tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-72026955948751772002024-03-13T07:11:14.974-05:00Charmstruck: Thrift & ThingsThrift stories, tips and finds from fashion to decor. Charmstruck thrifters welcome!Jacqueline Leehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10863068442922462022noreply@blogger.comBlogger47125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7202695594875177200.post-9654446919752345802016-06-03T20:13:00.001-05:002016-06-03T20:13:50.280-05:00Charmstruck Vintage Clothing & Accessories is Now On EtsyA few years back, I started Charmstruck as a blog for thrifters. My main goal was to share my love of thrifting with others, and to hopefully help encourage one or two towards secondhand fashion as an eco-friendly and ethical shopping alternative. It was also a way for me to combat the homesickness I was struggling with at the time. This blog gave me the distraction I needed, and also led to other wonderful opportunities, opportunities I had never expected such as a career and new friends. Eventually the Charmstruck blog helped rid of my homesickness completely, and guided me towards more confidence, and that new found confidence created wonderfully positive things for me.<br />
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One of which was <a href="https://www.etsy.com/shop/CharmstruckVintage" target="_blank">Charmstruck Vintage, my small and charming shop now on Etsy</a>, featuring vintage clothing and accessories for women and kids. <span style="background-color: white; color: #1d2129; font-family: helvetica, arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 18px;">My mission for Charmstruck i</span><span class="text_exposed_show" style="background-color: white; color: #1d2129; display: inline; font-family: helvetica, arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 18px;">s still the same: to establish a home for that which other's have set aside. There is so much unique beauty to be found in vintage & discarded items; I like leading people to discovering the quality cast-off that just happens to be everything they've been looking for, that just happens to be just their size. It brings meaning back to fashion; that feeling of: this was meant for me.</span><br />
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<span class="text_exposed_show" style="background-color: white; color: #1d2129; display: inline; font-family: helvetica, arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 18px;">If you check Charmstruck Vintage out and like what you see, please give my shop a follow, and thank you in advance! Charmstruck Vintage is also on <a href="https://www.facebook.com/charmstruck/?fref=ts" target="_blank">Facebook</a>, Instagram and <a href="https://www.pinterest.com/charmstruck/pins/" target="_blank">Pinterest</a> all of which are great ways to stay up-to-date on Charmstruck's latest finds and fashions. </span><br />
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Also,<a href="https://www.google.com/maps/place/Waukesha,+WI/@43.0052701,-88.3093725,12z/data=!3m1!4b1!4m5!3m4!1s0x8805a626948e9757:0xab2da13461989c95!8m2!3d43.0116784!4d-88.2314813" target="_blank"> if you live in or near Waukesha, WI</a> feel free to <a href="https://www.etsy.com/shop/CharmstruckVintage?ref=hdr_shop_menu" target="_blank">message me on Etsy</a> if you would like to try any items on or if you would like to schedule an order pickup to avoid a shipping fee, I am always more than happy to help!<br />
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Thanks for stopping by & visiting my new vintage shop!<br />
Jacqueline LeeJacqueline Leehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10863068442922462022noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7202695594875177200.post-639543419602125722011-07-12T18:26:00.004-05:002011-07-12T20:04:04.161-05:00Wore My Boyfriend's Shirt on My BirthdayMy birthday was on July 1. I went home to WI for the weekend and spent time with my family and friends; cured that homesickness that always sets in - That in itself is a gift, but I also bought myself a little upcycled something-something, of course! <br />
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I wrote about my "me present" for Soul Flower, (since it's from Soul Flower) but it's thrift fashion at its best, so I wanted to share it here with all of you. I really, really like like this top! You can find this blog on their <a href="http://www.facebook.com/soulflower">Facebook page</a> (where more people are replying, especially if you want to join the Birthday convo) OR simply...<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://soulflowerbuds.blogspot.com/2011/07/wore-my-boyfriends-shirt-on-my-birthday.html">Click HERE to READ: Wore My Boyfriend's Shirt on My Birthday :)</a></td></tr>
</tbody></table>Those cute white earrings were also thrifted for 40 cents! And I've been wearing them all week with pretty much everything! See, I even wore them on the Fourth of July!<br />
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Hope you've all been enjoying your thrifty summer finds as much as I have! Any item you've found lately that you just can't stop wearing?Jacqueline Leehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10863068442922462022noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7202695594875177200.post-34368299242099088762011-07-10T18:20:00.003-05:002011-07-10T18:37:00.172-05:00Tofu Taste Tester<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; margin-left: 1em; text-align: right;"><tbody>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://charmstruck.blogspot.com/2010/12/three-simple-resolutions.html">Nectarine 4 Dessert</a></td></tr>
</tbody></table>I'm not a vegetarian. I sometimes wish I had the strength to be one, but I just love meat too dang much. So instead, I try to have a meatless day or two each week. Some weeks I'm better at this than others. My reasons for doing so are simply: I know it's healthy, I like to get nutritional value from what I put into my body, I feel good on the days I don't eat meat ( I'm less likely to get a tummy ache or feel overly full), I know it's the eco thing to do and, lastly, fruits and veggies taste better than most of the other junk out there. Back 'round New Year, <a href="http://www.thriftcore.com/">Thrift Core</a> had us <a href="http://charmstruck.blogspot.com/2010/12/three-simple-resolutions.html">come up with three resolutions</a>, and although that's normally not my thing, I went for it. One of the things on <a href="http://charmstruck.blogspot.com/2010/12/three-simple-resolutions.html">my list</a> was to buy more local, organic food, and with <a href="http://www.wedge.coop/">The Wedge Natural Food Co-op </a>and several Farmer's Markets nearby, doing so hasn't been too difficult, and the food seriously tastes soooo much better! Reminds me, learning to sew was on my resolution list, too, but I haven't gotten on that, yet - I'm thinking around fall time I'll calm down enough to sit still and learn something useful. I got to. It's on the list!<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-VITczHcCPQY/ThoNF4qOYWI/AAAAAAAAAkc/t-YrMxGRHAc/s1600/tofu+soup.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="150" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-VITczHcCPQY/ThoNF4qOYWI/AAAAAAAAAkc/t-YrMxGRHAc/s200/tofu+soup.jpg" width="200" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://thaifood.about.com/od/vegetarianthairecipes/r/veggilemongsoup.htm">VIA</a></td></tr>
</tbody></table>But I'm sidetracking.....vegetarian....right. So, my <a href="http://www.soul-flower.com/">Soul Flower</a> boss, Peggy, is a vegetarian, and I told her that I had tofu for my first time in a soup at a local Thai restaurant. I was surprised to find, I like it - Never imagined I would, it's always looked like an icky, dirty sponge to me (a scrumptious dirty sponge, now). Peggy then told me that she loves deep fried tofu, and even though that kind of ruins the healthy side of it all, sometimes being slightly smart and a little naughty is what a good life is all about. Which is why I went home and deep fried me some tofu, and I was pleasantly surprised to find, I like that too. Peggy was right, it does taste gooood.<br />
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I still had leftover tofu which I had intended to put into this amazing <a href="http://thaifood.about.com/od/vegetarianthairecipes/r/veggilemongsoup.htm">Thai Tofu Noodle with Lemongrass Soup </a>I stumbled upon, but I never took the time to go shopping for the rest of the ingredients. Instead, I pan cooked the leftover tofu in olive oil and soy sauce, tossed it into a veggie stir fry and topped off some teriyaki sesame noodles - Which once again was YUM.<br />
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The night I deep fried my tofu, all I did was pat the tofu dry and then tossed it into a mix of pepper & flour before frying it up in some olive oil. Then I threw it inside of some romaine leaves, with cucumber, red pepper, and some delicious tezatziki sauce, and that was that. My first time buying and cooking up tofu was a success, and I'm still excited to make that Lemongrass soup sometime soon, it just sounds amazing to me!<br />
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Do you like tofu? What's your favorite tofu recipe? I'd like to try out some more delicious, new and healthy meals. :)<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div>Jacqueline Leehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10863068442922462022noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7202695594875177200.post-52966164113075714902011-06-02T19:16:00.003-05:002011-06-02T22:33:58.852-05:00Still Alive & WritingA lot of changes have been taking place the last couple weeks, so I haven't had much time to write here. I miss all you bloggers out there, and will be back reading, commenting and sharing as soon as I get all settled. I haven't <i>completely</i> stopped blogging though, one of my latest life changes is a new job at <a href="http://www.soul-flower.com/">Soul Flower</a>. I'm their Creative Writer (Copywriter) and will be working on their product descriptions, social media, blogging, etc. It's pretty exciting because I absolutely love their eco-friendly clothing! Matching my work life with my eco interests and creative passions is AMAZING! These first few weeks have actually felt somewhat surreal.<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-RS3PjQzhrtY/TegijOfv9fI/AAAAAAAAAkA/vZpwZqfjP2M/s1600/almost-famous_000-300x225.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-RS3PjQzhrtY/TegijOfv9fI/AAAAAAAAAkA/vZpwZqfjP2M/s320/almost-famous_000-300x225.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><br />
Well, today I did my very first blog post for them, about what Penny Lane and Richard Hammond from <i>Almost Famous</i> would buy if they shopped Soul Flower. I really do love Kate Hudson's style and was so excited to put this blog together. Every now and then I'll share some of my other work and you can check it out if you like! Blog link:<br />
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<a href="http://soulflowerbuds.blogspot.com/2011/06/almost-famous-soul-flower-style.html">Almost Famous: Soul-Flower Style </a><br />
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This post received a great response on their FB wall! Worth checking that out and answering, "If you could snag the wardrobe of any movie character, whose would it be?" Click <a href="http://www.facebook.com/soulflower">HERE</a> if you wanna answer!<br />
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...I can't believe I get to call this "work." Soul Flower rocks! More than I imagined.<br />
Before I landed this job, I did an unpaid post on their eco-friendly fashions, you can check that out if you want to oogle some sweet, environmentally friendly clothes:<br />
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<a href="http://charmstruck.blogspot.com/2011/04/sustainable-fashion-soul-flower.html">Sustainable Fashion: Soul-Flower</a><br />
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I'll be back on track with Charmstruck super soon! You haven't ridded of me, yet! ;)<br />
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Love & Happiness<br />
JacquelineJacqueline Leehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10863068442922462022noreply@blogger.com7tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7202695594875177200.post-91413550325581430712011-05-04T15:06:00.002-05:002011-05-04T20:15:36.237-05:00Mother's Day Thrift GiftIf you haven't already gotten your mum something for Mother's Day, I highly suggest you run out and thrift something. Many beautiful things are to be had, from clothes to collectibles. Since I live in Minneapolis, I celebrated Mother's Day early while I was home (in WI) for Easter. Outside of spending some girl time together, and enjoying a yummy margarita and dinner out at La Chimenea, I was extremely excited to give her her gift. <br />
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You see, ever since I can remember, my mom has had the Christopher Collection on display in a tall glass curio in her living room. Throughout the years, I have now and then stumbled upon a Christopher she does not have while perusing antique malls and thrift stores. Every time I find one I am completely surprised - I mean, the woman has a TON of these little Christopher boys and girls, how many more could possibly be out there? Additionally, they are not easy to find; despite my mom having a ton of them, there aren't tons of them waiting for me at every turn. They are a rarity. <br />
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<div style="text-align: center;">What makes the Christopher Collection so valuable is that they make my mom smile.</div><div style="text-align: center;">And they remind me of my childhood.</div><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-FYoV3xoSza0/TcGlWmDVDjI/AAAAAAAAAjc/GteiMyMMtSY/s1600/lindas_026.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="300" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-FYoV3xoSza0/TcGlWmDVDjI/AAAAAAAAAjc/GteiMyMMtSY/s400/lindas_026.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Her label name is "Priscilla"</td></tr>
</tbody></table>I have found two in the past that she did not have but they were broken, so I left them behind. One was a girl posed with a squirrel and the other was on a swing. So, at least I know I am still on the hunt!<br />
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The Christopher I found for Mother's Day, however, she is perfect! When I found her, I practically started jumping up and down; she is in excellent condition! And as if that wasn't enough, she has special meaning, too. This last year, my good friend Andrea taught me how to cross stitch (Thanks, Andrea!). Most of my other friends only find this amusing, and make granny jokes (haha), but my mom knew I was excited to learn a new hobby, and she was always the one asking me how my cross stitch project was coming along. <br />
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Which is why I just love this precious addition to my mom's Christopher Collection. <br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The floral pattern on her apron matches what she is stitching</td></tr>
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Christophers always stand out in a thrift crowd for me, somehow their clean, pastel colors make them extremely eye-catching. Without looking at the bottom, I can always be certain I have found a Christopher by their soft, sienna brown eyes...they really are the sweetest little figurines.<br />
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Not only did I thrift her figurine, but I also thrifted her card. Can you believe how perfectly suiting that card is?! It all came together quite well, which is why I really couldn't wait to give it to my mom.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-SkyFipKalZ4/TcGlm5pukII/AAAAAAAAAjg/zmVHEVkNpUE/s1600/lindas_060.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="300" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-SkyFipKalZ4/TcGlm5pukII/AAAAAAAAAjg/zmVHEVkNpUE/s400/lindas_060.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The perfect thrifrted pair!</td></tr>
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Best part is, she loved it as much as I do and she even got teary eyed!<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-mEfK6xXAiHA/TcGpK5W-tDI/AAAAAAAAAjs/ONiGObGtcso/s1600/lindas_061k.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-mEfK6xXAiHA/TcGpK5W-tDI/AAAAAAAAAjs/ONiGObGtcso/s400/lindas_061k.jpg" width="347" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">I absolutely heart the floral pattern, her little shoes, and how even the back of her chair is detailed</td></tr>
