Demure Folk

NOT TOO SHABBY GIVEAWAY

2011-11-04T07:53:00.010-04:00

Yes, yes! I am so honored to be hosting a Shabby Apple giveaway on my blog. If you haven't heard of Shabby Apple by now, you are likely one of two things. You are either not a gal who loves simple, classy dresses with a vintage flare. Or you are living under a rock.

Shabby Apple offers women's dresses that make them feel beautiful for "what they wear, not what they bare." If that isn't enough to make you feel warm, fuzzy, and powerful as a woman: Shabby Apple also partners with Unitus, donating 5% of its net sales to support work in India.

Before showing you the dress that I chose to give away to one lucky reader, here are just a few of the knockouts that you'll find while perusing Shabby Apple's wide assortment of drool-worthy dresses.

(Confidential, Tinsel Town collection)

(4.0, Academia collection)

(Bianca, Roamin' Holiday collection)

The Edwardian-style collar on this swiss dot dress is perfect!

(Fork-Tailed Devil, Up and Away collection)

(Cider, The Berkshires collection)

But the dress that I chose, I must admit, was inspired by my overwhelming feelings of wanderlust lately. Naturally, I chose The Traveler to give away! The Traveler is adorned with a v-neck bow tie collar, and a subtly striped bodice. It is available in XXS-Large. It is sized generously, so it would be wise to size down one or two sizes!

1. Enter by liking Shabby Apple on Facebook! Leave a comment below after you've done so!

2. Take a look around Shabby Apple.com and find your perfect dress for the upcoming holiday season. Leave a comment below sharing which dress you'd chose for the occasion.

You have until Friday, November 11th at 12:00pm EST to enter! One winner will be chosen at random.

One last thing! Demure Folk readers receive a special coupon! Receive 10% off your Shabby Apple purchase within the next 30 days by using this discount code during checkout:

Good luck!

PT. 6 - HALLOWE'EN

2011-11-01T09:25:00.005-04:00

Thanks to Vegan Treats and the Boston Veg Fest, I had my first donut in 6 years and my first cannoli ever. It was love.

(Flowers from Sam, for our "half-iversary.")

Quiet moments around our home, as the temperature is dropping and the days are shortening.

So, I've been sick as a dog for three weeks now. I mean, coughing so hard that I'm pretty sure I've torn holes in my lungs. I was nearly in tears last night just trying to crawl into bed.

But, it didn't stop me from making (vegan) finger cookies for the kids, and getting all dressed up. Of course, no one really knew who I was, even after explaining it to them. That's okay, though, because this one was purely for myself.

TA DA! I'm Idgie Threadgoode. It wasn't as detailed of a costume as I was hoping. I had an old 1920's fishing pole, too, but it was just too awkwardly long to carry about.

Enjoy...

PT. 5

2011-10-17T09:21:00.002-04:00

What a whirlwind weekend. I thrifted some much needed winter wear, all in ivory strangely enough. We went to IKEA, which I hadn't been to in years. Mostly, I'm very excited to say I walked away with woodland creature cookie cutters. Then off to Julie and Chris's party. Next morning it was my record-breaking day at the flea market, where I spent 4 hours. Lastly, we spent the afternoon with our friend at the Essex Shipbuilding Museum.

What do I have to show for it all? A sore throat, sore body, and a pickled animal which I will talk about later.

PT. 4

2011-10-09T17:54:00.002-04:00

My oh my. The weeks are just flying by and I hardly notice it. I woke up with an awful neck ache. The kind where you've lost about 75% of your mobility. So, forgive the unenthused face of mine. I'm actually thrilled to be in a nursery. I find them so soothing.

My favoritest backpack in the world, which I picked up for a mere $5 over the summer.

And the gatherings on my desk.

PT. 3

2011-10-04T09:44:00.002-04:00

Fall is creeping in. I'm more excited for Halloween than usual, despite having much less time to actually take part in the festivities.

The flea market was rained out, so I wound up digging in $1 bins to find these little bits to tide me over. The bisque bird is a whistle!

I went on my own little nature walk. I find it so refreshing to take note of the details I'd normally pass by.

PT. 2

2011-09-25T13:01:00.002-04:00

Porter Mills Studios in Beverly had an open house yesterday. Even though I was very sick I went to show my support. Even though it's just the tail end of a song, I'm really glad I got Lillie dancing on video.

(SWAY)

Mr. Ziskie

Mr. Ziskie's lovely work.

Photo Diary Pt. 1

2011-09-12T06:22:00.002-04:00

I know I've sort of disappeared. I recently started a wonderful job at a wonderful place. It's strange because I actually look forward to going to work and Mondays. I feel so so lucky. In a nutshell, I work at an afterschool program where I get to make a difference in kids' lives, and they make a difference in mine.

So, I figured the big solution to my flakiness here is: more pictures, less words. Photo diary? I think so.

Finding Lightness and Inspiration

2011-08-03T10:27:00.005-04:00

In light of recent internet ongoings, involving a pal of mine and her special day, I wanted to rise above all of the muck to find some lightness and inspiration. I don't usually say much here, but it's time for some positivity. Big post time!

