Dime Store Thrift

The Shape Of A Year by Jean Hersey (Book Thrift)

2012-01-31T08:13:00.004-06:00

I have been thrifting a lot of books the past month. A LOT of books. Some of them for Memory Lane, some for Etsy, some for me to take up to the lake this summer and some that will be kept in my collection here.

Isn't it funny how thrifting finds come in waves? I am coming across tons of Children's books, New Fiction, Nonfiction and Cookbooks in abundance right now. From people clearing things out after Christmas, perhaps?

One of my favorites has been this book by Jean Hersey from the 60's "The Shape Of A Year". The woman knew how to enjoy the simple things in life and appreciate the things we (I) so often take for granted.

I really struggle with stopping and fully enjoying little moments...there is a to-do list of my very own making that often times becomes my obsession, trying to get things done and crossed off and then filled in with more things to get done. Not that there isn't a place for all that. But this book is reminding me, teaching me, to open my eyes to some things that shouldn't just be passed over, but fully savoured.

From what I can tell by online research, this book is now out of print...but if you come across it, buy it and read it.

Enjoy your day, Sonya

The Black Tote (AKA Thrift Karma Is Very Real)

2012-01-26T08:10:00.001-06:00

I made a list yesterday morning of things to do and errands to run. It is important that you see what is on the list:

One of the things on that list was to thrift a new (to me) tote. I was in need of a large tote to hold books going to and from the library.

Yes, I already own the perfect tote. Found at Target about 5 years ago. Black leather, roomy, lovely green liner. That tote on certain days needs to hold books going back and forth to the library and on other days needs to hold all of our Basketball game items along with snacks and Gatorade's and Bud's DS games and other activities for the days we were at Tournaments all day long. That tote is a hard working tote!

I found these ice packs at DollarTree of all places and they are WONDERFUL to have on hand when someone hurts a knee or elbow.

Lots and lots of bandages, lip balm, aspirin, cough drops and such.

Snacks...better than candy

I was always switching out things from the tote. And those things would just be piled on our dining room table until we got back. Piles of books and piles of medical supplies are not things I like to see on my dining room table. Purchasing a book tote had become a really intense need.

I dropped several bags off at Goodwill first thing yesterday of some outgrown kids winter coats and some more Studio items I was letting go of. Figuring someone would be able to use some of those craft supplies I just didn't have the desire to make anymore. (Which is a whole other post!)

From Goodwill I headed over to Memory Lane to drop a few things off at the booth. While there, I decided to do a quick run through and see if I could find anything that would work as a tote, either for our books or for our game bag. I had about 5 minutes so I was just walking quickly, looking left and right and pausing only when I would see handbags or book bags.

Imagine my surprise and then outright GLEE at finding a tote IDENTICAL to my wonderful black tote. Except it was BRAND NEW with the tags still on it...marked at $6.

Thrift Karma is real, my friends...It is real.

Enjoy your day, Sonya

Vintage Pyrex Thrift

2012-01-24T07:38:00.003-06:00

I had literally 20 minutes free time last evening to hit a thrift store and was happy to walk away with these:

They each hold 1 1/2 cups and are simply adorable Pyrex! They will be heading into the Etsy shop.

Enjoy your day, Sonya

Scenes From A Weekend

2012-01-23T08:39:00.001-06:00

--We cheered for 6 different Basketball Games (5 of Lu's and Bud's very first game)

--Went to the library and picked up some great reading

--Watched Callie watching it snow...and then snow some more (yay!)

--Made a huuuuuuuge batch of bean soup. There is not documentation of this. I dropped the Tupperware container. On the floor. In front of the fridge. Yes, it was full.

--Built a fort in the back room

--Flipped through some catalogs that arrived

--Purchased (finally) a set of rechargeable batteries. It is ridiculous the amount of batteries we go through so this might be the most sensible purchase of the year!

The kids are out of school today...planning on doing some shovelling, running to the post office to mail Etsy packages and making another batch of soup.

Enjoy your day, Sonya

700 Posts?!

2012-01-20T08:55:00.002-06:00

Actually, this post makes it 701. Wow. 701 posts of not all that much to say;) Thanks for coming along for the ride! It is wonderful to have like-minded friends all over the world.

The past few weeks have been filled with a whole lot of Studio Time...Mostly just rearranging, going through things and listing on Etsy. I love going down into the studio! Mostly to putter around. It is definitely my happy place. Unless it is too filled and I haven't been spending enough time putting sale items away or the glue bottles and glitter are all over the desk area with paper cuttings. The desk has been cleared off (for the most part, do not judge me) and this is the most space I have had since last fall.

Obviously, there is still a lot of moving around to do. And on that note, I am going to go fix a pot of tea and head back down for the day!

Enjoy your day and weekend, Sonya

January {Via Pinterest}

2012-01-13T07:52:00.002-06:00

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Are you on Pinterest yet??
Things you might realize about me after seeing these pics from my January Board:
--I want some snow here
--A blizzard might be sort of nice
--I like snow in January
--I am SO going to make faces on Hubby's car after the next snow...if we ever get any more
--I have a facination with Narnia
--And Lamp Posts
--Cocoa is important when it snows
--I need to make some more January Snow Wreaths!

Enjoy your day, Sonya

Bud's Harry Potter Surprise Party!

2012-01-12T08:03:00.003-06:00

Bud is now 7. MY BABY IS SEVEN! And is so into Harry Potter he can hardly contain himself. So when we decided to throw a little surprise party for him and a few close friends yesterday, it was quite easy to come up with a theme. Some streamers and balloons in Griffindor colors:

A cool sign painted by Lu:

And a scavenger hunt to get the party started:

--Wands were wooden dowels
--Toads and snakes were small plastic Target finds
--Dragon eggs were Easter eggs spray painted bright gold
--Stones were large beads
--Wizards cup was little trophy's found also at Target in their party section

Buds close friends Mommies are my close friends which makes it very easy to just relax and enjoy the party. The different items they found on their scavenger hunt went home with each child in their goodie bags, The potions class was part of the refreshments (7up and food coloring) and then cupcakes in the 'great hall' for treats. And then the kids just played hard while the Mom's had a chance to catch up. It was so much fun!

And now I need to get my newly 7 year old child off to school.

Enjoy your day, Sonya

Organizing Of Life

2012-01-09T07:46:00.001-06:00

The past week has been spent decluttering everything from clothes to drawers to emails to computer files to Pinterest to the storage area downstairs. A couple trips have been made to Goodwill, items packed away for Childrens Closet, goodies boxed up to take up to the cabin and lots of items are prepped and ready for Etsy. Its been a good ride!

I would like to focus on the Studio this week...I need to pull everything out of there and rearrange some furniture. Sounds like a fun week ahead and I am sure there will be forgotten treasures that will resurface!

Enjoy your day, Sonya

Welcoming 2012

2012-01-03T08:40:00.000-06:00

See ya 2011. So long. Don't bother coming around again. We are locking the door on you. (Except for the good parts.)

Finished putting all the Christmas decorations away yesterday and now the entire house feels fresh and clean and ready for what the New Year will bring. This week is going to be spent doing a bit more decluttering since I am realllly in the mood and as you well know, you gotta go with that when it hits.
Enjoy your day, Sonya

Valentines Day Wreaths!

