Welcome to another Blogmas! I’m a little bit behind, so I’ll do my best to catch up this weekend. Christmas is fast approaching. It’s that time of year when shelves are lined with themed decor, kitchenware, etc., and stores are filled with people shopping for everyone on their holiday list(s). It seems that with each passing year, there are more and more goods to choose from, which can be overwhelming. Personally, I love giving and receiving practical gifts because they are long-lasting and often budget-friendly. There is something for everyone, whether homemade or not. The reality is that it’s truly the thought that counts. Even a card, which many would think “isn’t enough,” is special and appreciated. Here are some of my top picks for gifting this holiday season. *This post contains affiliate and referral links.
Continue Readinggifts
☁️Cooler Weather & Last-Minute Gift Ideas🍪
It looks like we are finally in for some cooler weather, and possibly definitely rain, this week. The plan is to get some of the storage unit cleaned out before temperatures go back up. We have so much that others could put to good use, and we’d like to rid ourselves of the added expense. Ideally, I’d like to get the furniture and box of clothes out since they are the stored items most affected by the weather. Productivity-wise, I made cookie dough to freeze until just before Christmas. I also got the other treats made and handed out for the most part. Every year we give out baked goods to friends and family. All I need are either tins or plates since I used the last of what we had last year.
Blogmas, Days 3-4: A Wish List
I had to sit and think hard about this post. There was a lot of wavering on whether or not to post a wish/gift list given the state of the world. It somehow seemed inappropriate, yet when I thought more about it, there is nothing wrong with wishing. Perhaps I’m reading more into it than is necessary. I don’t want it to come off as selfish. I also don’t want anyone to think that I’m promoting going out, especially with the current goings on. If you have the resources to shop online, practically anything can be delivered. Deliveries can also be made to you loved ones, which is convent, especially now. If you are curious about my (admittedly short) list, read on.
Continue ReadingPlastic-Free July: Day 29, Practical Gifting 🎁
There are a couple of days left in Plastic-Free July. This post will be more of a discussion on practical gifting versus a clickable gift guide. Fun gifts (i.e. toys for the kids, board games, etc.) are fantastic and will get use. For the adults, if I’m not giving gift cards, then it’s something handmade. Occasionally, when I find something I think someone will really like, and they don’t have it, then I’ll get it. I don’t do this often though. My current financial situation has forced me (in a good way) to be more resourceful and careful in what I give. That also means that I can make practical, zero- or low-waste items tailored to the recipient. Make sure to do your research and know if the recipient has any allergies/sensitivities before starting.
Continue ReadingValentine’s Day Gifts for Everyone
Valentine’s Day is in 4 days, and whether you are celebrating with your sweetheart or friends, gifts always add a nice touch. They may not get them on the day, but (1) It’s the thought that counts, and (2) It’ll be a nice little extension of the day. Gift cards & handmade gifts are always nice as well. Anyway, here are some ideas for everyone.
For the Gamer
Razer Naga Epic Chroma Mouse, $129.99
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| Image courtesy of razerzone.com |
Add some life into your gamer’s set-up with this mouse. Complete with a 12-button thumb grid and over 16.8 million colors, it works wonderfully alone or in conjunction with other Razer Chroma accessories. It will also sync with other Chroma products, lighting a desk in a “wonderful world of color”.
Gunnars Gaming Glasses, $59.25 & up
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| Image courtesy of gunnars.com |
The frames of the gaming glasses are specifically designed for headset compatibility. Gunnars also makes outdoor and crystalline glasses. The crystalline glasses are made for graphic designers and those who work with true color. They can also be customized using your gamer’s prescription. You can read their FAQ for more information.
For the Traveler
LOOP: World Travel Adapter, $19.97
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| Image courtesy of amazon.com |
Does your loved one travel or do they have a trip coming up? If so, this is the perfect gift to make sure that all of their devices are charged, no matter where they are. This adapter is compatible for outlets in over 150 countries including, but not limited to: Australia, China, the United States, and Canada. Three devices can be charged at once.
