~StoryBook*Charm~

new shop name!

2011-10-19T16:23:00.001-07:00

inspired from an old steiff bear i thrifted last season.

he's kind of became my mascot of sorts.

i am so happy with our new name. and thrilled for the beautiful autumn'ness in the air. feeling truly inspired. this season brings out the best in me.

i am working on a shop update real soon.

hope you and yours are doing well. see you soon.

~m

abandoned blog.

2011-10-03T12:47:00.000-07:00

it is true. and i am sorry.

i haven't the time lately, but do hope to become more focused and begin blogging again.

thanks for checking back though. kisses!

-m

New old stuff.

2010-12-17T12:41:00.001-08:00

for your viewing pleasure.

i have updated my shop once more, this week.

i still have a long way to go.. but i'm making progress. thriting has been so fun for me. i've been pretty happy lately. i take advantage of the sun, and the light it brings for photographing everything. it has been so very dark lately which i have actually fully enjoyed until it comes time for listing new treasures for my etsy shop.

i hope your all enjoying this holiday season. i hope ya'll have been good and santa brings you everything you wish for.

2010 has been an interesting year for us. ups and downs... highs and lows. but overall it has been very good to me and my family. a lot of changes, but that's life i suppose.

these are the last few things i will have listed before christmas. {AND THIS IS JUST A SAMPLE} 21 new listings in all!
i will be one busy gal in 2011, i have some great things.. most of which need dust bunnies blew off and a bit of tlc. i'm looking forward to bringing you many more special things that'll make you happy. hehe.

we're headed to magic kingdom this christmas. to the happiest place on earth.

.. can't wait!

merry christmas readers. xo

December 10.

2010-12-10T14:25:00.000-08:00

it's been quite rainy here in my little town.

cozy and quiet. it makes me happy. been wanting to post new listings this week, but the weather disagrees and says i should wait. sigh.

i've had such goodluck at the goodwill this week and last!

in other news: here is a little christmas cheer... from our cottage to yours.

{{have a lovely weekend}}

mine will be filled with toasty fires.. puppy cuddling and maybe a christmas shopping excursion to my favorite city. if i'm lucky!

hope all is well with you and yours. see you soon....

December 2.

2010-12-02T13:17:00.001-08:00

been such a ghost town with le'blog. these last few months..

.. i've dusted the dust-bunnies.
cleaned up things a bit.. i've rearranged things a little too. phew!

..it also may seem a little quieter {deleted the playlist-of-music}. i like it. hope you do too.

happy thursday friends.

thank you for the warm welcome back in my shop.. i shall be busy packing orders for awhile!

xo

December 1.

2010-12-01T19:13:00.000-08:00

Happy December ole' blog.

A little shop update, LONG over due.

I'm feeling much more comfortable in our new town. Getting to know the area pretty well. Finding all the thrift stores, it's been fun. I have enough sweet and charming finds to keep me pretty busy for sometime. I hope you'll pop in from time to time. I will do my best to keep up my blog, with shop updates and such.

I have been a true phantom!

So here are a few of my favorite things I have listed this evening, all are listed here. I hope you'll have a look.
Have fun!
and oh,
Happy late Thanksgiving... xo

Feels good to be back!

July 28.

2010-07-28T10:58:00.001-07:00

Enclosed are some pictures of our dollhouse.

Come take a walk with me? Won't you?

We are truly loving our time here.
Feels good to be home, good to be back.

Home sweet home.

2010-07-13T23:35:00.000-07:00

Well Hi!

We're slowly getting back in the groove of things around here. Settling nicely into our new little home. I plan to have lots of pictures of it posted real soon. It's adorable and have had one person compliment by saying it looks just like a dollhouse ;)

LOVE the sound of that. and am quite humbled by such a gesture!

Everything is so different here. Relocating is an adjustment in itself. Finding new Dr's and Dentists and Veterinarians and where to do I get a haircut? Ha!

Well.... we have opened Le'Shoppe. It's been sometime since I've had an update. I am looking forward to listing lots of pretty things. I have found a few really nice thrift stores, goodwill and an antique market, close by =D

Thanks for stopping by! I'll be back soon. Enjoy the rest of your week!

{{hugs}}

I'm still here.

2010-06-17T16:39:00.000-07:00

I am, I really am!

The packing is moving right along.
As well as planned,
though our moving day is still a couple weeks away. I miss it here, all of you. I really am missing being able to photograph and add all my new finds in the shoppe!
I am getting ready to pack everything listed in my shoppe very soon. I am leaving my shoppe opened until "Tuesday, June 29th." And it will reopen "Tuesday, July 13th."
I have so, so many neat treasures waiting to debut in the shoppe. I'm very excited to get back to work and put myself back into it, 100%!!!

Until then.
I'm pretty happy today.
Thank you for all the love and support and extremely sweet emails!

Here is a card especially for you:

Some time away.

2010-05-03T17:24:00.000-07:00

Hello sweet readers.

I know, I know ...
I haven't been around much. It's been so dull here. I'm sorry.

We just have a lot of things going on right now.
Some things good.
Some things not so good.

Therefore, I must take a little break from le' blog.
Our store will continue to stay opened for business, and new treasures will be added periodically. We, and the family will be in the process of moving {relocating} quite soon. So I must keep my full attention on that and all of the details that go along with it.

Exciting and scary to say the least!

I will keep you posted. And - pop in from time to time.

As in a previous post, I do hope you don't abandoned me. I would miss you terribly! I'll be back before you know it, just two shakes of a lamb's tail!

I promise.

{{hugs n kisses}}

{pic via flickr}

~michelle

A Tuckered Pupper.

2010-04-25T19:57:00.001-07:00

Day at the park.

Complete with picnicking and playing!

Sandwiches + Cookies + Brownies + Iced Tea = everything one needs.

Such a good girl! So brave.

::kisses nose. kisses paws::

Four Friday Favorites.

2010-04-23T08:46:00.000-07:00

Oh Etsy!

You are wonderful!

You make me crazy; shopping ... must.have.self.discipline.
But, it's so hard because I want to buy EVERYTHING!
Whether it's the many talented peeps that hand make things

OR

the amazing etsy sellers that have that keen eye for finding such beautiful treasures.
sigh.

Here are a few of my favorite things today.
::swoon::

Handmade Dog Sweater.

Vintage German Glove Mold.

Sweet Vintage Buckled Maryjanes.

Hand-knit Scarflette.

Have a beautiful spring weekend!
I know, for sure, that I will. Lots of sunshine in the forecast, right along with warm winds =)

The perfect weekend to get-away!

My Off Days.

2010-04-21T14:50:00.000-07:00

I promise I'm still here!

ッ

These two weeks of "no work" aka, vacation ... has been filled with lots of hanging around in jammies, doing a lot of NOTHING and lying around with this little doll:

Where's Eloise? When you find her you can tell her she is one spoiled bully, eh?

I'm so thankful I have been having these days with just her and I.
So very important I think!

I get to feeling a little guilty, as I somewhat ignore, le ' blog. Ya know?
Can't quite grasp why... I guess because, well ... I've been missing it here.

It's been raining cats and dogs here these last few days, thus setting back my mini-update for the store ... I'm praying for sun in the up coming days though, we'll see how that goes?

Hope all is well with you and yours!

Please don't abandon me.

I would miss you terribly.

see you soon {{hugs}}

Dresses For Spring.

2010-04-15T20:06:00.001-07:00

hello friends!

I'm SO happy today!
I'm officially on vacation. No work for two weeks!! Whoo-hoo!
Something I like to call a stay cation.
Well ... maybe not "no work". I will be tending the store and working on a couple updates soon. But I tend not to think of my store as, work. Technically it is "work", but I enjoy it so, so much ... I always have a hard time looking at it that way =)
We have a couple weekend excursions planned, nothing big. We don't want to venture off too far for too long with the baby ;)

BTW- Baby is doing really well, we decided to name her Eloise. We liked the idea of having a few nicknames and it just really suits her and her personality. Every so often we call her Ella, Elle, or Lulu. It's a fun name.
Potty-training is going so well. She's just so darn smart and is making it so easy for me. I'm truly spoiled.
We just love her so much!
We've bonded so well with her.

Sun-Dress~Anthro {last year}
Cardigan~JCrew
Pearl Necklace~Vintage {thrifted}
Flats~Ecco

Happy Friday.

{{hugs}}

Give/Gift Away.

2010-04-07T11:53:00.000-07:00

~COMMENTS ARE NOW CLOSED.
RNG HAS DONE IT'S MAGIC AND CHOSEN LUCKY NUMBER "6", JANERA @ "MY GARDEN HAT".
CONGRATULATIONS!!
PLEASE EMAIL ME, YOUR MAILING ADDRESS AND THIS BOOK WILL BE ON IT'S WAY TO YOU.
THANKS TO EVERYONE FOR COMMENTING. AND VISITING MY SILLY LITTLE
BLOG!~

Terribly sorry!
So busy.
No blogging!

Life has got the best of me lately.
My world has been a little upside down, all for the best though - but having a new puppy in the house, kind of puts my routine out of whack. I am trying to get back into the groove of things ... what with shopping for the store ... keeping up with emails ... and tending the nest ... potty'ing a certain lil someone 100 times a day!
You know how it is?
I'm hoping things will get back to normal very soon.
In the meantime ... I would like to show my appreciation to my readers and customers, alike. For that I am having a little giveaway.

I myself, have this same book and really enjoy it.
Therefore, I am giving one away!
SO please, please, please just leave me comment below. Tell your friends too!!