2012-01-01T13:25:00.000-06:00

It is CRACKING ME UP how many times my little Valentines Day Wreaths have been pinned and repinned onto Pinterest.

Source: dimestorethrift.blogspot.com via Angie on Pinterest

Source: dimestorethrift.blogspot.com via James N Courtney on Pinterest

If you are interested in making your very own, just CLICK HERE to zip over to the original tutorial I made to make these lovely yummies for February 14th. I made a few different kinds last year for us, will show you those as soon as I get the house cleaned up. Today has been spent removing all Christmassy items and now everything is getting a good hard deep cleaning.

Enjoy your day, Sonya

Happy New Year! {Via Pinterest}

2011-12-31T06:00:00.000-06:00

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Enjoy your day, evening and New Year!
Sonya

Do You Know Where That One Recipe Is??

2011-12-30T15:14:00.002-06:00

Because I have NO idea where it is at.

One of my little projects the past few weeks has been to get my recipes in order. Mostly get rid of recipes I have never made and absolutely will NEVER make and to put together a cook book of our very favorites. So I could find exactly what I needed without a search of 8 or 9 different spots where the recipe might be hiding. Every Thanksgiving and Christmas I make something we refer to as "Dumplings with Sauerkraut". I made it at Thanksgiving, but do you think I could find it to make at Christmas?? It ended up being in a pile of post office receipts on top of my desk in the Studio. What??

Of course I started this project in the middle of getting ready for Christmas. Because that is SUCH A GOOD TIME OF YEAR TO START PROJECTS. It must have been just the soothing type of activity I needed, however, because I did get quite a bit done looking at it all over an afternoon. Mostly getting rid of double (triple...quadruple...) recipes for pumpkin muffins and chicken chili.

But then I put it all away and am now waiting patiently for a nice blizzard to take the clippings and recipe cards out again and organize. I also wanted to find out what recipes the rest of the family felt needed be tried or let go of.

I think if all my recipes were just in these 3 pictures, my life would be far less complicated. But there are more...far more. Will keep you posted.

Enjoy your day, Sonya

A Crafty Christmas

2011-12-29T09:03:00.001-06:00

I was quite excited to realize that my Niece, in the space of a few months, has become a crafter! She asked me if I has seen Pinterest yet and I don't think I have stopped squealing at her since. Christmas Eve was spent making these:

We realized after the fact, that we should have left the crayons in their wrappers. Hmmmm...

And then we drilled holes into cool wine bottles that were then filled with little twinkly lights! Finally we made wreaths. Wreaths! She bought a hot glue gun! She had been to the Salvation Army earlier that day and had a bag full of vintage Christmas ornaments! It was so exciting to share this with my 19 year old BFF, I mean, Niece. I, on occasion, have a bit of a tendency to get a wee bit mopey on Christmas Eve, missing my parents and siblings. Shocking, I know. But this helped so much to have an activity that kept all of us quite happy and busy.

There hasn't been a whole lot of thrifting this week with the kiddos home from school, but I do want to show you the Santa that found its way into my hands and heart at Goodwill late last week:

It is seriously large. And it lights up!

Enjoy your day, Sonya

Callie, Mr Giraffe and a Sale!

2011-12-28T09:15:00.000-06:00

Yes. Instead of doing anything on my list of Things To Get Done This Week, I am taking pictures of the cat and her new love. And seriously, now adorable are these two?!

In other important news, there is a 25% off sale going on until New Years in the ETSY shop as well as at the booth at Memory Lane...enjoy!
Sonya

Christmas 2011 Goodies:

2011-12-27T10:00:00.000-06:00

Welcome Back!
I didn't do a TON of baking/candy making this year (or any year for that matter) but I did make some standards:

Layer Bars

Chocolate Dipped Pretzels

Chex Mix without Nuts for Bud

Honey Bee Mix With Almonds

Really Spicy Pretzels

Things I did not make: Scotcharoos and Cut Out Sugar Cookies. I missed the scotcharoos terribly, but those cut out cookies bring me to tears whenever we have made them!

What do you make for Christmas goodies? Are there things that you SHOULD make, but simply cannot handle making with a joyful heart??

Enjoy your day, Sonya

Merry Christmas!

2011-12-24T07:34:00.002-06:00

My wish for you is for a beautiful holiday spent with your loved ones. I am taking the next few days to do just that! Be back here on Monday,
Sonya

Thrifting Christmas Week Is The BEST:

2011-12-23T07:19:00.000-06:00

Enjoy your day! Sonya

Teacher Gifts

2011-12-22T07:50:00.000-06:00

Teacher gifts can throw me for a loop some years. Usually we get something for the classroom and something for the teacher (s). Sometimes there is a bit of baking involved and sometimes there is a bit of crafting. This year Bud's teacher (who is a close friend) received a wreath. But when I saw THIS PROJECT from Suzonne (who would be one of my very best friends if she lived anywhere near me) Bud and I decided to break out the crafting tools one more time to create these:

I am LOVING this project. Will be on the lookout now for fab vintage buttons because we MUST MAKE MORE!
Enjoy your day, Sonya

Christmas Manger Set

2011-12-21T06:30:00.000-06:00

I have never seen one of these before! Made of heavy cardboard, it was fun to assemble. Unfortunately, it is missing a couple pieces, but thankfully none of the main ones.

Methinks this is a keeper for my own collection.
Enjoy your day! Sonya

Bud And Christmas

2011-12-20T08:19:00.002-06:00

I am loving all the holiday artwork that is coming home from school the past couple weeks...

And finding lists of Christmas Wishes...

And seeing him spread out on the dining room table making his own calendar because it is 'more creative' than just buying one already made.

Enjoy your day, Sonya

More Thrift Finds-Falalalalalalalala

2011-12-15T08:49:00.000-06:00

This is part of a set of 8 plates, but only 4 glasses. After standing there holding it for a couple minutes, I decided that seriously...how difficult would it be to stick some vintage green glasses in the center. I think I like that even better than the red plastic, yes?

I love him. Ilovehim, Ilovehim, Ilove him! And his little knitted stocking cap! Swoon.

This is the second one of these books I have picked up recently. Neither one of them have made it onto Etsy yet. Because I am really, really good at procrastinating. The best at it.

And I simply cannot walk away from vintage memory books. Also, not put on Etsy. Yet.

Enjoy your day! Sonya

Coffee Carafe

2011-12-14T07:53:00.001-06:00

I can't find my old trusty carafe. Which is annoying simply because this is the time of year that I use it the most! I also can't find my gravy boat, but that is whole other story.

It's not like I have a ton of cupboard space...It's not like I hoard kitchenware. Did I Goodwill it in a surge to get things simplified? I don't think so. I use the thing. Sometimes. I loved my carafe!

So I was pleased to find this one while out thrifting yesterday. It is heavy, the seal is excellent and its hardly been used from what I can tell. Actually, I love this one even more than I loved the other one, which was not vintage and a Target purchase.

Now if only I can find my gravy boat before Christmas.

Enjoy your day! Sonya

Christmas Pinterest

2011-12-12T07:41:00.002-06:00

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Enjoy your day! Sonya

Still Nesting...