Swisste: Luggage Scale w/Built-In Measuring Tape, $18.95
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| Image courtesy of amazon.com |
Airlines are becoming more strict with weight allowance. This digital scale makes the perfect gift to ensure that the recipient’s luggage not only meets the weight requirement, but the measurement requirement as well. Batteries are included, and the light-up screen makes the display easy to read.
SouthernGalSass on Etsy: Monogrammed Travel Cosmetics Bag, $7.00
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| Image courtesy of SouthernGalSass |
This 8 x 6, TSA-approved travel bag can be customized with any initials. There are several initial colors to choose from, such as purple, black, and pink, to create a completely personalized product. Gift it alone or fill it with little travel accessories or sweets.
For the Makeup-Lover
Kevyn Aucoin: Making Faces, $21.99 and Kevyn Aucoin: Face Forward, $21.99
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| Image courtesy of sephora.com |
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| Image courtesy of sephora.com |
Years ago I purchased these two books. Both helped me tremendously regarding techniques and color application. Making Faces provides photos of makeup looks on one side, and the techniques, tools, colors, and tips for creating the look. Face Forward does the same, and provides bios of the celebrities who Kevyn worked with. The books are a great addition to the bookshelves of those who want to hone their makeup skills, learn the different ways that fundamentals can be used, and create more than just a smoky eye.
bdellium tools: Travel Basic 7 piece brush Set, $50.00
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| Image courtesy of nigelbeauty.com |
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| Image courtesy of bdelliumtools.com |
Great looks start with good skin and great tools. Since aDesign is no longer in business, I have been using bdellium tools. The quality is wonderful and they have lasted a long time, under harsh treatment. This travel set contains one of each of the following brushes: Blusher, Foundation, Slanted Contour, Tapered Blending, Shadow, Angled Brow, and Precision Liner. Since brushes, even though they are named, can be used for multiple purposes & applications, the possibilities are virtually endless. It also comes with a convenient carrying case, so it’s great at home and while traveling.
Benefit Cosmetics: Dandelion Wishes Set, $34.00
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| Image courtesy of sephora.com |
Benefit has some great gift sets, and this is one that will finish off any “no makeup” look. The colors in this set are light, perfect for spring and summer, and will add the perfect amount of color. It also comes with the much-loved Roller Lash mini mascara, for flirty lashes. This set contains mini versions of the following (set courtesy of sephora.com): Dandelion Box o’ Powder Blush in Baby-Pink, Dandelion Ultra Plush Lip Gloss in Soft Pearly Pink, Roller Lash Curling & Lifting Mascara, High Beam Liquid Face Highlighter, and Posieblam Hydrating Tinted Lip Balm in Poppy Pink.
For the Skincare & Fragrance Guru
Caroline Chu: Anti-Aging Starter Kit, $59.95
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| Image courtesy of carolinechu.com |
This wonderful starter kit comes with an anti-aging eye cream, day & night cream, and serum. While some may be offended at the thought, others will appreciate it. For example, my friend’s mom loves trying out new anti-aging formulas because she wants her skin to stay as youthful as it possibly can. This set is the perfect addition to anyone’s skincare routine.
The Art of Shaving: The 4 Element
s of the Perfect Shave, $30.00
s of the Perfect Shave, $30.00
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| Image courtesy of sephora.com |
Make sure your recipient gets the perfect shave every time with this travel-friendly 4-piece set that contains: Pre-shave oil, shaving cream, after-shave balm, and a shaving brush. The products help to combat ingrown hairs and razor burn, and is perfect for sensitive skin. There are no synthetic dyes or fragrances, and the products do not contain alcohol.
Clarisonic: Mia 2 Starry Night Set, $119.00
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| Image courtesy of sephora.com |
If you’re looking to indulge your loved one, this set has a little bit of everything. Clarisonic is, personally, my favorite skincare device. It cleanses and is travel-friendly. This set includes a variety of skincare and the device. It is everything your recipient will need for amazing skin at home and on-the-go.
