Thursday, September 01, 2022
Inflation: Oy Vey, Since When Did Dental Floss Go Up To Almost $10.00?!?
I went to Target last week to pick up a few things and was SHOCKED to see the price increase on the dental floss that I use, which comes in a 2-pack.
*note: I remember not long ago, when I paid $4.95 for this same value pack...
In fact, I was so shocked at the price increase, I blurted out to the woman who was standing next to me in the aisle, "Well...I never thought I'd see the day when I would be paying almost TEN DOLLARS for dental floss!?!" And she agreed. She said that every time she goes to buy something, the price is significantly higher than before.
Here, take a look at the wrinkled receipt that I dug out of my trash can. Notice how the dental floss is more expensive than the toothpaste. Also notice that the toothpaste is taxed, but not the dental floss. Which is confusing because both of those items are specifically listed on the PA non-taxable "cosmetic" list.
Between the two, the total came to: $18.42.
And that doesn't include the two different mouthwashes I use daily - one to keep my gums healthy ($10.50), and one to reduce tooth stains ($8.99). And just to prove how OCD I am about oral care, I also use GUM Proxabrush Go-Betweens to help reduce plague between my teeth ($9.29).
$18.42
$10.50
$8.99
$9.29
--------
So if you total everything up, I spend $47. 20 (plus tax) on oral care per month (I brush, floss, and use a mouthwash after every meal).
And at the rate these prices are inflating, it'll be cheaper for me to just let my teeth rot out of my head and spend the rest of my life eating jarred baby food.
And speaking of food, I'm sure you've all noticed the huge price increases at your grocery stores.
OMG, have you seen the price of a single avocado?!?!?!
As you all know, I worship avocados and eat one everyday. I get them at Trader Joe's because they normally offer the best prices. However, they have now escalated to OVER $3.00 per avocado, whereas before I could get them for $1.49. But I refuse to give up (or cut back) on my passion for avocados, so I purchase them anyway.
And another price increase I've noticed is bottled water.
I drink a lot of water. Particularly during the hot, humid summer months. In fact, I am like a camel when it comes to drinking water. I usually carry a 16.9 oz. bottle in my backpack whenever I'm out and about, and also at work. My job entails a lot of talking; therefore, my throat gets dry. Besides, where I work, the A/C barely functions, so it's hotter than a seat in hell.
Sometimes I'll run into Walgreens or Rite-Aid to grab a bottle of water before work or on my lunch break. I used to purchase a bottle anywhere from $1.65 - $1.95. Yet, now they're priced anywhere from $2.69 - $2.99 and over.
Oh, and one last thing. Gas prices.
I can't imagine still owning a car and filling the gas tank because I've heard how high the price of gas has climbed. At one point, my store manager (who drives to work) told me that gas in New Jersey was OVER $5.00 per gallon at the pumps.
Yes, inflation has been very challenging for all of us. Hopefully in the new year, things will start to swing back the other way. And I emphasize the word, hopefully.
Fingers crossed...
*Have any of your favorite items (food or otherwise) gone sky-high?
Eggs are one I can't get over!! Once a dollar forty-nine a doz. Now, the same birds are laying "golden" eggs!!...nearly $5 a doz. At one time eggs were a "poor man's" staple. Soon, a bank loan will be needed for one bag of groceries. Wait!!! That loan will cost you dearly what with interest sky-rocketing.
ReplyDeleteThankfully we can still pay the prices but I can't help but think of families and how they are suffering thru all this corporate greed and price gouging. Inflation has hit us all. Not just food, but everything. I am not one who sees the light at the end of the tunnel yet
http://hootin--anni.blogspot.com
" but I can't help but think of families and how they are suffering thru all this corporate greed and price gouging."
ReplyDeleteAnni, I think the same thing!!!! I don't know how couples with a family to feed are doing it?!? And you're right, it's not just food, but everything. Someone I work with flew to Ireland with her husband over the summer and when she told me the price of the airline tickets for the two of them, I just about fainted.
"Soon, a bank loan will be needed for one bag of groceries. Wait!!! That loan will cost you dearly what with interest sky-rocketing."
HA! OMG, I laughed out loud at that because I've said the same thing to friends. And honestly, it's probably not far from the truth!
