delusions of grandeur

Flea Market Finds Pour La Semaine Quarante -Deux

2012-01-26T13:33:00.000-08:00

Bonjour bonjour!!

Welcome again to FLEA MARKET FINDS!!

How are y'all doing? Is the weather nice in your part of the world? Because I'm ready to run away from mine!

Sorry I'm late with my post this week.

Here in the Pacific Northwest we've been having lots of wind storms so our power has been off and on for a couple of days. Enough to drive me out of my ever lovin' mind!....So what else could I do?....I shopped in areas that still had power..... that's what! *winks*

This week I have a couple of fabulous finds from my favorite (go to) shopping place...CRAIGSLIST!!

Apologizing again, this time about the pictures being so dark......I really wanted to show off my new beauty in all her sparkly warkly glory! But it was not to be..... Also showcased along with my beautiful new sparkly "IT" thing (You know the feeling when you've got to have "IT" *winks*).... is another "IT" thing found on craigslist that I'd searched a very long time for.

So without further ado here is my favorite find for the week.

A turn of the century french crystal chandelier. Dripping with big faceted juicy crystals! It was a little spendy at $340 but worth every penny! It's a quintessential "me" piece that I'll keep and love forever.

Along with my chandy, I also found this oh so wonderful vintage barkcloth carpet on craigslist from my new friend, (and I hope soon to be new blogger) Alma.

I had actually visited Alma on a previous occasion to check out another item she was selling, but decided to pass on. So what a wonderful surprise to find her again!

Alma has some of the most beautiful "shabby chic" items I've ever seen! So I hope she'll be joining me on my sidebar with her new blog. Trust me you will be drooling!

Anyway here's my new (to me) carpet along with my chandelier.

Ages ago I spotted this fabulous rug and bedroom in an issue of Romantic Homes magazine, then I spotted it again on ebay belonging to the seller "Nouveau Rose" I've been obsessed ever since with finding a rug like it (that I could actually afford) so I was thrilled to pieces to find another one as they're soooo hard to come by!

This one belonging to Nouveau Rose is swoon worthy don't you think? As is her whole beautiful house!

My base color is more tan, but don't they have a similar look? Perhaps it's just my wishful thinking *winks*

Here's a shot with my pomeranian Juju bear hiding under the french wing chair. Which by the way was a $25 auction find *winks*....The chair not Juju lol!

Then making my regular rounds at the local Value Village I had a slam dunk day!

I don't know if all the snow and wind kept people away? Whatever the case there was more treasure than usual *winks*

Starting with this cool necklace that looks like it's covered in vintage brooches for $9.99

Close up.

And also in the $9.99 pile was this pale blue rhinestone tiara with a heart perfect for Valentines day!

This little concrete painted cherub was $1.99. He has crazy eyes that I need to repaint (Which could be quite a challenge as I can't paint worth a darn!) It's very likely he'll look even crazier than before, but I'm gonna give it a try! Any pointers from my talented painter friends would be much appreciated!

This sweet Madonna trinket holder is for my etsy store.

And this large barbola style swag was also $1.99. I'm sure I can find a spot for this *winks*

Then I received a special something in the mail from one of my favorite etsy sellers the sweet Cindy of edithandevelyn

This darling large bisque girl was $40 with shipping

and I love her!

Even the wrapping was special. I didn't want to open

it up and spoil it!

Just look at that peacock feather ribbon! Isn't it fab?!

She's as lovely as can be with such a winsome smile.

No markings to be found.....

but I couldn't resist that adorable face. And if you read my blog you know how "bust" addicted I am! Lol!

Well that's all for this week.

I hope you'll come back next week for a fabulous giveaway!!

I just saw that I've reached 400 followers!

That's plum amazing! And calls for a special celebration! I'm so thankful for each and every one of you!

So please stop by!

And I'd love if you left me a comment and I'll do the same. *winks*

I just LOVE hearing from you!

Vanna

I'm joining Sherry of No minimalist Here for:

The wonderful twosome of Patti and Paula at Elephants & Ivory for:

And Courtney at French Country Cottage for:

Honey at 2805 for:

And Cindy at My Romantic Home for:

Flea Market Finds Pour La Semaine Quarante et un

2012-01-18T14:30:00.000-08:00

Bonjour!...Hello!........Bienvenue to my latest Flea Market Finds post!

This week should more aptly be titled "Stuff I found at the Value Village thrift store for cheap"

Because Monday was Martin Luther King half off day!!

So I arrived bright and early to find me some treasures!

I'll share those shortly, but first I'll start with my teaser from last week.....

I found this amazing treasure at a local antique store...

You know that feeling..... when you look across the room and there IT is?!

You dare not show any interest for fear that someone else might B-line for it first?

So you calmly amble over to "said object" to inspect the price tag.....You know it's gonna be high....You just know it will be WAY out of reach!

Only to find instead that it's sooooo cheap!

Could that be right?

Could that amazing piece of fabulousness really be only $75???

Does it have fleas or something?

Such was my reaction when I found this beauty last week....

A large spelter antique angel lamp with a gorgeous verdigris (green) patina!

It had the most awful brand spanking new, shiny bright brass lampshade harp on it that HAD to GO!

I wanted to take all kinds of beautiful vignette-y pictures of him, but we received 8" of snow last night so the pictures are all a little dark....sorry..... (Do you have snow where you live?)

Anyhoo here is my beautiful boy.

He's a keeper....I just have no idea where I'll be keeping him *winks*

But in this case love will find a way......

Cute hiney too! *winks*

Isn't he fabu-licious up close?

And from a distance? *winks*

I also found this 19th century Louis XVI style needlepoint foot/vanity stool for my etsy shop coming in two days.

The top features some sweet birds

Then I received my Valentine gift a little early this year when I spotted this wonderful Victorian piece.

I told my husband he wasn't going to top this at Hallmark...Or even buying me a box of chocolates WITH flowers *winks* And smart man that he is...he realized that this was the way to go! Lol!

I wonder if it had once been a house warming gift?

The fabric is silk, even the little ribbons.

Very fragile and a little tattered....

It has what appears to be a silkscreen picture of a house and village and the words "Kind Regards" are painted on.

I've never received a better Valentine! This one just speaks to my heart!

OK now on to the Value Village madness *winks*

This yellow silk chiffon silk dress was $7.99.

I love its soft filmy ruffles and the contrast in textures with my other dresses.

The pink rhinestone broach I added was $5 at the VV.

This barley twist plant stand was only $7.

The faux guilloche picture frame and the Juicy Couture crown key fob were both $1. And that was a great price on the Juicy because retail on it was $50-ish.

Of course if you read this blog you know what I'll use that crown for.......

One of my boudoir dolls of course!! Lol!

Now my little lady bust is a tea cup Queen! *winks*

Well that's all I have for this week.

I hope you'll join me on Friday for the opening of my new etsy shoppe!

I also hope you'll leave me a message to say "hello" and I'll do the same.

I LOVE hearing from you!

Vanna

I'm joining those sweet gals Patti and Paula at Elephands & Ivy for:

My friend Sherry at No Minimalist Here for:

The lovely Honey at 2805 for:

The beautiful Courtney at French Country Cottage for:

And Cindy at My Romantic Home for:

Flea Market Finds Pour La Semaine Quarante

2012-01-11T19:16:00.000-08:00

It's that time once again.......

Time for FLEA MARKET FINDS!!!!!

Yayyyyyy!....Yahoo!.......Yippeeee!

Or maybe you're thinking "so what whateverrrr"

That's OK, I'm just glad you stopped by *winks*

As always I'm starting with my favorite find first. In this case it's a couple so it's "finds"

I believe they are old (or vieux) paris porcelain (Experts correct me if I'm wrong) and came from a local antique mall for $30 which I think is a pretty good deal. 11" tall. They have a very old import sticker on them stating for customs that they're in excess of 100 yrs old, otherwise no other markings.

Doesn't he look like a Gaston? Love his little moustache!

And she looks like a "Henriette" to me *winks*

My second favorite find was this shabby chippy Victorian rose painting (on the left) found at a local antique store for $40, to go with my other shabby chippy Victorian rose painting.

Sometimes it's the smallest things that thrill....I spotted these cute little pink satin shades at another local antique store and squealed with joy to find that they were only $10! They're so tarty and pink! Lol! I love em!!....

Here they are displayed with my new rose painting.

OK I hope you don't mind if I make a small segue to ask a question of my regular readers?

I found this new lampshade on sale for $16 at Jo-Ann Fabrics. The same one is $125 at Horchow Home

I got the message loud and clear that you weren't crazy about this dark shade for this lamp.

Whatcha think? Like the new one better?

OK back to the regular scheduled programming *winks*

I found myself a few new art nouveau trinket boxes to add to my collection. $35 for the 3.

The pearls are from the Goodwill and the rhinestone necklace was 99 cents at the Value Village.

This vintage perfume set wasn't a steal, but I collect old metal perfume bottles so had to have em ($35 via ebay) I especially like the powder box.

The sweet blue lace doily from a local antique store was $7 and is from the 1920's.

A few new additions to my vintage rhinestone collection. The red and white cigarette case was $6, the plain rhinestone lipstick case is a match for another I have and was a little pricey at $25.

And the third piece is a mystery. It expands to fit..... I have no idea what? It was $2.50 at a local antique store, but I saw it as this......

a crown for one of my boudoir dolls!

Doesn't she look like a Tudor queen?

Speaking of boudoir dolls...I also found this wonderful ornate wig (center) for my poor bald lady. She may have lots of chips and scrapes, but at least now she has fabulous hair! Lol!

This lovely rose needlepoint bag was $40 at a going out of business sale at a local antique store. I see them dropping like flies lately and it breaks my heart to lose so many of my favorites. Do you see that happening in your neck of the world also?

This darling little girl lamp is heading to my etsy store.

And last (and definitely least) is this cute beefeater tee shirt for 99 cents at the Goodwill.

That's it for this week. I hope you'll come back next week for a really special find (It's currently being repaired)

Please leave me a comment and I'll do the same.

I LOVE to hear from you!

