on a whim i stopped into a local hospice which i've never had to much luck with finding anything in.. 
but i gave it another shot and this time... it was a success! 
this is what i purchased 
instyle magazine (the color issue!)
huge spool of gold sheer "ribbon"
a dictionary 
a stack of lined note pad pages
tulle and white beaded embellishments  
all... for $2!!
these are fun finds.. and has given me some extra hope for that little thrift store yet..
it just takes a little time and patience