Always great reading your comments, my friend. Have a terrific day and weekend!
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"And at the rate these prices are inflating, it'll be cheaper for me to just let my teeth rot out of my head and spend the rest of my life eating jarred baby food." Ron, that (and the photo) cracked me up! You're a hoot!
ReplyDeleteOh dear lord, where do I start? I don't know why I'm surprised when I go to the grocery store every week and see the price increases, but I am. And it's not a small increase either, it's like MANY DOLLAR increases. I shop at Trader Joe's as well, and like you, I've witnessed their prices inflating - each week. Another thing are paper products - TP, paper towels, napkins, etc. It's crazy. Even the value packs are no longer value packs. Gas prices (where I live, anyway) are still higher than what they used to be. I'm much more conscious about how much I use my car. You should be very happy you don't have an automobile. It's one lessbig expense. I read an article online that said higher prices will likely last well into next year, if not longer. UGH!
Have a great week, Ron. And thank you for always making me laugh, even when it's a serious topic. xo
Morning, Candice!
ReplyDeleteI couldn't resist that photo. LOL! You're right, they're not small increases, they are several dollar increases. Like with my dental floss - it was almost double the price! When I first spotted it on the wall, I thought perhaps another customer put it back on the wrong display that was for a completely different (and more expensive) item.
YUP!!!!!! I've noticed the same thing when it comes to paper products. And I go through TP like crazy, so I have to repurchase it quite frequently. I've gotten the Target value packs, but I seem to go through them so much faster because the paper quality is horrible.
OMG, I am soooooooooo happy that I no longer own a car. Even when I had a car (21-years ago), I never liked having one because of the constant expense. I am so not a car-person.
"I read an article online that said higher prices will likely last well into next year, if not longer."
UGH, it right!
Thanks for stopping by, Candice! Have a fantastic rest of your week!
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I know!!!! I’ve had to readjust prices in my mind, because I keep thinking dental floss AND avocados cost a dollar!!! Every single time I go to the store, I cannot believe that the prices have increased. Just this week, I saw that the sunflower butter that I began buying last year has gone from $4.99 to $9.79. That pissed me off! And did you know that the Dollar Stores no longer have a thing that’s $1? At least gas prices have come down here. We are at $3.69 and holding.
ReplyDeleteI’m not certain who to blame. My husband’s business can’t get raw materials to make products, so that’s their excuse. I’m also aware of the lack of truckers, so transportation issues. And then there’s a lack of workers in general. People are expecting to make a living wage, but what good does it do them to make $20/hour when a loaf of bread costs $5?
I do suspect that businesses will continue to blame Covid and that nothing will ever go back to pre-pandemic service and prices. We shall see. I hope your holiday weekend is relaxing, Ron. XO
" Every single time I go to the store, I cannot believe that the prices have increased. Just this week, I saw that the sunflower butter that I began buying last year has gone from $4.99 to $9.79. That pissed me off!"
ReplyDeleteOMG....I know, can you BELIEVE that!?!? And the increases are not just a few cents, they're several DOLLARS!
"And did you know that the Dollar Stores no longer have a thing that’s $1? At least gas prices have come down here. We are at $3.69 and holding."
Yes, and it's the same with Five Below (I don't know if you have them in your state), they now are pricing things at $5.00 and above. I sometimes get my phone cases there. And I'm happy to hear that gas prices have come down in your area. God, do you remember in the 90's when gas was $1.50 per gallon?
"And then there’s a lack of workers in general. People are expecting to make a living wage, but what good does it do them to make $20/hour when a loaf of bread costs $5?"
Yes, I think you're right about that because I see that here. Also, the company I work for is having major issues with shipment, or should I say "lack of shipment." We are out of so many products in my store.
"I do suspect that businesses will continue to blame Covid and that nothing will ever go back to pre-pandemic service and prices."
A-MEN!!!!!!! You're right!
Thanks for stopping by, my friend, and for sharing your feedback. Appreciate it. OMG, that's right...it's a holiday weekend, I totally forgot!?! Have a GREAT one!
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Ron, I was just having this conversation with a gal I work with, and we were specifically talking about how much domestic flights have increased in fares. For the price of a ticket that I bought to fly only few states away, I could have purchased a ticket (for the same price) to fly to Europe! I don't drive a car either, so at least I'm saving in that category. But the food prices are insane. And I find that when one price goes down in one particular item, a different item goes up in price. So, we're never getting a price break.
