Growin' Up

Minneapple | Nice ride!

2011-06-01T12:01:00.004-04:00

Memorial Day weekend meant packing up for my big move (to a new apartment - more on that soon!) but I did allow myself one day of no packing or purging. Saturday I decided it was high time I checked out the Mill City Farmer's Market, and what better way to get there than by bike. Though I've not yet found a bike of my very own the Nice Ride bikes scattered across the city are convenient and with a bit of patience and planning you can keep it to about $5 for your entire outing.

Mill City is a local 'waste-free' market and while taking in spectacular views of the Mississippi and the beautiful old mills you can find just about anything you'd ever want or maybe, like me, you never knew such things existed - from Danish Æbleskiver to Minnesota specialties like Chokeberry Jam and wild rice blueberry pancakes. My favourite stall was 'Classic Tailors' who've turned feedsacks into jackets, bloomers and dresses, and all the while keeping it very affordable considering the materials.

One of the highlights of the day was taking the Cedar Lake trail (the first bicycle 'freeway' in the U.S.) back to Kenwood and making a stop at the 'hidden beach', which I just learned was once the only nude beach in the Twin Cities. The cherry on top? An iced coffee from Kenwood Cafe and a rest on the dock.

p.s. When I first moved to Minneapolis Rhiannon sent me some lovely recommendations. You can see some of her Twin Cities favourites here. I'm delighted to be among them.

Texture Tuesday.

2011-05-31T18:23:00.002-04:00

Did you ever make these lil' potholders with a loom or crochet hook? I don't still have any that I made myself but the bumble bee-coloured one was made by my mother.

Wiggledy piggledy.

2011-05-25T17:34:00.005-04:00

It seems to come around every year around this time. Spring starts to feel more like Summer and I long for my school holidays. I used to spend every Summer at my Grandma's house, helping my Aunt at the local school where she was Librarian. We would dust all the shelves, adjust the books just so and make bulletin boards to welcome the kids back in the Fall - I can still smell the Mister Sketch markers and Pine Sol. There were very few kids my age so I spent most of my free time with my grandma and her friends, going 'to town' to go to K-Mart and for a bite to eat at Bojangle's and hitting the library on Sundays to get enough books for the week. In those days Piggly Wiggly was the only grocery store nearby. When I saw these photographs from PW's in the 1940s and 50s I couldn't help but smile and get that Summer feeling all over again. The Piggly Wiggly of my childhood is still there and they'll take your bags out to the car - no tip expected. It's certainly not the most luxurious supermarket and doesn't always have everything you need, but The Pig makes up for what it lacks with good ol' Southern charm. And a country-style eat-in deli!

All photographs taken from the North Carolina State Archives' flickr page. You can also go inside an exact replica of the first ever 1916 Piggly Wiggly store at the Pink Palace Museum in Memphis, Tennessee. According to the museum, the origin of “Piggly Wiggly” isn’t clear. Sometimes Saunders said it just came to him; at other times he said he got the idea after seeing a group of piglets pushing and wiggling as they nursed. Whatever the origin, the name has always caught people’s attention.

Treasure Tuesday.

2011-05-24T17:01:00.004-04:00

Something old and something new.
Looking forward to July 1 almost as much as my holiday.

Bookmark | America at the crossroads.

2011-05-23T15:58:00.008-04:00

Arthur Rothstein, Camp Resident (Visalia, California, 1940)

America at the Crossroads: Great Photographs from the Thirties (edited by Jerome Prescott, Smithmark Publishers, 1995) allows me the opportunity to review and relish photographers like Lewis Hine, Dorothea Lange, and Walker Evans (fond memories of art history classes), while introducing me to those less familiar including Arthur Rothstein, Marion Post Wolcott, and George Alexander Grant. I'm very happy to make their acquaintance.

Arthur Rothstein, Custer State Park Scene (Custer State Park, South Dakota, 1936)

Arthur Rothstein, Camp Resident (Visalia, California, 1940)

George Alexander Grant, The Cooke City Entrance to Yellowstone National Park (Cooke City, Montana, 1939)

George Alexander Grant, Linda Hall at Mesa Verde (Mesa Verde National Monument, Colorado, 1929)

Marion Post Wolcott, A Meal on the Sidewalk at the Beach (Hialeah Park, Florida, 1939)

Marion Post Wolcott, At the Beach (Miami Beach, Florida, 1939)
*all photographs scanned from America at the Crossroads: Great Photographs from the Thirties, edited by Jerome Prescott (1995 Smithmark Publishers)

Around the house: School days.

2011-05-20T17:18:00.002-04:00

A small assortment I keep under the nook of my Nana's hutch, including my father's senior class portrait and my mother's pencil sharpener. My own school days seem so long gone now but my love for school supplies and academic ephemera continues to grow.

Bookmark | The darling buds of May.

2011-05-18T15:28:00.004-04:00

I am absolutely smitten with The Darling Buds of May, having stumbled upon the first four episodes at my local library. The closer it gets to my summer holiday the more Anglocentric I become! First broadcast in the U.K. between 1991 and 1993 and based on the 1950s-60s novels by H.E. Bates, The Darling Buds of May will plop you down in romantic and dreamy 1950s Kent from where you may never want to return.

Pop Larkin and his family were apparently inspired by a colourful character seen in a local shop in Kent by Bates and his family when on holiday. The man turned up to the shop with a huge wad of rubber-banded bank notes and proceeded to spoil his trailer load of children with Easter eggs and ice creams. The novels are also the source of the American movie The Mating Game (1959) starring Tony Randall and Debbie Reynolds.

I grabbed a few stills to entice you, but if you want you can also find the DVD's on Netflix. Some of my favourite scenes take place in a strawberry patch, which made me think back to my very own pick-your-own moment. The Larkin house is just the type of house I love to visit and would like to live in one day - they've lived there forever and the collections and layers of history are just so 'homey' to me. This series launched Catherine Zeta Jones' career and her character, Mariette, has got great style! I am so glad Spring is here so I can let my inner Mariette out!

Treasure Tuesday.

2011-05-17T13:14:00.003-04:00

These lil' crochet cozies are perfect for dressing up drinks of all sorts.
Or candles or jam jars or just about anything...

Friday in full bloom.

2011-05-13T17:07:00.007-04:00

Many of you who know me through flickr will remember this photograph I snapped of Sam Spenser's Bloom (2008) at The Wapping Project's Yellow since 1877 exhibition 15 November 2007 – 20 January 2008. Yellow since 1877 celebrated the champagne house Veuve Clicquot’s unique yellow colour (pantone reference 137c), which was registered in Reims 130 years ago, with a series of subtle interventions and performances in response to yellow (pantone 137c). It was a beautiful installation, and my favourite bit was Bloom.

If you like what you see you can vote for his portfolio in the online competition ArtTakesLondon. Let's help him reach 1000 votes!

Treasure Tuesday.

2011-05-10T11:54:00.003-04:00

A sliding ruler with a very wise message.

Minneapple | So, so Mary.

