-Make a general list as you pack everything into boxes or bags. I use the ItsDeductible app from TurboTax as a guide. (Not an ad.) Create an account, check out what they use as different item descriptions and valuations. Then what I do is create a list of how many of each thing as I put it in each bag and once I finally donate it I add the entire list to an ItsDeductible donation. Then the app will show me how much the donation is worth and how much I can expect back on my taxes. Once I've finished with the list, I staple it to the receipt (always get the receipt) so I can see exactly how much was donated in that trip. Added bonus, if you use TurboTax to prepare your taxes it can automatically import into the program!
-Don't donate where you shop. This will cut down on the chances that something will find its way back into your home.
-Donate clothing that is still in wearable condition. If something has holes or any wear (even if it came that way) will get tossed by the sorters. It's hard to tell what rips in jeans are there because of fashion trends and which are there because someone fell while wearing them.
-Also, donate/resell more than you buy and hold yourself to it! I got a coupon for 20% off for donating and I wasn't even tempted by it.
That being said, onto my thrifting finds!
It feels like I'm always on the lookout for a decent running backpack. I like to have one on hand to toss a few necessities into before an OrangeTheory class because I live close enough that a run there and back on a nice day isn't too far. I also like to have one for Boston weekend because at the very least, there's a lot of walking that weekend. I always have grand plans that I'll run from the cowbell corner back to the T since until last year we would be at the halfway point. (Not always easy to get back from there on the commuter rail due to the Sox game!) This one from High Sierra was highly rated except for the bladder. I wasn't interested in that part, so I was fine picking this one up! It was a last minute decision and didn't give it a once over so once I got home I found a hole in one of the seams. No big deal, it's an easy fix and should be barely noticeable once I sew it up.
High Sierra Visalia 9L Backpack: Originally $50, paid $4
I'm a sucker for running capris that have pockets! Even if the pockets aren't big enough for my phone, if it can hold chews or gels that's enough for me!
Lululemon Pace Rival Crop: Originally $88, paid $6
I heard about this brand through Oiselle since they gave away pins with orders a few years ago now. They have some really cute enamel pins that fit a variety of tastes, but at $10 each are a little pricey. I managed to visit this different thrift store on a sale day and saved even more!
These Are Things Pins: Originally $10 each, paid $1.30
Organizational items are pricey and SO easy to find at thrift stores. I'm always so surprised when I find this at a thrift store. They're my favorite spice organizer because it looks unassuming, but then you pull out the drawer and it tilts so you can see everything!
I picked up another one of these for our little vials of sprinkles and decorating sugars for baking. It no longer matters how high up the spices or sprinkles are because I can still see everything!
Spice Stack: Originally $40, paid $1.50
In the wintertime, bring on all the merino wool. I will wear all of it. Kari Traa is a three time Olympic medal skier from Norway who started the brand in 2006 and the brand came to the US in 2015. The company makes some amazing wool layers made for an active lifestyle. I was so excited when I found this in the racks. I got really lucky that day because this top in great shape and amazing! Lightweight and so warm. Perfect for the slopes, running or lounging!
Kari Traa Vrang Long Sleeve: Originally $75, paid $5
Any great thrifting finds? How about any races coming up? (I know it's still early in the year but there are still a few out there!) Start the conversation below!