ReplyDeleteI'm a little OCD about oral care too. I've never tried those go-between thingies that you mention, but I will look for them the next time I'm in Walgreens.
Like others have mentioned in their comments, I don't see this ending anytime soon, but I sure hope so.
*fingers crossed*
Happy Labor Day weekend, Ron!
"For the price of a ticket that I bought to fly only few states away, I could have purchased a ticket (for the same price) to fly to Europe! "
ReplyDeleteI know, Daniel, I've been hearing that from so many people. A girl I work with flew to Ireland with her husband and when she told me the price of their tickets, I DIED! One of my clients is an American Airlines flight attendant and she said that the flights are so screwed up, that half the time when she gets to the airport, she finds out that her flights have been cancelled.
OMG, aren't you glad you don't have the expense of a car? I've never been one to like having a car anyway.
And you're right, when one price drops, anther price for a different items goes up. I shop twice a week and my total bills for each visit usually is around 25 to 30 dollars. Now, however, they're averaging 40-50 dollars. And some days even higher, depending on how expensive certain items are.
I LOVE those go-between brushes!!!! My hygienist told me about them, and ever since, I've been hooked. I get mine at Walgreen or Rite-Aid. And be sure to get GUM brand because I've tried others and they are not nearly as good quality. You get 10 in each package.
Thanks so much for stopping by, Daniel. Happy Labor Day weekend to you too!
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Thanks for the tips, Ron. I can't wait to try them! I love to take care of my teeth.
ReplyDeleteYou're so welcome. And me too. In fact, yesterday I had my three-month periodontal maintenance appointment with my hygienist. And my teeth and gums feel sooooooooooo good. I love going to her because she always gives a "goodie bag" to take home with me, filled with all kinds of teeth and gum products.
ReplyDeleteRon, this is all so true, and I imagine the big cities are worse than small towns. Domer said he never thought he'd see the day when a basic meal at Taco Bell was upwards of $10, when it used to be $3! I've been stunned at how much mayo costs -- nearly $5 a jar for fewer ounces than before. And what's with hamburger meat? You can't get it chopped and wrapped on those little plastic plates with clear wrap anymore -- they disguise it in a roll! And what about toilet paper? And milk? And cereal? The misery goes on and on -- and though we'd like to think, when this is all over, that prices will come down, I don't see that happening.
ReplyDeleteI'm blessed to work from home -- no commute! -- so while gas prices are out of sight, at least I haven't had to use my car every day. And it gets relatively good gas mileage, thankfully. I don't see how the average person is affording basics, not to mention luxuries. And yet, everybody I see seems to be quite flush, willy-nilly running through Starbuck's for expensive coffees they could make at home, adding to their tattoo collections, even taking their mongrels to the most expensive vet clinic in town. Oy vey, indeed!! Thanks for a much-needed laugh, my friend -- enjoy the upcoming holiday weekend! xx
Prices are higher here in the heartland, but not as high as living on either coast. Inflation has gotten completely out of control in the last year and our government just keeps spending and offering "free" money. Nothing is free and someone has to pay for it. I don't think anyone can still blame the pandemic. We can only hope sanity and common sense returns soon.
ReplyDeleteYes, Debbie, I think you're right...cities prices seem to worse because everything is normally higher to begin with. And I think our taxes are higher as well. OMG, in some areas of NYC, it's 10% tax!
ReplyDelete" Domer said he never thought he'd see the day when a basic meal at Taco Bell was upwards of $10, when it used to be $3! "
I don't eat fast food myself, but I'm not surprised to hear that. And they used to be the places where you could get a whole meal, cheap;. Not anymore, I guess.
" The misery goes on and on -- and though we'd like to think, when this is all over, that prices will come down, I don't see that happening."
I think you're spot on, my friend. And think a lot of people would agree with you.
And it's so great that you work from home and don't need to commute via your car. Me too, when I had a car, I always got one with good gas mileage. I always owned economy cars too. I had one car that I could fill the whole tank with $20.00 and it would last me a week.