Lurkers welcome ;)
C'mon don't be shy!
International readers welcome to comment as well!

I know my favorite part of having a blog is the incredible and sweet friends I have made along the way. Let me know what you favor most about blogging, the good OR the bad :)
OR
just say "hello"!

I will let the random number generator do it's magic - and choose a number next Wednesday April the 14th @ 12:00pm PST. Until then ... good luck and see you soon!

{{hugs}}
~michelle

Daffodils and Chocolate Eggs To You!

2010-04-03T16:47:00.000-07:00

Hope it's a lovely day sweet friends!

A Video Made With Love

2010-04-01T21:48:00.000-07:00

Hello.
The new puppy and I are coming along quite well. Fantastic actually! She's so darn smart!
Almost seems as if the breeder trained her in ways. She surprises me everyday.

Here is a little vid I made today.

With the sun shining nicely, I took the chance. I wanted to share all of that cuteness with everyone.

Just look at that face!! ::MWAH::

and ... she's SO very easy to sleep with too.
Just like sleeping with a warm, plush, plump sausage!
sigh. yes. I'm in puppy heaven.

Puppy Love.

2010-03-30T07:43:00.000-07:00

Hi!

Sorry,
I have been a little phantom-blogger this week. but. I promise it is all in good reason. You could say. well. I've been a little preoccupied.
just a smidgen.

You see there is a new baby in the house. She is just the sweetest living-thing in the world. Her skin soft like black velvet ... those eyes ... so expressive. Let me say, I'm in love.

Yes, we are the proud parents of a little.12 week old.french bulldog.

I can't decide between two names. and. I'm for certain that she cannot be without a name for more than a week. Our choices are Miette or Eloise? and. well. I'm torn.

So without further a do:

Here she sits with her sister. Twins I was told. Our puppers is on the right.

I'll see you soon.
I'm off to enjoy that puppy-smell before it disappears indefinitely!

What I'm Wearing Today.

2010-03-26T17:02:00.001-07:00

I'm so, so relieved it's Friday!
Aren't you?

It's a B.E.A.utiful day!
The sun is shining, my windows are wide opened and the fresh air feels great! I did a little thrift shopping today. I picked up a cool old black iron mail-box, some vintage children's flash cards, THREE very old Alice Books-hurrah! A 1915 fieldbook guide to trees. Let's see.... a vintage glass bead rosary. I am loving, collecting, finding and selling vintage religious artifacts. I've found myself quite drawn to them lately.
Also, found a couple of sets of old playing cards and clothes pins and ribbons.
Let me just say, it was a good day.
Not GREAT, but good.
ッ

For quite a few years I have been attached to vintage jean jackets. I know they are SO '90s aren't they? I don't know, I just like them. They coordinate with so many outfits and what can I say, they just so darn comfortable!

Jean Jacket~Vintage.Gap
Blouse~Target
Skirt~Anthropologie
Knee-Highs~Target
Boots~Anthropologie
Rhinestone Brooch~Thrifted.Vintage

I'm in for a relaxing.do.much.of.nothing.weekend. Preferably I'd rather have plans and be doing something!
But ... I guess my Mr. is working so maybe some spring cleaning will be in store!

Happy Friday StoryBook'ers!
::wink::

New Things/Old Things.

2010-03-25T15:35:00.000-07:00

Some new things listed in The Book ::wink.wink::

The baby scale is listed right now and the others will be soon.

Thanks for looking!

1. Italian Jesus Wall Hanging.

2. Tiny Old Classroom Pencil Sharpener.

3. Portuguese Framed House Blessing.

4. Set Of Three Old Wedding Photographs.

5. Awesome Antique Household/Baby Scale.

see you soon.

Mr. Fancy Pants

2010-03-24T22:29:00.001-07:00

" Not a Mouse a Stirring"
- William Shakerspeare

Yes, a mouse does reside here.

I can picture it now.
Mr. Mouse with his huge trousers and boots, smoking his pipe in his big red chair.

Such a sweet photograph recently sent to me. Isn't it wonderful?

Spring Has Sprung

2010-03-20T18:42:00.001-07:00

Hasn't she?

Just popping in to wish ya'll a very happy first day of spring!

I see new little sprouts here and there in my yard... new growth in my tiny garden makes me happy.

Made me smile.

Silly Sweet

2010-03-19T08:22:00.001-07:00

I adore Marc Johns.
His images silly. sweet. and simple.

Many make no sense at all, whilst others totally do.

And, that's what I love about them!

This one has to be my favorite!

It's Friday already? Goodness... where does the time go?

Happy Friday sweet readers!

Travel Around The World.

2010-03-16T12:30:00.001-07:00

Completely coincidental,
that my new listings for the store are travel related.
How funny.

1. Vintage World On A String.

2. Minty-Vintage Samsonite Small Suitcase.

3. Mustard Yellow Samsonite Carry-on. Nice.

4. Matching Mustard Yellow Train Case. Really Nice!

5. Vintage Fabric Pillow, made with an old bedspread and sheet.
A sweet place to rest your head during those.. hours and hours of flying.

All of these will be listed in the store next.
Happy Tuesday!

I Need A TearDrop.

2010-03-16T11:41:00.000-07:00

I really, really do!

I can picture it now... the cream in my coffee and me. Out on the open road. Let the roads lead the way. How fun would that be? No GPS, just the two of us and a old-fashioned paper map.
Few days on the coast.
Few days in the mountains and forests.
::admiring.sigh::

You can find this little charmer here. But please don't buy it because I'll be really, very jealous!
::wink::

My sweet-pea and me have been wanting one for sometime now.
We always gasp together when we see them on the highway. This one is handmade- sah-weet! But I think ideally we would love to buy one vintage. 1950's-60's.
Well....
I can add that one to my really-silly want, want, want list! It's a REALLY big list, ya know.
::smiles::

Hello Monday

2010-03-15T08:44:00.000-07:00

I had a nice weekend. too good to end. Flew by!

and I made a new blog banner/avatar and a matching one for etsy.
I took the photo myself and messed around with the stamping and such.
I think I like it.

Here's the new one for the store:

I hope you like them too.

I'm in for a LONG day today.
Lots of things longing to be checked off of my to-do-list.
One is I'll be fitted for contacts.. for my eyes. Which is a HUGE deal for me!
Since I've never had them.No more glasses? These aren't mine ::giggle:: I just thought they were cute.

Wish me luck.

ッ

Ewa i Walla

2010-03-13T11:07:00.000-08:00

dear ewa i walla,
you make the prettiest clothes on the planet.
Oh.. how much i wish i could afford some of your pretty dresses!

love always,
michelle

One can dream i suppose...

Wouldn't this be the perfect dress for picking berries in the woods?

;)

These maryjanes are amazing! I actually found these on ebay!
I had fun google-ing ewa i walla.
Such lovely images with their models and pieces.
Most of the dresses above can also be found on ebay. I think I'll save some money and pick one of them up. Someday.

BTW: I need one of these... a red-head-little-girl!

ewa i walla also has a childrens line.

Behind A Scene

2010-03-10T11:40:00.001-08:00

I'm feeling pretty good this afternoon.
I actually got my studio/warehouse/office all cleaned up!!
Phew... it was a lot of work. I love spring cleaning... when you can stand back and look and feel satisfied.
I do have a "system".
Treasures found get a good bath and then end up here:

This last Sunday at the Alameda Flea, I picked up that cool canvas military basket. I'd only wished I picked up two... this lady had a bunch of em and they were going so quickly! Amazed by the price, I could just kick myself now for not taking two :(
Oh well, that's how it goes.

It will be used as my so called, "holding tank". Treasures cleaned, are nestled in here until they are photographed. Where they then end up in le' garage... nestled individually each in their own tagged box. Awaiting their now homes ;)

As you can see... I have SO many things to list, as usual, what's new! ::LOL::

Now I must peel myself off this sofa and get busy!

Work this afternoon....

...see ya soon.

Old Things

2010-03-09T12:09:00.001-08:00

Greetings friends, finders and keepers!

Listed below are six new OLD things that will be listed in the store tonight.
I'm very excited about this particular bunch!
I get so lucky sometimes.
::wink::

1. Charming Old Glass Eggs. Set Of Four.

2. Old Apothecary Chemist Bottles. Set Of Three.

3. Glass Cloche with Old Silver Alphabet Plate.

4. Wooden Old Hanging Shadow Box.

5. Old Embroidery Hoops. Set Of Three.

Last, but certainly not least...

6. Very Old Wall Hanging Plaster Jesus Statue.
{{Made In Holland}}

Thanks for looking today!

Why Is A Raven...

2010-03-08T19:54:00.000-08:00

...like a writing desk?

A lot of Alice talk in internet-land!
Mixed reviews everywhere I look. So what were my thoughts? Considering I didn't really get my hopes up and I didn't set my standards high, even though I'd waited two years for it to debut.
I liked it! Really.

The first 25 minutes I was getting a little disappointed, and thinking to myself, " Come on Tim!!!"... then midway, I began to get happy! I know many fans of this wonderful written story are in fact, disappointed. But I mean it's Tim Burton! C'mon! You can't forget about that. I think his imagination and creativity was very, very cool!! and... SO much better than Willy-Wonka!

