<p>on the music stands: collapsible, definitely, and also useful is one of those bags with a handle you can stow the stand in, very helpful if you are also schlepping an instrument, music, and a bag with a tux in it.</p>
<p>good tips, violadad, about thinking out the luthier issues in advance.</p>
<p>we have a hot air popcorn popper at home. it was very cheap ($25 at target) and has a plastic holder for butter that fits in the top and melts butter with the same heat that pops the corn. it is surprisingly popular with son’s friends.</p>
<p>I have to weigh in on the budget lifestyle. My son has made it through high school with exactly two button down shirts, one rugby shirt, two hoodies, three pairs of khaki trousers and one pair of loafers (plus his tux and concert attire). Believe it or not. The shirts are a little threadbare now so we’ll probably replace them before fall.</p>
<p>Bamboo sheets? Seriously? Do they feel like bamboo (like my yoga mat?) or is this some kind of blend that seems like regular cotton type sheet materials?</p>
<p>Here’s a question for everyone: how about that allowance? what is a reasonable amount? i had to make do with $50/month when i was in college and that had to cover meals out (no sunday dinners in the cafeteria), clothes, smokes, and any other purchases. naturally, i got a part time job. what is a typical students’ allowance these days?</p>