Set contains (from sephora.com):
– Blue Moon Mia 2 Facial Cleansing Device with Sensitive Brush Head
– Blue Moon travel case
– pLink Charger
– 1 oz Clarisonic Sonic Radiance™ Brightening Solution Skin Renewing Peel Wash
– 0.17 oz Dr. Jart+ BB Night Beauty Balm
– 0.17 oz Algenist Genius Ultimate Anti-Aging Vitamin C+ Serum
– 0.7 oz Boscia Tsubaki Deep Hydration Sleeping Mask
– Blue Moon travel case
– pLink Charger
– 1 oz Clarisonic Sonic Radiance™ Brightening Solution Skin Renewing Peel Wash
– 0.17 oz Dr. Jart+ BB Night Beauty Balm
– 0.17 oz Algenist Genius Ultimate Anti-Aging Vitamin C+ Serum
– 0.7 oz Boscia Tsubaki Deep Hydration Sleeping Mask
Fred Segal: The Blend Mini Kit, $29.00
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| Image courtesy of sephora.com |
This unisex 4-piece set of travel-sized rollerball fragrances are perfect for creating one-of-a-kind scents. The set contains 0.09oz of the following fragrances: Amber Vanilla, Tropic Bloom, Clean Musk, and Citrus Zest Pure Fragrance Oil. Recipe cards are also included that contain some favorite blends.
For the Accessorizer
Enchanted Leaves: Jewelry & Accessories, $4.99 & up
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| Image courtesy of enchantedleaves.com |
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| Image courtesy of enchantedleaves.com |
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| Image courtesy of enchantedleaves.com |
Enchanted Leaves has some great eclectic and whimsical jewelry. I have a few pieces from them, and I have purchased a few for my friends. They have something for everyone. From pendants featuring airplanes, wishing bottles, and miniature silverware, to brooches and earrings that make a matching set, Enchanted Leaves has it all.
Razer: Nabu & Nabu Forged Watch, $149.99 & $199.99
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| Nabu Forged. Image courtesy of Razer |
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| Nabu Forged. Image courtesy of Razer |
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| Nabu Watch. Image courtesy of Razer |
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| Nabu Watch. Image courtesy of Razer |
These new watches are the latest wearables from Razer. Announced at CES 2016, each watch is a fitness tracker, message notifier, timer, stopwatch, and has the option to sync alarms & display world times. There is an app that the watch syncs to that includes a fitness section, sleep tracking, and more. The difference between the regular and the Forged edition is the material. The Forged watch is made of stainless steel, whereas the Nabu watch is made of polycarbonate.
For the Chocolate-Lover
Chuao Chocolatier: Craft Beer & Chocolate Bar Set, $24.00
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| Image courtesy of chuaochocolatier.com |
Anyone who knows me knows how much I love Chuao. My dad introduced me to it awhile back, and I was so sad when they closed the only boutique close to me. Now that they have a full online store virtually any combination of bonbons/truffles can be arranged, and they have several gift baskets & items. This set contains 4 Potato Chip Bars OR 4 Baconluxious Bars & a bottle of Arrogant Bastard.
Chuao Chocolatier: Milk Chocolate Bliss Tower, $64.95
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| Image courtesy of chuaochocolatier.com |
This generous gift can be given to one person or broken up to provide several smaller gifts. It contains a 9-piece bonbon set, 4 regular sized chocolate bars in: Oh My S’mores, Ravishing Rocky Road, Cinnamon Cereal Smooch, and Strawberry Waffle Wild, and a 16-piece mini bar assortment in: Potato Chip, Caramel Apple Crush, Baconluxious, and Pop Corn Pop.
** Get free shipping on orders of $60+ with promo code SWEETTHING OR $10 off expedited shipping on orders of $60+ with promo code HOTSTUFF **
For the Fitness Fanatic
AfterShokz: Bluez 2, $79.99
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| Image courtesy of aftershokz.com |
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| Image courtesy of aftershokz.com |
Everyone knows how much I love AfterShokz. Their wireless Bluez 2 headsets provide wonderful sound without compromising safety. The music is heard clearly, as are one’s surroundings. Recipients can work out at the gym, home, or outside, without worrying about what is around them.
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| Image courtesy of amazon.com |
Gabor Fitness: Shaker Bottle, $9.95
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| Image courtesy of amazon.com |
This shaker bottle makes a great gift for those who like to mix up their drinks. It comes with a 6oz dry product container and divided container. The containers can be used for protein powder (or any other drink mix), and the divided container is perfect for supplements, medication, or a small snack. The bottle comes in the following colors: black, blue, green, orange, and pink.
