When I bought a new station wagon I wanted some bright fabric for the floor in the back, to stop dog hair and dirt digging into the carpet. There was a council clean-up on the way to my father's house, and on the way I saw some bright fabric by the curb. But it was curtains for a child's room so I decided not to cut it up and instead take it to the local charity shop. Then, when I pulled up opposite my father's house empty handed, I saw a large bag on the grass verge with items spilling out of the top, and knew this time I would be successful! As I pulled out cardigans, trousers etc and rejected them, I felt someone watching me from the neighbour's front porch. I looked up and said "These are for the council clean-up aren't they?" and received the reply "No, that's our clothes; we're going away for the weekend!"
Fortunately the house was rented and the people soon moved on, so I didn't have to face them again!