Thrifty shoppers can find true keepsakes

My book club met one night last week and – this almost never happens – I was early.

So when I drove past a thrift store that was right on the way, I pulled in and parked. When you think about it, I wasn’t just giving in to an impulse to do a little shopping. I was actually being considerate.

What kind of friend shows up early to a house where a harried mother is trying to get a little one ready for bed, the house dust-free and ready for company and homemade goodies on the table? I sure don’t. I wouldn’t want to risk the bad karma.

Anyway, with an extra 15 minutes to spend, I made a quick circle through the store. I didn’t find a book I needed or a dish I couldn’t resist. I didn’t see an album to add to my collection or a book on tape I hadn’t heard. I was about to leave empty-handed when a piece of lace caught my eye.

The lace was the hem of a beautiful decorative table cover. It was made to fit in the center of a table, under a bowl of flowers or fruit. The piece was in wonderful condition and only $2.

I picked it up and then put it down. I picked it up again and then put it down one more time. It really was beautiful. And the price was a steal. And I do have a round table…

I picked it up again and surrendered.

I walked up to the front of the store to pay for the embroidered cloth, and as I waited, I noticed a postcard lying on a table. I picked it up and turned it over. The front of the card was covered by the words, “Greetings from Spokane,” and it had a 50-cent price.

Honestly. I’m only human.

I bought them both.

I was a few minutes late to my book club, but I didn’t miss anything. People were still gathering and admiring my friend’s tidy house and homemade cheese dip. We got a peek at the sleepy baby. We spent a couple of hours talking about the book and enjoying one another’s company.

On the drive home, I looked at the tablecloth and postcard on the seat beside me.

The back of the card was blank, but I like to think there was a message in there somewhere.

Spokane is a wonderful spot for treasure hunting. You never know what you’ll find or what will find you.

Here’s to another great year.