Epic Merchandise Blog

We’re all feeling it. High gas prices are costing our families plenty. And those gas prices are adding to our costs of food, transportation to work, and shopping.

But have you considered that even though shipping prices are getting a bit higher too, they may save still us money?

When you order online, you’re saving the cost of driving your car to and from downtown or the shopping mall. You’re saving time too. Time that could be spent with your family, your friends, or a nice long bubble bath.

According to a study done by AAA and published in March in 2007, the average cost to drive a car one mile was 52.2 cents. And that was a year ago! But let’s use those “cheaper” gas prices of 2007. That means, it would cost you $10.44 LAST year to make a round trip 10 miles each way to your favorite mall. Now add your time, and remember that maybe you found what you wanted, and maybe you didn’t.

Shopping online is still a great value. You get great gift choices that you often can’t find locally, can order what you want, and can shop 24 hours a day from the convenience of your home or office.

So next time you shop online, know that you just might be saving more than you’re spending!

Almost everyone remembers a teacher who went the extra mile, and made a difference. This teacher made school fun. This teacher reads to students from “James and the Giant Peach” or “Superfudge,” thus instilling a love for reading or stories. This teacher has an “auction” for neat stuff, with points earned on school work serving as “currency,” and so teaches students how to balance a checkbook. Each day, thousands of creative, caring, and influential teachers toil for the sake of their students.

Each teacher may teach between 20-150 students every school year. When choosing a gift to thank a teacher for their hard work in the face of long hours, challenging students and tedious testing requirements, creativity goes a long way! For ideas on the perfect gift, pay attention when going to school open-houses and parent-teacher conferences. The way your child’s teacher dresses, decorates the classroom, and things on their desk are clues to their personality. Use these clues to lead you to a perfect gift. Be personal, yet not intrusive in your gift giving. Following are ideas available for every interest and hobby.

–A stepping stone for a teacher’s garden, engraved with an inspirational quote and the year makes a wonderful gift.

–A picnic backpack for when the teacher escapes school for the weekend!

–A gift card for a local restaurant or spa gives the gift of relaxation.

–A letter to the local paper copied to the school board, and the school principle shows true appreciation for a teacher’s hard work.

Always check with your school first, as some schools may have restrictions on gifts to staff.

Whatever gift you choose, your effort to make the gift personal, and honestly show gratitude for the teacher’s time and talents goes a long way. Everyone who works long, hard hours appreciates it when someone notices how hard they try. And some teachers really do make a difference.

Applications for the 2008 Epic Teacher Award are being accepted through April 8th, 2008.