2011-05-08T13:05:00.002-04:00

Just a few blocks away from my apartment is a bit of television history. In its day the Mary Tyler Moore house was the world's 'most famous bachelorette pad'. On t.v. Mary Richards lived at 119 North Weatherly Avenue, Apartment D. In the 3-D world you can find the house they used for the exterior shots at 2104 Kenwood Parkway. I've professed my love for M.T.M. before, but I never thought I would be so close to where it all began. It's kind of fun to imagine her shopping at Kowalski's (before it became a posh supermarket), running around the greenways, and popping down to Burch pharmacy (before it closed down).

If you've seen the show you might, however, remember it looking more like this: *

'Apt D' was just behind the famous windows with the balcony, though in reality the show was not filmed here and M.T.M. came to town only to film the opening sequences. While white for M.T.M. in 1970 the house has since been painted brown. The trees have also grown and the chain-link fence has been removed.

Once the word was out about the house people of course wanted to see Mary! The owner at the time, a university professor, grew tired of the traffic and attention, so he tried to end his relationship with the show. M.T.M. was not anxious to change the story. To encourage the show to move on, the professor put up "Impeach Nixon" signs at the home in 1973. As a result, Mary Richards moved to an apartment in 1975 - the Corbusian-style Riverside Plaza, which is also on my list to visit.

If you want to learn more about the house and even take a peek inside present-day, there is lots to see. Built in 1891 for $15,000 the house with its expansion features eight bedrooms and seven bathrooms in 9,839 square feet. Estimated value $2.4 million!

Around the house: Picture window.

2011-05-04T14:27:00.007-04:00

Though my window sills are not deep enough for pillow nesting or curling up with a good book, they are the perfect place to display some of my favourite bits of nostalgia, including the insulators I nabbed from my cousin Tony's house, seashells from Topsail Beach, and old Vicks drops bottles given to me by Henry. There's a little story behind each one and a much more pleasant view to boot.

Treasure Tuesday.

2011-05-03T13:21:00.004-04:00

On Sunday I unpacked my Spring and Summer dresses in hopes that the weather will soon make up its mind. A bundle of crochet hangers make for such a pretty closet - the only shame is that they take up so much room!

Bookmark | The World of Gloria Vanderbilt.

2011-04-30T18:20:00.006-04:00

I first saw The World of Gloria Vanderbilt on display at my local bookshop, and after a quick flip through I was in love. I have always known G.V. for her glorious-fitting jeans, much like the ones below, which I wore until they just didn't fit right. I have a swan-handled umbrella as well as an old t-shirt, but you just don't come across the old G.V. stuff as often as you do other designers.

The World of Gloria Vanderbilt lays out its subject's life in photographs, ephemera and interviews. What a young stunner she was, and the stories she recounts of her upbringing reveal sadness and heartbreak, wealth and opportunity, romance and more romance.

Her fashion, art and design links are detailed and her interest in interior design, which I knew little about, was sparked when as a teenager she was allowed to decorate her own room and chose an Egyptian theme. Her decorating style is best described as eccentric, and she is a collector of anything and everything. Every surface of her homes and studios are filled with patterns and textures, from wallpaper of her own design to patchwork floors and quilt-covered doors. Many of her rooms remind me of Charleston Farmhouse with its personalised and pain-staked touches. I would be happy to call any of G.V.'s rooms 'home', and can only hope that one day they will be open for visitors to have a good nose around!

Minneapple | Find your prize.

2011-04-26T13:54:00.002-04:00

I've been making the rounds at thrift and antique stores here in my new 'hometown' - big surprise there right? And though I quickly discovered several favourites I'm always up for finding more. Thanks to my friend Brooke I now know that the number 6 bus will let you out right in front of Hunt & Gather, a self-described 'unique antique-style shop' exploding with trinkets of all sorts. Their slogan is 'find your prize' and it's very accurate! You can really have a good rummage in the space, you're sure to find something you can't live without. My favourite part was the basement, where all of these photos were snapped. Different 'booths' are set up, I assume by different sellers, and each one transports you magically from one theme and era to the next. It was so much fun to spend a good chunk of time down there, and I walked away with a denim clothespin bag filled with old clothespins. I'll be going back very soon to check out the ground floor wares!

Greatest hits.

2011-04-21T12:48:00.005-04:00

This week I've been bursting with excitement after booking my summer holiday and I'm looking (and daydreaming) forward to spending a good chunk of June in Europe! Heading first to London to make up for lost time with my sweety and then we're on to Bordeaux to attend the wedding of two very dear friends. My wish list of things to do and people to see while I'm there is filling up fast. I thing I've got London covered, but I would love to hear some of your tips for Bordeaux and the South of France.

I've been thinking so much about my time in the U.K. - God I miss it!
So how about a lil' trip down memory lane?

Scrap exchange no. 18: Nostalgia.

2011-04-20T17:01:00.007-04:00

Garageland issue eight, Nostalgia.
The dreamy cover artwork is Charming Ruins by Alex Michon (2009).

Want to see previous 'Scrap exchanges'?

Treasure Tuesday.

2011-04-19T17:53:00.003-04:00

A recent find from my favourite local thrift. The lil' inscription sealed the deal - how could I resist? I've had great luck in the land of second-hand recently so Treasure Tuesday is sure to become a regular occurrence around here.

Family wreath: Mysteries and daydreams.

2011-04-18T11:48:00.007-04:00

My Nana and her brother spent their childhood in a South Carolina orphanage following the death of their mother and younger sister. Little is known about her childhood aside from the horror stories she would tell about life growing up in the orphanage. As soon as she could leave the orphanage she did.

After Nana's house was cleaned out my cousin passed along to me a huge tote filled with photo albums and other ephemera, which I am slowly making my way through. These are just a few photographs from one of the albums, the cover of which has come loose. The thick black construction paper pages have sadly suffered water damage, leaving them wavy and fragile. Many of the photos have been removed over time and only one or two have names or places written on them. It is quite the mystery, but I am fairly certain these photographs were taken between my Nana leaving the orphanage and making North Carolina her permanent home. I am half-tempted to try removing the photos from their pages to see if any information can be discovered, but for the moment I am happy to daydream about Nana's adventures with friends and perhaps even her first love.

Pattern recognition | White wash.

2011-04-14T11:17:00.011-04:00

A recent work trip granted me four glorious days in New York, my first time visiting the city in - gasp - ten years! I spent the majority of my time at MoMA PS1, and when I wasn't deep into work I was either daydreaming about the rich history of the building or drooling over the peeling patina inside.

* The First Ward Primary School - later PS1 - was Long Island City's first school and the largest in all of Long Island when it was constructed in 1892-3.

My mind raced as I took in the original flooring, lighting, sinks... so many of the studious stylings had been retained. I'm so happy I got to go there when I did, because the last day of my visit the third floor, the last floor with colours instead of white walls, was getting white washed! Can you believe it...?

Minneapple | Calling all bookworms.

