Now there’s no way we could put together a back-to-school issue without doing a little fake shopping. That’s when we go out and take pictures of things all over town and don’t actually buy anything. It’s better that way. We like to keep our budget for food, beer and nights on the town.
But instead of just randomly searching for stuff that reminded us of school (been there done that), we came up with a list of things needed to start another school year. And we also decided to try to stay within a budget – a pretend one nonetheless.
Armed with $100 and on a quest to get all the necessities, we split up to get it done in one afternoon.
The top priority for day one of the school year is a new outfit and shoes to match. With many great thrift and consignment stores, we hit up Salvation Army and found a shirt and skirt that will make your child feel like a princess – and for only $3.50 combined.
Total: $3.50
Joe King’s basement was our stop for shoes and these groovy slip-on Vans, complete with a peace sign pattern, for just $24.97, was a score we couldn’t pass up.
Total: $28.47
You can’t start the year without a new lunch box and Target had plenty to choose from, but we particularly liked the “Pizza is My Boyfriend” and “Peanut Butter Jelly Time” the best, and for only $7.19.
Total: $35.66
But you need something to put that lunch box in and L.L. Bean’s on sale collection of back packs will do just fine. These ones are more for the little ones (the bear’s feet are pockets) but there are more adult ones too. These are supposed to be $34.95, but with a sale price plus 20 percent off, it was down to $15.99.
Total: $51.65
The pencils, with some hip designs, were just $1 at Ocean State Job Lot.
Total: $52.65
School means the start of fall sports and these used pink shin guards are just $5 at Capital Sporting Goods.
Total: $57.65
You need a little light reading to balance out all that assigned work, so why not brush up on your recess game knowledge with this classic work at Gibson’s Bookstore for $19.95.
Total: $77.60
You’ve got to hold on to those memories, trust us, so a keepsake box is crucial and just $4.99 at Ocean State.
Total: $82.59
If you’ve always dreamed of running a library, this personal library kit from Gibson’s is for you, for the price of $16.
Total: $98.59
And let’s face it, it’s going to be hard to get back into the swing of things so a little sugar pick-me-up is a must, and this Twix was only $1 from the office vending machine.
Total: $99.59
Now we don’t want to brag, but with 41 cents to spare that’s pretty close.