Protector of Vintage

Spring Fever

2012-02-18T17:10:00.000-06:00

We have had a super easy winter here in Minnesota. I think I have only used the snowblower twice! However, since the ground appears so brown and lifeless without the snow, I went out seeking some color and came home with a pretty African Violet and a pair of vintage crocheted potholders!!

Happy Weekend.

Happy Valentine's Day

2012-02-14T06:00:00.003-06:00

Be Careful

2012-02-07T12:51:00.000-06:00

Over the years I have spent quite a bit of time sitting at a piano. I am not a great player, by any means, but I love the sound of a piano.

Right now the piano I grew-up playing has become available and I want to give it a home with me.

"What? You already have a piano, Ann."

"Yes, I know. I'm trying to sell it. It's relatively new. I like old. I can fit another piano in the living room."

You know how you always hear stories of crazy old ladies that live with 50 cats? Well, if I'm not careful, I'll be known someday as that crazy old lady with all the pianos!!

Did you see this piano in the March 2012 issue of Romantic Homes? The article is entitled, "Small Family, Big House," written by Meryl Schoenbaum. I love the charm of those candles. Now THIS is a piano.

Have a great day!

A Few Finds

2012-02-02T12:44:00.000-06:00

A few favorite finds from last week.

Have a nice day!

Fun and Fantastic Facts

2012-01-28T21:18:00.005-06:00

"Coffee News" is a free, one-page newspaper that can be found in some of the local shops and restaurants around here. It contains interesting bits of news and trivia which I refer to as fun and fantastic facts!! I am going to share a fun and fantastic fact with you right now.

Who was the first writer to submit a typed manuscript to a publisher?

Here is a photo of a bride and groom to break your concentration.

And, here, is the answer. Mark Twain. He submitted The Adventures of Tom Sawyer to Chatto and Windus in 1876. He used a Remington typewriter.

Thanks for stopping by!!

New Jersey and Paris

2012-01-16T16:22:00.000-06:00

I watched "The Purple Rose of Cairo" (1985) a few days ago. The movie takes place during the depression in New Jersey. Only someone like Woody Allen could invent such a clever and creative plot......movie characters leaving the screen and joining the real world. Loved it!!

As for books, I am just starting chapter one of "The Paris Wife" written by Paula McLain.....a fictional novel about Ernest Hemingway and his first wife, Hadley, during the 1920s. I have a hunch I will enjoy it.

Both "The Purple Rose of Cairo" and "The Paris Wife" were recommended to me by my sister. I guess I've been busy snoozing under a rock, because I was unfamiliar with both.

Would love to hear your reviews.

Audrey

2012-01-15T14:52:00.001-06:00

Ballerina, Avid Reader, Best Dressed, Elegant, Humanitarian, Model, Actress, Multilingual...just a few words to describe the talented Audrey Hepburn.

I picked up this 1961 vinyl record at the thrift store last week. It features the score from "Breakfast at Tiffany's."

Luckily, I inherited an old stereo, so I can actually listen to it!!

Have a great day!

Pen Pals

2012-01-01T11:22:00.001-06:00

I don't remember how, but when I was thirteen, I acquired a pen pal from Denmark. In spite of the language barrier, we have managed to keep-up our correspondence all these years.

(postcard from my small collection)

I was a collector of stamps back when I first started writing letters and I used to love the foreign stamps that would arrive on the envelopes from Denmark.

(Christmas card)

(Christmas stamp)

Happy Collecting this year!

Another Adventure

2011-12-31T18:01:00.005-06:00

We took another adventure into St. Paul today. This time we toured the James J. Hill mansion on Summit Avenue. (James J. Hill was the builder of the Great Northern Railway). The mansion contains approximately 36,000 square feet across five floors...42 rooms. It cost nearly one-million dollars and three years to build. We observed beautiful woodwork with elegant carvings, lovely detailed ceilings, grand staircases, gorgeous chandeliers and pretty stained-glass windows. The style is termed: Richardsonian Romanesque.

The home was completed in 1891 with all the modern conveniences....indoor plumbing (13 bathrooms), central heating and both electric and gas lighting.

The mansion is pretty bare. It contains very little furniture so we had to use our imaginations a bit. Photographs of family members, as well as, photographs depicting how the rooms had once been furnished and decorated, are displayed in each room.

I didn't bring my camera along this time since I wasn't allowed to use it at the last historic home we toured. So guess what? Cameras WERE allowed. Disappointed that I was camera-less, my son graciously took a couple of photos for me on his phone and I purchased a few postcards in order to remember the day.

Fun Fact: James J. Hill's wife, Mary, was a waitress when he first met her. Before getting married, he sent her to a "Finishing School" to acquire an education, as well as, the necessary skills and etiquette required of the wife of such an important and wealthy man!

Happy New Year!

Thank you for visiting my blog this year!!

Gingerbread

2011-12-27T08:47:00.001-06:00

Do you like to make gingerbread houses during the holidays? Well, take a look at this huge gingerbread house that greets guests in the front lobby of a nearby hotel. It was constructed by the hotel employees and smelled wonderful!!!

Paris

2011-12-26T08:00:00.004-06:00

I rented, "Midnight in Paris," over the holiday. I usually find Woody Allen's films a bit too slow and neurotic for my taste, but this one I really enjoyed! I loved the plot. I loved catching a glimpse of other time periods. If you have seen it, I'd love to hear what you thought of it.

Merry Christmas

2011-12-25T10:00:00.003-06:00

Christmas Eve Field Trip

2011-12-24T14:39:00.004-06:00

I love touring homes.....old homes.....Victorian homes.......Today I visited the Alexander Ramsey home in St. Paul. (Alexander Ramsey was the first territorial governor of Minnesota). The home has been preserved extremely well and today it was decorated for Christmas just as it would have been decorated for Christmas back in the 1870s. The Christmas trees were adorned with the actual Ramsey family ornaments, the toys displayed were the actual family toys, etc...