I wish I could dress exclusively in 1930's feedsack dresses, but they're just so hard to come by. I know I'm not alone in this. We all know that the Depression Era was a time of hardship, and that the struggles faced by many families was extraordinary. Now so many of us look back fondly and we can't help but feel inspired. Not by the hardship itself but by both the beauty that existed despite it and the beauty that somehow arose from it. Clothes were homemade of natural fibers in neutral colors. The dresses were modest, yet breezy, and cut simply.

I've met people who are "buffs," so to speak, of almost all eras. Every era has its own skeletons, and we respect them while remaining fascinated by what existed around them. Heck, eBay itself categorizes its vintage clothing by these eras (WWI, WWII, Depression Era, etc.) as a frame of reference to a specific style.

My Grandma was born in 1930 and grew up on a struggling farm in Michigan throughout the tail end of the Great Depression. She did a lot of the labor herself as a tiny girl, and tells me of how hard Michigan's winters were during that time. I have a deep appreciation for what she and others went through, as she shows me her old photos. This doesn't mean a little squeak doesn't occasionally slip out when I see the cute clothing she wore. She just smiles at me, and loves that I appreciate it.

Time for pretty stuff.

Some rags from Ralph Lauren's 2010 Spring collection, followed by Benjamin Bixby's collection, both designers inspired by the Depression Era:

And who hasn't heard of O Brother, Where Art Thou?, a comedy set in rural Mississippi during the Great Depression. (Side note: This movie had a budget of $26 million, and made $71 million in the box office. I really can't even begin to guess how much of that went into costumes, props, and set design.) Aside from the aged sepia-toned cinematography that earned them an Academy Award nomination, the music is tops! They stayed true to period-specific folk and bluegrass music with the Soggy Bottom Boys:

Well, I could go on and on in the case of film and TV. (Fried Green Tomatoes is a personal favorite.) We've all enjoyed reproductions of this era in serious, lighthearted, gritty, beautiful, relevant and irrelevant forms. Don't even get me started on my favorite television show, Carnivale.

Too bad, I'm started! Not only is Carnivale set in the Great Depression, but its the story of a travelling carnival in the Dust Bowl. While the show is gripping and compelling for its story value, it won five Emmy Awards including Outstanding Costumes For A Series, Outstanding Hairstyling For A Series, and Outstanding Cinematography For A Single-Camera Series. I'm glad that shows like this have been made and that I'm not the only one who finds beauty and aesthetic value in them.

I'll end with the song Dust Bowl Dance by Mumford and Sons. I ask that we all try a little harder to be better to each other, especially strangers.

Harry Smith Frolic

2011-07-11T11:45:00.012-04:00

We went to a little folk festival over the weekend, with our banjo-playin' and fiddle-playin' friends, and it was pretty much the best weekend I could have hoped for. The festival is in the middle of the woods, on a camp site, down a long dirt road in the Berkshires. Old-time music lovers gather to play their hearts out, non-stop for two days. The sound of 10 or so circles of musicians all playing at once, throughout the trees, is so surreal.

Of course no trip to the Berkshires is complete without me getting my feet wet in a river and picking wild berries.

Lilly's tiny mama playing a big ol' bass.

Fourth of July

2011-07-05T09:39:00.002-04:00

Just a quick little post to say I had the most wonderful Fourth of July, thanks to some incredible friends. I was hoping to get portraits in front of my decrepit 48-star flag, but thunderstorms quickly rolled in, so we hunkered down to watch Independence Day.

I made blueberry and strawberry topping for ice cream bowls, and a cake I'm pretty darn proud of. It's my family's secret recipe for banana cake - veganized and Americanized.

I hope you all had a wonderful weekend!

Bernadette Peters

2011-06-29T13:26:00.002-04:00

I'm a big fan of Steve Martin. I'm not going to lie to you, it's mostly because he's the king of banjo. I'm pretty glad that I finally got around to watching The Jerk, because even though it's made and set in the late 1970's, there are so many scenes reminiscent of previous decades. The opening scene is Steve Martin and his family set, in what appears to be, the Depression Era south, singing and stomping on the front porch. Then he's wearing an aviator costume! Then he joins a circus! It's nuts.

Also, there's this adorable actress with such great style, Bernadette Peters. I'm pretty envious of her hair. It sort of makes me want to impulsively get a crazy perm.

Her and Steve Martin singing "Tonight You Belong To Me" on the beach.

New Home, New Life

2011-06-25T18:53:00.002-04:00

I've been going through so many changes lately in my life. New friends, new memories, new outlook, new hobbies, new favorite places. One of the best has been moving. Don't get me wrong, we know our former apartment was "cute" but the quirks of an early 1800's home were a little more than I could handle. I'd been keeping my eye out for my dream apartment and it just happened to pop up out of the blue.

I was like a child with sights on the best candy in the world. Not only is the apartment my ideal dream apartment, but there are so many improvements to our quality of life here. We have a small yard, not one but TWO porches, and most importantly laundry on site. I have missed all of these simple things that I took for granted.

We're still in the process of painting and buying furniture, but here are some sneak peeks at our little home. I have so many summer plans dancing around in my head. I can't wait to buy porch furniture, throw (quiet) parties, and grill veggie kabobs.

A pretty 1919 fruit box I picked up last weekend for just 3 bucks!

My wonderful friend Adam restored this frankenstein handmade fiddle for me. I played for a couple of years when I was little, so hopefully I'll get around to picking it up again.

