Buy Clearance and Save the Difference

I am a huge fan of TLC's 18 Kids and Counting. Think what you want to about this family, but they have very well mannered children and are 100% debt free. I find their example of frugality inspiring. Everyday at 1 o'clock I put Jonas down for a nap and Carson and I snuggle up in a blanket and watch their show. Yesterday, their show featured how they saved money by buying their children's clothes at second hand stores."Buy used and save the difference" is their motto. At the end of the show they left the store with a bag full of clothes and only paid $46.

I'm all about saving money, but I never shop at second hand stores. In fact I think my motto would be "Buy clearance and save the difference" I'm not against second hand stores by any means, but I don't see the point in buying used clothes when you can buy brand new for the same price or cheaper. With clothes that have to last through 3 boys, I'd rather start out with something new!

Here's my case in point. I hit up The Children's Place Monster Sale this morning. I walked out of the store with a bag full of clothes... and only paid $27.16. If I would have paid full price, these clothes would have cost $135.17. I got all of these clothes on clearance at $3 each (for the little boys) and $4 each for Carson's. Then I combined the clearance prices with a "15% off of entire purchase" coupon I had.


So thank you Duggar family for your great example of frugality (and amazing parenting, oh and of great faith, too)...speaking of which, its almost time to go watch your show.