Vancouver's Craigslist page just got creepy...unused condoms anyone?

I like to pop onto craigslist once and while, mostly to check out the job section for writing gigs…naturally. I was reading a sustainability article this morning about giving your ‘junk' away for free on websites such as http://www.freesharing.org/ or the ‘free' section of http://www.craigslist.com/. Next thing I know, I find myself perusing a long list of bizarre items that some sad souls have taken the time to photograph and post in the ‘free' section of craigslist.

I get the environmental impact of simply tossing these treasures into the trash and I'm all for the re-use, reduce, recycle principle. However, a few items…well…crossed the line shall we say. Allow me to share…

Here's my top 5 of the most inappropriate items found posted on Craigslist:

5) A leather wine skin, resembling that of a bladder. Really, it's a much spankier version of a water cantina. Throw this little bad boy into your handbag ladies – a perfect fit!

4) How ‘bout some dirt people? Yes, you heard that right ladies and gentlemen, soil is up for grabs. I did not know that we must otherwise pay for this? Hmph.

3) Just hear those sleigh bells jing-a-ling, ring ting ting-a-ling too. Christmas tree anyone? It's miniature. 'Give it to your pet' it reads…here ya go pooch, happy holidays.

2) Here's a gem – ‘Garage emptied and in alley'. In other words, come pick up my bag of garbage please. Doesn't the city take care of this?

1) Unused condoms. Yes people, you heard that right. This, amongst a variety of toiletries left on ones doorstep for ‘pick up anytime before 10pm' is simply not acceptable. And perhaps a little deranged.

And there you have it folks – the best things in life really are free! I'm thinking of posting an FYI notice in this section of craigslist that reads a little something like this…ahem…

Dear craigslist posters,

Although I commend your environmental efforts and offer you an ‘A' for effort in terms of sharing your wealth with the world, might I remind you that there are some fabulous folks out there willing to help…and they are called homeless people. That's right, leave your goodies by the closest dumpster and voila – they're snatched up in a jiffy. No digital photos or catchy commentary required.