This holiday season U.S. Cellular has teamed up with Lifestyle and technology expert, Janna Robinson, host of the Hollywood Hi-Tech show on the DIY Network. Janna is lending her expertise to help you use your smartphone right and make your holiday's happier than ever.
With her vast experience in the world of entertainment, technology, and design, Janna will introduce an easy way to navigate through the new world of applications, available in the Google Play store. Finding delicious recipes, creating shopping lists, and sending all your loved one's unique holiday cards are just some of the apps you can utilize to ensure your home stays stress free in this year's app-happy winter wonderland.
Luckily, I was given the opportunity to ask Janna some holiday tech questions and she has answered them for me and my readers. Check out the video below!!
I hope you learned something new. I know I did. I will and have been using my smartphone to do my holiday shopping.
I want to thank Janna for taking the time and answering my questions. I also want to thank US Cellular for this opportunity. Check out USCellular.com for U.S. Cellular locations near you!
And thanks to U.S. Cellular, I have a wonderful gift basket for one lucky reader. This fantastic basket includes the following fun stocking stuffers:
* Robe
* Slippers
* Bath kit or shaving kit
* Google Play Gift Card
* Tea or chocolate sampler
* USB flashdrive
* Scented candle
Awesome!! To win this basket, just enter on the Rafflecopter widget below!
a Rafflecopter giveaway
Disclosure: I received a sample product for review purposes. No other compensation was given and the opinions in this post are solely mine and are based on my experience with the product. Sponsors are responsible for shipping prizes unless otherwise stated. Please allow 6-8 weeks for delivery of any prizes.
Holiday tip.
ReplyDeleteMake sure when shopping that you stay hydrated and that you have a bit of protein or complex cars with you for energy. (I have water and I bring string cheese with me--one or two slices).
The Find has in store and online pricing tips.
ReplyDeleteSet a budget and don't spend more than you can afford. Homemade gifts mean more than something you just grab for someone.
ReplyDeletepay attention all year long about what excites people. I write it down and never have to ask what they want for xmas
ReplyDeleteMy only real tips is plan and make lists!
ReplyDelete(d schmidt in widget)
I love the idea of putting together your own giftbaskets. The full-size products will be a better array that suits who you are giving it to. And you can put a book or DVD with bath products and include just the right coffee or tea which together will be exactly right.
ReplyDeletePrepare an excel Christmas gift list so you can track what you gave to whom!
ReplyDeletethink about getting the person what they really want or need but will never buy for themselves:)
ReplyDeletejmatek AT wi DOT rr DOT com
Don't take on more than you can handle. Learn to say no and let others help you with holiday tasks like shopping, entertaining, preparing meals, wrapping gifts, etc.
ReplyDeleteNancy
allibrary (at) aol (dot) com
Holiday tip:Spend time with those you love and forget about the ones who hate you
ReplyDeletesave some of your blog wins for gifts and shop ebates, carawling(at)hotmail(dot)com
ReplyDeleteStart your holiday shopping and wrapping early so you don't get overwhelmed!
ReplyDeleteMy holiday tip is always get a gift receipt.
ReplyDeleteAsk the parents of the children in your life what the kids love to do that they don't get to do very often due to the cost. I gave my nephew a day of paintball with his friends and he loved it! Bonus? He invited me to come along and I got to see what great kids he hangs out with!
ReplyDeletetry to get a head start on your xmas shopping in the fall so not so rushed at xmas
ReplyDeleteI like to ask friends and relatives what they like rather than just purchasing something they may not like, want or use. It's a waste of time and money. I've learned from experience.
ReplyDeleteLove3570@aol.com
I keep lists for people in my cell phone so if I am out and see a good deal I can see who I still need to get something for.
ReplyDeleteHave a plan and try to stick with it and get it done early so you don't overspend!
ReplyDeleteThanks,
selinda_mccumbers at yahoo.com
keep spare wrapped gifts in your home in case of emergency. Always have gift cards on hand also in case!
ReplyDeleteseyma_bennett@hotmail.com
always have extra wrapped gender friendly gifts on hand incase of the drop by gift giver comes
ReplyDeleteKeep a list on your phone or in your purse for most efficient gift shopping.
ReplyDeleteKeep it simple - sometimes several inexpensive, but practical gifts in a gift bag make a bigger impression that something large & expensive - know your recipient!
ReplyDeleteWhen you just can't think of anything to give somebody...make them a homemade gift! Homemade cookies, cookie mixes, homemade jam, etc.
