The day started slowly… I was sluggish, lurching my way in the dim light towards the mecca that is my coffee pot. As I raised that first potent draught to my lips I heard a small husky voice, “Mommy, what time do the yard sales start?” “Seven” I told my young apprentice in the ways of all things cheap. Soon there was a knock at the side door. Peering in through the darkness was Agent S. A new initiate into the squad, she had arrived for her ride-along. After a few minutes were spent in outfitting my younger passengers, we set out. Our mission was simple: Locate yard sales with all expediency, assess for desirable items at reasonable prices, procure and move on. Time was of the essence.
Our first stop, a multi-family arrangement one block from our base. We scoped out the goods. I purchased two small Old Navy t-shirts and a hardback book - my outlay - $2. A bit high, perhaps, but I wasn’t awake enough to haggle. Agent S made a wise purchase of a lovely white sweater for a paltry buck. Back into our deal-mobile and we were off in search of bigger game.
Our next stop - the YSC mega mecca - a basewide indoor flea market. Held only a few times a year, this yard sale extravaganza draws commandos from all walks of life. Since my progeny were all strapped in their car seats and reasonably happy, Agent S agreed to stay in the car while my young Jedi and I hunted first. There was bounty in every direction; it was dizzying! Weaving swiftly through countless displays of baby goods, I honed in on a rack of cds here (David Phelps’ first album, mint, $3), a stack of books there. My biggest purchase, a brand new edition of Battleship, still in the shrink wrap, for a whopping $5. Daniel was more conservative, spending a mere 60 cents for a laser gun and a small action figure.
At one table, I picked up two books. One, a trade paperback of quotes (handy for blogging, I thought), the other a large hardback by William Bennett. The quote book was marked $2 and the hardback $5. I wanted them both, but as a seasoned veteran I knew they were over-priced. With a winning smile I lightly said “So, make me a good deal on these!” The vendor glared at me. “I think they’re pretty cheap already.” Well, when it comes to yard sales, I’ve been around the block a few times. I knew this was one tag-sale temptress that was not going to haggle. I put the hard-back down without a word, paid for the quote book (cause I really wanted it) and continued the hunt.
Fast forward… Agent S and I had ventured forth into the labyrinth that is base housing. We were winding our way through the curving streets, homing in on yet another sale when my cell phone rang. It was Agent K, also a mighty warrior of the battle of the bargains. “You’ve got to get over here,” she said, “Call me when you’re within range and I’ll make the rendezvous!” I know K doesn’t mess around. Off we went into the town… A 20 minute drive and the quarry was before me. A beautiful wine-red Pearl drum set. Two toms, a bass, and a snare, with stand for high hats (those would be cymbals) for $130. I whipped out my check book and the purchase was made. Truly a mighty conquest for the yard sale commando!
Total goods: (italics are Agent S’ purchases)
Three books - one for child, two for adult
Five Southern Living cookbooks - mint - to be sold on Ebay
Two t-shirts for children
One child’s microscope
One CD - mint
Battleship - brand new
Drum set
Toy gun and action figure
One sweater - adult
One college textbook
One large painting in quality frame
One decorative cutting board - brand new
Total money spent: $174.85
Tune in next time as the adventure continues!