A mini interview of Tim Burton I came across this evening included this question about Mia.
I really liked his answer and can relate:

Can you talk about why you chose Mia Wasikowska for Alice?
"She has both a young quality and an old quality. Very grounded — some people are just all over the place. But some people, they have that old soul quality. And that's what we felt was important for this Alice. But, at the same time, to be young — there are people with old souls who are also naïve at the same time. There's a certain slight passiveness to Alice that's always in the material. So we wanted to give her more of a quiet strength, which Mia has herself — just as a person. I just liked her quality. I always like it when I sense people have that old-soul quality to them. Because you're witnessing this whole thing through her eyes, it needed somebody who can subtly portray that."
.
.
.

~I too, have an old soul quality, I think.
My whole adult life I have always felt "older" than my actual age, even when I was a little girl... so as the years pass by so quickly... I'm just catching up, I suppose.

;)

What Does It All Mean?

2010-03-05T16:30:00.000-08:00

Why?

Why does one blog?
Who reads this stuff?
Who cares?
Don't we have better things to do?

Blogging is a funny world to be in.

I frequently visit quite a few daily. And, I admit I enjoy reading them. I have met some wonderful friends through these wires of the internet. Then I think, well why do people have a facebook? Same reasons, I think. Though blogging is a little more in depth of your life.

.

Yesterday I was visiting this lovely ladies blog. She was a given a heart-less and just plain
rude comment. Critiquing ones personality?
I am both sad and surprised:

{{{{"i just don't get this type of blogging. why would someone post a lengthy 'me, me, me' post for the entire world to read ~ and more importantly, why do complete strangers waste their time reading these posts? (I skipped to the bottom after the first couple if items.) There are a million and one better things you could be doing with your lives, people, get off your behinds and get out in the real world! Where have all the great photos gone? Think it's time to un-bookmark this blog. Bye-bye."}}}}

.

I don't understand why someone reads one's blog if they don't care? Why leave a hurtful message? Jealously? I don't know, I mean I know there is a lot of meanness in this world. It's everywhere.

So this has been on my mind all day.

I know it bothers her... and it really bothers me too.
.

Blogs are places we write and express ourselves. Online diaries per -say. And, if there is someone out there that's interested in your diary, than so be it. If not... then move on. Yes, it is all about us. Me, me, me!!!
How weird would it be if it was any other way?
I will say that I started this blog as a guide to my online vintage shop. Showcasing my new thrifted things.

Then it branched into the people, places and things I love. I'm not really good with words, though I do enjoy writing... but many days I'm at a lost with what to say.
I know I don't get very many visitors, I'm not the "popular girl" in the school. I am the shy girl and though I visit many blogs, I don't comment like I should, which probably explains why many do not comment here. I am more of a lurker and do need to work on that.
I am friendly, though shy, and enjoy blogging and am very grateful everyday for whomever visits little me and this simple life I lead. It is a really wonderful thing to come here and share all these things with you.

The world can be so isolating, and it amazing to have a little pocket of space where it feels anything but lonely.

Thanks for listening.

Thank Goodness Its Friday!

2010-03-05T11:11:00.000-08:00

So glad that I have a three day weekend.
Spring-like outside, hope it lasts!
Another weekend get-away... fun things planned, so I'll be back on Monday. I have lots of packages making their way to their new homes... so I'd better hop to it!

Happy Weekend!

Cardi~JCrew
Blouse~Odille
Skirt~Anthro
Knee-highs~Sock Dreams
Boots~Anthro
Bee Brooch~Vintage

bye for now. xo.

New Found

2010-03-05T08:34:00.000-08:00

Modest Mouse... new found love!
Not an original video, but such a cool song. I'm really liking these guys. I think I'll be downloading some of their music on my iPhone today.

{{please press pause on my playlist below to listen}}

Window Shopping

2010-03-04T17:38:00.001-08:00

Junebug is SO funny.
She is definitely a one-of-a-kind kitty.
We adopted her almost a year and a half ago and she is just figured out there are windows in the house. Only one window in the house actually has a table near it... a roost for her to peer through. Well.. not just that, but she has figured out how to open the shutters all by herself.
This window just so happens to be in our bedroom.
WONDERFUL right?
WRONG!!
Nothing like being woke up to this sunshine glare... junebugs quirky little ways!!

I got out my iPhone so you could see how cute she is, I can't stay mad at her too long after she wakes me up.

I took this this morning... here she is relaxed, hanging out... checking things out.

Here she is seeing something really, really good!!!! Maybe a bird in a tree? I don't know, I looked out there and seen nothing. I think she has telescopic eyes ::LOL::
Just a few minutes after I took this photo, she started making this funny squeaking noise and her tail was twitching crazily. Pretty funny.

Wednesday, March 3rd

2010-03-03T08:44:00.001-08:00

Marks my:

{awe,my first etsy sale}

Hard to believe it's been just about 365 days since I opened my shop here on Etsy.
One thing I had procrastinated about for months and months. I finally did for myself... set my mind to and I made it happen and I'm so proud of myself. Something quite small to some people, but Etsy has made a HUGE impact on my life. So much for the better and
I've learned so much having your own business...
and met some amazing friends along the way!

Though I joined Etsy on January 28Th, making sure I was able to have my shop name match by blog.... it took me several weeks to iron out the wrinkles and finally opened my doors.
So to mark my anniversary.... I am having a sale!

10% off - one or two treasures.
25% off - three or more treasures.
:shipping not discounted: - sorry.

Please choose which things you'd like to have, proceed to checkout. Then I will send you a revised paypal invoice with your discounts.

This sale will begin today March 3rd and end March 10Th.

I will also be having a giveaway {giftaway} soon ;)
So please look out for it!

Thanks for your support!

{{hugs}}
michelle

Good Things Come In Three's

2010-03-01T19:37:00.000-08:00

Three more things for the store.

1.Vintage Silver Squirrel Nutcracker.

2. Very Old Classroom Pencil Sharpener ::SOLD::
{Mr. Friend really liked this}

3. Vintage Made in England Carpet Bowls.

Goodbye February

2010-03-01T08:10:00.000-08:00

Hello March!

Goodness... March already? Where has the time gone? What ever happened to January?
I can tell already that this year is going to fly by.....

Here are a few new listings I've added to the store:

1. Newspaper Purse.

2. Darling Gold Hummingbirds. ::SOLD::

3. Fancy Bird Art.

4. GINORMOUS Vintage Set Of Playing Cards. ::SOLD::

5. The Courtroom Gavel.

6. Really neat set of very old forks and knives.

7. Charming Nightstand Size Celluloid Framed Loved One ::SOLD::
{one of my favorites}

I hope this weeks starts of good and treats you well!

It would be SO nice if something made sense for a change?

2010-02-28T07:51:00.000-08:00

Hooray!

Are you ready? Are you excited? I am!

Just 5 more days.......

Driving to Sacramento Imax.
Can't wait.

I've always loved this rendition of the story. 1903. So sweet.
To listen.. please press pause on my playlist below. The music goes so well with this vintage silent movie.

Hang a Shovel, add some Hangers...

2010-02-27T19:47:00.001-08:00

...and viola!!

OK... this is it! Perfect.
The extra closet space I've been looking for:

Isn't it great? I'll keep this one in mind!

I can't remember where I found this image, so sorry I can't link it to it's owner.

Presents From France

2010-02-27T06:31:00.000-08:00

So, well, yeah... maybe that post title is a little misleading.

But after finding these sweet treasures last night all whilst strolling the aisles of Trader Joe's.
I can't help to stop and think, "what a special treat, all the way from Paris"! My love affair with these little delicacies, will never perish...::wink::

Be still my heart:

OK, so I don't know how long they have been carrying these macarons, but I just about jumped out of my socks when I found them. Snuggled up with the chocolate covered bananas I love so well!

I was a little leery though... I mean, they come from the frozen foods area. Frozen french macarons? Hmm... what the heck, $5.00 a box. I'll try em!

I took out one vanilla and one chocolate to thaw for about thirty minutes... and let me just say right now.... they are amazing!!!!! delicious! Soft, chewy, creamy... sigh. Though they are petites, they are equally as yummy as their big brothers and sisters that I purchase in the City.

Thank you Trader Joe's.

Thank you for full filling my fix with this love affair of mine.

I'm headed back tomorrow to stock up on a few boxes, because with my luck they will discontinue the day after tomorrow. Which is pretty likely!

All this talk about cookies and candies and mallows, I'll be in need of an excersise program of some kind!!!! It's all about moderation. Right?

Thanks for listening to me ramble on my silliness...

Happy Saturday.

xxoo

Errands

2010-02-25T10:17:00.000-08:00

Well... I'm off to do a bunch of things that usually can't be done on a work day.
Fun, fun.
A few stops including the Dr's, the bookstore {actually that is fun!} I'm in some serious need of groceries!! eek! the only things I'm seeing in there edible is Oatmeal, Cheese Nips and a box of After Eights.
Have you had these little chocolate pieces of heaven?
My tastes have definitely changed as I have matured. I never like dark chocolate, let alone mint. I'm also craving chocolate covered marshmallows!! I find as I age, I see a lot of my mother in me{ Hence the chocolate mint and mallows}
Not that that is a bad thing... it's a good thing!
I love my mum.

Wool/Cardigan~Anthro
Layered Tee~Anthro
Skirt~Target{oh my! those wrinkles!}
Tights~Hue
Pumps~Chie Mihara

Well... I'm off. See you soon.

Charming Quotes

2010-02-23T21:23:00.000-08:00

Here is a photo I took on one of our walks, on Sunday ... I thought this tree was so pretty.
Stephen surprised me with an acorn & a little growing sprout.
::BIG smile::

I'm doing my best to keep this little thing alive...

