Spared from the Landfill, a Second Life

An update to Disposable Nation, a Photo Essay.

Most of the books are now at the book swap organized by a co-worker. I kept a few. Jack Kerouac's "On the Road" is now in my reading queue. So is "Little Children" and "The Memory Keeper's Daughter."

In addition to a few of my own shirts, I donated the new martini glass/tray set to the C.A.T.S. Resale Shop. It was lovely, but I already have martini glasses that I use for desserts.

Among the items we found destined for the landfill were a large and small laundry basket. I filled them with the now fresh, clean baby and boys clothes I found along with some toys and brought them to Our Thrift Shop in Westwood. I held on to just a few of the warm fleece items and a Halloween baby nightgown and will donate those in the fall. Remember when donating to small shops to donate what you would be shopping for. Fall/Winter items aren't in demand.



They also accepted the baby car seat. One of the volunteers had a navy stroller-like concoction with no seat, so she hopes this will fit it perfectly.



Our Thrift Shop benefits a local art school in Demarest. But shops like this benefit so much more. The community, which can buy things for a fraction of the cost of traditional retail. And the Earth. All of the items are spared from the landfill and no new production is needed.

Spotted outside the shop. I'm glad the parent of this bike's driver decided to donate it after use. Check out the streamers! The park this weekend was filled with enthusiastic young drivers.

No need to go to a craft shop, Marshall's or other retailer for seasonal fare. Thrift shops are brimming with Easter and spring decorations. Great bargains are to be found, and charities to benefit.

What a precious bunny. Can you imagine if everyone's stuffed animals were thrown out? Just put in a pillow case, wash in hot water, dry and it's ready for endless snuggling for a new guardian to enjoy.

And the move toward a reusable nation continues.