Looking for stuff and other things to do?

Let us think about it. Over the years we all acquire ‘ stuff’ that we still retain, although why is often questionable?

As we get older much of our ‘stuff,’ although practical in years gone by and is in good shape, is just collecting dust. However, there are things we do need so to find room ‘stuff’ must go.

We could just throw it away but it is far more environmentally responsible to share, donate or even try to sell the ‘stuff.’

I am not sure if that is the rationale behind the 2nd Annual Highway 217 Yard Sale, but it is a very practical motivation. However, I do know that organizers and some participants have another perspective. Many worthwhile causes and initiatives are encouraging you to make the trek down the Digby Neck on June 9 between 8 a.m. and 4 p.m. (rain date June 10) to take advantage of their fundraisers that day as well.

The three groups collaborating and coordinating are the Digby Neck Collective, Digby Neck Farmers Market and The Schoolhouse Café. The Collective states that they are “A group of Digby Neck residents working together to en- hance small business, social events, well-being and life in general for all living on the Neck.”

If you do not live on the Digby Neck or if you want to be close to the delectable food served by the Schoolhouse Café, you can book a table at DNCS for the event. (Contact Melissa Merritt at 902-3081669). Yes, the School House Café will be open from 8 a.m. to 2 p.m. for breakfast, lunch and coffee. From my experience, the coffee and the cookies are so worth the trip.

Last year, I made the effort to wander down the incredibly breathtakingly scenic and peaceful Digby Neck. In addition to some practical items, I acquired some wonderful artworks and crafts that became very welcome gifts for friends and family. I also was able to find some hearty plants for my garden, some Girl Guide cookies and the perfect morning coffee cup! This year my plans are to start at the Café for breakfast and go from there.

Not just for this event but for the summer/fall ahead, I have some thoughts. Yard sales are an interesting diversion, but there is a certain unspoken moral and ethical code governing the sacred act of selling one’s stuff. Contrary to popular belief, a yard/garage sale is not an anything-goes, no-etiquetteneeded free-for-all. As in any social situation, there are certain things you do or don’t do in order to be polite. Respect the posted times. The early bird does not always get the worm, they may offend or hurt the vendor.

Walking unnecessarily through the yard, stepping in flowerbeds and blocking neighbours’ driveways are definitely not respectful. While it is the seller’s responsibility to have adequate change, producing a $20 bill for a 25-cent purchase is extremely inconsiderate. Save small bills and change throughout the week for your Saturday sale trip. Yard sales do not take Interact. Here in rural southwestern Nova Scotia we have manners. We are not loud or obnoxious. We are kind and supportive. Carry that thought as you peruse the tables and wares of the folks divesting of ‘stuff.’