Ahh, it was a beautiful home....lovely woodwork, gorgeous chandeliers, stunning architecture, "busy" wallpaper and pretty etched glass doors. Lovely music was being played on the Steinway piano as we entered the home and stood under the Kissing Ball. The "servants" served us cookies freshly baked from the wood-burning stove. The tour guides dressed appropriately for the era and I saw the most gorgeous skating outfit that had been worn by Mr. Ramsey's daughter.

An important fact that I learned today was this: One could estimate the wealth of a family by the number of books owned. Many homes owned only one book. Which one? You guessed it: the Bible.

I wanted to share photos of the home with you, but unfortunately, cameras were not allowed inside. In the carriage house I purchased a postcard and some replica ornaments.

Have a lovely holiday!!

More Christmas

2011-12-22T16:26:00.000-06:00

I love receiving Christmas cards. A sweet blogging friend sent this one to me.

Here is my childhood stocking. My mom made it. I am not sure if Santa will visit this year, but I am hanging it anyway!

Take care~

Christmas

2011-12-21T14:28:00.000-06:00

Happy Holidays!

Need Exercise?

2011-12-16T17:03:00.000-06:00

I have come to the conclusion that you need to be physically fit to survive a trip to IKEA. I spent three hours there today walking around, testing furniture, sorting through fabric samples, checking measurements, weaving my heavy cart through the aisles, etc... I was searching for a small wall-mounted desk for my daughter, which turned-out to be heavier than anticipated.

I think my favorite find of the day was this neat light fixture. Both candles and bulbs can be used with it. I didn't bring it home....just admired it.

You like?

Disturbing

2011-12-13T22:05:00.001-06:00

The holidays have prompted a bit of a crime wave in my area. Many stores have been robbed recently, including a Goodwill.

I'm still out there digging for treasures, though. I found a stack of handpainted pretty plates

and wouldn't the chore of mashing potatoes seem a little easier if you had this pretty utensil to use?

Happy Hunting

"He Knows If You've Been Nice"

2011-12-12T09:31:00.001-06:00

Christmas is coming. Santa is watching.

I found some vintage paper/honeycomb Christmas decorations at the thrift store last week. They may not be super elegant, but I find them to be quite charming.

Have a great day!

Who Loves Winter?

2011-12-07T16:36:00.002-06:00

Reindeer, of course! Reindeer are plentiful in the Arctic, but they can also be found on a nearby farm here in Minnesota. They are quite popular this time of year!! Apparently, reindeer are happiest when it's very cold, very snowy and very windy!! (Considering the weather we are experiencing right now, they must be very happy).

A True Minnesotan

2011-11-26T14:50:00.000-06:00

Happy Thanksgiving

2011-11-24T11:06:00.000-06:00

Season's First Snowfall

2011-11-19T17:50:00.000-06:00

Give-Away Winner

2011-11-18T10:24:00.000-06:00

Well, this morning I used Mrs. Glosser's Math Goodies Custom Random Number Generator.

I am pleased to announce that the winner of "Christmasland" is..............Amy, over at Into Vintage! (Please send me an email with your address, Amy).

Thanks to those that entered!!

~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~

In spite of the chilly weather, a neighbor held a garage sale a few days ago and I picked-up a few items. I chose the lamp because it's pink! and because of the charming detail. The little table needs a bit of work, but I like the detail on it, as well.

Hope you have a nice weekend!

Class Photos

2011-11-15T12:49:00.001-06:00

I purchased a stack of high school class photos at a recent sale for a dollar. All of these students attended Marshall High School in Minneapolis around 1950. These particular photos belonged to Phil. I had a great time reading through the messages written on the backside of the photos.

Dear Phil,

Oh Boy! We're finally graduating. I'll never forget you and that beautiful art. When I get married I'll have you design my dress. Remember the Spokesman Room? How can we forget? Best of luck always.

~Joyce

To Phil,

A friend and talented fellow. Luck and success in your future art career.

~Neil

I wonder what Phil's class picture looked like and I wonder if he ever became an artist. The ~~nosy~~ investigative part of me wants to scamper down to the county library and browse through the Marshall High School yearbooks. But by doing so, I would probably be exhibiting a bit of weird behavior and my time would be better spent elsewhere, right? (FYI, I have already researched the high school on the internet...found its location and many interesting tidbits of info!)

Well, I don't know what I'll do with these photos in the future, but it has been fun imagining what school was like back in the 50s for this group of kids!

Thanks for tuning-in!

P.S. If you would like to be entered in my Christmas Book Give-Away, leave a comment on this post.

Warehouse Sale

2011-11-14T10:47:00.001-06:00

Here are the highlights of some purchases I made at a recent warehouse sale.

Festive Christmas tablecloth

Christmas figurines....big and small.

Christmas napkins written in Danish, I think.

Pretty Southern Belle dresser scarf

Vintage-style kitchen towel....Minnesota hotdishes.

Embroidered pillowcase doll

Craft kits.

The sale prices were very affordable, which was much appreciated because the thrift store prices are skyrocketing around here.

Hope you had a successful thrifting weekend and don't forget to check-out my Christmas book give-away

here.

Linking up with Her Library Adventures

A Give-Away

2011-11-09T19:59:00.042-06:00

I stumbled across a great book at the Salvation Army this week.

Christmasland ReCollections by Ralph del Pozzo and David High, 2006. 128 pages.

It's a small (7 x 7 inches) hard-cover book full of beautiful vintage Christmas treasures along with tidbits of interesting information. It contains a small sampling of collectibles and is not a resource book...more like a cute little coffee table book.

Here is an excerpt from the front inside jacket:
"Christmasland ReCollections is a nostalgic portrait of forgotten treasures, from light-up angels and mischievous pixies to a pine cone band that comes to life on the page."