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A gift only needs to be meaningful...where you bought it or how much it cost, just doesn't matter. <br />
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Hope all you mom's out there have a meaningful weekend with the ones you love most!<br />
Happy Early Mother's Day to you, too!!<br />
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<div style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-size: small;">All pictures presented in this post were taken by my by mom! Thanks mom, I love you. </span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><br />
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</div>Jacqueline Leehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10863068442922462022noreply@blogger.com9tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7202695594875177200.post-72568121752339925452011-05-02T16:50:00.002-05:002011-05-02T22:38:14.085-05:00Thrift Shoes: Three's a CharmMost days my thrift wanderings result in nothing too exciting, but every now and then the stars align and I find things in beautiful abundance. This weekend was overly abundant. That I-feel-like-I-should-feel-guilty, kind of abundant. I bought my years worth of heels in one day. Yet, I feel no guilt-ridden negativity, because these pretty thrift things have blinded me and put a goofball grin on my face. <br />
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To avoid any future guilt, let's place blame...<br />
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I'm gonna have to point fingers at the colors. Clearly it is their fault entirely, sitting on the shelves all brand new and bright, flaunting their cheeriness, while making unspoken promises of ending the perpetual gloom that has overtaken Minneapolis...if it wasn't for all the vibrant, enthralling colors I would be a much stronger person. I would NOT have purchased the amount of dress shoes I buy within a year if there hadn't been<i> all the pretty colors!</i><br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Hu_Oc-vdmTs/Tb8EZk2pl0I/AAAAAAAAAjE/5D9nCcpSPH0/s1600/blamec.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Hu_Oc-vdmTs/Tb8EZk2pl0I/AAAAAAAAAjE/5D9nCcpSPH0/s400/blamec.jpg" width="350" /></a></div>They were all thrift temptress cheap, too, even Cleopatra would have swooned...and I think that says a lot.<br />
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Oh! And the size! I blame the size.<br />
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All size 8? Oh my god, I didn't stand a chance, did I? <br />
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Who we really can blame is Johnathan.<br />
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You see, it started with the green heels; obviously they stand out in a crowd. Then I saw the red Steve Madden heels and truly got excited because I have a black pair of them at home, and they've always been a comfy favorite; they don't feel like heels <i>at all</i>. I was done shopping. It was decided - I was going to get the red heels and <span style="font-size: small;"><i>only</i></span> the red heels.<br />
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But then there was Johnathan, practically placing all 6 feet of himself on my left shoulder..."You should get them both!" and then seconds later exclaiming, "Look at these!" as he dangled a pair of purple strap Gap wedges before me...and then a gray pair of heels trimmed in yellow. A devilishly handsome grin spread across his face; I should have turned away, but being that strong, well, it just isn't any fun.<br />
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So I tried them all on. Each and every temptress. Of course they all fit.<br />
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I once again declared I'd be getting just the ONE pair, but then Johnathan said what every girl would want him to say, "But, I really like that green pair." (me too!) "And those purple ones, I know you'd wear those a lot." (i would!)<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-QPwkaL7Lzrc/Tb8EsfcP_mI/AAAAAAAAAjI/VZVkPcoELLA/s1600/strain.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-QPwkaL7Lzrc/Tb8EsfcP_mI/AAAAAAAAAjI/VZVkPcoELLA/s400/strain.jpg" width="343" /></a></div><br />
That's when I stood for a solid 5 minutes staring at my thrift train of shoes, listening to both the good Jacqueline, and the bad. The Good Jacqueline knows I've never purchased that many shoes in a day - in my life. I estimate I might buy one pair of heels a year, like the <a href="http://charmstruck.blogspot.com/2010/12/thrifters-closet-polka-dot-heels-i.html">Polka Dot Steve Madden pair I love </a>so much. I also wear them not only with dresses, but jeans too. I take them to more than one ball, so to say. The Bad Jack knows this and was milking it for all it was worth: <i>you could sleep in them, wear them with a robe; ladies in the 50's did that, right? You could wear 'em everywhere, everyday; heels are the new tennis shoe - minus the comfort - how could you not want them?! A sexy lady deserves sexy heels!</i><br />
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....the bad me is always so flattering. <br />
Bad boys are, too.<br />
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In the past I have admitted I am spoiled, and I am here to admit it again. I decided on one pair. I honestly did. But Johnathan then decided to buy the other two pairs of heels for me. At the checkout counter he still had that devilishly handsome grin on his face.<br />
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It's not my fault I picked a great boyfriend is it? Pretty sure we could blame that on him anyways...<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-8nYuQ5IANTw/Tb8JwcsT4zI/AAAAAAAAAjM/sDHn7uZdnns/s1600/100_1603.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="301" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-8nYuQ5IANTw/Tb8JwcsT4zI/AAAAAAAAAjM/sDHn7uZdnns/s400/100_1603.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: x-small;">Red: Steve Madden, Purple: Gap (never worn), Green: Unknown (never worn)</span></div><br />
Besides, they <i>always </i>say every girl likes a bad boy, and they also <i>always</i> say three's a charm.<br />
It's not my fault I listen well, is it?? ;)<br />
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I'm just a Charmstruck girl living in a charm-filled world, and my closet's a little brighter because of it.<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-bXAVF2Z5-AQ/Tb8MWHSYuyI/AAAAAAAAAjU/GJPEqsquNos/s1600/toast.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-bXAVF2Z5-AQ/Tb8MWHSYuyI/AAAAAAAAAjU/GJPEqsquNos/s320/toast.jpg" width="273" /></a></div><br />
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At least I turned away the gray pair, the black pair and the brown pair...I still sorta, kinda got a grip on things, right? Lol<br />
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<div style="text-align: right;">Similar Posts:</div><div style="text-align: right;"><a href="http://charmstruck.blogspot.com/2010/12/thrifters-closet-polka-dot-heels-i.html">Polka Dot Heels I Heart</a></div><div style="text-align: right;"><a href="http://charmstruck.blogspot.com/2011/03/hiding-stalking-thrifting.html">Hiding, Stalking, Thrifting</a></div>Jacqueline Leehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10863068442922462022noreply@blogger.com11tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7202695594875177200.post-14624835443416269832011-04-19T21:28:00.001-05:002011-05-02T22:47:17.072-05:00Sustainable Fashion: Soul-FlowerI've discovered an eco-friendly online boutique based out of Saint Paul, Minnesota that has some unique, funky-fun pieces. It's called <a href="http://www.soul-flower.com/">Soul-Flower</a>, and they offer eco-fashions for men, women and children. If thrifting secondhand goods isn't quite your thing, but you still want to aide in the Earth's sustainability, organic and hemp clothing are the way to go -- they're <i>very </i>easy-going on the environment. If you're looking for some new clothes with bohemian flair, (minus the materialistic guilt), <a href="http://www.soul-flower.com/">Soul-Flower</a> is the online shop for you. <br />
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Here are a few of my favorites (<span style="font-size: x-small;">All photos below are via Soul-Flower</span>):<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-F1x6cZKqD1g/Ta4B5RO4ynI/AAAAAAAAAio/n3AG2LaQfgw/s1600/owldress3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="368" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-F1x6cZKqD1g/Ta4B5RO4ynI/AAAAAAAAAio/n3AG2LaQfgw/s400/owldress3.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.blogger.com/goog_1596489432"> </a><span style="font-size: x-small;"><a href="http://www.soul-flower.com/hippie/AVA006/Retro+Owl+Tank+Dress.html">Closer Look</a></span></div><br />
Without a number one hit on the radio or their hooters in a centerfold, owls have achieved a legendary level of fame. Impressively enough, they've won us with their wide-eyed wisdom alone, soaring over geekdom and straight onto popularity! If this adorable <a href="http://www.soul-flower.com/hippie/AVA006/Retro+Owl+Tank+Dress.html">owl tank dress</a> couldn't make me cool, nothing ever will. ;)<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.soul-flower.com/hippie/GRA013/Raine+Tie+Dye+Hemp+Dress.html"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-ZBWDIFc5dXs/Ta4Gt1dEubI/AAAAAAAAAis/Mgymw-3Oxk4/s400/tye+dress.jpg" width="326" /></a></div><br />
But the one I really dig is this <a href="http://www.soul-flower.com/hippie/GRA013/Raine+Tie+Dye+Hemp+Dress.html">Raine Tie Dye Hemp Dress</a>. I practically live in dresses in the summertime because I like staying cool and hate having fabric cling to me -- I look at this dress and I immediately feel that cool, summer evening breeze. I love the loose, flowy feel and, as we all know, I have a hard time passing by those soulful blues.<br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-1OIT18Rdii0/Ta4I1OgXbFI/AAAAAAAAAiw/mYvaLMIzYLE/s1600/t%2527s2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="241" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-1OIT18Rdii0/Ta4I1OgXbFI/AAAAAAAAAiw/mYvaLMIzYLE/s400/t%2527s2.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.soul-flower.com/organic/ins/mens+t-shirts.html"><span style="font-size: x-small;">Take a Hike & Hunter S. T-shirts</span></a></td></tr>
</tbody></table><br />
Beyond having great looks for the ladies,<a href="http://www.soul-flower.com/"> Soul-Flower</a> has a ton of really cool men's organic tees. <br />
<div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.soul-flower.com/hippie/BUD008/Vibrate+T-Shirt.html"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-vYa-NRdDk-s/Ta4KF8Ct75I/AAAAAAAAAi0/rtQrFTTZlAw/s400/vib.jpg" width="326" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: center;">This <a href="http://www.soul-flower.com/hippie/BUD008/Vibrate+T-Shirt.html">Vibrate Buddha Tee</a> is especially unique and eye-catching. The vibration effect is caused by closely paired double lines, a visual trick that is sure to be a conversation starter! Another plus side, beyond being awesomely fashionable, is that these organic T-shirts are incredibly soft and comfortable!</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.soul-flower.com/hippie/SOL072/Positively+Hemp+Cargo+Pants.html"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-2ydquQCb6WE/Ta4MPg7WiBI/AAAAAAAAAi4/96qPB2TwiAg/s320/hemp+P.jpg" width="261" /></a></div>Hemp clothing, such as these <a href="http://www.soul-flower.com/hippie/SOL072/Positively+Hemp+Cargo+Pants.html">stylish pants</a>, is a smart, eco-friendly fabric choice. Hemp uses less resources such as land and water, and unlike many other plants, hemp actually revitalizes the soil as it grows. It's also insanely durable, and is known to have three times the strength of cotton fibers! <i>And</i>, did you know, hemp is UV and mold resistant? Yeah, it's a pretty versatile, benifical and amazing plant! The environmental benefits of hemp go far beyond what I've listed above...if I get into it all now, this blog post would never end!<br />
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Which is why the products <a href="http://www.soul-flower.com/">Soul-Flower</a> has to offer are well worth our pretty pennies! So even if buying secondhand isn't quite your thing, there are other environmentally beneficial ways to shop and stay sensibly fashionable. <br />
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On that note, I leave you with one last piece of eye-candy:<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-5TXrBIYH2aM/Ta4QvMNAiYI/AAAAAAAAAjA/C6E0FO5KiNw/s1600/recycled+wood.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-5TXrBIYH2aM/Ta4QvMNAiYI/AAAAAAAAAjA/C6E0FO5KiNw/s200/recycled+wood.jpg" width="163" /></a><a href="http://www.soul-flower.com/hippie/PRF004/SALE%21+Ski+Girl+Patch+Skirt.html"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-EbSLU10rems/Ta4P0-PBKPI/AAAAAAAAAi8/UEHVxiNVEsU/s320/skirt.jpg" width="261" /></a> </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div>This artsy <a href="http://www.soul-flower.com/hippie/PRF004/SALE%21+Ski+Girl+Patch+Skirt.html">Ski Girl Skirt</a> is on sale! And these recycled <a href="http://www.soul-flower.com/hippie/GTJ003/Teal+Swirls+Earrings.html">wood earrings</a> in teal (only $12.99) are absolutely stunning! They pair well together, which makes it all the more tempting, don't you think?<br />
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</div><div style="text-align: left;">"Cool threads for kind heads" is <a href="http://www.soul-flower.com/">Soul-Flower's</a> signature tagline, which is perfectly suiting; if you want your fashion sense to match your sensibility I do believe this is the online shop for you.</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: left;">I definitely dig it!</div>Jacqueline Leehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10863068442922462022noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7202695594875177200.post-76433785950027977982011-04-15T14:54:00.000-05:002011-04-15T14:54:09.009-05:00Secondhand Sheer ShirtFew weeks ago I thrifted this sweet navy and cream sheer top by Charlotte Russo for $3.<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-QYpE15gQrCs/TaiYp23FySI/AAAAAAAAAiU/9K7xzssSnUQ/s1600/100_1200.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-QYpE15gQrCs/TaiYp23FySI/AAAAAAAAAiU/9K7xzssSnUQ/s320/100_1200.JPG" width="240" /></a></div><br />
Snapping pictures of yourself without a large mirror is tricky business! But, I'm just wearing this top with some dark blue jeans and dainty, plain flats. I also paired this top with the <a href="http://charmstruck.blogspot.com/2011/01/thrift-necklace-gone-poetic.html">bird necklace I thrifted </a>awhile ago since the vine pattern fits the meadow-like feel perfectly.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> <a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-zFHJcpa7OeI/TaiYqzOGc7I/AAAAAAAAAiY/9ee8HE7IrFQ/s1600/100_1203.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-zFHJcpa7OeI/TaiYqzOGc7I/AAAAAAAAAiY/9ee8HE7IrFQ/s320/100_1203.JPG" width="240" /></a></div><br />
And here is what the beautifully detailed back of it looks like:<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-9_h5OCSaeNA/TaiYpOWDgJI/AAAAAAAAAiQ/Ng6NuNO_GLI/s1600/100_1173.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-9_h5OCSaeNA/TaiYpOWDgJI/AAAAAAAAAiQ/Ng6NuNO_GLI/s320/100_1173.JPG" width="240" /></a></div><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-KRNWruCQSj4/TaiYr3gbOfI/AAAAAAAAAic/LQqXd4O0NQc/s1600/100_1208.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-KRNWruCQSj4/TaiYr3gbOfI/AAAAAAAAAic/LQqXd4O0NQc/s320/100_1208.JPG" width="240" /></a><br />
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It makes me think of summer fields...<br />
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And dandelion wishes I've sent on the wind.<br />
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Which are wonderful thoughts to have on a chilly, gloomy, supposed "Spring" day. ;) Hope you all have a wonderfully fun weekend!<br />