2011-04-12T11:28:00.012-04:00

A quick ride on the Express bus takes you to what might be the most romantic place in Saint Paul - the Central Public Library in Rice Park. Constructed began in 1914 and the doors opened in 1917, and the building has been listed on the National Register of Historic Places since 1975. A few hours with 350,000 books and other materials made me forget all about the snowy, gloomy winter lurking outside. The Central Minneapolis Library is pretty incredible architecturally - especially since it is a 'green' library - and the selection is more expansive, but the shiny new spaces just don't set my heart a-flutter like the old and pristine ones!

Designed by architect Electus Litchfield, the Central Library is Italian Renaissance revival in style and influenced by Litchfield's studies with the architects for the New York Public Library. Some features marking the style include the round arched windows, the Palladian style entrances, the large stonework, the balustrade surrounding the building, the rondel features near the arched windows, use of classical columns and pilasters, and the cornice capping the structure. The style was continued throughout the interior of the Library.

There are some great references to and small displays of F. Scott Fitzgerald books and memorabilia. He is a Saint Paul native. You could really spend a lot of time oohing and aahing over these.

The highlight for me is the magazine room on the third floor, also known as the Greenleaf Clark room after the Minnesota Supreme Court Justice. The room features an elegant, small alcove entered through three arches supported by groups of four columns. The central panel in the ceiling shows the old seal of the Library with the sword of St. Paul, symbolizing the city, supported by books and torches. The names of the greatest minds of old Europe, including Homer, Socrates, Descartes, Voltaire, Galileo and Da Vinci, are inscribed on the ceiling beams.

(1930)

On the second floor, the Nicholson Information Commons is one of the architectural highlights of the Library. Featuring large, arched windows, the room originally served as the main reading room. Angel friezes adorn each end of the room. The paintings on the ceiling beams depict publisher marks from the 1910s, along with the initials of the Saint Paul Public Library.

(The reading room, now the Nicholson Information Commons)

(The circulation room in 1955)

(1958)

As you can see, it is a truly magical place. I will definitely be going back to check out what has become of the Puppet Stage!

(The puppet stage - here in 1949- was designed by by local architect Magnus Jemne in 1949. The stage is made of bleached walnut from southern Minnesota, and features a carved head of Loki, the god of mischief in Norse mythology.)

The Saint Paul Public Library system also has a Bookmobile, and I couldn't resist sharing these sweet photographs with you! The first area Bookmobile dates back to 1917 and there have been six vehicles since then.

(The first Saint Paul Bookmobile, 1917)

(1917)

(The Bookmobile in 1980)

*Historic photographs and info taken from the SPPL website.

Something for Spring.

2011-04-10T15:45:00.003-04:00

Clear sidewalks mean I can wear the same shoes on the way to work that I wear at work. Truly invigorating! Over the long winter I added several new-to-me pairs to my collection, the first being these chocolatey Aigner booties. Perfect to wear with just about anything.

Homecoming.

2011-04-08T16:35:00.006-04:00

The other day I saw the sweetest dog enjoying a long overdue ride in das Auto, his head out the window to reveal ears flapping in the wind and a panting tongue. Living the life! A trip back home last month, filled with t-shirts and sock-less shoes, made me long for Spring more than ever and now that it's finally here, now that the snow has finally gone... I feel like I am living the life too. Welcome Spring, you are my dream come true.

Back and forth.

2011-03-31T13:04:00.002-04:00

A few snippets of what I've been up to since you last heard from me. Just like I fell for London I am slowly but surely starting to love the Twin Cities. The big thaw and a great job are helping that along quite nicely. I've been checking in on things and am pleased to see that many of you are visiting and re-visiting this blog, and I thank you so much for continuing to read my rambles. I've been a bit back-and-forth about keeping it up - we all go through these phases don't we? For the moment I've chosen to carry on and share some lovely bits I have discovered since my move to Minneapolis. You can discover the city right along with me. Keep checking back won't you? And if there's something you'd like to see more (or less) of around here, don't be bashful. I would be delighted to hear from you!

O happy day.

2011-02-14T13:42:00.003-05:00

Here's hoping Cupid finds you today.

Secret family recipes.

2011-02-09T13:47:00.005-05:00

It isn't Christmas in my family 'til you've snuck a Martha Washington from the refrigerator or the scent of my Nana's Scrabble has infiltrated the house. Having been away for two Christmases in a row I had plenty to make up for. I baked small batches of Scrabble and gifted them in assorted oatmeal and Pringles cans covered with wrapping papers, just like Nana used to do.

My mom and I started a new tradition based on the old. We handed out our very own Whitman's sampler: a box of (four or eight) candies we made using family recipes and home-grown pecans for Martha Washington's, Mexican Wedding Cookies, Mounds (also called Merry Christmas Candy) and Marshmallow Fudge. I'm tempted to whip up some Martha Washington's for Valentines Day, but the box with four varieties - named for my two grandmothers Fannie & Savannah - is an effort worthy just once a year. I hope all the lucky recipients saved their boxes for a refill.

Nice and cold.

2011-01-29T14:32:00.002-05:00

Coming up for a bit of air and slowly creeping back into life in the internets. I'm looking forward to catching up with everything and everyone. If you haven't heard back from me please know I've not forgotten.

So far, Minnesota nice is very real and has made me feel welcomed with open arms. Minnesota cold is also very real! A year from now perhaps even I will think that 25-30 degrees Fahrenheit is 'mild'. . .

Fresh fields.

2010-12-30T17:12:00.008-05:00

2010 brought with it new challenges, tearful good-byes and exciting surprises. A big part of me is ready to welcome a new year with open arms. Along with a heaping helping of collards and black-eyed peas, I'm ringing in 2011 with a major move to Minneapolis, where I've landed a new job. More about that later.. . For now I am neck-deep in all-things-moving - apartment hunting, packing, winter boot scouting and psyching myself up to be the new girl in town again.

I'm looking very forward to getting back to work, exploring an unknown-t0-me city and seeing where this next step takes me. Tips and advice are most welcome! Looks like 2011 is gonna be a great year. See you on the other side.

It's that time again.

2010-12-27T21:45:00.007-05:00

The freezing temperatures and blanket of snow arrived just in time to enjoy the fruits of our labour. We have pecan goodies a-plenty at the holidays (and all year long) thanks to three large trees at our family homestead. As a child I dreaded hearing 'it's that time again. .' , but this year - the first time I've been around for a harvest in many a moon - the visions of Chewies, cookies and candies kept my bucket full and my spirits high.

Happy Christmas.

2010-12-25T17:31:00.006-05:00

Happy Christmas to all, near and far.

From the vault: All wrapped up and under the tree.

2010-12-23T21:50:00.006-05:00

A few holiday wrappings from my collection.

You can see more (all-occasion) vintage wrappings here and here.

Wouldn't it be nice?

2010-12-19T22:05:00.002-05:00

I baked a batch of cookies last week and I was thinking how nice it would be to have tea and coffee with such lovely treats every day.

The candy store.

