Community Yard Sale or Yard Sale Community?

Early Saturday morning, I opened the blinds to see our neighborhood filled with drivers looking for parking places. The usually quiet street was buzzing with excitement. People walked from house to house while sounds of conversation filled the air.

The time of year for clearing out closets and garages has arrived. Community Yard Sale signs are sprouting up like new blades of green grass. Posters of all sizes and shapes alerting everyone passing by to the event.

"Books, Antiques, Clothing, Dishes, Toys and More" was written in permanent marker on signs attached to poles and trees. Some posters simply stated "Yard Sale" while others welcomed visitors with "Fill A Bag for $5.00". Yet another sign had a huge arrow pointing the way to the sales.

Children walking with parents and grandparents. Babies in strollers being pushed by their Mama. Men who already made purchases of fishing rods, tackle boxes and outdoor equipment headed for their cars. Pickup trucks were being filled with bed frames, bookcases and shelving units. A few winter coats were sold, too.

I stepped outside and listened. Although the signs led people to a "Community Yard Sale", the area gave me the feeling of a "Yard Sale Community". Friends and strangers were brought together by the yard sale event. There were more people walking through the neighborhood than usual. This gave me the feeling of "community".

People paused to look at items. While checking each table or display, conversations between friends and strangers started.

"Wow, there sure are a lot of people out today. Must be the good weather and the great sales." One woman stated.

"Yes, I'm looking for back to school clothes for the fall."  A Mom with elementary school children shared.

"I'm hoping to find some good books to read. My husband wants fishing supplies." A lady wearing a beautiful straw hat with pink flowers spoke.

With each conversation, an interaction was started that may have never occurred if not for the "Community Yard Sale".  Throughout the morning and into the afternoon, I paused and listened as new friendships were formed and old friendships renewed.

We were not just a community having a yard sale that day. We were a "Yard Sale Community" and enjoying the blessings of conversation and good sales. This neighborhood would not be known only as the place for sales. This neighborhood will be known for "community" and friendliness.

Have you chatted with a neighbor lately? Have you met a knew neighbor? Share your experience. Did you meet someone new at a yard sale?

Enjoy a blessed day,
Mimi