OK I'm off to play catch up on all the bloggy fun I've missed lately, so I'm off to see you!

Vanna

I'm joining Sherry at No Minimalist Here for:

Those sweet girls Patti and Paula at Ivy & Elephants for:

Courtney at Country French Cottage for:

Honey at 2805 for:

And Cindy at My Romantic Home for:

A Walk Around The Hood 2012 Part Two

2012-01-09T20:17:00.000-08:00

Are you all ready to stroll again through one of my local neighborhoods? It's a long walk so you'll need your favorite tenni shoes.

Oh and

lets grab a latte because this IS the coffee capitol of the country *winks* And it's a little chilly outside so the cup will warm your hands.

Come on I'll show ya some cool homes!

Starting with this brick colonial beauty. Not too big and not too small...but is it just right?

Or how about this trio of Victorians? Aren't they cute?! And so well kept. I wouldn't want to be the neighbor who didn't keep up with the maintenance....Quelle pressure! Lol!

I really like this stately white Georgian colonial style house.

And it even has one of the things I long for....A guest house! Nice size too *winks*

Or how about this neighborhoods version of a fixer upper? This Spanish style house has lots of potential. I'm thinking maybe a little round awning above the balcony door, maybe some flowers trailing off the balcony...and.....

I think I'd paint the door black. Paint the detail (above the door) and detail pieces on the front of the house a darker shade to highlight them. Add some flower pots next to the door and clean up the landscaping. How about you? What changes would you make? (If any) I really love that swagged detail above the door and the arched entry.

This brick house is large at over 7000 sq ft or for my European readers 659 sq metres. It has lovely statues of angels in front, as well as dual urn fountains and ponds on each side of the door. They make lovely noise. Cost about 1.5 million.

Close up on one of the angels.

And from the side.

I really like this Spanish style house on a hill, but getting down that hill in the snow would NOT be happening!...Come to think of it that's not a bad thing *winks*

Can't go wrong with this classic baby! Big and so friendly! Grandma's perfect home don'tcha think?

This one's a little "fairy tale"

Hansel and Gretel could live here.

Something in salmon perhaps?

Or a larger Tudor?

Or something tall and skinny?

I promised you a house tour and this Georgian colonial mansion is a beauty! It was built in 1905, has 8 bedrooms and 6.25 bathrooms and it can be yours for $1,350,000.

Please overlook the furniture and decor in this house and instead focus on the architectural details. There are some really lovely ones.

This is the entry with a really pretty staircase and lots of nice mouldings. Beautiful ceiling too.

A nice fireplace to warm the entry and welcome guests. (There are 6 total)

To the right is the gentleman's parlor and dining room.

Another nice fireplace. I like the column detail.

And to the left is the ladies parlor. It has beautiful grand gilt mirrors as well as a wonderful circular window seat. I think it's the prettiest room in the house.

The ceilings are 10'

Can you see the window seat now?

Very pretty from this side with so much light and the view into the gentleman's parlor. Oooooh I could have so much fun decorating this house!

Nice large kitchen with a commercial style wolf range and stainless counter tops. I think it works well with the age of the house.

And the master suite which appears to be long and narrow with nice arched ceilings, and again has so much potential!

And yet another area for relaxing in front of a cosy fire. Hmmm for me I think that wallpaper would have to go, but maybe I could work with it..... I loathe removing wallpaper!

And the view from the balcony of the water and surrounding mountains.

So that's it for the house tour.

I'd love to own this house! Would you?

How do the prices compare to those in your part of the world?

Our housing market is way down so this is a great time to fetch a deal!

As for my favorites I have two. This gorgeous brick mansion is wonderful! But not currently for sale alas.

And I know you'll be completely underwhelmed by my other favorite....this sweet Italianate house that just called to me...I've never seen another like it around here, and I love the Juliet balcony! I think this house would be just right for me!

So thank you for joining me on this (not so little) stroll.

I hope you saw something you liked?

And I hope you'll come back on Wednesday for more Flea Market Finds!

I have some sweet new things to show ya!

And if it wouldn't be too much trouble would you leave me a comment?

I LOVE to hear from you!

Vanna

A Walk Around The Hood 2012 Part One

2012-01-03T21:06:00.000-08:00

This week I'm taking a break from my regular flea market finds post to take you along on a walk through one of my local neighborhoods.

I took an earlier tour through a more modest neighborhood HERE if you'd like to visit.

For a change it wasn't raining....and that's been a rare occurrence lately *winks* So off the hubster and I went (umbrella at the ready just in case) to see if we could spot a dream house or two....And we did indeed!

Do you love to look at houses as much as I do? And envision how you might change and redecorate a place? I absolutely love to! I only wish I could go inside each one to check out the interiors as well *winks*

I did manage however to do so with one of them... And I'll be sharing that in Part Two of my walking tour.....But come on and follow me and I'll show you Part One of the beauties we found!

I'll start with this grandest of the grand 10,000 sq ft.+ turn of the century classic revival style mansion.

Isn't it something?

And strangely it's only valued at around 1 mil. Less than many small New York city apartments. I can only imagine the upkeep it must need? Would you be willing to take it on? I think I'll stick with something a good lot smaller *winks* The view certainly is pretty though!

And from the side.

It also has a beautiful water view from the back.

Perhaps this smaller Victorian gingerbread house at around 5000 sq ft is more to your liking?

Or how about a smaller yet classic colonial?

Or maybe something in between in sunny yellow?

One of the things I love most about this neighborhood is it's diversity of architectural styles.

I really love the ribbon detailing on this pretty red house.

Or how about this Victorian Gothic (?) style mansion?

By the way I was wondering how large a house needed to be to be considered a mansion? And I found there isn't actually any set size, but the Realtors association consider homes of 8000 sq ft or larger to be "mansions"

This one is much larger than it looks from the picture as it goes back quite a bit.

Perhaps a 1920's Tudor house is more to your liking? Isn't this one a cutie?

Or how about this large dutch colonial style?

Maybe this turn of the century four square house in pink is more your thing? I'm sure lovin' that pink! And the cute ledge for flowers.

Maybe you'd like to go REALLY large in a gorgeous Spanish style 1920's 11,000+ sq ft home currently a short sale for 900k. Hence the less than stellar landscaping. It really doesn't look that large does it? Again looks can be deceiving *winks*(It had been purchased a few years back for 1.6 mil so it's almost half price..... yay!!?

Here's the "little" guest house that goes with the Spanish style house. I would love to have a separate space like this for my guests, wouldn't you? Or do you have one already? If so I'm green with envy! *winks*

This smaller Spanish colonial revival style house (4800+ sq ft) was almost my house, but it needed quite a bit of work done and we didn't feel we were capable of doing it at the time, so we opted for a newer house. How I wish we could go back and do it over! It had so many beautiful period features...including said guest house *sighs*

I thought it was really interesting that this Victorian mansion had windows in the chimney. I can't say I've ever noticed that before. Isn't it odd? But yet interesting!

From the front.

You can barely see but at the top of the turret roof is a fleur-de-lis lightening rod. Loved that touch!

And from the side a white picket fence.

Well that's all for Part One of my tour.

Did any of these houses speak to you? Or were none of them quite right?

I have my favorite to share coming in Part Two

( I hope you won't be completely underwhelmed *winks*) Along with the house tour I promised. I hope you'll come back to join me for that, and please leave me a comment!

I LOVE to hear from you!

Vanna

Flea Market Finds Year In Review

2011-12-31T00:52:00.000-08:00

I've noticed lately that a lot of bloggers have done posts on their year in review. So many have accomplished some amazing projects.

So I thought "hey why don't I take this opportunity to share my favorite 11 finds for 2011?!!"....OK really not that exciting I know, but I'm working it here *winks* so are you with me?

Wanna see?

Well grab yourself a nice warm beverage (cookies optional *winks*) and settle in for a nice walk down thrifty bird lane lol!

You can click on the pictures for links to their original posts should you wish to browse some more....Just sayin'

I'm going to start backwards from my 11th favorite and move up to #1....Builds tension right? *Heh heh*

Starting in the 11th spot is this fab frenchy clock I found at the Value Village for $3.99. I think it was a really good buy and I love it!

In 10th place is this really amazing hand painted chair (Well I think so anyway) from craigslist for only $10!! I've never seen anything like it for that price.

It features a sweet courting couple.

In the #9 spot is this large statue of a french lady and her children. This one was a trade with a craigslist seller for something I had lying around and never used so it was pretty much FREE! And that's the best price of all don'tcha think?

In 8th place is this charming but scratched $49 portrait of a girl. I almost didn't buy her, but I'm so glad I did because she seems to add life and interest everywhere I place her.

7th place turned out to be a wonderful surprise because I was afraid I'd probably paid too much ($86.50) for this cute little inkwell, but she was so wonderfully French! If just a little spendy, so I took her home.

She turned out to be old paris porcelain from around the 1820's-1840's according to my friend (And antiquer extraordinaire Richard Cottrell of the fabulous blog My Old Historic House) and at a very good price after all......Yay!! I just love when it works out that way!...Instead of the other *winks*....Not that that ever happens.....*nose growing an inch*

Isn't she adorable?

In 6th place is this pair of vintage concrete cherubs for $35! I couldn't believe the price and strained my back trying to pick them both up so no one could swoop in on my lovlies! Lol! This shot was taken in the summer, but they're still living on my porch getting mossy *winks*

Close up.

5th place goes to one so dear to my heart, this lovely antique nude lady statue covered in beautiful roses! I love everything about her! I adore beautiful old nudes! Does that make me "risque"? *winks*

She's even holding a sweet little rose.

In 4th place is this lovely French globe de mariee case. I paid almot $200 with shipping, but it was money well spent. I can't seem to get enough of these beauties! And this one is an absolute favorite.

3rd place goes to this beautiful dresden cherub mirror that my hubby did a little upright adaption to via the Goodwill.. If you've read my blog before you probably know how much I LOVE cherubs!! What is it about those chubby little dimpled baby knees that I just can't resist? *winks*

Close up.

