How to upcycle curbside freebies

What’s in that free box?

 

How is one man’s junk another man’s treasure?

  

Are you thankful for generosity: curb-side, garage sale, thrift/antique store finds and donations? 

Several years ago, I moved forward 600 miles with only what fit in my car, unaware of what the future may hold. I prayed a lot. I’d packed inventory, so from my trunk and the use of library internet, I kept at the business of selling my designs online at FreshRetroGallery—Etsy and —Amazon. At first, blank walls felt starkly bleak. I invested in sketch books, markers and tacky putty for hanging hand-lettered Scripture promises and reminders of my baptism: when I’d received the faith in Christ. I’d landed among people who love Jesus, too! I cherish access to hear Good News and sacred music 24/7. God-given fortitude, patience, creativity and eye-for-design led me to turn a small, empty space into a safe, warm, inviting home. Receiving kindness and gifts, as well as finding salvageable items, instill an enormous sense of gratitude for the generosity of caring people—known and unknown. I’ve discovered wonderful second-hand framed prints, lamps, furniture, and natural plant life. Eventually, about a year after the move, opportunity reconnected me with a few inherited and art pieces from my past.

One Sunday on my way home from church, I found an old painted dresser on the curb. The owners who wanted to get rid of it had a tape measure to check fit and helped load it in my little red station wagon. I pried out a stick of incense that had been stuck in a crack for decades and thoroughly cleaned it. That drawer continues to offer subtle fragrance! I also found a like-new metal shower-caddy. At the time I had no idea how I would use it, yet, I saw in it obvious life for some purpose of organizing! 

How to organize caps, scarves, gloves and mittens with a shower caddy.

 

Inside of closet door utilizes a wreath hook and shower caddy with hooks and pocket shelves to organize outdoor cold weather gear.

Curbside giveaway finds perfect purpose in Minnesota home.

Amusingly, a found shower caddy replaces my previous genius idea of what to do with a microwave rack! 

Each person is God’s precious treasure. Our merciful Creator loved us so much that He died to save us from sin, death and the power of the devil. By the faith He provides, by grace, we who receive Him are safe forever!