For the Kids
Milk Jar Cookies: Box Set, $15.00 & up
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| Mint Chocolate. Image courtesy of Milk Jar Cookies |
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| Birthday Cake. Image courtesy of Milk Jar Cookies |
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| Chocolate Chip. Image courtesy of Milk Jar Cookies |
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| Chocolate Covered Strawberry. Image courtesy of Milk Jar Cookies |
If you’re not wanting to spend time baking, these cookies are the best I’ve had from any bakery. Remember those awesome giant chocolate chip cookies from school? Well, they no longer sell them, but these are the closest thing to them. They are not as big, but the flavor is all there. They also have seasonal flavors such as Chocolate Covered Strawberry, and everyday options, such as Birthday Cake and Mint Chocolate. You can pick from popular and gluten-free boxes, or customize your own. each box starts at a 1/2 dozen. Kids will love them, and you will too.
Coupon Books for Kids, FREE*
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| Image courtesy of activitiesforkids.com |
This activity is labeled for kids, but it’s perfect to give to kids as well. You can customize what each coupon says, or cut & create your own in a word document. Include one-on-one parent days, a trip to their favorite place to eat, an ice cream, or something else they enjoy. When I was little we had coupon books that included things like “One mommy & me day” or “One picnic in the park”.
*You may have to pay for string or whatever your use for binding and decorations, but if you have something around the house, then this gift is essentially free.*
DIY Gifts
If you are unsure what to give and don’t want to give a gift card, there are several other DIY creative options. Adult-themed coupons can be a fun way to bring intimacy to the relationship. They don’t have to be those kind of coupons either. Sometimes all it takes is one day of not having to do the dishes or laundry. Of course, if you are looking for those types of gifts, Hustler Hollywood has some great options. Lingerie, shoes, adult toys, edible body paint, and more are both online and in-stores. Their gift cards can be registered as a rewards card, too. Each dollar is worth a point that can be converted into money that can be used in the stores. Find out more by reading their FAQ. Mason jars filled with your recipient’s favorite goodies, a handmade piece of jewelry, or a handwritten letter (because, who does that anymore, eh?) are also ideas to show you care.
Stay beautiful!
Gift-Giving Guide, Part 1: Makeup Gift Sets
The holidays seem to come earlier and earlier. Of course, it’s now the end of October, and before you know it, it’ll be time to give gifts. Personally, I love gift-giving. Whether it’s a gift card, set, or something handmade, there is something for everyone. Here are a few ideas for the makeup-lover on your list. I have complied a list a high- and low-end (regarding price) sets that will hopefully fit any budget. You can also create your own gift set by adding full- or travel-sized items to a basket, jar, or other container.
1. ULTA: Time to Shine 71-Piece Collection, $24.99
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| Image courtesy of ulta.com |
For the makeup lover who is just starting their collection, or someone who wants a kit on-the-go, this ULTA brand collection has everything in one convenient train case. The train case has two pull-out drawers that house makeup, and comes in either a pink or silver finish. Time to Shine contains the following (list from ULTA.com):
- 36 eye shadows (0.95 oz)
- 6 glitter eye top coats (0.31 oz)
- 3 brow powders (0.15 oz)
- 1 brow wax (0.04 oz)
- 6 gel eye liners (0.23 oz)
- 1 matte lip cream (0.06 oz)
- 1 brilliant lip gloss (0.06 oz)
- 2 dual ended eye liners (0.07 oz)
- 2 eye shadow primers (0.078 oz)
- 3 blush shades (0.33 oz)
- 1 powder (0.11 oz)
- 1 highlighter (0.11 oz)
- 2 bronzers (0.22 oz)
- 6 concealers (0.21 oz)
2. ULTA: Lip Glossary, $16.00
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| Image courtesy of ulta.com |
Lip Glossary contains 15 mini glosses in a wide array of shades from neutrals to reds, and everything in-between. Gift the collection or break them up, and create a custom gift for multiple people.
