Zapperifics – Arthritis and Stiff Joints

Over the years, we (Howdy & Betty) have accumulated information and tidbits from books, magazines, and articles. Family and friends have shared with us quick-fixes and cures to a variety of problems that we have encountered. We have also heard through documentaries, public television, and radio many facts and useful information which we will post here in a section called zapperifics.  

Our first one deals with arthritis and stiff joints especially when crawling out of bed on winter mornings.

Solution:  Instead of using a heating pad, hot water bottle or electric blanket when sleeping, zip yourself up in a comfortable, roomy sleeping bag. Your body heat will be evenly distributed. This will be safer and no cords or electricity is involved.

Summertime and Garage Sales

Basement, yard, or garage sales have become a summer occurrence just like family reunions, vacations, and trips to the beach. Although the later three rank higher on the ‘fun-o-meter’, garage sales are more on the scale of work. It’s work you hope to be rewarded for in terms of cold, hard cash. But, as with any endeavor, it pays to spend some planning and preparation time. Besides making a little cash on the side, having a garage sale is a way of getting rid of unwanted, no-longer used items filling your closets, garage, attic or basement. So let’s begin.

Once you have determined you have enough objects to make the sale worthwhile, the date and time should be set. If possible coincide your sale with a well-publicized city-wide sale and let their ads bring the people to your area. The key is the advertising. The downside, though, is you share the customers with all the other garage sales at that time. 

If you choose not to match the city’s date, then the advertising is up to you. Your signs need to stand out, so bright colors and sturdy material work best. Poster boards can be cut in half and by using a wide sharpie pen your writing will be visible. Cars driving by have little time to read, so keep the information short. The use of arrows drawn on the same color signs can direct the customers to your site. If your sale is primarily one type of item, list that on the sign. For example, if you are getting rid of baby items….the word “BABY” on the sign will bring the people there. Position the signs in locations that get the most traffic, on key corners even blocks away. Check the city ordinances to see if you can post on poles. If not, check to post them in the yard. (The real estate design works great). After the sale is complete, ALL SIGNS SHOULD BE REMOVED. Advertising in the local newspapers or online are also options.

Display the items so they each can be seen if possible, grouping like items. Although the shopper may quibble with the cost, stickers of your desired price should be present. Stickers can also be used to tally up each person’s profits after the sale if more than one person is in the sale. Pricing should be set to sell the item, if that is the goal. Those that frequent garage sales are looking for bargains and usually take pride in the price they spent for the merchandise. Choose a time to go half price on the items left. Posting a “Free” sign the last hour or two reduces the amount you have to remove when the sale is over.

Supplies you will need include: cash box and “starting money”, bags (plastic or paper) and boxes, newspaper or other wrapping material, tape, writing paper, markers, and for your personal use….a radio, beverages, and sun tan lotion, and extension cord (to show corded items work). 

Greet and chat with those stopping by. Have fun!

If you have had a successful garage sale or a funny story while having one we’d love to hear about it.