When I began this blog I made a few promises to myself. One was not to do a specific day of the week post so that I would not be tied to anything in case I have plans. To be honest, things like blogs, journals, and daily accounts of events stress me out because I feel like there is so much pressure. Ok, so what's my point? I decided to do Happy Goodwills-day (like Happy Wednesday but I talk about Goodwill, get it?). Thrifty Thursday was already taken.
So, let me give a slight insight into my life, if you don't know me so well. I am a thrifter.
It began when I didn't have enough money to buy new things, then when I had enough money I enjoyed it because I love items that have history and character. Today I love to thrift because I love the hunt for something unique, I love that feeling of finding something amazing, and I love that just by thrifting I am helping the environment. Have you thought of it that way? As consumers we keep throwing away and buying and throwing it away again to only buy it again in two months. Be responsible-Thrift. (Dibs on making that one a t-shirt.) So I've committed myself to sharing with you the treasures you can find at any Goodwill just by looking. Not all thrift stores are nationwide so I'm using Goodwill to inspire. Today I turned down some very tempting lunch plans to go to the Goodwill near my office. Want to see what I found, friend? Ok.
First, let me start with saying Goodwill isn't what it used to be when I was younger. They weren't very clean and the goods were, well, not so good. There is a slight funk in some stores and some are nicer than others (I'm shaking my disappointed head at you, Destin Goodwill). Also, let me ensure you that I know what I'm talking about- in high school I had my senior pictures taken in some garb from the G-dub and a friend of the family (and Goodwill manager) submitted them to corporate to use as a marketing tool to get a younger crowd shopping for gently used goods. I was named the official Goodwill Ambassador for Wabash, IN that year. So, you are welcome for not charging you for this advice I'm about to lay down for you.
Books.
Where, I say, where can you find such amazing information and titles at such a low price?
(Goodwill Tip: If books got funk, put them in the freezer for a while and it will draw out the smell)
Nancy Strong's Aerobic Slimnastics. Leotard. Shorty Shorts. Mustache. This book has it all.
Now this book is an oldie but a goodie. My sister had a copy and when we got an awesome magazine rack in the bathroom, this book sat there for years. It was literally in our bathroom for years.
(Goodwill Bonus: Memories)
Old things they just don't make anymore.
(Goodwill Tip: Never take anything for face value. It can always be painted)
I was in love with this sewing kit. There are amazing posts on top for your thread and a small drawer for needles. Damn Lucky for me, I left my purse in the car. I can just imagine this painted white on my sewing table.
Next up, the greatest gift you could buy someone circa 1977.
(That's right friend, I do love you that much)
Games.
Let me preface the next game by saying I tried to take a picture of another game to post but luckily I was pushed out of the way by an overly excited child reaching for a Dora the Explorer Doll. I didn't want her mom to think I was taking her daughter's picture so I kept it moving. Down the line I found something better.
When Kevin's Family Left For Vacation, They Forgot One Minor Detail: Kevin. But Don't Worry... He Cooks. He Cleans. He Kicks Some Butt.
Art.
The best thing about Goodwill art is you don't have to like it, you just have to be able to use the frame or canvas for something new.
Sheer Awesomness. (Hiding in the back of course.)
Clothing.
Don't be a snob. I have found more amazing clothes here than any department store. This would include both my vintage Halston dress circa Studio 54 and vintage Fendi sweater dress with matching scarf circa 1984 called. I also scored a white wool Michael Kors winter coat and Oscar de la Renta suite coat. Boom.
I would have bought this coat and the one below it. Son of a Crapbasket Luckily I left my purse in the car.
Mmmm...Mustard.
Wildcard.
There are a large number of items that don't belong in any of the previously mentioned categories. This is just one example.
Darla Dean's Church
How do I know she attends this very tiny church? Read the bottom.
Yes. That's right. Butter Church.
So, that's it for today. I'm sorry there isn't more but there will be next time.
For now may you be lucky, thrifty, and happy.
Also, for the record, I do not approve of buying makeup, delicate lady garments, most gifts, and bread makers from a thrift store. Just don't do it, pal. Don't.
