Backwards N High Heels

Balancing work and play while wearing many hats (I mean heels).

Happy Amazon Prime Day!


*Please note: This post contains affiliate links.

Amazon Prime Day is here! Now if you follow Bloggers, you may by this point be annoyed with three words: Nordstrom Anniversary Sale. It is everywhere. I can almost bet one in every four InstaStories will be someone mentioning the sale. I, on the other hand, am focusing my energy and attention on one online promotion – Amazon Prime Day.

If you are unfamiliar, Amazon Prime Day starts at 3:00 pm EST on July 16th, and lasts through the 17th, for a total of 36 hours. Basically, it is a giant online yard sale, with Amazon Black Friday savings in July.  There are two types of deals – 1) Lightning and 2) Spotlight. A lightning deal is only available for a short period of time and one per customer. The spotlight deals are available on the website for longer periods of time during the sale. But, and there is a big but, you have to be an Amazon Prime Member to take advantage of the deals.

I LOVE being a Prime member. In fact, I have been one for about three years now. You pay a one-time fee and in exchange, you receive free shipping and a whole slew of special promotions. Read Here.

Here are some tips for shopping the sale.

  1. If you are not a Prime Member, sign up for a free Amazon Prime Trial.
    That is right, you can sneak a 30-day trial to take advantage of the sale, and then once it is over and before the end of your 30-days, cancel your subscription. However, download-er beware, we cannot guarantee that you won’t love Prime and want to keep it.
  2. Ask Alexa
    If you own an Amazon Alexa, ask her for some Amazon Prime deals early. Word on the street is she will reply with a poem or cryptic message which should provide some hints on the deals. By the way, deals are available every single hour and yes, they do sell out.
  3. Visit the Prime Day Homepage for Deals
    Once the sale starts, the Prime Day Homepage will feature a number of early deals. The web page will showcase a countdown too so you can be ready to snag some of the future deals.
  4. Download the Amazon App
    Amazon is offering $10 in credit for the first time that you make a purchase using their app. Plus, you can set up alerts under settings for when deals occur. Learn how Here.
  5. Love Music?
    Amazon is offering Amazon Music for just $1 for four months! After the trail, you will be billed $7.99 a month, but you can cancel your subscription at any time.
  6. Eary Access Top Sales
    Here is a sneak preview of some of the upcoming sales. Amazon discounts their own products the best! Christmas shopping in July, anyone?
    Amazon-Prime-Deals_BackwardsNHighHeels1 – Echo Dot (2nd Generation) with Smart Speaker with Alexa – $29.99  |  2 – Kindle Paperwhite E-Reader – Black – $79.99  |  3 – Amazon Fire 7 Kids Edition Tablet – $69.99  |  4 – Amazon Echo Spot – Black – $99.99  |  5 – Amazon Echo (2nd Generation) with Smart Speaker with Alexa – $69.99

Happy Shopping!

Hunter for Target Sneak Peek

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Duffle Bag – 40.00* RedCard Exclusive  |  Raincoat – 40.00  |  Sweatshirt – 30.00  |  Boots – 40.00  |  Cooler – 50.00  |  Trench Coat – 45.00

This post contains affiliated links.

A month ago I shared some subtle news on my Blog’s Facebook page, Hunter and Target joined forces – HUNTER AND TARGET JOINED FORCES. Subtle. Read Target’s collab on their website.

I love me some Hunter and well, I really have a crush on Target, so this union is a fashion lovers dream come true.

This is not the first time Target has partnered with a major fashion designer. Their past collaborations have included brands such as Lilly Pulitzer, Missoni, and Jason Wu, but this collaboration with Hunter, in my opinion, is going to be a relative hit!

A selection of items are currently available for RedCard Holders to buy online, including the duffle bag I have featured above, otherwise, we all must wait for April 14.

Now I will admit, the only Hunter I own is in the form of their boots. This Target collaboration does feature boots but not in their signature Hunter Boot style. My belief is that they do not want to take away from their brand or the price point which runs about $150 for their original tall. The collaboration boots look a bit different with side cut-outs, but the distinction also comes with a decrease in price. $40 for Target boots, compared to $150 for Hunter original tall boots. The difference it is hard to beat.

Above are some of my picks for Women’s fashions and below I have featured some toddler favorites.

Now take note, this collaboration is based on a limited supply, so take time now to review the Website. My suggestion, shop early at your nearest Target or online when the collection goes on sale, April 14, 2018.

Happy shopping! Oh, and thank you Target and Hunter!

Hunter-For-Target_Toddler_Sneak-Peek_Backwards N High Heels BlogBoots – 25.00  |  Raincoat – 25.00  |  Boots – 25.00

Creative Easter Basket Ideas

Easter is a little over one month away, and I have already begun to save items in my Amazon basket for Logan’s Easter Basket. By the way, is there anyone else like me who shops online and never actually buys the things saved in their virtual basket? I wish I could say the same for my trips to Target.