2010-12-15T12:08:00.007-05:00

For twenty-nine years the little town of Meadow, North Carolina, has created quite the buzz with their version of a 'Christmas Fantasy', the Meadow Lights. Each evening between Thanksgiving and New Years Eve festive spirits visit by the car load. This year was my first trip to see the Lights. I was particularly impressed by the life-size Last Supper and Betsy Ross working on her flag, both of which are staged under awnings using mannequins and then spot-lit. The more traditional light displays go on for acres, you can even ride a train through the site to see everything a bit more closely. It's not so easy to capture all the lights on camera, so I hope you can make the trip to Meadow or somewhere similar closer to home. My favourite were the bucking broncos!

When you can't stand the cold anymore, you've had a go on the indoor carousel and been to see Santa, it's time to hit the Candy Store. The Candy Store is every sweet tooth's fantasy, with more than 300 different types of candy overflowing old-timey baskets and buckets. Candy cigarettes, gummi bears, coconut flags, chocolate drops - you name it they've got it. I'm a big peanut butter fan, so I was happy to see so many different peanut butter candies: sticks, crunches, pillows, bars.. . In fact, it seemed that every flavour imaginable was there in pole, stick, pillow and bar form.

I'm also very fond of peppermint puffs and sticks so was happy to see Piedmont candies alongside many other local and made-in-the-South candies. With flavours like 'Horehound' and 'Sassafrass' how can you resist?

Thinking about all the sugary confections now, I don't know how I was able to walk away with so little! Gumdrops for our gumdrop tree, a hot apple cider to keep me warm and a Blenheim ginger ale for the road. And of course, visions of sugarplums dancing in my head.

Treasure chest: All dolled up.

2010-12-11T16:27:00.000-05:00

In my dreams I step out in head-to-toe Western wear. In my reality I'm slowly building a collection to wear and admire. I recently came across seven bow ties in a rainbow of colours and decorations, worthy of inclusion in How the West Was Worn. These Western bow ties, also known as a 'Colonel ties' and 'ribbon ties', were most likely worn by a square dancer. With one for every day of the week, I'm looking forward to clipping them into my favourite blouses - special occasion or not.

Branded: Caractère.

2010-12-08T20:14:00.002-05:00

I can never have too many pouches or zippered vessels it seems. Between the ones I make and the ones I pick up in charity shops, I would be afraid to count them! I saw this 'Caractère' pouch in a Scope shop just days before I left London. Mind you I was faced with mounds of clothing and junk to get rid of, and just as much to cram into my suitcases. But I couldn't leave it behind. The heavy brown canvas and woven 'luggage' stripe lured me right in. Months went by and I thought, hmm, what or who is this 'Caractère? I was delighted by what I found.

Caractère - I learned after much searching - is a men's fragrance launched by Daniel Hechter in 1989. Presented in a bottle designed by Pierre Dinand, who has created more than 500 perfume bottles, Caractère is described as a 'dry woods fragrance for men - smooth, warm, accomplished and distinctive', with top notes of artemisia, bergamot and lemon; heart notes of Jasmin, Carnation and basil; and base notes of oak moss, leather and cedar wood. I have my doubts the scent of Caractère (now discontinued) could distract me from the beautiful colour blocks and stripes of its exterior.

Legend has it that Mr Hechter's son, the handsome Caractère, used to hang out with a crowd of equally good-looking guys - Joint, Omar Sharif, Lord Molyneux, Free Life, Marbert Gentleman, etc. Sweet Jane used to tell them: 'All you boys are real babe magnets, so smooth and so cool when you dance to that fine, fine music! But I've got to tell you, guys, Caractère's got the edge, Caractère's got smoothness squared, Caractère's got coolness cubed, Caractère can really make the cutecakes crumble!' It's all right there in the packaging, wouldn't you agree?

A trip to Grannies.

2010-12-05T09:21:00.003-05:00

A trip home to Durham isn't complete without stopping by Everything But Grannies Panties, a thrift-antique-junk-lil' bit of everything (as the name suggests) shop on Guess Road. I can't remember when Grannies opened up, it's just always been there. A shop in a house, much like a Grandma's house. And who didn't get in trouble for rambling at Grandma's house?

Each time I visit it seems there are more plates, and more iron beds in the yard. The brown and mustard plaid plate gets me every time. On this particular visit Grannies had been closed for several days in preparation for the Christmas season, when the entire house gets a much-needed clear-out and everything changes over to Christmas. I wasn't quite ready for all the red and green so headed up to my favourite room, the clothes. It is the most beautiful room in the house to me, with its low ceiling and natural woodwork. You're sure to find a vintage treat you can't live without, for anywhere from 2 to 20 dollars.

Afterwards I headed outside to the back yard, which looks a lot like a yard sale. You can have a good rummage and a few smiles, spotting everything from salt and pepper shakers to walkers and porta-potties! If you've got any energy left you can hit 'Grannies Island', an area off the side of the house where you can fill up a grocery bag for 2 bucks. Well worth a look if you like to dig.

The highlight for me this time around, though, were the old outhouses out back. They've been transplanted from nearby locations and feature a lil' sign telling you their estimated date and where they were found. And there are more old iron and brass beds back there, sigh.. . One thing's for sure, Grannies keeps me comin' back for more.

A little reminder.. .

2010-12-03T10:01:00.003-05:00

.. . that today is the last day of Cyber week in the Growin' Up shop. 20% off when you enter the code keepmewarm at check-out, until midnite tonite e.s.t. Happy Friday!

Where is she now?

2010-11-30T21:56:00.002-05:00

The thrift gods were watching over me during a recent trip to Salvation Army when I spotted this little cotton-canvas tote for 99 cents.

I'm not sure what I like most about it. The raw edges and perma-creases. The stripes. The colours that seem to go with everything I wear nowadays. Lying flat and folded it forms a perfect crayon-like point. Standing tall it liberates a lunch bag-sized vessel I can fill with all my daily essentials.

Of course I also like that it was made by a lady named Marion Webster 'especially for me'. I wonder who she made the bag for, and when. I admire her crisp edges, fraying ends and jaggedy stitches. And boy was she good at matching up stripes. Where is MW now?

Cut and paste.

2010-11-28T20:17:00.006-05:00

Just in time for Cyber Monday I've released several pouches and larger bags into my too-long-empty Etsy shop. This is your chance to stock up on Growin' Up goods at 20% off - simply enter the code keepmewarm at check-out. I'll be running the sale through this Friday 3 December, it'll be a Cyber Week. I'm pleased to offer complimentary gift wrap for you, too, so what are you waiting for. . .?

Hey gobble-gobble.

2010-11-25T08:52:00.001-05:00

I'm very thankful to be celebrating my first Stateside Thanksgiving in three years. I'll be making up for lost time with family and of course, food - two family meals plus a couple stop-n-chats. A happy day for you and yours.

Pattern recognition.

2010-11-22T20:13:00.003-05:00

Lately I find myself drawn to objects in a bounty of patterns and textures. A couple recent finds to set my heart a-flutterin':

Quilted denim and golden chains are a winning combination in my book - I found this bag at a near-by antique mall for a mere $3!