2011-12-07T06:45:00.001-06:00

Our routine the last couple of days has been rawther relaxing. It would've been better if Bud had felt more like himself, but I have a sneaking suspicion it wouldn't have been quite so calm in our little basement nest.

He is feeling much better now and will be heading back to school. Thank you for your kind emails!

Enjoy your day and stay healthy,
Sonya

Nesting

2011-12-05T19:13:00.001-06:00

Bud is down today with a low grade fever and a Mama who kept him home to just sleep and watch DVR'd movies in our little basement nest of pillows and cozy blankets.

While he napped (several times) I managed to get some more goodies loaded into the Etsy shop, Yay! Here are some pics of what is still coming for tomorrow:

Hopefully tomorrow Bud will be back up and running around, ready for school. Otherwise, look for us in our little nest again.
Enjoy your evening! Sonya

Decorating For The Holidays

2011-11-30T08:16:00.001-06:00

The decorating has BEGUN! Actually, it was mostly done last Friday, but there is still a lot of moving around of things right now. I like to call this week the transition stage...decor moves from spot to spot until it looks 'at home'.

That line of lights going down the side of the mantle is driving me nuts. But waddya do??

Enjoy your day! Sonya

I Simply Cannot Keep It All...

2011-11-27T18:01:00.001-06:00

Oh My Goodness. I have a lot of Christmas decor. It is time to start letting some things go. We decorated the house on Friday and somehow ended up with a whole huge box of things that we had put out last year but have no room for this year. How did that happen??

And don't even get me STARTED on what my studio looks like...a bit like a Christmas scene exploded and there are treasures everywhere on every single surface. And no where to display a lot of it.

I love me a dime store nativity, but if I don't have room to put them all out and they are in storage in the studio...that just doesn't seem right. So I need to pick a favorite (ok, 2) and let all the others go. Or buy a bigger house. I kid!

So if I do say so myself, there are going to be some fabulous goodies heading into the Etsy shop this coming week.

Enjoy your evening,

Sonya

Have A Blessed Thanksgiving:

2011-11-24T09:30:00.000-06:00

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Enjoy your day, Count every single Blessing and Eat your favorite yummies! Sonya

The White Wreaths

2011-11-23T07:55:00.001-06:00

Winter Wreath

These are the latest wreath creations that are heading to my booth at Memory Lane. They both are made using a white, almost iridescent tinsel wreath. Both really POP!

Speaking of Memory Lane, I had a fellow thrifter/seller ask me how to make these...not a big deal as I've done tutorials on this, as you all know, the secret is in the vintage balls. But I was surprised walking past her booth yesterday to see her selling the same creations. At the same flea market that I am selling them in. At half the price that I am selling mine for. Which is sort of not cool.

After the loud involuntary noise that escaped my body upon seeing them (it sort of sounded like a loud "WHAT?!?!?!") I am letting it go. Mostly because mine are still cooler. And it serves me no purpose to get mad.

Bright Christmas

The colors in this one are just so happy! I have one more wreath I am planning on making this year and then will be focusing on some other Christmas crafting. With glitter.

Enjoy your day! Sonya

A Week Of Thanksgiving

2011-11-21T09:09:00.001-06:00

Good Morning! Thought I would pop in here before I head off to the grocery store for our Thanksgiving Feast. Shopping the week of Thanksgiving is always a bit of an adventure since everyone else is also purchasing their groceries and the aisles can be such a bumper car ride.

But I am going into this adequately rested and hydrated so should be able to manage playing nicely with the other shoppers.

Several of you have asked about Thanksgiving decorations and I thought I would show you the extent of that this year...The Mantle and the Coffee Table.
On top of the mantle from left to right: Thrifted tea light candle holders, a pilgrim and his wife thrifted from Goodwill and made in Japan, a pumpkin scented candle, thrifted Eddie Bauer clock, Cornucopia and paper machie fruit all from Hobby Lobby clearance, Gurley candles of pilgrims, pilgrim kids and turkeys and a Thanksgiving plaster scene from Hobby Lobby clearance.

Below is some cool metal balls with leaf designs (Hobby Lobby) and pine cones from Michael's in a pottery bowl.
It's not a ton of decor, but it is simple and festive.

How are you decorating for the holiday?
Enjoy your day, Sonya

Getting There

2011-11-18T09:41:00.001-06:00

Thank you.

For the prayers, emails, texts, flowers, meals, kindness, help with getting the kids where they need to be. We are all so grateful to have such a wonderful network in times like these. Even just hearing other people's stories of gall bladders is bonding. Seems more people have had them out than still have them in!

This has been quite a year and you don't realize how precious the wonderful people who are surrounding you until they do these acts of kindness that just bring you to tears of gratitude. And thank God for amazing surgeons and good hospitals.

Each day is better. Will be glad to be in more of a routine by next week.

Enjoy your day, your weekend,
Sonya

Framed Prints and Interupptions

2011-11-14T13:04:00.001-06:00

Found this at our local Goodwill just this past week and it fits our current fascination with New Orleans and Jazz. It is now residing happily on the wall in our back room. $4.

Thank you for hanging with me during this odd year of health issues...First the interesting month of January and then the thrill ride of August. Now my body seems to be hell bent on having my gall bladder removed. Actually, I am in so much pain, I would happily remove it myself. So that being said, am taking a wee bit of a break from Etsy and Memory Lane and my fabulous wreath making to get this taken care of and get back on track for the holidays. And from what I have heard, it is a pretty quick recovery time, so shall be back here before you know it.

Enjoy your day! Sonya

Wreath Week Additions...

2011-11-10T08:49:00.001-06:00

"Let It Snow"

"Santa Claus Is Coming To Town"

Wreath Week Has Begun!

2011-11-07T07:33:00.004-06:00

Enjoy your day! Sonya

Was Heading To Target But Stopped at Goodwill First:

2011-11-04T07:53:00.000-05:00

You remember I needed some more soup bowls on Halloween? I found them at our local Goodwill. Vintage, in perfect condition and they were 50 cents a piece...as much as I love shopping Target, this was a much more satisfying purchase. Enjoy your day! Sonya

Christmas Mushy

2011-11-03T09:11:00.003-05:00

These are the kind of finds that make me squeal. Sometimes I can keep it inside. Other times I am sure there are nearby shoppers that are startled to hear the Squeeeeeaaaal!

I find this stuff quite often. But in the box?

That was so adorably marked down to 10 cents?

This morning I am headed out to see what some of my fav thrift stores have displayed now that Halloween has come and gone. A lot of them wait until November to start putting out Christmas decor, except for a few select who have Christmas decor out year round.

Enjoy your day! Sonya

He's Got The Moves Like Jagger (or Kit Fisto)

2011-11-01T08:06:00.000-05:00

We take our Halloween very seriously around here. And when a certain 6 year old requests his 14 year old sister to do some facepainting, well that sister takes her paintbrush in hand and transforms her brother into a Star Wars Jedi. Who has some serious Jedi moves:

I am so not in the mood to take down Halloween decor today, but will most likely do so anyway. One step closer to getting the house all glittered up for the Holidays, right?