ReplyDeleteStart shopping early.
ReplyDeleteChoose who you gift to very carefully: it's better to give your cousin some chocolates than to have a huge credit card bill in the new year.
ReplyDeleteIt's a good idea to write down a list of who you are buying presents for and what you are going to buy them. This way you don't do impulse buying and you'll save money. thx.
ReplyDeleteKeep all receipts in an envelope and store in one location.
ReplyDeleteStart shopping months in advance so when Christmas comes you can enjoy it and there is no panic.
ReplyDeletecjnedrow at gmail dot com
One of her favorite tech gifts was the wireless iPhone speaker.
ReplyDeletecjnedrow at gmail dot com
Keep your eyes open throughout the year for sales/clearance items that someone would love for Christmas.
ReplyDeletestormageddon235ATgmailDOTcom
Give thoughtful gifts.
ReplyDeleteGIVE PERSONALIZED GIFTS
ReplyDeleteI learned that using the find you can compare in store and online prices
ReplyDeleteDon't stress and just learn to enjoy the season~
ReplyDeleteI love to give thank you cards as a gift!
ReplyDeletenickyflowers1978@hotmail.com
For the movie or TV lover, give a Netflix membership.
ReplyDeleteabfantom at yahoo dot com
I Like to give a gift card that I know the person will be able to use. No returns!
ReplyDeleteKellywcuATyahooDOTcom
Always put thought into it and make it personal. I never give gift cards, soap baskets, perfumes, etc., because they don't mean anything.
ReplyDeleteMy holiday gift tip is to start thinking about it early. I have been known to write down lists or make purchases for gifts in August or September. If I know someone would like something, I make a mental note of it, no matter what time of the year.
ReplyDeleteI learned in the video about the Samsung Galaxy.
ReplyDeleteJanna thinks that google shopper is one of the best shopping apps out there.
ReplyDeleteWe stick to a budget. There is a holiday food budget and Christmas present budget. If we have a really tight year, we shop for one person each. Thanks!
ReplyDeleteromapup at gmail dot com
With the Find app you can compare online shopping to instore shopping.This is helpful!
ReplyDeleteromapup at gmail dot com
keep notes
ReplyDeletejessicawedwards@gmail.com
When all else fails Gift cards~
ReplyDeleteWrap a little at a time so it's not overwhelming
ReplyDeleteStart early and "buy ahead." If you're not waiting 'til the last minute, you can find things on sale.
ReplyDeleteI like to have a few small wrapped gifts like fancy soap or decks of playing cards for unexpected guests.
ReplyDeleteSusan Chester
Wrap each person's gifts in their own unique paper. Then no one knows who gets what gift until Christmas. It keeps the kids guessing!
ReplyDelete
ReplyDeletegive yourself Christmas eve off...pretend the 23rd is the last day to shop and wrap.
My holiday tip is, Start shopping in March. That way you are done by September and you can laugh at all the last minute shoppers going crazy for deals. That's what I did anyway.
ReplyDeleteget Gift cards. Avoid all the headaches and aggravation of thinking of what to get and going to stores and waiting in long lines and fighting traffic...
ReplyDeletegift cards for busy shoppers.
ReplyDeleteBuy early, throughout the year. And always have an extra unisex gift wrapped just in case you forgot someone.
ReplyDeleteAlways have a few bottles of good wine on hand for last minute gifts.
ReplyDeleteWatch a movie while wrapping---way more fun that way!
ReplyDeleteyou can find most black friday sales online then you don't have to fight the crowds
ReplyDeleteI always make a list with everyone's names. Then as I buy items I write them down beside their names. Helps me to not over buy.
ReplyDeleteMake homemade treats... I make cookies and buy tins and those decorative boxes and give them as gifts. Everyone loves homemade treats!
ReplyDeleteTo save money on gifts, you can either bake cookies and get inexpensive tins at the dollar store, or do a Secret Santa-type gift exchange, where you pick a name and only buy for that person.
ReplyDeleteI shop for gifts year round. I see something cool for someone I buy and hold till christamss or what ever.
ReplyDeleteShop online. I did almost all of my gift shopping on Amazon. It saved money and aggravation
ReplyDeletejjak2003 at gmail dot com
Start shopping for next year the day after Christmas!
ReplyDeletestart shopping early and keep a budget how much you are going spend on Christmas gift each month and stick to it
ReplyDeleteStart with a budget and a list of who you have to buy for. I like to get a bigger gift for a family instead of separate gifts for each member.