A local lady named Maude covers bottle caps with crocheted yarn scraps to make trivets (and many other objects) rich in colours and stories. I'm looking forward to an upcoming visit to see more of her handicrafts - she says her house is 'covered with the stuff'! Watch this space. . .

Home of the London umbrella.

2010-11-04T16:37:00.006-04:00

When it's raining cats and dogs like today, I think of James Smith & Sons Umbrellas, a beautiful Victorian shop in New Oxford Street. They've been a family business for more than 175 years. The First James Smith started their tradition of umbrella making in 1830 when he opened a small shop in Fouberts Place, off Regent Street. He made the umbrellas at the back of the shop and customers were served at the front.

That tradition is still maintained in the New Oxford Street premises. Their workshops have been situated in the basement and it is there that they still make umbrellas and walking sticks. The shop itself is a perfect example of Victorian shop front design and has remained virtually unaltered for 140 years. Inside it is a unique experience - most of the fittings were designed and made by a fitter employed by Mr Smith.

I was a bit too shy to get photos of the dreamy interior, but you can see a few photos on their website. Check out the seatsticks, walking sticks and canes while you're there!

Halloween 1960.

2010-10-31T21:14:00.006-04:00

Inscription on the back reads 'Can you guess who this is?'
*A bit of trivia for you
*And another smile-worthy photo

Branded: Barker shoes.

2010-10-28T09:00:00.004-04:00

On one of my many stops in Absolute Vintage I found the most perfect-to-me pair of shoes: chocolaty brown leather, manageable heel height and arch, equestrian detailing, rounded toes, and on top of all that - my feet even looked almost petite in them! Needless to say it was straight to the till for me, and I wore them everywhere - I of course wore them out, and after a few repairs deemed them unrepairable, placing them in my r.i.p. pile at the bottom of my wardrobe. I never knew the maker or date of production.

(June and August 2009, the original pair)

Fast forward several months to one of my late-nite 'vintage 7' searches on ebay. I came across another pair of shoes which I found irresistible. I couldn't quite put my finger on just why. After several days of 'watching' and waiting - and after a very generous seller agreed to lowering her reserve price - they were mine. I giddily opened the parcel to discover just why I'd fallen for the shoes: they were exactly the same as the r.i.p. pair only in much better condition and in a narrower fit - which only made them that bit more perfect! It was the most blissful deja vu, and on these insoles I could actually read the label: Barker of England. I was excited to do a bit of research about the brand, whose shoes I'd seen in many City shop windows.

The foundation stone of the Barker brand was laid in a humble cottage in the heart of England's shoe manufacturing industry in 1880, by enterprising Northamptonshire boot maker Arthur Barker. During the interwar years, Arthur's three sons joined the family business, taking the brand into new markets and territories. In 1947, a new factory was built in Earls Barton to expand production, including the production of women's shoe collections. Barker are one of twelve shoemakers in the region, alongside Church's, Grenson and Loake.

A newer factory and offices were built in 1986 in the centre of Earls Barton village. The new site is just a few hundred yards away from the original factory of 1880. And although modern methods of production have been introduced over the years, the same skills, traditions and craftsmanship are very much evident today. Albert Barker demonstrated that an insistence on traditional standard need not to be old-fashioned. His policies of top quality materials, craftsmanship and distinctive classic design are still carefully maintained today, with Barker craftspeople producing some 200,000 pairs of hand lasted sewn shoes each year. Recent collaborations include Jeffrey Campbell and Herring.

I am happy to report that I received a lovely reply from the Barker archives: The shoes are called 'Ripon' and were last produced in 1988. At that time there was also a matching handbag to go with the style - let the hunt begin! *Barker history adapted from the company website.

Family wreath: Golden girls.

2010-10-26T15:54:00.001-04:00

My mother's side of the family like to stay in one place - Eastern North Carolina. A few have left but most see no need to go anywhere else. Our ancestors came from Germany and liked the area so much they decided to make it their home. A local scholar has been preparing a book on the history of the families which includes some 6,000 people. At a recent family reunion he described a 'family wreath' which interconnects all the larger families in the area - it was not out of the ordinary to marry your third or fourth cousin when pickin's were slim! I am really looking forward to the book's release to read more about the area and see all the fascinating stories brought together in one place.

Being back home for several months now I've learned so many things I never knew as a child spending summers at Grandma's house. The same two-story farmhouse has been in our family for generations (you can see a bit of the house and its surroundings in some of these photographs), and it seems everyone in the little community has their own special memories associated with it. At one time three generations lived under one roof and people also rented out rooms upstairs - the house was brimming with non-stop activity. On Sunday evenings the house was a true gathering spot and you might even catch a short film at the old tent shows that passed through or slip on your roller-skates for a trip to the local store. Countless people were born or died in the house and when you stop to think about it all, it's pretty incredible. It is a very different place today but I'm so grateful to be surrounded by such a rich history. I've got some beautiful old tin-types to scan in for you but for now here are a few pictures of my more immediate relatives: my mother, grandmother and great-grandmothers, among others.

Family wreath: Nana and Pop.

2010-10-24T18:00:00.007-04:00

Since I got back home I've found longer branches on my family tree . On my father's side, a distant relative contacted me after seeing Tommy Jr's photographs. Sometimes I start to wonder if I have a bit too much of myself out on the internet, but this time I was so happy to know someone was looking! It turns out that some of my earliest known ancestors came to Virginia from Haiti via France and also from Cuba, something we never knew until now. I've been sopping up all the old stories and documents that have been generously shared with me, and I'm looking forward to learning more as time goes by.
I wanted to share these photos that were found when my Nana's house was cleared out. These are my father's parents, Walter Eugene and Savannah - Pop and Nana to me. To see them so young and happy, probably about my age or a little older, puts a smile on my face every time.

Royal mail.

2010-10-18T21:13:00.001-04:00

A short walk to our little post office can be the highlight of a quiet day. Inside a small parcel from my friend Sophie I unwrapped a bottle of 'Tobacco Flower'- a fragrance released by the Body Shop in 2000 - still in its original box! Did you ever have it? A whiff of this now sadly discontinued fragrance takes me back to my year abroad in Germany, now ten years past (!). When my mom and two of her girlfriends came to visit they bought me a bottle of this while we were waiting at the airport for their departure. I kept it for a long while after that but have since lost it.

When I am smack-dab in the middle of city living or deep in the darkness of Winter, the scent of tobacco tops will remind me of summers in the countryside. I am so happy you found this Sophie! Next time I'm in London I hope we can hit some of those Southend-on-Sea charity shops.

The loop road.

2010-10-12T21:18:00.008-04:00

And just like that, Summer's gone. The tobacco fields, once lush and leafy, are now lined with eerie naked stalks. Despite the lingering heat wave, you can still feel the crispy punch in the air. My brother and I have been taking Golden Hour walks to round out our days and begin quiet country evenings. A walk along the 'loop road' or down to the river might take us to a tobacco barn which also doubles as a deer antler shrine. If we turn our heads we might just see a young man out on a horse and cart, completely blissed out. Here's to more exploring, and lots of hot chocolates to come.

