She Strengthens

The Thrill of the Find: Uncovering Hidden Gems in My Apartment Building

Growing up in apartment buildings, I learned to appreciate the art of treasure hunting. My dad would often return from the trash room with a broken chair or a discarded picture frame, proclaiming his finds as priceless treasures. While most of these discoveries would eventually end up back in the trash, I’ve developed a keen eye for spotting true gems in the anonymous lobby donation pile.

Mirrors and Makeup

One of my most prized finds is a beautifully crafted wood frame mirror. I rescued it from the lobby and hung it in my bedroom, providing a convenient spot for last-minute glances before heading out. This new addition has not only elevated my morning routine but also freed up the bathroom for its intended purpose.

A Breath of Fresh Air

Among the discarded items in the dumpsters behind my building, I stumbled upon a thriving basil plant. With limited space for an herb garden, I happily adopted the plant and now enjoy its fragrant aroma on my windowsill. This little find has brought a touch of greenery to my urban abode.

Lost and Found Literature

A thoughtful neighbor left three wrapped books in the lobby, inviting residents to take a literary risk. I chose the one described as “young adult coming of age, with a touch of Sylvia Plath.” The book, “Sleepwalking” by Meg Wolitzer, transported me back to my angsty teenage years. Immersing myself in its pages felt cathartic, and finishing the book was an accomplishment in itself.

Childhood Revisited

When I spotted a jumbo-sized box of Fruit by the Foot in the lobby, I felt like a kid on Christmas morning. As a child, my mom prohibited sticky, gummy candies, but now I can indulge in this nostalgic treat whenever I please. After ensuring the individually wrapped strips were safe to eat, I’ve been savoring this sweet rediscovery.

Comfort and Productivity

For weeks, I struggled to find the perfect workspace in my tiny apartment. That was until I stumbled upon a usable chair in the hallway, left behind during a neighbor’s moveout. I paired it with a small table from my mom’s patio furniture set, creating a cozy and professional spot for important meetings and virtual happy hours.

Free Fashion

My husband, a clothes enthusiast, hit the jackpot when he discovered a stack of near-perfect condition clothing in the lobby. He kept several pieces, which now hang proudly in our closet. The best part? They were free!

A Touch of Whimsy

One day, my husband noticed a painting of a lovely baby cow hanging by the front door. With no accompanying note, we took it in and made it a part of our kitchen decor, adding a touch of “cottagecore” to our urban home. This unexpected find has become a charming conversation starter.