I like to leave the pumpkins out and have picked a few items up the last few years to make it look festive. But after all the Halloween decor, it still looks a little bare until we decorate for Christmas. Need to figure out a way to fill in those areas that need a little something.

Enjoy your day! Sonya

Happy Halloween!

2011-10-31T09:31:00.002-05:00

---Hubby and I had to divide and conquer the other day with the kids...Lu and Hubby both needed to get some clothing while Bud and I headed out to the Railroad Museum:

Where they had trains, pumpkin painting AND a petting zoo:

It was a blast! And how seriously adorable is that tiny one?? I want one to go with the chickens that I don't have. Ahem.

---I put jewelry at Memory Lane...and it is FLYING off the shelves! It is always such a good feeling when someone else likes what you make by hand.

---I've waited to buy chocolate for Halloween trick or treating tonight. How bad is it that I will give the chocolate out at the very last? Smarties, tootsie pops and laffy taffy...who cares? But I WANT MY CHOCOLATE. This is why I needed to wait until today. I have a wee bit of a problem, yes?

---Good friends are coming over tonight for our annual Trick or Treating get-together with the traditional Chicken Enchilada Soup and cheap red wine. The guys take the kids out, the girls stay and hand out candy. It is a win/win.

---Speaking of the soup, I need to find some great bowls today so am off to do a bit of thrifting!

What do you like to hand out for Halloween treats?

Enjoy your day, Sonya

My Latest Happy's

2011-10-30T09:45:00.000-05:00

Before I head back into the studio, I thought you would like to know that Wreath Week has been officially moved to next week...hammers and breakable vintage ornaments simply do not do well in the same room together.

Perfect reminder for me

This makes me think of Lu when she went through her princess phase

I LOVE Al Stewart

For my BFF

For Lu

Another good reminder for me

And to wear to the kids' games

Enjoy your day! Sonya

The Craft Attention Span Of A Gnat

2011-10-25T09:01:00.000-05:00

This week was supposed to be Wreath Week on my dining room table. Instead, it turned into "OH! Let's make pendants instead!!"

I had to stop by Hobby Lobby to pick up a couple things and wandered down the jewelry aisle. For 2 hours. I am not even kidding you.

Remember my whole soldering experience? I am thinking I didn't give it enough time and energy. I should've stuck with it! Tried harder!

Actually, it was an enjoyable afternoon figuring this stuff out. I always do things the way I THINK they should be done and then after doing it, google what I should PROBABLY have done in the first place. So I know now that I do need a steel block to pound on. Not the basement coffee table. And oxidising is important. As well as steel wool. And I need a whole lot more vintage ephemera.

The pendant I made represents Lu's school (Go West!) and I think I want to foof it up a bit with school colors using a green glass bead.

I am guessing that Wreath Week has been delayed by a day or two.

Enjoy your day! Sonya

Etsy and Memory Lane

2011-10-21T09:20:00.000-05:00

I have actually been productive this week! Staying focused! GETTING THINGS DONE AROUND HERE!

The Etsy shop is getting filled, which is exciting to get into my groove with listing.

Plus, Ruth and I are going all out at Memory Lane and its been fun to drop things off every day and fluff up the booth:

One of the best parts about sharing this booth is the variety we both bring to display.

And now, back into the studio to see what will be created over the weekend!

Enjoy your day, Sonya

October On Pinterest

2011-10-19T08:54:00.004-05:00

Oh Pinterest, How I love you! How you can distract me within seconds and fill me with ideas and knowledge. I shall love you forever and ever...

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I had fun playing and am now back to going through goodies in the studio!

Enjoy your day, Sonya

C'mon, just give me a nudge...

2011-10-13T08:08:00.003-05:00

I NEED to get stuff listed in Etsy that were supposed to be listed a long time ago...I NEED to put more items out at Memory Lane (there is a shocking amount of things just flying off the shelves there, yay!)...I NEED to go through the Studio and Stockroom and get it more organized for the coming season...

Thankfully, I am filled with energy this morning and shall attempt to get all this and more done today. Until I crash and burn around 11am, right?

In the meantime, I leave you with a picture of the rest of the goodies found at the church sale last week:

Enjoy your day! Sonya

An Unassuming Small Book:

2011-10-12T08:05:00.001-05:00

That ended up being someones recipe book. I was happy to have found it at a church sale, yet sort of sad. Did someone not know what was in this tiny book? Was there no one to pass it on to?
Those recipes are classic and I am now the keeper of the small handwritten recipe book.

Enjoy your day! Sonya

Santa Baby

2011-10-10T07:40:00.000-05:00

What is better than a Santa Mug from Japan?

Eight Santa Mugs!!

Enjoy your day, Sonya

One Of Those Perfect Picks

2011-10-01T13:16:00.006-05:00

Every so often I come across the perfect kind of sale. Yesterday held one of those in store as I headed out to thrift.

Actually, I don't think I have ever been to a sale quite like this.

It was a beautiful day, a picturesque farm, they were kind sellers, a barn FULL of fabulous yummies, unbelievable pricing, free kittens (no we did not take one) and offers of all the pumpkins we could carry.

It is going to make all other sales pale in comparison for a long, long time. I actually tried to hit a couple sales following this sale and walked away from all of them so disappointed.

I wanted to go back to the first sale.

It is going to stay with me for a loooooong time. And the best part? They are only halfway through going through the house...there are more sales to come! Yes, yes I will be going back.

Enjoy your day! Sonya

I have a booth, yes a booth, it's a BOOTH!

2011-09-28T07:50:00.000-05:00

(sung to the tune of "I'm the map" from Dora the Explorer. Everything needs a theme song around here. You should hear my "I made an Etsy Sale" rap, it is a-ma-zing. Especially with the interpretive dance!)

I am thrilled to pieces to announce I am heading back to Memory Lane, Baby! October 1st...which means I need to go back into the studio/store room to do some more tagging.

Enjoy your day! Sonya

Where Was I?

2011-09-26T09:04:00.000-05:00

Hubby and I just celebrated our 20 year Anniversary...I am amazed at how the years have just flown by. Being he is such a fab man, he whisked me away for a romantic weekend. Since it was a milestone year, he really outdid himself! We stayed at a Grand Hotel:

It was very art deco and cool!

The Lobby:

Where we had wine every evening before deciding where to go for supper:

This might be the most gorgeous bathroom I have ever been in:

Seriously? This pool? The ceiling? Yes! It was like swimming in a spa.

Our concierge (I love saying the word concierge!) told us about the music at this place:

And we did a whole lot of hunting and a whole lot of gathering...

Best. Anniversary. Ever.

And now I am off to ship an Etsy package all the way to France....oooh, lala!

Enjoy your day, Sonya

All Sorts Of Stuff:

2011-09-23T08:15:00.005-05:00

It froze last night. All the tomatoes left in the garden had to come out whether they were ready to be picked or not. Runrunrunrunrunrunrun!! She did great, coming in at just over 14 minutes.

I seriously love this box. It is in the Etsy shop along with some other fun items that were added this week.

I finally found this mix after looking for it for years! It was in a magazine article that I had clipped and saved (of course). It is SO GOOD. I love the taste of lemon in my water and this is absolutely delicious. The orange is pretty yummy, too!

