just when i was looking for some, lowe's stop selling them. HD doesn't have em either. any idea where i can get them now days?

Pete,
  A lot of stock seems to be seasonal.  I don't know about this item in particular, but that seems to generally be the case.  The good new is that even though it doesn't feel like spring, the stores are starting to change their stock over to the appropriate items.
  One of the pains for me of being a nubie is that I don't know what I need until after I really needed it, and by that time it isn't available.
Jim

united solutions' rough and rugged 10 gal with rope handle is a perfect tub for me. price online is ridiculous... remember paying around $5 before. i need to stock on them next time i find them.

Have you tried Walmart online?

Here's a 17 gallon on Amazon for $12.63.  Free shipping over $35.

http://www.amazon.com/united-solutions-tu0253-Peacock-Utility/dp/B00FDZ8B76/ref=sr_1_2?ie=UTF8&qid=1394397107&sr=8-2&keywords=tub+rope+handle

20 gal is too big. which wouldn't be a problem if i had enough space.

Salvation army and Big lots are your best bet.

Also

http://www.walmart.com/ip/Mainstays-Juvenile-10-Gallon-Rope-Tub-Set-of-6/21690858 6 for < $30

i've been looking at the maninstays tub. 6 for 30 sounds reasonable. i need 12 of them, so.. it's a good deal.