"And yet, everybody I see seems to be quite flush, willy-nilly running through Starbuck's for expensive coffees they could make at home, adding to their tattoo collections, even taking their mongrels to the most expensive vet clinic in town. Oy vey, indeed!! "
Yes, I see that too; especially where I work. I'm wondering how this coming Christmas season is going to be. I bet people get out there and SPEND, contrary to the past two years.
Thanks a bunch for stopping by, Debbie! Wishing you and Monkey are faaaaaabulous holiday weekend!
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I think you're right, Lisa. And it's even more insane in a city like NY. And I love how when COVID hit, landlords were lowering rentals and practically GIVING them away in that city. Now, however, they jacked the prices up so high that those same people had to leave. Even here, I can't believe what they're asking for a small studio apartment.
ReplyDelete" and our government just keeps spending and offering "free" money. Nothing is free and someone has to pay for it. I don't think anyone can still blame the pandemic. "
THANK YOU! My sentiments exactly.
Thanks a bunch for stopping by, my friend! X
Ron, how uncanny! My husband and I were just talking about this while shopping at ACME last night. Dear God, every time we go shopping, things keep increasing in price. Like one of your readers mentioned, the price of eggs is unbelievable!!! As well as milk and butter. And you're right about gas, it's over $4.00 per gallon. Thank heavens we don't use our car much, living in the city.
ReplyDeleteI just about died laughing at the baby photo and your comment about eating jarred baby food. You are so damn funny! I'm curious to know what mouthwash you use for your gums because I'm looking for one.
Like others have said, I doubt this inflation is going to end anytime soon. Example: who do you think will be paying for all the student loan forgiveness? US!
Happy Labor Day weekend, Ron! Aren't you excited that September is here? I already saw fall items in Target and thought of you. xo
" And you're right about gas, it's over $4.00 per gallon. Thank heavens we don't use our car much, living in the city."
ReplyDeleteElaine, I was wondering what the price of gas was in Philly. That's still very high. I can't tell you how happy I am that I no longer have a car. I am so not a car-person; even when gas was cheap.
Yes, the oral gum rinse I use is, TheraBreath Healthy Gums Oral Rinse. It not only is good for keeping gums healthy, but it also deters plaque and tartar buildup. I've seen a big difference since using it several years ago. My hygienist even uses it. I get it at either Walgreens or Target. And sometimes, it goes on SALE.
Exactly, who do you think is paying for the student loan forgiveness....US!
Happy Labor Day weekend to you, neighbor! And OMG....I am soooooooooo excited that September is here, you bet! And I spotted fall items in Target as well. I immediately smiled :)
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Hi Ron, You and everyone else who commented are so right about prices going up on everything. We notice the dairy price increases and look for sales in the two local supermarkets, which we sometimes find. Yikes on those hikes in dental products, thankfully I have a supply of dental floss bought earlier. Like yourself, I get a bit OCD on dental hygiene. The price of toothpaste is what gets me and the Dollar Tree was previously a good place to get discounts on name brands. Shelves were dissipated the last time I was there and hopefully will be restocked.
ReplyDeleteAvocados have been on sale for 99 cents here in recent weeks, so wish I could send you some😉 as for bottled water, the multi-packs of 24 bottles are what we shop for when on sale, often 3/$10. But we can load these in our car and then cart them to our apt. I realize that being carless could make that hard for yourself.
Produce is where we also notice the highest increases, which is not surprising due to the lack of rain so many places, including NH. We buy local produce in the one of the grocery store and tomatoes were $3 a lb…yikes! We remember when we grew them in our VA gardens, but those days are gone (sigh).
We all are keeping fingers (and toes) crossed for improving days ahead…one day.
Ron, the biggest increases I've seen are food items. You're right about avocado. Also, milk and eggs. I don't eat meat, so at least I save there because meat prices are insane. Another thing I've noticed is rent increases. I didn't get a rent increase for the past two years, but when I got my renewal notice for next year, I couldn't believe how much they raised it. I'm grateful that they didn't raise it during COVID, but now it seems as though they're making up for it by raising rents insanely.
ReplyDeleteI'm single, I can't imagine what families are doing to stay afloat during this inflation. And I honestly don't see it changing anytime soon.