Bunny paws.

Clever Nettle Collaboration

2011-06-23T06:05:00.002-04:00

I've been meaning for a while to share with you all that Anja of Clever Nettle and I have gotten together to sell some vintage goods! For the past, oh I don't know, three years I'd say, I've been collecting some vintage dresses and whatnot here and there. I planned to open a big ol' store, and thanks to my own procrastination things got out of control. Coming to the realization that I'd probably never get around to it, Anja came up with the brilliant idea of us working together.

Well, her shop is gosh darn awesome and she takes the best store photos I've ever seen, so I was honored and excited. It's good to see the pretty rags out of their boxes, on cute models, and making their way to new homes. Of course, some were awfully hard to say goodbye to. Some are from my personal wardrobe that I just never wore.

A few are from one magical trip to the Berkshires that I'm kicking myself for not documenting. We were on our way to Mount Greylock, when a honest to goodness true blue barn sale was happening around a corner bend. The barn was filled with antiques, where I found a dirty box full of dresses and linens. They hadn't seen the light of day for decades. My defective heart was beating so fast! These are a few from that day:

I'm glad all of those frocks have found their way to pretty ladies now, but here are some more favorites still waiting for homes! My most coveted was the 30's cream lace number. So perfect for a wedding.

Click the images to see the item! Go check out the rest of the shop now for tons more pieces, including a mammoth amount of 50's cotton dresses!

Super 8

2011-06-11T13:44:00.002-04:00

Oddly enough, we're surrounded by drive-in theaters, but they're all one to two hours away, so it's not as often as I'd like that we go. It's one of my favorite things to do, ever since I was little and going to the cherry-themed drive-in theater in my hometown.

We went to see Super 8, because the truth is that I'm a sucker for apocalyptic blockbusters. If you're thinking of seeing it, I can tell you that it's a little like Cloverfield meets War of the Worlds.

The weather was as beautiful as could be, and the evening was marked nicely with root beer and kettle corn from Trader Joe's, that I've just been waiting for an excuse to buy.

Sarah and Box's Depression-Era Wedding

2011-06-11T07:00:00.006-04:00

Maria of Adelaide's Homesewn recently posted about the most beautiful wedding I have ever seen, for which a dress from her shop was worn by the bride's mother. Okay, so it's no secret that I'm a gushing fan of the country bumpkin way of life. The bride is clearly a woman after my own heart. Can I marry her?

Read the entire post, and see the rest of the photos, over at Adelaide's Homesewn. Also, check out Sarah's Etsy shop, Mouse Trap Vintage; her shared blog with her sister, Good Twin. Bad Twin.; and her wedding blog, A Hobo Wedding!

Sweetheart of the Rodeo

2011-06-10T06:58:00.002-04:00

I think I implied that I was going to make a giant post about moving next. Well, that was the plan, but that's for tomorrow. Today I just wanted to let you know about a sweet young gal named Dakota who lives in Vermont. She's the lady behind Sweetheart of the Rodeo. I can't help but feel that we're kindred spirits, what with our shared adoration for abandonment, countryside, and all things reminiscent of the Dust Bowl.

Inspired

2011-06-09T09:47:00.005-04:00

Just some inspiring things to tide you over until I write all about moving in a week! A lot of excitement and dread is to follow. But, it explains why I am feeling so newly inspired.

Like my stuff? Buy my stuff!

2011-05-22T19:13:00.002-04:00

I need to let a lot of my things move on to new homes. I'm overrun! I hope to have a yard sale for the less special things, but here's the beginning...

Onward to my eBay store!

Cross Creek

2011-05-18T14:40:00.002-04:00

A sweet movie from 1983 based on the memoir of author Marjorie Kinnan Rawlings (The Yearling). It takes place deep in the Florida bayou in the late 1920's. I have to warn you, though, that there's a really precious little fawn named Flag, and things do not turn out well for him. That sort of thing is too hard for me to watch.

Summery Finds

2011-05-17T13:01:00.004-04:00

I've noticed this habit that I've been slipping into. Whenever I find something new, I just can't wait to share it. But, then I bring it home, I stash it away, and I think I'll have some better time to share. As a result, I've been horrible at keeping this thing updated. I'm going to do my darnedest to share more this summer. I know I keep whining about/blaming the weather, but a high of 52 degrees and rain? Bleh.

I've noticed that quite a few blog friends have removed me, and I really can't blame them.

Anyways, here are some things I've recently acquired or found over the winter that I've been waiting to bring out for the warm weather, which seems to be taking its time to come around.

The 70's dress happens to be the only one I own at the moment, and I think it's pretty much perfect. The sailor top is from about the 1930's and I think it's meant for a little boy. I won it along with the gigantic old tote in an auction lot.

I need help identifying these sunglasses. I initially thought they were 40's, but they are giant on my face. I do have a tiny head (seriously), so it's hard to tell. Thoughts?

Great Grandma Rena

2011-05-12T06:05:00.000-04:00

It's rare that I ever get to see really old family photos. Rather, I'm usually passed down poorly scanned, resized, resized again, then printed family photos that look like junk. The story goes that my Great Aunt has all of the originals stashed away and doesn't much like sharing them.