“Faith sees a beautiful blossom in a bulb, a lovely garden in a seed, and a giant oak in an acorn.”

-William Arthur Ward

Tombstones With Moss Walk

2010-02-22T20:11:00.000-08:00

hallo!

Well, we're back! From a fun-filled weekend.
So much fun, I hated for it to end :(

It was a beautiful sunny weekend, and as I'd thought:

Good company.
Good food.
Shopping.

Many hours of just being plain silly!

Sunday, before our long drive home, we'd visited the towns cemetery.
Most of Stephen's family{mothers side}is buried here.
They have a family lot, as do most in this 150 year old cemetery.
It was so peaceful strolling through the paths, families of deer running around, squirrels and woodpeckers.... it was an almost wildlife adventure. I was in heaven exploring, so much moss and curiosities everywhere.

I took many, many, MANY photos and thought I'd share my favorites with you.

So beautiful:

This poor little tombstone... I think it says baby.

I know it might seem weird, but my high school is just behind those almond tress in the background.

These two we're really creepy, I should have photographed the other side, see where that brick is exposed? Well, the other side had caved in and you could see inside, literally.....eek!!

I thought this families lot was beautiful, surrounded by these old olive trees and stone.

We parked near this tree, kind of like "The Tree Of Souls", or something.
CREEPY!
but in cool-creepy-way!

Too much spookiness for you?

Fashion Friday

2010-02-19T07:40:00.000-08:00

Happy Friday Bloggers!

I myself am really, REALLY looking forward to the weekend. Mr. and me are headed for a weekend get away in California's wine country. We are going to reminish on days gone by. Visit places we visited when were dating, as teens :)

Good eats, good shopping and good time to stretch our wings.
Much needed too!
Yay!

I wore this skirt the other day. Totally forgot I had it. My once "walk in closet"... is becoming not so "walk in" these days. This spring, I am due for a good spring cleaning in there. I'm beginning to have mini-panic attacks, trying for the life of me, just to hang up a cardigan or dress!
I think in addition to my closet, it would be lovely to have a metal free-standing-clothes-rack in our room.
Maybe sitting in the corner... you know what I'm talking about? The kind in clothing stores, but a mini version?
Hmm... just a thought.

Long-SleeveTee~Target
Belt~Target
Skirt~Anthro {old}
Tights~SockDreams
MaryJanes~Ecco

Have a Good Weekend,
I'll be back on Monday!

New Loot To Boot

2010-02-18T12:29:00.000-08:00

I know it's a lot to look at.

I tell ya all these treasures have kept me busy.

Though today has been a be.in.your.pajamas.too.long day! I must get ready and go thrift shopping... as a sweet friend I have puts it, it is the BEST part of having this as your business. I'm just not finding that balance of "getting things listed before buying more".
I mean, I might miss out on that one diamond in the ruff, right? Right!

So goodbye for now!

If you see anything that tickles your fancy just let me know
;)

Happy

2010-02-15T18:08:00.000-08:00

Belated Valentines Day!

I'm not a big fan of Valentines Day. I'm sorry... I just thinks it's gotten too "spend-y and stress-y".

However, if you are {a fan},
I do hope you had a nice day yesterday. I insisted "he" didn't buy me anything this year, and I think it was hard for him not to. Instead I asked him to take me to eat at a favorite restaurant, sushi! and so we did, and it was YUMMY!

I pretty much worked all day yesterday and today :(
I'm exausted, really. I have all the new things for the shoppe cleaned up and ready to post. I hope to share them in my next post.

Well... I'm signing off for now. BBQ'd lemon-chicken in the kitchen with my name on it :)

OH!
Happy Presidents Day. Good ole Abe...

Pretty Red Trim

2010-02-12T21:48:00.000-08:00

More Zooey Deschanel. Yes, my girl crush ;)

and that adorable red trim pea coat!
A little research has led me to believe that this coat of perfection is in fact, vintage.
Of course it is. I mean just look at it. It's fantastic!
I should have known...

This site here... much too good not to share.
Check out their vintage coats section. Very cool! with reasonable prices!

Coat L♥ve

2010-02-11T17:39:00.001-08:00

hallo again.

Just popping back in because...

I had a fantastic day of thrifting today!! Some goods for the store, some for me.

Those things shall keep me busy for a few days. I still need to clean everything up and I'll sneak-peek some of the things very soon.

I wanted to share my "What I'm Wearing":

Coat~Saltwater
Cardigan~Anthro
Blouse~JCrew
Skirt~Anthro
Tights~Hue
Boots~MissAlbright
Pin~Vintage

I forgot to share my new coat! This is the one I got for our trip to Germany in September.
It's so nice.

I was easily inspired by this unmistakably-cute wandering girl, whom has the same coat. What I really loved about hers was it's length and color. But, when it arrived it was even prettier and more perfect than I imagined.

This teeny-weeny silver spoon brooch was one thrift find from last Saturday.
Isn't it cute?

Catalog L♥ve

2010-02-11T10:04:00.001-08:00

The love for a catalog?
Silly really...
but true!

Anthropologie, how do you do this?
Photograph so beautifully?

Vintage Circus's? Really?

Loving this outfit! The dress, the sweater, the belt. Perfect!
I'll take it. Everything!

I get so drawn into the pictures, I sometimes forget it's a clothing catalog.

If a store ever opens a close driving distance to me, I assure you I will be working at it!
Of course, I may have to move. Who knows. Someday.

... and yes here is proof of a hoarding disorder or OCD.
Two years, maybe three, Anthropologie catalogs!

I could maybe make a fortune and sell them on Ebay...

...nah, never!

;)

A Newbie or Two.

2010-02-09T14:49:00.000-08:00

Listed just now, for the store:

1. Vintage Silver Shells.

2. Two Vintage Mice Pins.

3. A hard to part with- Mushroom Salt/Pepper Set.

4. Charming Old Set Of Laundry Hangers.

5. Very Old Needlepoint Framed Art.

.
.
.

Lazy day here, as I sit in my office ;)
aka- the dining room table. Here as I sit and behind me I'm ...

... surrounded by the sound of my wind chimes, a few birds singing and the dishwasher *lol*

It was storming terribly a short time ago,
and who doesn't love the air outdoors, after a good rain. Although it's stopped and it's pretty cold, I sit here {bundled-up} updating my shoppe with my doors opened behind me. I love it!

I hope it's peaceful where ever you may be.

{{hugs}}

New Blouse

2010-02-06T12:07:00.001-08:00

hello Saturday.

hello rain.

hello readers.

I bought this new top a little while ago at the JCrew outlet.

Pictures just don't pick up the details... it has the prettiest buttons and ruffles and things and I tried to do my best to share it. The jumper I also picked up that day at JCrew.

Goodness there clothes are so, so nice, aren't they?
I love the simplicity of their clothes.

My H&M cardigan is so comfy.

The brooch was a special surprise from this lovely etsy shoppe.
A few months back this adorable lady asked if I "traded" on etsy and since I never had, I complied... and it was a sweet trade!!!
She wanted a couple of my treasures from my shoppe, so I checked out her shoppe and although I'm very flattered that etsy sellers ask if I'd like to trade, I've never found anything I really wanted to trade.

Her tooth bracelet that I shared here, was what I was more than happy to trade with!!

And, I'm so glad I did, because I love it so much!

Mini Updates

2010-02-04T16:04:00.000-08:00

I'm feeling pretty comfortable with these "mini" updates.

I think I'll try this for awhile, as it gives me a lot more breathing space. Adding just a few new items to the shoppe vs. doing a huge update... which is my usual habit. So, as weather permits you will be seeing 3-4 newbies listed everyday, minus weekends. I like this!

Thrift stores have been really good to me these last couple weeks. I've found several unique treasures. I work on cleaning them up, before they're listed of course. That's usually a pretty big task in itself. Several stores I frequent each day mark there prices in sharpie... which make me cringe!!! Especially when they price on wood. That's where goof-off comes in.
I swear I worship the stuff!

Here's a sneak-peek on a few things I just added to le' shoppe:

1. Antique Iron Family.

2. Metal Photo Display-Stand.

3. Vintage Tea-Tin.
{whispers}-with a secret surprise inside!

I found this old tea tin with 25 tiny yellow envelopes each with a safely stashed butterfly!
I was so happy when I found it!

All of these are for sale now. Please hop on over here and check em out:
Happy Thursday!

{hugs}
~michelle

Bicycle Parade

2010-02-04T12:51:00.001-08:00

Some fun photos of cycling.

I'd really like to have this blue one for my own!

Or this one!

Adorable little granny puttin around town.

Zooey and her bike. She is just so darn cute!

I wish I could do that... that, fancy coffee art!

I really wish I lived in a "bicyle-riding" friendly town. I'd like to have my own pee-wee herman style bike.

Three Sweet Treasures...

2010-02-03T11:02:00.001-08:00

... just listed in the shoppe today.

1. Vintage Cased Butterfly

2. Quirky Little Brass Bird.

3. Charming Old Perfume Bottle

Thanks for peeking!

;)

Happy Wednesday!

Too, too many tights!

2010-02-03T08:59:00.000-08:00

Morning friends!

As I was having my coffee & eating breakfast this morning I was browsing Anthopologie's website. I have the following four things in my shopping-bag, totally unintentional and coincidental that it's Valentines Day soon...

pretty!