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<div style="text-align: right;">Related Posts:</div><div style="text-align: right;"><a href="http://charmstruck.blogspot.com/2011/01/thrift-necklace-gone-poetic.html">Thrift Necklace Gone Poetic</a></div>Jacqueline Leehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10863068442922462022noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7202695594875177200.post-9363763526263828472011-04-08T18:26:00.004-05:002011-04-09T12:08:25.991-05:00How Often Do You Buy?When trying to convince people that thrift can result in awesome finds that are "brand new" through a thrift blog, people tend to imagine that I go thrifting all time. Which in a way is correct, I do tend to go once a week, sometimes more. I do not, however, thrift something every time I go thrifting. More often than not I just wander and take things in, check out prices for comparison, and look for anything that might interest my readers or me. I don't believe in over-consumption, which is exactly why I try to encourage the thrift lifestyle.<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-OoSzk1Piiik/TZ903NBQBLI/AAAAAAAAAho/TBJv5tBMIPs/s1600/junkyard_swans2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="293" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-OoSzk1Piiik/TZ903NBQBLI/AAAAAAAAAho/TBJv5tBMIPs/s400/junkyard_swans2.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div> Due to thrifting often, I've needed to teach myself to resist buying every deal I dig. When I do find myself being tempted by material things, I ask myself two questions:<br />
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1) <span style="font-size: large;">Do I need this?</span> Now, if a person is being completely honest with themselves a lot of the time the answer to this question is no. So, then ask...<br />
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2) Will I regret not getting this? Once again, very easy to lie to ourselves. My way of testing this is by putting the item back down (not in the cart; back on the shelf...) and wandering around some more. If I practically have to remind myself of its existence before leaving, I don't need it. I already almost forgot about it; it's not unforgettable, Nat King Cole isn't singing on the stage of my mind. I can walk away. <br />
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I know that my boyfriend, Johnathan, asks himself:<br />
3) Is this a rare deal, a.k.a, a steal? Once again, one needs to be honest with themselves.When thrifting there will be several steals, that doesn't mean they need to be yours.<br />
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When I am in retail stores I try to avoid going through these questions. Even if it's the cutest thing ever I try and tell myself I don't need it. A few of my exceptions are: undergarments, swimsuits, hygiene products or if I've received a gift card. Most of my shoes are thrifted, but on occasion I will buy boots or tennies brand new for reasons of comfort, and I wear them for years. <br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">Other than that, most of my belongings from decor to clothing are secondhand. </span><br />
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I've learned that some people find this shabby, but I just find it smart. For one, I'm cutting back on wasteful consumption,wasteful packaging, wasteful spending, and, most importantly, I'm not supporting shallow American ideals I don't believe in. At the end of the day I'm saving a lot.<br />
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-iaWmyQ_nDOQ/TZ93R_YhAKI/AAAAAAAAAhs/H6PUTQrcq1U/s1600/mudpuddlegirl33.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-iaWmyQ_nDOQ/TZ93R_YhAKI/AAAAAAAAAhs/H6PUTQrcq1U/s200/mudpuddlegirl33.jpg" width="150" /></a>If you don't thrift, you would not believe the amount of fashionable (usually brand name) clothing I can get for the same price as one mall outfit. <br />
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Especially when it comes to kid's clothing, I don't get why on earth people waste so much money on mall clothes when the kid is going to outgrow the outfit so quickly and dirty it along the way. Why not save the money and buy "new" clothes at the thrift store? (I have a post next week that shares an adorable thrifted Gymboree dress I found).<br />
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Not to say the mall doesn't tempt me on occasion! Couple weeks ago when I went to the Mall of America with Andrea, I did fall for an outfit. But I forced myself to quickly gush about it, fold it nicely, and put it back. I just didn't need it, and I couldn't justify buying it (only that I would have looked mighty damn good in it...Lol!). <br />
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I've been rewarded for this in the past. I once really liked a black Forever 21 dress, except it was marked at $40 and it was only a plain cotton dress. Once again, I couldn't justify that so I walked away. Two weeks later I was in a Saint Vinnies, when right before me was that very black dress, new tags still on, MY SIZE, for just $2.50! I bought that dress 4 years ago, and I still wear it today. Love it! If that isn't a wise shopper reward, I don't know what is! <br />
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<span style="font-size: large;"> What we consume truly makes a difference, and I don't think many Americans acknowledge that. Luckily, the numbers for ecological and consumerist concern seem to be growing. I'm not extreme in believing people should give up everything and stop buying, I just believe that whenever possible we should respect what we've been given by reusing and recycling. It's too easy not to...</span><br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-6UcQyb0ZWRs/TZ9vXsUAooI/AAAAAAAAAhc/RH1AZ8L-76s/s1600/100_1352.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="300" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-6UcQyb0ZWRs/TZ9vXsUAooI/AAAAAAAAAhc/RH1AZ8L-76s/s400/100_1352.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Patina shot, taken by me</td></tr>
</tbody></table><br />
Much of what I have thrifted and share on Charmstruck has been purchased over the years, not in one week. I try to share more recent finds, but overall, I'm seriously not buying a whole ton these days. It's relieving, because I will have extra money to pay off my college loans and travel. I'd much rather travel and see the beauty of the world than own twenty pairs of pretty shoes I'll rarely wear. <br />
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-2LmTJFt-K3k/TZ9v_TItBTI/AAAAAAAAAhk/psSTu1-qYZA/s1600/housesCN_1147.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-2LmTJFt-K3k/TZ9v_TItBTI/AAAAAAAAAhk/psSTu1-qYZA/s400/housesCN_1147.jpg" width="255" /></a><br />
<span style="font-size: small;">When I'm tempted, I try to keep that larger picture in mind.</span><br />
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Now, if a person is a reseller they can thrift all they want. In the future I may try my hand at reselling but for now, I just don't have the space for the inventory, and I'm not quite ready to take that on. Perhaps a corner in an antique mall would suit me someday. Either way, I'll advertise secondhand any day, whether I have my own goods to peddle or not.<br />
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How often do you thrift? Do you struggle with temptation? Do you try and avoid retail?<br />
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I'd really love to hear your consumerist tactics!<br />
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If you'd like to read an amusing story about a girl and her crazed gotta-have-it moments (cause admit it, we all have 'em!), check out: <a href="http://charmstruck.blogspot.com/2011/03/hiding-stalking-thrifting.html">Hiding, Stalking, Thrifting</a>Jacqueline Leehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10863068442922462022noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7202695594875177200.post-17869667475804778692011-04-04T13:28:00.003-05:002011-04-04T13:56:06.455-05:00Thrift Attic to Basement: Japanese Tea SetSo not too long ago, I wrote <a href="http://charmstruck.blogspot.com/2011/02/cute-stove-looking-for-hot-teapot.html">a post </a>about wanting to find an enamel teapot. I have not managed to find my thrifty enamel teapot, yet, but what I did not realize at the time of that post is that I do own a beautiful tea set...and more. I discovered it down in the basement.<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-b0MCjRo2h4Y/TZn41a8FjpI/AAAAAAAAAg0/zvUywr4MbiQ/s1600/Basement+001.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="243" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-b0MCjRo2h4Y/TZn41a8FjpI/AAAAAAAAAg0/zvUywr4MbiQ/s320/Basement+001.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>This very box held my "new" Japanese tea set. It was buried under a pile of fake flowers and plants (which do not interest me). I would have assumed that's all the box had to offer, but my mom pulled it out, asking me if I was interested in keep my Grandma's set...<br />
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Was I!?!<br />
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What's hiding inside of that rolled newspaper is absolutely stunning! If I had seen these items in a thrift shop, I would have bolted at them like a feign! Instead, I got them for free!<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-7nB8IVqqhic/TZn_bYf4XSI/AAAAAAAAAg4/W-KyELqq39E/s1600/Basement+027.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="303" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-7nB8IVqqhic/TZn_bYf4XSI/AAAAAAAAAg4/W-KyELqq39E/s400/Basement+027.JPG" width="400" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-VwfQ9FbKWaM/TZn_k1JmJTI/AAAAAAAAAg8/itXQomokEao/s1600/tea2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="303" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-VwfQ9FbKWaM/TZn_k1JmJTI/AAAAAAAAAg8/itXQomokEao/s400/tea2.jpg" width="400" /></a><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-UfFQuIug4Q4/TZn_rpD3yiI/AAAAAAAAAhA/JxfrlseTwqU/s1600/tea1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="303" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-UfFQuIug4Q4/TZn_rpD3yiI/AAAAAAAAAhA/JxfrlseTwqU/s400/tea1.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-JHbKHVhqkCg/TZn_0Ocsf5I/AAAAAAAAAhE/DwG7hn4PefU/s1600/tea3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="303" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-JHbKHVhqkCg/TZn_0Ocsf5I/AAAAAAAAAhE/DwG7hn4PefU/s400/tea3.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-A6aBFtwNAmA/TZn_69p6RDI/AAAAAAAAAhI/BK4hsN2MZwU/s1600/tea4.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="303" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-A6aBFtwNAmA/TZn_69p6RDI/AAAAAAAAAhI/BK4hsN2MZwU/s400/tea4.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>Blue is my favorite color, so I couldn't ask for a more perfect set! I'm in vintage love! My Grandma Jones loved Japanese style, and most of her collectibles, like the <a href="http://charmstruck.blogspot.com/2011/03/thrift-attic-to-basement-lipstick-lady.html">Basement Lipstick Lady</a>, were made in Japan. I've come to understand that this tea set and the Japanese soup bowls to follow, were purchased by my Grandma from San Francisco's infamous Chinatown when she was younger.<br />
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Here are my "new" Japanese soup bowls that we're also bundled within that box:<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-3PVycVGz6FY/TZoFJlxbVOI/AAAAAAAAAhQ/d_j5H0rdzj4/s1600/soup2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="303" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-3PVycVGz6FY/TZoFJlxbVOI/AAAAAAAAAhQ/d_j5H0rdzj4/s400/soup2.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-tg3MP5bjQv8/TZoE9SQP9qI/AAAAAAAAAhM/51sii2Ramkk/s1600/soup1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="303" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-tg3MP5bjQv8/TZoE9SQP9qI/AAAAAAAAAhM/51sii2Ramkk/s400/soup1.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-_PbEpz2DBzA/TZoFsc24d_I/AAAAAAAAAhY/hf9QQCBPeqQ/s1600/soup4.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="303" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-_PbEpz2DBzA/TZoFsc24d_I/AAAAAAAAAhY/hf9QQCBPeqQ/s400/soup4.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>There are five of the Japanese bowls, featuring a powerful, red dragon on one side, and a swirling rooster design on the other. Each spoon (there are four, one must have broken), has the dragon symbol. What I like most about this soup bowl set, is the bright yellow cackle. I can't wait to make some homemade Eggdrop Soup and slurp from those fancy spoons!<br />
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I never knew a soup bowl could express such sheer power, but these certainly do.<br />
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All of these basement items were in perfect condition, other than a small chip on the spout of my Grandma's teapot. I plan on using the cups and bowls, but I feel wary of using the teapot at all...we'll see. The teapot does have an infuser in it's spout, so it would be pretty nice to try it out, perhaps on a very special occasion.<br />
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Who would have guessed all that vintage beauty was inside that skimpy, hidden box?? I'm grateful my Grandma had such wonderful taste!<br />
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If you'd like to admire some more modern Japanese dish sets, Van, from Thrift Core recently shared her thrifted Japanese collection, as well. It's pretty cool, and features cute kitty art, so check it out: <a href="http://www.thriftcore.com/2011/03/thrifted-collections-japanese-cups-and.html">Thrifted Collections: Japanese Cups and Bowls.</a><br />
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My basement tea set just goes to show that sometimes we already have what we want...and it's quite the discovery.<br />
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<div style="text-align: right;">Other Thrift Attic to Basement Posts:</div><div style="text-align: right;"><a href="http://charmstruck.blogspot.com/2011/03/thrift-attic-to-basement-lipstick-lady.html">Lipstick Lady</a></div><div style="text-align: right;"><a href="http://charmstruck.blogspot.com/2011/03/thrift-attic-to-basement-1931-first.html">1931 Certificate</a></div>Jacqueline Leehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10863068442922462022noreply@blogger.com8tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7202695594875177200.post-26695663002179606892011-04-01T14:59:00.005-05:002011-04-01T20:02:12.581-05:00Actin' a Fool MonthlyI live foolishness month to month. For me, April 1 is the day on which I can celebrate my years many, many moments of actin' a fool.<br />
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In honor of April 1, 2011, I'll share with you the highlight Actin' a Fool moment of March:<br />
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So, as you know, last week my good friend, Andrea, came to visit me in Minneapolis. She was supposed to have arrived at 2:30p.m., but instead showed at 5:30p.m. because she had missed her bus. Andrea had been late; the bus had left and consequently she had to buy a whole new bus ticket. Luckily, she was able to get onto another bus, and was still able to make it out by us. Happy enough ending. Lesson learned.<br />
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Or was it? DUN DUN DUN <br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-6CP7gwQSiWs/TZYgCUD2qYI/AAAAAAAAAgs/PgaFf2gFxxk/s1600/100_1350stupid2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" r6="true" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-6CP7gwQSiWs/TZYgCUD2qYI/AAAAAAAAAgs/PgaFf2gFxxk/s400/100_1350stupid2.jpg" width="300" /></a></div><br />
Of course it wasn't. You have one doe-eyed, Andrea and one blondie (in dyed disguise), Jacqueline. <br />
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You see, Andrea was scheduled to go home at 5:00p.m. on Sunday. We spent our afternoon touring the amazing James Hill Mansion in St. Paul, then lollygagged on over to Sophie Joe's Emporium because I absolutely love that shop, and it was only 3:45p.m. As we wandered out of the shop, we decided we should grab a quick bite to eat, but when we couldn't find an agreed fast food restaurant it quickly became the longest awaited bite to eat of my life. We waisted so much time trying to eat somewhere, that we realized we no longer had time to eat. We needed to get Andrea to the station ASAP.<br />
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Perfectly on time, we pulled up to the Greyhound Station. Whenever I travel by bus I go through the Greyhound Station, and when Andrea arrived, she arrived at the Greyhound Station. One would only assume she'd LEAVE at the Greyhound Station. But, no. That would be too simple for a doe and a blondie. That would have just made too much sense.<br />
