| T O P I C R E V I E W |
| Penny Wise |
Posted - Jul 16 2013 : 10:42:34 AM
I started a tradition with one set of my grands where i bought book bag etc -
today i just got the request from "dad" (my son) wondering if i was going to continue the tradition-specially since now there are two in their family in school..of course, i say!
crud!
who else does this????
it will be fun- we'll have an "outing" to do this just the grands and me......
i absolutely love back to school time- guess i just didn't realize it was here already!!!!
Farmgirl # 2139
proud member of the Farmgirls of the Southwest Henhouse
~*~ counting my pennies; my dreams are adding up!~*~ |
| 23 L A T E S T R E P L I E S (Newest First) |
| FebruaryViolet |
Posted - Jul 31 2013 : 10:28:40 AM
Hey gals, if any of you have a Sears nearby with the Lands End section inside, I just scored on a ton of great jeans for Violet (in the kids department) for $4.99 a piece. They were marked down to $9.99 and then an additional 40% off. Lands End stuff rivals LL Bean for quality--and you can't beat that with a stick.
"Hey, I've got nothing to do today but smile..."
The Only Living Boy in New York, Paul Simon |
| Penny Wise |
Posted - Jul 29 2013 : 4:19:04 PM
this thread has been very interesting to read! thank you all!
i have always been a school supply junkie- working in the supply room in elementary school amd again in high school...i fimd it exciting -tho the prices nowadays are horrendous!!!
Farmgirl # 2139
proud member of the Farmgirls of the Southwest Henhouse
~*~ counting my pennies; my dreams are adding up!~*~ |
| Nana Shirl |
Posted - Jul 29 2013 : 3:24:59 PM
Oh for the days of a Big Chief tablet n a box of new crayons...(for me!) snicker snicker..I love big chief tablets..would love to find one..lol Blessings to all you who are trying to get ready for school...My son paid over 500$ in fees plus 700 for cheerleading outfits!!! We used to make our outfits for our girls...20+ years ago...makes me shudder girls...Blessings
You can't get a cup of tea big enough or a book long enough to suit me. ~C.S. Lewis |
| tammyc |
Posted - Jul 29 2013 : 09:32:05 AM
It is so interesting reading about the different back-to-school experiences everyone has and how different things are geographically. We are in California were my daughter will be a sophomore in high school this year. Does anyone else pay the exorbitant "registration" costs that we do? I spend about $300 just to register her....the yearbook alone costs $110, then there are all the donations, the day planner, etc...and if you're doing a sport, just tack on another few hundred per sport. The supplies she needs are minimal, mostly pens, pencils, folders...and each teacher gives her a list after school starts. They don't have to cover their textbooks here...they have a set they keep in class and a set they keep at home which is great. I'm not sure what a messenger bag is, but here they only use backpacks and they pretty much have to be "Jansport" at about $60.....and heaven forbid she use the same one from last year (that is perfectly fine by the way). The clothes for 15 year old girls....don't even get me started....it's like a fashion show. So here comes August, and I can look forward to forking out a big old chunk of change :(
"Be who you are and say what you like because the people who mind don't matter and the people who matter don't mind" - Dr. Seuss |
| FebruaryViolet |
Posted - Jul 29 2013 : 09:15:53 AM
This is my first year for "back to school" shopping. Since she is only in preschool, I'm not going to get too crazy. We start school September 4th and it will still be warm here during the day so I picked up some really sweet things at a high end children's boutique in Georgetown, Kentucky for dirt cheap and that will carry her through mid Autumn and then again in the Spring.
Like Dinah, I have a lot of trouble finding clothes that I think are age appropriate, but also just "comfortable". Some of this stuff is made of the WORST material and forget about the way it looks. I've had great luck at Crazy 8 (the cheaper sister store to Gymboree--online and in malls), Hanna Anderson (you can get at least 2 years out of their dresses. When they grow taller, put some leggings under them!), Land's End, LL Bean and Carters. We have a Carters store nearby.
For shoes, I only buy Clarks. Have been buying them since Violet started walking. She gets about....9 months out of a pair of their shoes, wearing them daily. And they never look worn. I always am able to donate them to charity without any concern.
The only traditions I'm continuing for my wee girl are the following: we shop mostly out of town for things that noone else has and we buy our bookbag from LL Bean. I still have mine from 7th grade!!!!!!
"Hey, I've got nothing to do today but smile..."