I don't eat meat either, Clair, but I have heard from others how much the price of meats have escalated. Same here, my rent wasn't raised for the past two years; however, I did get a rent increase for this next year. But I feel VERY blessed because the increase was only &20.00, plus (because I'm a senior) they give me an additional discount. But when I was looking at apartments in Ardmore, I couldn't believe what they are now asking for a small studio apartment. YIKES!
ReplyDeleteI can't imagine how families are dealing with this inflation either.
Always great to see your comments, Clair. Have a great Labor Day weekend!
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"Avocados have been on sale for 99 cents here in recent weeks, so wish I could send you some😉 as for bottled water, the multi-packs of 24 bottles are what we shop for when on sale, often 3/$10>."
ReplyDeleteWOW...that's great, D! I should probably think about buying bottled water in bulk because I have noticed that it's cheaper. And I remember when I could get avocados for 99 cents too!
"The price of toothpaste is what gets me and the Dollar Tree was previously a good place to get discounts on name brands. Shelves were dissipated the last time I was there and hopefully will be restocked."
YUP....toothpaste prices are insane. I used to use one (for plaque reduction) that increased to $8.99 per tube! However, I found one cheaper.
"Produce is where we also notice the highest increases, which is not surprising due to the lack of rain so many places, including NH. We buy local produce in the one of the grocery store and tomatoes were $3 a lb…yikes!
You're right, produce is where I've seen the highest increases. Lemons (at Trader Joe's), which used to be 25 cents, are now 50 cents. I've also seen it with broccoli (which I eat a lot). It's now almost $4.00 per bag.
Thanks so much for stopping by and sharing your insight on this topic. Fingers crossed that it improves in the next year.
Happy Labor Day!
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She said that every time she goes to buy something, the price is significantly higher than before.
ReplyDeletethat is the truth. i said the same thing to a friend of mine last week. stores keep track and are doing this on purpose. everything is so freaking expensive too. they use inflation as an excuse. a recession just means two quarters back to back could be below the gdp and that below could be just 1%. that percentage is small enough to say we are in a recession. just corporate greed!
"... they use inflation as an excuse. a recession just means two quarters back to back could be below the gdp and that below could be just 1%. that percentage is small enough to say we are in a recession. just corporate greed!"
ReplyDeleteVal, thank you for sharing that because is makes sense to me. And you're right, corporate greed. I see it the cosmetic/beauty industry. Certain brands are raising their prices so high that I truly can't believe it. One fragrance brand that is not only very popular, but was also very expensive to begin with, raised the prices on all their fragrances $15.00 per bottle!!!! Which made some of their fragrances total over $300.00!!!
Thanks so much for stopping by, Val! Happy Labor Day!
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Good morning, Ron! And happy Labor Day.
ReplyDeleteIt is sad and frustrating how much prices have been going up, up, UP for quite a while now. Even before the pandemic hit, I was noticing increases. Of course, there are always a few factors at play. One though is that if people will pay what a company is charging then they'll continue with the increases. Companies do all sorts of things to ease you into helping them make billions of dollars. You've noticed for a long time probably that some change the amount of product you get... oh, it used to be 3 oz, now it's 2 1/2, etc. Subtle changes some consumers don't notice because the box looks the same, but gives them more profit eventually. Many of them do it and very well. Until there is some consumer push back forcing them to offer more sales or whatever, it will continue.
Luckily, we have been able to pay the increases on a variety of things. Some items I won't buy, even though I can afford them. Like the bottled water. We have reusable bottles and can fill up filtered from the fridge. We're already paying for water, so don't want to pay extra. Ron has a jug to take if he'll be out for the day. I will buy store brand vs. name brand on many items or wait for a sale. For instance, one coffee I love is Lavazza. It's normally $10 a bag, price has been that for years. I never pay that, ever! A couple times a year it goes on sale at a local store and I stock up! Right now I have a rain check for $4 per bag!! Even though the Dollar Tree is now the Dollar Twenty-five Tree, I still do buy things there because it offsets the prices I pay on other things elsewhere. I guess if companies can get creative on how to get our money, we can make some changes to try and keep some of it. LOL
FUNNY photo of the baby!!
Goooooooooood moring, Mary! And Happy Labor Day to you too!
ReplyDeleteYes, I noticed prices increasing prior to the pandemic as well.