Almost there!.......In the #2 spot is this fabulous large alabaster bust of a girl. She was a steal on ebay for $256. A lot I know, but she's one of my absolute favorite things!

And in the #1 spot is this one of a kind hand painted bed from the 1920's featuring paintings of nudes that I found for $45!! (Yes I really would swear on the bible) *winks* I kept looking at the price tag to make sure there wasn't an extra zero somewhere? But nooooo it really was only $45.I've been HAPPY DANCING about it ever since lol!

The three muses?

And a lovely piper with sheep in the background (Another one of my favorite things)

Well that's my list of favorites....Which ones were yours? I'd love to hear from you!

And the Happiest of New Years to you all!

Vanna

Flea Market Finds Pour La Semaine Trente-Neuf

2011-12-28T15:40:00.000-08:00

Bonjour...or perhaps bon nuit? Beautiful people!

I hope everybody had a wonderful Christmas season!

I'm still running around like crazy trying to get things done/or undone...as the case may be, so I've only got a few little pretties to share with you this week.

As always I'll start with my favorite ......what appears to be a small vintage potpourri bottle found in a local antique store......Actually I have no idea what this bottle is actually for? It has openings at the top so can't be perfume....But anyhoo I don't care!...... It's got cherub angels!! Lol!

I think it's probably German? (no markings) It's hand painted with sweet little flowers on both sides and nothing really grand, but for $6? What angel lover could walk away? I wouldn't even put it down whilst I walked around the antique store! Just gripped it tightly in my greedy little hand! *winks*

Here's a close up on the cute little guys.

For now it's living with the lovely ladies on my bedroom dresser.

Then on to favorite find #2 this small Marie Antoinette powder or cream jar from the 1940's for $10 found in the same antique mall. She'll be joining my other Marie beauties. I have a crazy obsession for all things Marie! *winks* How about you?

And in the same booth space this silvered (1920's?) perfume bottle was $12.50. Reminds me of old mercury glass which I adore!

This little German (?) boy was only $3.99 at the local Value Village. I couldn't resist the pink!

Even if he does have yellow eyes *winks*

I found this alpine style Bavarian birdhouse at the Goodwill. There's a hole in the back for the birdies to get in and out. I'm not sure if I should keep this one or not?

This 1940's sacred heart holy water font was also a VV find for $2.99.

Close up

And last is this tiny limoge dollhouse plate with frolicking cherubs for $8. It's only about two inches wide. Isn't it adorable?!

I'm showing it here with my Marie boudoir doll to give you an idea of its size. It sure packs a lot of detailed ca-ute for it's diminutive size doesn't it?

Well that's all for this week. What do you think? Are there any items I should've left at the store... before my house turns into a hoarders (french style) episode? *winks*?

I'd LOVE to hear from you!

I hope you'll come back next week for some more shopping fun!

Vanna

I'm joining my girls Patti and Paula at Ivy & Elephants for:

My friend Sherry at No Minimalist here for:

My friend Courtney from French Country Cottage for:

Sweet Honey at 2805 for:

And Cindy at My Romantic Home for:

Christmas Wishes

2011-12-25T15:04:00.000-08:00

Flea Market Finds Pour La Semaine Trente-Huit

2011-12-14T14:22:00.000-08:00

It's time for another week of

FLEA....MARKET....FINDS!

I only have a few things to share as I've been running around like crazy trying to get my Christmas act together.....Hasn't happened yet! *winks*

Are all of you ready for Christmas? Or did you procrastinate like I did?

Next year (God willing) I'm going to start a month in advance like the smart folks!

So I haven't had much time for antiquing but I did manage to sneak in one trip to the Goodwill and one to a local antique mall where I found my first (and favorite) find.....

This crazy quilt/patchwork robe. I picked it up and put it down a couple of times not really knowing what it was and yet intrigued by it......So I studied it a little more closely and noticed that it was entirely sewn by hand and had two banners with the names of ships along the front. Well I love a little mystery (Don't you?) so home with me it went.

I tried to find out more, and did manage to find that both ships were war ships existing at the same time in the 1920's so I'd guess this robe was from around that time period. Must have belonged to the wife of a navy man. This was the 1920's -30's version of being green. No scraps were wasted!

I wonder if groups of ladies gathered together with all their scrap fabric and quilted while talking about their men still at sea?

Chock-a-block full of different fabrics.

The ships...

I love the old florals. The silks aren't faring so well and a few of them are tattered.

From the back

And another feature that really makes this robe interesting is that it's completely reversible!

The other side has the most luscious tomato red silk satin! Having been protected from the light it's in amazingly good condition.

I had a hard time finding many of these pieces to get an idea of value?

I did find this robe/coat from 1914 housed in a museum in Norway. But no price attached alas.

And this coat is from the 1930's.

That was pretty much it, leading me to believe that these pieces must be a little uncommon. Whatever the case I really enjoyed the learning process with this one, completely outside my areas of expertise....If indeed I even have any *winks*

OK moving on to what turned out to be my industrial style finds... the large rusty suitcase/toolbox was a freebie roadside (full of rusty crusty tools) as well as the galvanized case. The tool box also had a few of the old folding rulers. and the 1920's light fixture was $25 at the Goodwill. As well as the metal cloche with butterflies for 99 cents.

This grate cover was $22 at the antique mall. I really love it, but have no idea what I'm going to do with it.

Do you think this could be a milk case? I have no idea what this was actually used for.

Interior.

If you have any idea I'd love to hear! *winks*

One of the freebie folding rulers.

This 1950's ice bucket with lucite handle was $3.50 at the Goodwill.

This brush featuring a ship was also in the large rusty case so FREE!....My favorite price! *winks* Hmmmm another naval-ish find! It does seem to go like that from week to week, a theme seems to appear.

And lastly this old rattan magazine holder ($5) that's as rough as can be, but I really liked the paintings of flowers on each side.

Tattered roses.

That's all for this week.

Not some of my best I admit....But thanks for stopping by anyway!

I hope you'll leave me a comment.

I LOVE to hear from you!

Vanna

I'm joining my friends Paula and Patti of Ivy and Elephants for:

Flea Market Finds Pour La Semaine Trente-Sept

2011-12-07T15:24:00.000-08:00

BONJOUR Y'ALL!!

I'm back to my regular FLEA MARKET FINDS!!

I don't have a lot of things to share this week (Christmas and all) but I do have a few goodies for ya. (I hope? *winks*)

Starting as always with my favorites first.

This was my "wow" find this week, a 1950's prom dress in pale blue that's just so darn pretty!

I'd hoped to display it on my painted white dress form but alas the dress was wayyyy too small. It must be what would be considered a size zero today?The waist measures 21"

.....Oh how I miss those days *winks*

Layers of tulle with ruffles along with a shelf bust. Isn't it fab? And all for $32! I think it was a steal! I set it up at the front counter to do some more shopping and a couple of ladies tried to buy it out from under me! You know it's good when... right?...lol! I overheard the clerk telling them "sorry it's already sold" and I muttered to myself "darn skippy it is!" I think I would've gone on the war path over that dress! *winks*

It has a pretty flowered bodice with rhinestones.

It's a keeper for sure!

Next up is this set of 1890's purple transferware that I found at a favorite local junque store. I paid a goodly sum of $100 for service for 6 (minus 1 cup and saucer) I knew that the purple/mulberry color (What actually is the difference?) is a harder color to find, so I went ahead despite the high cost (at least for me) and brought them home.

I guess I did ok because I found the platter by itself going for $90 (Found HERE)

There are seven of these dinner plates.

Even Replacements LTD only had a very few of these pieces. I have my fingers crossed that they'll be able to find me one more cup and saucer. If you happen to come across one let me know K? *winks*

Then I found this really cool frenchy clock at the Value Village for $3.99. I couldn't believe it was so cheap! It was love at first sight! I also purchased another cute little spelter frenchy clock for the same price at the same time....SCORE time! Lol!

Then at a the same antique mall as the prom dress I found this old silk petticoat for $22. It had such beautiful details....little tiny tucked lace pleats.... along with pleated silk....Did I mention lace galore?.....And it actually fits me too. *winks* I'm brainstorming all the different things I could do with it. Maybe a lampshade? Or a bed crown? Do you have any ideas? I'd love to hear them.

Here's a shot of my clock and petticoat together.

And via ebay another lovely boudoir lady for my collection ($39) This one a 1920's German munzerlite. Somebody took the time to crochet her some lacy finery. They even made her a little hat. Isn't she sweet? I hope I look this good when I'm 90ish!

At the Value Village I found a bowl for $3.99 that's almost a match for the platter I found a few weeks ago....I guess I'm consistent *winks*

Here's the other little frenchy clock. Tells good time too!

And on a completely different note I found myself a couple neat pairs of brand new shoes (also at the Value Village) I just love that place!

Some jeweled sandals by Apepazza for $6.99

And this pair of black naughty but nice Guess platforms for $12.99. At least my feet are feeling fashionable *winks*

Well that's it for this week.

Thanks for stopping by!

Please leave me a comment and I'll do the same for you.

I just LOVE hearing from you!

And if you found some great (Or even not so great) bargains please come get me K?
I'll add some envy green to your blog page! *winks*

Vanna

P.S. I saw Hugo last weekend and found it enchanting! Has anyone else seen it? What did you think?

I'm joining my girls Patti and Paula of Ivy and Elephants for:

Kathleen at Charm Bracelet Diva for:

And Cindy at My Romantic Home for:

My Shabby Little Powder Room Opinions Wanted

2011-11-29T19:14:00.000-08:00

Howdy y'all!

Sorry I missed a week.....Blond that I am I didn't realize my posting day would land on Thanksgiving so I skipped one and had myself a mini blog vaca *winks* I hope you all had a wonderful holiday.....And doesn't it feel like Christmas is only 10 minutes from now? Did any of you hit the black friday sales?

Anyhoo my blog post today is about my postage stamp sized powder room. I'd love to hear opinions from all of you (my fabulous bloggy friends) on what you think I can do to improve it? *winks* As mentioned it's very small, has no window, so no natural light...hence my less then stellar pictures (sorry!)