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Instead, as I smiled at Andrea, ready to say our friendly and loving goodbyes... she began to un-crumple and question the address of the station on her reservation slip. At 4:50p.m., mind you.<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-1pH6uGXHfkU/TZYeIMt3w-I/AAAAAAAAAgk/QskukCc7rQw/s1600/100_1362.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" r6="true" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-1pH6uGXHfkU/TZYeIMt3w-I/AAAAAAAAAgk/QskukCc7rQw/s320/100_1362.JPG" width="240" /></a></div><br />
"I was suppose to come on MegaBus, but when I had to get a new ticket, I bought Greyhound. My ticket home is MegaBus, so is this where I'm supposed to be?"<br />
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No. Nuh-uh.Of course not.<br />
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To top things off, there was no<i> real</i> address on this reservation/ticket slip; just two intersecting road names. There wasn't even a phone number! Later, after driving the busy downtown streets of Minneapolis for 10 min, we found the vacant parking-lot that the "address" belongs to. It was exactly 5:00p.m.The lot was empty. Her bus was gone.<br />
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At that very moment, a MegaBus reading Milwaukee drove past; that's her bus! Except it wasn't stopping, it either already had, or didn't see anyone and was on its way. So we did what any 20-something-year-olds would do:<br />
<div align="center">We followed that bus.</div><br />
<div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-3Ae8hPtR_8g/TZX-ceG0CmI/AAAAAAAAAgI/whK4jVQfSrc/s1600/catch1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-3Ae8hPtR_8g/TZX-ceG0CmI/AAAAAAAAAgI/whK4jVQfSrc/s400/catch1.jpg" width="343" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: center;">Cause at times like this you need think, what would Bond do?</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="border: medium none;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-YZl8XOY47No/TZYegLvRu5I/AAAAAAAAAgo/lMGqVNk3blw/s1600/100_1358.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; height: 233px; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em; width: 319px;"><img border="0" height="240" r6="true" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-YZl8XOY47No/TZYegLvRu5I/AAAAAAAAAgo/lMGqVNk3blw/s320/100_1358.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><div style="border: medium none;"><br />
</div><div style="border: medium none;">So, Johnathan starts talking like a city boy, yelling at other cars and pedestrians to get out of his way, as if they can hear, care, or even understand that we are on the chase; Andrea's on the phone talking with friends, having them look up phone numbers, help, possible ticket options-- if all else fails; while I just alternated between frustration, nagging safety concerns and laughter, before finally settling on snapping some pictures.</div><div style="border: medium none;"><br />
</div><div style="border: medium none;">Andrea's phone calls determined that if we're following this bus, we're following it to Milwaukee. It would not be stopping. What kind of bus doesn't stop? It should stop in St. Paul, that's only normal. But, once again, why would things make sense? Besides, her MegaBus "help" line informed her, "Even if it did stop you'd have to purchase a new ticket. Why? She bought a ticket already for this very bus!</div><div style="border: medium none;"><br />
</div><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-loHQVJFXhPo/TZYB06KUmlI/AAAAAAAAAgM/P1Il17_9GsE/s1600/andicoll.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="298" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-loHQVJFXhPo/TZYB06KUmlI/AAAAAAAAAgM/P1Il17_9GsE/s320/andicoll.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">How to react? Frown and Laugh!</td></tr>
</tbody></table><div style="border: medium none;">We contemplated throwing Andrea out the sunroof, luggage and all, with the hopes that she would land safely atop her bus, get on the bus, and then resolve the issue at hand, but it seemed a little risky...she's not very Bond-like.</div><br />
Instead, we got tacos.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Q4qXs9Z03oo/TZYblv_xzPI/AAAAAAAAAgY/iJ_jbk1Ea0o/s1600/bell1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" r6="true" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Q4qXs9Z03oo/TZYblv_xzPI/AAAAAAAAAgY/iJ_jbk1Ea0o/s400/bell1.jpg" width="343" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"> </div><div style="text-align: center;"> Bond probably wouldn't eat here, but his tactics failed us, so meh.</div>While dining, Andrea purchased a new Greyhound ticket that would leave at 9:15p.m. and arrive in Milwaukee at 3:30 a.m. (ick, but ok).<br />
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Yuh, in all, this crazy girl bought FOUR tickets! Two here and two back. Two pointless tickets.<br />
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When I travel I ubber plan ahead, and I'm normally 30 min early in case I have to deal with unexpected problems; Andrea didn't convince me to ever do otherwise, but she sure was entertaining. ;)<br />
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I'd just like to add, that if this chase had been in ANY movie, this girl would have gotten on that bus. Everyone would have been smiling, even the bus driver, and Johanathan would have been a hero and Andrea would have been home, safe and happy at a reasonable hour.<br />
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But this isn't a movie. This is just real-life Minneapolis... and two foolish girls with a Johnathan, not a James. ;)<br />
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I wouldn't have it any other way!<br />
Miss ya already, Andrea! <br />
&<br />
Happy April Fools' Day, Everybody!<br />
<div align="center"></div>Jacqueline Leehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10863068442922462022noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7202695594875177200.post-20861259068123441092011-03-24T17:26:00.002-05:002011-03-25T12:13:43.319-05:00Andrea's Visiting!!So excited to have my friend Andrea visiting Minneapolis this weekend! Guess she wanted a mini-getaway, and I couldn't be happier! She gets off the bus at 5:30 and I keep checking the clock, wishing it were just that time.<br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/-T3-AhuuDWic/TYvAXFT95mI/AAAAAAAAAf8/_ugeLaeI36I/s1600/35092_10150221598750142_701325141_13488706_4771901_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="303" src="https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/-T3-AhuuDWic/TYvAXFT95mI/AAAAAAAAAf8/_ugeLaeI36I/s400/35092_10150221598750142_701325141_13488706_4771901_n.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Last year, when she visited for too short a time <3</td></tr>
</tbody></table><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><br />
Some things we plan on doing while she's here:<br />
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<a href="http://www.mallofamerica.com/home/">Mall of America</a> : Of course! People can't visit here without saying they went to <i>thee</i> mall. I go knowing I won't be buying a thing...other than a Coldstone "like it" (even tho I actually love it) cup of ice cream. I have weaknesses, ice cream is definitely one of them. Cheesecake is another. Coffee, a daily problem. Mall clothes and shoes do not make that list; thrift ones do. Oh, weaknesses...I like you.<br />
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<a href="http://www.kingtut.org/home">King Tut Exhibit</a>: EXTREMELY excited about checking this out. First time it's in MN, and I absolutely love Egyptian history! To me, this is a big deal!<br />
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<a href="http://www.mnhs.org/places/sites/jjhh/">James Hill Mansion</a>: This is something Andrea brought to my attention, and I'm all for going. Who doesn't want to tour a Victorian mansion with extensive handcrafted woodwork? This home is breathtaking! (And I haven't even toured it, yet)<br />
<div style="text-align: right;"></div><br />
A Night Out Dancing at <a href="http://www.imperialroom.com/specials.html">The Imperial Room</a>: Cause me and my gals like to shake it.<br />
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Eat Too Much: Minneapolis has a wide variety of amazing restaurants -- makes me want to <i>munga</i> all the time!<br />
I'll have to let you in on where we eat...<br />
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I also have to take her on a shop stroll through <a href="http://uptownmpls.blogspot.com/">Uptown Minneapolis </a>where I am located....I WANT TO SHOW HER EVERYTHING AND I ONLY HAVE THE WEEKEND!!! Lol<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/-r1SnCnMBckE/TYvA5Ig2nBI/AAAAAAAAAgA/5Jks2blNgXo/s1600/35138_10150222228675142_701325141_13507421_5036649_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="301" src="https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/-r1SnCnMBckE/TYvA5Ig2nBI/AAAAAAAAAgA/5Jks2blNgXo/s400/35138_10150222228675142_701325141_13507421_5036649_n.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><br />
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I'll try to take lots of pictures and share some of the fun filled weekend with you...till then,<br />
Peace, Love and Pudding Pops ;)Jacqueline Leehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10863068442922462022noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7202695594875177200.post-72824799564995990142011-03-23T16:28:00.007-05:002011-03-24T12:32:37.160-05:00Thrift Attic to Basement: 1931 CertificateI'm an avid reader and lover of books. Given the right story, I can get lost for hours. So when I was <a href="http://charmstruck.blogspot.com/2011/03/thrift-attic-to-basement-lipstick-lady.html">digging around in the basement </a>and came across this certificate, I couldn't help but smile.<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/-1d7mokSUce8/TYpIV263q0I/AAAAAAAAAfg/6WC7YFooess/s1600/Basement+003.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="304" src="https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/-1d7mokSUce8/TYpIV263q0I/AAAAAAAAAfg/6WC7YFooess/s400/Basement+003.JPG" width="400" /></a></div><br />
It is my Grandpa James Jones' First Grade Reading Certificate, dated for the 1931-1932 school year.<br />
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The photo doesn't show as clearly on blogger as I would like, but it reads:<br />
<div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: center;"><b>Wisconsin Young People's Reading Circle</b></div><div style="text-align: center;"><b>Primary Certificate</b></div><div style="text-align: center;"><b> </b></div><div style="text-align: center;">for the school year 1931-1932</div><div style="text-align: left;">This certifies that James Jones, a pupil in 1st. Grade, Bryant Graded School, Langlade County, Wisconsin, has satisfactorily read the following books, which are on the list of books of the Wisconsin Young People's Reading Circle for the school year above named, and is therefore entitled to this TESTIMONIAL of MERIT.</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: left;">The ten books my Grandpa read are listed in his teachers cursive hand:</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br />
"Surprise Stories" "In Toyland"</div><div style="text-align: left;">"Happy Children l" "Boys & Girls at Work and Play"</div><div style="text-align: left;">" " ll" Can't decipher...something "Boys"</div><div style="text-align: left;">"Wag and Puff" "At the Farm"</div><div style="text-align: left;">"Book of Pets" "Toy Town"</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: left;">Given at Antigo, Wisconsin, this 6th day of March, 1932.</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: left;">It is then signed by his teacher Helen and principle Maud. </div><div style="text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-tj-aQhGBCzg/TYpT03dBegI/AAAAAAAAAfs/q0rZjOGtZjw/s1600/wgz.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-tj-aQhGBCzg/TYpT03dBegI/AAAAAAAAAfs/q0rZjOGtZjw/s320/wgz.jpg" width="251" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">One of his listed books</td></tr>
</tbody></table><div style="text-align: left;">Many of these books have really simplistic titles, so I'd have to do a bit of research to figure out the precise ones he read. I keep wishing they had listed author names, too, but that's getting a bit thorough for a first grader I suppose....although, this plaque is pretty serious! It's certainly the most formal 1st grade certificate I've ever seen. I especially love the line, "for the school year above named" and the way "TESTIMONIAL of MERIT" is in all important caps. My young, first grade Grandpa must have felt prepared to go read aloud to a king after receiving a certificate like this!</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: left;">It would be something to go back in time and tell little boy James, that in March 2011 someone will be writing a public blog on his March 1932 certificate, wouldn't it? That's the way you get a kid to read ten books weekly! If not for the future publicity, the poor thing would research for years trying to learn what a blog is....one of these books must know! Or, more likely, he'd just shrug--Mom's gonna frame this, I'm good for the month!</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: left;">I liked learning that he went to school in Antigo. When I was growing up my Grandpa and Grandma had a beautiful home in the woods of Pickeral, WI and we used to go out to dinner and run errands in Antigo. My Grandpa traveled around a lot, lived in Rio for awhile, brought my mom and her two brothers up in Milwaukee, WI. But, I like that the town he went to school in corresponds with the thoughts I've always had of "Grandpa's house." James Jones, Antigo, WI...like he was always right where all my memories are.</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/-HJsZtfzkPWQ/TYpV0G5pfbI/AAAAAAAAAfw/9c0w6LJoZI0/s1600/Basement+007.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/-HJsZtfzkPWQ/TYpV0G5pfbI/AAAAAAAAAfw/9c0w6LJoZI0/s400/Basement+007.JPG" width="303" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Framed Photo also found in Basement</td></tr>
</tbody></table><div style="text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: left;">My Grandpa is a bit older than 1st grade here, 5th perhaps? He lived on a farm when he was young and often needed to get up at about 4 am to do his chores before walking the miles to school. In this photo he has sleepy eyes, and I can just imagine what a struggle it was to focus in class each day. He was extremely cute though, and was a handsome man his whole life. I'm the only one who was lucky enough to get his bright blue eyes, the rest of my family has hazel or brown. </div><div style="text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: left;">I lost my Grandpa Jones to a car accident when I was in 4th grade. My brother and I were very close to him, and learned a lot from him in that short time. He had an unbeatable charisma about him, and a childlike heart. I will miss him always...</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: left;">It makes me smile to come across these things; he's still telling me stories.<br />
I plan on hanging this plaque by my bookshelf. </div><div style="text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: left;">Have you ever uncovered something of sentimental value in an <a href="http://charmstruck.blogspot.com/2011/03/thrift-attic-to-basement-lipstick-lady.html">attic or basement</a>, something you hadn't known was there? </div><div style="text-align: left;"><br />
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</div>Jacqueline Leehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10863068442922462022noreply@blogger.com8tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7202695594875177200.post-85479215115550509292011-03-21T16:35:00.012-05:002011-03-22T16:32:05.488-05:00Hiding, Stalking, Thrifting<span style="color: #38761d; font-size: large;"> <span style="color: #38761d;">...all my friends are doing it?</span></span><br />
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The last two weeks I was home in WI spending needed time with family and friends. Life has been a cliche roller coaster ride, on which, I at least have my friends, throwing up their arms, screaming and inevitably laughing right alongside me. <br />