Some pictures of my Great Grandma Rena have surfaced from about 1910-1920, and they are just too gorgeous! The very last one is her Glee Club photo. Seriously, way too sweet.

Birthday Party

2011-05-11T11:47:00.003-04:00

So, I had the most wonderful birthday party. It might even be the best I've ever had. Although, my 12th birthday at Pizzarama was pretty impecable, this one also ended with acquiring cheap toys and candy from arcade game tickets. I thought I'd be really clever and let people use disposable cameras but as it turns out they hardly work without flash, so this is all I have to show for it.

(Actually, my flickr is a mix of my birthday party and a Mad Men cocktail party.)

To top it off, I received my much anticipated (and begged for) performance by Adam and Lily:

Untitled from Tess Holley on Vimeo.

Civil War Gentlemen

2011-05-10T11:15:00.005-04:00

I've been admiring Civil War photography for a few days now. It's hard not to romanticize a war that yielded such beautiful photographs, handsome men, and charming camps. Come to think of it, the Library of Congress is a dangerous thing, because I could sit for days on end wistfully peering into the past.

There are a handful of things from the mid to late 1800's that I find dreamy, but men's fashion has got to be at the very tip top of that list. Actually, I would dare say it's currently my favorite era for men's hair and clothing.

Gift Horse

2011-05-05T17:34:00.006-04:00

Some of the wonderful presents that I received on my birthday...

A cast iron waffle maker.
The Foxfire 40th Anniversary Book.
Old medicine whiskey bottle. (Okay, so I bought this one for myself.)
Tiny old chocolate-coated pills medicine bottle.

The tiny bottle is especially precious to me because it was from the aforementioned Larry. When he found out that it was my birthday, and that I liked bottles, he shuffled away into his house to retrieve this for me.

Yes, oh yes, it just gets better. Sam surprised me with tickets to the Newport Folk Festival where many of my favorite artists are playing. I'm most looking forward to Carolina Chocolate Drops, Mountain Man, Pokey LaFarge, and Secret Sisters. I will share some videos later on!

How I Spent My Birthday

2011-05-02T09:17:00.008-04:00

Sam surprised me by taking me to the Berkshires for my birthday, which I'm pretty sure is the best place on Earth. It rained and rained almost the entire time we were there, but we still had our adventures!

I played in an ice cold river.
I found and dug in my first bottle dump.
I explored the Hoosac Tunnel.
And, oh yes, I spent the day rummaging the property of a sweet little gentleman named Larry Packard.

Larry has been living in this house his entire life. His barns are full of things that have been sitting there for 100 years. He'll go on and on about Stanley Steamer vehicles to his heart's content. Apparently the property used to be a lumber mill, hence the old machinery and gears that initially caught my eye.

All in all, it was a wonderful day and my heart aches a little bit every time I have to leave the magic of Western Massachusetts.

Easter!

2011-04-24T16:00:00.003-04:00

Given recent weather, Easter could not have been any better. It turned out to be sunny and warm for most of the day! We spent the day watching Fargo, hiding candy-filled eggs for each other, making our own chocolate rabbits, and had (vegan + gluten-free) eggs benedict for brunch.

I wore the previously thrifted slips and J. Crew cardigan. It's unusual for me to wear such light and feminine colors these days, so I felt rather festive.

The first chocolate rabbit turned out to be a bit of a defective character. Whenever you buy chocolate rabbits at the store, they come in a nice cellophane-window cardboard box with a scene like rolling hills and flowers. This rabbit has a sordid past and war stories about nearly being eaten; head first, naturally.

Easter Eve

2011-04-23T16:37:00.003-04:00

I had completely forgotten to take pictures of the sweetest care package I received from Anabela and Caroline, containing a Dream Cats calendar and little kitty hot pads. It really takes me back when I realize that other people are thinking of me.

Here are some peeks at my favorite patches in the quilt that's currently on our bed. Here on the ocean, it's been cold and rainy and the nights are still chilly. As much as I love my quilts, I'm really looking forward to getting them off the bed.

I went to an auction house last night and bought the dumpiest little folk art pup, and a ton of old slips. The slips are all too large for me and being sent off to Anja soon! I know they'll find their way to good homes.

So, I picked up some slips in my size at the thrift store today. I've been in desperate need of some slips for years. I'm painfully frugal when it comes to clothing, so I have a hard time investing in clothes that can't be worn alone.

I'm planning dishes full of sugar and bunnies to bring my own sunshine to Easter! I refuse to let this incessant rain ruin one of my favorite holidays.

April Baby

2011-04-18T12:51:00.002-04:00

Well, hello!

Yes, I'm alive. I'm not entirely sure what to say. My reasons for weaving in and out of internet existence are pretty much exactly what you'd expect them to be. I'm trying to find a balance between staying connected and making sure that what I'm connected to really benefits me. I've been reprioritizing interests, people, and time spent accordingly.

Also, I'm pretty frustrated with my camera, myself, and Chrome for not fixing its bug that desaturates images.

In the spirit of Spring, as cold and rainy as it's been, and my upcoming birthday, I figured I owed you a sign of life! Also, in case you missed it, after eating 3/4 of a banana cream pie I decided to make a blog entirely dedicated to my cat. I can't take it back now.

