You know what’s asking for trouble? Taking three sugared up kids shopping for school supplies. (Yep, they finally cashed in on that first-day-of-school ice cream I promised. On day four.) But I hit Office Depot with those chocolatey little buggers anyway. Because that’s how I roll.
Since I’ve been working with Office Depot, I’ve been impressed by the savings and variety of styles I’ve seen in the store. I knew Big would find the perfect pencil box — simple and plain — while Little would find something totally outrageous and try to change Big’s mind. You know, like a leopard print case that Big said was really supposed to be for girls. (And 4-year-old boys with pizazz, of course.)
Luckily in 2nd grade, the list of supplies is short and sweet. (Kind of like the students.) Big insisted on the — 2 extra colors per pack! — non-washable markers to ensure that this year is going to challenge me too. We also got a package of disinfectant wipes to send to the classroom for the teacher’s sake. He was so proud to pack up his backpack and take in the goods this morning.
And, at Big’s school, the teacher puts out a wish list on Back-to-School Night. I love knowing what the individual teacher really needs for the classroom and donating a couple extras (an electric pencil sharpener and labeling stickers, this year). What a great way to make a real impact and support teachers who give so much of themselves (seriously, the stats are astounding).
But the real haul? Well, it was for this 2nd grade mama. I’m determined to get organized this year. (Yes, again. But really this time.) I bought a couple file boxes and all the hanging files and folders to go inside. As the co-head-room mom, I’ll be party planning, volunteer begging, and goodness knows what else. With other people depending on me, I want to be sure I get it right.
Let me know how your Office Depot adventure goes. And before you head over there, check to see if your school uses Office Depot’s School Supplies Checklist that provides 5% back to schools and allows parents and schools to earn free supplies to alleviate out-of-pocket expenses for teachers. Teachers can create a School Supplies Checklist with their corresponding school code so that shoppers who use their teacher’s list can help their schools get 5% back for free supplies. Also, if you’re not exactly sure what you’ll need, check out the Office Depot school supply checklist here.
Also, before you hit Office Depot, don’t forget to sign up for the Office Depot Rewards program. It was a quick, simple process, and I’m excited that my back-to-school shopping got me started earning rewards. Plus I’m eager to see what member-specific promotions come my way. (Fingers crossed for Sharpie love!)
Oh, and how did those crazed kiddos do, you might ask? They did great. They even sat in a circle at the checkout counter singing “Row, Row, Row Your Boat” together. You know, the version with the alligator scream? Yeah. So, even if the other shoppers weren’t totally enamored with us, I’ll consider my Office Depot reward points a little pat on the back for making a go of it.
Disclosure: I am participating in the #ODRewards campaign sponsored by Office Depot. For more information, about Office Depot Rewards, visit their website.
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