Off-Price Retailers are Your Friend!

I’m back in Florida following the summer in Pennsylvania. I missed it. Up north, our house is in the woods with nothing within walking distance, a stark contrast to being Down Home where we can bike and walk to anything we need which could be a dangerous proposition. See, we live about a mile and a half from two medium sized shopping centers which include Starbucks, Walmart, Publix and Petco, all places I frequent. But there’s also a TJ Maxx. I love TJ Maxx. I get into trouble at TJ Maxx. I have a TJX credit card. If you’re up for a scavenger hunt every few weeks, you can get some real retirement budget bargains! It’s not all clothes and shoes- there are some discounted must-haves that i can always count on finding at a discount. Keep in mind that we are on a budget now, so spend responsibly!

Paper Napkins

I love paper napkins. They are a fast and easy way to make even your lunch of leftovers a fancier occasion. I have a collection of fabric napkins as well, but if you are the type that doesn’t enjoy laundry or the ironing that may be essential for some fabrics, stick with pretty paper ones. I like table cloths and runners also but these should be bought cautiously and sparingly. Remember, we are in Florida to make our lives more happy and simple so don’t clutter it up. If you’re like me and you love sewing, consider a table cloth made of pretty fabric for a homemade top or shift dress.

Hostess Gifts

When in Florida, you may find that the beautiful weather and friendly people can bring out your more social side. You will inevitably be invited to a cookout or drinks at someone’s home on a beautiful mild evening. Shame on you if you show up empty handed! Think candles, jarred olives, a decorative wine bottle stopper with a bottle of wine (you can get them at Walmart and most gas stations, so no excuses). Hell, grab a package of your paper napkins if it’s an impulsive get together- your host will appreciate the party essentials.

Fragrance

This one is a little more risky due to the fact that you have no idea how long they have been on the shelves and what elements they have been subjected to, but I have had some good luck with designer fragrances. There is a particular bottle that I loved at the fragrance counter but wasn’t in the retirement budget. On a trip to Marshall’s, I chanced upon a bottle of it for about a quarter of the price! The box was opened and torn and the luxurious looking top was missing leaving the spray top exposed. Upon a test spray I was pleased that the familiar scent was still intact- time and exposure to heat and light can alter perfumes. I dropped it in to my cart and headed for the checkout. At the register, the cashier (aka my new best friend) commented “Oh, the lid is missing. Let me give you an extra 10% off because it’s damaged”. I was honestly so thrilled that I don’t actually remember saying “Thank you!”.

Please remember to keep your long term goals in mind as you shop. A house full of clutter does not a #temperatelife make!

Erin