Retirement brings a new thinking of using, buying and budgeting. Most seniors have stuff. Often households full of stuff. But can that stuff be useful resources. Of course.
1. Makeup, cosmetics, creams. Many seniors buy those products or are given as gifts.I like the Clinique line and often have many samples from the specials I buy every few months. Instead of buying new, look over all the makeup and products. I rediscovered those multi-packs given as gifts to have several shades of blush, gloss and eye shadow that I could use. Now that I do not work outside the home I don't need small sizes to fit a makeup bag. I can leave the big sampler available on a counter.
2. Are you a crafter? Do you have wool and material and other craft items available? Rather than buy new look over all the available stash and make new products. I went through my misc bag of wool. Several blankets, hats and scarves later either crocheted or knitted I have new items to sell, donate or use as gifts. All from balls that I thought were no longer useful. Now to tackle the material for some quilted and sewed items. Yes the little scraps left over can be used when the grandchildren come over and we can use them in crafts.
3. Your closet is full of clothes. Review and renew your look with items worn very little. No need to throw everything out or give away. An older cardigan can be matched with a new blouse or top. Be aware of styles. As we live longer we know skirts go long, go short or below the knee and back again. Styles recycle all the time. So are there items that can be used again to make that fashion statement. Just because you are a senior does not mean you can not be fashionable. So go to the back of your closet now!!
4. Books. Read your books. But are you swimming in them. Do you have friends or relatives that love to read too? What about a book swap!! Do you have books just sitting on your shelves that will help with those writing projects? Yes so much information is available on line but often summarized! Having a book with an index for a family history article for example is much easier to access than going back and forth to websites or printing! The book is there so can be used over and over again. When the project is finished the book goes back on the shelf. Perhaps reading a favourite book again is not a bad idea. For saving on paying for books. Well there is that great resource called a Library. Also books sales. Like church bazaar often have an used book table. Garage sales may have some too.
5. Regifting is not a dirty word. We all have new items that are not used. Or received a gift that was not our favourite. From those bonus items from a makeup company, how many makeup bags do we need? So at Christmas for those young ladies I have given the new unused bags full of some girl items as gifts. Gift cards can be used for us or to buy a gift for someone else. Having a potential use of them does help with the family budget. Use them. A movie pass means an opportunity to go out and see a movie.
So with a home full of resources, these are just 5 ways to use them. Of course this Senior is thinking and will probably return with some more ideas.
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