You can see the authors, and a bit of their collection, in a video segment here.

The Salvation Army had several new copies for sale. They all have the black remainder mark, but otherwise, are in excellent condition and, oh, so cute. Would you like a copy? If so, enter my give-away by leaving a comment on this post. International friends welcome. I will attempt to use the Random Number Generator in selecting a winner on Friday, November 18.

Hope you find a lot of treasures this weekend!

Have a Happy Halloween!

2011-10-31T17:48:00.000-05:00

Waiting for the trick-or-treaters....

Ugh!

2011-10-25T08:39:00.001-05:00

Ughh! I cringe each and every time I watch the thrift shop employees ring-up my breakable purchases!! Several times now items that appeared just fine in the store have arrived home with chips. Sometimes the employees use newspaper to wrap items, but most of the time.....not! The consequence? Money flying out the window. I have come to the conclusion that, although a bit extreme, I'm going to stash bubble-wrap in my purse when I head to the thrifts.

(Injured Christmas Angel)

Thanks for stopping by today!

Walk the Runway

2011-10-22T19:32:00.000-05:00

I came across a few vintage outfits last week at the thrift store.

This dress is homemade and

comes with this cute jacket with the faux fur collar! A string of pearls and a pair of white gloves just might complete the look.

And, on a totally different subject........

Charlie turned two years old today!!

Have a great weekend!

Alpacas!

2011-10-17T10:42:00.000-05:00

Yesterday I rented a table at a Craft/Flea Market in an attempt to sell-off some of my inventory that has been hanging around a bit too long. Unfortunately, I didn't sell much....very few vintage collectors attended.

However, I was assigned a table next to a very nice woman who raises alpacas! I learned all about her farm and products and even purchased this cute pair of glittens made from alpaca fibers.

Have a nice day!

A Glimpse

2011-10-13T16:59:00.001-05:00

Not sure if this hanky is vintage or not.

The vintage tablecloth on the far left was found at a thrift shop where I usually have very little success. The cashier admired the tablecloth and told me it was the second one she has seen come through the shop. The second? Only the second? I've been shopping there for months. No wonder I haven't found much.

Can't pass-up a pink bib apron.

Tiny butter pats.

Looks huge in the photo, but this is a tiny creamer.

I love the design of this piece. I'm having trouble identifying the manufacturer.

Well, that's a glimpse of what I have found recently.

Take care~

Collecting and Collectibles Link Party

2011-10-12T09:22:00.001-05:00

Molly, over at Vintage Velda, is hosting a Collecting and Collectibles Link Party.

I have a passion for just about everything vintage, but have somehow managed to narrow my interests to a few specific areas.

MY SWEATER CLIP COLLECTION

It's been ages since I have found a sweater clip to add to my collection. I have approximately 50 and do tend to sell a few here and there in an effort to keep the collection special and in-control!

Thanks for visiting. I'm off to see what everyone else is collecting!

Smile Often

2011-10-02T23:02:00.000-05:00

My daughter has a very organized science teacher. This wonderful lady takes the time to send a weekly email to parents that contains announcements and updates on what is being studied. At the conclusion of each email she types the words, Smile Often. Isn't that neat?

Roses in our yard, blooming in October, make me smile.

Pretty wedding dresses, displayed at the thrift store, make me smile!

Hope you smile a lot today!!

Thanks for reading.

Piperlime

2011-10-01T17:53:00.004-05:00

I enjoy tuning-in to the television show, "Project Runway." For last week's challenge, the designers were instructed to create outfits reminicent of the '70s, but with a modern twist.

Two of the outfits earned their way to Piperlime, an online retail store, which I just visited a few minutes ago for the first time.

Has anyone purchased anything from this site?

Looks enticing....

Trip to the Library

2011-09-30T17:09:00.000-05:00

I have taken a short break from vintage teen novels and am currently enjoying the following books:

Hope you have a great weekend!

(Another lovely sugar bowl......)

Fairy Lamps

2011-09-27T13:57:00.002-05:00

I notice beautiful fairy lamps (candle lamps) on ebay all the time, but have only come across two during my thrifting adventures. I sold the first one awhile ago. Last week I stumbled across another....the exact same design as the first one...frosted glass, hobnail accents and pretty floral decals.

Through my quick and limited research I learned that candle lamps were used as night lights during the Victorian years. They emit a soft glow and are considered safer than open candles.

I have never been a huge candle fan, but these charming lamps have helped me "see the light."

Do you own any?

Homecoming

2011-09-26T14:00:00.003-05:00

Well, the Homecoming Dance is over.

I made mistakes!! I didn't realize that Homecoming was such a formal affair......I didn't realize that my daughter's date would go out and purchase a special tie to match her dress....I didn't realize that I would have to be at a specific location at a specific time for a photo session....I didn't even realize that a boutonniere was required. (I ended up running around the day of the dance like a mad woman trying to find one.....How does a crumpled white carnation with a purple ribbon sound to you?)

Ughh!! Live and Learn.

P.S. My apologies to any international readers who are unfamiliar with Homecoming.

Homecoming is a "high school, college, or university game, dance, or other event to which alumni are invited." My daughter attended the school football game on Friday night and the dance and party on Saturday night. It's all about school spirit.

Bride and Groom

2011-09-25T10:06:00.000-05:00

These salt and pepper shakers are my favorite "find" from last week's round of thrifting.

A young married couple on one side

but turn them around and you get a glimpse into their future on the other side!

A gift.

Tea?

2011-09-13T10:37:00.012-05:00

My latest Salvation Army purchase. See anything amiss?

Did you notice that the cup and saucer patterns do not match and are from two different manufacturers?

I'm not sure if the mismatch by the thrift store was intentional or not, but I loved each piece, so I purchased the "set."

