Left Behind

As discussed in previous posts, our family did a great job of downsizing our possessions in preparation for our move. We even had to cut a bit more, when, despite Calico’s careful loading, the truck proved a bit too small to hold everything. In truth, there is very little that we’ve missed. Even disposing of the items proved to be far easier than in the past.

We used to donate items to various organizations that had thrift shops. That has become increasingly difficult. Some don’t pick up items, while others require a pickup to be scheduled weeks in advance. Even worse are those that want descriptions of items that are being donated. This means that we have to have a place to store our unwanted items until pickup, organize them into specific categories and create an inventory list for the agency. It doesn’t help with battered furniture or nonworking appliances, which, understandably, they aren’t interested in.

Some years back, our trash disposal service would remove anything that was left at the curb, even old appliances and furniture. Then they began charging a small fee for removal. Eventually, they stopped providing that service. We tried a junk removal service, but the charges seemed exorbitant.

Some friends and family swear by yard sales. Years ago, I tried one, but it required a fair amount of organization and time. And when the sale was over, there were still a sizeable number of unsold items. A friend’s parents hold them regularly and even use their business POS system to let buyers charge their yard sale finds. Anything that doesn’t sell at one sale is stored for the next. That may be successful as a moneymaking sideline, but we needed to get rid of everything without a lot of work.

Then Calico tried taking it to the curb about 24 hours before our scheduled trash pickup. By the time the garbage truck rolled by, everything but our trash barrel had disappeared. The first time, we were a bit worried that the box content might be picked through and scattered across the yard. That never happened. Folks were remarkably respectful and either removed entire boxes or looked through them and returned unwanted items to the box. A couple times, Calico also posted a note on our local Freecycle site, but even when she didn’t, our items disappeared. We didn’t have to list, organize or store. I hope that the recipients enjoyed their find. I know we are thrilled to be free of them.