ReplyDeleteericacarnes(at)gmail(dot)com
shop early and make lists.
ReplyDeletedani marie ferriza2(at)yahoo(dot)com
Listen to people through out the year and take notes on what they wish they had...start looking at sales before Christmas and try to get what you've heard them wish for.
ReplyDeleteJust keep it simple when gift giving. Patricia.
ReplyDeleteIt looks like I want the Samsung Galaxy. Love it. Patricia
ReplyDeleteMy tip is to shop for holiday gifts throughout the year's sales.
ReplyDeletejanetfaye (at) gmail (dot) com
you don't have to buy for everyone.
ReplyDeleteStart shopping early and stick to a budget.
ReplyDeleteI learned about the Samsung Galaxy.... if I could afford to get one, that is what I would choose!
ReplyDeleteTry to relax and enjoy the time spent with family!
ReplyDeleteFrom your video I learned that there are some cool coupon apps and neat tech gifts!
ReplyDeleteMake or personalize your gifts, and start early...
ReplyDeletepick something they really need that is my tip
ReplyDeleteI think making a personalized gift basket is a great idea.
ReplyDeleteLook for gifts that give back or, something that is an activity and adventurous. Giving a gift that creates a memory will last a lot longer than just an item.
ReplyDeletePlan in advance and ask for help
ReplyDeleteget gift reciept
ReplyDeleteDon't spend more than you can afford. Handmade gifts are always great too. And it is the thought that counts. :)
ReplyDeleteI took advantage of some cyber monday deals where I could receive free items with my purchase, I was then able to use those items for some planned an unplanned gift giving.
ReplyDeleteAlways keep in mind if the gift requires any "extras".... does it need batteries? Is it a gift certificate that will require tipping on top of it?
ReplyDeletektgonyea at gmail.com
Holiday Tip:
ReplyDeleteKeep all your boxes so if the product gets damage you can return it in the original box. Also keep all those gift bags you can reuse them throughout the year and save $$.
lock any presents in the trunk while parking!
ReplyDeletefrom the vid, to use a smartphone to check prices and if an item is in stock
ReplyDeleteDelegate and always call stores ahead to see if they are stocked. Because I often am not healthy enough to fight the crowds, I often call ahead to have them hold something I want to gift and my husband or daughter will pick it up after work. Saves, time, gas, headaches. Not all stores will do but if you tell them the circumstances they might. I credit the ones that do and nix the ones that won't at least try.
ReplyDeletethanks!
ejrichter60 at gmail dot com
Set yourself a budget and don't go over it. The holidays shouldn't be stressful and it's the thought that counts not the amount of money you spend
ReplyDeletewhen in doubt buy a gift card
ReplyDeleteBefore going out make a plan of the stores you're planning to visit
ReplyDeletertrexel@gmail.com
I start my shopping for next year on 12/26 at the after-Christmas sales.
ReplyDeleteDon't overspend and put yourself in debt.
ReplyDeleteMy tip is to put love and thought into every gift. That's more important than money.
ReplyDeleteset a budget, make a list and shop sales to prevent overspending
ReplyDeleteI learned about all the great Samsung products including the galaxy note ii
ReplyDeleteIt is very important for me to start early. I wrap as I go so that I am not up all night wrapping on Christmas Eve.
ReplyDeleteI always try to get something that will be helpful to the person!
ReplyDeleteMAke Homemade gifts!!
ReplyDeleteI buy all year long so that I can pay cash. If I see something that I know someone will love, but can't buy it at the time, I take a picture so I don't forget.
ReplyDeleteI make a list so I know who to buy for.
ReplyDeleteDon't stress out too much. Things will happen or forgotten, but the main thing is that the holidays are about family.
ReplyDeletemagickalblessings26{at}gmail.com
Throughout the year pick up things on clearance that way you spend less in Dec and save a lot of dough!
ReplyDeleteCrazyweirdo33@yahoo.com
Shop throughout the year!
ReplyDeletestay organized and write down all that you need to do- Dorothy Deakyne
ReplyDeleteMy tip is to remember that it is more important to buy someone something special and something you have put thought into than how much a gift costs
ReplyDeletemorganowl28 at gmail dot com
The only tip that I really have is to start early.
ReplyDeletechoateorama(at)gmail(dot)com
i always prefer handmade/homemade gifts. =) things with meaning
ReplyDeletedrive with care
ReplyDeleteLook thruout the year for special gifts that will mean something to recipent .Don't wait until last minute and just pick something up.