Enjoy your weekend, Sonya

Buying For The Packaging

2011-09-21T10:01:00.001-05:00

To the wonderful person who saved their garland in this fabulous box...

I Thank You.

Something cool will be made from it.

Maybe not today...maybe not tomorrow...

But at SOME POINT this crafting season, something will be made from it.

Enjoy your day! Sonya

I Have Hit The Mother Sale Of Vintage Wrapping Paper:

2011-09-16T14:39:00.003-05:00

I went to a church sale this morning and nearly PASSED OUT when I saw the tables and tables and tables of Vintage Christmas. There were rolls of wrapping paper and a small sign that read all full rolls were a specific price but sheets of giftwrap were priced individually.

Sheets? Where were the sheets? Well, digging down below the gift bags, I found the sheets. Nearly 5 lbs of vintage giftwrap! Squeal with me!

I love using gift wrap to package up the treasures I ship on Etsy, so all this is a wonderful addition to my shipping materials.

Enjoy your day! Sonya

What I Do:

2011-09-15T09:14:00.002-05:00

Every Wednesday this month we head out to a field by a school...

We watch our kids line up...and then (to Bud's extreme excitement) we wait to hear an actual gun shot to get our girls running...

And then we scream like nuts along the side.

Oh wait. Just me?

I am a screamer at these things. Shouting "GOGOGOGOGOGO!" much to my own embarrassment when the meet is done.

I shout on everyone's child who runs for West. I shout on our friends on other school teams. I have yelled at kids I don't even know as they are going past..."GOGOGOGOGO!!"

I am one of those parents.

There aren't even pics of the end when the girls are full on sprinting because I am jumping up and down at that point and it is hard to take pictures when you are jumping up and down. And yelling.

Geeeeez.

And on that note, I am off to the dungeon to take a good hard look at all those Rubbermaid's with the post it notes on the side that read "ETSY--List In September".

Enjoy your day! Sonya

I am not one to scrapbook...

2011-09-13T07:56:00.001-05:00

I love the idea of scrap booking.

I do.

It's just that I know myself and I would totally want to redo those same scrapbooks that I spent time and money on, within 5 years as they come out with new things and my tastes change. It is just easier for me to stick pics in albums. Not that I am even that far. Right now our pictures are mostly stacked inside a big trunk.(Note to self: you gotta deal with that trunk at some point.)

So even though I don't use them 'properly' I really love walking the scrap booking aisles and seeing all the fabulous stuff there is to play with. All the stickers and borders and pens and glitter and add on's...it makes me happy.

I was excited yesterday when I found these journals. And then found some borders to dress them up. Not really creating, just assembling. It was an enjoyable way to spend the afternoon. So much so that I was wishing I had a few more to play around with.

I can think of so many uses for these! This grouping is going to be used as a gift for a girlfriend. Which means I need to get more journals to dress up!

Are you a scrap booker? Do you use photo albums? Or do you also have a trunk stuffed with pics you need to deal with?

Enjoy your day, Sonya

Metal Picnic Love

2011-09-10T11:08:00.001-05:00

The neighbor-lady-down-the-street sale was Meh. Found nothing, there didn't seem to be vintage stuff like there was during her last sales. Next time.

But finding THIS at another sale made up for it. After I get the sharpie marker buffed off.

Enjoy your day! Sonya

Church Sale Christmas

2011-09-09T11:50:00.001-05:00

Last year I went to a church sale and was bummed to see some stuff walking out the door that I would have loved to see come home with ME. This year, I was unable to hit the sale when it opened yesterday. How hard can it be to talk kids into going thrifting after school? Pretty hard. So I put on my Mom face and decided to just drop by the sale this morning after getting everyone where they needed to be. I assumed everything pretty cool would already be gone.

I was wrong:

These are totally inspiring me to make more Christmas wreaths!

The other happy today is my neighbor lady down the street is having her twice-a-year fabulous yard sale. That starts at 4. Which means the kids are just going to have to put on their game faces and go with me, bahaha!
Enjoy your day,
Sonya

Another Day, Another Clock

2011-09-07T07:46:00.005-05:00

Sometimes, these thrift finds come in waves. I found a bunch of baby scales about the same time last Spring and now I seem to be coming across clock after clock.

This one does not work, either. So it shall be glittered up as part of a holiday display.

But the question I am asking myself...Should it be glittered for Halloween like the other one? Or should I start thinking ahead to Christmas?

Enjoy your day! Sonya

Tuesday, September 6th

2011-09-06T07:50:00.004-05:00

I hope you had a wonderful Labor Day weekend, relaxing and fun and time spent with those you love.

We brought out our giant box of accumulated thrifted Rescue Heroes. It seriously is a huge Rubbermaid. Bud went through a Rescue Hero phase starting at the age of 2. People were getting rid of their Rescue Heroes by the bagful. And we definitely took advantage of that! His collection of 'guys' grew and grew.

Now, we only bring them out a few times a year for a big reunion with earthquakes, hurricanes and moon missions to make things exciting for the heroes.

We needed the guys in the front room most of the day on Saturday, because in the back room, we were busy painting the walls...we went from a deep red to a chocolate brown.

I LOVE THIS COLOR!

How did you spent your Labor Day Weekend?

Enjoy your day! Sonya

Getting My Glitter On For Halloween

2011-08-30T07:26:00.004-05:00

You may remember the Walk Of Shame I made last month after breaking a clock. My plans were to glitter it in Christmas colors...but after playing around in the studio, decided to go with more of a fall theme:
I am extremely pleased with how this turned out:

Love me some glitter.

Enjoy your day! Sonya

These Are A Few Of My Favorite Things...

2011-08-29T07:53:00.000-05:00

Still in love with the tiny stuff. This itty bitty find reminds me of Christmas and obviously was given out during the holiday season as customer appreciation gifts:

That when you open reveals a teeny tiny pencil! Love.

This metal ruler is wonderful. And it was used often from the looks of it.

And a not-so-tiny metal cake frosting spreader. That would work well as a cake slicer, too!

Find anything fab over the weekend?

Enjoy your day! Sonya

Thrifting Groove

2011-08-27T13:08:00.000-05:00

Well, I am definitely getting back into a thrifting groove this week. After running a few necessary errands each morning, I had time to stop at several old haunts to see what's new since I last darkened their doorsteps. And there were several great things that came right on home with me!

That being said...By 1:00 each day, I was tapped out. So yes, I am feeling much, much better. And yes, I realize I can't just jump back into everything with both feet. Cause the body says HALT when it is ready for me to be done.

Thankfully, I had not halted before finding this piece at Memory Lane. Never really thought of myself as an Angel Collector, but this piece is excellent. I am LOVING the crumpled tin foil in the frame and the fab vintage plastic frame itself. The picture just glows! Haven't decided yet if it will be a part of our Christmas decor or if it will head on to Etsy.

We shall see.

Enjoy your day! Sonya

Acts of Kindness {Meals}

2011-08-22T07:35:00.005-05:00

Today, I drive! I have been waiting for this day for two whole weeks.
Nearly giddy with the excitement and joy of going wherever I would like to go, seeing things I haven't seen for weeks, perhaps months! I shall let you know what I find.