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I've learned that my therapy of choice is thrift-wandering with a friend and chatting over too many cups of coffee, which spurs more scavenger hunts than originally planned. Somehow I'm ok with this, it certainly makes for a quick recovery.<br />
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I've always preferred having a thrift partner. Everyone has their own thrifting style, and it's interesting to watch how people tackle the same secondhand store: which section they bolt to first, whether they dig or not; do they scan quickly and want to leave or do they get "lost" in the back aisles; can they pass things by, or do they have to have it? <br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/-qdwgT0XHXlM/TYeoyxs_RkI/AAAAAAAAAfM/qlmcEHWRAuM/s1600/julieB.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/-qdwgT0XHXlM/TYeoyxs_RkI/AAAAAAAAAfM/qlmcEHWRAuM/s200/julieB.jpg" width="198" /></a></div> I am friends with quite a few thrifters and no two are the same. I love thrifting with each of them for different reasons, but the most entertaining thrift gal I've got is the beautiful, the stylish, Ms. Julie Beierle. <br />
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She is going to school to become an Interior Decorator, and it shows; she definitely has a flair for finding not just beauty, but potential beauty.<br />
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Julie will hold up an over-sized shirt and turn it into the cutest dress ever by simply buckling a belt 'round it. She taught me that belts and leggings can transform just about anything into something stylish. Give her a parachute and she'll turn it into a Prada gown, I swear. She sees rundown furniture and figurines and sets off on a dramatic monologue of everything she could do with them, how she could recreate them, move this over there, place this next to that....it's very inspiring and very dangerous to go thrift shopping with Ms. Julie Beierle. <br />
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If Julie wants something she means it. She will even hide things so that she can come back and get them the next day. She will tuck a must-have item behind ugly things, shove it on a low shelf, or an out-of-reach high shelf, bury it in a pile; she's possibly one thrift breakdown away from filling out post-it-notes that read: Julies, Back Off! Julies, It's Mine! Julies, Forget About It! Julies, I Will Pry This From Your Cold Dead............Ah yes, that's Julie's thrifting technique in a nutshell. ;)<br />
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She's a little overzealous, a little too creative, and she's one of my best friends. She's crazy, in a good way, and that's exactly why I love her. She makes thrifting, and life in general, so much fun. <br />
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<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; margin-left: 1em; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/--jiVt3QSsMA/TYe2LTvBvzI/AAAAAAAAAfQ/QIVRmV9r6ck/s1600/Basement+151.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/--jiVt3QSsMA/TYe2LTvBvzI/AAAAAAAAAfQ/QIVRmV9r6ck/s320/Basement+151.JPG" width="243" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Thrifted Target Curtain</td></tr>
</tbody></table>Last week when I was shopping with her, she came rushing up to me and exclaimed, "<span style="color: #741b47;">She's got it! She's walking around holding it! She better put it down!</span>"<br />
"<span style="color: #38761d;">What are you talking about?</span>" I asked<br />
"<span style="color: #741b47;">This material! It's gorgeous and she's walking around with it! I'm going to follow her. That bitch better put it down.</span>"<br />
I laughed, "<span style="color: #38761d;">Please, Julie, don't stalk a woman. What are the chances she'll put it down?</span>"<br />
"<span style="color: #741b47;">I have to have it! It's the prettiest material I've ever seen!</span>"<br />
"<span style="color: #38761d;">I'm dissapointed in you, how'd you not get to it first?</span>"<br />
"<span style="color: #741b47;">I know! Dammit! I'm going to keep my eye on her.</span>"<br />
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And here I thought I was the Italian one. The day Julie was let out of her mother's shopping cart must have been one hell of a dangerous day, that's all I'm saying. <br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/-XNnw9sMA3BE/TYe2qTPvb4I/AAAAAAAAAfY/SLtkUINtGBM/s1600/Basement+152.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/-XNnw9sMA3BE/TYe2qTPvb4I/AAAAAAAAAfY/SLtkUINtGBM/s320/Basement+152.JPG" width="241" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Lookin' all sweet n innocent ;)</td></tr>
</tbody></table><br />
<a href="https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/-1scp8HG17q4/TYe2j0myjjI/AAAAAAAAAfU/P5oBT1AaZ0E/s1600/Basement+149.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/-1scp8HG17q4/TYe2j0myjjI/AAAAAAAAAfU/P5oBT1AaZ0E/s320/Basement+149.JPG" width="243" /></a> See, on paper, Julie sounds much crazier than she really is. I'll give her that. I'll also give her props, because that lady did put that material back. Maybe she felt Julie's hawk eyes, or maybe she heard Julie's frantic material talk from across the store, chances are this woman never wants to thrift again....it really doesn't matter. What does matter, is that in the end Ms. Julie Beierle was the lucky bitch buying that material for only $3.99.<br />
;)<br />
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<a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-Spzfm46axg4/TYe-GkEZbJI/AAAAAAAAAfc/FxAXOagNGRE/s1600/Basement+155.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-Spzfm46axg4/TYe-GkEZbJI/AAAAAAAAAfc/FxAXOagNGRE/s200/Basement+155.JPG" width="151" /></a><br />
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Any of you have a crazy, thrifty friend? Or did I snag the best one?Jacqueline Leehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10863068442922462022noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7202695594875177200.post-2143426329828456552011-03-09T19:28:00.006-06:002011-03-09T22:40:53.868-06:00Which Secondhand is the Right Hand?<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-0TeF9VNkNwk/TXgeKDICMvI/AAAAAAAAAfA/pQjXAm-yGMQ/s1600/mosow.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="228" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-0TeF9VNkNwk/TXgeKDICMvI/AAAAAAAAAfA/pQjXAm-yGMQ/s320/mosow.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">I had a little question for the wiser</td></tr>
</tbody></table><br />
Is it second hand, second-hand or secondhand? I've always written, "secondhand" when writing about used goods. Then I started reading a variety of books, articles and blogs on the topic of thrift and haven't noticed a true trend. People are using all three as adjectives, adverbs and nouns, and as messed up as the English language can get, I know that can't be right. A few years ago I took a reporting class, and we were all required to purchase <a href="http://www.apstylebook.com/">The Associated Press Stylebook</a>. This book is the rule bible for journalists (my professor said so). The book itself boasts that it's "An A to Z listing of guides to capitalization, abbreviation, spelling, numerals and usage." Well, that isn't quite boasting, it's more of a fact, and thus far Associated Press hasn't lied to me. But, yeah, when I get stuck in a tongue-tied version of typing, feeling lost and utterly confused, I dig out this book.<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/-9YH9ff8N4y8/TXgcocSKuVI/AAAAAAAAAe4/UmSvDdzHYDc/s1600/asps.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="131" src="https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/-9YH9ff8N4y8/TXgcocSKuVI/AAAAAAAAAe4/UmSvDdzHYDc/s400/asps.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><br />
When I flip to page 220 of my trusty <a href="http://www.apstylebook.com/">Stylebook</a>, it tells me all I've been wanting to know, and in such a simple, second grade way -- I honestly have a hard time accepting that secondhand shopping momentarily had me stumped beyond, "Should I buy this?" <br />
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Mr. <a href="http://www.apstylebook.com/">A.P. Style</a> states:<br />
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<b>second hand </b>(n.)<br />
<b>secondhand </b>(adj. and adv.)<br />
<i><span style="background-color: #ffd966; color: black;">Secondhand</span><span style="background-color: #ffd966;"> </span>Rose had a watch with a <span style="background-color: #ffd966;">second hand</span> that she bought <span style="background-color: #ffd966;">secondhand</span>.</i><br />
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I'd like to add that, Rosie, despite having a <span style="background-color: #ffd966; color: black;">secondhand</span> addiction, is not a fan of <span style="background-color: #ffd966;">secondhand smoke</span>.<br />
<i> </i><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-NglSFzTKShM/TXgw6Xr1HCI/AAAAAAAAAfE/GU9Cac8zmNg/s1600/smokpanda%252Cjpg.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-NglSFzTKShM/TXgw6Xr1HCI/AAAAAAAAAfE/GU9Cac8zmNg/s400/smokpanda%252Cjpg.jpg" width="263" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"> Secondhand panda puppets and secondhand smoke are a dangerous combination...</td></tr>
</tbody></table><br />
An instance where you would use a hyphen is:<br />
Rosie is a <span style="background-color: #ffd966; color: red;"><span style="color: black;">secondhand-store</span> </span><span style="background-color: #ffd966;">shopper</span>.<br />
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No hyphen: <br />
Rosie goes to all the <span style="background-color: #ffd966; color: black;">secondhand stores</span> in her area. <br />
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So according to any smartypants, moneymaking journalist "second-hand" does not apply at all to the world of thrift, or anything for that matter. Good to know. I'm glad my hands were typing "secondhand" all along. That I didn't know I was right is beside the point. ;) For now I can blog on -- minus the smartypants paycheck, but with a new found confidence that I know what the hell I'm talking about...at least when it comes to typing secondhand...until the rules change tomorrow. <br />
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<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; margin-left: 1em; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/-APWYOC3Ji70/TXgdWvC_dWI/AAAAAAAAAe8/QOu45VcfBhw/s1600/timeCN_1060.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="132" src="https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/-APWYOC3Ji70/TXgdWvC_dWI/AAAAAAAAAe8/QOu45VcfBhw/s200/timeCN_1060.jpg" width="200" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">I'll secondhand shop no matter where the second hand is!</td></tr>
</tbody></table>I'll make several other grammatical errors, but using "secondhand" in a second-rate way will not be one of them. I'll continue to dig out my <a href="http://www.apstylebook.com/">AP Stylebook</a> just for you.<br />
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I know you'll sleep better at night, now that I know what you likely knew.Jacqueline Leehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10863068442922462022noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7202695594875177200.post-91238354775088200922011-03-08T14:24:00.008-06:002011-03-08T14:47:10.535-06:00Thrift Sales: Colored Dots, Slashes and SuchThrift store prices have been on the rise; many items are marked double what they used to be. But, thrift stores have also started offering more deals, so it's still possible to make a steal worth bragging about. I'm going to share with you some thrift store sales that will benefit any budget:<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/--eOqNfos864/TXZ_gA0vWmI/AAAAAAAAAek/ZZh3mJfiiuk/s1600/sales.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="177" src="https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/--eOqNfos864/TXZ_gA0vWmI/AAAAAAAAAek/ZZh3mJfiiuk/s400/sales.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><br />
1) <span style="color: #38761d;">Daily Colored Dot Sales</span>: Most thrift stores have colored dot sales, Saint Vincent DePaul, Arc's Value Village, and Savers immediately come to mind. Everyday these stores feature a color (there will be signs scattered throughout the store, usually on the clothing racks, advertising the days color), and any tags that have that color are 50% off. This is my favorite deal, because it is a guaranteed constant. Nothing beats falling in love with an item, followed by the realization that it carries the colored dot of day -- it's my miniature Vegas moment. <br />
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<a href="https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/-cCyw-sUvz84/TXaGHTqNIII/AAAAAAAAAew/QuEPxYbSByQ/s1600/Picnik+collage.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/-cCyw-sUvz84/TXaGHTqNIII/AAAAAAAAAew/QuEPxYbSByQ/s400/Picnik+collage.jpg" width="173" /></a> 2) <span style="color: #741b47;">Coupons</span>: This one is new to me. Just last week, I found in <a href="http://clippermagazine.com/">Clipper Magazine </a>four coupons to the local Slinger Saint Vinnies. One coupon proclaimed: <i>buy one book get the second book free</i>, and being the bookworm that I am I was pretty excited. It's strange now that thrift stores suddenly have commercials and are featuring coupons; a few years ago it seemed like only a small handful of people were thrifters, and that has seemingly changed over night. Being able to clip coupons for secondhand goods is pretty nifty. I know I want to use them! <br />
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3) <span style="color: #38761d;">Student Discount Days</span>: College friends of mine, did you know that one day a week you can get 40% off your thrifted total if you flash your school ID. I know that at Savers in MN this day is Wednesday. Goodwill in WI also does the student discount on Saturdays. This discount is ideal if the items you've found that day do not have a colored dot or grander sale. If any items you are buying already have a higher percentage off, you cannot additionally use your ID; you've won a good enough deal already, champ!<br />
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4) <span style="color: #741b47;">75% Off Storewide Sale</span>: You cannot beat this sale. You'll feel like you're stealing everything you find. These are the days I go thrift crazy. I'll come home with a bag full of clothes and a wallet (still) <i>full</i> of money.<br />
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5)<span style="color: #38761d;"> Fill a Bag for $5</span>: I don't see this sale as much as I used to. Filling a bag for five bucks now seems reserved for places going out of business. The last fill a bag spree I went on was amazing, but it was quite a few years ago. I remember coming home with several books that I couldn't wait to read. The best part about this sale is that there is no standing around debating, "Should I get this?" You just like it and bag it!<br />
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6)<span style="color: #741b47;"> Holiday Sales</span>: Holiday sales vary in greatness. Some are huge, while others aren't worth writing home about. One thing holiday sales have the potential to bring about is pure, memorable fun. In Hartford, WI a few weeks before Christmas, the town shops have Midnight Madness. On this night, all the shops in town stay open till midnight and offer different deals and entertainment. My favorite places to stop on this night are <a href="http://www.percplace.com/">Perc Place</a>, for an energizing mocha drink, and then I travel over a few steps "next door" to Saint Vincent DePaul and do some late-night, coffee enhanced thrifting with friends. Last year, Saint Vinnies was packed and offered a variety of worthwhile discounts. Even if you don't find a got-to-have thrift item or gift, these holiday shopping nights are still wonderful. What thrifter doesn't dream of wandering a thrift shop till midnight? I dream of thrifting past the stroke of midnight...<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-aTK2OCLw0gE/TXaAY8zpOjI/AAAAAAAAAeo/Gb_P_HA0CEw/s1600/sales2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-aTK2OCLw0gE/TXaAY8zpOjI/AAAAAAAAAeo/Gb_P_HA0CEw/s400/sales2.jpg" width="343" /></a></div>7)<span style="color: #38761d;"> Slashed Tag Sales</span>: This deal is common at Saint Vincent DePaul. The slashed red tag deals seem to be offered when the seasons are changing. So, right now, Vinnies is holding a slashed tag sale (at least here in WI they are). It's time to rid of the sweaters and bring out the shorts, and a lot of tags are getting slashed. Currently at the Slinger Saint Vinnies, there is also a purple dot sale: anything with a purple dot is 50 cents, and there's a whole section of purple dots! Since they're organized in one spot, it's less of a scavenger hunt than usual. Like I said, slashed tag deals can always be had when the season starts to change, luckily we have four!<br />
