Have you ever stumbled upon a hidden gem while browsing online marketplaces? Today, I want to share my own serendipitous experience with Freecycle and the unexpected arrival of some fascinating creatures: stick insects!
Just yesterday, after finishing a blog post, I logged in to my email and discovered a message that sent a jolt of excitement through me. It was about an offer I’d made ages ago on Freecycle – stick insects! Now, I confess, I’d completely forgotten about it. Thankfully, the universe (or at least a kind soul on Freecycle) hadn’t. The message offered me the chance to finally bring these intriguing insects home.
Without hesitation, I dialed the number and arranged a quick pickup. It was only a ten-minute walk away, on the other side of the park, so I set off. Of course, with typical British weather, it started hailing halfway there! But I braved the elements, arriving at the house a little damp but determined.
The homeowner, a friendly young boy, welcomed me in and proudly presented a mesh cage teeming with about a hundred tiny stick insects. It was a sight to behold! I handed him a plastic box, and he carefully counted out about twelve nymphs (baby stick insects) for me. We chatted excitedly about these fascinating creatures – their camouflage skills, their diet, their lifecycle – a real bonding moment over our shared interest in the natural world.
With a newfound sense of responsibility (and a box full of stick insect nymphs), I returned home. It was time to create their new habitat! I meticulously prepared a large tank, carefully arranging a variety of plants to provide food and climbing opportunities for my new residents. It was a miniature forest waiting to be explored. Satisfied with their new home, I transferred the tiny stick insects with gentle care. The next step: ensuring the comfort of my locusts – their tank received a similar makeover.
The stick insect tank wasn’t the only exciting addition to my home. It proudly sits atop a leaded display cabinet, a perfect match to the corner unit I recently showcased. Both pieces came from the same seller, possibly even purchased together at some point in the past. The serendipity continues! And can you believe it, I only paid £10 for the display cabinet!
Continuing the theme of bargain finds, the tank rests on a beautiful cloth I discovered at a charity shop in Barnoldswick (pronounced “Barlick” by the locals, a fun fact I picked up along the way). This wasn’t a mere purchase, it was a treasure hunt with several other beautiful fabrics acquired for the incredible price of 20p each!
But the day wasn’t just about new arrivals. I also took some time to breathe new life into an old friend – a plant stand. This faithful companion has been with me for years, purchased for a mere one shilling and sixpence (about seven and a half new pence for the younger generation) from a secondhand shop way back in 1970. After thoroughly cleaning it with sugar soap, I gave it a coat of red emulsion undercoat. Now, the question remains: should I match it to the other woodwork with a coat of gloss, or go for an elegant lacquer finish? Decisions, decisions!
As the sun sets on this Sunday evening, the gentle hum of activity from my insect friends fills the air. With a glass of stout in hand and The Antiques Roadshow on the telly, it’s the perfect way to end a day filled with unexpected joy, a reminder that the most captivating discoveries can sometimes arrive right on your doorstep, or in your inbox!