branching out

When the economy tanks, people tend to fire their landscapers --that would be us. So a few years ago, we decided that we should find a backup money source. (here's where my husband's business sense shines). Since we get paid to cut down trees, we always have extra wood around. He decided we should buy a log splitter and offer wheelbarrows of wood for $20. I'll admit that I laughed -- at first. But we live on a busy street which just happens to be the main road to the local campground. So on Friday afternoons, we push the wheelbarrows out to the street and wait. On a cool or rainy day, it's not uncommon to sell 4-6 loads in a couple of hours. It doesn't sound like much but it adds up quickly.

It's developed into a nice little gig. City tree trimmers now drop their huge logs off at our storage yard, instead of paying to take them to the dump (free wood). We split it and sell it. Around the holidays, I spend 2 or 3 hours a day selling wood. Everyone wants a fire in the fireplace on Christmas eve. Memorial Day? Labor Day? Fourth of July? They all equal great wood sales.

Today I'm thankful for a creative husband and a family who is willing to pitch in when things get hard.

12 comments:

  1. The Spirit of a true American.

    We've also had to come up with some "creative" ways to add to our income.My hubby has laid flooring for people (something he did for a living many years ago). I sell advertising on the side.

    You gotta' do what you gotta' do to keep your head above water. I'm glad it's working out well for you both!

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  2. Great idea. Glad you've found that second source to keep you going!

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  3. My hubby is a music teacher/limo driver/handy-man. I baby-sit at home. We do whatever we can to make ends come close to meeting.
    I love when families come together to make it work!

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  4. That is so smart! Just like a stock portfolio, you're wise if you diversify what you do! That could add up to even more, as people use their fireplaces more to try to decrease their utilities.. Very good thinking!

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  5. great idea. i burn wood to heat the house and there is money to be made. it is cheaper than oil.

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  6. Very creative. Its ridiculous what the charge for a bundle of wood at a camp ground. Win win for everyone if you sell them wood.

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  7. Plan B. Excellent. (For too many people, their back up plan is a lottery ticket.)

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  8. I guess that pays for all the theatre tickets, eh?
    :o)
    Great idea!

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  9. naw...i organize groups for all those theatre shows. the coordinator always goes for free. win, win - the group gets discounted tickets and i get to see all the best shows.

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  10. Thanks for stopping by and wishing Big Al a happy birthday!
    He got the 48 well wishes!

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  11. I had to come by and say hello after seeing your avataar, my little dog looks exactly like that and she has a santa hat too at christmas time ;)

    Blessings of peace and love to you and yours,

    Maithri

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  12. i'm glad i could add to your supply of wood :)

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