The Colclough saucer features a pretty pink background adorned with lovely pink rosebuds.

And the Shelley cup has a coordinating pink handle and lovely overall design.

So my question for you today is: Why is Shelley china so popular?

Why does it demand top dollar on ebay? Prettier? Higher-quality? Anyone know?

Thanks and have a lovely day!!

Parade of Homes

2011-09-11T22:35:00.004-05:00

My daughter's current assignment for her high school Interior Design course is to visit several houses listed in the Parade of Homes.

We started off by touring a couple of homes listed in the 2 million dollar range. It was interesting to see the unique lay-outs and custom touches. We viewed several more homes before returning to our quaint, out-of-date, 1960s rambler. Oh, well!

Thanks for stopping by.

Not Much

2011-09-09T18:59:00.000-05:00

Such a busy week with the beginning of a new school year and after-school activities. Not much time to hit the thrift stores, but I did find a few things to share.

A pair of Fire King cups and saucers adorned with tulips....a good reminder that I need to get some bulbs for the garden!

Royal Vale

1941 Bingo Game

A fairly large vintage tablecloth featuring pretty blue roses.

These two vintage radios were purchased at Deb's garage sale. Aren't they cool?

~ Hope you have a nice weekend ~

Boo!

2011-09-06T13:31:00.001-05:00

I've been too easy on the trick-or-treaters in the past!! Not this year, though! On October 31, there will be no more Snickers or Milky Ways or lollipops given-out at this house. The kids will be receiving Ear Wax (Gummy Candy), Witchy Warts, Cob Web Cotton Candy and Oozing Eyeballs instead!!

What do you think?

A Neighbor

2011-09-03T17:57:00.000-05:00

Our neighbor's yard.......lots of old charm.

Late One Night

2011-09-01T10:00:00.000-05:00

Late one night I stumbled across an episode of "My Collection Obsession" on the TLC channel. Have you seen it? After watching a view minutes of the show, I realized that it is not only interesting to see what others collect, but also to see how large, expensive and time-consuming some collections can become!

I felt sympathy for the woman who discovered that her decorative shoe collection wasn't worth nearly what she had anticipated. And what about that high school boy that collects vacuum cleaners?

Maybe you collect figurines?

What I Found

2011-08-30T13:53:00.000-05:00

Well, I did zero thrifting last week.

Here is a sampling of what I found the week before!!

Figurines and tiny Pyrex bowl.

Another pyrex and a vintage tablecloth.....the first one I have found in a LONG time.

Dainty creamer and pink eyelet runner.

Assorted kitchen towels.

Vintage ballerina fabric

and a pretty crochet doily, along with two vintage aprons.

I'm anxious to get back out there and see what I can find!!

~ Have a nice day ~

New York Tennis

2011-08-29T10:15:00.000-05:00

What with Hurricane Irene and all, I wasn't sure if the U.S. Tennis Open in New York was going to be held this year. However, it appears all is well and that Serena Williams is the heavy favorite on the Women's side.

My son took tennis lessons at this arena all summer. Here in Minnesota we usually play outdoors in the summer and head inside once the snow moves in. However, my son did things a bit differently. He played inside this summer......avoiding such elements as the sun, wind and rain. This arena is used for tennis in the summer and magically turns into a hockey arena in October!

Phone Photos

2011-08-28T22:01:00.000-05:00

I forgot to take my camera with me this weekend, so I settled for "Phone Photos."

~ Hope you had a nice weekend ~

Promises

2011-08-20T10:58:00.000-05:00

The promises of a rainbow....

(Thank you for all of your helpful comments about the dress I posted yesterday!)

Here it is!

2011-08-19T15:16:00.002-05:00

So here is the dress I mentioned in yesterday's post. What do you think of it? Is it a vintage piece?

Handmade. Satiny pink bodice. Embroidered organza skirt with cream-colored satiny layer underneath.

I know next to nothing about vintage clothing and dating it. The thrift shop I frequent quite regularly no longer has a designated "vintage clothing" area, so I'm on my own..... sifting through all the racks in search of vintage pieces.

Anyone out there tuning-in to "Project Runway?" I missed a few seasons, but I'm back watching.

Take care~

Work Day

2011-08-18T13:26:00.000-05:00

I neglected the yard throughout most of July due to the intense heat and humidity, so now I am getting myself in gear. Armed with tools, bug spray, Twins cap, garden gloves and clogs, I am busy weeding, digging holes, hauling dirt, planting and watering.

By the way, I found a dress at the thrift store yesterday. I can't wait to see what you think of it. Tune-in tomorrow.

~ Thanks for stopping by ~

A Late Summer Favorite

2011-08-17T19:30:00.001-05:00

One of my favorite parts of late summer is watching the asters bloom. I plant them in early spring and attempt to take good care of them throughout the summer.

These particular asters grow very tall and are getting pushed around a bit by the wind.

I can't wait to see them all unfold!

~ Have a nice day ~

Shopping

2011-08-14T00:03:00.002-05:00

Well, normally my shopping consists of driving from one thrift store to the next or scanning craigslist for the next garage sale or flea market to attend. However, for the past week or so, my thrifting has been replaced by trips to stores, such as, Macy's, Bloomingdale's, Mestad's, The Wedding Shoppe, and on and on and on.......

My daughter is shopping for that perfect dress to wear to her first Homecoming Dance next month!

~ ~ ~ ~

It's Coming

2011-08-12T19:33:00.000-05:00

Looks like Autumn is coming......

So Much Nicer

2011-08-07T02:12:00.000-05:00

I found these two "Early American" Pyrex "fridgies" at the thrift last week.

So much nicer than plastic!!

I have linked-up to Her Library Adventures.

Have a great day!!

