There are times when I have to choose between selling items and donating them to museums or organizations.

My experience has been when I have donated items I find out that they have been sold or left in back rooms. So I have been hesitant to donate. The only advantage is a tax break as they rarely purchase anything.

I do not hesitate to give items to an individual or family when it is directly associated with them. This is especially true with letters and photographs. If you do donate make sure that you receive a letter confirming receipt, but it is up to you to determine the price for tax purposes. You will need that if questioned by the IRS for donated items over $250.

The weather has finally begun to change for the better here in New England so it is time to get out to those yard sales. Good picking!

Picking should begin this month so good luck

Jared