We don’t have any flea markets in our area, but one thing that seems to be popping up every month or so is a shop that sells second hand items to raise money for different charities. Last week a resell store opened and all the proceeds go to help the local food shelf. I saw a couple of photos in the local newspaper and it looked like they have lots of furniture and paintings. I haven’t been in there yet, but thought I’d take a look one of these days. There a bit like garage sales...you’re not really looking for anything when you go there, but you always seem to find something you can use.

In this week’s Budget Smart Girl’s Guide I’m featuring pet insurance so if you have a pet be sure to check it out. My cat is due for his annual vaccinations and wellness examination. I know he needs to get his teeth cleaned too. It’s amazing that it’s almost four times the price of getting my teeth cleaned and checked.

The first taste of fall weather had me in an organizing state of mind. I wasn’t sure if I wanted to organize the pantry or my closet, so I finally opted on my closet so I can start to organize the sweaters I know I’ll be needing very soon. Organizing is also a good way to save money. You sometimes think you’ve lost something, go out and buy a new one, only to discover you never really lost the first one. And with clothing you can reorganize it and see what ‘essentials’ you’re missing and buy accordingly.

Speaking of clothes I just received the Chadwicks catalog, you can get a free red jacket with any order. www.chadwicks.com


For money saving tips visit www.gardenandhearth.com/Bargain-Shopping.htm and www.gardenandhearth.com/EatingWellonaBudget.htm