Charming Historic Home

2011-08-05T22:00:00.002-05:00

If you are familiar with the Mayo Clinic and happen to be near LeSeur, Minnesota, you might enjoy a visit to this charming historic home. It is the house that W.W. and Louise Mayo built in 1859.

Original Desk

Kitchen

Do you know where the phrase, "sleep tight," comes from? Years ago, beds consisted of mattresses laid across ropes. From time to time, the ropes would loosen and they would have to tightened with a wood tool. Cool!

There is much more to see and learn about this charming historic home. Click here for more info.

~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~

Text and photos for this post courtesy of Virginia Wright-Peterson. Virginia is currently working on a book about the women (wives, mothers, sisters, daughters, etc) who contributed to establishing the Mayo Clinic.

It Doesn't Fit

2011-07-24T17:23:00.000-05:00

I found this cute Gap sweater at the thrift recently. It doesn't fit. Well, of course, it doesn't fit. It's a Girls Size 10! However, I love the print and wish it was available for grown-ups! I purchased it in hopes that one of my nieces might appreciate it.

I just love cardigan sweaters. I guess I'm a little like Mr. Rogers in that regard!

I also love sweater clips!

Thanks for stopping by today.

Almost Brought It Home

2011-07-23T17:15:00.000-05:00

I really think all the heat and humidity has affected my brain. How so?

Well, I stared and examined a vintage wedding dress for approximately 15 minutes at the thrift store yesterday. It was cute. I should have snapped a photo, but like I said, my thinking abilities have temporarily departed.

The dress had a sweetheart neckline, cap sleeves and a tulle underskirt. It was in decent condition, requiring only a few repairs and a good cleaning. The price tag read $9.99. Hey, girls, why spend thousands on a dress? I found one for under $10.00!!

Luckily something prompted me to walk away from it. Afterall, what would I do with it? Already married.

Two weeks ago I did the very same thing with a vintage party dress. I stared and examined it and probably would have brought it home if it hadn't been for its odd color (green/yellow).

Anyway, I did bring home this unique, small bowl.

It features wistera and was made by Royal Standard ~ England.

And I always bring home the pink doilies.

Have a great weekend!

Second Choice

2011-07-14T17:27:00.001-05:00

Since everyone is beating me to all the great treasures over at "My First Choice Thrift Store," I have been forced to move on.

"My Second Choice Thrift store" is nice and clean and features pleasant employees and great prices. However, it doesn't carry much in the line of vintage items, which is why I don't frequent it that often.

I am a big fan of vintage teen novels,

especially those written by Maud Hart Lovelace!!

I am a big fan of pretty china.

These bowls were made in Germany

and I'm not sure who manufactured this cute little creamer.

And that is what I found at "My Second Choice Thrift Store" this week! Not bad, right?

Take care~

Clever Apron

2011-07-10T17:10:00.004-05:00

Collecting vintage aprons is a fun hobby for me because I rarely find any duplicates!!

I like how the hanky and plastic ring form a pocket and

the rick rack is always a charming touch!

Linking to: Her Library Adventures

Thanks for stopping by.

Driving Around

2011-06-29T19:04:00.001-05:00

I think it would be fun to go driving around in this!!

Calling all pyrex collectors! Head over to ZootsuitMama's Blog for a lovely give-away.

Half-Off

2011-06-28T15:07:00.000-05:00

Can't pass-up the Half-Off Sale each season at the local nursery.

This is a Lollipop Lily!

I hope the deer and/or bunnies will leave the lilies alone this year!

Melmac Tray

2011-06-24T21:04:00.002-05:00

I found this cute floral Melmac tray at the thrift shop this afternoon.....perfect for collecting flowers (peonies) from around the yard.

Just slap the word, "peony," on an item and it will most likely end-up in my shopping cart!

See what I mean? Method Laundry Detergent ~ Peony Blossom

Have a great weekend!

"Let Them Eat Cake"

2011-06-19T12:23:00.000-05:00

Have a great day!

Pass the Butter Please

2011-06-15T12:28:00.000-05:00

I started collecting butter pats by accident. I kept finding them and was so fascinated by the fact that little pats of butter had their own beautiful plates. What an elegant concept.

I shared my collection of butter pats in a previous post. Since that time I have sold a few and acquired a few. Here is my latest addition.

Churchill Hotel Ware ~ Made in England ~ Hand Decorated in Glenkinchie Country, Scotland

I found the butter dish the same day.

I was lucky to find some pretty vintage tablecloths last week, as well as, some embroidered pillowcases, towels and kitchen bowls.

I don't know anything about these nesting dolls, but brought them home because of their cute factor.

Thanks for stopping by!

If I Owned a Truck.....

2011-06-08T16:51:00.002-05:00

If I owned a truck, I would have brought this home from the thrift store today!!!!

I stared at it for a long time. I envisioned it in my home with a cute telephone propped on one side, a vase full of pink peonies on the other side and a fresh new floral cushion.

Oh well.

Garage Sale Goof

2011-06-06T08:05:00.000-05:00

For some reason I can remain calm and focused when shopping at the thrift stores, but garage sales are another story.

For example, I have tons of china in my personal collection and tons of china available for re-sale, so then why did this Crooksville, Ohio china end-up in my trunk after visiting a neighborhood garage sale?

And this isn't all of it. There are 10 place-settings plus numerous more serving dishes!!

Happy Monday!

Leftovers

2011-06-01T14:39:00.001-05:00

As mentioned in a previous post, every month I attend a sale held at a neighborhood warehouse that consists of estate sale leftovers. When I go I always keep my expectations low so as to avoid disappointment, but the funny thing is, I always seem to find stuff I like.

Here is a sample of this month's finds. (The big old maples in the front yard are letting-in very little light, so the photos are not the greatest!)