Here are some lovelies I picked up over the weekend: White Star Line (Titanic) bag, Betsy Ross Bread and Cakes ruler, lots of old clothespins, Columbia family scale, old black hand mirror, and... some wonderful French wildflower canisters.

And here's the (vegan/gluten-free) banana cream pie that sent me into a cat blog-making delirium.

I don't know about you guys, but Spring has been slow-coming out here on the ocean. Maybe Spring doesn't realize it, but I need it to get out of the way because Summer and I have big plans.

Wanderlust

2011-02-16T06:10:00.009-05:00

Actually, if I was inhabiting these beauties, I wouldn't mind if I just stayed put. I think I am simply caravanlusting at the moment. Lately I've seen a lot of renovated Airstreams and the like, decorated in florals, polka dots, and pennant banners. Me personally, I just want a wooden box on wheels that I can fill up like a cozy attic, with dusty and dingy things strewn about. In fact, I'm so enamored with this idea, that I think my life will never really be complete without it.

Merry Kittenmas and a Happy New Year

2011-01-01T08:43:00.004-05:00

I know it's a week late, but here's our ridiculous tree, covered in about 50 or so victorian die cuts. I am now a pro at glitter glue. I hope you all had the most wonderful holiday. I was given a 1930's Girl Scout belt, a 1940's stand mixer, and a few other magical things I'll share with you.

Holiday Sale

2010-12-06T05:38:00.002-05:00

10% off with the coupon code DEMUREHOLIDAY at checkout! Sale ends at NOON on Wednesday, December 8th and shop will be on holiday after that point until December 20th. So, order now. :).

Demure Folk Shop

The Sweaters Dreams Are Made Of

2010-11-30T04:30:00.004-05:00

What I'd really love this winter are some perfect sweaters. I've been longingly dreaming of 1920's sweaters, simple fit with sweet details adorning them. Something with a nice knit and a little rolled collar or a floppy sailor collar to top it off! Alas, the originals are nearly impossible to find and cost a pretty penny that'd make me never want to look at it sideways for fear of damaging it. The 1970's brought about some pretty charming inspired cardigans, but I have the darnedest time finding them in my size. Don't even get me started on the lace-collared 1980's sweaters and how they awkwardly fit my long torso. Sigh. The hunt continues!

Puss and Her Family

2010-11-27T05:14:00.004-05:00

Oh boy oh boy oh boy! Sometimes I can't fathom what magical and perfect-in-every-way things exist that I haven't discovered.

Like victorian era kitten paper dolls called Puss and Her Family. It looks as though it was a supplement to the May 29, 1898 issue of Baltimore American, a newspaper that began in 1883. My little irregular heart can't handle it!

(The 2008 Paper Doll Convention Archive)

Giving Thanks Pt. 2

2010-11-27T04:26:00.002-05:00

I know it's two days after Thanksgiving, but 1. You should always be thankful and 2. You know you're having a Thanksgiving Hangover when the words "gigapod" and "chocolamint" come out of your mouth and you're not even trying to be funny. It was best I didn't try to write anything. Seriously, way too much pumpkin pie in this belly.

I don't care what anybody says. Veganism is easy, but a gluten-free diet is the biggest pain in my rump.

Truthfully, I found it hard to be thankful. It's been a very trying year for me. Many people have really let me down and if I believed in luck, I'd say I currently have the bad variety. But then the phrase "Things could be worse" comes to mind. I'm thankful that I'm alive and have survived each and every day. It doesn't hurt that I have the softest, funniest, and sweetest kitty, who travelled 1,000 miles with us and has endured every crazy living situation for the past 5 years. It also doesn't hurt that, despite everything, there is a bearded boy who cares for me and tries his best to show me.

Anyways, here's to being alive.

(Trust me, she loves it.)

Giving Thanks Pt. 1

2010-11-25T05:02:00.008-05:00

The sun is just barely peeking out, so I just wanted to share some lovely images to get the day started. I'm sure I'll have more to share when my belly is bursting and the kitchen looks a mess. I hope you're all doing magnificently and are surrounded by loved ones.

Merry Hallowe'en

2010-10-31T14:10:00.004-04:00

Hello, guys and ghouls!

I have to confess, I'm least festive of all. I'm not dressing up this year. I'm not passing out candy. I might not even leave the house today. What's more is I went to a party last night and had to leave early because of my grandmotherly sleep cycle. I'm just sitting here, resting from my morning at the flea market, eating Mary Janes and Chick-o-Sticks.

I was really pleased to find affordably priced 1920's and 1930's replica decorations. I rarely reuse decorations, but these are sticking around for some time to come!

Well, I'm going to gut this romantic-looking pumpkin and watch scary movies. Enjoy your evening!

It's Fall, Ya'll!

2010-10-28T05:43:00.003-04:00

Gosh, I don't even know where the time has gone. Every single weekend this October has been packed with a mini road trip, things to do, people to see, dogs to pet. I wouldn't even know where to begin, so I'll just share some snapshots.

Caroline visited for a magical whirlwind consisting of estate sales, New Hampshire, Antique Alley, flea markets, old quilts, fluffy dogs, fireplaces, and pumpkin beverages to boot!

I'd love to share a bit more, but haven't got the time. I can tell you that I spent the better part of an hour doing a side-by-side comparison at the pumpkin patch and agonizing over which seemed the most "romantic" looking. Sometimes I think my low blood sugar levels get the better of me!