This room is right off the garage and across from my laundry room so it's very utilitarian.

Awhile back I found this large over mantel mirror at a local antique store for $100 and wasn't quite sure what to do with it? I got a a sudden brainstorm and ended up putting it in here to replace a very blah maple framed oval mirror, and I'm wondering, do you think I should paint it white?

I'm also thinking about adding some wainscoting? The room already has moulding rail, so should it be kept to that height? Or maybe a little higher? So many questions for such a tiny room *winks*

This is what the mirror looked like before.

My new (old) mirror nearly goes from one wall to the other in this small space.

The old wood medicine cabinet below was a $10 find at a garage sale. The vintage game table is one of a set of two purchased on craigslist for $25.

Here you can really see its size.

This lovely clock case was a $12.99 find at a thrift store. The clock parts are almost all gone but I don't care *winks* The floral prints are also from a garage sale.

Isn't it sweet?

I LOVE the romantic maidens! I think the attached antique tassels must've come off an old sofa? I paid $5 for the two of them

This sweet statue of a girl was a $10 craigslist find.

I found this frame at our town garage sale for $3. And the plaque of lovers was a find on my shopping trip with my friend Joyce for $41.

Close up.

This Moreau spelter couple picking apples was a find at a local antique mall for $100.

And this set of cherub candleholders were a Christmas gift from a friend.

I think this small chandelier was one of my best finds from awhile back. It was $28.......

but it came to me originally looking like this *winks*

So what do you think? What should I change? Too busy? Please give me your opinions. I'd LOVE to hear from you!

And please come back for next week when I have some special flea market finds to share with you!

Vanna

I'm joining Marty at A Stroll Thru Life for:

My sweet friends Patti and Paula of Ivy and Elephants for:

Sherry at No Minimalist Here for:

Kathleen at Charm Bracelet Diva for:

Honey at 2805 for:

And Cindy at My Romantic Home for:

Flea Market Finds Pour La Semaine Trente Six

2011-11-16T13:47:00.000-08:00

It was meant to be a $5 day....It really was......

Last week I went out shopping (again) with my new bloggy girlfriend Joyce of Calamity Jane's Life and Style and Monticello Antique Marketplace.

It was my intention (Really) to spend nothing and instead to learn from my friend because she has fabulous taste and a very successful antiques business *winks*

All was going well with my plan until we stopped in at a friends shop who was having a "going out of business" sale and had everything marked half off! Well heck with that $5 thing! Both of us were in a frenzy and finding treasures left and right!

Soooo I didn't spend $5...I'm undisciplined like that *winks* What the hoohoo I'm already eating beans and mac. So caution thrown to the wind, here are a few of the things I found.....Starting with my favorites, which again was a two way tie, so I'm sharing what I think is the prettiest picture first *winks*

This lovely art deco egyptian maiden garden statue was only $62 and 3' tall.

I've displayed her for now in my living room where previously I had this cherub statue (I call him my Les Misérables child *winks*)

So please tell me my design savy friends, which do you prefer? The cherub has great patina from spending years in a garden, but the egyptian lady is much taller and the scale is probably better? I'd love to hear your opinion.

OK moving on to favorite find #2, this wonderful marble and bronze lamp with angel figures $130.

Isn't it a beauty!? I took one look and HAD to have it! I have a weakness for beautiful lamps......Well I have a weakness for LOTS of stuff as many of you already know. *winks*

I'm trying it out with my shabby shade from a couple weeks ago. What do you think? Too shabby?

Close up on one of the bronze figures.

I couldn't believe my luck in finding this fabulous large spelter lady titled L'hiver for $45! (French for winter.)

I got her home and realized I already had another one of the seasons! L'automne (Fall) Only two more to go *winks*

Actually I must really love this figure because I also already had her in a smaller size and didn't even realize it.....Go figure.

This large beautiful bohemian glass lustre was only $75. If you collect these you know how expensive they can get....So how could I say no? Lol!

I added this little victorian silk flower dome to my collection via ebay for $61.

Grouped together in my living room.

I found this hand painted rose fan, large plate and victorian silk fan case at my friends store.

Isn't this pink silk case lovely? It's available for sale with the silk fan for $35 if anyone is interested.

The fan is very tatty but still so beautiful! The sticks and guards are leather. It would make a perfect back drop for some pretty collection *winks*

The rose plate is German.

And lastly this velvet pillow case was a Goodwill find for $2.99. I didn't like the frame so I removed it only to find that there had been some fading to the velvet exposed to the light. I believe it's victorian era? Maybe one of my fabric experts could verify that for me (aka Debra at Acquired Objects Textile Queen Supreme! *winks*)

Before: In frame.

And out of frame.

Close up.

At any rate at that price I think it was a pretty good deal *winks*

That's all I have for ya this week. I hope you'll come back next week for a very small tour of my problem powder room...Once again opinions needed! What would I do without y'all's help? *winks*

Please leave me a comment and I'll do the same.

I LOVE hearing from you!

Vanna

I'm joining my friend Marty at A Stroll Thru Life for:

Sherry at No Minimalist Here for:

Courtney at French Country Cottage for:

Honey at 2805 for:

And Cindy at My Romantic Home for:

And Kathleen at Charm Bracelet Diva for:

My French Country Family Room

2011-11-09T17:28:00.000-08:00

I thought I'd take a little break this week from the flea market finds to share another room in my house, my family room (On a tight budget *winks*) And I'm hoping that you my ever so wonderful friends will help me make a decision about something.....

But first follow me this way and I'll show you around *winks*

This room is loaded almost entirely with bargain, thrift and craigslist finds. The armoire in the corner holds the TV and was a $250 score on craigslist (And the seller even delivered it!) It was being used in a garage to hold fishing tackle! I think it's much better off at my house don't you? *winks*

This gold french wing chair was $125 at a local antique mall.

I love this little victorian fairy frame with a painting of a vase of flowers.

And this coffee table was a $135 also at a local antique store. Do you see the art nouveau planter of the lady with her daughter?

It's one of my favorite things....Yes I do say that a lot! *winks*

Aren't they lovely together?!

Moving clockwise we come to the gas fireplace that my hubby added for me. I'm getting lots and lots of use from it this year!

Here's a close up on one of the lithographs that surround the fireplace.They represent the 12 months of the year and were a whopping $10 for the lot. This one is September.

A favorite slag glass lamp with one of my beloved spelter figures. The leather wing chair was $75 at the Goodwill.

The sofa was a $300 find at a local consignment store. I love that it has a curved back and it's really comfy!.

This 1840's flame mahogany secretary is another one of my favorite things. Found at an auction for a song.

And another favorite (yes again) *winks* this wooden carved portrait. There's a silly story to go with this one. One day My sister and I were discussing which piece of art in each of our homes was our favorite? I told her this carved portrait of a young girl was probably mine. And she replied "Oh honey I hate to break this to you but......that's a boy! He has an adams apple"

And danged if she wasn't right! (OK so I'm not the most observant person on the planet lol!....But WHATEVER!! I still love it!.......Miss know it all!

This is the view from the back side of the sofa featuring another of my beloved spelter statues. This one is titled " Fleurs de Printemps" (Flowers of Spring) and a bouillotte style lamp from the local Goodwill ($7.99 sans shade)

My hubby said "the last thing you need is another lamp!"

Silly man! As if I could ever get too many charming lamps! *winks*

And While I really do appreciate my DH's opinion I've found that if I love it? Or even like something strongly?....Well better safe than sorry right?! I'm really glad I took it home. *winks*

On the other side of the sofa is this french Louis Philippe armoire that I use to store lots of little favorite bits. Usually gifts from friends and family.

Lots of stories in this armoire.

This lovely spelter bust is L'Automne"

And this handsome spelter gent is "Virgile"

I've been trying for years to figure out what this bronze box was used for? Cigars? Mens pretties? *winks* It has a hunting theme. Maybe you could help me? If any of you have any idea would you please share it with me?

I'm always amazed by all the collective wisdom out there in the land of blog!

On the opposite side of the room is my hubbys billard table (He HAD to have it!) And two of my 4 furbabies. Shelby (large) and Jewel (pom)

I like these silk striped drapes for their pop of color but they're going away because they just aren't "lush" enough. So stay tuned for some new draperies....I got 8 of them for $40! The chairs are 19th century french.

In the far corner sits a working telephone booth that I gave to my hubby for our anniversary.

A little settee and an eastlake victorian table are on this side. The throw is antique paisley.

And on the opposite side sits this behemoth of a bookcase. A turn of the century find from craigslist. It's really too large for the room and we scraped the ceiling just trying to get it in, but it was LOVE at first sight! And it's another one of my absolute favorites! *winks* Hopefully in my next house (when I win the lottery lol!) I'll have enough room for it.

Looking back across the room.

I hope you enjoyed this not so little tour of my family room? *winks*

And what I really want to ask you my oh so intelligent and design savy friends is: What color hardwood should I use on the floors? It's time for the carpet to go after wayyy too many years of this ugly. And I'm absolutely stuck in indecision!

I'd like to go with the dark hand scraped hardwood floors but my hubby made the point that it's dark here in the Pacific Northwest most of the year, and do we really want it to be darker? My answer was a quick "you bettcha!" But now in retrospect he might have a good point? So what do you think I should do? I'm counting on your expertise so I hope you'll leave me a comment and I'll do the same. You've seen all the different woods in this room so please help!

I LOVE to hear from you!

And please join me next week for more Flea Market Finds. I think I've found a few good things to share with ya *winks*

Vanna

I'm joining Sherry at No Minimalist Here for:

Courtney at French Country Cottage for:

And Cindy at My Romantic Home for:

Flea Market Finds Pour La Semaine Trente Cinq

2011-11-01T14:52:00.000-07:00

Bonjour my friends!

It's that time again.....

Time for FLEA MARKET FINDS!!