ReplyDeleteOn line price check ,but as I don't have either of the phone or tablet .Maybe sometime this year I will get one or both.
ReplyDeleteKeep a list of who and what you bought. Keep it somewhere for next year so you do not duplicate gifts and maybe something you bought someone else will be a great idea for a different person next time.
ReplyDeletelike2sweep@gmail.com
Beth H
The holidays is about spirit and caring not gifts. Make a budget and stick to it. Thoughtful gifts need to be personal not expensive. Put some effort into the gift.
ReplyDeletediane(dot)wortman(at)gmail(dot)com
From the video, two great shopping apps are The Find and Google Shopper.
ReplyDeleteNancy
allibrary (at) aol (dot) com
Be and Stay Organized Get things done early. Thank you. Jerri Davis
ReplyDeleteMake a list and plan your trip.
ReplyDelete"shop til you drop" is very catchy... but NOT very smart... Remember the budget
ReplyDeleteIf you have youngsters, buy them used gifts like from a second hand store or thrift store. It saves so much money. At our daughters age it doesnt matter whether its brand new or used. Ive even taught my daughter to "share" with other little girls by donating her old clothes and toys.
ReplyDeleteI do most of my shopping online to avoid the crowds & less likely to shop impulsively.
ReplyDeletejofo120 at yahoo dot com
My tip is to not worry over how much you spend or buy...A little is fine and the meaning is not to see how much money we can spend!!!
ReplyDeletestay in your budget then you will enjoy the giving of the gift more
ReplyDeletevmkids3 at msn dot com
I try to notice things during the year that they like. I like gifts to be meaningful.
ReplyDeleteDont deviate from what people like. I have a sister than I get the same thing for every year. One year I thought I'd get her something different and she was disappointed because she looked forward to her usual gift every year.
ReplyDeleteMake a list and check it twice! No really! Make lists for who you need to buy for and how much you're going to spend. That way you can plan a budget!
ReplyDeletecoriwestphal at msn dot com
I learned the Samsung Galaxy S3 is a good buy this season.
ReplyDeleteI learned that you should always check a shopping site, like Google Shop, before you buy, so you make sure and get the absolute best deal!
ReplyDeletecoriwestphal at msn dot com
Don't worry so much about spending a lot of money, but DO make sure you give the person some thought and don't just grab the first thing you think would "work"
ReplyDeleteGive cash, it's easy and everyone loves it.
ReplyDeletehd6719@gmail.com
i keep notes throughout the year whenever i notice a friend or family member admiring something so then i have lots of ideas at christmastime
ReplyDeleteDont stress just take your time!
ReplyDeleteptavernie at yahoo dot com
I love to online shop. No lines, shop at my convenience, and I'm much less likely to impluse buy!
ReplyDeletesweepyhead at gmail dot com
My best Holiday tip is to breathe and not get overwhelmed
ReplyDeleteMine is to have someone else wrap presents instead of me, I'm pretty bad
ReplyDeletekannw27 at gmail dot com
If shopping with kids, make sure you go potty often because if you end up in a line, you don't want to leave because little one has to go potty. Also, be sure you have some paper, crayons, a snack and maybe even some candy in your purse.
ReplyDeletesafety_chick@hotmail.com
I learned about the Galaxy phone. I'm thinking of getting a new phone so this was helpful.
ReplyDeletesafety_chick@hotmail.com
Wear comfortable clothes and shoes to be able to do as much shopping in one day as you can.
ReplyDeletedon't use credit cards!
ReplyDeleteI've never thought about sending greetings cards from my cell. First time I hear about www.justwink.com It looks like a fun app to have!
ReplyDeleteI shop and look for sales all year long so there won't be such an expense for Christmas
ReplyDeletegjsrjs@sbcglobal.net
all it takes is ti listen to what the person has talked about and the gifting is easy
ReplyDeleteMy best tip is to plan what you want to buy for everyone before you go shopping. Searching for a gift when you don't know what you are looking for is no fun.
ReplyDeleteShop online as much as possible. You can save time and money.
ReplyDeletegantzgirl87(AT)gmail(DOT)com
MARY DEBORDE
ReplyDeletezenrei57 (at) hotmail dot com
Holiday tip: Safety!
Keep your car locked and park beneath the parking lot lights, and close to stores/businesses.
If you aren't sure what a person on your list would like them buy them a gift card to the local mall
ReplyDeletes2s2 at comcast dot net
I try to have Christmas gifts purchased throughout the year so my December isn't so full of craziness.
