DEAR HARRIETTE: I went to a fashion swap at the home of one of my co-workers. The gathered ladies had a lot of fun, and we walked away with some interesting things. When I got home and reviewed my loot, I must say I was a bit disappointed. In the frenzy of the moment, I selected a bunch of things that, in the light of day, look dated, worn or otherwise not really for me. I don't want to throw them out, but I'm not sure what to do. The next swap isn't for a few months. Plus, I'm not sure if it would seem rude to bring stuff back. What should I do? -- Bad Swap, Syracuse, New York
DEAR BAD SWAP: Don't give it another thought. Go directly to your local charity, either a church, Salvation Army or Goodwill, and give the clothes away. You can get a tax write-off receipt if you choose. There is no need to hold onto the items until the next swap. And you're right: It could seem awkward.
Know that whoever brought those items to the swap was ready to get rid of them. You just don't happen to be the final owner.