I just got an e-mail from Big Lots that all of their summer merchandise is 50% off, today through next Tuesday. I have found great deals on gardening items there. They have really nice pots & planters at good prices.

Despite having lived in this area for more than 10 years, I just started shopping at Peebles within the past year or 2. I guess it was a combination of higher gas prices and being a new mom (less time) that forced me to take a closer look at this local store.

I like it. Their regular prices on items aren’t so great, but then again I rarely pay regular full price for anything. Their sales are decent, they publish coupons in the regular paper, and my favorite part–their clearance racks. They also usually allow you to use one of the 20% off coupons with the clearance items.

I was shopping for a gift over the weekend so I went there. I perused the clearance racks and was pleased to find that the clearance toddler boys’ clothing was a mix of summer and fall items. Of course, for every rack of boys’ clothing they had 10 racks of girls’ clothing, but that is pretty much how it is everywhere. Moms of boys know this.

I bought two long-sleeved tops for Kevin, very nice quality, for $2.99 each, originally $16. I also got him a fleece zip hoodie for $6, originally $22. It’s a very good quality, thicker fleece. It’s really just one step below a winter coat which I like. I hate winter coats and carseats together.

Anyway, I didn’t post the deals because part of me was thinking that I could have done better. Sure enough, I could have. On Monday I finally got around to reading my little weekly papers, and the Chester County Press had two 20% off coupons in it. I could have saved another $2. Ok, it’s only $2. I’m a die-hard bargain shopper, what can I say.

So if you’re over that way, check it out. The men’s and women’s racks still had plenty to choose from too, but the home stuff was pretty picked over.