Theresa L.
Burien Washington
We first came into contact with Theresa after she found one of calling cards in a blue vase at the Burien Goodwill. I remember leaving it there; I try to not be too noticeable and some guy kept on hanging around me. I started to feel weird like a hoodlum or something, looking over my shoulder. My stealthy actions proved fruitful once Theresa found our blog. After a few chat’s, it became apparent that she might have some useful thoughts to share. So thank you Theresa for being our first Thrifter Profile! -Angela
Look for our cards!
Any details about yourself you would like to share?
I was born and raised here in Seattle. I’m very close to my family, (literally). My sister and niece live next door to me, and my mother lives two blocks away. I live with my boyfriend of seven years, our Maine Coon cat Matty, and love bird Shorty. I have a very uneventful life, but I like it like that
How do you know the GWH Girls?
I found your card in a vase at the Burien GW. When I saw the name Goodwill Hoarding, I thought it was a sign from above that I needed to stop shopping so much.
What is your home thrift store?
Burien Goodwill. I hit the motherload at the Burien GW today. Until a few weeks ago, I only went on Thursdays. Since mom has opened her space at an antique mall, I’ve been going several times a week. I found a crap ton of vinage, mint condition Pyrex!! Squeeeee! This is what I got:
2 nesting Butterprint bowls – both for $9.99
Snowflake cassarole dish (no lid) – $4.99
Pyrex
Large yellow mixing bowl – $9.99
Small red bowl – $3.99
Lime green pie plate – $3.99
Lime green cake/cassarole dish (no lid) – $4.99
My plan was to just keep the Snowflake dish to start my new collection, but the more I look at them and see how flawless they are, the more I want to keep them. Geez!
When did you first discover the wonders of the Thrift Shop?
My grandmother would take to thrift stores and garage sales when we were little. We always went to the Swap Meet that used to be at the Midway Drive In.
It’s hard to narrow down, but what is one of your favorite thrift finds?
Dr Marten Mary Janes
dr martens
Conair lighted make up mirror
Conair Mirror
Vintage mirrored vanity tray
Vanity Tray
Lenox cherry blossom clock
Lenox Clock
Kid size Motorhead t-shirt. I don’t have kids, but this went for $35 on ebay!
Is there something in particular you are looking for when you go?
I’m a sucker for linens, (vintage and new). I’m always on the hunt for vintage and new kitchen ware. I just acquired my first set of vintage china from the Everett GW for $25, so I’m on the hunt for the serving pieces. It’s Made in Japan China 6701. I got a 20 piece place setting, and salt and pepper shakers. I also love pajama bottoms.
If you could give a “tip” to a new thrifter what would it be?
Go often, be patient, and go to aisles twice. It’s easy to get overwhelmed and miss something when you look the first time around. I have also found stuff after they’ve restocked the shelves that I would have missed if I didn’t go back. I religiously go on Thursday after work. This gives me first crack at the newly marked down colored tags for that week. Also, screw the black Friday crap at the mall and big box stores! GW has 50% off everything in the store. The night before Thanksgiving, I go in and scope out what I want, and even make a list. The last two years I’ve gone, there are only about 3-5 people waiting to get in. I’m not sure if this is the only day they do this, but I look forward to it 🙂
Have you ever found something, talked yourself out of it, and then regret it days later?
All the time! It was an opalescent, cranberry candy dish with beautiful floral etching. It was full of seashells and sand all taped up. I thought I didn’t want to bother with trying to clean it up. Now I wish I had purchased it.
What do you value most in a thrift store (clean, organized, grimy and cluttered, close to home)?
It doesn’t have to be clean, but I do like it organized. There’s nothing more annoying than looking for a book, only to find they’re all thrown on a shelf.
Which section do you go to first?
Kitchenware
Have you ever sold one of your finds for a profit?
The summer I was unemployed back in 2006, I made $800 selling stuff on ebay. I find a lot of good stuff that I can’t use, and I just can’t pass it up. There are a lot of people who don’t have access to fine department stores, or who can’t afford to pay full price for something on a higher end. The kid’s Motorhead t-shirt is a great example. I didn’t even think they made Motorhead shirts for kids. Also, good quality plus size clothing is expensive and sells well too.
Do you prefer to go thrifting alone or with someone?
Once in a while I’ll go with my mom or a friend, but I prefer to go alone. This way, I can take my time and don’t have to worry about someone waiting for me.
Do you enjoy purchasing media (books, cds, movies, etc)?
I rarely find CDs or movies that I like, but I do buy books. I’ve taken up bird watching, and I have purchased quite a few books from the Goodwill.
What inspires you to thrift shop? Saving money, recycling, treasure hunting… etc?
Saving money and treasure hunting. I can afford to purchase most of the things that I find at GW new, but why do it if you don’t have to? There are very few things that I need to have right away, and I know if I’m patient, I’ll find it.
We are passionate about our community, friends, and family. What are you passionate about?
Friends and family are important to me. I’m also an animal and environment nut. As a lifelong resident, I’m especially passionate about maintaining natural habitat in Seattle.
What are your hobbies?
Bird watching, camping, and hiking. I love arts and crafts too, but don’t get much time to sit down and do them. I love nail art, and make up!! I could watch youtube tutorials for days!!
What are 3 things that no one would know by looking at you?
I don’t have tattoos, (I have some crazy ear piercings, so people assume I have tats).
I don’t like chick flicks
I used to be morbidly obese
What inspires you? Every day, insignificant things. The kindness of strangers.
On looking back at your life thus far, what is your favorite memory?
My whole family would go to my grandparents for dinner every Friday. My grandma would cook for us, and then all of the cousins would go out and play in the woods.
Do you collect anything?
I stopped officially collecting things because it takes over my house, and I just don’t have room. I have a small collection of Josef, musical lady figurines. I haven’t purchased one in ages because they have gotten so expensive. I have been on the lookout for those Wade miniature animals that used to come in the Red Rose tea. My mother has opened a space at a local antique mall, so I’ve been on the hunt for things for her to sell. I have seen a lot of things I would love to start collecting, but I don’t have the room right now.
Wherever you are sitting, what is the nearest thrift shop purchase?
The sweater I’m wearing. I got it at the Burien Goodwill.
Have you ever bought furniture? If so what is your favorite thrift store purchase?
I have not yet purchased furniture. If I had a truck, I would. I always see the things that I would love to refurbish.
What was your “holy grail” thrift find?
I know it sounds dumb, but my lighted make up mirror. I apply my make up in the living room while watching TV. It gives just the right amount of light for that room. I use it every day. It’s not exciting, but it’s something I wouldn’t want to live without.
Thanks again Theresa! We have loved getting to know you!
Are you a fellow thrifter looking for that hidden treasure? If you are interested in being featured as a fellow thrifter by GWH please email us at goodwillhoarding@gmail.com
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