Which really should be titled this week

"How I found cheap cool stuff on ebay" *winks*

Alas I'm more than a little lean on the goods to share because of my (for me) extreme expenditures *sighs* I'm already eating (boxed) mac-n-cheese and I might have to add watered down beans shortly lol! But I did find a couple more French domes to add to my collection......Yes it actually IS a collection now because I have more than three! YAY!!

"When will she give those domes a rest?" You might be asking yourself....Well this is my last "dome hurrah" for a while. I'm plain out of space to display any more, so next week I have something completely different to share....And a question that I'd love for you to answer (maybe two?) so please come back OK? I'd really value your opinion.

But on to todays finds......

I'm starting with my second favorite find this time......To build tension......LOL!......No it's actually because as y'all know the first picture is the one that comes up on the blog posting and I thought this find was prettier *winks*

It's another globe de mariee with an unusual display case in pretty pink! Sooo dreamy girly fab!

You can read more about what the items in the globes symbolize HERE.

Come a little closer.... It contains the original bridal headpiece from the turn of the century and has flowers dipped in wax..... And isn't all that ruched pink silk luscious? *winks*

All of this "pretty" for under $200 including shipping from France! Now if you've ever priced these pieces in the US you know they tend to be uber expensive. I've found them to be so much more affordable if you buy them from ebay France HERE. Just look for the dealers who sell internationally (Monde entier) They won't show up on ebay US BUT your purchases will still be covered by paypal protection for your safety. And I've had good luck asking sellers who didn't offer international shipping if they'd be willing to make an exception? So far I've had two of them say "okey dokey". Just be sure to ask the seller to quote you a shipping price for double boxing (They're quite fragile) and make sure they include insurance. So far I've been very happy with the results. If you happen to find one for yourself please come get me! Pinky swear (pun intended) you will ok? *winks*

But this is actually my favorite find *winks*

It's a Globe de Oiseaux (Victorian taxidermy bird dome) I've wanted one of these for years but the price has always been prohibitive and they're quite rare, so when a seller I'd already purchased from asked me if I might be interested? I jumped at the chance! It contains 8 different taxidermy birds (I'm not sure what all of them are) and it's a good size too at 21" tall.

I think a few are hummingbirds because they're so small.

This is a sweet little parakeet.

Hummingbird?

Here are my three newest domes grouped together.

And here's a shot of my entire domed collection.

And lastly this Chinese lady figurine was $7.99 at the local Value Village.

I can always make a little more space for some chinoiserie chic *winks* I love her graceful hands.

Well that's all I have for this week.....I'm off to cook those beans lol!

I hope you'll come back next week for another visit. And please leave me a comment and I'll do the same. I LOVE to hear from you!

Vanna

I'm joing Marty at A Stroll Thru Life for:

Sherry at No Minimalist Here for:

Honey at 2805 for:

Courtney at French Country Cottage for:

And Cindy at My Romantic Home for:

Flea Market Finds Pour La Semaine Trente Quatre

2011-10-19T13:58:00.000-07:00

Hello fabulous ones!

I'm so happy you stopped by because it's time once again for..
FLEA........MARKET.......FINDS!!

WHOOP WHOOP!! Can I get a Skippity do?!! *winks*

How about a shabba dabba ding dong?!!

OK..... or maybe not lol!....Can I at least get you to take a look see, and leave me a comment? I've got my fingers crossed for that *winks*
I don't have much to share this week because I purchased a couple of pricey items that ate up my entire budget (And then some to be honest *winks*) But all the coming mac-n-cheese will be worth it....Eating can be so highly overrated! Lol!

As it often happens I have two favorites this week.

I'm going to start with this nifty bergere chair that I found for $65 at a local antique mall. The last cool frenchy (affordable) chair I found I let go to a friend so this time around I'm keeping this one!

Isn't it a cutie? I'm even digging the mustard yellow color *winks*

And do you spy IT in the background? If you've been reading my last couple of posts you might have guessed how enamoured I am with...Victorian Domes! So tied for first place......Yes another wonderful French victorian globe!! This one was an ebay find for $195 which I think is a really good price. The flowers are made of silk and the vase is Vieux Paris (Old Paris) porcelain.

The bouillotte lamp in the background was a $28 find from awhile ago.

Isn't it a pretty thing?! I'm obsessed with these beauties! Does anybody else feel that way about them?

And finally, at long last I found the perfect piece to fit in my cement grotto, this wonderful old chippy Madonna ($30) I think she's the perfect size....This was the third Madonna purchased for this grotto. The others just weren't quite the right so I'm happy the third one was the charm!

Perfectly mouldering and chippy *sighs*

I also received a special something in the mail from my friend Lana at Lana Austin Motif: blog. She has a lovely etsy store with lots of European treasures HERE She brought this lovely antique chandelier all the way from Italy for me. It needs to have a little work done but when I'm finished it's gonna look great! Thank you Lana I love it!! I can't wait to put it up in my guest room closet.

(I'm aiming for a chandelier in every room including the closets *winks*) I'll share that in a future post.

This french oak and rattan coffee table was another find from my trip with my friend Joyce a few weeks ago. It needs a glass piece for the top but at $49 I thought the price was pretty good!

Dont'cha love the little escargot (snails in french) feet?

I found these two antique shades for $8 each at a local antique store. They're pretty tattered and timeworn but I still love em! Now I just need to find the perfect lamps.......

And finally this frenchy shelf from the Goodwill for $2.99. It's a horrible gold (and plastic) so I won't feel bad about painting it a nice creamy white and using it outside.

That's all for this week my friends.

I hope you'll come back next week when I'll have one more very special victorian globe to share with you.

I hope you'll leave me a comment and I'll do the same because I LOVE hearing from you! And I LOVE visiting you too!

Vanna

I'm joining Sherry at No Minimalist Here for:

Courtney at French Country Cottage for:

Honey at 2805 for:

And Cindy at My Romantic Home for:

Flea Market Finds Pour La Semaine Trente Trois

2011-10-12T14:56:00.000-07:00

Bonjour beautiful peeps!!

It time once again for....

FLEA.... MARKET.... FINDS!!

Where I like to pretend that I found some great deal at a flea market (Delusional remember?...) *winks* but probably more often than not payed too much at an antique or thrift store lol!

Anyhoo as usual I'm starting with my favorite find for the week and that would be yet another French globe de mariee......Are you tired of those yet?
I sure hope not because I have couple more beauties to share with you *winks*

This one comes via ebay and it's a little different from the other globes I've shared.

The shape is quite different and it has beautiful bronze details. I've been having fun decorating the interior with different little bits found around the house. Here I've placed a french cherub inkwell with some pearls and a rose. I'm in love with it!!

Close up.

Sorry about the glare there just wasn't any way around it.

This is what it looks like empty. I think originally perhaps it would've had one of the display chairs that are found in my other domes?

But all that empty space is great for display!!

Here I've tried out a few of my figurines featuring sheep.

And do you see the rug in the background? it's an antique french aubusson in really rough shape, but for $30 at a local estate sale I couldn't say no *winks*

This Victorian bead work footstool was a find from my trip last week with my friend Joyce. I'll be selling it in my enabler boutique.

I love the paisley bead work!

This frenchy jardiniere was another Centralia find. I'm thinking about painting it gray? What do you think?

This little bronze basket of enamel flowers was $3.99 at the local Value Village. I thought it was a little expensive, but there was something kinda cool about it.....Well I found an almost identical one on ebay for $99! Whoo hoo!! An actual good deal! I just love when that happens! *winks*

And I had to add another boudoir doll to the collection. This french doll with her little bitter pill expression spoke to me *winks* (She probably said "Take me home you crazy American lady!") I felt kinda sorry for her. Doesn't she look like she's having a bad day? Lol!

The sweet little kewpie doll was a find at Maison de Wine and Wienies for $14.

A shot with the shabby girls.

This 1920's boudoir doll head was $8. I think she originally would've been on a pillow.

And this charming large shabby frenchy statue of two children was a local antique mall find for $12. The roses are the last of the poor waterlogged flowers in my yard.

The lace tablecloth in the background was a $4.99 find at the Goodwill. It has stains and some holes but it also has tons of filet lace featuring one of my favorite things......

Peacocks!!

This set of ballerina boudoir lamps are pretty for $65, but I really purchased them for their lovely flower shades

I have plans for these babies!

And lastly a cherub lamp from the Goodwill for 99 cents. I need to fill in some chips and paint it, but I think it's a project even I can tackle *winks* Wish me luck!

Thanks for stopping by! I hope you'll come back next week for more flea market finds. I'll be sharing my finished lamp. I hope you'll leave me a comment and I'll do the same. As always I LOVE to hear from you!!

Vanna

I'm joining Sherry at No Minimalist Here for:

Kathleen at Charm Bracelet Diva for:

Honey at 2805 for:

Courtney at French Country Cottage for:

And Cindy at My Romantic Home for:

Flea Market Finds Pour Le Semaine Trente deux

2011-10-05T15:47:00.000-07:00

Bonjour my friends!

It's time once again for....

FLEA....MARKET.....FINDS!!!

Which in this instance includes absolutely nothing from a flea market or thrift store...But I did find some stuff that I'm crazy for!....AND I found it with my former blogging and now real life friend Joyce from the blogs Monticello Antique Marketplace (Where she is the manager) and Calamity Janes' Life & Style

We had the best time hitting the streets of Centralia Washington! I have a few things to share this week from that shopping trip and more to come next week. *winks*

But first I want to announce the winners of my blog followers giveaway. Thank you to everyone who left me a comment! You are all so appreciated!

The numbers were selected randomly by my hubby. Sooooo....

The winner of group one (the canisters) Is Betsy of My Salvaged Treasures

The winner of group two (the pitcher, journal and frame) is Lana of Lana Austin Motif.

And the winner of group three (fairy vase) is Kim of Moonlight dreams.

Congratulations you three! And please email me at jewlbearvonhoyt@msn.com with the addresses to which you'd like your items sent.

Ok on to the finds!

Starting as always with my favorites, which this week was a three way tie. And the theme for the week was "France"...Not much of a surprise if you follow my blog *winks* "Francophile" should be my middle name lol! I found three different couronnes de mariee. "What the heck are those?" You might be asking? Well..... they're the interior display pieces from Globes de mariee, which are french brides domes from the victorian period. You can see my other post HERE to find more about them. I can't get enough of these beauties!