This showed up on our doorstep last week from my next door neighbor, Ruth. Right about the time I was wondering what on earth we were going to eat for lunch that day.

Since the surgery, we've had everything from this gorgeous sandwich platter to frozen homemade dinners to the best chicken tortilla soup I have ever eaten to lasagna to deli chicken with the yummiest cheesy potatoes. And chocolate. Because chocolate helps you heal faster. Lots and lots of chocolate. From surprise lunches, like the above all the way to my girlfriend who called and asked what kind of takeout we would like her to drop off. Every single meal was filled with kindness and love and we were all so glad to have them.

It makes me realize I need to step it up a bit more when someone is in need. We have been on the receiving end of kindness for the past few weeks and I am eager to pay that forward.

Are you good about taking meals to people? What do you like to bring?

Enjoy your day, Sonya

First Day Of School {2011} and Callie

2011-08-18T09:50:00.007-05:00

Wow. Quiet House.

She is missing them, too.

Enjoy your day! Sonya

Happy Holiday WNAX Radio 570

2011-08-17T23:59:00.000-05:00

A few weeks ago I was clearing out some boxes in the studio and came across a large one marked RADIO.

This is the Box O' Memories I have been toting around for the last...hmmmm...11 years. Since I retired from radio to raise my little ones. One who is nearly 14. Which is a whole other post of freak out, so let's move past that little nugget of panic for me and zip right back to the box of Radio Stuff.

We all have those boxes of our history. Things we want to hold onto and get out every once in a while and sift through and then close back up for a few years until you get the urge again.

The Radio Box was filled with over 10 years of my memories of WNAX as well as over 40 years of my Dad's. He did everything from write copy, to announcing, to holding the title of GM for a time. But what he enjoyed the most and did the longest over his career in radio was selling advertising. So there is a whole lotta advertising materials in this box.

Every time I was done looking through all these papers of memories, there was a pesky little humming in the back of my mind that I should find a way to keep some of it out, to display and enjoy.

Which is exactly what I ended up doing! I typically have Christmas on the brain year round. As soon as we wrap up the holiday season, I am thinking ahead to the next December and what to give, display, make. So when I saw this old advertising gloss of the Happy Holiday WNAX Radio Show, I knew it would be framed and hanging on my wall in a few months.

The frame was found for 25 cents at a thrift store and is a great avocado green color from the 60s...plastic-y and perfect for this ad.

Old friends we knew, spent time with and loved are smiling down.

I am so glad to have found a way for just one of those sheets to come out and be a part of our decorating this Christmas.

(And WNAX--If you would like to recreate this show, I can make myself available the month of December...)

Enjoy your day! Sonya

Bud: Guest Blogger

2011-08-16T11:00:00.000-05:00

Today, I have a special Guest Blogger: Bud! I handed him my camera last evening while he was playing in the yard and this is what he showed me through his camera lens.

Hi Bud! Thanks for taking the time out of our busy schedule to show me around the yard!

Hi Mom!
These tomatoes I picked fresh from our garden.

This pepper has been growing a long time from a seed and is almost ready to pick.

This stepping stone, I made at my nature camp. We step on in when we are doing our picking.

These are tomato buds from our tomatoes. I had to scrouch down to take these ones.

When I was up by my tree house I saw these plants and thought I might stop and take a picture of them.

This is a picture of our rock garden. It was hard to take this one because the sprinkler was going and I didn't want the camera to get wet.

This was on our patio. These are my Dads red flowers we planted last month. There are 2 of these, but this one looked better than the other.

There wasn't much more in the backyard so I went out front and these bushes and the flowers from the flower box were there.

This was my shadow. My Mom thought it was cute. And I like it, too.

This was in the backyard again. I thought it was nice so I scrouched down by it, focused and took a picture once again.

Great job Bud! I like seeing things through your eyes. And you are a good scrouch-er. Would you like to guest blog for me again sometime?

Sure, Sonya! I would surely do this again!

You can call me Mom.

Giggle.

Enjoy your day! Sonya

Care To Join Me?

2011-08-15T09:14:00.004-05:00

I am bored.

BoredboredboredboredBORED!

So this post may be a bit boring. This is your heads up.

My coffee tastes good. Let's take a picture of that!

Can't drive for another week yet. Which means zero thrifting. Which is sad because my blog is called Dime Store THRIFT.

But, I am feeling healthy, so that is excellent. Good enough to, you know, leave the house and go do something.

Like shopping. For cool vintage yummies. That I am certain are out there right at this very moment and someone else is scooping them up and cackling and saying to themselves "I bet Sonya would LOOOOOVE this!! Too bad she is unable to drive and find all these treasures that are now mine, mine, mine!! BAHAHAHAHAHAAAAAA!!"

Now I just feel anxious. And a bit paranoid.

Enjoy your day!
Sonya of Dime Store Let's-Just-Hang-Out-For-Another-Week-Or-So

Put One Foot In Front Of The Other...

2011-08-13T17:24:00.000-05:00

The look on Callie's face made me chuckle when I came around the corner...

"Hey...you OK?"

"Ummm...guys...she is up...she is walking TOWARDS ME"

I am home, safe and sound and resting comfortably! Thank you from the bottom of my heart for your prayers and emails. They all come back to you thousandfold. We did the surgery back in Yankton since that is where my beloved Dr Ferrell does his best work. The surgery center attached to the hospital is excellent and was a good experience.

Driving the hour back to Sioux City on Wednesday? Not so much. Since then my days have fallen into a predictable routine...Breakfast and nap, shower and nap, lunch and nap, supper that someone has dropped off followed by a nice nap before bedtime. Each day involves less napping, thank goodness, because I am bored out of my mind and it does feel wonderful to do tiny activities through out the day. Even though the activities make me sleepy. Geez.

Lu and Bud start school this week. I could just cry that our summer vacation is over! But am trying to keep it together because that would only mean I would need another nap and for the love of pete, I do NOT want another nap.

I did put the Dime Store Thrift ETSY shop back online and have really good intentions to begin filling it for fall and the holidays. I had thrifted some really fab things over the summer that have been destined to hit the shop when the season arrived...and from the look on the calendar, the season has arrived!

Regular blogging will resume on Monday.

Enjoy your day! Sonya

A Bit Of A Blog Break...

2011-08-05T20:30:00.000-05:00

Heading in for surgery next Monday. Why does the term routine surgery frighten me? Is there really any surgery that is routine, truly? Another reason never, ever, ever to Google. All prayers being accepted at this time.

I should be back at home, lets say, Thursday-ish. But am uncertain as to when I am going to be back online...a week or two? I won't be thrifting for at least a few weeks after that. So you just get to listen to me babble about home front stuff in the meantime.

Be good, be safe and talk to you soon!
Sonya

Bud's Mozzarella Salad

2011-08-03T18:59:00.002-05:00

Teaching my youngest well...

Tomatoes and basil straight out of the garden! I swear this might be the best part of August.

Enjoy your day! Sonya

Everything Old Is New Again

2011-08-02T09:45:00.004-05:00

This quilt was on a bed while I was growing up:

I vividly remember taking it off my bed at the cabin 10 years ago and replacing it with one that was more floral.