I found these two neat old books: "The Sonnets of Shakespeare" and "The Book of Good Manners." The clock is a Baby Ben Wind-up and is pink! It's a bit beat-up, but we'll just call it shabby chic! It runs pretty well...only a minute or two slow.

This lovely tray and creamer feature pretty pansies. I searched for the sugar bowl, but struck-out.

Charming Royal Gadroon bread/butter plates that would make a nice wall display.

Fun vintage game.

Fire King dish and a vintage tablecloth that coordinate pretty well.

Cute pink gingham apron with tulip appliques.

1969 apron featuring fun graphics.

And last, but not least, two hankies. One features a crochet butterfly and the other a strawberry pattern.

Not bad for leftovers, right?

Thanks for stopping by.

Opening Day

2011-05-22T11:11:00.001-05:00

Any tennis fans out there?

The French Open Tennis Tournament begins today!

To celebrate, I purchased this vintage postcard to add to my collection.

Who will win this year?

Catch that Critter!

2011-05-21T14:00:00.004-05:00

The big news in the neighborhood right now is the frequent visits from Animal Control. One neighbor found a raccoon family living in his attic. Another family has a skunk making its home underneath their garage. We see fox sprinting across the roads and just look at the guest that we have witnessed roaming our yard for the past several days.

Not a great photo, I realize. It's a turkey! It scooted away from me each time I tried to snap a close-up.

From all the recent wildlife activity, one might think we live in a rural area rather than a big-city suburb!!

The turkey sighting got me thinking about these two vintage tablecloths that I own.....same pattern, different colorway. Is it a pheasant? Peacock? Roadrunner? I have no idea.

What's Cooking?

2011-05-20T13:58:00.001-05:00

Some people say that the best recipes come from the cookbooks put together by church groups, schools, resorts, etc....so while searching for those, I stumbled across

this book entitled, "Fabulous '50s Recipe Collection."

A "new" cookbook needs a "new" apron.

Not only do I like Trisha Yearwood's music, but her recipes look pretty good, too. A "new" cookbook deserves a vintage pyrex casserole dish

and pretty dessert bowls.

Have you found any good recipes lately?

Quack

2011-05-09T12:24:00.000-05:00

Once in awhile I find something at the thrift store that really makes me smile.

"Quack"

I have linked up with Thrift Share Monday.

Have a great day!

Out Walking

2011-05-07T20:03:00.000-05:00

Lovely spring day! After sitting outside in the sun for several hours watching the boys play baseball, I decided that the dog and I needed some exercise. Out for a walk we went.

This lonely house is located on our block. No one has lived here in quite some time. The windowboxes need tending. The deck is collapsing. The roof is in need of repair.

The pretty tulips, however, have not given-up!!

Hope you have a nice weekend! Thanks for stopping by.

Taking Bets

2011-05-05T22:15:00.000-05:00

I have always wanted to read Anna Karenina, but the length of the novel (1170 pages) has always scared me off. Well, the time has come. Will I finish?

(Vintage yellow rose luncheon set from the thrift shop).

Way Behind

2011-04-26T17:08:00.001-05:00

I am way behind in sharing my thrifting treasures. Much of what I have found recently is currently taking a bath, but here is a small sampling....

"Miss Helen" hostess aprons are so elegant and frilly!

This has got to be my favorite Taylor Smith Taylor pattern so far!! I only found a few pieces to this set, but love the colors and design.

And, I can't possibly pass-up lovely linens for the kitchen!

Happy Easter

2011-04-24T12:06:00.002-05:00

Free!

2011-04-20T11:00:00.001-05:00

Okay, Mother Nature has delivered some snow and rain today, but I'm not depressed. Why? Because the employees at the grocery store were handing out FREE small bouquets of flowers this morning. That's all I need....a few pretty flowers to raise my spirits!

I found the floral embroidered gloves at an ocassional sale over the weekend. I bet they would look nice with a pretty Easter dress.

Have a nice day!

Happy Birthday

2011-04-16T16:38:00.002-05:00

I found these cute Irmi candle holders while out thrifting a few weeks ago. My kids all have spring birthdays and, even though they are not two years old anymore, I thought it would be fun to display these lovely treasures.

Happy Spring!

2011-04-15T22:20:00.002-05:00

I never store the snowblower away until May 1. Am I crazy?

I think not!

This is the view outside my front door this evening.

Movies and Cupcakes

2011-04-02T18:25:00.005-05:00

So, I finally got around to viewing "Young Victoria" (2009). I truly enjoyed it and thought the acting was quite convincing. I am not sure why I procrastinated about seeing it! I love stories set during that time period.

Now I am wondering about the new "Jane Eyre" movie. I love the story and have seen several versions. Our local newspaper rated it 4.5 stars out of 5, so it must be worth seeing, right?

What goes well with a good movie? A good cupcake, of course!! I don't think the specialty cupcake bakeries are as popular where I live as compared to other parts of the country, but after viewing fun television shows, such as, "Cupcake Wars," I was determined to see what our area had to offer.

We chose, "Sweet Retreat." We visited on a busy Saturday afternoon, so the majority of the cupcakes had already been devoured by hungry patrons. Business was brisk!! Seating and parking were limited, but the cupcakes were delish!!

Sweet Retreat
ON 50th & FRANCE IN EDINA
5013 France Ave South
Minneapolis, MN 55410

Have a great weekend!

A New Discovery

2011-04-01T18:10:00.001-05:00

I zipped out to an outlet mall today and discovered a cute antique/vintage shop. There it was.....right along with Nike and Old Navy!

~ Had fun browsing ~

The Painted Porch

6750 Frontage Road West

Medford, MN 55049

An Estate Sale

2011-03-28T10:03:00.001-05:00

It's Monday! I am joining Thrift Share Monday and Flea Market Finds!!

