Talkin' Trash, Yo

Why is it that if one, me in particular, willingly purchases an overpriced service or commodity, and the seller throws in some free junk, we (or I) feel like we're getting away with something?

For example, I've been a daily subscriber to the Dallas Morning News for about seven years now.

I'm not sure what the actual annual discount for being a subscriber is, but it ain't much less than just buying the paper on a daily basis works out to be. I guess the main difference is that I can leisurely pick the paper up off the front yard each morning instead of having to drive to the nearest convenience store.

But there are other perks to being a subscriber.

Several times throughout the year, vendors of common household items will throw in a sample of their latest product in the weekend paper. Usually, it's a soap or detergent product. Occasionally, it's a razor.

Even better, on occasion, are the free food samples that come with the paper. Cookies. Snack bars. Anything chocolate. And free.

As I picked up the paper this morning, there was a 13 gallon GLAD ForceFlex with Stretchable Strength neatly packaged with the daily news. As it was still early, I wanted to drive around the neighborhood and swipe the free samples from the unknowing dim-wits who live around me. But then maybe it would only create a horrible ripple effect resulting in the paper deliver getting fired for theft. So, I'm glad I didn't.

However, I have been looking forward to throwing out the trash today. Throughout the day, I was searching for anything and everything to throw away so I could replace the trash sack in our kitchen can.

After throwing out anything that wasn't too heavy to lift, I think I'm finally there.

Is this what I've been reduced to? Somebody please save me from myself.