I must tell you that Anthros tights are the best!
And if your like me, and have a bit of a "hoarding" disorder in your
dresser.drawers.filled.with.so many.pairs.of.tights.that.the.drawer.won't.close,
than this is the sale for you.
This time of year is the best time to stock up on them, winter is obviously still upon us and what better time to wear tights than in the spring? Perfect timing.

I especially like these lacy ones!

Though I have an array of colors in that over.stuffed.drawer of tights.
White is my favorite.

German Word Of The Day

2010-02-02T19:45:00.000-08:00

der Mantel (Mäntel) - Coat

Easy to spell. Easy to write... forget about me trying to say it!!! Eek!

This coat is too pretty not to share:

Vintage Butter Car Coat

What's makes this coat even better is its label ;)
awesome!

This coat is a gift to myself for our trip to Germany.
It's more perfect than any other coat I own. It's so pretty, fitted... so it's quite flattering! I think my favorite thing about it, is that it's super warm but very, very light. Which is a good thing... because I've heard they weigh your luggage at the airport? Wow... I've never known this! Of course, I've only "flown" twice.
Both were one hour flights. I'm definitely going to need some advice on packing light for a two week trip to Europe!!!!!!
You will help me won't you? Advise me...

<3 michelle

Goodbye January

2010-02-01T06:54:00.000-08:00

Hello.
February!

"There are two means of refuge from the misery of life - music and cats." ~Albert Schweitzer

I just love Junebugs pink nose!

This is what she does as I lie in bed reading at night... she literally lays right on top of me. I'd like to think she's actually cuddling with me, though I think she's just stealing my warmth. I snapped these pics with my iPhone. IPhone's actually have pretty good cameras.
I'm surprised!
Yet not.

Hoping your doing well on this fine February 1st morning!

Fur.r.r.y Things

2010-01-31T07:49:00.000-08:00

Good morning!

I found this fox-fur scarf on Friday, while thrifting. I really like it! I've actually been secretly shopping on Etsy & Ebay for a vintage fur scarf of some kind. Whether mink, or fox... etc. it didn't really matter. But... I hadn't really came across one that tickled my fancy.
Than I found this one! Though not vintage it is very nice. Isn't it?
I was lucky and picked it up with it's tags still attached. It had a price tag from Bloomingdales.
It's real fox fur, from Norway it says. It was a bit pricey for me, for a thrift store. It was marked $24.99. Maybe I got a good deal.
Who knows.

Speaking of furry!

Are these two not the cutest furry-french-donkeys you've ever seen?
They can be found in this adorable shop.

Can I please have my very own... furry-miniature-donkey!!!
Please?

One Two

2010-01-30T12:31:00.001-08:00

... guilty pleasures.

Is that so bad?

1. yum

2. a must have {wink}

this one not so guilty...
... quite charming actually.

I picked this CD up the other day and it's been spending the afternoon with me putting around town thrift shopping. It's wonderful, I've really been enjoying it. Songs from the 30's, 40's and 50's.... sounds from the deep south.
I love listening to oldies/classics music from this time era, totally gets me in the mood for junking!!

Have a Lovely Weekend.

What You May Not Know

2010-01-28T18:00:00.001-08:00

About Me?

My sweet friend littlebyRD has asked me to share 7 facts about me, things you don't know. I didn't put a whole lot of thought into it, just the first things that came to mind.

So here goes:

1. I have "night terrors" when I sleep, had them since I was a little girl. Not every night, but often. They're awful. I don't know where they come from, I don't live a stressful life... maybe I watch too many scary movies?

2. I don't really like watching Television, but I do like American Idol... I know, I know :)

3. I have two children, a girl and a boy.

4. I enjoy being by myself, I guess I'm more of a loner.

5. I used to own a 1965 "original" mini cooper. It was the Australian model. It was SO cute! SO tiny.. I miss it! The guy we bought it from was working on the Shrek film over seas and bought the car when he was there and had it shipped here to California.

6. Favorite foods? Foods I eat WAY to much of are Oatmeal, Croissants, Cottage Cheese and Shrimp, and coffee... err wait that's not a food.

7. In the last 10 years, I've visited Disneyland 6 different times... always at Christmas.

So there ya have it!

Interesting? Eh.

:D

Oh What A Difference...

2010-01-27T12:50:00.000-08:00

...a day made!

♪ ♫ ♪ ♫

See what I woke up to...

...SUNSHINE!!!!!
{{squeal}}
thank you. thank you. thank you.

It's been SO, so dark and dreary these last couple of weeks. It smells SO nice out there.

Sunshine = Picture Time/Shoppe Update.

So,
Here is a sneak-peek of things I was able to photograph before work. It will all be listed very, very soon.

SO....without further ado:

Metal File Box.

Wooden Cubby/Shadow Box.

Vintage Carpet Bag. Sah-weet!

Vintage Engraved Silver Goblets.

Flocked Deer.

Handmade Rag Bowl.

Vintage Silver Sugar Bowl.

Yay!! This just a smidgen of what's in store for you.

I'm feeling pretty good today :D

See ya soon!

Store Setup

2010-01-24T19:30:00.000-08:00

Hallo ;)

Well it's the end of the weekend and now have a new corner of my home for my etsy store.

Terrible lighting{lamp light}, of course-sorry.
But I couldn't wait to share what I'd found.

The thrift store I frequently visit was throwing away this old letter press drawer, how could they?
I drove through the back of the store one day and seen it poking out of the dumpster. I don't usually dumpster dive. But, maybe I should more often?
That was a pretty good day!

Originally I thought I'd sell it, but than I thought about it's size and shipping it-ugh!
Than I thought it might a good back drop for showcasing my new listings, for the winter that is.
My preference is to photograph all of the new treasures outdoors, in my garden but as weather permits.... that won't be happening anytime soon. Whether it's the cold or the rain, it's just not going to happen until Spring.

I've added a few of my own curiosities for fun. I was just looking around quickly for little tiny objects to add.

This old wooden bench I also picked up while thrifting not too long ago,
I think I paid $6.00 or so.

I've said it before...... I'll say it again..now if the lighting will just work with me I could finally update le' shoppe! I may have to move it around the room. Play around with the best spots as the light shines through. Grrrr......

Please mother nature, bring me some sunshine soon....... please.

Cold and Windy with a Chance of Showers

2010-01-22T17:37:00.000-08:00

"hallo".
I guess that's hello, in German. That's an easy one!
Hmm.....
.....learning a bit of German is on my to-do-list.
Basic words of course.

Only 241 days to go.
I'm already thinking of what I'll take, what I'll wear.
I've bought a new coat for our trip, it's coming in the mail. I ordered it from Europe. On clearance! Can't wait!

I'm getting things together for passports. Working on getting our taxes together. I've been really, really busy lately. It's kept me from my blog {{sigh}}.

I thinks it been raining for a week straight!
Very, very wet!
I had a nice afternoon.
Wrapping up orders while watching Matilda. I had a short shift at my day job today, which is nice at times. Got me to get a lot of everyday-life-things done.
I'm getting together a little corner of my home for taking photos of the new treasures I have. The rain has kept me from updating my shoppe. I don't have a lot of windows in here. So I'm hoping the lighting in this dark January month, will work with me. I'll see how it goes.

I know it's a bit soon to say..... but I'm looking forward to you, Spring!!!

Now dinner..... what to have, that is the question?

Happy Weekend to ya!

Charming Quote

2010-01-16T11:30:00.001-08:00

"Be pleasant until ten o'clock in the morning and the rest of the day will take care of itself."
-Elbert Hubbard

Hi 'ya!

Cabin fever today!!
We're getting out of the house, cold and dreary or not!!!

It doesn't matter where we go!!!!
will take care of itself." - Elbert Hubbard "Be pleasant until t morning and the rest of the day will take care of itself." - Elbert Hubbard
Happy Weekend.

Dear Meryl Streep,

2010-01-12T17:28:00.000-08:00

You are my favorite lady in Hollywood.

I think your wonderful! An amazing actress, as well as beautiful.
Your smart and witty. And you've never starred in a movie I didn't like.

love a fan,
miss.michelle

{Photo from my very, favorite movie of hers, "Bridges Of Madison County."}
.
.
.
.

Hello friends,
I just watched Julie & Julia recently and loved it!

Have you seen it yet?
So cute and charming. I have a different perspective of Julia Child's...
what a neat lady! I'm now on a mission to find her 1st book, Mastering the Art of French Cooking.
Maybe I'll check Ebay. I'd like the vintage edition, not the new one. It's probably going for an arm and a leg though!!!

Mr. Friend, just cooked her Roast Chicken for me, the other night and it was amazing!!!!
(I secretly love it when I come home from a long days work, and he's cooked for me.)
:wink:

Please press pause on my music playlist below.

We'd like to try more of her recipes.
Off on a mission to find that book....... wish me luck!

A Day In The Life

2010-01-08T16:19:00.000-08:00

of me.

When I'm not tending the shoppe,

I'm here.

A few photo's of things I see, 25-30 hours a week.........
.......little vignettes here and there.

I've been working more than ever, these past few weeks.
Down two people, puts more work load for others. Like me.

I'm not complaining though..OK, maybe a little.
Let me just say, "I'm happy the Holiday Season is over-with!"

This magnet that hangs in the back, says how we really feel.

It's cold here.
Overcast and Lovely.

But also makes me quite lazy.
Christmas tree is still lite and sitting in the window.... one of these days I'll get to taking it down*lol*

Dishes waiting to be washed, clothes piling....begging to be folded. Beds unmade..... packages waiting for their journey to the P.O.
*sigh*

I'm in need of some serious energy.

A Featured...