Got it honest.

2010-10-10T19:37:00.008-04:00

Tongue and groove, dinner bells, shotgun houses, secret hiding places and more than twenty wild (but very welcome) cats. A late summer's day visit to relatives proved I got it honest - my love for all things old that is. I walked away with an armful of glass telephone insulators and the grin of a Cheshire cat.

A little TLC goes a long way.

2010-10-06T12:09:00.005-04:00

When I find a pair of shoes I love, I tend to wear them out. We're talking holes through the soles held up with duck tape! And when they are already old and worn, this happens even faster. I bought these lovely Nubuck brogues at Absolute Vintage three years ago when I first moved back to London and at the time, they were the most expensive shoes I'd ever bought. I have not been able to date them and cannot read the label inside but they are definitely old. The club heel and the leather trim are the icing on the perfect colour and shape.

You can see just how much I've loved them above, wearing them in the rain (and once even in the snow -eek!) and wearing them right out. I've had to toss my fair share of vintage shoes but can't bear to part with these. So I decided to treat them to a little TLC with new leather soles. I can't wait to wear them again with wooly tights and nobbly socks. But first I want to give the uppers a bit of TLC, and I wondered if any of you have tips for conditioning and preserving Nubuck? I promise to weatherproof them!

Branded: A is for. . .

2010-09-27T23:23:00.005-04:00

(At the Mill Pond with my favourite Aigner)

I wore a lot of hand-me-downs growing up and it was like Christmas morning when my cousins dropped by Grandma's house with a bag of clothes they'd outgrown. I distinctly remember a lilac crewneck sweater with my cousin's initials embroidered at the chest: KLG. In recent days I happily pick up anything with initials or embellished with a monogram - it's that extra layer of personality to feed my daydreams of how an item made it from there to here. There's one initial that sets my heart a-flutter more than any other though, and it's that magical horseshoe 'A' symbolizing all things Etienne Aigner.

Etienne Aigner was born in Ersevjivan, Hungary, in 1904 and at age 20 came to Paris to pursue bookbinding. After apprenticeships in Paris with Dior and Balenciaga, Aigner made his way to New York in 1949 and began making belts out of his apartment. He produced his designs in a single shade of leather, a burgundy often referred to as 'oxblood red' or 'antic red'. By the time he opened his first showroom in 1959 he had added scarves, gloves and handbags. Practically every item in the collection was marked by the initial “A” - he fashioned the logo after his own monogram, an 'A' shaped into a horseshoe.

Etienne Aigner describes itself as 'a German brand with Italian soul, melding German precision with Tuscan tradition, with motives and monogram especially, deriving from equestrian themes as inspiration'.

Another Aigner signature was his use of very unusual materials for the time. Among the first designers to pair linen, straw and fisherman’s net with leather, he also drew inspiration from and was fascinated with all forms of hardware. Aigner constantly sought out and acquired on his frequent flea market expeditions in the US and abroad a wide assortment of unusual and other one-of-a-kind decorative hardware items that he translated into finishing touches for handbags and shoes.

Aigner died in 2000 but the label lives on through everything from bags to shoes, scarves to jewellery. For me, his “it” bags of the 50’s, 60’s and 70’s (even into the 80's) stand timeless and classic against the more recent designs. Navy, oxblood, tan and grey, oh my - to find an Aigner satchel, trench, pair of shoes or (most recently) gloves makes my day at the thrifts.

My favourite Aigner find is actually a gift. The handbag I'm carrying above was bought by my friend Danita for $1.00 at an estate sale. After she got a bit of use out of it (and after I swooned over it repeatedly) she gave it to me!

So. . .do you have a cherished Aigner in your wardrobe or hanging on your arm?

Bio adapted from the Etienne Aigner company website Photos collected from Etsy and ebay

The golden hour.

2010-09-21T09:00:00.002-04:00

The golden hour has become my favourite time of day, anything and everything seems possible when the world is covered with a dewy glow. A couple Sundays ago my mom and I headed over to a nearby farm at golden hour to take some pictures of a polka-dotted cotton patch - and it's a good thing we did, because the patch was harvested the very next day! When I was about eight years old I was really into classic country and Alabama's 'High Cotton' was one of my top tunes. Perhaps a video reenactment is in order?

There are still a few fields in bloom around so you just might see me pickin' cotton again soon!

From the vault: Vintage wrapping papers (part two).

2010-09-17T04:48:00.001-04:00

'Save the paper!' is a popular saying in my family at Christmastime and birthdays. And boy am I glad somebody saved these papers - some for very specific and adorable occasions, others with the tape and folds still in place. One thing's for sure, they don't make 'em like they used to!

From the vault: Vintage wrapping papers.

2010-09-15T14:16:00.006-04:00

Who doesn't like to receive a present neatly wrapped and tied up with a bow? I love to give presents, no matter how big or small. More than seeking out that special somethin' I am most excited to wrap it up! Lately I've taken to designing and making my own wrapping papers as I am particularly fond of brown Kraft paper. Last Winter I tied printed paper with Coronation ribbon and tags for Growin' Up goods.

Other times I use pre-made papers which I've collected from thrift stores or inherited from my grandmothers. I can't bear to part with the originals (!) except for very special moments, so instead I print the scans out onto plain paper, pair with vintage trims and ribbons and voila! A smile every time. I wanted to share some favourites with you here, and I've already selected a few more for an upcoming post. The first one would be especially sweet to wrap up all of Anja 's Cat Week treats, and the 'denim barnyard' is one of my all-time faves. Enjoy!

Bottom of the ninth.

2010-09-14T09:25:00.001-04:00

A favourite dress that's ushered in many special occasions.

Scrap exchange no. 17: How the west was worn.

2010-09-12T13:36:00.005-04:00

I came across these scans last nite in my photo files, and after a lil' dig through my blog archive, I realised I never posted these lovely scans from How the West Was Worn for you. The tobacco trucks ride by here each day filled to the brim and the cotton boils are opening up to produce white speckled fields, just two of the budding signs that Fall is on its way. I would be tickled pink to incorporate any one of these beauties into my Autumn rotation, wouldn't you?

Trudy Hall rodeo print rayon dress, 1940s

Lace-up boots, jodphurs, silk sash, Stetson hat and lucky number 13, which once belonged to cowgirl Bonnie Gray, c. 1920-30

Show jacket from 101 Ranch Real Wild West Show, c. 1914

Cowgirl Dell Jones in her typical fringed split skirt with finely fashioned Olathe boots, cotton blouse and Stetson hat

Fringed leather outfit that once belonged to Caroline Lockhart, c. 1930-40

1940s square dancers

1950s wool outfit by Fay Ward

Chimayo (New Mexico) fabric coats, c. 1920s

Scans from How the West was Worn: A Complete History of Western Wear, 2001 Holly-George Warren and Michele Freedman Published by Harry N. Abrahms, Inc.

