Thrifty finds and a little history lesson

Yesterday was a rare day when the whole family wanted to go with me to some thrift stores. I picked up a few treasures. This cute little squirrel toothpick holder was too adorable to pass up for 25 cents. Made in Japan in 1978! Drama Queen wanted to put it in her room on her shelf-I had to wrestle it from her hands!!! At another thrift store, I found this plate for under $3. I bought it because I liked the white and black look. Plus the little picture was intriguing too. Maybe it's the historian in me but I love to come home and try to research my treasures. Where they came from, what they were used for, etc. I found out that this plate marked Sterling on the back is restaurant ware. What I also discovered was the Nassau Inn. It's in Princeton, NJ! It still is in business and with a rich history. I linked my title to the official website-very interesting! In 1776, the signers of the Declaration of Independence stayed there.

Then it makes me wonder-how did this plate get to Northern California from New Jersey? One of these days if I ever make it to Princeton-say Boy Wonder gets accepted there- I may just have to check out the restaurant!

So for under $4-I am a happy camper. Not only did I pick up some things that I liked but also have some history. It really doesn't take much to make me happy!!! Does anyone else like to research their treasures?

Shabby dry goods new online store and giveaway

New online store and she is giving away a Starbucks gift card!

A New Year, A few changes to my mantel

Late night, last night playing games and eating-6 kids running around yelling and having a good(sometimes a little grumpy) time. The Smith Hotel's yearly January 1st's tradition of heading to the snow for some snowman building and sledding with friends is minus Mrs. Smith and Snow(the dog). I am not a lover of snow or being cold. Maybe it has something to do with growing up in Southern California (we weren't rich-my dad was an elementary teacher and we shopped at Kmart not Nordstroms). So the house is quiet and I decided to fix my mantel.

I added shutters that I had purchased at a thrift store for $3. I bought them without having any clue what to use them for but I couldn't pass them up. I felt like more "height" was needed around the mirror. What do you think?

I used the ladder. Can you see how tall that mantel is? I didn't get hurt either (just an FYI for my mom and Mr. Smith).

Snow is soooo tired from partying last night. I just had to take a picture of her. I know she is enjoying the quiet house too.

Vintage Junky giveaway

Michelle at Vintage Junky is giving away 2 really cute pillows. Check it out!

Happy New Year

Happy New Year!!! Here's looking at another year!!!

Every year I wonder-"Why do I have to stay up till midnight?" Good night!