back to school

Classes officially begin in a little more than a month from now. I am sure not ready for summer to be over.

Of course for the incoming students, things are about to begin. Random Walks leave next week, I believe. And then there is math camp and/or accounting camp for those so inclined. And when all of that is over, CORE (aka orientation) starts on September 6. That really is just around the bend.

A group of three of the officers met to discuss upcoming events for the partners this past Sunday. I think we are well on our way to having a good year. I don't want to give anything away, but it is going to be great! Still lots of work to do though.

But all of it made me think of one of my favorite parts of going back to school: school supplies! I loved packing up my new book bag, filled with fresh notebooks and just sharpened pencils. Even today I am still a sucker for cool office supplies. That said, here are some cool places to check out:

Target: They actually have some cool designs this year. But really my favorite thing about shopping there this time of year is stocking up on their loss leaders -- 10 notebooks for a buck, 64 crayons for 99 cents, 5 gluesticks for 49 cents, and so on. Check out the ads, and arrive early Sunday or go back midweek when they restock.

See Jane Work: Lots of neat items to make your desk a little happier, and perhaps by extension more productive. I haven't ordered anything (yet), but it seems like a cool place (read the bios of the people who started it).

Levenger: They actually have a store in Chicago located within the Marshall Field's on State Street. True executive style. Lots of amazing pens as well as notebooks to help keep you organized. While they tend to be old school (they carry many classic fountain pens), they have kept up with the times and understand that people use tools like PDA's and cell phones. I have ordered from them, and have been beyond impressed. Am somewhat concerned that they are selling more furniture these days, but if it keeps them going, I am all for it.

Green Earth Office Supply: No direct experience with these guys either; found them in the current issue of Organic Style. But when you consider how much paper you use, it probably does make sense to be earth friendly. They sell all natural glue (80 cents for 4oz bottle), as well as rulers made from old tires and milk jugs ($1.20 each).

cb2: Not the first place you might think of for school and office supplies, but they do have some cool stuff (which typically goes on sale) for the home office. These guys are the younger, hipper side of Crate & Barrel (currently they only have 2 retail stores, both in Chicago, but you can order online 24/7).

The Container Store: Again, not the typical place to find back-to-school items, but they too have some neat ways to organize things (think desk sets and bulletin boards). They also have some amazing containers to pack your lunch in (brown bagging it will never be the same).

Lands End: Sure there sell clothes, but they also make bags -- book bags to be more precise. I have a tote bag which I love and has never given me any problems despite all the stuff I have crammed into it. The best part is you can customize and monogram them (so no more trying to find your bag in a sea of black). It's okay to stand out from the crowd every once in a while.

Happy shopping! {But take some time to enjoy these last days of summer too!}


currently reading :: Candy Freak