Goodwill Hunting

Over the last three months I have gone to the depths that I have on few occasions gone. Nothing that is morally against my values but unusual in my patterns. As most of my friends know, I like to shop to find value where there is none and to live for the sale and the discount. In other words, the outlet and the internet are my friends and Sam's Club and Costco are distant relatives.
Over the last three months, I have found a step child. The Goodwill . It is not that I felt this thrift store of all thrift stores is beneath me but I have never had the occasion to venture into this establishment .
Recent event ( separation, divorce prep and tremendous weight loss) have reduced my disposable income and I have resorted to shopping at the Goodwill . It has become my lifesaver. First it was just to get a few things for my new apartment that I could not afford to get at Wal-Mart things like pillow cases, sheets, floor lamps end tables etc.
I also bought some needed kitchen items (crock pots, pans and a rice steamer ) . Before I knew it my entire apartment was outfitted with all the comforts of home and the ability to prepare any meal necessary.
After outfitting my apartment I realized that my increased workouts and weight loss left me with few clothes that did not fit properly. I tried going to Wal-Mart for a few things and realized that in my state, Wal-Mart prices were too much in my state. A pair of trousers are between $10 and $20 that could be used fro cable, electric and rent . I discovered that trousers of all kinds and quality could be had at the Goodwill for a mere $4.99-$5.99 and shirts for around the same. I have more than enough shoes so they were not an issue. I also have plenty of suits and dress shirts but everyday wear was the problem.
Things like jeans, cargo pants and polo shirts. Since I have lost weight, I now have a Goodwill body Size 40 to 42 waist, XL-XXL instead of waist 50 and 3XL . So now instead of going to the factitious Phat Boyz the consignment short for the portly man I can go to Goodwill the consignment shop for the average sized man.
I have also found that what you find on your Goodwill hunting depends on where the hunting ground is. I have found the best place for designer clothes are the Goodwill's that are located in tony suburbs like Edina and Woodbury . Furniture is sometimes better as well.
I have found however, the holy grail of Goodwills is the one on University avenue and Fairview in Saint Paul , Minnesota .
In this time of economic uncertainty it is great to have this economic oasis known as the Goodwill.