I was grocery shopping the other day and I noticed that my store of choice was clearing out what was left of the back-to-school items in favor of Halloween candy and decorations. I realize this happens with every seasonal change, but honestly, how many of us take full advantage of it? With a little planning and some smart budgeting, we can grab end of season items that will hold over just fine at about 10 cents on the dollar. I have a good friend that buys up the leftover Easter candy, freezes it, and hands it out to trick-or-treaters. She is one smart cookie–no wonder we hang out together. If she can do that, who says you can’t buy up candy on sale in November and stuff Christmas stockings with it? If you spend a lot of money at Christmastime on paper, ribbons and gift tags, you might want to watch for the clearance sales afterward. And get in this mindset. I’ll bet once you notice what goes on clearance when, it will get your own creative juices flowing.

In case you did not notice, I had a few weeks off from the blog. I took my own advice and did a "staycation" of my own.  I had family come from out of town to celebrate an achievement, and it was wonderful.  Unfortuntely, all good things must come to an end, summer included.  So, back to school it is. But it sure isn't back to school like every other year. There are new  pieces at play in this old game, and every district is tackling the challenges differently.  Many, but maybe not all, of my suggestions from last August (see Is it August Already?!? dated 8/9/2019) will  work for school clothes and supplies, but we have something exciting to add to the mix  this year–masks! I don't want to wear them very bad, and I'll bet most kids don't either. Parents, be patient  with your children. If you or a friend/family member sews, let your child pick out a fun  pattern or two. Check Pinterest. There are also lots of people advertising masks for sale  in Facebook grou