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Frugality

What to Stock Up on in July

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What to stock up on in July. This is my huge list of everything you’ll want to buy in the month of July. Shopping in July for your pantry, seasonal items, what’s on clearance and so much more. Let’s go shopping!

What to Stock Up on Each Month:

This stock up series or shopping by sale cycles started in November 2018. Make sure you go back and save each of the months so you can be prepared all year long.

What to buy in the month of July - stockpiling and savings.

I will be creating shopping lists for every month of the year until I have them completed. You will always know what to stock up on by each month. I strive to have the most comprehensive list for you!

Make sure to read the tips first, especially if this is your first stockpile / sale cycle shopping month!

What to Stock Up on in July

This What to Stock Up On series is so much more than a guide to groceries. I have included bigger ticket items like appliances, grills and other seasonal sale items as well. Some great deals can only be found once or twice a year.

Shopping Sale Cycles – What You Need to Know!

When it comes to stocking up in July, or really any month, it is understanding a store’s sale cycle. What is a sale cycle? I’m so glad you asked! A sale cycle is how stores generally rotate discounted items by areas of interest in a particular month. Generally the sales are retails-wide, meaning all stores will have similar items on sale. I have taken the time to do the research for you, so you’re prepared each month to shop.

What Does it Mean to Stock Up?

For me, stocking up means to “over-buy” items, that I will use all year long, while they are at the deepest discount. I’d say a supply of 3 months or more would be optimal (if your budget allows). Then you are shopping your pantry / garage / attic when you need said item/s instead of paying top dollar at the store.

How Do I Know if it is a Stock Up Price?

Well this will differ from item to item of course; especially when talking grocery vs big ticket. As a general rule I’m looking to save 50% or more for buying multiples for my stockpile.

How Can I Stockpile Without Going Broke?

No matter how great the deals are you NEVER want to put anything on a credit card; that defeats the purpose of saving money. Look for ways you can cut or reduce spending in other areas (like going out for coffee), so you can make a budget for stockpiling. Even with as little as $10 – $20 a week you can start saving up for these amazing sales.

Does Stocking Up Require Coupons?

Absolutely not! I’ll be honest, I am not a huge fan of coupons anymore (see 5 Reasons I Quit Using Coupons ). I find most of the time I’ll buy products that I don’t really use or need because I have a coupon. However if you happen to have a coupon that deepens the discount on the list, use it!
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The Stock Up in July List

Seasonal Produce on Sale in July

BBQ Items to Stock Up on in July

Watch for even deeper discounts AFTER the 4th of July (in the US that is).

  • Hamburgers
  • Hot Dogs
  • Buns
  • Steaks
  • Ribs
  • Ketchup
  • Mustard
  • Mayonnaise
  • Relishes
  • Pickles
  • Paper goods like plates, cups and napkins.
  • Charcoal

Other Grocery Items to Stock Up on in July

  • Ice Cream
  • Popsicles
  • Powdered Milk

Stock Up in July on Camping & Beach Items

  • Sunscreen
  • Bug spray
  • Camping Gear
  • Pool Items like towels, flip flops, noodles, etc will start to be discounted to make room for fall items.

School Supplies to Buy in July

Stores are gearing up for everyone going back to school so you’ll see school supply sections starting with deep discounts. I have a whole article on this topic! See: Back To School Sales.

  • Binders / Folders
  • Notebooks
  • Rulers
  • Pens, Pencils, Erasers
  • Glues
  • Staplers and Staples
  • Crayons, Markers and Colored Pencils
  • Loose leaf paper
  • Construction paper
  • Backpacks
  • Lunch Boxes

Consider buying extra to donate to local church that give supplies to kids in need. Also school supplies can make great stocking stuffers, gifts and are wonderful to include in boxes for Operation Christmas Child!

July Sales – Patriotic Items

  • Fireworks (after the 4th of July)
  • American Flag themed items

Amazon Prime Days in July

Every year Amazon has a 2-day sales event, called Amazon Prime Days. In 2019 these are set for July 15th and 16th. This is like a summer version of Black Friday! Check out the Prime Day Guide for more information!

I share deals BOTH DAYS on my Facebook Page.

