Keep a list

Do you ever get to a store and come across something that would be perfect at your home? Here's what happens to me sometimes; I'll see that perfect rug, but I won't remember the size I need. Or, I'll see some wonderful throw pillows but I won't know if they're the right size or the perfect red I need. Of course you can always purchase it and return it, but I prefer to be more efficient, especially if you're farther away from home or on a trip. And with gas prices and time constaints, who has time to be returning things? So, I keep a small notebook in my purse, along with a small tape measure (a tape measure that attaches to a keyring are really handy). In the notebook I list everything that I might be looking for along with the sizes, colors, etc. That way, when that perfect item appears before us we can be sure to have a better fit. It still may need to be returned, but at least you're initially more likely to have it work.