2010-01-04T21:22:00.000-08:00

...seller this week is one of my favorite etsy shoppes.

It's not often I see vintage shoppes featured, etsy does a good job picking out the most charming shoppes, I'd say.
.
.
.
.
.

OH!
To be a" featured" etsy seller!!!
*sigh*
One can only dream.

What an honor.
What a wonderful opportunity.

I've read that your handpicked, by the working elves at the etsy headquarters.

I'm GREEN with envy.
But congratulations to ethanoille, you have a lovely shoppe and whole-heartily deserve it!

New Year Greetings

2009-12-31T12:12:00.000-08:00

Happy New Years Sweet Readers!

It's been really quiet around here lately.
You know how it is... Christmas is over, family has left. The excitement is gone, the decorations are coming down....sigh. I always get like this, during this time, every year.
I'm just a little blue today :'(

It's been especially quiet in my shoppe.
I am trying to enjoy it, though, a little depressing at times. But I know it's just that time of year. Some say it's a blessing in disguise.
Though it's been really slow in my shoppe, it has given me time to really enjoy this Holiday Season. I, like this lady, am enjoying the calmness of it all, & I'm going to give it my all in 2010. I'm excited for the new year, a fresh start, fresh ideas & a camera in hand.... and it will begin with lots of new treasures for my shoppe {{Boxes full I tell ya}}!!
Goodbye 2009, thank you for everything you've done for me.

I do hope everyone stays safe tonight, enjoy yourselves and see ya next year!

hugs,
michelle

PS- My New Years goals:
1. Read at least one book a month.
2. Floss twice a day.
3. Save $$$ each week.

The Three Things

2009-12-30T16:43:00.000-08:00

That made me smile today.

1. It's a rare occasion for a family member to buy me a gift that is vintage.
My very thoughtful mother-in-law did just that, this Christmas Eve. This is one of the four special vintage treasures she surprised me with. It's a very sweet art deco brooch.
I wore it today.
I've come to find that I would much rather have something vintage as a gift vs. something new store bought. I feel like someone really knows me with a sweet gesture as such..... I don't think she reads my blog but....
thank you debbie!

"A world without string is chaos"
An awesome quote from one of my very favorite movies ever, (Mousehunt).

2. I had a good day of thrifting today, I've been finding some treasures-of-silver lately. Such precious, abandoned pieces of tarnished silver and I can't wait to list them in my shoppe. This giant ball of string is one of the not so silvery treasures I picked up today....isn't it wonderful!?! Silly really... but I snapped it up in a heartbeat. I think it looks great sitting upon this antique lamp base. Kind of sculpture like? No?

3. I always purchase these vintage Apothecary Jars, I know I've spoke about this before in past posts, my love for them. They're just one of those things that has 1,000 uses. Such stylish storage. This one I picked up today is for a very, very special stash ;)

Only 264 days to go!!!

Let The Countdown Begin!

2009-12-29T00:01:00.000-08:00

Myspace Countdowns, Fun Countdowns at WishAFriend.com

Who: Stephen & Me
When: September 21-Oct.3, 2010
Where: Germany Excursion
Why: Oktoberfest/ Countryside Sightseeing

I'm SO excited!
I'm sure I'll talk about it all year long!

Details coming soon....

:D

Cold, Gray and Docs Today

2009-12-28T16:25:00.000-08:00

Yes, I do wear jeans from time to time. It's not too often though. I only own one pair, that I wear and they/these are like 10 years old and from Old Navy. Complete with hole in one knee from falling on my face while walking my dog one fall day a couple years ago.
And ..when I do wear pants, it's my favorite Docs that are pulled out of my closet!

This pair I actually found while thrifting. I think they were like $3.99, I have a brown pair as well, so similar. I don't think whomever donated them never, ever, even wore them once.
I own four pairs of Doc Martens, though only one of the four I actually paid full retail price for. Which is well worth there weight in gold, as they last a decade or more. I have found that finding Docs while thrift shopping is easier than you think, keep your eyes peeled, you'd be surprised!

I've owned these a couple of years now, I'd wear them more often if they looked cute with skirts/dresses.
They look like boots but they only come up to my ankle. Reasons I can't get away with wearing them with a dress :)
I think I'd look like a little goth girl if I did. Which isn't necessarily a bad thing, if I were 15 years younger.

December, 27th

2009-12-27T17:21:00.000-08:00

is the day that my shoppe had it's

th

sale!!

I just wanted to pop in real quick and share my gratitude. I feel so very fortunate, with my shoppe, my friends, my customers.
2009 has been so good to me.
Nine months ago, I began selling my pretty vintage things. Who would have ever thought I would be so successful with 400 sales in those short months....

not me :)

I have a warm fuzzy feeling inside...

thank you for that!

{{update...... well it was 400 sales, until my 400th customer decided she didn't "want" it, after all :( }} Oh well, what can ya do!

I W.I.S.H...

2009-12-25T15:31:00.000-08:00

...each and everyone of you the very, very best this wonderful Holiday
and for the new year!

This Christmas card is for you:

love,
michelle

A tiny CHRISTMAS TRAGEDY

2009-12-22T21:35:00.000-08:00

Long story short. Our live Christmas Tree died!
R.I.P.

Sad, sad, sad.
Lessons learned that even though you water your tree everyday, a blazing fire in the stove will dry out your tree!

We got to decorate two trees this year! Phew. All is well in the end, packages are wrapped and under the tree...stockings are hung on the chimney with care.....

....not a creature was stirring...not even a mouse.

I hope your all enjoying the season. Disappointing at times..... with the hustle and bustle, and traffic and madness. So many forget what it's all about.
It's nice to just sit back, watch the twinkling lights on the tree and think how wonderful 2009 has been to us.
I'm looking forward to what the new year brings. Lots of thoughts and new ideas for my shoppe. I have many new treasures, but they will have to wait until after the first week in January.

~Merry.Cozy.Happy.Christmas~
To you.

see ya soon.
xxoo

Christmas Corners

2009-12-13T16:17:00.000-08:00

So....
our Christmas decorating has been up for a couple weeks now. I've had this terrible flu-bug and it's kept me from sharing the corners of our Christmas here. We don't go all-out with decorating, we mainly have our tree and little things here and there.
This year we got a real Christmas tree.... we usually set up our flocked-with-snow-artificial-tree, but we just wanted something different this year. I've been collecting Department 56's Krinkles collection for years now and have enough Krinkle ornaments to cover our entire flocked tree. Though I love them.... we kept them tucked away in their boxes.
This year we dug out all of our "vintage" Christmas ornaments. We just wanted a change and it's a nice change too.

It's a smaller tree, only about 5 feet and sitting upon a pedestal. Keeping the fur-babies from eating it!

This little stuffed star is our new ornament this year. Right above his head is one of my most-treasured... a mercury glass Santa. He's very, very, old and so sweet!

I know this looks like real popcorn, but it's just plastic. Isn't it great?

Our nativity scene!

Christmas wouldn't be complete without Charlie and his little tree!

I Need...

2009-12-10T15:56:00.000-08:00

...a sniffling, sneezing, coughing, aching, stuff-head, fever....so I can rest medicine!
Do you remember that commercial?

It's the end of my vacation at work, I'm back to work and now get the flu-bug... tis the season I guess.
At least I wasn't ill during my vacation.

So now, after about 20 hours of sleep today. I woke up to a very special present from this incredible lady!

Look how sweet this little girl is:

That little enchanting face?

She's already hanging with the others, which a certain someone who shares this room with me calls our creepy, sleepy, silhouette bedroom.

She remembered that I collected them?

I have some incredibly sweet and thoughtful blogging friends. To find presents from faraway places in my mail-box from friends that I have never actually met. I'm amazed and incredibly lucky to have such friends through the wires of the Internet!

I'm feeling better already {who needs medicine}..... thank you Alicia!

Scrambled/Weird Thoughts

2009-12-09T09:38:00.000-08:00

Ins't it cazry taht you can raed tihs sntecene atefr i've smbacerld the cneter of ecah wrod and jsut kpet the fsirt and lsat lteetr in ecah of tehm?

That's pretty cool. Huh? I found it randomly last night. My spellcheck is freaking-out! {{lol}}

I was also thinking wouldn't it be weird if everyone drove the same car?
A family member mentioned that the other day, and I keep thinking about it!

Wouldn't it be weird?
Think about it!!

I know, complete random post. {{lol}}

=)

Have a nice day!

Keeping Warm

2009-12-05T12:12:00.001-08:00

I have a lot of layering going on here.

Though I love coats, and have a few favorite ones in my dressing room. It's just nice staying warm with layers upon layers-rather than taking your coat on and off when running errands and things.
These photos I took with my iPhone.
Not too bad I guess, really grainy though-sorry.

Denim Jacket~Gap
Long Sleeve Layering Top~Gap
Lace Slip~TJMax
Dress~Forever21
Cardigan~Anthro
Tights~Hue
Knee Socks~Forever21
Boots~Anthro
Wool-Mittens~Etsy via LittleBYrd
Christmas Tree Santa Pin~Vintage

Brr.... it's really chilly today. I think it's like 40' out there.
HEY!
That's cold to me :D

I just love this time of year when I'm able to wear some of my Vintage Christmas Tree Pins. Several years ago I went through a phase of collecting Vintage Christmas Tree Brooches. I had to dig to find them the other day. My, I have some pretty ones! I'd love to share them with you sometime. This one is probably my most favorite one. A teeny bit evil with his red rhinestone eyes, but he did come that way, isn't he cool?