So there you have it; everything to stock up on in July. I hope you are able to find these great deals in your area. And don’t forget to set a reminder for the Amazon Prime Days (great tip to start shopping for Christmas!).

What will you be shopping for in the month of July?

Free Self-Care Ideas

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Free self-care? Seems pretty basic, but the modern world will tell you that you have to spend a ton of money, go away or at least go to a spa to enjoy the benefits of a little self-care. But I have 7 free and simple ideas for self-care on a budget; and you can start them right now!

I’ve included a few of my favorite quotes on taking care of yourself throughout the article too.

What is self-care?

Self-care is an extremely popular topic right now, as people learn the importance of taking care of themselves in mind, body, and spirit. This is a chance to reduce stress my friends, and we all need that. The first thing you need to know is that “self-care” is very personal and will look different for each person. For many self-care means an expensive trip to the spa or a weekend retreat. But, self-care can be completely free little things that make a big difference. So if you’re on a tight budget or the foo-foo spas aren’t your cup of tea, I have you covered. Here are a few ideas for self-care without spending money.

Free Self-Care Ideas on a Budget

“Time you enjoy wasting is not wasted time.”
– Unknown

Take a Bubble Bath

Most of us have loved bubble baths since our childhood; but we rarely make time for them anymore. But a simple warm bubble bath is practically free and can whisk away your worries for a time. First, make sure the kids and the pets are all busy, or if you can manage it, out of the house. Then draw yourself a bath and add your favorite bubbles for a relaxing time (or as long as the bubble last and the water stays warm). I recommend budgeting for some quality organic bubble bath, if you can. If you don’t have any bubbles, a bit of shampoo will work too. Consider lighting a candle, putting on some relaxing music, or reading a good book (consider a bath tray to hold your books, etc). Another option, if you want to spend a little bit is to add a bath bomb or make your own sugar scrub. If you’re feeling under the weather add some Epsom salts to the bath for a little pick me up.

Take a Walk

Taking a walk is the perfect free self-care; and it is totally free. It might seem a little strange but the mind gets tired of seeing the same scenery all the time the same way you get tired of eating the same thing. Getting a change of scenery, even for as little as 15 minutes can do wonders for your mental fatigue. Taking a walk somewhere new not only gives your brain new stimulus it also gives you the opportunity to get fresh air and, if it’s sunny you’ll get some much-needed vitamin D. All of these will help boost your mood and melt your stress away. I recommend you take that walk in a local park or in the woods, somewhere away from the sounds of the modern world; a walk where you can enjoy the pure nature. Remember, take plenty of water with you, especially in the warmer months.

“When the well’s dry, we know the worth of water.”
– Benjamin Franklin

Pray, Meditate and Try Yoga with a Youtube Video

You don’t have to go on an expensive retreat or spend a ton on a yoga class to get the amazing stress-relieving benefits of prayer, meditation and yoga. These days you can find it completely free on Youtube. That’s right; you don’t even have to leave your house to give it a try! You may have to do a bit of searching to find the video and creator that best fits your needs and desires, but with thousands of videos available it won’t be hard to find a video that vibes.

“An empty lantern provides no light.
Self-care is the fuel that allows your light to shine brightly.”
– Unknown

Invite Your Best Friend Over

When was the last time you sat around the living room with your bestie chatting or contemplating the universe? Brew a pot of coffee, set the tea kettle on or pour a glass of wine, if that’s your thing; enjoy a mug or a glass with your favorite friend. Is your friend not local? How about calling a friend? Set aside some time to give them a call; make sure they have time to chat first. I have found that setting some time aside to catch up with your best friend does amazing things for your heart and mind.

Alternative? If you don’t have a best friend, consider a close family member.

Unplug from Electronics

I love social media but computers, phones, tablets and TV shouldn’t be invading every hour of our day! Even if you can’t step away for hours, for some fresh air; you can step away from the electronics. Turn off your cell phone / tablet, step away from social media, and unplug. You’ll find your stress levels go down and you won’t feel like you’re in such a rush anymore. Plus there won’t be any “keeping up with the Jones’” to do.