The Only Living Boy in New York, Paul Simon |
| Ninibini |
Posted - Jul 29 2013 : 08:30:38 AM
Oh! And just a thought about the book covers for those of you facing that expensive cost... Just like Kristina and I used to do, kids can always still cover their books with brown paper bags, or brown or white paper bought in rolls at the office supply store! Half the fun of covering books was always decorating the paper with doodles, stickers, favorite quotes and autographs from dear friends!
If your grocer doesn't offer the option of brown paper bags, those big thick rolls of paper (used for mailing) cost only about $4 - $6 each, and you can really cover a TON of books with them - they probably would last you a few years. (As a matter of fact, I have a friend who covers her daughter's books with colorful heavy duty gift wrap that she purchases on clearance every year - how smart is that?!) We use ours for covering books, wrapping paper and other projects throughout the year! If you haven't ever covered books with paper, it's easy peasy!
There are many tutorials available online, but here's one I found on YouTube for you: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5ytpQZinpgQ And, again, if you don't have paper bags from the grocer, you can always cut the rolled paper down to size.
Hope this helps a little!
Hugs -
Nini
Farmgirl Sister #1974
God gave us two hands... one to help ourselves, and one to help others!
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| Ninibini |
Posted - Jul 29 2013 : 08:19:35 AM
Oh - I'm sorry Kristina... That was directed more towards Pam and Marianne's comments about missing school shopping. Believe me, if you saw our school bill every year (which is far over and above the school taxes we're required to pay) you'd understand that I am with you... I love the preparation and all the newness and excitement of the upcoming school year, but the bill sure can be tough to swallow! :)
Farmgirl Sister #1974
God gave us two hands... one to help ourselves, and one to help others!
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| FieldsofThyme |
Posted - Jul 29 2013 : 05:24:54 AM
Margo, so glad it all went well. I'm struggling to get it all done in time, as I know the school fees will be approaching me soon. Poo on that.
I did get two new pairs of sneakers at Kohl's so far - one more to go. I get the printable coupon, and wait for a sale. I also found notecards for $.45/each (cheaper than Wal-mart) at my grocery store of all places.
Nini,
I am not sure that I will ever "miss" school shopping. Book covers are almost $3.00/each and the high school kids need 5 each. That alone is $30.00 just for covers that fall apart. As a kid, I used to used good o' paper bags from the grocery store (free) and some tape. Now you can't get paper hardly anywhere. And, as my kids go into high school, they prefer messenger bags vs. a back pack. And then there are the pencils. They each have their own preference. They can't use those old-fashioned wooden ones in school anymore (teacher prefer kids sit in their seats vs get up to sharpen pencils).
Although, despite the high cost of public school, the girls were giggling last night, and planning how to decorate their lockers this year. Ha ha ha! I never thought I see (or hear that), but I am sure they will be complaining once school does start.
I even got out flash cards in preparation of school starting (but no luck on that).
Farmgirl Sister #800
My Life: http://pioneerwomanatheart.blogspot.com/
Recycle Ideas: http://scrapreusedandrecycledartprojects.blogspot.com/
Our Family Store: http://roosterscrowfarm.blogspot.com/
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| Ninibini |
Posted - Jul 29 2013 : 04:40:47 AM
Since we homeschool, new school clothes aren't quite the issue; rather, we are concentrating on curriculum, books and supplies. I can't believe how quickly this summer has past! I am pretty excited about starting school up again soon, though. My son has been working all summer and now that he's older he spends a lot of his "down" time with his friends. I do understand - he's growing up; but I really kind of miss him! LOL!
You know, girls, for those of you who miss school shopping with your kids, there are lots of programs out there where you can donate clothing to children in need. In our school district, we are able to donate money for uniforms, donate uniforms the children have outgrown, etc. There are also various back-to-school programs at local stores where you can donate coats, shoes, book bags, school supplies, etc. And Heaven knows many of our school districts are strapped financially... Many, many school teachers are spending a great deal of their own income to supply their students with supplies and classroom aids. You can contact your local schools' principals to see what you can donate directly to the schools, or even contact teachers you know and gift supplies directly to them to help relieve their financial burden. Office supply stores often have programs available to help schools in this way as well. I know it's not exactly the same as back-to-school shopping for your own family, truly; but I think it would give you great satisfaction participating in the excitement of back-to-school shopping all the while knowing your helping local families and teachers. At this time of year, and right through the holidays, the need is great. Even if it's "just" a few reams of paper, a pack of pencils and pens, what seems like a small thing to you will be making a huge difference to someone in need, believe me. Just some food for thought! :)
It really IS the most wonderful time of the year, isn't it? (Next to Christmas and the holidays, of course!) Everything is so new and exciting... so many little and young minds full of hope... so many blank slates to fill! :) I just love it!