A Touch of Lace

2010-10-25T17:48:00.003-04:00

I'm noticing a trend in the recent ModCloth additions. It's really strumming my heartstrings!

One Man's Trash

2010-10-08T14:17:00.004-04:00

Sometimes I can't believe the things people will trash. These are some lovely things we acquired today from the curb and such!

I hope you're all having a beautiful day. The bout of rain has finally passed through New England and it's looking to be a wonderful fall weekend.

Dream Home

2010-10-01T11:39:00.004-04:00

During our trip to the Berkshires in August I happened across what would be such a heartbreaker of a house. It was a magnificent farmhouse perched on a hill with a "FOR SALE" sign in the yard. By the way the yard was overgrown and the barns were collapsing, I could tell it hadn't been inhabited in decades.

When I walked inside I immediately noticed the crumbling 1920's-30's linoleum in the enclosed porch and felt a little piece of me die.

I spent the next hour walking around the airy rooms with layers of wallpaper peeling back, rummaging in the barn rafters, and dodging animal poop and scary spiders.

Alas, all four buildings on this property will be torn down because they sit on 30 acres zoned for industrial use at $2 million.

Boardwalk Empire

2010-10-01T09:53:00.004-04:00

I don't keep up on the latest movies and television shows much these days. When Sam said to me "Do you want to watch a show about Atlantic City during the 1920's?" I believe my exact response was "Uh, YES!?". I knew immediately it'd become one of my favorites, up there with Carnivale. I'm certain I'm the last to talk about this new show, but I still wanted to share some of my favorite scenes of lovely sweaters, hats, hair, and interiors.

2010-09-14T18:37:00.003-04:00

My beautiful and wonderful friend Caroline finally came to visit from Montreal for the weekend. You may know her as semiplume on flickr. We clicked instantly and I was so so saddened to see her go. Not to mention, she was my little good luck charm + kitten scout at Brimfield Antique Show.

Two days of Brimfield and one day at the local flea market with Caroline and our totally awesome local friends Esther and Dan, and their little baby Liam. Honestly, I am completely antiqued out. Almost.

I just wanted to share these moments of with you before burying myself under quilts and wishing to sleep forever on this gloomy, chilly afternoon.

Remember Me?

2010-09-09T17:33:00.006-04:00

My oh my, the time does fly. Has it really been over three months? It seems that my life somersaulted from a predictable and comforting lull into a full blown circus show with barely any time to breath. The break from constant internet perusing has been good, but I'm ready to dip my toes back into the water.

A couple of weekends back, we took a trip to the Berkshires and Western Massachusetts for Sam's birthday. I fell in love and there was so little time to even make a dent in the plans we'd made up in our heads.

After arriving in Northampton we settled next to the river for a picnic lunch until the sun set on us. First thing in the morning we headed to a quaint little roadside cafe in a teeny town for breakfast where I had huevos rancheros and banana bread, all completely vegan and gluten-free. The morning was followed with a drive to the top of Mount Greylock — the highest point in Massachusetts, and ended with a train ride.

Western Massachusetts seems to be a place of magic because I stumbled upon the most amazing barn sale in the middle of no where, where I merrily skipped away with a box full of goodies for just 6 bucks, and the house of my dreams. I am not kidding. This house nearly made me cry when I stepped foot inside. Just thinking of it being demolished gives me internal fits of "life isn't fair!"

But, sharing the house with you will come later! Tomorrow I am off to experience Brimfield. Wish me luck and send all of your clovers and horseshoes my way.

Monday

2010-05-31T07:48:00.001-04:00

I just wanted to let you all know that some personal things have come up in my life and I will not be around for the most part. I hope to see you all in a while.

Swing Shift

2010-05-25T14:54:00.002-04:00

Before I pass out from this May heat wave that's hit the East Coast, I thought I'd share some captures from another movie I've recently found and loved. I hope you don't mind how often I bombard you with these! It's about women who went to work during WWII, and it's full of just enough kissing and dancing that it leaves you feeling pretty darn good.

Sleepy Sunday

2010-05-24T17:08:00.003-04:00

As well as it ended, yesterday did not get off to a good start. I fell victim to the temptation of dark chocolate Saturday evening, then barely slept a wink because I'm so sensitive to caffeine. Of course I had to be up before the crack of dawn to make it to the flea market. To make matters worse, I was truly a mess.

I came home with a sweet gingham dress for the shop, this little portrait of an Edwardian girl with Heidi braids, and this really really darling bluebird hairbrush.

Like most of you, we watched the lengthy series finale of LOST last night. It's hard to believe Sam (my fiance) and I started watching LOST when we were living in our very first apartment, and so much younger! We had our good friend over and made the best vegan and gluten-free lasagna ever.

Today I've been fighting this lingering headache that refuses to leave me alone. So I made Sam some vegan peanut butter oatmeal muffins. In exchange he brought home these 40's shoes from eBay that I've been waiting for. I'm still deciding whether they fit in a way that I can mosey around in them for hours.

Wildflower

2010-05-20T12:16:00.007-04:00

Where has the week gone to?

Yesterday was cold and rainy, so I did some overdue mending, gave OxiClean a whirl, and watched movies under quilts.