Scrap exchange no. 16: In/sight.

2010-09-07T13:39:00.008-04:00

Meissa Gaye, Untitled (1941)

Seydou Keita, Untitled (1956-57)

Seydou Keita, Untitled (1958)

Seydou Keita, Untitled (1958) Seydou Keita, Untitled (1952-55)

Malick Sidibe, Untitled (April 1970)

Samuel Fosso, Untitled (ca. 1977)

Seydou Keita, Untitled (1952-55)

All photographs from In/sight: African Photographers, 1940 to the Present Guggenheim Museum, 24 May - 29 September 1996 Guggenheim Museum Publications

Just passing through.

2010-08-30T09:30:00.003-04:00

Hitting up antique malls and old stand-by's. Pinching pennies and daydreaming. Clearing out the attic and hearing all the old stories again . . . Just a few of the ways I've been passing the time!

Scenic by-way.

2010-08-28T13:07:00.004-04:00

A drive around eastern North Carolina fills my heart with love for tobacco barns, front porches and visions of a simpler time. And though I've started to get ancy about what comes next (and when, when?!), a look around puts me right at ease - if only for that moment. Sticky handfuls of tobacco flowers are the icing on the cake.

Good eats: Makin' up for lost time.

2010-08-27T10:46:00.008-04:00

Since I got home one thing I've been doing a lot of is eating. It's a big part of life down South and comfort food is definitely one of the things I always missed while I was away - country food just wasn't on the menu in London. I've been sampling lots of cakes, country restaurants and most beloved of all, nothing beats my Mama's cookin'.

Long distance.

2010-08-22T10:43:00.003-04:00

It feels a very long way from this

to this

Some peeks into what I've been up to in my next post.

Getaway! - Hastings.

2010-07-25T22:34:00.005-04:00

What better way to bid farewell (for now, anyway) to Britain than with a day-trip to Hastings, a seaside town which Katie assured me held the best and worst of Britain. Boy was she right! I wanted to share the best bits with you. Hastings is everything I wanted Brighton to be, and more.

Two hours out of London and I felt immediately relaxed, forgetting all about my impending departure and my suitcases still waiting to be sealed. Summer had finally arrived and I pulled out my treasured tap shorts just for the occasion. We started out in the 'New Town' and walked into the once 'no-mans land' of The America Ground. It was a bit weird to see all the American flags around. Walking along the beach towards Bexhill we took in all the quirky shop fronts, a weather kiosk (!), visitors' centre inside an old-timey store and enough faded tiles and mosaics to keep you dreaming of days gone by. I adore old shops with tiled alcoves leading up to the door and large display windows along each side - if I ever have a shop it will be one of those. And Hastings is full of them. The pedestrian underpass along the beach is covered with bits of old bottles in all colours and variations. You could stay under there forever, with endless shade and a picture-perfect view of the sea.

The Old Town is brimming with the rich history Hastings is known for. The tall, narrow 'net shops', said to be unique to Hastings, have been used as net storage by fishermen for many decades, and 45 remain today. Nestled among them is the Fishermen's Museum in an old church dark and cosy and chock full of memorabilia from photos to Winkle suits. There's even a funicular railway, the East Hill Lift, which takes you up to the top of the cliff to Hastings Country Park.

Afterwards we went for a wander in the Old Town and happened upon many antique shops, old timber-framed houses and window critters. It was fun just to look and not buy - and besides, there was simply no more room in my suitcases.

And what would a visit to the seaside be without fish and chips and traditional British sweets, a dip in the sea and a cuddle at sunset!

Perfect, indeed.

2010-07-17T18:54:00.004-04:00

The week before I left, South London was tuggin' on my heartstrings like never before. I had fallen. . . hard. When I'd had enough of packing, I went on 'holiday' again. I spent one of many perfect afternoons exploring the Horniman Museum and its 16 acres of gardens, which opened in Forest Hill in 1901.

The darkened Natural History Gallery was my favourite bit, with hundreds of stuffed animals, many now extinct, enveloped in the most beautiful nomenclature graphics and raised lettering. If only more museums would keep their traditional, elegant methods of display. The invigilator told us that many of the cases are very fragile and when opened emit toxic fumes! The Museum plans to revise the display cases as much of the information is now out of date, but we've been reassured the graphics will not change.

After taking in such inspiring views what could be better than a picnic lunch in the ornamental gardens, a nature walk and pause at the 1912 bandstand, and to top it all off lemonade by the Victorian conservatory? A perfect afternoon, indeed.

Falling for London: Library of my dreams!

2010-07-14T19:20:00.009-04:00

One of the silver linings of being out of work is going on 'holiday' in your very own city - you have time to go places with random or short opening hours. Phoebe told me about The Rotherhithe Picture Research Library when I first came to London and said I would just love it, and I let out more than a few sighs of delight upon entering the former Grice's Granary (1795). Nestled under old ship timbers is a slice of pure heaven: thousands of over-sized scrapbooks on every subject you can imagine, from mens' 17th-century underwear to Rotherhithe to architecture, graphics and shoes (!), to name but a few.

Since the 1970s the Library has been clipping pictures from newspapers, magazines, cereal boxes, postcards, you name it. You can snuggle up with the book of your choosing and a cup of tea (I know, pretty crazy for a library!) at one of the weathered work tables for as long as you like. The staff are super-friendly and have the kind of job I've been dreaming about - surrounded by history, nostalgia and ephemera. I tried my best to capture the magical space but to see the true twinkle make a visit if you can!

The Picture Research Library sits within Sands Films, most well-known for their production of Little Dorritt. They have an extensive costume collection on site with costume hire and costume workshops, and since the 1970s have provided or made costumes for films like Marie Antoinette, Bright Star, North & South, The Duchess and many more you can read about on their website. When I'm next in London I hope to catch their Tuesday nite 'Cinema Club', with rarely seen and silent films screened in one of London's smallest cinemas. Oh, and a tour of the costumes and shoes! And afterwards a drink at the Mayflower just opposite.

Getaway! - Back to Wales.

2010-07-12T22:13:00.006-04:00

My childhood kitchen was filled with strawberries - my mom collected everything from napkin rings to spoon rests. What can I say, they are also my favourite berry, with Strawberry Shortcake adorning my bed sheets and birthday cakes. Imagine my delight when my first-ever (!) camping trip was at a farm in Wales which had a 'Pick-Your-Own'. Not only that, the farm was situated just by the beach! A windy walk along the Worm's Head, fish and chips at sunset and waking up outdoors. I will remember Nicholaston fondly for a long time to come.

Falling for London: Plants, people, possibilities.

2010-07-11T07:31:00.003-04:00

I spent my last few weeks in London checking out some of the places I'd always wanted to see but hadn't. I knew it wasn't possible to tick all the boxes but there were a few spots I'd had on my list for a while. On a sunny Saturday I headed to Richmond to explore the 300 acres that is the Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew. Just over 250 years old, Kew Gardens is a paradise for green thumbs and novices alike. I can't believe I lived in London nearly three years and hadn't visited before!