I know some of you may roll your eyes at me when I say this (and that is okay because guess what? I will not know that you did) – I am not a big fan of filling Logan’s Easter basket with candy. Say what? Yes, I will say it again – I am not a big fan of filling Logan’s Easter Basket with candy.

While it may seem like a tradition that I am depriving my daughter of, let me assure you, she gets plenty of candy. Her basket will usually include a few treats like peeps, some McFarland Candies chocolates (a local chocolatier) and jelly beans, but other than that, I try to use her basket as a way to get creative with things she needs or I want to get her.

As a total presentation-focused individual, these Easter Basket ideas I found while scanning Pinterest, caught my eye. How fun are these non-traditional basket ideas?

For full disclosure, these ideas are not my own. They are actually from far more creative people, so I have been sure to include direct links to the sources. Just click the images below.

Photo credit – i heart arts n crafts

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New Year – January Declutter Challenge

*This post contains Affiliate links.

Happy New Year! Holy 8 Ball, it is 2018. As my dear three-year-old says and manages to get every adult in the room to turn their head in horror, “What the!?” Yes, she just leaves it at that, “What the?!” Enough for a solid gasp, before a required chuckle.

Oh, oh, oh. If you are like me there is something about the New Year that reminds you of the return of Spring. A sense of renewal and rejuvenation to make things new. For me, it is a serious purge. I think it comes naturally with taking down the tree and packing away Christmas. Very quickly my warm, lit, cozy, cluttered home, becomes white, sterile and empty. It truly makes me want to clean out every drawer, cupboard, and closet in a complete act of victory,

So, I thought why be crazy, I mean, why do this alone? We all could use a swift kick in the rear to motivate ourselves and each other to declutter and minimalize our lives.

Won’t you join me? As described below, each week will focus on one challenge. You have a week to complete the tasks. Of course, you only have yourself to hold you accountable but we are in this together and will push each other to complete.

 

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Top Blog Posts of 2017

2017. Wow. Can you believe we are here starring at 2018? It is so hard to grasp how quickly time moves.

While I don’t want to say 2017 was a bad year because I know the good outweighs all the bad, and I am blessed for another year of life and everything and every day in between, 2017 has indeed been a very hard and challenging year.

I started this Top Blog Posts recap in 2015. Basically, I pull all my blog stats and see which posts generated the most views for the year. So the results below are because of you and your readership and support.

And, while we are at it, let’s talk about you, dear friend. I come to this space time and time again to share pieces and snippets of my life in hopes that one blog post or one line from a blog post would start to fix a broken heart, mend a worn spirit, ease a worried mind, or make even the most exhausted of parents chuckle.

You are not alone. We are not alone, and that is the point of Backwards N High Heels. To share how our lives while every so different, can also offer glimpses of ever the same.

I thank you for continuing to come to this space. For believing in me and heck, maybe even enjoying a thing or two I say. May God bless each of you as we wind down 2017 and enter 2018.

10 – Top 10 Reasons Living With a Toddler is Like Living With a Drunk Person
Top10ReasonsLivingWithAToddlerIsLikeLivingWithADrunkPerson_BestBlogPostOf2017

9 – My New Season With God
MyNewSeasonWithGod
8 – In Sickness and In Health
InSicknessAndInHealth_BestPostsOf2017

7 – Change
Change_BestBlogPostOf20176 – God’s Grace and Prayers
GodsGraceAndPrayers_BestPostsOf2017
5 – I Wish For My Daughter
IWishForMyDaughter_BestBlogPostsof20174 – We Swore We Would Never Become Our Mothers
WeSworeWeWouldNeverBecomeOurMothers_BestPostsof2017

3 – Great Wolf Lodge – Williamsburg, VA
Great-Wolf-Lodge_Williamsburg-VA_BackwardsNHighHeels_BestBlogPostsof2017
2 – I Failed At Parenting
IFailedAtParenting_BackwardsNHighHeels-Blog_BestBlogPostof2017
1 – This Part of our Story
ThisPartOfOurStory_BestBlogPost0f2017
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Best Pinterest Recipes of 2017

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It is no secret, I adore Pinterest. I have told you all this time and time again. While it may seem unimaginable, I do recall a time, when recipe references relied upon bookmarked recipe books or printed off recipes online. In fact, I still have both! I have a cabinet in my dining room hutch that is reserved for said books, which contain a few favorites. The worse part is I have to remember which book included the recipe, which usually results in me pulling out every book to skim through each. I too have a blue battered three-ring binder that contains all of the recipes I have printed online over the years (pre-Pinterest). Today it is more convenient to turn to my Pinterest App, which includes a great search feature, allowing me to look through saved Pins. Voila, I have my favorite recipe at my fingertips, in seconds.

