Munira Premji

There are few things that make me happier than a good thrift store.

Part of it is the treasure hunt. You never know what you’ll find.

Part of it is sustainability. There is something deeply satisfying about giving beautiful things a second life.

Today I dropped off two huge bags of donations at my neighbourhood Value Village. Since I was already there, I thought…

“Well, I should probably just have a quick look.”

(You know exactly where this story is going.)

Forty-five minutes later I walked out with:

• A beautiful Liz Claiborne top
• A gorgeous Jones New York top… with pockets! (Ladies, you understand the excitement.)
• Four pairs of shorts, including a pair from Gap.

Total cost? $45.

And because it was Tuesday, I received the seniors’ discount.
Or at least… I tried to.

The cashier looked at me and said, “Can I see your ID?”

Then another associate chimed in.
“There’s no way you’re over 60. So you know you won’t qualify for the discount.

I laughed so hard.

For perhaps the happiest moment of my week, I proudly pulled out my driver’s licence to prove that yes… I absolutely qualified.

Best compliment ever.

Great clothes.
A lighter closet.
A few items saved from landfill.
And a reminder that sometimes life gives you exactly what you weren’t looking for.

Now if you’ll excuse me…

I’m wondering what treasures will be waiting on my next thrift store adventure. (And yes… apparently I should bring my ID if it’s a Tuesday).