~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~
I had not attended an estate sale in ages, so when I saw an advertisement for one in my area this weekend,

I felt a bit giddy with excitement! I knew I was not going to be able to get to this one on time because of family commitments. I ended-up being FOUR HOURS late...ouch...and quickly discovered that the items of interest to me had been sold earlier in the day, but that's the way it goes! Better luck next time.

I found this cute Glasbake Loaf Pan at the thrift store this week. I think some blueberry/lemon bread would be appropriate!

I also brought home a few copies of "Good Old Days." Looks like some fun reading.

Sue, of svelteSTUFF, and I had a little swap last week. Sue collects Vera (Neumann) items, so I sent her a Vera hanky that I had found recently and, in return, she sent me this lovely sweater clip to add to my collection!! Blogging is great!!! Thanks again, Sue!

Thrifting

2011-03-21T10:20:00.005-05:00

I am participating in Thrift Share Monday over at Apron Thrift Girl and have also linked-up with Her Library Adventures for even more thrifting fun.

Last week was a bit more successful for me as far as digging around for treasures is concerned.

Here is a sampling of what I brought home.

Beautifully embroidered tablecloth,

another vintage tablecloth

lovely gingham aprons (the pink apron has pretty blue embroidered detailing)

a few more hankies

scary

egg plate

prayer plate

vintage decals and birthday candles

comic books!

pretty china and a pink-handled ice cream scoop

lovely book purchased from Garage Sale Gal

The majority of the items I purchase are destined for re-sale....an attempt to make a little money. The snow globe, however, stays home.

I'm off now to see what everyone else found this past week!

What was that?

2011-03-20T12:28:00.000-05:00

Last night I was sitting at my computer trying to ignore the ache in my elbow that was caused by either tennis, typing or the arm exercises I had over-anxiously attempted earlier in the day, when I heard the most unexpected sound........thunder!! We haven't heard the sound of thunder in many months...many long months!!!! I almost didn't recognize it and had to really listen closely for fear it wasn't thunder at all, but something Japan or Libya-related instead!! Maybe spring is truly making an appearance!

I attended a sale over the weekend that had tables and tables covered in hankies. I do not intentionally collect hankies and they haven't proven to be great re-sale items for me, however, I did select a few, such as, the Vera pictured above. I also found some nice cheery custard cups.

Have a nice day!

A Bit of Nostalgia

2011-03-10T12:56:00.003-06:00

When I was in junior high I joined the school bowling league. School buses would deliver us to one of the bowling alleys in town at the end of the school day. I recall the experience as being quite fun, in spite of the fact that the team I played on never did very well. I still have my "last place" certificate to prove it!

Anyway, when I saw this vintage sweater clip in an online shop recently, it triggered these fond memories, so I bought it. I think it makes a cute addition to my sweater clip collection.

Been bowling lately?

What I Found

2011-03-07T11:09:00.000-06:00

I pounded the pavement last week to come-up with some items to share today.
I am joining Thrift Share Monday over at Apron Thrift Girl.

I admire the excellent embroidery and crochet detailing on this dresser scarf.

A small platter with wheat motif...lovely colors.

Yellow gingham apron with embroidered wine glasses.

Fire King bowl and two smaller bowls chosen for their charming swirly design.

Four Knowles dinner plates adorned with bluebells.

Jumper pattern!

This elegant southern belle is crocheted into the corner of this delicate hanky.

And, lastly, a couple of good books. Afterall, a house is not a home without a good jump rope book and a quick meal!

Out the Door

2011-03-05T14:31:00.000-06:00

If I had somewhere interesting to go today,

I would select this dress from my closet,

add a few accessories and out the door I would go!

Discoveries

2011-03-02T14:35:00.005-06:00

Well, my thrifting adventures last week led to the following discoveries:

a. some of the thrift stores I visit have started to tape sewing patterns together and sell them in bundles. (I don't like that. I can't see what I am buying.)

b. some of the thrift stores I visit are no longer stocking vintage books. They seem to be focusing on the current best-sellers. (I don't like that either.)

Here are a few of my "finds" from last week.

This is a cool deviled egg tray with a fleur de lis design in the center. I did some preliminary research, but haven't determined the maker yet. Do you know?

I found 4 of these pretty luncheon sets

a Christmas tablecloth

a 1950s Paris guidebook along with a children's book from the 70s

a cute dish towel embroidered with mushrooms

and last, but not least, a cute embroidered dresser scarf.

Have a nice day!

Shopping

2011-02-28T15:01:00.002-06:00

My daughter and I rarely go shopping together anymore primarily because she is at the age where she is embarrassed to be seen hanging-out with me and because our tastes are vastly different......"Coach" vs. "Walmart."

However, last Friday night we ventured out together to Michael's in search of some school project materials and ended-up having a lot of fun sifting through the $1 and $2 bins. We loaded up our cart! My daughter found a lot of cute items perfect for sprucing-up the decor in her bedroom and here was my haul.

Wooden hangers, acrylic drawer pulls, tags, notecards

more paper products, plus shelf paper.....all in pretty green and pink florals....a favorite color combination of mine!

As for thrifting.....I think everyone is beating me to all the great treasures, but I did manage to find a few items last week that I will share tomorrow.

Have a nice day!

House for Sale

2011-02-24T00:00:00.003-06:00

From time to time I scour the ads in search of neat vintage homes that are for sale. I have no plans to move. I just do it for fun. Yes, it's a strange hobby, especially when my time could be better spent cleaning, doing laundry and.....shoveling snow.

However, look at this neat 1912 home.

4 bedrooms, 3 baths, 2857 square feet. Love that big porch!

Vintage Veronica

2011-02-23T00:01:00.005-06:00

I have stumbled across, yet another, vintage-themed book for all you avid readers out there.

This one is entitled "Vintage Veronica" by Erica Perl. (Young Adult Literature)

I haven't read it yet, but here is a review.