I snatched up these 30's farm dresses on eBay for pretty darn cheap, because they were poorly labeled and categorized. They arrived in pretty sad condition so I went out and finally bought some OxiClean. I was thrilled when it lifted a blood stain on the yellow beauty. However, I'm now 99.99% sure that it ate three massive holes in my 1920's gym suit that I decided to freshen up as well. But it also did wonders on this gorgeous 40's apron. I'm so torn, no pun intended.

I have a few movies to share, but first is this obscure gem called Wildflower. It was made for TV, so it's certainly nothing fancy. To me, it's a Depression Era version of Nell. What I love most is that Reese Witherspoon's character is such a tomboy. Wearing nothing but suspenders, overalls, and even the one time she puts on a dress it's a sack-like jumper. Also, there's a cat-shaped picnic lunch! Do you hear that? That's the sound of my heart rejoicing.

Simple Folk

2010-05-16T13:47:00.003-04:00

Today was the first day going back to the flea market after my trip to Michigan and the weather could not be more perfect. It was sunny, not the tiniest bit of wind, warm enough to walk around for hours but not warm enough to break a sweat.

I planned on wearing a dress — I even had one picked out — but honestly with all of the kneeling and digging and speed walking that I do, it just wasn't practical. Today I meant serious business. Maybe a little too serious because I pulled a leg muscle!

So, sorry for the boring outfit! It's simple but, you know, I'm a simple gal most days. We took these behind an abandoned property on the way.

Oh, and I can't wait to share the boudoir chair that I snatched up today for 10 bucks! It is a little torn and pretty darn dingy, but what amazing things aren't?

(Sam is sneaky.)

(Aha! The sneaky becomes the sneaked upon.)

50's eyelet boatneck blouse: flea market

50's granny shorts: flea market

tights: Target

vintage boots: thrift store

tweed newsboy cap: eBay Christmas gift

vintage plaid: thrift store

Coming Home to Kitties

2010-05-13T16:05:00.004-04:00

As much as I'd sort of planned to, I didn't do a lot of antiquing in Michigan and I didn't buy a single thing. I suppose I was just feeling a bit preoccupied.

It's pretty clear to me now that I'm head over heels for old kitty art. Which reminded me that the last time I was in Michigan I picked up these super cheap victorian trade cards. Ever since then I've been scouring for more adorned with kittens, but they're so hard to come by.

My fluffy sweetpea has been loyally at my side all day and night. I brought out one of the quilts I'd found for dirt cheap at the flea market and she's already breaking it in, burrowing in and kneading it. I swear, she's so peculiar with old linens that I wonder if the wealth of past smells drives her a little nutty.

Wild Hearts Can't Be Broken

2010-05-12T15:03:00.003-04:00

I can't help but feel a little lazy when I upload film captures, but I really needed to share this one before it was pushed too far into the back of my mind. It's based on the life of Sonora Webster Carver during the Great Depression. I had a vague childhood memory of seeing it, but wasn't sure if it was real. Imagine my delight when I stumbled across it. It's about as good as you might expect from a 1991 Disney film, but boy oh boy is it ever filled with eye candy.

(Also, in case you missed it, there were some kitty photos on flickr, because apparently I can't go more than a week without mentioning kitties.)

My Mother

2010-05-08T21:02:00.003-04:00

What really defines a person and makes them who they are? To me, it's the little things that stay mostly unchanged throughout your life. It's the quirks that you might try your darnedest to change or that you've never even noticed about yourself. It seems with every year I see more and more of what I recognize as my mother in myself.

Always up before the sun, never without a tissue to wipe our runny noses, always prepared for the worst, never able to go without several breakfasts, often having conversations with cats, always weepy during movies, and with a timeless attraction to bearded gentlemen.

More importantly, my mother isn't only to credit for my certain quirks. She is proof that the way to raise a respectful and trustworthy person is to simply respect and trust a person. Happy Mother's Day, Mom.

Michigan Life

2010-05-08T07:58:00.004-04:00

As I'm sitting here preparing for the day, it is relentlessly raining, which would be nice except for the fact that it's about 30 degrees with a dusting of snow on the ground. Most of my plans that I've been dreaming of have been ruined. No morel mushroom hunting, no flea market, no rural exploration.

I took a few pictures during the road trip — and what is looking to be the only nice day I'll have while I'm visiting — of Michigan life or in some cases what once was Michigan life. As much as I swear I'll never move back, this place definitely has a bittersweet charm.

Greetings from Michigan

2010-05-05T19:30:00.006-04:00

I hope you're all well and enjoying warm weather, because we're certainly not here. Although, there was some thrilling lightning and thunder last night, which I've really missed since moving to the East Coast. We just don't get those heart-stopping storms, if any.

I have to get to bed early because my best friend and I are taking a road trip tomorrow. Just popping in to say I made it to Michigan in one piece! Actually, flying alone for the first time was horrible! They changed my flight last minute to 2 hours early, so imagine me running down the escalators, barely dragging luggage behind my gangly limbs.

My mom and I drove out the peninsula this morning to a rustic little barn filled to the brim with antiques. The entire attic was draped with dresses, linens, and laces. I was especially in love with this old wooden trunk lined with barkcloth but there's that whole issue of living 1,000 miles away. Harumph.