..... Me Me Me!

2009-12-04T12:53:00.000-08:00

Ok, I'll stop now.

But look how pretty:

{Swoon}

Taxidermy Fawn.

"Focus, focus... note: this is a time for giving."
{Sigh}

A Christmas Tree Man In England?

2009-12-03T06:14:00.000-08:00

This is just about the coolest thing I've ever heard of!

Meet the Christmas Tree Man!

I want one!!!!

No fair...
I want to rent a Christmas Tree{foot-stomp}!

You pick out your very own live tree, they deliver it, and pick it up after Christmas-WoW.
AND, to have the same Christmas Tree each and every year?-COOL!

I've seriously never heard of such a thing,
Oh to live in England!
He just so happens to deliver to Wales.......... *sigh*
.
.
.
.
.

Speaking of living in England!

I've been shopping/real estate for my dream cottage there, online! wink.wink.

Here a few of the cottages at the top of my list {all for sale}:

This is a fun web-site!

100 pages of cottages for sale throughout the Cotswolds of England. Most expensive are first{castles & whatnot}, than when you get to the 80th through 100th page, they are actually my favorites. Yep- the most inexpensive homes of England would make me very, very happy indeed! I don't need a castle, just give me a tiny.quaint.stone cottage! I have no need for 7 bathrooms.

I get a funny, envious pit in my stomach as I search through some of these homes this morning.
Though I've never lived outside of the U.S, sometimes/deep down, I really think I belong here, living in the Cotswolds ..... *sigh*

:)

The 12th Month

2009-12-02T07:28:00.000-08:00

Where as many have snow and can actually call this winter. My little neck of the woods here in California is quite the opposite. Though winter here, it's in the 60's & 70's. Very pretty, and I have no complaints at all! Super clear blue skies... and cool breezes!

As far as what I'm wearing it's pretty much been the same.

Skirt, scarf, tights, cardigan,mary-janes/boots.

Here is an example of just that:

Blouse~Target
Cardigan~H&M
Scarf~H&M
Skirt~Gap
Tights~Hue/Anthropologie
Suede Mary-Jane's~Merrell

This skirt, though not much to look at, is one of my favorite pieces of clothing I own. I don't know, it's {in my book} the perfect length, and pretty much goes with everything. I wear it the most, whether alone or as a petticoat.

Holiday Shopping & A Wish List!

2009-12-01T09:14:00.001-08:00

Well, I'm working on it anyways!

Such lovely things to see on Etsy!

I do love shopping for gifts on-line. So much more convenient and much less stressful. It would also be quite sad to not take any real life Christmas shopping trips. So, I do feel the need to get out of the house and jump in with the crowds. It can be fun! I'm crossing my fingers that this year we'll head to Union Square in the city!

Here are some of my favorite things on Etsy right now. Such pretty things, by the looks of these photos now, It's looking more like my wish list. My mind wanders, I know, I am thinking of others, but I do get a little distracted.
I can't help it :)

...just a few things that i wouldn't mind giving or receiving this holiday season.

See for yourself:

Vintage inspired 20's dress.

Taxidermy Crow.

The perfect red/white stripe scarf.

Oh! I love her!

Milk Glass Hands.

A cabinet of curiosities of your very own?

I'm on vacation this week.
Nothing planned.
Other than the GIANT flea-market by the bay, on Sunday. Maybe a little thrift shopping, for my shoppe, today, tomorrow and the day after that...... I guess more of a stay-cation.......suits me fine though!

Happy Shopping Sweet Readers!

Jelly Jars With A Pretty Table

2009-11-28T20:31:00.000-08:00

I sit here as I type, quite tired really!

Such a big, long weekend.
But it's been nice. Lots of cooking, cleaning, eating, and even more cleaning. I think the worst part of the Holidays is the clean-up!
I know everyone says it, but I truly consumed enough food for four people {lol}

Oh! and we went to see the Christmas Carol in 3-D. Have you seen it yet? It's amazing, if you haven't. If you have the choice, see it in 3-D!!! The Graphics are out of this world. It was much like a ride.

I think we cooked one of the BEST dinners to date. Everything was so, so good!
The table, I thought, very pretty.

Our Christmas tree is up!

It smells so good.

Have a good rest of the weekend, here, as we creep our way into December.

Peace and Plenty

2009-11-25T10:31:00.000-08:00

Happy Thanksgiving Eve!
To any whom visit this teeny, tiny blog.

Bless you and yours on this Thankful Day!

Six reasons I have to be thankful for:

1. Our Cozy HOME.

2. My Beautiful FAMILY.

3. The Crazy FUR/FEATHERED-Babies.

4. Our Well BEING.

5. My Sweet Blogging FRIENDS.

6. Etsy.

love to you,
michelle.f

I Want That Kitty!

2009-11-23T09:56:00.001-08:00

I love a good laugh,

I was seriously cracking up at this poor police officer trying to hand out a traffic violation, all while being so gentle with this persistent little kitty!

There's no sound.

Enjoy!

Against My Will...

2009-11-23T08:50:00.000-08:00

...I will be watching New Moon, this evening.

My boss is treating all of us to a movie, then dinner and drinks. Of course the movie chosen was this new Twilight movie. Trust me it wasn't unanimous! { heck... I haven't even seen the first one}!! lol
Mind you, I'm not really into a teenager craze movies. Should I be worried? HELP!

It means alot to her to have us all together, so I have to be there ;)

On a different note:

I have so much to do this week. What with Thanksgiving and all. I'm hosting it at my house this year.

I really wanted to pick up a fresh Christmas tree a little earlier than usual, for my family. Have things a little more festive, as some of them may not be here for Christmas. But wouldn't ya know it, not a fresh tree to be found this weekend:
Target, Nada!
A few street corners, Nada!
Home Depot, Nada!
I always thought they sold Christmas trees WAY sooner than the arrival of Thanksgiving? No? I usually set up my pretty flocked artificial tree, so it shows you how much I know about this :D

I have some neat new treasures ready to be posted in the shoppe, that's another thing I am working on this week. So if things go as I'd like, I'll have at least some of them listed.

I hope the beginning of this short week is treating you well!
See you soon.

An Oldie But A Goodie & Teeth

2009-11-19T14:59:00.000-08:00

I've had this dress for a couple of summers now. One of my favorites but not worn as much as I should. I love it's misc. patchwork, and feels so very comfy.

Dress~U.O.
Cardigan~H.M.-hooray!
Socks~Target
Boots~Anthro
Brooch~Gift
Bracelet~Etsy

So yeah, we just had a brand new H&M put in town, I'm very excited! They have the best cardigans and scarves and accessories and things! I was one of those silly people waiting in line for it's grand opening. It was worth it though cause they gave me a 25$ gift card just for that :D
I want to pick up one of their cardigans in every color that they carry!!

I also wanted to share a new family heirloom ;)
I picked up on Etsy.
Well, if you read my blog than you kinda know I like interesting and unusual things ;)
So this bracelet I have, was made by a charming Etsy seller. She re purposes alot of jewelry for making and she found this old necklace made of teeth, that's right teeth!!! I know, I know.....but it's SOOOO cool and of course I just had to have it! Please don't judge me.{{lol}} And there polished and smoothed out.
Story is she picked it up from an older lady that couldn't remember where she picked up the teeth. OK by me though. I love it!

It's my new favorite thing.

Pt. 2 To The Typewriter Stand Story

2009-11-18T10:59:00.000-08:00

hi.

Well initially they're wasn't a plan for a part 2 to my sad short story.

First off, thank you for listening to me babble on and on in my pity :)
AND...
thank you for the many of you that offered to keep there eyes peeled in the case you came across one of these little stands, not even thinking as a wrote that post as to how I'd even be able to have it shipped to me.
::hee.hee::
but your generous offers were certainly appreciated!!!

One reader however, commented that she had one or two in her store and her shoppe was just a few miles out of town. You can visit her blog here, a very, very sweet lady by the name of Sandi ;)

I really have her to thank!
Because as Mr.Friend and I browsed her most charming boutique I really contemplated on purchasing one of her two tables she had for sale. Kicking myself in the butt and missing out on one for 10 bucks, I was having a hard time bringing myself down to pay full price. Her prices were really quite good though, $49, not too bad. But, it wasn't so much the price that kept me from buying it, it was the hunt and satisfaction of finding one on my own while thrifting. Do you know what I mean? I hope so, otherwise I'm making no sense at all.
::lol::

I decided to pass on her stands, but the chances of me returning were good. My inner self was telling me to wait. So we drove out to another small town not too far from her shop, a thrift store. Which I never really go to and hadn't gone if I wasn't already out that way. Anyhoo..... I found a stand!!!! Five minutes into our shopping excursion it sat, and waited for me in the furniture department. I truly gasped, looked over at hubby's and felt the biggest grin on my face!!!
$2.99.... did you hear me $2.99. What? Are you serious?
But OH NO, it gets even better, when I went to check out, furniture just so happened to be 40% off that day :D
SO...
I paid a whopping $1.81? WOW!!

I think I'll use it as a side table for now.

But the day gets EVEN better! Oh yeah!
Next thrift shop close to my home had another one! Almost identical, just heavier! And $4.99.
Can you believe it? Two in one day? How in the *beep* does that happen?

This little stand will assist me in the shipping department for my shop, eventually I'll have a little vintage typewriter sitting upon it and assist me with thank you notes to my customers.

