thrift shop

I really love the thrift shop we have here on post. First off, it's really the only place to shop other than the PX (which is like a small department store) and I am just not much of a mall-type shopper. "Vintage" or "Previously Loved" stuff is just fine by me, and really- there is already SO much stuff in the world already, so why not buy and use what is already out there instead of creating a demand for MORE stuff?

This particular thrift shop has a wonderful program in place, called "Operation Giveaway", too. This is where anyone who is ranked E5 and below (basically what is considered "lower enlisted") can come into the store on certain days and choose 10 donated items which are marked $5 or less (the store also deals in consignment, but we can't choose those items), and take them home for free. These days occur 4 times per month. It helps them keep the store from getting overstocked, and also helps the qualifying families out by saving them some money.

We are in this group, as Jason's rank is E5 (Sergeant). And while I would love to NOT qualify, by way of him having a higher rank and earning more money, we do plan to take full advantage as long as he is still E5. And I really do enjoy getting to go into a store and walk out without paying for stuff! I would shop there regardless, so it is really cool when we find items we need for free. This week we went on Thursday and found a few dog dishes, some really great batik fabric remnants (one was hardly a remnant- 3 1/2 yards of gorgeous navy and white floral batik), a nearly brand new board game (Rummikub), 2 lawn chairs for camping, and a dress for me. Daisy and I went back today and got a handful of books for them to read since we didn't find much else we were interested in. We'll just go through and get rid of any books we don't want and donate them back once in a while.

Stella really likes going to the Thrift Shop too- she says it "Ship Shop" :)