3. Sephora: Lancome Noel Eye Set, $38.00
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| Image courtesy of sephora.com |
This eye set is a great value. It comes with the following:
– 0.35 oz Grandoise Mascara (full size)
– 0.135 oz Hypnôse Drama Mascara (mini size)
– 0.028 oz Drama Liqui-pencil Eye Pencil in Noir Intense (mini size)
– 0.07 oz Cils Booster Base Mascara Primer (mini size)
– 0.047 oz Artliner Eyeliner in Noir (full size)
– 1.7 oz Bi-Facil Eye Makeup Remover
The Grandiose mascara alone is $32.00, so for $6.00 more, you get a mini mascara, primer, remover, and two eyeliners. It is a wonderful set for you or any makeup-lover on your list. This set will ensure amazing eyes whether one is going for a dramatic night look or soft day look.
4. Sephora Favorites Lashstash, $45.00
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| Image courtesy of sephora.com |
For the one who loves to try out different types of mascara, this set contains 8 mini mascaras, eyelash curler, lash fibers, and a liner. This list is courtesy of sephora.com:
– 0.1 oz Benefit Roller Lash Mascara
– 0.08 oz Blinc Mascara
– 0.20 oz Buxom® Lash Mascara
– 0.002 oz Hourglass Cosmetics 1.5MM Mechanical Gel Eye Liner
– 0.51 oz Marc Jacobs Beauty O!Mega Lash Volumizing Mascara in Blacquer
– 0.13 oz MAKE UP FOR EVER Mascara in Smoky Extravagant
– 0.12 oz NARS Cosmetics Audacious Mascara in Black Moon
– 0.01 oz Tarte best in faux extending fibers
– Tarte picture perfect™ eyelash curler
– 0.17 oz Too Faced Cosmetics Better Than Sex Mascara
– 0.06 oz Yves Saint Laurent Mascara Volume Effet Faux Cils
The mascara sizes make them perfect for travel. The rating is not that high, and I don’t quite know why seeing as you are getting quite a bit for the money. For instance, the mini Roller Lash is $12.00 and the mini Buxom retails for $13.00. The recipient won’t have to worry about their mascara going bad or dry, and a wide array of looks can be achieved by what is in this little box.
5. Sephora Collection: Jem and the Holograms Liquid Lip Set, $25.00
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| Image courtesy of sephora.com |
Jem and the Holograms ran in the 80s. For those of us who grew up watching and loving the show, we can be transported back through this makeup collection created for the movie. Let’s be honest; there is nothing like an original, but the colors are fun. You can complete the Jem collection with the eye palette, lipstick, and mirror.
have an idea or set you want to see in an upcoming post? Let me know!
Stay beautiful!
Birthdays & Freebies
The older I get, the less focused I am on doing things for my birthday. These days, I have just as much fun going around town and getting all the “freebies” to celebrate the day of my glorious birth. Okay, glorious may be a bit exaggerated. Anyway, here are some places that treat you on your birthday, as what you may get, since I’m not sure if the items change. If you know of any that are not on this list, post them in the comments!
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Starbucks (for rewards members)
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Drink of your choice. Any size, any flavor.
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Teavana (**If you don’t use the Starbucks reward)
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A free drink or 1oz of any tea. I always opt for the tea. More bang for your reward.
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Ulta (e-mail is sent for members; free sign-up)
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Free Urban Decay travel-sized eyeliner.
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Jo Malone (gifts with any purchase)
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Two sample-sized fragrance of your choice from a set list, and a deluxe travel spray of Lime Basil & Mandarin
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Sephora (for Beauty Insiders)
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One mini sample of velvet matte lip pencil, and one mini sample of satin lip pencil
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Medieval Times
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Free entry during your birthday month. Upgrades are extra.
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Applebee’s
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Free dessert.
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Ten Ren’s Tea Time
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Free drink of choice; must present ID on your birthday.
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Denny’s
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Free Grand Slam valid only on your birthday; must present ID.
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Red Robin (for e-club members)
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Free burger on your birthday. Not sure if ID is required, but better safe than sorry.
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Buffalo Wild Wings
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Free dessert on your birthday.
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Sprinkles Cupcakes
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Free Cupcake.
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Darphynia's Diary 