A cut above for less Several years ago during a personal budget crunch, I quit spending $35 on a haircut, bit the bullet, and called Fantastic Sam's. I asked to speak to a manager and told him that I wanted an experienced cutter. After telling me about his own experience, he suggested that I try him. Even though he's the manager, his price was the same as everyone else's. It's a bit of a hassle that advance appointments aren't allowed for haircuts, but I call ahead to find out how long the wait time is. Through Jan. 31, all haircuts are only $10.99 at all participating Fantastic Sam's, but you have to ask for the special price or it'll be $15.95.
White sales It's the lowest price on Bloomingdale's (Mall of America, 952-883-2747) popular sheets by Charisma, starting today. The Gosford 510-count Egyptian cotton ($80 per queen sheet, regularly $125; $60 for standard cases, regularly $95) is a soft sateen. The Supima 380-thread count is about $20 cheaper per sheet and may be a better choice for those who prefer a crisper sheet.
If you've been wanting to try organic cotton, Linden Hills Natural Home (2822 W. 43rd St., Minneapolis, 612-279-2479) has its Under the Canopy 250-thread-count cotton sheets on sale for $117 (queen set) and $135 (king set) in pastels and off-white. Organic cotton towels, shower curtains and flannel sheets are discounted 10 to 20 percent. The sale continues through Jan. 21.
It's a good thing at Goodthings Goodthings is one of the few gift shops where every piece feels carefully chosen. During the Great Giveaway sale today through Sunday, it's even easier to choose multiple items when clothes, shoes, gifts and housewares are discounted 30 to 70 percent. The two stores are at 2184 4th St., White Bear Lake, 651-426-8006 and Shoppes at Arbor Lakes, 763-494-9255, Maple Grove, www.seegoodthings.com.
John Ewoldt • 612-673-7633
