Lifestyle

Good Will Hunting
Finding the treasure in another mans trash

By Stacy Yarrow

I suppose I would consider myself a hunter of sorts. Not of animals because I love animals, but I understand the thrill of the hunt. Finding treasures or, as some would say, 'junk' and bringing together a little inspiration, some glue, perhaps a nail or two, some paint and 'voila'! You would never know the humble beginnings of the new masterpiece.

So where do you find items that need re-homing? You have to go hunting. Why not try The Salvation Army, or 'Sally-Ann', consignment shops, flea markets, garage sales, big pick up nights, (if your town is lucky enough to have them). These are all great places to go hunting. You only need some time, patience, an open heart and some vision. Of course, it never hurts to have someone to share the adventure with who can come up with the perfect idea for that chandelier you just spotted. Be a proud supporter of the reduce, reuse, and recycle movement. I personally like to take something and change its purpose around so that it becomes a piece of art in its new incarnation. Why can't an old window become an interesting and quirky picture frame?

I recently picked up an item I desperately needed for our newly renovated bathroom, which was a corner, hanging cupboard and I found it at the end of someone's driveway! It was probably the top of some piece of furniture in its past life, but I sanded and painted it, attached new trim, and it now lives in my bathroom. So leave early and take the time to pay attention to your surroundings while on your way to work because you never know what you may find.

Kijiji.com is also a great way, without to go hunting without leaving your seat and you can go anytime - day or night. I often go "blind" hunting, where I have no idea what I'm looking for until I find it. Like my beautiful round table that makes me think of France. It is not yet ready to grace the kitchen, but will be very soon.

I recently had the best adventure of all: being a pirate with my first mate (my 4 year old) sailing in our pirate ship (my truck) and searching 'clues' (garage sales signs) that would lead us to treasures (dinky cars for his collection). It is amazing how much fun you can have on a sunny Saturday morning. On our adventure I came across a beautiful purple glass vase that I just had to have. And I get to re-live this morning each time I use it...priceless.

Anyone can buy a perfect something at a store and take it home and enjoy it. But I prefer a story. Not so long ago, the editor of this magazine came across a perfectly blemished antique buffet caught her eye, and we had to figure out how to strap it to the roof of my jeep and drive it home. But she had to have it. That's the stuff that life is made of. It weaves a story into the fabric of our lives and provides function as well as memories.

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