Do Some Gardening

Finally, I couldn’t talk about self-care without at least mentioning gardening; a personal favorite! What’s the say? Gardening is cheaper than therapy, and you get tomatoes.  With a garden, you get all the benefits of being outdoors plus so much more. Studies have shown that gardening can decrease depression and anxiety, teach mindfulness, while also boosting your mood! It also gets your body moving in new and interesting ways. Even if your garden is just a few pots in your window sill, taking care of your garden means taking care of yourself.

Make a List

One of the ways I self-care is to write a list of blessings. This helps me to focus on all the good things going on in my life, instead of the stresses. You just need a pen a paper (or use a word program on your computer). I like to play some happy music during this time too. Some will go as far as creating a gratitude journal; something to do if you have this mental exercise rewarding. Spending time and energy on the good things in your life help you regain a positive outlook without costing you anything financially. It is definitely worth the time and energy.

Alternatively you can try writing in a journal. Many find the daily practice of journal writing very therapeutic. There are even FREE journaling apps.

Self-care isn’t selfish! Take time out each day for a little free self-care with these ideas. And don’t be afraid to take time away when your budget and schedule allows for it. And, hey, if your budget allows for a weekend trip to the spa…go for it!

And hey, guys, self-care isn’t just for the ladies!

How do you take care of yourself? Leave your homemade self care ideas in the comments.

Love yourself enough to set boundaries.
Your time and energy are precious.
You get to choose how you use it.
You teach people how to treat you by deciding
what you will and won’t accept.”
– Anna Taylor

What to Stock Up on in June

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What to stock up on in June for big savings all month long. June is a great month of many grocery store savings, but so much more than that. Now is a great time to make your list, check your budget and go shopping! Remember, it isn’t just food items on sale this month; so check out the whole list.

Be sure to check out all the what to stock up on sales by month:

What to Stock Up on in June

One of the best ways to save money every month is not to shop a list of ingredients but to shop by sales; then shop your pantry, fridge and freezer. June has some great food items! Remember that most stores use sale cycles so you can shop multiple stores for the same types of items. I will do this if I cannot find items I want at my regular store/s; but it is also helpful if the store has any limits on the number of items you can buy in the sale.

You’ll notice that monthly stock up lists and sales have a theme around the season and holiday in that month!

Stocking Up in June Tips

  1. Don’t buy what you don’t already use.
  2. Make sure you have space for your new items. This is a great time to do a pantry clean-up.
  3. Always check the expiration dates before you buy food items.
  4. Organize your pantry by earliest to latest expiration dates.
  5. If you have to put it on a credit card to get it, DO NOT BUY IT.
    See How to Get Debt Free!
  6. Check coupons you have for additional savings.

Seasonal Produce on Sale in June

June is National Fruit and Vegetable Month! So many local farms and manufactures will have sales. Seasonal produce to buy in June:

Be sure to see my Infused Water Recipes

Many of these fruits and vegetables can be canned or pickled! See 75 Free Canning Recipes and Pickling Recipes

June 10th is National Ice Tea Day!

Did you know that June 10th is National Ice Tea Day? I’m ready to celebrate! Look for all teas from bags, loose, and powdered mixes to be on sale!

June – Frozen Aisle Sales

Summer officially starts in June so you’ll see many frozen treats on sale this month. Look for deals on :

  • Ice Cream
  • Frozen Yogurt
  • Popsicles

June is National Dairy Month

June is also National Dairy Month! This is a great time to stock up on dairy products. You’ll find most dairy items on sale all through the month, including eggs if you don’t have your own backyard chickens.

Remember you can freeze dairy items!

Freezing Guide for Dairy

  • Butter – Butter can be frozen for up to a year if it is salted. I prefer to freeze it using Food Saver.
  • Cheese – Cheese can be frozen for up to 3 months. See tips here!
  • Cream Cheese – You can freeze cream cheese but the texture will change after thawing. It is best to use previously frozen cream cheese for recipes vs on your bagels.
  • Eggs – You cannot freeze whole eggs but you can freeze them in many ways. Check out How to Freeze Eggs.
  • Milk (up to 2 months) – Freeze milk in its original plastic container or glass freezer-safe container. You must allow room for the milk to expand so you’ll need to open and empty a bit. Thaw out in the fridge when ready to use it, never on the counter.