ReplyDeleteMichelle Tucker
gift card. then the person can get whatever they want.
ReplyDeleteI wait for the online sales instead fo fighting through crowds!
ReplyDeleteI learned about the find app. sounds pretty neat I will have to check it out.
ReplyDeleteDo not drink and drive. be a designated driver ( or a designated drinker)
ReplyDeleteI learned about the Samsung Galaxy in the video.
ReplyDeleteMy holiday tip is to shop for presents throughout the year so you don't get overwhelmed with it near the holidays!
ReplyDeleteFrom the video, I learned that the app, the Find, lets you compare in store to online prices.
ReplyDeleteSet a budget is a good holiday tip
ReplyDeleteI'm sorry my sound doesn't work so I couldn't hear anything on the video
ReplyDeleteJanna Robinson Facebook page isn't coming up please email me it so I can like her thanks
ReplyDeletelukens_tara@yahoo.com
If you're buying toys for the little ones be sure to also wrap some batteries for them!
ReplyDeleteRafflecopter: Heidi TextbookMommy
Shop Early!!!
ReplyDeletefreebiegoddess03@aol.com
be nice...period
ReplyDeletedavid heath
Always watch the sales and make a list of peoples likes
ReplyDeletemightynaynay(at)cs.com
Have a budget in mind and stick to it.
ReplyDeleteHoliday gift tip would be to start shopping early and order online to avoid the crowds.
ReplyDeleteuse coupons and don't wait to the last minute
ReplyDeleteardelong2(at)gmail(dot)com
Start now for next year. You can really get great deals this time of year. Buy winter clothes now because they are on clearance and save for next winter.
ReplyDeletesusansmoaks at gmail dot com
tony l smoaks on rafflecopter
make list so you dont overbuy
ReplyDeletetiffany lane
mckenziesmom1@hotmail.com
I like to shop for my gifts throughout the year picking up clearance and sale items. My Christmas shopping is pretty much finished by November.
ReplyDeleteDo not spend more than you can afford.
ReplyDeleteBuy your wrapping paper, bows, and tags for the next year right after Christmas when they are clearanced.
ReplyDeleteFrom the video I learned that I need to check out The Find. I have never heard of it before. Sounds like a time saver!
ReplyDeletealways keep see's candies gift certificates for that last minute person who brought you a gift and you didnt expect it.
ReplyDeleteShop early in the holiday season so that you can enjoy the rest of the season with family and friends but make sure to watch sales prices until Christmas to do price matching
ReplyDeleteI tweeted!
ReplyDeletehttps://twitter.com/IsolatedExisten/status/286942377103458304
Make a list and only buy what you need. do not over spend!
ReplyDeletevikki.billings@yahoo.com
Shop deals year round and match gifts with peoples lists as it gets closer
ReplyDeleteDo your shopping in October if possible. (Corey Olomon)
ReplyDeleteShop year-round to find thoughtful gifts at bargain prices.
ReplyDeletelisa.blogs2 at gmail dot com
My tip is when you buy something and are going to go to a different store make sure you put whatever you bought in the trunk instead of the seat of your car so a thief doesn't see anything tempting. (Roxann)
ReplyDeleteShop early
ReplyDeleteThis year the kids decorated a roll of white drawing paper with holiday designs. Using that to wrap gifts was a great way to personalize our presents.
ReplyDeleteI always make a list before I go shopping and try to buy when the items are on sale. Thanks for this contest!
ReplyDeleteSet a budget and purchase items throughout the year
ReplyDeleteMake sure you get a gift receipt
ReplyDeletemake a list and set a budget for each person on that list
ReplyDeleteCheck clearance aisles for everyday gifts at a bargain price.
ReplyDeleteuse butcher paper to wrap the gifts!!
ReplyDeleteStart shopping early.
ReplyDeletetridingermckee at gmail dot com
Try to buy things during the year when they are on sale and me be a little cheaper wilcarvic
ReplyDelete[at]gmail[dot[com]]
Check online forums & sites for coupons and deals before you head out to shop. tylerpants(at)gmail.com
ReplyDeleteMake bath salts. Easy & people like them.
ReplyDeleteThanks for the contest.
slehan at juno dot com
keep extra gifts on hand
ReplyDeleteslehan at juno dot com
Since you understand how to attract a Sagittarius
ReplyDeletelover, prepare for some action and stay ready to have the full time of your
life.
These are my first impressions.
ReplyDelete