About mid morning I took a break and puttered around looking. I'd promised myself that there wouldn't be anything else--especially after Gary unearthed six or seven books he wanted (including the Complete Works of Shakespeare) and a fishing reel---refurbished just for him by the old gentleman who oversees the sporting goods room--he has a soft spot for neophyte fishermen and Gary most definitely qualifies. And, of course, there was my VCR find of Fiddler on the Roof (two tape set--beautiful box). But I was done. Really.
And then I saw it . . .
The shiny box advertising a cappuccino/espresso machine.
No way. I couldn't be that lucky.
I opened the box and--still in its plastic wrapped cocoon with the instructions and all its little parts--was the advertised product.
It will be too expensive.
I flipped it around and looked. Some sweet soul marked it $5.00.
Delighted, I called to Gary who was carrying in boxes. Looook! Loook what I found! I was fairly bubbling. Can I have it? Pleeeeze?
Standing nearby at another table, a woman from our church (who I only know on sight) burst into a broad smile. "We only used it once," she said. "I'm so glad you're the one who found it."
Gary--of course--was not foolish enough to say no.
I am done now--sated and satisfied. While I didn't find what I went looking for, I unearthed some other treasures--as well as a few stories from the folks around me (this happens when people decide to give away bits of their history). The Rummage Sale can begin--the public can come in and treasure hunt among the tables full of old glass, small appliances, picture frames, books, and bric-a-brac, to their hearts' content.
Tonight I am putting up my feet with a cup of espresso in one hand, and a book Gary surprised me with (Another Autumn: The Rufus Chronicle) just a few minutes ago. I am too tired to edit and/or proof--the next segment of the Dog Story (are you still reading?) will be posted tomorrow.