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8) <span style="color: #741b47;">Thrift Store Card/ Membership</span>: At home in WI, the Saint Vincent DePaul now has a store card that will get you a 10% discount off your total purchase, any day, any time. It is a key chain card, much like what grocery stores give out, and it is good for all the SVDPs in the area. So my WI card is good for the Slinger, Hartford and West Bend locations. Goodwill also has a member card. Their card follows a point system where you receive a point for every dollar you spend, and then after so many points you receive a discount on your next purchase. The best part is, these membership cards are free; Saint Vinnies gives you your 10% discount right at registering, while Goodwill gives a 25% discount right at the get go. The discounts may seem small, but for frequent thrifters the savings add up!<br />
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9) <span style="color: #38761d;">The Haggle</span>: The skill of haggling is meant more for yard sales, but there are times when it's worth a shot inside secondhand shops. If you find an item that you love but, there is a defect, you can and should haggle, as long as the tag DOES NOT SAY, <i>as is</i>. Many flaws are caught at pricing and will have the <i>as is</i> tagging, but there's a good handful of flaws that miss inspection. When at the register simply point out the defect and offer what price you're willing to pay, the cashier will usually give a 20-40% off discount, depending on the damage. Crafters, artists and repurposers everywhere should develop this skill. Haggling is definitely worth shoving aside shyness; there's no reason to pay full price for something broken.<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/-ZLypmSCDWSs/TXaAiIoHipI/AAAAAAAAAes/neZXGbmiD3o/s1600/sale1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="242" src="https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/-ZLypmSCDWSs/TXaAiIoHipI/AAAAAAAAAes/neZXGbmiD3o/s320/sale1.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><br />
10) <span style="color: #38761d;"><span style="color: #741b47;">The Good Eye</span>: <span style="color: black;">The best deal can be found without dots or slashes or sales. It takes a bit of digging, dedicated searching, and a small dose of knowing, but a steal can definitely be had without a sale. Knowing what things are worth at retail helps <i>a ton</i>, you'll better gadge if an item is really worth the green or not. Items can be overpriced, sometimes to the point of being pricier than retail. But, right behind that overpriced item could be a treasure for cheap. A good thrift-eye will always find these no-sale-steals, they're the items of pride we thrifters can't help but brag about. </span></span><br />
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<span style="color: #38761d;"><span style="color: black;">If you want to get a better grip on the sales at your local thrift stores, simply ask the cashier. They are always more than happy to answer sales questions. One question I often ask cashiers is: When will a particular colored dot sale be happening? Because on any given day, I might find several orange dot items and be in dire need of an orange dot sale. The colored dot sales do follow a rotation, and the cashier can tell you the next date for each color by simply glancing at a chart near their register. I've even called stores before dashing out the door to inquire if any sales were going on; then I can plan my stops accordingly (especially with gas prices going up). It makes my thrifting thriftier; I've definitely gotten more bang for my buck by learning the various thrift store sales, and so will you!</span></span><br />
<span style="color: #38761d;"><span style="color: black;"> </span></span><br />
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<span style="color: #38761d;"><span style="color: black;">Any other thrift sales you know of? </span></span>Jacqueline Leehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10863068442922462022noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7202695594875177200.post-70728068721609101632011-03-07T12:35:00.004-06:002011-03-07T20:20:12.273-06:00Thrift Attic to Basement: Lipstick LadyOne of my favorite places for discovery is the basement. People hideaway some interesting stuff in their basements, and as life upstairs takes over they begin to forget it even exists. What makes the boxes down in the basement so interesting to me is that these boxes are full of stuff people could not let go of; basements typically hideaway the treasures people currently have no use for, but can't bear to part with.<br />
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I say, let's pull those boxes out of the corner, brush off the cobwebs, and start unwrapping our forgotten memories. At least, that's what I did with my mom on Sunday. My mom will be having a rummage sale in May, and she wanted to know if there was anything of my Grandma and Grandpa's that I wanted to keep. There certainly was. So much so, in fact, that over the next <i>few weeks </i>I will be sharing an item here and there that once belonged to the basement, and now belongs to me. <br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/-dy7uYr4VMSg/TXUjOi5lxFI/AAAAAAAAAeY/Z77Oxg5vK5s/s1600/Basement+collage.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="392" src="https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/-dy7uYr4VMSg/TXUjOi5lxFI/AAAAAAAAAeY/Z77Oxg5vK5s/s400/Basement+collage.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><span style="color: #741b47;">Ever thrift in your own attic or basement? </span>The prices are amazing! Thrifting in the basement is as exciting as perusing a store, because the mind fogs over and forgets what's been packed away. What one couldn't put to use, but couldn't let go of a few years ago, could very well be the very thing they need to tie a room together today.<br />
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To me, my mom's basement is an eclectic antique shop. Imagine a shop only filled with your family's belongings; each loved one's personal style; their memories...that's what many basements are, and it is inspiring.<br />
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I'm going to start sharing today with a little charm.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/-3EvjTkzNYwA/TXUmB30wkRI/AAAAAAAAAec/bC8gcLD2X2I/s1600/Basement+036.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/-3EvjTkzNYwA/TXUmB30wkRI/AAAAAAAAAec/bC8gcLD2X2I/s400/Basement+036.JPG" width="303" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div>This darling Lipstick Lady belonged to my Grandma Jones. She's a vintage Chadwick figurine and was made in Japan, which makes sense, because while digging through the boxes in the basement I quickly learned that my Grandma collected a variety of Japanese items (wait till you see the "new" tea set I acquired!). These Lipstick Ladies were made in the late 50's early 60's, and were a popular vanity item. When I saw this figurines sweet face I quickly pulled her out of the box, but was at first puzzled by her purpose. I thought <i>toothbrush holder</i>, and just as quickly acknowledged that the loops were way too big for that, plus three toothbrushes would block her precious face. I held her up to my mom and said, "I love her, but I have no clue what she's meant to hold." When she told me lipstick, I fell in love with the little 6'' inch figurine even more.<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/-WROo7r5OPaU/TXUVXUGJmOI/AAAAAAAAAeQ/L2YhnY_ZKIE/s1600/Basement+029.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="303" src="https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/-WROo7r5OPaU/TXUVXUGJmOI/AAAAAAAAAeQ/L2YhnY_ZKIE/s400/Basement+029.JPG" width="400" /></a></div><br />
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<i>I'll add a little vintage to your vanity, and sweetly hold your lipstick till you get back</i> -- I'm not one for pink, but this charmer won me. She also reminds me of my Grandma's style, her must-have pink lipstick and her room full of fancy lady figurines. This is one overly girly item I just need to keep.<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-lEn42gX_qOM/TXUmcwgyXqI/AAAAAAAAAeg/8321Ln-2anE/s1600/HPIM2802.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-lEn42gX_qOM/TXUmcwgyXqI/AAAAAAAAAeg/8321Ln-2anE/s400/HPIM2802.JPG" width="303" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><br />
I'm thinking for the next several Attic to Basement posts I might attempt to do a linsky. It would be fun to see what treasures others have hiding in their homes. It's free thrifting, it's spring cleaning, and it's surprisingly way too much fun.<br />
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Hope you'll link up to the next Thrift Attic to Basement post -- just wait until you see what else I all found!Jacqueline Leehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10863068442922462022noreply@blogger.com8tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7202695594875177200.post-86824845147774631172011-02-21T14:24:00.003-06:002011-03-11T00:27:14.229-06:00Thrift Man, You Give Me Fever<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div>The <a href="http://charmstruck.blogspot.com/2011/02/funkn-fashion-show-of-thrift.html">Funk'n Thrift Fashion Show </a>got me thinking about men and their thrifted fashions. My man has built up quite the thrift clothing collection since we first met. Johnathan has a good sense of style, and his co-workers have even come to call him the Thrift King (I just hope they know he learned it from the Thrift Queen). ;) Either way, any thrifter deemed royalty by the people has a closet worth peeking into.<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-F2O0rvevCz0/TWK-SaxLfgI/AAAAAAAAAd8/i2Qv-dsUnx8/s1600/jkt.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-F2O0rvevCz0/TWK-SaxLfgI/AAAAAAAAAd8/i2Qv-dsUnx8/s400/jkt.jpg" width="145" /></a></div><br />
First, I gotta say what I know other thriftland ladies are thinking:<br />
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<i><span style="color: #741b47;">There's something about a thrift man that gives me fever.</span></i><br />
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Most anyone reading this blog already has thrift fever minus men.<br />
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I mean, fever isn't such a new thing, thrift fever started long ago. Throw an attractive man who likes to thrift into the equation, and ladies, we've got <span style="color: #cc0000;">T</span>rouble.<br />
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Recently, Johnathan was stag thrifting and purchased a George's sport coat from <a href="http://www.foundthrift.com/Foundthrift/Welcome.html">The Lost and Found </a>. It quickly became one of his favorite clothing items. This tan corduroy sport coat is great for a guy like him, as he can dress it down with jeans, a t shirt and baseball cap or dress it up with a dress shirt and tie; either way he's lookin' sharp.<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div>When I checked out the George's website it seems their sport coats start at $99 and escalate from there. I'm not sure of the original value of this particular corduroy coat, but I do know Johnathan has snagged a secondhand steal here. 100 some dollars? 10 dollars? 100 some dollars? 10 dollars? <span style="color: #38761d;">hmmmmmmmm</span><br />
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</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-a2MSw4k0AYY/TWK8dyLhqII/AAAAAAAAAd0/LYCM7HvDZxE/s1600/jcasfanc.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="368" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-a2MSw4k0AYY/TWK8dyLhqII/AAAAAAAAAd0/LYCM7HvDZxE/s400/jcasfanc.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"> T shirt & cap Dress shirt and vintage tie</td></tr>
</tbody></table><div style="text-align: center;">And, yes, both looks give me fever.<br />
I can't even pick one over the other.</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br />
The T shirt, baseball cap, and sports jacket combination is the look Johnathan usually ops for and I love it. He even wore this particular outfit to the <a href="http://charmstruck.blogspot.com/2011/02/funkn-fashion-show-of-thrift.html">Funk'n Fashion Show</a> and, I may be biased, but he was one of the sharpest looking guys there. Johnathan truly puts together thrifted pieces in a stylish way that's all his own. He's a pretty awesome thrifting partner to have, king or not. </div><div style="text-align: left;"></div><div style="text-align: left;"></div><div style="text-align: left;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-8SPN7m-yl7U/TWLDbN0EvwI/AAAAAAAAAeE/Op26SRtS0VU/s1600/us2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="300" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-8SPN7m-yl7U/TWLDbN0EvwI/AAAAAAAAAeE/Op26SRtS0VU/s400/us2.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Thrift man, you give me fever!</td></tr>
</tbody></table><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div style="text-align: left;"></div><div style="text-align: left;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><iframe allowfullscreen='allowfullscreen' webkitallowfullscreen='webkitallowfullscreen' mozallowfullscreen='mozallowfullscreen' width='320' height='266' src='https://www.youtube.com/embed/JGb5IweiYG8?feature=player_embedded' frameborder='0'></iframe></div></div><div style="text-align: left;">So to all you thrift men out there, thanks for giving us ladies a little eye candy & compliments to your secondhand style!!</div>Jacqueline Leehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10863068442922462022noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7202695594875177200.post-67505207003938083612011-02-19T18:55:00.002-06:002011-02-19T20:00:08.990-06:00Cute Stove Looking for a Hot Teapot<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div>At all times I have in my head a tiny <span style="color: purple;">thrift wish list</span>, a few specific items I've placed patience on in order to find them secondhand. If an item is on my thrift list, I will not cave and buy it retail. Most of my material wishes make it to the thrift list; not many material things in this life are urgent. One item that is on my thrift wish list is a retro teapot, or any enamel teapot that tugs my heartstrings. My only real criteria for this thrift teapot I am trying to find is that it be a kettle and please my dreamy eye.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-L2gs8dy2ZQ4/TWBR7WDYBoI/AAAAAAAAAdU/tKIPzw8JFns/s1600/dreamkit.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="265" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-L2gs8dy2ZQ4/TWBR7WDYBoI/AAAAAAAAAdU/tKIPzw8JFns/s400/dreamkit.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="color: purple;">Daydream of my retro kitchen, teapot included </span></td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-ibu0LlI6JUE/TWBTPFPtn-I/AAAAAAAAAdY/JgyXwat2Szk/s1600/Blustv.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="200" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-ibu0LlI6JUE/TWBTPFPtn-I/AAAAAAAAAdY/JgyXwat2Szk/s200/Blustv.jpg" width="136" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="color: purple;">Cutie in need of a hot teapot</span></td></tr>
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In my imaginary kitchen, I always see a quaint, verging on cute stove with an adorable teapot atop it. Now that I drink tea almost every evening, I truly do desire a teapot that is more than decorative. It's funny that I developed a liking for tea in the last year, I used to only drink tea if I was sick or eating Chinese food, and then one day my adult tongue started thinking, <i>Tea! A spot of tea is what we need</i>! And so it came to be.<br />