I found it in the top of my closet this past week, folded tightly away, almost as if I could make it disappear since it was obviously so not cool.

I cannot even begin to tell you how excited I was to see it again and how glad I am to have it in use!

Enjoy your day! Sonya

Summer Wrap Up

2011-07-31T20:02:00.000-05:00

The past week was our family vacation, which we took at the lake. School is starting soon...too soon. So we savored every.single.minute before the kids get busy with their fall activities again.

Do you see the double rainbow?!

That always makes me think of this guy. So of course I was weeping and asking what this all means. I love that guy!

Enjoying the lake:

Betsy and Tacy houses in Mankato:

Best Malts Ever.

Stellas!

Local candy store:

Zorbas on Otter Tail Lake. Pizza with a view!

Split Rock Park in Garretson, SD

Neighbors pool when we returned home. It is still so HOT here. God Bless good neighbors!

I like to think that I will be back to thrifting and adding to the etsy shop this week. We'll see.

Enjoy your day! Sonya

Christmas In July {Via Pinterest}

2011-07-25T19:22:00.003-05:00

Love Pinterest. Love it! Here are some Christmas goodies that I am hoping to thrift at some point....

Source: etsy.com via Sonya on Pinterest

Enjoy your day! Sonya

Vintage Back To School Thrift

2011-07-20T08:35:00.002-05:00

First of all, thrilled to PIECES I had some time to thrift yesterday. Second of all...I have been wanting a paint box like this since I was, oh, 7 years old!
Third of all, it has been virtually unused.

So I had to give myself a star for the find. Actually 4 boxes of various stars.

Enjoy your day!
Sonya

When It's Too Hot To Cook...

2011-07-19T08:46:00.003-05:00

This was the extent of our supper. Rip a loaf of french bread and spread. It was delicious.

Enjoy your day! Sonya

Let It Snow, Let It Snow, Let It Snow....

2011-07-18T08:38:00.000-05:00

Oh C'mon man...
Enjoy your day...Drink lots of fluids! Sonya

The Walk Of Shame

2011-07-16T12:30:00.003-05:00

Say hello to my new clock. The clock that had a small knob on the side of it...that I snapped off before my brain could stop my fingers from twisting it to see if it worked. Of course it didn't work! It was a decoration on a plastic clock!

So I did the walk of shame to the front of Memory Lane and purchased it.

Fortunately, I have been eyeing it for several weeks and for $6, breaking it just sort of prodded me along. It's going to get glittered as a Christmas piece!

Have you made the walk of shame after breaking something?

Enjoy your day,
Sonya

Christmas In July

2011-07-06T07:57:00.006-05:00

As you know, I am always on the look out for Christmas. No matter what time of year...when you come across it, you need to pick it up. You're not in the mood? Well, you GET in the mood. (we quote Seinfeld alot around here)

The first item found yesterday was this plastic Rudolph that will be added to my plastic reindeer collection. I won't stop at a herd.

Then there was this tiny box of a pewter Nativity set. How sweet is this?

And last, but certainly not least:

Several large illustrations that will be framed and placed lovingly on the wall at Christmastime.

Aren't they fab?

Enjoy your day! Sonya

Booth Envy

2011-07-05T07:40:00.003-05:00

My friend R (say it like a pirate, Arrrrr!) has a booth at Memory Lane. I do not have a booth at Memory Lane. At the moment.

I think it is when the acquired pieces all start to pile up a bit and wishing I had a space to pass the treasures on to a new owner. Yes, there is Etsy. But then there are items that are just too big to ship. Well...not too big, but I certainly don't want to deal with shipping them.

Such as this sweet little ride:

A 70's kick and go scooter!

R (Arrrrrr) was kind enough to let me stick it in his booth last week and Sunday called to tell me it was already sold. Yes! Fist in the air, baby!

Enjoy your day, Sonya

Hot and Humid

2011-07-01T09:58:00.001-05:00

Remember how I spent the winter telling you I would not complain about the heat and humidity come summer time?

I lied.
We've been inside a shade/blinds/curtain's-pulled-down darkened home with the air conditioning ramped up. Sometimes we splash around our next-door neighbors pool desperately trying to cool off. Neighbors with pools are priceless.

But Callie...poor Callie cannot swim. And she wears a fur coat.

We have family coming in to celebrate Saturday In The Park and will be with the rest of the family for the 4th of July. What are your holiday weekend plans?

Enjoy your day! Sonya

A little bit of this...a little bit of that...

2011-06-27T09:31:00.005-05:00

There hasn't been much thrifting the last few days so I am living vicariously through my bloggy friends who seem to find the best Christmas goodies! I left threatening jealous comments to their posts. My work here is done.

So the kids and I were back in Yankton last week and of course had to go out to the dam to see all the water coming through those gates:

It was overwhelmingly powerful.

Our caterpillar turned into a beeaauuutiful butterfly:

What I am reading:
Finished it and didn't looooove the ending, but still was glad to have read it...the rest of the book was great!

Enjoy your day, Sonya

Home Body --Pinterest--

2011-06-24T08:27:00.004-05:00

Have you discovered Pinterest yet? I am going to keep asking you till you just do it!

I seriously love this kitchen. Seriously.

Source: room-galleries.myhomeideas.com via Sonya on Pinterest

I am in love with this house and it may simply be for the porch. Who am I kidding...I love the house in its entirety.

Source: hgtv.com via Sonya on Pinterest

And it has a matching dog house. Are you KIDDING ME? I would get a dog. I promise.

Source: hgtv.com via Sonya on Pinterest

And this bathroom...mostly for the colors and that tub.

Source: hgtv.com via Sonya on Pinterest

And THIS pantry. Yes.

Source: houzz.com via Sonya on Pinterest

With a chicken coop.

Source: heatherbullard.typepad.com via Sonya on Pinterest

I love these daydreams!

Enjoy your day, Sonya

Summer, summer, summertime...

2011-06-23T07:46:00.000-05:00

Here we are...late June! I have started writing out our want-to-do-over-the-summer list, a wee bit later than I normally do, but this has not exactly been a 'normal' summer.

What is on your wish list?

Enjoy your day! Sonya

Playing with Paper Dolls

2011-06-20T08:40:00.000-05:00

I made a mistake while thrifting. I know, I know...it doesn't seem possible, but I did.

These paper doll folders were just sitting there waiting for me. I didn't check in the inside items very well. I just assumed the dolls were in there. But when I got home and spread it out on the table this is what I found:

THAT is not Lamb Chop!

I also bought this paper doll folder:

No Linda, but there were these two lovely ballerinas in the folder.

The plans were to put them on Etsy. Now what?

Enjoy your day!Sonya

Scales, scales everywhere!

2011-06-17T09:49:00.007-05:00

This is sorta getting weird. This is officially the 3rd baby scale I have come across in the last few months!

I love how each of the scales have different coloring...

And the mint green on this one is awesome!

It will be heading to Etsy over the weekend.

For Happier Calves

2011-06-16T08:02:00.000-05:00

I came across this glass...shall we call it a Swanky Swig? And had to have it.

I like to offer wine in glasses like these.

That calf does look pretty happy!

2011-06-13T09:57:00.005-05:00

Have you explored Pinterest yet??

