Livin La Vida Keto: Second Hand and Resale Stores Rock!

Friday, December 4, 2009

Second Hand and Resale Stores Rock!

In our efforts to live frugally, we have been frequenting the local second hand store for things we need before going someplace to buy it new. We have been able to purchase items needed for a fraction of their retail price and been able to fulfill some frivolous wants in addition to our needs because the prices are so low.
Our latest acquisition was a Christmas Tree. We went looking for some warm clothes for my constantly growing daughter and were surprised to see that there were Artificial Christmas Trees available too. We were not going to buy a tree this year because it cut into our presents budget so we were happy to see that we may be able to afford one after all.
We had budgeted $40 for this trip and had the cash to spend so we weren't using any kind of a card. Regardless of what kind of card it is, we seem to spend more if swiping is involved. We were able to purchase a 7'5" foot artificial tree for $10; new in the box! Along with the tree, we found an air hockey table for $10 for Christmas, a puzzle with all of its pieces for $.75, and 3 pair of pants and a shirt for my daughter. Our total purchases came to only $34.75! The tree didn't have lights on it, but we have our own at home and for $10 we didn't care.
All of the items we purchased were in new or almost new condition and we saved hundreds of dollars by shopping second hand. By budgeting, creating shopping lists, and using cash we have been able to cover Christmas for our entire family this year for a mere $250. This includes food for our Christmas dinner and stocking stuffers. All of our children picked one thing they really wanted and that is what we worked to get them. We have added books from the school book orders and some homemade items. We went to our local $1 store for stocking stuffers and looked in thrift stores for other things. For the food, I joined our local produce co-op and have been able to save a ton on food. And when turkeys were on sale for Thanksgiving, I bought two to save for Christmas. I don't think we have ever had such an inexpensive Christmas. Happy Shopping!

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It's All About the Journey

When I was much younger than I am now, I thought the only way I could be fulfilled as a woman was to become a professional something or other with many degrees and a big salary to match. As the years wore on and my time in my home increased, I discovered how magnificently satisfying it is to create my career at home. I have the ability to expand my horizons unencumbered by bosses and punch cards. I get to be all of me in my own way and time. I have discovered there isn't just one thing I wanted to be when I grew up. My time in my home has given me the gift of transcending a single career track and becoming many things along the way.
Homemaking traditionally was assigned to women, but homemaking is a family affair. Women and men need to be committed to creating the kind of home they want for their families. I wanted to make a place of refuge for mine. A place they could feel peace and contentment and laugh. I wanted to eat good food and use the good china for breakfast. Each choice has been made conscientiously with love and concern for each member of my family. It has been a life long journey and I enjoy it more every day. I am not a maid or a cook. I am not a servant or a laborer. I am a homemaker and proud of it!
This blog is a gift to my children. I want them to have a resource to use as they grow and develop. From recipes to advise, life stories to tricks and tips, I hope it will be a place they come for a long time. You are also invited to join us on our journey. Enjoy the ride!