I suspect a lot of returned seed is tested for germination rate and if acceptable repackaged and resold, possibly as some discount brand. You notice the seed packages say packed for such and such a year, not that the seeds were produced in that year. The poster that said the companies don't want their seed sold on clearance sale is also probably right, too many gardeners would catch on that most seed properly stored is good for at least a few years, with some exceptions. However some big box stores have their seed racks sitting in an area exposed to the elements and in direct sunlight, that seed might not be good even in the year the package says packed for. I always pick a packet from the back where the sun isn't shining on it directly.

I think this is probably over. :-) Jen

I did! I found several pair of summer shoes that interested me, but they weren't available in my size. Size 9 must be popular. I'm sure I'll revisit the site. Last week a friend told me about a sale that Sierra Trading Post was offering. It was the last day to get free shipping on orders over $100 and an extra 20% certain sale items. She had a bunch of stuff lined up to order, and wanted to know if I had anything to add to it. I'd been wanting to try Acorn shoes, and found a pair of sneakers I liked. They're called Earthroamers, I think. Originally $88, and with all the discounts I ended up paying $26. I just got them, and they're very comfy!

I have not ordered from here but have many times from the silver site where everything is free you just pay minimal shipping on each and there is no catch or gimmick, all very very nice stuff, you just have to keep watching to spot what you like. I get Christmas stocking stuffers there. http://www.silverjewelryclub.com/default.aspx they will have the matching stuff come up too so if you find the pendant you like if you keep watching the matching earrings or ring etc will show up. I have been buying from that site for many years now and never been disappointed.