April, Willis was in town to take part in a town hall to discuss ownership changes of the mountain.

"It went from idea to execution in a matter of weeks," local attorney Will Varin, president of the new nonprofit, said.

Willis made it a point to give the mountain back to the community, and the community understands the importance of that move.

"It's an honor and a privilege to do it," Varin told the Idaho Statesman. "At the end of the day, we don't own the mountain, it's a community mountain."

The spokesperson for the new nonprofit group, local Justin Nyquist, echoed the sentiment.

"Soldier Mountain is the pride of Fairfield," Nyquist told the Idaho Mountain Express. "The new owners want to keep it that way. This community meeting is a chance to lay out the ownership change to the town and offer residents an opportunity to ask questions."

In March 2009, the base lodge at Soldier Mountain burned down, but Willis quickly rebuilt it. The new lodge, which is 4,500 square feet, opened just 10 months later, in January 2010.

Photo courtesy of WENN.com
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