Running Around Like a Chicken

2010-05-03T06:43:00.005-04:00

I always hated the rest of that phrase, so I'll leave it at that! Today is one of those days where there aren't enough hours. I'm leaving to visit home in Michigan early tomorrow morning, and I'm the sort of person who needs to make sure that every single duck is in a row the night before. I'm going to do my very best to not entirely disappear during my little trip, and maybe even post once or twice.

I don't have the focus or time to write about anything other than my Sunday morning at the flea market. Oh, yesterday was just bountiful in sunshine and a comfortable 80 degrees here in Massachusetts, so the flea market was buzzin'!

On the way we stopped at this little abandoned house that always catches my eye. Even I know when to keep out. The roof and floor had both caved in.

50's plaid pocket jumper - flea market

50's eyelet blouse - flea market

belt - thrift store

vintage woven oxfords - thrift store

Rambling Rose

2010-05-01T18:10:00.003-04:00

I mentioned earlier my adoration for 80's and 90's film of this specific kind. Period pieces these days usually just don't feel right to me. They're usually too dramatic and showy for me. I really prefer the more understated, lower-budget, sweet films about people and their stories.

Today I watched one that's been on my mind for so long now. I had a hard time even finding it to watch. I have to say, I think it's one of the prettiest I've ever seen! I just liked it a whole lot, so I hope you don't mind me sharing a bunch of captures from it.

April Baby

2010-04-29T10:49:00.006-04:00

As most of you know, yesterday was my birthday. In contrast to last year being 90 degrees on my birthday, yesterday was a sadly cold and wet day with snow showers in the region!

Sam gave me a stack of 1940's snapshots of people with animals. Oh, he knows my weaknesses all too well. He then took me up to Antique Alley in New Hampshire for the day. I have been falling in love with New Hampshire over the past year, with its lush mountains and weathered farmhouses barely still standing.

I wasn't feeling spendy, so I came home only with this little 1800's kitten and roses chromolithograph.

I wore this dress that I mended up last week. I found it at the thrift store, full of holes in the skirt, but I just couldn't go home without it!

1930's-40's knit dress - thrift store

big ol' knitting bag - flea market

tights - Target

vintage oxfords - thrift store

We peeked around the windows of this big old abandoned farmhouse and adjacent antique barn on route 4. All of the doors were tightly locked, so I could only look in longingly.

Finally, after returning home damp, cold, and tired, we cuddled up to watch The Color Purple, because truth be told I have a serious adoration for 80's and 90's film depicting the rural past.

Serendipitous

2010-04-26T15:34:00.004-04:00

Yesterday was my shared "double birthday" party with my pal Elise, whose birthday is two days after mine. The sky decided to be kind and not rain on us, so we had a gorgeous day at the boardwalk, playing unfair games and taking photobooth snapshots.

I made these crazy little (vegan) lemon raspberry cupcakes, topped with Scotties of course! I think I did pretty well, considering it was my first time making cupcakes or frosting from scratch.

I have a real problem with "It's only one dollar!" at the flea market. I can't turn down anything that tugs at my heartstrings in the slightest if it's only a dollar. Even if it is covered in bug eggs, like this little straw-stuffed kitty was! I believe I said to the man "She looks like no one else would buy her!" And as if I need yet another knitting bag?

I think that this little silky hanging thing is precious, but I'm really not sure what it even is. Maybe a lingerie holder?

I had the most serendipitous moment yesterday at the flea, involving this dress, that started about a year ago and with me practically in tears. Perhaps I'll write about that later, but I had to give you a peek at my best find!

So Long, Winter Slump

2010-04-24T13:40:00.017-04:00

Between the months of December and April, I swear every little vintage find feels like I've struck gold. With the outdoor flea markets closed, I am left with a couple of affordable antique shops and rather fruitless thrift stores.

A couple of months ago, deprived of any decent finds, I had a wonderful Saturday. I stashed the contents away in a baggy and am just now taking them out to share. I had the urge to keep them neatly tucked in a bag because they were bizarrely matchy-matchy. I must have subconsciously been in a red, brown and ivory mood.

A flowery pintuck dress, a lacy teddy, old filet lace curtains, oxford loafers, two handbags (the faux tortoiseshell one is the best!), little old needlepoint wallet, and a handmade embroidered kitty.

The kitty felt just too precious to even share with anybody. She must be my favorite thing that I own right now. I suspect she was made in the 1930's. Her little frown is just the best best best.

Hello!

2010-04-23T17:00:00.001-04:00

I've been planning — actually, modestly hoarding and stashing away — for finally having my own blog. Honestly, it's taken me this long out of sheer intimidation. There are already so many wonderful ramblings to sift through, so why bother? Well, because I figure we're all dreaming up this romantic version of life, full of lovely places, old things, and their stories. Am I making a lick of sense? If nothing else, this just helps me to continue dreaming up that life.

I decided to set a deadline for my first entry: my birthday. This way I can share it with you all! I admit, I'm a bit of a birthday monster, but everyone should be. Anyway, April is the month for newness, unearthing, and most importantly the reopening of my favorite flea market in the world.

I wasn't sure whether to just peek my head out and say "hello" or start off with something spectacular, so I figured an in-between-y would do it. Here are some sweet little snapshots that I uncovered at the flea market opening, that I just had to share.

I hope you continue reading and enjoy me like I enjoy you.