June is National Migraine and Headache Awareness Month

Because of National Migraine and Headache Awareness month you’ll find deep discounts on pain relievers.

First Aid Items

June is a BIG camping month and you’ll find first aid items on sale like:

  • Bandages
  • Gauze Pads
  • Rubbing alcohol and peroxide
  • Antibiotic ointments
  • First aid kits

Gym Memberships and Workout Clothing

Ready to get in shape this summer? You’re in luck! Many gyms will be offering deep discounts on memberships (best since January) and stores will markdown workout clothes too.

Gift for Dads on Sale in June

Father’s Day is Sunday June 16th and the stores mark down some great items for dad. BUT don’t be swayed by sales on grills and lawnmowers – June isn’t the best time to buy those.

  • Tools
  • Paint
  • Sporting Goods

June Sales for 4th of July

As the month winds down you’ll begin to see great deals on items for your 4th of July BBQ. Stock up on these:

  • BBQ Sauce
  • Condiments
  • Hamburger and Hot Dog Buns
  • Soda
  • Hot Dogs
  • Chips and Dips

Other Items on Sale in June

  • Dishes and Cookware, thank you wedding season
  • Women’s Lingerie
  • Great movie theater deals
  • Air Conditioners and a/c services
  • Cruises and Travel
  • Out of season clothing (winter and spring)

What are you favorite items to stock up on in June? What tips would you give a new sales shopper?

What to Stock Up on in May

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What to stock up on in May, everything you need to buy in the month of May. MAY IS ONE OF THE BIGGEST LISTS OF YEAR! This is my huge shopping list of sales for stocking up on groceries and other items for the month of May. May is a great month to get amazing deals on seasonal produce, medications for allergies, May holiday items, appliances, pet products and so much more. May is filled with amazing shopping deals!!!

what to stock up on in may

What Should I Buy Each Month?

A smart shopper follows sale cycles…or you can just come here each month to see my monthly lists of what to stock up on every month. Be sure to see other months I have up already: November, December, January, February, March and April

I will be continuing this series every month until I have all 12 months of sale cycle / stock up lists for you. FYI: A sale cycle is how a store rotates discounts on particular items, generally store-wide. What’s great is that most stores follow the same sale cycles; so you can use this list and multiple stores.

Why Should I Stock-up?

You want to “stock-up” on items you and your family use regularly so that you get the deepest discount on those items. Instead of shopping stores for these items every time you run out (paying top prices), you’ll be “shopping” your storage, knowing you got the best price.

10 Tips to Know Before You Stockpile!

  1. Know what you need: inventory your pantry, freezer, cupboards, etc.
  2. Have a storage plan: where will you keep your stockpile? Make use of under-bed storage!
  3. Buy what you already use – don’t experiment because it’s discounted.
  4. Make a plan, make a list and know what you’re buying!
  5. Make sure food items have a long expiration date so they won’t go bad before you can use them.
  6. Consider buying more of items that have multiple purposes.
  7. Be prepared to shop several stores.
  8. Invest in a Food Saver for bulk buying and making smaller “packages”. Also will prevent freezer burn for your meats and vegetables.
  9. Make a budget, and stick to it. DO NOT USE CREDIT CARDS!
  10. Come armed with your coupons and all sales ads. Most stores will accept competitor coupons and offer to match sale prices. Having these can save your gas and time, driving from store to store.

How do I know if it is a good stockpile price?

That can vary but I generally want 50% off or more on grocery items. Now on bigger ticket things, you may not get that deep of a discount. We want rock bottom prices so make sure you checking online, ads and doing comparisons.

The List of What to Stock Up on in May

stock up in may seasonal produce

May’s Seasonal Produce to Buy

Apricots
Artichokes
Arugula
Asparagus
Avocado
Beets
Blackberries
Blueberries
Broccoli
Cantaloupe (See: How to Grow Cantaloupe)
Cauliflower
Cherries
Carrots (See: How to Preserve Carrots)
Celery
Chard
Corn
Grapefruit
Green beans
Greens (mustard / collard)
Honeydew
Kale
Lettuce
Onions (See: Easy Pickled Onions Recipe)
Peas
Peaches
Pineapples
Potatoes (See: How to Grow Potatoes Anywhere)
Radish
Raspberries
Rhubarb
Spinach
Strawberries
Watermelon
Zucchini

May Holiday Items to Stock Up On

Mexican Food for Cinco de Mayo

cinco de mayo food sales

Cinco de Mayo is May 5th and foods for the traditional Mexican holiday will be at DEEP discounts.

