Call Me Frugal

 I love a sweet deal. One of my sisters-in-law has a saying that, “You can only spend your dollar once,” and she is so right. Becky would be proud of my frugality on Saturday.

My first stop was a swap and shop event at church, an event similar to a big indoor yard sale. No money is exchanged, just “stuff.” I had gathered a few things to swap, including a few articles of clothing, a lamp, a picture, some purses, and a mirror. When I drove into the parking lot, a couple of women who were standing outside came over to take a look at my box of goodies, and one of them took the cute little blue lamp before I even got inside.

When I got inside, I realized that the people in charge were actually packing up. Somehow I got my time confused, for I thought it was to last until noon. No problem. I saw exactly what I needed right away: toys for tots. I made a beeline for the children’s toys and was able to get nine or ten items free of charge…except for the goods I had brought to swap. It gives me great pleasure to think of the tiniest of our granddaughters, those 1 and under, learning to identify sounds and letters.

Perfectly content with my “purchases,” I drove back into the neighborhood and spotted a sign that said “YARD SALE.” I didn’t catch the address so I drove around checking out the pretty yards and flowers until I spotted bargain hunters rummaging through treasures arranged atop a hillside yard: antique furniture, dishes, clothing, wall art, and so forth. To sweeten the experience, there was Sophia, a friend from church. She found a beautiful hall table and mirror and was able to get it for a terrific price. I found a antique stool covered in a lovely tapestry that has found a home in the bedroom. I also bought a pair of festive looking party slacks, a black and white striped blouse, and two magnets…all for the small price of  $29.

Isn’t that amazing? Just think about it. There was something for the grandchildren, a stool for DH to sit on while putting on socks and shoes, party pants for me, and initial magnets for my sister and me. The black and white blouse will find a new home because although it was size M, it must be a child’s medium.

Becky’s right. You can only spend your dollar once. Right now my little blue light is illuminating someone’s house, the pretty floral print has found a niche in Christy’s home, my toy box is brimming with toys, and the fabric covered stool sits beneath the bedroom window…all for the mere cost of $29. The way I see it, now I have a few extra $$$ to spend for Braden’s preschool graduation gift and for Paul’s college graduation gift.  

Author: jayne bowers

*married with children, stepchildren, grandchildren, in-laws, ex-laws, and a host of other family members and fabulous friends *semi-retired psychology instructor at two community colleges *writer View all posts by jayne bowers