This first one makes a perfect display for one of my favorite Marie Antoinette boudoir dolls.

And without the doll.

Marie is gazing fondly at this petite jewel box featuring a picture of the Eiffel tower. An ebay find.

This next couronne is loaded with lots of beautiful porcelain roses and the bridal headpiece.

I love all the pink!

And this third is more of an upright style for showcasing the bridal headpiece.

It has all these beautiful etched glass mirror pieces.

I didn't even notice until I got it home that it had the initials of the bride and groom. An "M" for the groom.

And an "R" for the bride.

I've placed it in my living room for now with another globe de mariee.

This is a shot of my beautiful friend Joyce and I at the Olympic Club in Centralia where we had lunch. It was really cool and loaded with antiques....including us! Lol!

Joyce (Sweetheart that she is) brought a little gift with her for me that she thought had my name on it......A 1920's boudoir doll in a lovely tattered silk dress......

Boy was she right!! Thank you soooo much Joyce! I adore her!!

I found these victorian brides shoes (1880's) in kid leather ($43) while out shopping with Joyce. I love their ruffled fronts.

I added them to this globe de mariee and they fit perfectly! I'd like to also mention that they fit me perfectly! What a thrill! Those victorian ladies were notorious for their teeny tiny feet *winks* Sorry they're hard to see.

Here's a group shot of some of them.

This chippy rusty metal cherub planter ($30) was another favorite find. I filled it with dried hydrangeas

Isn't he a cutie?!

And lastly this pretty boudoir doll with human hair and a net lace gown to add to my collection in the doll armoire.

She has such a sweet wistful expression.

Well that's all the finds for this week. I hope you'll come back next week for more flea market finds. I have some neat stuff to share *winks*

Please leave me a comment and I'll do the same. I LOVE hearing from you!

Vanna

I'm joining Kathleen at Charm Bracelet Diva for Club G.W.

Sherry at No Minimalist Here for Open House Friday.

Honey at 2805 for Potpourri Friday.

Courtney at French Country Cottage for Feathered Nest Friday.

And Cindy at My Romantic Home for Show And Tell Fridays.

Pamela at From My Front Porch To Yours for Treasure Hunt Thursdays.

Blog Followers GIVEAWAY!!

2011-09-29T11:30:00.000-07:00

I'm forgoing the usual flea market finds post today to say a HUGE THANK YOU!! To all my followers/friends old and new! I now have over 300! ......SHOCKERS GALORE! Lol!

I can't tell you how much I appreciate each and every one of you! So today I thought I'd offer a few little tokens of appreciation. Nothing fancy mind you, but some cute little pressies I hope? *winks*

All you have to do to win is: Be one of my lovely followers and leave me a message telling me which group you would like to have? (There are 3 and each comment counts as an entry) Or if you don't like any of them? I'd still LOVE to hear from ya! *winks* I'll have the hubster pick out three random numbers and the winners will be announced next Wednesday.

Starting with group 1)

A set of three cute locking numbered canisters. Very country kitchen! Perfect for some candy corn......

Group #2

A sweet little blingy frame or Christmas ornament and a darling ornate little white ironstone pitcher AND a little french style journal with lots of blank pages to write lots of neat little notes (Maybe even en francais?) *winks*

And in the "Oh my goodness what was I thinkin' when I bought this" category is this little vase featuring a fairy with roses and a butterfly. It isn't "me" but it's so pretty and sweet! Maybe it would work for you?

So leave me a comment and I'll leave you one too *winks*

I'm joining Courtney at French Country Cottage for Feathered Nest Friday

And Cindy at My Romantic Home for Show And Tell Fridays.

Flea Market Finds Pour Le Semaine Trente et un

2011-09-21T15:47:00.000-07:00

Howdy y'all!

It's that time again.....Time for......

FLEA MARKET FINDS!!!

Yay whoohoo yippee!....Whoop-ti-do!!

That's about as exciting as it's gonna get because I had another completely unmotivated shopping week. I only made two stops. One at the Goodwill and another to one of my favorite shopping destinations..... Centralia Washington.

I think I'm feeling a little blue about the end of summer. We barely had one this year......But enough sorry moaning about that. On to the finds....

I'll start as usual with my favorite find, beginning with this 10' pair of antique columns from Centralia for $120. They're the perfect worn shabby chippy gray. I placed them in my small home gym. Now I just need some wonderful capitals to top them so I'll be on the hunt. Wish me luck! *winks*And if you happen to come across some come get me OK?

Formerly I had this French armoire in this spot. But when I moved it to my closet HERE I needed something to fill the space so I found this vintage credenza at the Goodwill for $7.99 and placed the large mirror on top. This is all temporary as there will be a large screen TV going up in December..... (Christmas pressie to ourselves) Hopefully that will motivate me to get off my bum and move!... I have my fingers crossed!*winks* ?

Here's a close up. I'm thinking of adding some sconces to the columns. What do you think should I?

And from etsy I found this rare lingerie boudoir doll ($34.50) with a French silk face to add to my growing collection.

Isn't she in amazing condition for around 90 yrs old?

This sweet pair of Alexander Backer children were found in Centralia for a song. The urn the little girl is carrying had a broken handle on one side so the hubby drilled a hole in it and I added some roses to cover the break and.....voila! I like them even better!

This cute little boy gone fishin' was also an etsy find.

I've had this cool old cement grotto for awhile now and have been looking for the perfect figure to place in it. This statue of Mary was also an etsy find and a bargain basement price because her neck had been broken at one time. I fell in love with her sweet face.

Then I ran across this chippy cement statue of an angel at the Goodwill for $12 and thought it might be a better fit in size? What do you think? Should I just keep on looking? Neither is quite as tall as they probably should be.

This cherub sconce was found in Centralia.

And this large cherub topper was $2.99 at the Goodwill. I think I'll be painting it in gesso a la my friend Rosemary at Villa Barnes.

This mardi gras style mask was $1.99 at the Goodwill. I added it to my to my Jeanne D'arc bust. I love to decorate her for the holidays *winks*

A finally a few books at $1 each.

Well that's all for this week. I hope you'll leave me a comment and I'll do the same. I LOVE to hear from you!

And please come back next week for more flea market finds. I have a very special something to share with you. *winks*

Vanna

I'm joining Sherry at No Minimalist Here for Open House Party

Kathleen at Charm Bracelet Diva for Club G.W.

Honey at 2805 for Potpourri Friday

Courtney at French Country Cottage for Feathered Nest Friday

And Cindy at My Romantic Home for Show and Tell Friday

Flea Market Finds Pour Semaine De Trente

2011-09-14T18:34:00.000-07:00

It's that time of the week again for....

FLEA MARKET FINDS!!!!

Or the closest thing to it I can find in my neck of the world *winks*

I wasn't in a shopping mood this last week

(Yes hell is in fact freezing over *winks*)

so nothing too fabulous to share, just a few neat things (I hope?)

I'm starting with my second favorite find as my first is perhaps just a tad too risque to be showing up on the blogs of those sweet folks who are kind enough to have me on their blog lists.....You'll see what I mean.....

Anyhoo this week the theme was dolls. I found a few to add to my boudoir doll collection. And as usual the 1920's played a big role too.

This 1920's wax over composition doll was quite a rare find. She's actually an old powder box that I've filled with some chocolates....because I have my priorities *winks* I've been collecting these boudoir dolls for a little while now and although there are many of the doll powder boxes, this is one of the only ones I've seen like this so I'm thrilled to have her!

Box of chocolates....Yumm!! I've got plenty for you and me! *winks*

OK.... WARNING......

If nekkid ladies bother you? You'll want to skip the next two pictures, but for those who love nudes like I do, this one is kind of special. She's a rare incense burner named the "Smoking Venus" She's a little rough around the edges but I've been searching for one for years. They usually go way out of my price range ($500+ with clothes on, the nudes are more expensive yet) but I found this one for $160 and snapped her up faster than you can say "Have you got a light?" Lol!

She burns cone incense under her stool....seat....bottom? (There's just no way to make this sound right, but you get the idea) which comes out of her mouth as if she's smoking. She really IS smoking hot! Haha!

I couldn't capture just how perfectly it spirals out of her mouth and hangs in the air, but you can see how she works here.

Another favorite find was this bouillotte lamp (Pronounced Boo-yacht) Bouillotte was a french card game that was popular in the 18th century and this type of lamp would've been placed in the center of the gaming table providing light and the basket base would've held gaming chips. The shade is tole (enamelled or lacquered metal ware) and adjusts up or down to conform to the candles burned. My 1920's lamp has both light bulbs and spots for candles. The arrow at the top adjusts the height up and down the center pole. This style lamp is one of my absolute favorites and can be quite expensive, but I found this one at a local antique store for $50 which is quite a steal! Yippee!! I'm trying it out to see if I like it in my living room.

Another rare 1920's boudoir doll find was this wax over composition munzerlite vanity doll lamp. Although I've seen lots of the boudoir doll lamps I've never seen one like this before with metal hangers that would allow her to hang on the mirror of a vanity. so I had to have her even though she's a little rough as well. *winks*

From one of my favorite online shops Maison De Wine And Wienies came this cool 1920's picture frame with barbola detail. Now living in my closet armoire.

And another sweet boudoir lady missing an arm but still very charming don't you think?

Also from Maison De Wine And Wienies this rare doll powder puff.

Her silk dress is shredded but she's still lovely to me.

And this find is a bit strange. I don't know if he represents a saint? Or Jesus? Did he come from a church? I have no idea. Maybe one of you will know? But he was too interesting to pass up.....Though I probably should have because there's zippo room at my house *winks*

And back again to the 1920's where women wore dresses and men wore....makeup? Check em out! *winks* this tin tray was $10. I love the graphics.

Close up.

I think it will fit in perfectly with my boudoir ladies.

(You can click to enlarge)

And finally a couple of art nouveau trinket boxes found on etsy at $30 for the set. The smallest case has a cherub on top and I'm a cherub-o-holic!!