Source: lisaleonardonline.com via Sonya on Pinterest

Source: salad-in-a-jar.com via Sonya on Pinterest

Source: polyvore.com via Sonya on Pinterest

1--love this idea as well as the sheer SIZE of it!
3--FAB idea for healthy eating
4--love this look!

You can thank me later. You know...after you resurface from making your own pinboard.

You have a little something on your chin...

2011-06-10T07:44:00.005-05:00

I really like this piece. But I am not certain it 'goes' in my kitchen or dining room. So it is moving on to Etsy. Unless I can talk Hubby into a remodel of the kitchen?

Whiiiiiiiiiine and Meals and Caterpillars

2011-06-08T07:44:00.001-05:00

It. Is. So. Hot. Brain melting hot. 100 degree hot. I-don't-wanna-go-outside-until-it-cools-down on Friday hot.

I dusted off my crock pot Monday night to make Chicken Picante without heating up the kitchen and even that was too hot. I think we may have to find more cold salad-y type meals for those unbearable summer evenings. What is your favorite summer supper?
I am more than realizing most of my creations taste far better than they look!

Bud found a caterpillar. First the turtle and now Mr. Wiggles. We are turning into Wild Kingdom around here! He has already formed his cocoon so I obviously need to update that photo.

Stay cool,
Sonya

Lake Turtles

2011-06-06T09:44:00.001-05:00

I took the kids up to the cabin for a few days last week...it was a relaxing beginning to their summer vacation. You know, before we needed to head back home to help with community sandbagging.

You can imagine how excited they were to catch their first turtle! *When I was little, it seemed like turtle catching was a every-other-day event. Especially the tiny baby turtles. So when the kids told me they were going to catch one under the dock, I assumed it was a little one.

It wasn't.

*We are big fans of the catch and release turtle program so no turtles were harmed in this process. He (she) was only in the bucket for a couple minutes to be observed and loved up before she (he) was happily set onto the beach and swam away. Minnie-the-lake-dog was beyond disgusted with us that we let that turtle go. She had plans for turtle soup. You can see the release footage by clicking HERE.

10 cents in 2011 will still get you this:

2011-06-03T08:46:00.000-05:00

I find a whole lot of 25 cent and dollar prices at rummage sales, but it always makes me happy to come across items marked a dime. Nice addition to my clip-on earring collection!

Annnnnnnd we are back...

2011-06-02T17:52:00.006-05:00

Regular blogging will resume tomorrow.

I want to mention we have a really bad flooding situation here in our Sioux City area of Iowa, Nebraska and South Dakota, affecting a startling amount of residents and businesses that are being evacuated along the Missouri. You can see what is happening by clicking here or here. It is devastating. Your prayers would be so greatly appreciated as our communities continue to deal with this.

Sonya

Soup Supper

2011-05-27T10:37:00.001-05:00

I was fuh-reee-zing last night. Being the head chef in this establishment, the rest of the family pretty much has to go with what I deem favorable for supper. I went to my well-thumbed copy of our local Mops cookbook looking for some soup inspiration.

I wanted something creamy, hot and super delicious. So fixed a big ol pot of Wild Rice Soup! Totally said in Paula Deen's southern accent.

I've found the perfect little dinner rolls to serve alongside any type of soup...

They are Hyvee frozen dinner rolls, but you let them rise for about 6 hours, bake em and the compliements will cover you.

I know it is really unseasonal to ask this but, What is your favorite soup? We love homemade veggie beef using stew meat, chicken noodle and chicken enchilada. Does chili count? Chili, too! For a cold summertime soup, I love gazpacho.

One ends, another begins

2011-05-26T08:54:00.004-05:00

Lilacs have come to an end in our area, but the purple iris are in full bloom!

A man and his tools...

2011-05-25T10:59:00.003-05:00

Nesting Dolls

2011-05-24T07:15:00.003-05:00

Whenever I see nesting dolls I always think of the video they would play during episodes of Sesame Street. Do you remember that one? Click HERE to view it.
These gorgeous ladies were found at Second Season on Pierce Street here in Sioux City...

Tap, tap, tapping on my window...

2011-05-23T07:50:00.003-05:00

This past week, we could hear loud banging upstairs...It was startling.

It was insistent...

And very, very loud!

Hello, Mr Oriole! May I get you an orange?

He shows up daily.

Inspiring Me...

2011-05-22T07:33:00.000-05:00

SouleMama
Amanda is Amazing...Mama, Blogger, Writer, Knitter, Homeschooler, Baker...I would love to hang out with her for a week and see how she does it all. And she does it all calmly! She just gave birth (at home, naturally) to her 5th beautiful child. Her blog is a beautiful, inspiring place to stop and have a cup of tea.

I gave birth to two children.

Both in hospitals.

Using as much medication as they could give me.

During Lu's birth I told everyone I encountered on the way to our room that I wanted an epidural. Starting with the person who was at the switch board. And then man who just happened to be the person to wheel me up to the labor room. Poor guy. He was a volunteer and here was this hysterical 2 week overdue woman. I had heard there was a window and I did not want to miss my epidural window. And if this guy had anything to do with getting me an epidural, I wanted him to be sure to pass along this important information to whomever could get me that epidural as quickly as possible.

Epidural, epidural, epidural.

Lu ended up being an emergency c-section which made Bud a c-section when he came along as well.

Don't even get me started on the postpartum depression I had with Bud. Holy Moly.

So it's fun to visit Amanda's life and see what it might have been like if I was...you know...not me when I am in any amount of pain.

Enjoy your Sunday!
Sonya

Outside...

2011-05-20T09:23:00.000-05:00

Squeeeeeeeeeeeaaaaaaaaaaal!

2011-05-19T07:51:00.004-05:00

I knew, knew I had some good thrift Karma heading my way when I found a new place to do some digging.

I knew it the second I walked through the doors. It was like my thrifting fairy would touch my shoulder and whisper "this way...there is something you will love right over here..."

I am buying that fairy a latte later today.

Better pictures will be coming...there is absolutely zero sunshine here this morning.

From The "Free" Table

2011-05-18T09:05:00.001-05:00

Most sales I visit always seem to have a table or box filled with items that have a sign attached saying: Free! Help Yourself!
Stuff that the seller can just not figure out why someone would want, let alone pay for...

But still too good to just throw away...

These were found at a Church rummage last week! After I made my purchases, I mentioned that I was going to take a couple trays from their free table by the door. I always like to tell people if I do take something off their free pile, just because...

The two ladies working the check out wanted me to know there were areas of rust on the trays, but that is completely ok by me...These are going to be perfect for the studio to use as glitter trays!

Do you have 'free tables' in your areas that you rummage? Do you find things on them you can use?

Vintage Recipe Box

2011-05-17T08:00:00.000-05:00

I was at a rummage sale in Leeds last week, looking through tables set up in a tiny garage when I spotted this box:

I love the colors on it and do not mind a bit that the top decal is mostly gone:

This recipe box has the best color to it, it made me think of a Grandma's kitchen or Christmas time.

It had been used. It hadn't sat on a shelf admired for its prettiness...

The woman selling it said it was a gift to her and her husband 60 years ago when they were first married.

I love hearing the history of treasures thrifted!