Hugs -
Nini
Farmgirl Sister #1974
God gave us two hands... one to help ourselves, and one to help others!
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| Penny Wise |
Posted - Jul 27 2013 : 7:25:31 PM
today was the day! we originally planned the shopping and lunch-then i got asked to work-then i ended up really feeling horrible..so i left work early and we did the bookbag thing- toys r us had a wonderful deal- buy the book bag get the lunch bag free!so i used the lunch bag money to buy some other goodies for the kids... they were excited as punch to get the goodies and we had a fun hour..they went on to do other errands and i came home to crawl back in bed...we will all have good memories tho!!!!
Farmgirl # 2139
proud member of the Farmgirls of the Southwest Henhouse
~*~ counting my pennies; my dreams are adding up!~*~ |
| rough start farmgirl |
Posted - Jul 27 2013 : 03:58:04 AM
I am like Pam. A bit envious of you gals shopping for your kids and grandkids. The new crayon smell! Oh, boy. That even reminds me that clay and Play Doh all bring back great memories. Enjoy girls. I know it can be tough, but as many of you have pointed out, such great memories are made!
Marianne |
| AnnieinIdaho |
Posted - Jul 26 2013 : 12:28:14 PM
Hi Sisters,
My daughter who is now 35 still remembers our school shopping days. She still remembers how it was just a special outing and that we would buy smart and thrifty and have lunch out. She still remembers that sometimes it was a hardship financially, and she has fond memories of how we did the best we could stretching the dollar. She tells me Mom, you sacrificed a lot so I would look decent at school. And even now today, she is financially secure, she looks for a bargain with quality and long lastingness behind it. In many parts of the world, a few quality items that will last nearly a lifetime are what is invested in and passed down. Repurposing and creativity in making clothes is the norm. We have sooooo much in the way of material items in this country compared to many countries. Anyway, whatever your school shopping tradition is it may become an important memory in your children. Annie
"The turnings of life seldom show a sign-post; or rather, though the sign is always there, it is usually placed some distance back, like the notices that give warning of a bad hill or a level railway-crossing." Edith Wharton, 1913 from 'The Custom of the Country'. |
| sjmjgirl |
Posted - Jul 26 2013 : 07:13:41 AM
Although I looove shopping for school supplies, I HATE shopping for school clothes for my son. He's very tall, so at 11 years old, we're shopping in the men's section. Hard to find things that fit him, yet are appropriate for school. Don't even get me started about shoe shopping! Ugh!
Farmgirl Sister # 3810
Learn the rules so you know how to break them properly.
- Dalai Lama
April is Autism Awareness month. Autism affects 1 in 88 children (1 in 54 boys, including my son). Go to http://www.autismspeaks.org/ to learn more and help Light It Up Blue on April 2nd!
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| gramadinah |
Posted - Jul 26 2013 : 07:05:29 AM
I really love the back to school shopping but I am finding the clothing selection for the Pre school to 3 grade set is not at all to my liking let them be little kids not fashion models.I really am torn on the school uniforms but I think it might be a way for the parents to save money. My mom/gramma made all my schools clothes so I remember the basement of JCPenny's and looking for the fabrics. And always a new pkg of underwear and socks what a deal. Our dollar stores around here have great school supplies I got 10 Elmer glue sticks for a $1.00. All the grands are her for vacation so we have done a bit of shopping but not much.
Diana
Farmgirl Sister #273 |
| coaloha |
Posted - Jul 25 2013 : 9:52:12 PM
I am filled with longing as I read that posts about back-to-school shopping. The kids are grown and there aren't any grandkids yet. This time of year I want to buy crayons and pencils and erasers and dream about what the new school year will hold in store. Time passes so quickly...I might buy some crayons just for the fun of it (and that new crayon smell!)
Pam
Farmgirl #1075 |
| FieldsofThyme |
Posted - Jul 18 2013 : 05:54:22 AM
I know what you mean Margo, every time I buy something, I think the kids will see something else later. They like messenger bags at their age, and we haven't found good ones yet. They have so much weight from their books, I have to look for sturdy ones, or we end up buying two per kid, per school season. I think I found nice ones at Staple's last year. I have yet to get to that store to check. Maybe next week I can.
Farmgirl Sister #800
My Life: http://pioneerwomanatheart.blogspot.com/
Recycle Ideas: http://scrapreusedandrecycledartprojects.blogspot.com/
Our Family Store: http://roosterscrowfarm.blogspot.com/
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| ceejay48 |
Posted - Jul 17 2013 : 1:15:53 PM
Just got some pencils, kid scissors and erasers for Robin's classroom. She likes particular brands too!
