Garage sale
I was politely told that we did not need ANYTHING else this morning when I mentioned that there was a garage sale just up the road. I know that, probably more than Stephen does, but I could not help myself…there might just be something that I need.
This morning’s one was rather sparse, with very few bits and pieces available. However, I did spy a carry-on suitcase that I thought might suit Stephen for our upcoming trip to the Gold Coast. And I must admit, I did check the golf clubs on the off-chance they were left handers. They weren’t.
I was surprised to see Stephen making his way to the entrance; Now I would not have to go and find him, after he’d driven off to park the car. ‘’This would be perfect for you,’’ I enthused, pointing to the bag. A few years ago, I had bought Stephen a small bag to replace his ailing, town bag, the one filled with all the stuff one needs when one goes to town, and one that is probably six or seven years past its used-by date. However, the bag that I bought became reserved for overseas travel only (used once). I pointed out the benefits of replacing his town bag with the one I bought him and buying this new carry-on. Good quality, I was told. Bargain price for such good quality and a final comment that one would never get luggage for this price anywhere else. Umm – op shops, I thought to myself.
The seller’s spiel must have worked, as Stephen agreed to buy the bag, plus he expressed interest in the other two, another carry-on and a large suitcase. He bought all three. They are a smart red set, obviously second-hand, but as was pointed out, good quality and still holding together well. Zips are all in good working order. And the suitcase is much smarter than the one Stephen has, so that was a good buy, $50 all up. It is always a worry when one goes through customs. His last bag was an op shop one too and one never knows what the previous owners have used their bag for. I know we get asked if we packed our own bag, but there is never a question about always owning the bag.
The seller this morning was a professional caddy, his luggage had been bought in Switzerland, so I am reasonably confident that there won’t be any problems with drug residue or anything like that.
However, taking Stephen on holiday is another matter. Being his first overseas venture on our last trip to Australia, he didn’t master the art of going through gates that well. I had explained that he needed to show his passport to the machine, then wait for the gate to click open. I thought my instructions were clear, but I couldn’t stop laughing as I watched from my side, as he pushed repeatedly against the immovable gate. Eventually, a worker came to his aid, and Stephen’s rising frustration (and fear) abated. Perhaps that is why he hasn’t travelled since!
I don’t usually do this but am going to post a pic of these bags with this blog.