From Booklist

Almost 16, Veronica has lied about her age to get a job at the largest used-clothing store in the Northeast (“The Original Dollar-a-Pound!”). Veronica separates the wheat from the chaff, marking the true vintage for the “Real Deal” floor. Despite her weight, Veronica has an eye for fashion, which manifests itself in crinolines and bowling shirts (together) and sketching. She catches the eye of several of her coworkers, including mean girls Zoe and Ginger and a thin, twitchy guy she thinks of as the Nail. In her first novel, Perl masterfully sets her scene. The store, with its giant chute dumping clothes into “the pile” for the customers (aka “the pickers”), is almost a character in itself. But the author is also quite adept at writing people, especially the reptile-loving Nail, whose rejections and longings match Veronica’s. With her pigtails, bulk, and hybrid outfits, it’s hard to envision Veronica as the fashion icon others admire. But her story is filled with emotions (and language!) that are both earthy and real, and a romance that’s as complicated as it is sweet. Grades 9-12. --Ilene Cooper

Still Standing

2011-02-22T12:37:00.000-06:00

Well, Mother Nature bestowed MANY inches of snow upon us over the last two days,

but we are still standing! I purchased some pretty purple tulips at Target today to celebrate our survival

and to encourage spring to arrive!

A Sale!

2011-02-19T13:17:00.000-06:00

Yesterday I found a listing on Craigslist for an "Occasional Estate Sale." How intriguing. Just what is an occasional estate sale? I gobbled down a couple of cinnamon rolls for energy and headed out to investigate.

It turns out that the sale was set-up in a nearby warehouse and, after walking around for a bit, I came to the conclusion that the merchandise was, most likely, leftovers from various estate sales, which is fine by me because I am usually drawn to items that no one else seems to find any value in any way!

Rain cap? A "must have."

Glove dryers? I need those.

Kitchen aprons? You can never have too many.

One lonely cherry glass? Put it in my cart.

Sweater clips!!! Great additions to my collection.

And so on......

I found lovely items, low on monetary value, but high on vintage charm.

Can't wait for next month's "Occasional Estate Sale."

The Secret Lives of Dresses

2011-02-18T00:40:00.000-06:00

My sister sent me an email the other night asking if I had heard about this book yet. (Isn't it great to have people watching out for you?) Well, I had not heard of this book yet and the title and cover appeared most intriguing, so I immediately searched for information about the book on the internet, read a brief review and flew out the door to purchase it!

The author, Erin McKean, has a blog entitled, A Dress a Day.

Happy Reading!

Spring Will Come

2011-02-17T11:13:00.004-06:00

Just when you think you simply can not face the sight of another fluffy, white snowflake, the seed and flower catalogues start appearing in your mailbox!! Instant mood improvement!

I have my eye on these Bella Anna Hydrangeas!!

So, not only did I have a great garden catalogue to browse through yesterday......I scored a tablecloth at the thrift store featuring seed packets!!!

I love coincidences.

Thrift Share Monday

2011-02-14T11:47:00.000-06:00

Happy Valentine's Day!

Today, for the first time, I am participating in Thrift Share Monday over at Apron Thrift Girl.

This past week I found a small floral vintage tablecloth,

another vintage tablecloth perfect for summer picnics,

a pair of pretty vintage crocheted pillowcases,

a vintage Christmas apron with a pocket in the shape of a bell!

8 Vera napkins (these are not vintage, but are part of the re-release of some of her items)

and a dainty hanky featuring red roses and tiny hearts!!

Hope you have a nice day!

I Learned Something New

2011-01-31T13:32:00.001-06:00

Last week at the thrift store I spotted a cute casserole dish that I just assumed was Pyrex. I liked the design and bright green floral design, so I brought it home. As I washed it up I noticed it was a Glasbake piece, not Pyrex. I had never even heard of Glasbake! I had fun researching the company and acquiring some interesting information.

The rest of my "finds" from the week included the tablecloth pictured above, pretty hankies,

six crocheted coasters? (not sure)

and two aprons....strawberry and rooster themes.

Another slow week, but I'm grateful for what I did find!!

Take care~

I Knew You Were Coming

2011-01-23T20:30:00.000-06:00

So I Baked a Cake!

This cake plate was probably the highlight of my thrifting last week!

Several "Barefoot Contessa" mixes were recently on sale at the bookstore, of all places, so here is the cake I plan to bake!

Take care~

What is it?

2011-01-19T11:28:00.001-06:00

I picked this up at the thrift store last week. Is it a drying rack? Quilt rack?

It has some lovely detail, but is very light-weight. I purchased some refurbishing supplies, but might just leave it alone :)

I also found this vintage tablecloth featuring state flowers,

another vintage tablecloth, a lovely crocheted butterfly hanky and some boxed pillowcases. Not much, but I'm not complaining!

Thanks for stopping by!

Santa

2011-01-11T12:53:00.001-06:00

This year Santa didn't bring me any vintage treasures, but he did leave me this cute necklace with little baubles and ribbon and some FlowerBomb perfume!! I enjoy its pleasant scent; not overpowering.

Masterpiece Theatre is airing the series "Downton Abbey" this month. The first episode takes place during the 1912-1914 time period. Are you watching? I missed the first episode, so I think I will need to rely on Netflix to help me get caught-up.

Have a nice day!

Second Hand Rose

2011-01-10T13:22:00.005-06:00

Ahh, the lingering aroma of fudge and sweet potatoes fills the house today. Old Man Winter forced us to postpone our Christmas get-together with relatives, so we had a festive celebration this past weekend.

The thriftstore shelves have been fairly bare around here lately and I can not remember the last time I purchased a pretty vintage tablecloth. However, I did find something.....

this cute poster depicting a thrift shop called, "Second Hand Rose." I think I'll hang it in the breezeway area of our home where I store my vintage re-sale items.

Stay warm!