I really do have Sandi to thank! Thank you for commenting me and giving the push to get out of the house that day. If it wasn't for you, I'd still be a little sad ;)

Thank you for listening to me ramble on about such a silly story really!

Happy Wednesday!

Storytime In French

2009-11-16T18:25:00.000-08:00

A very sweet friend of mine sent me this video.
I don't visit YouTube very much, but this little girl has to be the
CUTEST thing I've EVER seen in my whole life!

Please press pause on my playlist and sit back and enjoy her story:

PS. I have a wonderful, truly unbelievable happy ending to my last post.

I can't wait to share what happened!

A Typewriter Stand Short Story

2009-11-13T15:36:00.000-08:00

I found one of these while thriting a couple weeks ago. This isn't the exact one, but very similar to it. It was in much, much better shape than this one too.

First day I seen it, I really liked it. $9.99, and a good price. BUT, I thought Hmmm?

A week later shopping again with Mr.Friend, and I looked at it again. He says, " You know what that is don't you?" {lol}, yup! I still passed it up...AGAIN!

My third visit it was gone :(
Of course, after I'd thought about it and wanted it!!!!
I can't for the life of me think why I didn't take it? I could just kick myself. I know we've all done it, if you see something you like, BUY IT!

So that's the moral of my short story!
A VERY sad ending.
I JUST CAN'T GET IT OFF MY MIND!!!!

I REALLY, really want one! If any readers out there has one{that you don't want}, or see's one{cheap}, please think of me ;)
-hee.hee

Happy Weekend!

Sneak Peek Inspiration{for-me}

2009-11-09T23:49:00.000-08:00

Sophie Blackall... a wonderful artist and certainly one of my favorites.
Her etsy shop can be found here.

She is featured on design sponge, with pictures of her lovely apartment:

A lot of comments on how it's a bit bizarre and creepy.
I beg to differ.
I adore her collections. Yes, many things that would other wise be discarded but collected very beautifully.

Her armadillo looks a bit familiar ;)
eh?

{all pics courtesy-design*sponge}

We share the same aesthetic. She uses a lot of elements and features many things I use and display in my own home.

As another commenter stated:"I love the cabinet of curiosities feel. I wouldn't say creepy—more like wondrous or awe-inspiring".

I agree whole-heartily!!!!

If you'd like you can read more here.

If On A Winter's Night

2009-11-05T17:46:00.000-08:00

I am definitely a Winter person.

WINTER is all about tranquility, meditation and calmness.

I purchased this CD today....

....it's wonderful!

It's magical, enchanting, soothing & yet a little eerie. Just perfect.
You can find it here.

ps. please press pause on my playlist{below} to listen.

xo
~michelle

A Bear. A Cart. A Blanket & A Bag

2009-11-03T12:05:00.000-08:00

First off....
....Happy November!

Yes, I was excited for the weekend!!!
In the wee morning hours, Mr. Friend and I headed here!

My new favorite place to go. It's the first Sunday of every month. Hooray!
It's really beautiful, the San Fransisco city sky line across the Bay!!! A perfect location for a flea market.

I wanted to share some of my best-est finds:

A tiny wind-up vintage Japanese toy Bear!
{He just kills me}

So all day, I'd see shoppers here and there pulling around these little vintage metal basket/carts, I was SOOOO wanting one of my own, but none were to be found. Until almost the last isle of the show, I seen one from a distance.
Filled with rolls & rolls of vintage fabric, I was sure it was only for display. BUT.... it wasn't and for $20.00, I thought it was a steal! Mr. Friend says it suits me :)
Though I hadn't used it much because it was the end to our day, he says he'll be able to find me easily, with those squeaky wheels :)

AND... it folds-up!
It's going to come in handy, holding all my diamonds in the rough!

I also picked up this lovely vintage grey military woolen blanket, that I'd have hoped to list in the shoppe. But I've come down stairs many times and secretly seen my other half curled in it on the sofa! So I guess it's here to stay.

I've been wanting to share my new bag from a wonderful etsy shoppe ForestBound.
Alice knew just what I was looking for! A vintage mail bag, lined in antique blue ticking fabric. Isn't it wonderful? My goodness I can't say enough nice things about her bags. If your on the hunt for a good quality re-purposed tote, than please check out her shoppe. Her bags sell quickly so you must be quick ;)

I love it so, so much!!
Definitely my favorite bag in my closet!

OH!
and I almost forgot...
...look at Alice's packing skills.

incredibly pretty.

so good.

This Is Halloween! This Is Halloween!

2009-10-31T14:18:00.001-07:00

Halloween! Halloween!

I'll be having a relaxing night of pizza, scary movies and trick-or-treaters. Nothing big.

Wishing You a Safe and Fun Halloween Night Charming Readers!

Free?

2009-10-30T13:17:00.000-07:00

Came across this photo from a fellow blogger and thought it was adorable!
And
at Starbucks, no less.

Makes me smile.... I wanted to make you smile too!

:)

Shoppe Update {finally}

2009-10-29T21:36:00.000-07:00

A Mary Poppins Umbrella.

I didn't realize how long it's been since I've updated the shoppe!
Geez.... the days pass by so quickly!

Anyhow.... enclosed is a little peek of a few lovely things. I've spent the better part of the day updating, I was really behind. I think I listed something like 33 items.....PHEW!
That was too much to do all at one time and I will definitely work on not doing that again.

"Oh, my aching back!" {lol}
and fingers!

Now for your viewing pleasures:

1. Vintage Nativity Scene
2. Vintage Brass and Glass Case{sold}
3. Vintage Burberrys Wool Cloche
4. Set Of Vintage Brass Picture Frames

1. Clipboard With Bird Print
2. Lovely Group OF Giant Paper Clips
3. Vintage Mouse Planter
4. Vintage Glass Display Bubble {sold}

Very excited for the weekend! I'm going somewhere pretty special, in my book, on Sunday. I'll share more later ;)

It feels good having my shoppe more up-to-date though.

A good start to a weekend!

Silly Me.

2009-10-28T09:42:00.000-07:00

I'm just laughing at myself this morning.

My attire consists of flannel Jammie bottoms.thermal long sleeve shirt.
Gap down filled vest. no socks?eating a warm Croissant.drinking iced coffee?....sitting in front of my fireplace!

What's wrong with me?
{lol}

Happy Wednesday.

10 Reasons Why I'm Smiling!

2009-10-27T18:02:00.000-07:00

Windy-Cool today.
Homemade Turkey Black Bean Chili.
Hot Corn/Bread.
Fireplace a' Crackling.
Halloween/4 Days Away!
I Have A Four Day Weekend Coming!
New Cell/Phone-iPhone!
New Bag Coming In The Mail Via, Awesome Etsy Seller {I'll share later}.
A Clean House :)
Next-Sunday, A Favorite Swap Meet/Flea Market! Excited!

By Definition:

2009-10-20T17:34:00.000-07:00

tax·i·der·my

The art or operation of preparing, stuffing, and mounting the skins of dead animals for exhibition in a lifelike state.

So yeah.... I couldn't wait another day to share what I found today while thrifting.

I usually go thrifting on my days off, from my day job. But today{after work}.... I felt the urge for some relaxation and headed to my favorite store!

So before I share my finds with you. I know, I like weird things.... I can't help it, I'm most intrigued by the most extraordinary and Out-Of-The-Ordinary. I LOVE animals, though I am not a vegetarian. But nonetheless, I have always been an animal lover!

I've also been quite interested in Taxidermy, vintage Taxidermy. SO when I came across this guy today while shopping I just about jumped out of my knee highs ;)

WOW!

but wait there's more:

HOORAY!

but wait there's two more:

A Gaggle Of Army Ants!

A Vampire Bat!
Aren't they Fabulous!!!!!!!!!!

The girls that work at the store asked, "Are you a Teacher?"

My thoughts.... as I snatched him up, doing that "suspicious-looking-around-frantically-thrift-store-score" thing {I do that alot!}..... "Nope, I'm just a crazy woman who wants her house to look like the Museum Of Natural History!"
I'm not sure if there is a style called Creepy Vintage?
But I'm thinking these days, this is what I've been "into". Is there such a style or did I just make that up?

I so badly want to keep them for myself! On the other hand I've been thinking how wonderful they would be listed in my shoppe!

Oh me, oh my!
To keep or not to keep..... that is the Question!!!!!!!!

10-23-09 Update:
{This Taxidermy collection has decided to stay and live with us. Mr. Friend returned home the night I purchased them and instantly stated and I quote," COOL, you are NOT selling them....right?"}

Stew'in On A Monday

2009-10-19T17:03:00.000-07:00

Good evening my friends!

How are you?

I hope you are well!

I am getting SO lazy.... lately.... these cool, overcast mornings make me all warm and fuzzy inside I just wanna be in my Jammie's all day!
Do you get that way?

I have SO, so, so much to do!
I have months and months of treasures just waiting to make their debut in the shoppe. I have some lovely, lovely things to list too. I need some motivation, any suggestions? {lol}

I made a wonderful Chicken Stew this evening. I'm not BIG on cooking, I'm not really good at it, but I try. I am a stew and soup kinda gal...so when the weather permits, soup is all I crave!
Not sure if you visit the lovely and skillful cook , Alicia over at Posie Gets Cozy, I frequent her blog when I'm in the mood for some good ole home cookin'.

I can always count on her ;)

Surprisingly it came out great! And actually much easier than I thought. Of course I substituted Grand Biscuits for making and rolling my own dough {who has that kind of time!-lol}.

Here's the recipe, {YUMMY}!

Happy Monday!