Upon learning my age, he shook his head.

"No way, you're not old enough to work legally. I can't hire you."

Sighing, I realized I'd have to start rummaging through trash bins earlier. If I went late, everything would be picked over.

Disheartened, I let go, picked up the burlap bag, and was about to leave.

"The place is a mess," he exclaimed, clutching his head in frustration. "We're short-staffed and overwhelmed!"

Clever as I am, I caught on immediately and rolled up my sleeves to help clean the tables.

By noon, I had pretty much tidied up the whole store.

The store owner looked stern, worried I might expect...