Stock Up On These Items:

  • Tortillas
  • Salsa
  • Taco Seasonings
  • Margarita Mixes (check tequila too)
  • Mexican Beers like Corona and Pacifico
  • Tortillas Chips
  • Canned Refried Beans
  • Frozen Mexican Entrees
  • Shredded Cheeses (you can freeze this!)
  • Pre-made Taco and Tostada Shells
  • Nacho Cheese Sauce

Picnic and Grilling Foods for Memorial Day

memorial day sales

Stock Up on These May Items:

  • Hot Dogs
  • Bratwurst
  • Pre-Made Hamburgers (sometimes ground beef)
  • Meats to Grill
  • Buns
  • Condiments like ketchup, mustard, mayonnaise
  • BBQ Sauce
  • Relish
  • Pickles
  • Bottled Water
  • Chips
  • Dips
  • Dressings
  • Supplies to make S’mores
  • Pre-made pies (especially the all-American Apple and Cherry Pies!)
  • Charcoal

Grills, grilling tools and coolers may be on deep discounts in May too!

Paper Goods are on Sale in May too!

What to buy:

  • Paper plates / bowls / platters
  • Paper napkins
  • Disposable cups
  • Plastic forks, spoons, knives

Normally I’m not a fan or user of paper and disposable products, but they are nice to have on hand for emergencies.

Items for Graduates

What to look for:

  • Party supplies for graduation parties
  • Small kitchen items for dorms
  • Mattresses will also be on big discounts in May

Pet Products on Sale in May

May 6th – May 12th is National Pet Week!

What is on sale for pets in May?

  • Food for your pets
  • Pet toys
  • Pet housing
  • Treats
  • Vets and groomers may also have specials running

Stock Up in May on Drugstore Items

Not just in drugstores! Stock up on:

Great Cookie Sales in May Too

May 15th is National Chocolate Chip Cookie Day! Look for these items to be on sale and to stock up on in May.

  • Cookies (not just chocolate chip)
  • Items to make cookies like flour, sugar, chocolate chips, etc.
  • Pre-made cookie dough

Appliances and Household Items On Sale in May

  • Refrigerators are at their deepest discounts (Home Depot offers low price guarantees!)
  • Appliance bundles
  • Vacuums
  • Mattresses (as mentioned above)
  • Outdoor and patio furniture
  • TVs

May is Great for Off-Season Clothing

Stock up in May on winter and spring clothing items as the stores make room for summer clothes.

What to look for:

  • Rain gear
  • Winter and Spring sweaters
  • Flannels
  • Boots

Make sure to check your local thrift stores for deals too as they will need to make room for an influx of new items not sold and yard sales.

May is a time for you to MAKE Money too!

May is typically the start of yard sale / garage sale season. Start cleaning out your house and have a tag sale to make money for your stock-up items.

See How to Have the BEST Garage Sale Ever!

What are your tips for creating a stockpile? Do you shop monthly sale cycles? Share your tips in the comments below!

Ways for Kids to Make Money

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Summer, believe it or not, is just around the corner. Maybe your kids, under 16, are looking for a way to make money this summer. I know my adult kids are pretty entrepreneurial and liked making their own money; now my 13 year old does as well. I want to share some easy ways for kids to make money this summer, or anytime of the year really.

Ways for Kids to Make Money

We Do Not Pay Allowance

We don’t pay for chores. I know, this is controversial to some. But here’s the thing, I don’t get paid to take care of my house or personal responsibilities. I wanted my kids to understand that we do chores because we have the privilege of living in a home and having personal items. Now that doesn’t mean I never give my 13 year old money; but we don’t have a set allowance that she gets regularly.

I think if you want to give your kids money, consider giving them special projects as “side jobs” that you are willing to pay a set amount for.

Why Should a Kid Have a Business?

