Clean Sweep to a New Life

by Tamara Wilhite
(Bedford, TX)

It was barely a year out of high school, and one of my former classmates was getting married.

Setting up household with nearly nothing, I wanted to help out.

However, I couldn't afford much of their Wedding Registry, which had lots of china and fancy serving items, but little of practical value.

The few items I could afford, like can openers and small appliances, had already be purchased.

That's when I decided to get something practical to complement the few practical items on the list.

I actually did the shopping at the dollar store, because that's where I could afford an assortment and variety.

Wrapping came in a large white sparking bag meant for over-sized Christmas toys.

The bride had opened a lot of the smaller items from family.

Now came the gifts from friends.

She selected the largest item, which happened to be mine.

The bride opened the bag, then made a statement of surprise...

...A mop, a bucket, sponges, a wide array of cleaning supplies, and everything needed to "set up house".

A separate box of small dollar store spice containers was also included.

Everything you needed for the kitchen except the food and fridge were there. And...

The total was about $30.

The bride politely set it aside and said nothing else.

Her mother and new mother in law high-fived each other, saying at least someone had the sense to give her something she'd actually use.