Winter Clearance

Most stores are clearancing their winter gear...which means savings for you!  Buy coats, hats, gloves, boots, slippers, etc. now for next year.  It may be a little difficult figuring out what size your kids will be next year, so do your best and err on the side of bigger.  Of course, don't forget to first check what hand-me-downs the younger kids can use.  Also check thrift stores for winter gear...often you can score great deals on good name-brand coats.

Happy About Hand-Me-Downs

I hate clothes shopping---it's difficult with three little ones in tow, it's hard to sort through all the immodest clothes to find modest outfits that fit and are cute, and I hate paying $20 for a piece of clothing.  Enter hand-me-downs.  I'm incredibly blessed to have a sister-in-law who loves to shop and is close to my same size.  She gets the "thrill" of shopping, wearing an outfit for a year or two, then when she tires of it, she sends it my way.  She does the same thing with clothes for her sons and daughter, who are handily just a few years older than my children.  We LOVE hand-me-downs at our house. 

Now, you may not be as fortunate as to have a shopping-loving relative, but you can still spread the word that you welcome any and all hand-me-downs.  Many people would rather donate their gently used clothing to someone they know than to some faceless organization.  I have two neighbors that occassionally drop off their son's outgrown clothes, knowing that if I can't use it, I have friends with boys the same age as mine that would also welcome hand-me-downs.

Another option is to organize a clothing swap with your friends.  Make it a fun event where everyone brings clothes, shoes, accessories, and jewelry that they don't want anymore.  You can then "shop," coming home with a new wardrobe, without paying a cent!  Donate any leftover items to your favorite charity.

Easter clearance

Sorry, I should've posted this last week, but things have been a little crazy around here. 

Most stores are clearancing their Easter merchandise for up to 75% off.  NOW is the time to buy any baskets, plastic eggs, egg dyes, cookie cutters, etc. that you will want for next Easter.  If you so desire, it's also a fabulous time to buy those adorable Easter dresses/outfits for next year... just guestimate what size your child will be a year from now.