Still bearing remnants of their original silk.

Well that's it for this week. I hope you'll join me again next week for more flea market finds.

Please leave me a message and I'll do the same.

I LOVE to hear from you!!

Vanna

I'm joining Sherry at No Minimalist Here for Open House Party.

Marty at a Stroll Thru Life for Table Top Tuesday

Kathleen at Charm Bracelet Diva for Club G.W.

The fabulous Honey at 2805 for Potporri Friday

Courtney at French Country Cottage for Feathered Nest Friday

And Cindy at My Romantic Home for Show And Tell Fridays

An Evening In Paris~My French Garret Living Room

2011-09-08T01:40:00.000-07:00

The year and place: 1920's Paris

Time: The blue hour..........

Music: Mozart Lacrimosa

Mood: Anticipatory with a palpable sense of romance

Scent: The lightest hint of freesia wafting gently through the air rising from the vantines incense burner.

A conversation starts with the mundane details of the day, and as the air cools and it grows ever darker outside the talk turns to more important subjects.....Such as dreams.....and hopes...and the deepest desires of the soul.......

Tonight is a French dream to be remembered and savored......tomorrow.

Thank you for stopping by and letting me indulge in my French fantasy *winks*

I hope you'll come back next week for Flea Market Finds.

And please leave me a comment and I'll do the same.

I LOVE to hear from you!

Vanna

I'm joining Ann at On Sutton Place for:

And Marty at A Stroll Thru Life for:

Courtney at French Country Cottage:

Cindy at My Romantic Home for:

Honey at 2805 for:

Sunday Favorites French Blue Love

2011-09-03T23:26:00.000-07:00

I'm joining my friend Chari today at Happy To Design for Sunday Favorites. Which offers a chance for us to revisit a favorite post from the past. This one is from December of 2010. I hope you enjoy seeing it again.

Hi everybody! I hope you all had a wonderful Christmas and New Years!

Some of you from wayyyyy back might remember a similar picture to this one in my blog header. It featured one of my favorite pieces, a beautiful french blue opaline urn with lid.

I found the urn many years ago and paid under $100 for it. I didn't know anything about opaline glass at the time I just loved the color and form.

Well.... one day recently while searching ebay I came across an identical urn from a seller in Sweden. And I won it for not much more than I paid for my original piece! Yippeee!!! I just love when that happens!

So I'd like to share my very small (almost) collection and a couple of other pretties.

Do you see the small pale blue french opaline half egg watch display? That was another ebay find for cheaps. Inside I have a couple of special treasures.......

Can you see? There's a small timeworn locket and a small brass ring.
I found the locket in the pocket of an old coat I'd purchased at the Goodwill. And the childs ring belonged to my Grandmother.

Here's a closeup of the locket.

And inside are two pictures of someone who must have been very special to her husband?... or children?....She's a wonderful mystery to me.

It looks like one features her as a young woman and another as she got older? Don't you think?

Here is my Grandmothers childhood ring. When she died she had virtually nothing to her name. But she kept this small ring in a locked strong box along with a picture of her parents so I know it must have been very precious to her, and it's one of my most prized posessions.

And here's my new opaline urn! Just look at those cute little lion paw feeties!! Aren't they cute?!

Santa (aka my hubby) was very kind to me this year and bought me this beautiful (well at least it is to me *winks*) bronze french clock....And I had an AH HA!" moment. The blue of the clock was a pretty close match to the opaline urns and I thought they might make good clock garnitures?
Here's the clock....It doesn't function...It's just a beautiful shell but I don't care!

Of course it has a cutie cherub!

And some swag-o-liciousness!

What do you think? Do they work together?

I've been trying them out in various areas of my home and haven't found quite the right place yet....

(You can click to get the larger view)

I tried them in the livingroom.. but not quite working. I have WAYY to many collections! I know I need to edit. But what to get rid of?? It's so tough when you love EVERYTHING! Hopefully you won't see me on that hoarders show, but I make no promises! *winks*

Here is another sweet french blue and bronze piece (An inkwell maybe?) I just love that color! Can you see the little birdie on top?

I also have a couple of bristol glass vases in a similar blue.

And this lustre found for $28 on ebay.

(Melanie are you listening? *winks*)

I bring Melanie my new blogging friend from The Tiny Tudor into this because she's contemplating her first ebay purchase. And I'm so excited for her! And dying to see her first ebay treasure! Ebay is another one of my favorite things!!

I LOVE when this happens!

I found this (nearly) identical urn below on the web here for $795!

And this very similar urn is on ebay for $1495 or best offer....Do you think they'd accept my offer for $90?...Probably not! I think I did pretty good! But it could also be that the sellers have been smoking some funny stuff (you know what I mean *winks*) It's amazing that there are such large discrepencies in pricing isn't it?!

If you're interested in learning about french opaline glass? Joni at the Cote De Texas did a wonderful story here. I learned a ton from her!

Thanks again for stopping by! I hope you'll come by again soon! And please stop by Chari's place to see the many other Sunday Favorites. Just click on the logo below.

Vanna

Flea Market Finds Pour La Semaine Vingt-Neuf

2011-08-30T21:04:00.000-07:00

It's time once again for

(what passes for.... *winks*)

FLEA MARKET FINDS!!!

of the week

Can I get a WHOOP WHOOP!!??

How bout a YEE HAW!!??

OK too much? .....Yeah I thought so too..... Sorry...

I'm just so excited about my finds!

You see I've wanted this special something something ever since I started seeing beautiful statuary pieces like it around the blogosphere.

So I was cruising craigslist (as usual) and there it was! Just waiting for ME!! A HUGE (well at least to me, she's 5' tall) nude maiden *sighs dreamily* Can you say *swoon-o-licious*!!

I'm not certain where she'll end up living? ~~I've~~ ...Ahem... actually the hubby has been dragging her around the house...which by the way is no easy task because she weighs 200 lbs!

But anyhoo this is where she resides for now.

There's still some lichen in the cracks to remove but it's LOVE for me!! 100 well spent dollars!

The guy who sold her to me said they'd found her burried in the bushes in their backyard and his wife didn't want it around. When I told him I would be putting her in my livingroom, he thought I was nuts! Lol!

Isn't she fab!?

My second favorite find was this AMAZING 1930's french doll by Bernard Ravca 15" tall. This is in likeness of the 1930's movie star Alice Faye.

Have you ever heard of her? I hadn't (Finally something before my time! *winks*) but back in the 30's she was one of Hollywood's top movie stars.

I spotted the doll on ebay and instantly fell in love with her!

She still sports her original tag which is actually signed by Bernard Ravca.

About Ravca:

Bernard Ravca was a French artisan, who crafted many different costume and character dolls from many different materials, including crepe paper, papier maché, felt, clay and combinations of materials. The needled stockinette faces are perhaps the best known of his dolls, on which detailed and realistic expressions are sculpted onto the stockinette by means of tightly pulled stitching. His dolls were made in France from about 1924 to 1939. In 1939, he came to New York City and continued to make dolls to great acclaim. The most frequently found Ravca dolls are small, 7.5" -10", but he made dolls of many various sizes, including life-sized children and adult characters.

The Ravca dolls were sometimes signed in ink on their bodies and others on their tags. Some pre-1939 dolls had paper tags, imprinted "Original Ravca Fabrication Francaise" or woven labels designating "MADE IN FRANCE". There have been many Ravca-type dolls made over the years, so without signature or tags, it is almost impossible to verify an original Ravca, unless it can be favorably compared to a documented Ravca original.

Her signed tag.

Who could resist that big goofy grin? *winks* Not me that's for sure!

Dolls turned out to be my theme for the week.

I found this little shell art piece at the Goodwill for 99 cents and I added this little Italian doll bust from ebay to it....Now she's living a shell-tered life! Lol!

Now on this next one I don't want to creep you out.....but I went to a car show with the hubbs this weekend and found this 1960's Suzie-kins styling mannequin for $10. I've been having a blast trying on different hats and styling her real hair.

I purchased her at the beginning of the show and carried her through the ENTIRE show which was a huge conversation starter! I heard "Are you a head hunter?" And "What did she say to make you THAT angry?" Message to self...If you want people to chat you up...... carry a mannequin head around with you! *winks*

This little boudoir doll box was an ebay find. She's a ~~little~~ LOT rough around the edges but still very charming don'tcha think? These are very hard to find in any shape so she's a keeper for me.

The wig is a replacement.

The interior.

I found this alter style candlestick lamp at the Goodwill. I love the huge metal moroccan looking plull!

And the basket was also a $4.99 Goodwill find. The birdcage and Victorian beaded needlepoint picture of Saint Peter came from a local estate sale.

Cool pull huh?

The cage is an antique brass Hendryx. It'll be going to my etsy for anyone who might be interested.

This antique beaded needlepoint picture reminded me of something my friend Richard would have in his Old Historic House. *winks*

It's hard to see but his entire robe is made up of different colored glass beads. His hands and feet are done in micro petit point. Some poor victorian lady spent a good long time on this one! I'm thinking it would make a beautiful pillow?

This 1920's tin (with handle) of Christopher Columbus and Queen Isabella (?) was a $1.99 Goodwill find.

And last but not least I'd like to introduce you to "Sandi" She's named in honor of my new friend Sandi from the wonderful blog A Cottage Muse who's just about as crazy for boudoir dolls as I am! You can see hers HERE. I begged her to name one of hers Vanna! So maybe you could stop by and tell her you think so too? *wink wink nudge nudge*

Thank you so much for stopping by!

Next week I'll be forgoing the flea markets finds to share with you....

An Evening In Paris (my Paris garret livingroom)

I hope you'll come back for a visit.

And please leave me a comment and I'll do the same for you *winks*

As always I LOVE to hear from you!

Vanna

I'm joining my friend Marty at A Stroll Thru Life for:

And Kathleen at Charm Bracelet Diva for:

Ann at On Sutton Place for:

Courtney at French Country Cottage for:

And Cindy at My Romantic Home for:

And Honey at 2805 for:

My Paris Garret Closet.....