"You've noticed for a long time probably that some change the amount of product you get... oh, it used to be 3 oz, now it's 2 1/2, etc. Subtle changes some consumers don't notice because the box looks the same, but gives them more profit eventually. Many of them do it and very well. Until there is some consumer push back forcing them to offer more sales or whatever, it will continue."
YUP to all of that!!!! In my line of work, I've noticed that happening and yet, customers are still purchasing these items. Food is one thing, however, I won't pay these astronomical prices for non-essential things that I don't really need, OR can find in other brands that are much more affordable.
I too will buy store brands versus name brands; especially when I can't tell the difference between the two anyway. LOL!
Our Five Below stores in Philly are now Five and ABOVES, although they still keep the same name. I buy certain things from them (like cellphone cases, notebooks, ear buds, etc.) because they are much cheaper than even Target.
". I guess if companies can get creative on how to get our money, we can make some changes to try and keep some of it. LOL"
A-MEN!
Thanks so much for stopping by, my friend. Aren't you happy that summer is finally coming to a close and AUTUMN is coming?!?! I am sooooooooooooooooo excited!
Have a super day!
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"it'll be cheaper for me to just let my teeth rot out of my head and spend the rest of my life eating jarred baby food." ROFLMAO!!!! But no, don't do that Ron, you just had all that work done on your teeth last year and they look so good!!!
ReplyDeleteDude, you said it. The cost of so many things have gone up, up, up! And like many others expressed, I don't see it changing anytime soon. Even our utility bill seems to have increased. We signed a two year lease last year, so our rent hasn't increased. But I bet they increase it A LOT when our lease is up. So many people we know had increases in their rent in 2022.
Hiya Matt!
ReplyDeleteYou're right, I won't let them rot our of my head because I spent A LOT of money last year on them. In fact, I just had them cleaned last week.
"We signed a two year lease last year, so our rent hasn't increased. But I bet they increase it A LOT when our lease is up. So many people we know had increases in their rent in 2022."
My rent didn't increase for the past two years, but when I got my lease for 2022-23, I saw that they did increase it. However, not by much. I've been a tenant in this building for MANY years, so they do take care of me when it comes to rent increases. I don't pay what new tenants pay, so I'm VERY lucky. But I have seen what rents are going for now; not only in Philly, but overall. WOW!
Always great seeing you, Matt! Thanks so much for stopping by!
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Ron, sorry I'm late to the party but I just got back from a vacay. And oh my god....I was so freaked out that my flight would be cancelled because of all the drama at the airports. My flight going was ontime, but the one coming home was THREE hours late. I was lucky to get the tickets early, so I didn't pay a small fortune like so many people have.
ReplyDeleteSo true! It's shocking how much prices (especially food) have risen. Also, paper goods. Funny, Ron, I've used that dental floss before! But WOW....I know I didn't pay that price years ago. I use an electric toothbrush (Oral-B) and love it. Best investment I ever made.
I LOL at the baby photo and your commentary. You crack me up!
I'm crossing my fingers that this inflation at least becomes a little less inflated this coming year. I have seen some prices coming down, but overall, no.
Btw, did you see how rentals in NYC have gone back to what they were in 2019? INSANE! xo
Hola, Denise!
ReplyDeleteNo worries, you're not late to the party....you're right on time! And I hope you had a faaaaaaaabulous time on your vacay!
"My flight going was ontime, but the one coming home was THREE hours late. I was lucky to get the tickets early, so I didn't pay a small fortune like so many people have."
OMG...three hours late?!?! Bummer! But I'm very happy to read that you got a good price for your tickets because I know they've gotten very pricey this year. One of my clients is a flight attendant and she said that her flights have frequently gotten cancelled because of being short-staffed.
You're right, paper goods are very pricey. I normally use Scotts toilet tissue but switched to the Targer brand because it was cheaper. However, it sucks! To me, Scotts is the BEST!
You know, I've been seriously thinking about getting an electric toothbrush because my hygienist said that they are so good at deep cleaning and removing stains. Oral-B is the brand I've been contemplating. I may wait and see if they go on sale at Target and invest in one.
YES!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! I saw a news clip online about how apartment rents in NYC have gone right back up again. And I kinda' figured they would. That's New York!
Thanks so much for stopping by, my friend! Hope you had a Happy Labor Day!
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