One Man’s Trash Is Another Man’s Treasure

Something that one person considers worthless may be considered valuable by someone else.

Not only is it just plain frugal, but have you ever been to a thrift store or second hand-resale shop for bargain items which you deem valuable from a preparedness standpoint?

Do you ever go to Salvation Army stores or thrift stores, second hand stores, auctions, or even yard sales? It might be interesting to hear what kind of useful things people have run across at these types of places…

 
I recently got an email from ‘Darren’ who says,

My wife and I love going to a thrift store about 8 miles away. It may sound corny but its exciting to go there when we get the chance. You NEVER know what you might find.

Not just clothing but for instance:

We have found antique meat grinders (the small table top ones) $6 bucks.
Today got brand new crutches $5.

Two weeks ago, almost new foldable walker, $8. Cast iron skillets, pots, pans, extra silverware,food processors etc.

Found a mini crock pot for $3 bucks. Its small enough for a 1 quart meal for two, and uses so little power that almost any inverter will power it.

Oil lamps, fold up card tables chairs, lamps, tons of mirror-backed candle holders, even occasionally camping equipment if you are there at the right time.

I got a 1 or 2 man 6 foot crosscut saw at an auction for $10 bucks. Still cuts like its brand new. I priced one at an antique shop for $150 dollars!!!!

 
Mrs.J and I have been to Salvation Army stores, thrift stores, consignment shops, etc.. and we’re often surprised at the incredible deals we’ve found. I’ll never forget my first ‘foray’ into this realm years ago during a time when our careers certainly enabled us to buy ‘new’ everything – however Mrs.J had convinced me to stop in at a particular thrift shop she had been eyeing (probably for ‘sport’ ;) ). After having browsed through the men’s clothing section, I had an arm full of various clothing… I was shocked that they mostly looked ‘good as new’ and I was about to pay pennies on the dollar for them – and were of a style that I agreed with. I realized that people get a tax write-off for donating things, so why not take advantage of that by being frugal on the other end?

Like they say, “One mans trash is another mans treasure!”

Lets hear from you…
Where are some of the places you have been while seeking out your ‘treasures’?