I decided I would take a break from wearing my usual bland black tops. It was a big step. I was told black is so slimming, but it’s not. I just look like a chubby ninja.

The bright green recycle logo felt loud. I strutted, full of purpose, into the school. I saw a student looking at my shirt. I put my shoulders back and he says, “Why do you have a garbage shirt on, Miss Jana?” Probably a teachable moment but I went to the staff room and I questioned my whole existence. Children and their honesty make me do that at times.

My mother instilled her money-saving techniques in me. We would be cruising the garage sales and thrift stores for the best deals. I come from a big family so hand-me-downs were the norm. I carried on with that but I don’t think my youngest daughter appreciated her older brother’s jeans, so I had to get creative. On the last day of school, I would go in and shop the lost-and-found. I don’t know how parents didn’t miss the brand-new Nike bags or shoes, but I sure appreciate them.

I would also head to Masset St. Paul’s thrift store every Saturday. I was first in the basement; there was always a line up, so we had to go early. Visiting and catching up there was so nice. All the Nonnies and Chinnies would be sitting enjoying a tea and sweet treat from the kitchen while the children raced around looking at the toys. I may or may not have donated things that needed a good cleaning so I could buy them back. It was worth it. I have a daughter who would change her whole outfit right there in the store. She still tries stuff on over her clothes. My son grabbed a vinyl record and shouted, “Mom, look at the size of this CD!” So funny. CDs are almost obsolete, but vinyl is coming back.

Now the thrift store is not there anymore so online bargaining has become more popular. All kinds of local buy-and- sell groups on Facebook feature everything you could ever want. When I’m bored, I comment on tiny clothes, asking if they think it would fit me. Turns out creating awkward situations pleases me. The HG Trader has lots of listings online and in print so be sure to have a look there too.

And who could forget the thrift store in Daajing Giids! I’ve gotten some amazing finds to stick into my five-dollar bag. Not sure why I need 10 umbrellas or another back scratcher, but I do. The volunteers are wonderful and friendly. I will spend two hours in there just picking through the great variety of merchandise. So many people go there for Hallowe’en ideas, there’s usually a pretty good selection. The new year is another busy time with all the cast-offs after updating our creature comforts.

This country throws out a staggering 500 million kilograms of clothing each year! We need to do better. Go to that garage sale, thrift store and second-hand boutique. I see brand new stuff there all the time! Look up the many used goods online before buying new. Have a great rest of your summer.

Photos by Jana McLeod