But let me advise, not every Pinterest recipe is a winner. In fact, there are some real hum-dingers out there. Some I have experienced first hand, thinking, “Boy, the photo did you more justice.”

I refuse to keep a pin on my Food Board if it is not approved by me. So, in honor of the New Year approaching, I decided to share my favorite Pinterest Recipes of 2017.

Chicken A La Gloria – Cooking With Sugar
Sweet Potato Fries – New York Times
Honey Mustard Chicken Avocado Bacon Salad – Cafe Delites
No-Knead Dutch Oven Bread – Girl Versus Dough
Slow Cooker Sausage, Spinach, and White Bean Soup – Damn Delicious
Apple Cranberry Walnut Salad – Creme de la Crumb
Chessy Zucchini Bake – Lemon Tree Dwelling
Mom’s Seasoned Pretzels – Sallys Baking Addiction

So, which one are you most interested to try? Let me gently nudge you that all are super easy and super delicious, or else they would not make my list!

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Holiday Gift Guide for Him

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Tis’ the season, for trying to hunt down the perfect gift idea for, him. Quite possibly the hardest person on your list. I know it is a challenge for mine. (Sorry, Nathan). I have had some wins and then some fails, but for the most part, I try to get something he specifically asks for or hints hard about, and then I try to surprise him with a well-thought-out gift.

I know his hobbies, which usually include hunting, fishing, and being outdoors, so a gift that falls into one of those categories usually scores a ride in my virtual shopping cart, followed by an online order and delivery to my door. Oh, how I love online shopping.

For the Craft Brew Lover – Beer Cap Map – this is so much better than a neon light beer branded bar sign! Plus, it is a conversation starter on the best beers and breweries across the country.

For the Techie – Amazon Echo 2nd Generation – supposedly new sound, new design and new features which include pairing with other Echos in the home, calling and messaging contacts, and cooking dinner. Just kidding. I am making sure you are still reading. Projector – add a pop-up screen and popcorn to the stocking and you have a movie night wherever you go!

For the Music Lover – Record Clock – this is pretty nifty because it is fully functional and is also pretty thought out. If the guy in your life has a space that his own, a basement “man cave,’ a music room, a garage or his office, this is a nice touch. Phone Speaker – I feel like music from this wooden speaker would almost be sweeter.

For the Outdoor Lover – Duffle Bag – because if he likes to hunt or fish then he probably does not believe deer and fish exist in the mountains and waters near him, but instead far away places call his name. Chair Hammock – because nights by the river, or camping trips require some luxurious of relaxation.

For the Gamer – Nintendo NES Classic Edition – Super Mario is still, in my opinion, hands-down, the best game there ever was. A close second, Sonic the Hedgehog, but who is talking about him? If your guy likes to game, why not surprise him with the system that probably started the love! Virtual Reality Headset – because if life is not exciting enough, why, not put one of these bad boys on and travel to another world the virtual world that is.

For the Funny Man – Tube Wringer – for the goofball that likes a good laugh, and because let’s face it, guys tend to not really know how to empty a toothpaste container.

For the Sports Lover – The Nascar Racing Experience or Banks Billfold Wallet (constructed from vintage American Baseball glove leather). Both nice touches! One more experienced focused and the other a bit more sentimental.

For the Fashion Focused – Patagonia Hat – a named-brand like Patagonia is one that tends to be more outdoor and high-end focused. If you can’t swing a jacket or sweatshirt, this hat is a nice touch.

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Cyber Monday Deals

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The Ultimate Cyber Monday Deals List!
*I will be updating throughout the day so check back in. This post contains affiliate links.

