At the beginning of the month I like to consult the Consumer Reports sales calender, which tells me what things are good to buy this month because of sales, overstock, and seasonal changes in merchandise. Up this month:

• camcorders
• indoor furniture
• outdoor furniture
• swimsuits

Early July is an especially good time to buy a swimsuit because stores are marking them down but there is still a lot of selection. Wait until August and the suits are mismatched and only XS and XXL are left. On tap for August:

• air conditioners
• backpacks
• dehumidifiers
• lawn mowers
• outdoor furniture
• snow throwers