A lot of what goes on at the writer's retreat stays on the writer's retreat.
However, I'd like to share something about the trading table.
Most retreats we have a trading table - a place where you can off-load some of your old clothes, books, shoes and other accouterments, the proceeds are always sent on to a worthy charity. This time, we raised over $500 for a Palestinian children's charity. It feels nice to do some good.
I've picked up some awesome pieces over the years. My pink sparkly wellies, denim jacket and a number of t-shirts have come off the rack. Most retreats I'll take down a few books of reasonable quality and will come back with one or two. I found something I've been wanting to read on the table, donated $5 - done.
We've had cushion covers, hair bobbles (you know, the ones that used to leave craters in your skull as a kid) bathers, scarves. All sorts of decent stuff that people want to move on.
This time, there was one item that nobody was wanting to take. Everybody picked it up and had a look, but nobody was buying.
"Who put that there?"
"No idea."
"What the..?"
"Yes, it is what you think it is."
Somebody put a vibrator on the trading table.
It was in its box. Allegedly unused. One that works on the outside rather than the inside (think of "The Rose or The Lemon").
Did we ever find out who left this as a charity donation? No.
Did anybody buy it? No.
Did people pick it up, smirk and audibly ponder how it got there. Absolutely.
"I wonder if it's any good?" Somebody asked.
"It is. I've got it's brother at home." This came with a wry smile.
"You know, this is tempting," said another, "I left mine at home."
"I'm not sure if it's charged up," I provided.
"It doesn't take batteries."
"It does not. Comes with a charging cable. Most do now."
"You know about this?"
"I might do."
"I wonder what they want for it?" was another question.
"Well, it retails for around $100."
"You know this?"
"I might do."
The item remained on the table, continuing to provide an element of mirth.
I do wonder what you'd pay for a second hand vibrator.
It didn't sell. I'm not sure what's going to happen to it. Often the remnants are dropped off at a local op shop.
I wonder what Dorothy or Gladys or Gwen might think as they pull it out of the charity bin....
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