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I have stumbled upon a few potential teapots, but they haven't been <span style="color: purple;">The One.</span> Common problems have been: they're too chipped, out of my price approval, or the inside has rusted. But I know that I will find my teapot soon, my Mrs. Potts is out there, I just need to find her. <br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-H9jMClbjjis/TWBT4eUCWDI/AAAAAAAAAdc/Kz_OUN4Sh_Q/s1600/birdpot.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="265" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-H9jMClbjjis/TWBT4eUCWDI/AAAAAAAAAdc/Kz_OUN4Sh_Q/s400/birdpot.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="color: #cc0000;">Red & Aqua. Brilliant & Beautiful.</span></td></tr>
</tbody></table><br />
This teapot would be ideal and it<i> </i>is<i> </i>available on Etsy <a href="http://www.etsy.com/listing/68099790/vintage-corning-country-festival?ref=sr_gallery_15&ga_search_query=vintage+teapot&ga_page=3&ga_search_type=handmade&ga_facet=handmade">here</a>, except I'm determined to thrift hunt my own, the buy always feels more meant to be. This teapot is pretty cute, though. I do have an unwavering crush on aqua and red together, but I'm pretty set on meeting my match in a thrift store. I'm pretty confidant I'll find something just as cute and not have to pay shipping or waste packaging.<br />
Fingers crossed! xx<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-wuSBqKRF8pw/TWBY3Lu_tvI/AAAAAAAAAdg/wkJI6fwFAEM/s1600/teas.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="238" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-wuSBqKRF8pw/TWBY3Lu_tvI/AAAAAAAAAdg/wkJI6fwFAEM/s320/teas.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><br />
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</tbody></table><br />
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And how perfect is this <a href="http://www.etsy.com/listing/65621565/teapot-tea-infuser-silver-teapot-tea?ref=sr_gallery_37&ga_search_query=vintage+teapot&ga_page=12&ga_search_type=handmade&ga_facet=handmade">teapot tea infuser</a> for a Charmstruck girl?<br />
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Sigh. Hopefully I'll find my teapot in time for the tea party. I haven't been invited to one yet, but it'll happen. <span style="color: purple;">*</span><span style="color: black;">hint</span><span style="color: black; font-size: x-small;">hint<span style="font-size: xx-small;">hint</span></span><span style="color: purple;">*</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: small;">Excuse my many imaginings today, I'm sick in bed and this is all making me feel much, much better. :)</span>Jacqueline Leehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10863068442922462022noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7202695594875177200.post-24574669695064443152011-02-17T17:04:00.005-06:002011-02-18T16:00:21.860-06:00Jewelry Tree StandOn top of everything I discussed in <a href="http://charmstruck.blogspot.com/2011/02/unveiling-valentine.html">Unveiling the Valentine</a>, my Valentine's Day gift was a beautiful, white Jewelry Tree Stand. It was even adorned with jewelry for me. The pictures I took show a mix of jewelry Johnathan got me along with pieces I already owned.<br />
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</div><div class="MsoNormal">One of my favorite parts about this present was the presentation. The surprise and laughter. Even moments before receiving my tree stand, Johnathan had me laughing, eyes covered, as he tilted me to the side telling me to watch my head. There's nothing above my head, we're in your room. I laughed. Whoa! Whoa! Duck down! He exclaimed, as he pushed on the back of my shoulder, and bent me over. You're being silly! There's nothing there! I giggled. He uncovered my eyes, and there on his dresser was a veil of bright yellow tissue paper covering my beautiful jewelry tree stand.</div><br />
<div style="text-align: center;">This gift is truly fantastic! </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-lo41jjB3_r8/TV2jaUF4RUI/AAAAAAAAAdI/O84A62DgW7I/s1600/100_1271.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-lo41jjB3_r8/TV2jaUF4RUI/AAAAAAAAAdI/O84A62DgW7I/s400/100_1271.JPG" width="300" /></a></div><br />
Although I do not have lots of jewelry, what I do have tends to become a tangled, unorganized mess. And I'm getting a little too old to have my jewelry all knotted in a ball, even if it is hidden discretely within a deceptively pretty jewelery box.<br />
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At Christmas time my brother, Tony, also gifted me a wonderful jewelry organizer. It's a large jewelry box that hangs on the wall and appears to only be a multi-photo picture frame. I like to imagine people visiting and admiring my photographs while I alone know that handfuls of rubies and diamonds lye behind each memory. Really there's just some plastic beads and a bit of sterling silver...but they'll never know! ;) I'd love to share it with you, but I'll have to share photos of it another day, since it is back home in WI at the moment. <br />
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Jewelry is just one of those things that looks all glamorous until you own it. Once it's tangled and piled under five other necklaces, the glitzy glamor of it quickly fades and you're left standing there wishing you had some new, pretty jewelry to wear. Whereas, if we could just keep them on display all delicate and dainty, the temptation to wear them would last a lot longer; just like in the store, these tricks will get us every time.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-919q46-wbxA/TV2jqwBtIkI/AAAAAAAAAdM/UhMXSoNbBfg/s1600/100_1272.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-919q46-wbxA/TV2jqwBtIkI/AAAAAAAAAdM/UhMXSoNbBfg/s400/100_1272.JPG" width="300" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Keep my eye on the sparkles</td></tr>
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I'm also guilty of not remembering to wear the jewelry I own. Out of sight out of mind, I suppose. So this little Jewelry Tree will help keep my eyes on the sparkles and remind me to wear what I've been thoughtfully given.<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-YT232Jjrf_Y/TV2kCvmzp3I/AAAAAAAAAdQ/OeQSpFSplVI/s1600/100_1285.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-YT232Jjrf_Y/TV2kCvmzp3I/AAAAAAAAAdQ/OeQSpFSplVI/s400/100_1285.JPG" width="300" /></a></div><br />
It's also just right because it coordinates perfectly with the poster Johnathan created, tying everything together nicely. This Jewelry Tree Stand was a sweet gift that helped me get a little more organized, and I just love looking at it!Jacqueline Leehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10863068442922462022noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7202695594875177200.post-12460615312380773202011-02-17T13:18:00.002-06:002011-02-25T13:45:26.232-06:00Unveiling the Valentine<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-xrSf7Z03eeo/TV1XmWnc3kI/AAAAAAAAAck/-tUoPNdSHZE/s1600/100_1099.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-xrSf7Z03eeo/TV1XmWnc3kI/AAAAAAAAAck/-tUoPNdSHZE/s320/100_1099.JPG" width="320" /></a>I feel guilty admitting it, but I've had more of a Valentine's Month. I'm spoiled and I know it. I acknowledge it, and I appreciate it in ways I can't even explain. My Valentine's Month started in a grocery store parking lot when Johnathan came to the car holding a bouquet of vibrant flowers for me -- no real reason. The first week of February holds no valid significance within our relationship, he just wanted to make me smile, I guess, and it worked.<br />
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Well, my flowers died quickly (as flowers tend to do) and I kept postponing their inevitable toss out. Johnathan even brought it up, informing me that they were dead and that I should throw them out. I frowned. I will. Not yet. I know they're limp; they've wilted; they're brown. I just hate the end of a pretty bouquet.<br />
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The memory of that bouquet was quickly replaced, though. Two days later, during the second week of February, I received another unexpected bouquet of flowers. This time they were intoxicating, fragrant Lilies. I awoke to them, along with a raspberry jelly donut that I had been (verbally) craving for weeks! Johnathan had already left for work and missed my crazed reaction; I was thrilled!<br />
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One -- I got my donut! Two -- I have never, ever received flowers two weeks in a row! I wouldn't even fathom it as a possibility! I just felt...adored.<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-2qM8zNtCS4I/TV1X6SbmYVI/AAAAAAAAAco/espS5ocR1gs/s1600/100_1155.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-2qM8zNtCS4I/TV1X6SbmYVI/AAAAAAAAAco/espS5ocR1gs/s400/100_1155.JPG" width="400" /></a></div> <br />
<div style="text-align: center;"> I am so very lucky.</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-E0-aoRAk8-w/TV1YPUQWElI/AAAAAAAAAcs/JPE3nrCLNy8/s1600/100_1165.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-E0-aoRAk8-w/TV1YPUQWElI/AAAAAAAAAcs/JPE3nrCLNy8/s400/100_1165.JPG" width="396" /></a></div><br />
I would never ask for these things. I'm not that kind of girl. If he didn't do these sweet gestures I wouldn't doubt his love; I know he loves me. Weeks of fading flowers isn't what proves love to me, it's the weeks of unfailing friendship and dedication that does.<br />
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The jelly donut on the other hand...I need that. To survive. If it weren't for donuts we probably would have dumped each other a looooong time ago. If you're disappointed in me, I must ask, did you <i>see</i> the photo above!?! ;)<br />
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</div><div style="text-align: center;"> Don't worry, I don't just take-take-take. I try my best to be what he deserves too.</div><br />
As I said in the <a href="http://charmstruck.blogspot.com/2011/01/cant-buy-me-love-cards.html">Can't Buy Me Love post</a>, I don't believe in buying love cards. Love shouldn't be proclaimed by a Hallmark harper, it should be proclaimed by thee lover. Making your own card also opens up recycling options! Instead of wasting, you're reusing.<br />
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</div><div style="text-align: center;">So today I'll unveil this years homemade Valentine for Johnathan -- I promised I would!</div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-2sory_RugZM/TV1jyysAWqI/AAAAAAAAAc0/lSH85Nl008k/s1600/100_1289.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-2sory_RugZM/TV1jyysAWqI/AAAAAAAAAc0/lSH85Nl008k/s400/100_1289.JPG" width="400" /></a></div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-rUfBc2ZiMGc/TV1m9GdR6HI/AAAAAAAAAc8/FmvafnlwIV0/s1600/100_1265.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="150" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-rUfBc2ZiMGc/TV1m9GdR6HI/AAAAAAAAAc8/FmvafnlwIV0/s200/100_1265.JPG" width="200" /></a></div>To accomplish this I cut colorful schnibblets from a local newspaper I had on hand. As I cut them, I kept them in organized color piles so that it wouldn't take too long piecing my seahorse together. I then drew the seahorse by hand, as you can see I somewhat diverged from my original drawing as I got gluing. I also made sure to place a few newspaper words within my seahorse, such as "Valentine" and "Love You Easy."<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-hLYt5SfkdPE/TV1nTCboqRI/AAAAAAAAAdA/vePthHXPxbA/s1600/100_1264.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-hLYt5SfkdPE/TV1nTCboqRI/AAAAAAAAAdA/vePthHXPxbA/s400/100_1264.JPG" width="300" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Creating is about getting creative -- there are no rules!</td></tr>
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It turned out to be a pretty crazy looking Valentine! Best part is that this seahorse is an inside joke between Johnathan and I. <a href="http://charmstruck.blogspot.com/2011/01/cant-buy-me-love-cards.html">As I've said before</a>, linking the crafts you make to the things that hold meaning will always turn out a great success; it's simply more touching and meaningful. This Valentine took me longer than I thought it would, but it was totally worth it!<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-9cF7i7gMcT4/TV1pG3syW4I/AAAAAAAAAdE/eLsv2aaVJ98/s1600/100_1266.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="300" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-9cF7i7gMcT4/TV1pG3syW4I/AAAAAAAAAdE/eLsv2aaVJ98/s400/100_1266.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The tissue is holding a Lucky Bamboo plant I bought John for his desk...future post! :) And yes, I used my bouquet paper for wrapping gifts. It's pretty!</td></tr>
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Did you make a Valentine this year? Perhaps you received a handmade card? If so, I'd love to see it! Feel free to share a link to your Valentine in the comments section! I always enjoy hearing from you!Jacqueline Leehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10863068442922462022noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7202695594875177200.post-67968257390540408832011-02-15T15:31:00.001-06:002011-02-15T20:24:48.035-06:00Funk'n Fashion Show of ThriftThis weekend I attended every thrifters' dream: a fashion show<i> completely </i>compiled of secondhand style. The February 11, 2011 <a href="http://www.foundthrift.com/Foundthrift/Welcome.html">St. Valentine's Funk'n Fashion Show at The Lost and Found </a>was <i>amazing</i>! I attended last years Funk'n Fashion Show, but this years has it beat, hands down! Not only did the show have an insane energy level from start to finish, but it was longer (which meant MORE vintage outfits!), had a jammin' live intermission, DJ Rambo Salinas, crackers & cheeeese (I'm easy to please!), and did I mention it was sponsored by <a href="http://www.pabstblueribbon.com/AgeVerification.aspx">Pabst</a>? Needless to say, no one went thirsty! Plus, there were tons of <a href="http://www.pabstblueribbon.com/AgeVerification.aspx">PBR</a> freebies! Oh, and I can't forget the near indescribable, vast array of models: Hot, cute, classy, sassy, funky; they were there! The best part was, model after model strutted their stuff and proved that thrifty, vintage items are <i>far</i> from faded and falling apart, and oh so far from being out of style, quite the opposite; thrift's trendy! Secondhand is sexy! I wish you had been there with me! I'll give you a little sneak peak this time, just don't miss it next year!<br />
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Check out <a href="http://www.foundthrift.com/Foundthrift/Welcome.html">The Lost and Found's</a> funk'n thrift fashions:<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-ZtyEFzAEHGw/TVrZqkHt7eI/AAAAAAAAAcM/elUDgDPPGpY/s1600/rbcoll.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="370" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-ZtyEFzAEHGw/TVrZqkHt7eI/AAAAAAAAAcM/elUDgDPPGpY/s400/rbcoll.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><div class="" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Any fashion show involving roller blades...rocks!</div><div class="" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-KDcFnKJkxzM/TVrUSVGCfQI/AAAAAAAAAbg/yxCYM4Ey-tw/s1600/100_1227.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-KDcFnKJkxzM/TVrUSVGCfQI/AAAAAAAAAbg/yxCYM4Ey-tw/s400/100_1227.JPG" width="300" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Each and every model was bustin' out some sexy, confidant moves! </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-vR0a4DgygYE/TVrayMxKbnI/AAAAAAAAAcQ/WzrfXyojzmM/s1600/yelcol.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="296" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-vR0a4DgygYE/TVrayMxKbnI/AAAAAAAAAcQ/WzrfXyojzmM/s320/yelcol.jpg" style="cursor: move;" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">A burst of vintage yellow brightened the show</div><div class="" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-Bgx3ZmTuyy8/TVrbek0XCQI/AAAAAAAAAcU/sMPIMgmwh4M/s1600/redcol.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="370" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-Bgx3ZmTuyy8/TVrbek0XCQI/AAAAAAAAAcU/sMPIMgmwh4M/s400/redcol.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div style="text-align: left;"> </div><div style="text-align: center;">This wonderfully put together piece was one of <i>many</i> favorites...</div><br />
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</div><div class="" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Feel like thrifting yet? I do...</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> because, let's face it-- Thrifting is Bad Ass</div><div class="" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
