Lost Dolls, Burnt Hair, and 45 Disney VHS Tapes: Laugh Until You Cry

Mom's Thoughts The Funniest Estate Sale Finds

We’ve had plenty of fun, and funny, adventures in our estate sale hunts. The very first sale we went to was in an old home packed with treasures. We went a little overboard, grabbing anything that caught our eye. I was especially excited about a little Norwegian doll I found. But when we got home and started unpacking, Angela asked me where the doll was. We searched everywhere… and then it hit me. In all the excitement, I must have left an entire bag of treasures behind. Gone forever.

We’ve also come across some things that probably should have gone straight to the dump. Angela once picked up a wooden clothespin doll that looked like its hair had been burned off. Every time I see it, I can’t help but laugh.

Mom and daughter share a laugh-cry moment over quirky estate sale finds, showcasing a curious figurine.

I also have a habit of thinking I’ve found the perfect item, only to realize later that it’s broken, missing an arm, cracked lid, something. It’s practically a tradition at this point.

Of course, some finds do turn out to be treasures. One of my favorite Disney discoveries was a set of three vintage Disney Christmas felt stockings that were 3D, and absolutely adorable. They sold quickly. Over time, we’ve come across a lot of Disney items, which just proves we’re not the only Disney lovers out there. But not everything sells as well as we expect.

Case in point: Disney VHS tapes.

One day, I was at an estate sale solo when I stumbled upon a huge box of at least 45 tapes. I immediately called Angela, practically yelling, “Come quick, and bring money!” I hovered over that box like it was gold. We bought them all. And now… we still have them all. It did lead to an astonishing amount of Instagram views.

Mom's garage sale find! Disney VHS treasures: 30+ classics with rare gems included. Available online tomorrow for your Disney trip nostalgia. ✨ #ThriftingSuccess

You never quite know what you’re going to find at an estate sale, and that’s part of the fun. Every trip is an adventure, and I wouldn’t trade it for anything.

Angela’s Take: The Funniest Estate Sale Finds

The thing is, we find most things funny. Once we start laughing, we can’t stop. It’s the kind of laughter that leaves you silent, with tears streaming down your face. My grandma was the same way, so I guess it runs in the family. That’s honestly been one of the best parts of estate sale hunting, cracking up with my mom over the weirdest things.

It’s especially bad when we film YouTube videos of our estate sale finds. We actually started hiding what we bought from each other because if I pull out a doll that’s seen better days, Mom completely loses it. Somehow, we’ve even managed to sell a few of them.

When we first started, we went a little wild at estate sales. Picture the madness of people hunting for Cabbage Patch Kids, Pound Puppies, or Tickle Me Elmo. Some shoppers roll in with giant carts, staking claim to entire sections. Meanwhile, Mom and I each have about 15 bags strapped to our arms, grabbing anything that catches our eye.

We’re learning to be more selective, but honestly, we just love the thrill of the find. And the laughter? They’re part of the fun and something I will always remember about my mom.