CJ
..from the barefoot farmgirl in SW Colorado...sister chick #665.
2010 Farmgirl Sister of the Year
Mother Hen: FARMGIRLS SOUTHWEST HENHOUSE
my aprons - http://www.facebook.com/FarmFreshAprons
living life - www.snippetscja.blogspot.com
from my hands - www.cjscreations-ceejay.blogspot.com
from my heart - www.fromacelticheart.blogspot.com
from my hubby - www.aspenforge.blogspot.com |
| Penny Wise |
Posted - Jul 17 2013 : 09:50:35 AM
oh kristina i understand! i raised my 3 and put two thru college....
my son is worried that if i wait too long to shop with the kids the bags they may want will be sold out - i am afraid that if i hurry- a newer cooler one will come out after! its a racket!
i have always been an office supply junkie..dunno why!!
Farmgirl # 2139
proud member of the Farmgirls of the Southwest Henhouse
~*~ counting my pennies; my dreams are adding up!~*~ |
| FieldsofThyme |
Posted - Jul 17 2013 : 08:31:10 AM
Margo, good shoes here (sneakers) are $50-60.00 each. Wal-mart shoes fall apart in a few months. Each kid needs a new pair, and the school will not allow them to use them on the gym floor, so we parents have to buy a second pair, specifically for gym class. I have 3 in school yet, and one in college.
My college daughter wants to me supply meals, and has asked for rugs for her dorm (or apt.). My school kids will need new book bags, clothes, supplies, and then we have to pay huge school fees. I can't remember what I paid last year, but over the years, the fees have totaled to $300.00 alone.
Try seeking out good deals at office supply stores too. I watch the ads to see when they have the penny deals and so forth, for paper, pens, glue, crayons, etc.
I have to say, I'm not looking forward to it. Our investment in our garden this season is already a loss for us. When I took my 16 yo dd to Kohl's I printed off a 15% off coupon, so everything we bought was discounted on top of the sale prices. I did see that Wal-mart had supplies on sale, but I am sure someone will put out a deep deal sale soon too.
I'm sure whatever you provide in the book bag, it will very much be appreciated.
Farmgirl Sister #800
My Life: http://pioneerwomanatheart.blogspot.com/
Recycle Ideas: http://scrapreusedandrecycledartprojects.blogspot.com/
Our Family Store: http://roosterscrowfarm.blogspot.com/
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| ceejay48 |
Posted - Jul 16 2013 : 5:52:49 PM
Trying to help my daughter, a teacher in a Title I Charter school, gather up things to use in her classroom like composition notebooks, pencils, scissors, etc.
CJ
..from the barefoot farmgirl in SW Colorado...sister chick #665.
2010 Farmgirl Sister of the Year
Mother Hen: FARMGIRLS SOUTHWEST HENHOUSE
my aprons - http://www.facebook.com/FarmFreshAprons
living life - www.snippetscja.blogspot.com
from my hands - www.cjscreations-ceejay.blogspot.com
from my heart - www.fromacelticheart.blogspot.com
from my hubby - www.aspenforge.blogspot.com |
| Penny Wise |
Posted - Jul 16 2013 : 3:36:58 PM
well, see, that's why i only do the book bag-and a lunch bag....cuz i know that those are major investments anymore...
it will be fun.just not ready!
Farmgirl # 2139
proud member of the Farmgirls of the Southwest Henhouse
~*~ counting my pennies; my dreams are adding up!~*~ |
| FieldsofThyme |
Posted - Jul 16 2013 : 3:25:03 PM
We started school shopping today too. I just took one kiddo today. Shoes are not cheap when you have several in school either. We did look at bags, but didn't find any, but found shorts on sale.
Farmgirl Sister #800
My Life: http://pioneerwomanatheart.blogspot.com/
Recycle Ideas: http://scrapreusedandrecycledartprojects.blogspot.com/
Our Family Store: http://roosterscrowfarm.blogspot.com/
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| laurentany |
Posted - Jul 16 2013 : 11:07:57 AM
Margo- I think that is such a neat tradition for your grandkids!
We don't go back to school until September 9th this year here in New York!
However,
I have already bought some supplies that I've seen on sale. There are some deals that are just too good to pass up- and you know the early bird is the one who catches the worm, so I grab em while I see em! (Of course my kids want nothing to do with the tough of back to school) LOL.
~Laurie
"Little Hen House on the Island"
Farmgirl Sister#1403
View my New Blog:
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Don't judge each day by the harvest you reap, but by the seeds that you plant.
~Robert Louis Stevenson |
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