This morning I shoveled the light-weight snow we received early this morning, took Samantha for bloodwork, and then went food shopping. I was up early don't ask why. After we put the groceries away we decided to hit the thrift store. It was nice and not crowded. You really never know what to expect on a Saturday.
I come from a long line of yard sale-ing and thrift shoppers. My grandparents were avid yard sale-ers and collectors. When we were young kids, my grandfather used to get the Saturday paper, gather my sister and I and hit the yard sales advertised where we live. Every now and then he would take us into Manhattan (back when you were allowed to take your car on the ferry). The ferry would dock and we usually drove to a very old and dusty shop downtown. I remember that's where he bought coins he used to collect. Then we would drive back to the ferry, park the car on the boat and come back. My sister and I loved it.
My parents were also never ones to turn their noses up on a passing yard sale, or interesting things on the side of the road. My dad used to often tell me of the great buys his mother would score at the thrift store, like new, warm jackets and shirts for him. My father's mother was of Scottish descent and he always referenced that when he talked about his "frugality" and/or cheapness.
My mother and my grandfather (her father) were always finding and bringing home "stuff" people were putting out for the trash. Bicycles, antique trunks, etc…you name it.
I love thrifting; you never know what you'll find. It's like a treasure hunt in my eyes. I am a fount of useless designer bag and clothing information. Well useless unless you're at the thrift store, haha! If I am unsure of the value of something or want to know more about a brand name, google is my bff. Although there have been many times when google is stumped and I use my thrifting judgment. I've been very fortunate in sorting out what is not quality and what is an awesome deal.
I've had many what my dad used to call a "shopper's sky", meaning it was a great thrifting day. And a great day at the thrift could mean I've found anything that I consider a score. I try to stick to what I know. Jewelry not so much. I have gotten lucky a couple of times but not often. My aunt Marge knew her jewelry and amassed a crazy collection. I try to not let my obsession with bags get to that point although my husband would beg to differ.
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