School Fair Bargains

So it was the Bethster's School Christmas Fair yesterday and we headed down to try and grab a few bargains. I was in luck, picking up several Doctor Who books and toys for the wee man's Christmas Box (thanks to my eagle eyed sister), a few children's books and toys, such as this 1980s Keypers Snail (I had one of these as little girl, so couldn't resist the nostalgia trip) and a wooden latches puzzle that the Shugmeister has not stopped playing with.

I've blogged before about passing on used toys and clothing rather than sending to landfill and school fairs are a great place to send your stuff, and if you're lucky, pick up some vintage toys of your own. But of course giving to charity is important at this time of year too, therefore I'm copying and pasting this post from the Nice to be Nice blog about the Day of Donation on behalf of the Simon Community:

"So it's December now, a time when most people will be getting ready to welcome a load of new stuff into their house. But what about the old stuff? Well, as it's probably a bit late for a Nice to be Nice fundraising event, I'm suggesting that Nice to be Nice members make a donation to one of the Simon Community Shops in Belfast, Newtownards, Ballynahinch or Bangor, on or around Donation Day: Thursday15th December. It's easy enough, gather up a few items that you no longer need or will be upgrading soon, and the Simon Community will pick them up from you. It really couldn't be simpler. If you'd like us to arrange a pick up for you, then simply get in touch in the comments section or via the Facebook event page here. Alternatively call 028 90 232 882 to arrange a pick up time that suits you.

This month will really started to see the cold weather hit, and thoughts start to go out to those who don't have the same comforts that the vast majority of us do. I know times are still hard for a few people, but even a donation of a few simple items can make a difference.

Or how about donating your time for a few hours in December? The Simon Community are always looking for volunteers and have a number of events lined up. Call the same number above or vistit the Simon Community website. http://www.simoncommunity.org/fundraising/volunteer/