What a deal!

There are some pretty nice fringe benefits to living so close to Virginia Tech. One is the monthly auction of surplus goods. These are items that the university no longer wants. I am amazed at the collection of things for sale. Tons of computers, hard disks, tables, desks, chairs. And even odd things like some of today’s catches – a pipe threader, a nautilus recumbant exercise bicycle, and an assortment of marching band uniforms (yes, that’s right!).

I had been looking for a workbench to put into the tackroom of the new barn. For something about 5 feet wide, 2 feet deep and 3 feet high (with drawers and storage below), the cost in catalogs seemed to run about $200-$300. That was waaaaayyyy to much for a barn, so I figured I’d see if I might find something at the auction.

Bingo – there was a nice cabinet about 4 feet wide, 2 feet deep and 3 feet high. The whole thing was solid wood (none of that particle board stuff), with a locking door. The counter top was in perfect shape – vintage formica and about 7 feet wide – leaving 18″ overhangs on each side of the cabinet. Perfect for sliding a stool, a 2 drawer file cabinet or shelves under.

I had not bid at the auction before so I was pretty nervous I would screw up, and I really wanted that cabinet. D and I had decided we could go as high as $75, but I was willing to go up to $125 if I had to. Even at that it was a bargain, based on my research.

Bidding started and I waited for the first bid. I was prepared for a fight. But only one other person and I bid and then bang, it was over.

My new cabinet – it’s perfect. And it set me back all of $10.

Wonder what they’ll have next month????