2011-08-24T13:23:00.000-07:00

OK I feel a little bit uncomfortable showing you my (not at all special) closet. Especially after the teasers for the last couple of weeks......I'm GOING WHERE NO WOMAN HAS GONE BEFORE! (Cue the Star Trek music) LOL! You see it's totally a builders grade cheap and blah space........But I longed for a little bit of "French pizazz"! (Me.... imagine that *winks*) I didn't want to go in there every morning and think to myself "this is just plain ugly" *sighs* Alas I don't currently have the funds to transform my little closet into the Parisian palace I'd love it to be, but with the help of a few special blogging friends I did manage to add a few fabulous elements!

So come on in and I'll show you what I DO love about my closet.....You first... I know it's going to get a little tight in here *winks*

I started by adding a "closet" to my closet lol! If you read my blog you know how much I adore French armoires! So I thought "hey why not put one in the closet?" I have them in pretty much every other room in the house *winks* So voila! BIG french flavor!.....Little unhappy husband with sore back, but that's another story.......*winks*

Do you see the screen to the left? "Really"( you're asking yourself) " how could I miss it? I've got my nose practically squeezed into it in here!" *winks*

Well it came all the way from Missouri from my dear friend Richard's store. Richard has the most wonderful blog "My Old Historic House" HERE. When you've managed to squeeze out of my closet please give him a visit. Can you say "eye candy WITH an education" BIG time! You'll leave Richards having learned something new each time you visit! *winks*

Anyhoo turn slightly to the left and get a close up view of my wonderful new/old screen! Isn't it pretty AND frenchy?! I'm loving it Richard! Thank you!!

I stole the LV from the bedroom so I could pretend I was going on a fabulous trip to Paris *winks* (If I sold it I actually COULD go on a fabulous trip to Paris! LOL!!) And to be honest because my poor closet can use all the "bling factor" it can get. *winks*

The Dior shoes are just for looking pretty too because they absolutely kill my feet!! And after what I paid for them they need to be good for something! Haha!

Such a pretty and ornate top....Just the way I like em!

And since we're talking about Richard here, check out this vision of loveliness! I won this pillow from Richard's blog giveaway. No wonder I love that man huh? *winks* It's one of the most gorgeous pillows I've ever seen!! 1920's pale yellow silk with french lace appliques and ribbon roses surrounded by marabou! *swoons* French flavor for sure don'tcha think?

It came to me looking like this. Even Richards wrapping is beautiful!

This is another of the french elements that I love having in here. This beautiful wedding cake chandelier came all the way from France via Leeann's blog Fabulously French. She has some lovely french treasures in her store. This beauty was only $200 with shipping. I think that was quite a steal! The pheasants on top of the armoire agree, they can't take their eyes off of it.....Literally! Lol! *winks* Merci Leeann!

Now turning toward the armoire I'll open up the doors (If you can take a step back?) and I'll share a few new (and not so new) things with you.

This sweet French girl bust came from my shabby bedroom. I ran out of space in the armoire there, so I glammed her up a bit and placed her in here with some of my favorite hats. Which by the way I wear frequently. I wish we'd go back to wearing hats. I think they add so much personality!...And hide bad hair days...Not that I ever have any of those...Just sayin' *winks*

This beautiful french maiden lamp contributes to the french flavor and adds some much needed light.

Going down a shelf I found this little chubby cherub clock at a local antique store.

I also found a couple of new boudoir dolls to add to my collection. The pretty lady on the left broke her neck in shipping and the seller refunded my money so she was FREE!! I put a pretty ribbon splint on her neck and she's good to go!

She loves the Viktor & Rolfe Flower Bomb perfume and so do I! *winks*

And a new Marie Antoinette doll who appears to be checking out a portrait of herself *winks*

Isn't she exquisite in her tattered blue silk?! She's my new favorite!

These lovely roses came in the package from Richard and the little cherubs in the background also came from his store....Good stuff I tell ya!

To the right of the dolls is this precious little jewel casket that I found at my new friend Peg's shop Maison De Wine And Wienies. It's my newest favorite online shop! Really good prices! I've purchased quite a few things from her now and I can tell you that she's lovely to deal with! The large cherub tray that the ladies are sitting on also came from Peg's store.

You've heard of the "bluebird of happiness? Well this is the silver glitter bird of bliss! Because things that sparkle make me blissful! Ha ha!

In the "found at the Goodwill category" (So I can Join Kathleen's party at Charm Bracelet Diva *winks*) is this Italian majolica pottery vase featuring beautiful dancing ladies on three sides for $6.99.

This vintage carpet is also a $15 Goodwill find from awhile back.

What's that you say? You're" getting claustrophobic and need to get out!"....Errr....oops!......Oh my!....... I'm trying to move aside....really I am!...... but it's a little crowded..... Didn't mean to pinch that! ......well maybe I did *winks*

The cherub twins on the shelf say "goodbye!" Thanks for stopping by my closet! Hope you didn't get any bruises?

I hope you'll come back next week when Flea Market Finds returns.

Please leave me a comment and I'll do the same. I LOVE to hear from you!

Vanna

I'm (of course) joining Kathleen At Charm Bracelet Diva for:

I'm joining Marty at A Stroll Thru Life for:

I'm also joining Ann of On Sutton Place while she hosts for the next three weeks:

And Courtney at French Country Cottage for:

Cindy at My Romantic Home for:

Flea Market Finds Pour La Vingt-Huit

2011-08-17T15:04:00.000-07:00

Bonjour beautiful friends!

It's that time of the week again... for...

Flea.... Market.... Finds..!!!

Also known as "what I spent way too much money on last week" Lol!

I'll start with an apology for not sharing (yet) what I'd hinted about last week. A delivery from a special blogging friend.

It's going to take one more week to get it right (hopefully worth the wait *winks*)

In the mean time I have a few little things to share with you.

I have another two way tie for my favorite this week.

I'll start with this dress form that I found at a local antique mall for $70. It's not a great price, but I do so love vintage dress forms!

Unfortunately it started out an ugly plaid. This just wouldn't work in my shabby bedroom HERE.... so.....inspired by Rosemary at Villabarnes I gesso'd it!

It still needs a few more coats (I found out fabric can REALLY soak up gesso!) but it's working for me now! *winks*

Do you see the jewelry I've placed on it? I know it's not the most attractive mix *winks*

Well.... I found a box of old costume jewelry at a garage sale for $25. Nothing too special, but boy did I have a ton of fun taking out each little baggy filled with a surprise of some sort! Mostly vintage necklaces from the 50's. So I draped a few of them to show you.

Here's a box view.

Then my other favorite item was a nude statue I found on craigslist for $25 to match my white one. I love old nude statues of beautiful maidens! Don't you?

The headboard piece in the background is part of an antique French bed found atToday's Country Store in Sumner Wa. for $95

I found this addition to my rhinestone collection for $22. It has big chunky rhinestones, filigree, and faux pearls too.... Yippee! Can you say "bling-a-ding!!! You can see more of my little (but growing) collection HERE.

It still even has some powder left!

And another find, this vintage rhinestone necklace from the Goodwill for $3.

This little Rosy pitcher was also a Goodwill find for $2.99. I filled it with dried flowers from my yard.

And in the "OMG why does she keep buying the same thing over and over" category, I've added a couple of new jewel caskets to my P.N.C.W. (Progress Novelty Casting Works) collection. They are a little different......really!...*winks*

I can't get enough of Marie Antoinette and 18th century ladies!

None entirely perfect, but perfectly charming none the less.

Yep and again! This one's in black....See...a little different right? Lol!

That's all for this week.

I hope you'll come back next week for more flea market finds. And hopefully I'll have my little surprise ready too *winks*

I hope you'll leave me a comment and I'll do the same for you.

I love hearing from you!

Vanna

I'm joining my friend Sherry at No Minimalist Here for:

And Kathleen at Charm Bracelet Diva for:

Courtney at French Country Cottage for:

Cindy at My Romsntic Home for:

Flea Market Finds Pour La Vingt-Sept

2011-08-10T12:20:00.000-07:00

It's time once again for........FLEA........MARKET.........FINDS!!!

The continuing bargain adventures of moi and my single handed effort to keep this economy alive! Haha!

I didn't purchase much, but once again I really LOVE what I found!

So without further ado I'll go straight to my favorites.....

This set of old concrete cherubs. Each 20" tall.....I couldn't believe my ears when I asked the price at a local antique/junk store and the owner told me $35 for the two!! Glory Hallelujah!! I just LOVE me some cherub fountain spitters!! So aged, so chippy, so shabulous! (shabby fabulous!)*winks*

And another large piece of coral to add to my collection inspired by my new friend Joyce HERE

Really just check out her blog header and come right back ok?......Isn't it dreamy?!!

Don'tcha just love the dolphins?!

And those chubby little cherub knees?!!!

More of those HERE.

I also found this frenchy pair of alter style candlesticks for $6! I grabbed them up faster than you could say "Bonjour!"

And this antique lace dresser scarf has more holes than swiss cheese but for $2 I had to have it. *winks*

The antique screen in the background was $37 at a local antique mall. It was once covered in old wallpaper appliques but only one remains. Too bad because I really love them, but I'll probably re-cover the screen with some vintage toile.

Close up on the applique.

This chandelier was FREE on craigslist!! I added some crystals and voila! French flavor! Which is my favorite flavor by far! *winks*

All together.

And a new addition to my boudoir doll lamp collection. This beautiful lady was a great score at $18 on ebay!

I love the little fan ornament in her hair.

And finally a pair of softest pink ballet pointe shoes for $7 to add to my growing collection.

That's all for this week, but I did purchase a special something from a very special blogger that I've been dying to share! So please come back next week to see my new surprise *winks*

I'd love if you left me a comment and I'll do the same for you.

LOVE to hear from YOU!

Vanna

I'm joining Sherry at No Minimalist Here for:

Kathleen at Charm Bracelet Diva for:

Courtney at French Country Cottage for:

Cindy at My Romantic Home for: