Hidden Money

A few days ago I decided that we need to have a garage sale. Why? Well, I have a lot of things around the house that I don't use (or ever intend to) and I imagine that someone can use these things at a great price. About 6 months ago, James and I cleaned out a lot of stuff from our home and donated it to Goodwill. I thought about doing this again, but I had a few objections.

To begin with, I never actually use the tax deductions. While the items are conveniently removed from my possession with one swift trip, it doesn't benefit me or others tremendously. (I know that sounds audacious, but wait, hear me out!) You see, Goodwill is making a lot of profit on the goods that I donate for free. Too much, I think. Goodwill charges about $6 for a pair of used jeans, about $4 for a skirt, $3 something for shirts, and it may sound cheap but I think it's overpriced. I like to think that I am in control of getting rid of my unused belongings while providing spectacular bargains to others! Garage sales are by far a better value than thrift stores for frugal shoppers. This is not a money-making venture for James and I, however we do plan to spend the money we earn on some wardrobe staples. He is in need of a few classic polos and I need some short-sleeved button-up shirts for my work wardrobe (we do live in Florida after all!).

Something exciting happened as I was gathering and emptying out several old purses and handbags-I found TONS of hidden money! I am going to save some of it for change on our garage sale day, and the rest will be our "petty cash". I challenge you to clean out all of your old purses and wallets, heck, even your winter coat pockets. (A ten dollar bill was left lurking in my winter coat last year-what a treat!) You're bound to find something worthwhile.