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</div><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-UEq1sLVMERQ/TVrcPk3_lCI/AAAAAAAAAcY/QbUxqRIBd-s/s1600/mencol.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="296" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-UEq1sLVMERQ/TVrcPk3_lCI/AAAAAAAAAcY/QbUxqRIBd-s/s640/mencol.jpg" width="640" /></a><br />
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</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> And THEN there's those thrifty, stylin' men</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> *Sigh* If I could, I'd go to a Funk'n Thrift Fashion Show every. single. week. I would!</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-Y1CxmNuD4hw/TVrd7o0IZgI/AAAAAAAAAcg/kP8KdCcoxhk/s1600/100_1245.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-Y1CxmNuD4hw/TVrd7o0IZgI/AAAAAAAAAcg/kP8KdCcoxhk/s400/100_1245.JPG" width="300" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">I was sad to see them go.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">You can never get too much thrift fashion.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">EVER!</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> Notice how close I am? VIP, baby. I could practically TOUCH thrift fashion...but I didn't, cause that would've come across as kind of thrift-stalker-ish... and I'm trying to keep that under wraps. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">* sips <a href="http://www.pabstblueribbon.com/AgeVerification.aspx">PBR</a> nervously*</div><br />
Anywho, <a href="http://www.foundthrift.com/Foundthrift/Welcome.html">The Lost and Found's</a> fashion show further proves my point: fashion is affordable--<br />
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</div><div style="text-align: center;">Get creative! Get thrifting!</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> I hope you all had a Funk'n Valentine's Day! Obviously I did!</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-7-qzQsg0lCI/TVrXK29uCgI/AAAAAAAAAcI/s_41wylBiLg/s1600/100_1244.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-jxkRNOlyKlw/TVrXKb7g9yI/AAAAAAAAAcE/hKSw9LNuaAY/s1600/100_1237.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"></a>Jacqueline Leehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10863068442922462022noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7202695594875177200.post-17000601746795373642011-02-10T15:02:00.003-06:002011-02-10T16:13:11.354-06:00The City of Lakes Luminary Loppet<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div>Since this last weekend in Minneapolis was "warmer" than usual, I was excited to bundle-up and spend some time outside. <a href="http://www.cityoflakesloppet.com/index.php?option=com_content&view=article&id=148&Itemid=19">The City of Lakes Luminary Loppet </a>was taking place, so I would have even braved negative numbers to check it out. I always get overly excited about seeing the snow sculptures, and the hundreds of stunning candles flickering inside of already luminescent ice.<br />
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<div style="text-align: center;">Plus, the viewing was free!</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-sL_uilsIf80/TVQosf6EOaI/AAAAAAAAAa8/L9HygGCNZmM/s1600/100_1119.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-sL_uilsIf80/TVQosf6EOaI/AAAAAAAAAa8/L9HygGCNZmM/s320/100_1119.JPG" width="240" /></a><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-R-i-a408uZ4/TVQpTkwkneI/AAAAAAAAAbA/26v8A8czgd8/s1600/100_1118.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-R-i-a408uZ4/TVQpTkwkneI/AAAAAAAAAbA/26v8A8czgd8/s200/100_1118.JPG" width="150" /></a></div><br />
My favorite ice sculpture there was Yogi Bear on skis, accompanied by the infamous picnic basket. Yogi has always been one of my dad's favorite cartoons, so this one got me missing him and feeling a little homesick. Miss you, Dad!<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-zqJ89Lcq9_w/TVQp9Y2jeVI/AAAAAAAAAbE/t7XgdBx_zb8/s1600/100_1120.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-zqJ89Lcq9_w/TVQp9Y2jeVI/AAAAAAAAAbE/t7XgdBx_zb8/s400/100_1120.JPG" width="300" /></a></div><br />
Since we are in Minnesota, no collection of snow sculptures would be complete without a fearsome Viking! The detail of his beard alone is impressive!<br />
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Another one that I found interesting was a totem-like Indian sculpture. Perhaps it was the powerful and promising sun that drew me in....<br />
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Spring!Spring!Spring!Spring?<br />
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-sxF_O6OFJKk/TVQ172zXucI/AAAAAAAAAbU/8Oaga_jju2I/s1600/100_1132.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-sxF_O6OFJKk/TVQ172zXucI/AAAAAAAAAbU/8Oaga_jju2I/s200/100_1132.JPG" width="150" /></a><br />
But what really makes the<a href="http://www.cityoflakesloppet.com/index.php?option=com_content&view=article&id=148&Itemid=19"> Loppet Extravaganza</a> impossible to ignore is the ice illumination. There isn't just a glowing pyramid-- the lake is literally surrounded by ice cube candles, even the bridges are lined with lights. It's a pretty romantic stroll for couples, as long as you don't mind dodging everyone's skis. Last year I totally tripped on some grumpy guys skis and got hollered at, but most everyone at the Luminary Loppet is in smiley good spirits. Without some girl tripping up your skis, how could you not be smiling? It's beautiful! And there's hot cocoa! The Luminary Loppet is an especially great event for children. Several children were pulled along in their sleds, and they lit up brighter than the illuminated lake as they took in the sculptures, the pyramid, and the wondrous fire breathers.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-YPO9DMNXSGw/TVQ08CLb9uI/AAAAAAAAAbQ/Ruh9eMt44JU/s1600/100_1135.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-YPO9DMNXSGw/TVQ08CLb9uI/AAAAAAAAAbQ/Ruh9eMt44JU/s400/100_1135.JPG" width="300" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Each cube of ice holds a glowing candle, making this one of the most extravagant pyramids I've ever laid eyes on. </td></tr>
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If you live in Minnesota and haven't attended <a href="http://www.cityoflakesloppet.com/index.php?option=com_content&view=article&id=148&Itemid=19">The City of Lakes Luminary Loppet</a>, I highly recommend you check it out next year! I'm not a skier but if I were, this Loppet Extravagnza is where it's at! Numerous competitions are offered, but several people just attend for a memorably refreshing and entertaining late-night stroll. My skill set this year was walking in winter boots without tripping on anyone's skis! Impressive, I know!<br />
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So suck up that it's winter and get outside and play! It's almost Spring!<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div>Jacqueline Leehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10863068442922462022noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7202695594875177200.post-53845685662098007752011-01-31T19:22:00.001-06:002011-02-01T11:29:08.176-06:00Further Donate Donations<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_J3Y1Xb77ZfQ/TUc79070tlI/AAAAAAAAAao/xPgQ5t9F9bc/s1600/100_1112.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_J3Y1Xb77ZfQ/TUc79070tlI/AAAAAAAAAao/xPgQ5t9F9bc/s320/100_1112.JPG" width="240" /></a><br />
One thing I like about my thrifty lifestyle is that it allows me to be more generous. I tend to spend less and get more, which supports the gift-giver in me. Why not share when there is so little to lose? Beyond buying for the family and friends I love so much, I also try to support the causes I believe in. One belief of mine, is that talking about social problems is a good and positive thing, but it means nothing if no one offers a hand to help. We need to be the change we wish to see in this world; we need to effect positive change, not simply discuss it.So when I believe in something, I don't just state so, I try to take the steps needed to support it, back it, or incorporate it into my life.<br />
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_J3Y1Xb77ZfQ/TUc7-WpW6VI/AAAAAAAAAas/_TUhKvVuy5Q/s1600/100_1114.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_J3Y1Xb77ZfQ/TUc7-WpW6VI/AAAAAAAAAas/_TUhKvVuy5Q/s320/100_1114.JPG" style="cursor: move;" width="240" /></a>When it comes to aiding charities, my thrifty ways have made helping out feel too easy, like I've done absolutely nothing, but this isn't the case; every action we take in life counts for something. Last week, Minnesota was bone-chillingly cold, -20F cold, and I know it wasn't much warmer back home in WI, either. On the news there was a feature on the Salvation Army, they were keeping their doors open at all hours for people to take shelter from the cold; several homeless people were suffering severe frostbite. I saw people lying on cement floors without blankets, as the news reporter requested that any gently used hats, scarves, mittens, and long underwear be donated. "<i>Gently used</i>." We can all donate gently used items at any moment, we all have gently used items in our homes, and even if we're not willing to part with them, we have thrift store donations that can be further donated; throwing an item into a chain of donations could hardly be a bad thing.<br />
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All I have here in Minneapolis is my one pair of gloves and my one scarf, so I wandered over to <a href="http://hennepinchurch.org/serving/steeple-people-surplus-store">Steeple People</a>. They had bins and bins and bins of scarves, mittens and hot looking hats. One bin in particular held several handknitted items, and the kind donator had requested that they be sold for .50 cents each. .50 CENTS! Beautiful, warm, hand stitched winter wear for absolutely nothing. For only $3.00 I had the ability to make 6 people warmer. Think about that...it's amazing!<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">50 cents each!</td></tr>
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Even a few months back when I conducted Shopping for Sharing in order to collect needed clothing, toys, and supplies for foster children in Milwaukee, my friends and I were able to buy bags upon bags of second hand supplies for close to nothing. Didn't set us back a bit. It takes so little to improve someone's security.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_J3Y1Xb77ZfQ/TUc9SMYQRmI/AAAAAAAAAaw/lNvM_MtxA3Y/s1600/s4s.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="241" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_J3Y1Xb77ZfQ/TUc9SMYQRmI/AAAAAAAAAaw/lNvM_MtxA3Y/s320/s4s.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Sorting Shopping 4 Sharing Donations</td></tr>
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I'm not trying to make a show of charity, that's far from what I care about. I just want to display how little can make a lot, and how thrift stores really aid in making extreme generosity a possibility, even for poor college graduates like myself. I have very little, but I certainly have a lot to offer.We all do.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_J3Y1Xb77ZfQ/TUc9SbIbEcI/AAAAAAAAAa0/AKBf7t0-QyU/s1600/s4steam.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="303" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_J3Y1Xb77ZfQ/TUc9SbIbEcI/AAAAAAAAAa0/AKBf7t0-QyU/s400/s4steam.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">SOME of my Shopping 4 Sharing Team @ Target for hygiene supplies. We had so much fun!</td></tr>
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Go ahead and donate someone's donation, it's a cycle worth repeating.Jacqueline Leehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10863068442922462022noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7202695594875177200.post-5532485827506606502011-01-27T11:54:00.003-06:002011-01-30T02:03:24.920-06:00Never Underestimate an UpcycleThese days it seems we can't simply renew an item, we need to make it glitter and gloat "crafty" or it isn't worth our time. Yet retail stores are selling simple, solid colors by the millions; they never forget, solid shades are timeless. <i>So what</i> if simple doesn't emulate the I-spent-time-on-this craft mentality. It's still a valuable undertaking. <br />
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I do believe more of us are performing easy upcycles, we just aren't sharing them because they're not glittery to gaze upon. Well, I don't have that fear. I'm going to make you look at my underestimated thrift projects, because they're impressive (to me). <br />
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<span style="color: #38761d;">Underestimated Upcylce Numero Uno</span>: Johnathan wanted a wall rack for his sweatshirts.<br />
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</div><div style="text-align: center;">His chair wasn't cutting it anymore. It had lost its chair-ness. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_J3Y1Xb77ZfQ/TUChHqZu2QI/AAAAAAAAAYk/m8WYSioch60/s1600/Vintage+006.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_J3Y1Xb77ZfQ/TUChHqZu2QI/AAAAAAAAAYk/m8WYSioch60/s320/Vintage+006.JPG" width="243" /></a></div>So we went to the thrift store and bought one for a $1.99. Except it had been crafted on before, and didn't quite suite Johnathan's style.<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">This pic makes the paint job appear far better than it was. Trust me.</td></tr>
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Johnathan's timeless shade choice is black. So we needed to make a few crafty, quick changes Luckily we had everything we needed right at home: *<span style="color: #38761d;">Sandpaper</span> *<span style="color: #741b47;">Primer</span> *<span style="color: #38761d;">Black Spray Paint</span> and *<span style="color: #741b47;">Screws<span style="color: black;">,</span> </span> which were kindly packaged and taped to the back of this donated wall rack. <br />
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I sat down and sanded off the raised paint and small chips. Then we went outside and sprayed the rack with primer.<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_J3Y1Xb77ZfQ/TUDJeiU1PgI/AAAAAAAAAZI/IK8_46A6yu0/s1600/100_0807.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="135" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_J3Y1Xb77ZfQ/TUDJeiU1PgI/AAAAAAAAAZI/IK8_46A6yu0/s320/100_0807.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><br />
Once the primer dried, we took the rack back outside and spray painted it a stylish black. We left the screws yellow for a small dash of color...<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_J3Y1Xb77ZfQ/TUCx1NqQa6I/AAAAAAAAAZA/w-PebK9lJj8/s1600/100_0889.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_J3Y1Xb77ZfQ/TUCx1NqQa6I/AAAAAAAAAZA/w-PebK9lJj8/s320/100_0889.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><br />
<div style="text-align: center;">And voila! No more sweatshirts piled all sloppy on a chair. </div><br />
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<div style="text-align: center;">We accomplished a craft of organization. </div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div>Sometimes easy does it, which is why we should never underestimate an upcycle. Besides, most of these <a href="http://www.target.com/s/wall-hook">racks sell anywhere from $15.00 - $60.00</a>--<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">upcycling an item will feel like a steal. </div><br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_J3Y1Xb77ZfQ/TUGf73WgGyI/AAAAAAAAAZ0/tpfDCBV2YXs/s1600/Vintage+004.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="151" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_J3Y1Xb77ZfQ/TUGf73WgGyI/AAAAAAAAAZ0/tpfDCBV2YXs/s200/Vintage+004.JPG" width="200" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Upcycle Star for Me!<br />
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</tbody></table><div style="text-align: center;">Thrifting and upcycling aid the Earth's sustainability as well as our wallets. <span style="color: #741b47;"> </span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="color: #741b47;">Win </span>- <span style="color: #38761d;">Win</span>! </div><br />
<span style="color: #741b47;">TRIPLE</span> win here (we're cleaner than we were yesterday)!Jacqueline Leehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10863068442922462022noreply@blogger.com6