For free appropriate sized containers, you can also check with a pharmacist. Many of their drugs are shipped in styrofoam. You also might luck out at a pet store. They receive tropical fish and plants in foam that is 15 x 15" Perfect sizing. I have used both the bimetal and the digital thermostats. The bimetal holds a closer range for me but is harder to regulate. The digital is much easier to regulate, but I find that it needs to be set 1* higher than your target temp, b/c it drops back 2* before it kicks on again. Computer fans are easy to come by: local dump or computer repair shop. 12V DC to AC converters: I find those for $1 each at salvation army. When ever I see one, I buy it, even if I don't really intend to be building a bator! You can gut out a lamp or two for the light sockets. Triple tap extension cords at $ store.
As for getting stuff done this time of the year: Spring, we wait all year for it, then go nuts trying to prioritize the hundreds of things that need to be done. And they all need to be done RIGHT NOW, if not last week! I find myself walking around in circles trying to figure out what I should be focusing on.
