With Father’s Day right around the corner I’m sure there are many of us hustling to find that perfect gift. Personally I’ve been working overtime trying to find the perfect gift (without going over budget) for each my dad and my husband, in coordination with the kiddos. I lucked out at T.J. Maxx for my husband, I spent $25.00 and bought him two things that he’s really been wanting and needing.

Gift numero uno, the NFL football. Last fall Rob lost his football in tragic incident, leaving his football deflated and un-repairable. He’s been wanting to replace it, but alas, has not gotten around to it. Surprise!

I’m willing to bet I spent less on it than if he were to head to nearest sporting goods store to pick it up. $9.99, compared to $15.99 retail.

The next gift is one that he really needs. I’m not sure when the last time was that Rob invested in a pair of shorts, but I’m certain it’s been a while. All of his shorts, except maybe 1 pair, have a hole, tear or stain on them. I found American Eagle Cargo Shorts, in his favorite color for shorts, for just $14.99, compared to $28.00 retail!

Since I was already in T.J. Maxx and I have this really bad self control issue when it comes to shopping, I had to browse a little further. I found these Calvin Klein shades for just $8.99. I actually needed these, because wouldn’t you know that coincidentally on the same day I was going to T.J. Maxx somebody sat on and broke my previous pair.

Now, just to give you an idea of what other treasures lie within the doors of your closest T.J. Maxx, I’d like to share this next photo. T.J. Maxx is one of my favorite places to shop for newborn props. Seriously, how cute is this?

Getting back to the reason for this post. Let’s admit it, men in general are hard to shop for. They either have everything they want, or what they want is so far in left field there’s no way I’d be able to pull it off. Here are a few more examples what you could find for the dad(s) in you life:

• For the “Techie” Dad: If dad is always in search of the newest gadgets, why not pick up some great accessories to pair with them. Get some MP3 add-ons like speakers, headphones or a leather carrying case to make his music listening experience a special one. You can also grab some fun laptop and office supplies that can make work more enjoyable.

• For the “Sports Enthusiast”: For the sports fanatic in your life purchase  some apparel from his favorite sports team so he can showcase his pride. You can complete the package with a new pair of brand-name sneakers.

• For The Gourmet Chef Fanatic: With summer right around the corner help get him prepared with grilling tools and unique spices. A new recipe book and apron will guarantee a summer full of tasty treats.

• For the “Beach Bum”: If dad is happiest at the beach, help him update those faded swim trunks and worn out flip flops with brand new beach gear.Add in a beach towel and a pair of designer shades to complete the look.

So there you have it! Scoot over to T.J. Maxx or Marshalls tonight and get them taken care of! There is truly something for everyone at low low prices.

Some or all of the material used in this post have been provided to me by the manufacturer or representing PR agency for the sole purpose of product testing. Opinions stated are my own and are not influenced by monetary compensation.

If you are a past reader of Through Hazel Eyes, then you know that I’m always on the lookout for healthy food that doesn’t sacrifice taste. I don’t like lite or non-fat, but I do like to add whole grain and other nutrients in whenever I can. Pasta and I have always had a love-hate relationship. I love how versatile it is and how it tastes with a variety of very fattening different sauces, but I hate what it does to my behind. In addition, it’s always really been just a filler that happens to taste good with sauce, because until now I have not found a pasta that has much nutritional value to it.

This is where Ronzoni comes in. From their website:

RONZONI® SMART TASTE™ is a new member of the New World Pasta family of brands. What’s so special about RONZONI SMART TASTE? It’s the first white pasta to be enriched with Fiber, Calcium and Vitamin D– and lots of it. RONZONI SMART TASTE is an excellent source of Fiber and contains Calcium and Vitamin D equal to an eight-ounce glass of milk. Studies show that many diets are lacking in these three important nutrients. Plus, RONZONI SMART TASTE is lower in calories and fat than traditional pasta. That means RONZONI SMART TASTE is the same great taste — the smart taste –your family loves but with greater nutritional value.

I can tell you with absolute certainty that our family will be using Ronzoni Smart Taste Pasta from now on out. The kids and my husband noticed no difference between the usual and Ronzoni. I prepared it two different ways and it did not phase them, they inhaled it as they normally do on pasta night.

If you visit the Ronzoni website you can find Recipes, Facts, Tips and more. Additionally a $0.75 coupon for your perusal.

“I wrote this review while participating in a campaign by Mom Central on behalf of Ronzoni and received products necessary to facilitate my candid review and photo contest entry. In addition, I received a gift card to thank me for taking the time to participate.”