Adidas – 30% OFF. Use Code CYBER2017. Ends 11/28/2017.
ALDO – 50% OFF original price on all sale + 20% OFF regular priced merchandise. Ends 11/27/2017.
American Eagle – 40% OFF everything + free shipping.
American Girl – Up to 60% OFF + $5.95 shipping on all orders $100+. Use Code CMSHIP.
Ann Taylor – Free shipping + 50% OFF everything. Use Code BESTMONDAY. Ends 11/28/2017.
Anthropologie – 20% OFF full price items + free shipping on $100+.
Athleta – 20% OFF. Use Code REFRESH. Ends 11/27/2017.
ASOS – 30% OFF everything with Code EPIC30. Ends 11/28/2017.
Banana Republic – 50% OFF Everything. Ends 11/27/2018.
bareMinerals – 25% OFF everything + free shipping. Use Code CYBER.
Bath & Body Works – 40% OFF Everything + free shipping on $40+. Use Code CYBERMON.
Bauble Bar – 35% OFF Everything! Use Code CYBER35. Ends 11/28/2017.
Caden Lane – 20% OFF Everything. Use Code CYBER20.
Carter’s – 50% OFF entire store + an extra 25% OFF $40+. Use Code CYBER.
Charming Charlie – Up to 50% OFF everything + free shipping.
Coach Outlet – 70% OFF everything.
Crate and Barrel – 15% OFF full price items. Use Code SAVE15. + free shipping on orders of $49+. Ends 11/27/2017.
Disney Store – Save up to 30% OFF. Use Code CYBRRR.
Eddie Bauer – 50% OFF everything. Use Code HOLIDAYS.
EXPRESS – 50% OFF everything + free shipping. Ends 11/28/2017.
Free People – 25% OFF everything + free standard shipping. Ends 11/27/2017.
Forever 21 – 21% OFF everything. Use Code CYBER21.
GAP – 50% OFF + free shipping. Use Code CYBER. + Extra 10% OFF Everything. Use Code TREAT. Ends 11/27/2017.
Gymboree – $25 OFF $100+. Use Code CYBER.
H&M – 30% OFF everything.
hanna Anderson – $25 all kids organic pajamas. + Extra 25% OFF everything else including sale items.
HUNTER – 20% OFF + exclusive offer on the women’s original tall rain boot.
Janie and Jack – Free shipping + 35% OFF entire order.
J.Crew – 40% OFF + extra 10% off your purchase until noon.
J.Crew Factory – 60% OFF everything + an extra 50% OFF clearance. Use Code CYBER. Ends 11/28/2017.
Justice – 50% OFF excluding furniture, including clearance.
Kate Spade – 30% OFF full price items + 40% OFF sale items. Use Code MOREJOY. Ends 11/28/2017.
KEEN – 20% OFF + free 2-day shipping on orders of $75+.
Kendra Scott – 20% OFF everything. Use Code YELLOW20.
Land of Nod – 20% OFF (Including Furniture) + $99 Delivery! Ends 11/27/2017.
Little Tykes – 25% OFF sitewide. Use Code CYBER25.
LOFT – 50% OFF Everything + free shipping. Use Code CLICK. Ends 11/28/2017.
LOU and GREY – $25 OFF $150+. + Free shipping.
MAC Cosmetics – 25% OFF + a free cyber lip set on $50+. Use Code MAC25.
Macy’s – Take an extra 20% OFF. Code CYBER. Ends 11/29/2017.
Madewell – 25% OFF your purchase. Use Code GOODMODE.
ModCloth – 30% OFF + free shipping. Use Code CYBER.
Nordstrom – 20% OFF selected sale items.
North Face – Up to 20% OFF.
Old Navy – 50% OFF Everything. Ends 11/27/2017.
Pottery Barn – Up to 70% OFF. + Free shipping. Use Code FREESHIP.
Pottery Barn Kids – Up to 70% OFF. + Free shipping. Use Code FREESHIP.
Target – 15% OFF your order.
TOMS – Free shipping + 25% OFF select styles including all sale. Use Code THANKFUL.
Toys R Us / Babies R Us – Save 15% OFF your entire purchase.
Urban Outfitters – $50 OFF $150+. $15 OFF $75+.
Victoria’s Secret – Free shipping on $30+ plus 20% OFF %125+. Use Codes SHIP30 and 200FFVS.
West Elm – Up to 70% OFF + free shipping with Code FREERIDE.
Zara – 40% OFF select items.

Don’t forget to use EBATES when you shop! Simply download the EBATES Button, which will always alert you to cash back available on retailer sites you are shopping.

Please note: Retailers may change their offers which may not reflect above. All offers are subject to change.

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Holiday Gift Guide for Toddlers

Toddler_Holiday-Gift-Guide copyHave you been watching my Instagram stories lately? Well, if so, you will see that over the course of the last few months, our two-nearly-three-year-old daughter’s personality is really starting to come out. Some days I love it. Other days I am terrified, but for the most part, I enjoy the daily giggles I get from the cute, honest, and spontaneous things she says.

We are in full Christmas mode here in our home. It is true when they say that the holiday magic returns once you have children. Suddenly that butterflies in your belly magic that once existed as a child returns and you feel the spirit of the holiday season return. We are enjoying creating new traditions and celebrating ones that our parents started with us.

At this age, Lo changes her Christmas wish list quite a few times in one day. I really do not know what she wants but instead, know she will like just about anything. As shopping has already begun, here are a few favorites for Toddlers this holiday season.

Play Kitchen  |  Mixer Set  |  Fridge Food  |  “Everything is Mama” Book  |  Sleeping Bag  |  Table Top Easel  |  Circus Mice in Tent  |  Kids Chair  |  Farmers Market Playtime Kit  |  My Mommy’s Tote

What is your favorite from the list or what holiday gift ideas for toddlers would you like to share?

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