Some of the freecycling groups maintain web sites where participants post information concerning items they need and those they're giving away. Other groups pass the information by word of mouth or post messages on bulletin boards within an organization.

With freecycling, you're cleaning up your own clutter and helping others find items they want You're also helping to recycle so you reduce waste and keep it out of overburdened landfills.

Obtaining Kitchen Items

Freecycling can involve giving away almost anything you don't want and acquiring items you're seeking. Here's a way to find objects for your kitchen that you may desire or memorabilia you seek.

You also may find what others want to dispose of is that extra cookie sheet, a rolling pin, a serving bowl that matches Grandma's set, plates that complete your dinnerware, odds and ends of cutlery, a butter dish, set of glasses that complements your placemats, a 40s era table cloth, fabric napkins like Mother used when you were a child, or a salt shaker to replace one you broke.

Given away for free might be a toaster, waffle iron, coffee pot, tea kettle, breadmaker and comparable appliances. Also, if you're not using similar items of yours, they may be just what someone else needs.

Some Guidelines

*Find a freecycling group in your area. Otherwise, shipping and delivery can be a problem.

*With most groups, when you sign up, you offer something.

*The items should in good condition.clean, working order, etc.

*However, some people offer "handyman" specials with items that need repair. Just make sure you specify this.

*If there is no group nearby, perhaps you can start one.

Trading Recipes

Some cooks may trade or give away cookbooks, recipe cards, and homemaking magazines while freecycling. Here's a recipe you may want to try.

If you'd like to send me recipes "in trade," I'd welcome them. A story about their origin or occasions when you serve them, it would be interesting to share that information, too.

SNICKERDOODLES was a favorite type of cookie of my childhood, one I made with my daughter, and which our grandchildren enjoy.

Mix together 1 cup soft shortening, 1 ¼ cups granulated sugar, and 2 beaten eggs. Add sifted ingredients (2 ¾ cups sifted flour, 2 teaspoons cream of tartar, 1 teaspoon baking soda, ½ teaspoon salt).

Chill the dough for at least two hours; roll into balls about the size of walnuts. Roll in a mixture of 2 tablespoons granulated sugar and 2 teaspoons cinnamon.

Place on ungreased cookie sheet, 2 inches apart. Bake at 400 degrees F. until lightly browned.

Article (C) 2005 Mary Emma Allen