I know many people will say, let them be kids. I’m all for that; I don’t want to rob anyone child of that short and precious time of childhood. But a business and a job a very different things. A job is working on other people’s schedules and usually involves doing things we don’t like. A business works around your schedule (you don’t see stores opening at your convenience) and doing something you already love.

I also believe that we sell kids short. They have a lot to offer and giving them an opportunity to shine with a money-making business is just one of them.

Honestly, I’d rather my kid be working as an entrepreneur than spending hours playing video games or on a cell phone.

Ways for Kids to Make Money

What are some good ways for kids to earn money? Yes! But before we get into the list of ways kids can make money, let’s talk safety. It should be obvious that you need to make sure that any adult your child “works” for is a safe adult. Personally I think you or your spouse should be with your child during any working situation. Your child’s safety comes first!

Also make sure what laws your city or state has concerning minors and money. For instance, how much money can a minor make before taxes are owed. Most kids are going to make money via cash but that doesn’t necessarily mean they have no tax responsibility.

Kids Making Money Should Save

Talk to you kids about money management before you decide HOW they are going to make money. I personally think you have a huge opportunity to teach life-long financial responsibility with their little side business.

  • Will you require them to save a certain percentage? I’d recommend 10% minimum.
  • Are you tithers? If you tithe to your church then you should definitely talk to you children about tithing. But let them decide, from their heart, if they’ll tithe from their income. The tithe of our finances is 10%, talk to them about that amount and decide if they’ll tithe to the children’s ministry or to the main church tithe.
  • How will kids making money save their money? Opening a savings account can be a great way to teach savings and make younger kids feel especially grown up; they may take the savings more seriously. This also gives older kids an opportunity to learn how to manage a bank account.
  • You may want to consider opening a checking account with older pre-teens as well.

A List of Jobs for Kids to Make Money

This list is just meant to be a jumping off point. Think about what your child is already talented in, excited about, talks about constantly; help them to turn that into a business they can thrive in!

A Service Business for Kids

A Pet Service Business
Pet sitting, cleaning small animal cages, cleaning dog poo from the yard, dog walking, pet grooming (wash, brush, trim nails)
Lawn Care and Weed Pulling
Mowing, trimming bushes, pulling weeds, etc.
Car Cleaning
Washing outside of car, cleaning and detailing the inside of the cars..
House Cleaning
Is your child a great cleaner? This could be a great job for them. Or have them offer “spot” cleaning, like just bathrooms or mopping weekly.
Babysitting
A tried and true way to make money for responsible and mature pre-teens. Consider just offering “mother’s helpers” service when the parents are home but need to get tasks accomplished.
Helping Out of Town Neighbors
Water plants, pick up newspaper and mail, take care of animals
Holiday Helpers
Have a gift wrapping station or help to set up and take down decorations.
Painting
Have a awesome DIY kiddo? Let them offer to do painting.

Sales Based Business for Kids

Lemonade Stand…Coffee Stand?
Why not switch up that old lemonade stand for a coffee stand? If you preteen likes to bake you could offer baked goods too. This works especially well for early bird kiddos.
Yard / Garage Sale
Need to de-clutter? Pay the kids to do that and/or let them sell un-needed items in a garage sale. See How to Have a Awesome Garage Sale

Skills Bases Business for Kids

Arts and Crafts
If your child is artsy let them sell art work, jewelry or other craft projects. Consider opening an Etsy for a larger audience.
Online Business
Start a blog! This can be a way to make an extra income as well as becoming a more proficient writer. This could be a great homeschool subject too!
Tech Jobs
Is your preteen a technically savvy kid? Can they make and edit videos or create a website? What about editing photos? There are so many ways to use the love a technology for a small business.
Sewing and Other Needlework Crafts
If you child can sew, knit or crochet then making small projects like a coffee cozy, aprons or dresses could be a great income. What about a mending business?
Tutor Younger Kids
Help younger kids with reading, math or any subject they have a passion for and are proficient in.

Be sure to see Homestead Kids Businesses Too!

I hope this helps get you and your kiddo started on a business idea that can make a little income. Remember instilling a entrepreneurial spirit now can mean great things for your son or daughter in the future!

Have you help you kid make money with a business of their own? Tell us about it in the comments!