FreeCycle

When it comes to cleaning house and getting rid of things you don't use anymore, what do you do with all that stuff? Do you load it up and haul it to the dump? Do you go through the trouble of having a rummage sale?

I used to do both of those things, until recently. I just joined my local chapter of Freecycle. In case you haven't heard of it, it is a community of recycling-minded people who are dedicated to keeping usable things out of our landfills. It's really a great thing.

By joining, you can take advantage of the things others have posted to give away, and you can post your own items to give away. If you have something that you don't use anymore, but it still has some life left in it, you post it on Freecycle. Someone sees what you have to offer and they contact you through email to let you know they are interested. You make plans to have them pick it up, and the deal is done. Everything listed on Freecycle is free, no charge for anything. It's considered a gift.

Since joining, I've gotten an exercise machine, a matching loveseat and chair, and a recliner. Everything is in excellent condition, and I couldn't be happier. Next week, I plan on doing some cleaning of my own and posting a few things. It's a great way to get rid of things you don't use anymore and give someone else in need an opportunity to get the things they need. You can feel good knowing that you've done your part to save the Earth.