Thrilling Thrifting Adventures: Unique Finds at Goodwill & Miracle Hill

Welcome to the Blog today, Friends!

I’m so happy you’ve joined me for today’s thrifting adventure—it’s a bit of an eclectic mix, full of charm and unexpected delights. I only popped into two shops this time: our local Goodwill and a favorite called Miracle Hill. If you haven’t been, Miracle Hill is part of a small chain of thrift stores in our area, and it has a reputation for yielding some truly wonderful finds if you’re willing to take your time and look closely.

Now, I have to say—thrifting has become a bit more of a challenge lately. With more folks hunting for treasures to resell, it definitely pays to shop early and often. And I’ve noticed that people who used to donate are now selling online instead, which makes the shelves a little sparser. But don’t let that discourage you! There are still gems to be found—you just have to keep at it. Part of the fun is in the thrill of the hunt, isn’t it?

So grab your favorite drink, settle in, and let’s take a peek at what I discovered on this cozy little outing.

Today’s adventure began at Goodwill, and right away, I stumbled upon a delightful surprise—Mickey Mouse dinner plates! These sweet plates feature a classic blue and white design, with just the subtlest nod to Mickey himself—a darker blue silhouette of those iconic ears nestled into the pattern. It’s playful without being over the top, making them a perfect addition to a whimsical yet elegant table.

They’re in wonderful condition, and I immediately pictured them paired with my other blue and white dishes. Wouldn’t they make a lovely setting for a summer brunch or a themed birthday tea? It’s a look that would charm both the young and the young at heart.

They are made by Staffordshire of England.

My next little treasure was a copy of the Milk Street cookbook by Christopher Kimball, well-known from his popular cooking show. I actually tune in from time to time—especially when the episode features a cuisine I’m curious about trying at home. This particular cookbook is a real gem, filled with quick and easy recipes that are perfect for busy weeknights or those days when you want something delicious without spending hours in the kitchen.

What I really appreciate is how approachable the recipes are. Most use just a handful of ingredients—many you likely already have in your pantry—and yet the results are dishes that look and taste like they took far more effort than they did. It’s the kind of book that makes you feel like a weeknight meal can still be a little special.

All of the next treasures came from a single stop at Miracle Hill, and what a fruitful visit it was! First up is this beautifully crafted decorative board, made from a mix of dark and light woods. The variation in tones gives it depth and warmth, and the artist has added thoughtful touches of color and texture that elevate it into a true piece of art.

While it’s not meant for food prep, it’s perfect as a display piece. I can easily imagine it propped up against a kitchen backsplash, bringing a cozy, artisan feel to the space. It would also be lovely layered behind a few well-loved cookbooks or nestled in a kitchen vignette. I haven’t found the perfect spot for it just yet—but I’m excited to try a few arrangements and see where it shines.

I don’t usually buy shoes at thrift stores, but these were simply too good to pass up. I spotted a pair of sleek white Vessi sneakers—yes, the ones that everyone raves about for travel and everyday wear. Known for being waterproof, lightweight, and ultra-comfy, they’re a favorite for people who want something stylish and practical on the go.

I slipped them on right there in the store and did a little quick research. Brand new, they retail for about $150! The insides were spotless and barely worn, which is always a key consideration for thrifted footwear. The outsides had a few spots, but otherwise, they were in excellent shape. I watched a couple of online tutorials on how to clean Vessi shoes and gave them a gentle refresh—and they came out looking fantastic!

I’m so glad I trusted my instincts and took a chance on them. White sneakers are a wardrobe staple that pair beautifully with almost any casual outfit—and the fact that they’re waterproof makes them even more versatile. I can’t wait to give them a spin around town… or on a rainy day walk!

One of my favorite discoveries of the day was this beautiful set of five Astral Peerage Hock wine glasses. There’s something so timeless about cut glass, and these are no exception. The stems have a graceful taper—rising gently into the bowl or down to the base, depending on how you look at them—adding a delicate sculptural element that makes them feel extra special.

The bowls themselves are richly cut and wonderfully rounded, just perfect for sipping a favorite wine or even sparkling water with a slice of lemon. I especially love that they’re sturdy—elegant without being fragile—so they won’t easily tip over at the table. All five were in pristine condition, and when I looked them up online, I discovered they’re listed at around $50 each. Quite the find for a thrift store shelf!

**The final find of the day may just be the most breathtaking—**a set of Gallia balloon wine glasses by Rogaska. These stunning glasses are a feast for the eyes, with beautifully cut bowls accented by a delicate scattering of floral motifs near the rim. It’s the kind of detail that catches the light just right and adds that little whisper of elegance to every sip.

The stems are just as impressive—each one adorned with tiny vertical cuts that create a subtle line of dots, a design that feels both intricate and graceful. Near the top, the stem flares into two delicately cut crystal spheres, forming a graceful pedestal for the bowl. They’re works of art in their own right, and when I looked them up, I was amazed to see they’re listed at $130 apiece!

As we admired them at home, my husband mentioned they reminded him of our early American Pairpoint glasses. I’m already dreaming of mixing the two in a future table setting—pairing old-world craftsmanship with vintage charm. Wouldn’t that be a lovely way to blend eras and tell a story through the table?

Just two stops today, but what a lovely assortment of treasures! From playful Mickey plates to elegant crystal stemware, each piece had its own charm and story. That’s the beauty of thrifting—you never quite know what you’ll find, and sometimes, the most unexpected items become the most cherished.

I hope your next thrifting outing brings you a bit of magic, too. Whether it’s a practical kitchen find or a delicate piece of glassware, the thrill is in the discovery. Thanks so much for joining me on today’s little adventure—I always love sharing these moments with you.

Until next time, happy hunting and happy homemaking!