The most scenic route there is to walk from Richmond station. I recently finished reading Virginia Woolf's biography by her nephew Quentin Bell, and (as I've become really into her and her writings) was excited to see Richmond as she spent so much time there. I couldn't go to Richmond without stopping by her house in Paradise Road and then headed to the Green before wandering along the Thames Path to the Gardens. If only I could get inside!

The walk to Kew is filled with utopian views, lush landscapes and beautiful bridges. And lots of benches for packed lunches and lemonades.

Once at the Garden gates we picked up a map which advised allowing 4-5 hours to explore everything. I think it will take me two or three trips to see everything though! A future trip is in the works to check out Kew Palace, the Kew library and archives and the Economic Botany Collection. I didn't even find out about the Marianne North Gallery until the next day, but it sounds like it's worth a dedicated visit to see more than 800 botanical drawings hung floor-to-ceiling in what looks like the dreamiest space in all of Kew.

A real highlight were the glass houses: the Palm House, which was in 1844-48 the first large-scale structural use of wrought iron, and the Temperate house, the world's largest surviving Victorian glasshouse. The cherry on top is the aquarium underneath the Palm House.

Another highlight was the 59-foot-high Treetop Walk. It was funn to be up so high but at moments I felt everything wobble under my feet, eek! It's worth the climb though.

I had such a magical day at Kew, I'm sure to go back there when I'm next in London. I hear Winter there is just lovely! *p.s. thank you very much for all the nice comments on my last few posts. When I am more settled (wherever that my be!) I hope to take a bit more time for this wee blog.

No sleep 'til. . .

2010-06-23T06:32:00.004-04:00

A peek into the past couple weeks. Between sifting and sorting and saying 'so long' I've consumed quite a bit of cake (home-made and bakery-bought), taken lots of side-streets and started to look at the city I've called home nearly three years in a whole new light.

Getaway! - Falmouth part 2: The cream is the crown.

2010-06-16T09:55:00.006-04:00

Just as much fun as checking out the sights is checking out the eats, right? Fish and chips, pasties, freshly caught mussels, Cornish cream tea, scones. . .! I had to try it all. We went to a lovely cafe - the Cavendish Coffee House - where they de-mystified the Cornwall vs. Devon scone challenge. In Devon you have your scone jam first, cream on top. In Cornwall, as they say, 'the cream is the crown' sitting atop the jam. Though heavenly either way, my vote is for Cornwall!

I've still not got my head around all the British celebrity chefs, but was told not-to-miss Rick Stein's fish and chips. It was so delicious we went two nites in a row!

A ferry ride to St Mawes was just what we needed for a happy Sunday, complete with a demonstration of 1830s diving gear and collecting shells by the sea.

On the way back to London we stopped by the Eden Project, which I must admit I didn't know very much about. It was a bit too kid-oriented for me but I fell in love with the Biodomes. I left wishing the views from the Mediterranean Dome were that of my living room. The station at St Austell is just heart-breaking, I hope they don't rip out this little bit of nostalgia anytime soon.

For now it's farewell Cornwall. I hope to make it back very soon.

Getaway! - Falmouth part 1: Pennycomequick.

2010-06-15T04:40:00.010-04:00

I've always imagined Devon and Cornwall as quintessential England, daydreams enhanced by the romantic imagery presented by Tim Walker. I will - after a recent getaway - always remember Cornwall as Falmouth, a quiet town by the river Fal with its beautiful harbour just outside my bedroom window. Falmouth, founded in 1661, was originally called Peny-cwm-cuic, which became 'Pennycomequick'.

The historic Old High Street will set your heart a-flutter with an abundance of charity and antique shops. My favourites were Old Town Hall Antiques and High Street Bazaar, just footsteps away from each other. I love walking into a shop and feeling like I'm at Grandma's attic. The prices were so reasonable - if only I could take everything with me!

Once through the High Street and past the Maritime Museum you can cut across to the beaches - we walked through Gyllyngvase Beach over to Swanpool Beach, where there are lots of crazy ice cream flavour-combos to be had! And with names like Shy Coconut and French Kiss, you can't resist.

Growing up in North Carolina and going to Carolina beaches I am used to seeing lots of sand surrounded by quite a monochromatic colour palette with all the Sea Oats. I was most amazed by the landscape of the Cornwall beaches, so very green and lush with cliffs, rocks and pebbles. It was like having the country and the beach all as one, and reminded me of a family vacation long ago to Cape Cod. The perfect sunny weather and the beach-y town feel made for the perfect opportunity to wear a pair of home-made shorts I found at Design Archives a few years back.

Beach cemeteries are always a surreal sight to come across, so imagine our delight when we took a detour coming back from the beach, and happened upon these flowery, light-filled grounds.

A perfect ending to a perfect day.

Scrap Exchange no. 15: Faulkner's Mississippi.

2010-06-08T17:22:00.008-04:00

So that decision I was making. . .? I made it! At 8 pm last nite. And that decision means I have to leave London, in a little less than one month's time. It's not what I want but it's what has to be, as I've not had any luck finding any thing else (job, visa) to help keep me here. And eight months is a long enough limbo. Thinking forward to 'home', I think of rural North Carolina and all the things I love about it. And although these photographs by William Eggleston are of William Faulkner's mythic Yoknapatawpha County, Mississippi, not NC, they come pretty close to feeling like home. Though today I am teary-eyed and scared to bits of what happens next, at the top of my 'to-do' list is to max out my last few weeks in London. Any recommendations?

Scans from Faulkner’s Mississippi

Text by Willie Morris Photographs by William Eggleston Published by Oxmoor House, Inc., 1990

Getaway! - Gateway to Wales.

2010-06-07T14:26:00.002-04:00

When life gets you down, get away! Over the past several months I've been lucky enough to spend two long weekends in Wales - Devauden, Chepstow and Hay-on-Wye to be more exact. By train, by car, by bus and by foot the landscape is breath-taking at every turn. Old ruins, sheep and lambs, Blue Bells, Goats Willow, Dandelions . . . and when we were inside it was all about the food! Delicious home-cookin', ice creams, and country pubs like The Raglan Arms. It's a real treat to forget all about the City hustle and soak up the fresh air. And be in a real house!

Goats Willow on a country walk. . . . . . And in the foyer of the Nelson Museum, Monmouth

Hay-on-Wye is famous for its Festival and endless book shops, but they've also got some great antique shops like 'Going For A Song'. Lots of nice cafes too.

(Tintern Abbey and a peek at my cape!)

Can't wait to get back there!

Decisions, decisions.

2010-06-04T18:17:00.004-04:00

When I was a little girl my Uncle Gene used to take us to the 'candy store' on a Sunday - it was really a mini mart which had a whole isle devoted to candies and cookies. He would give us each one dollar to spend on whatever we wanted. My two brothers would grab a few candy bars and be done with it. I, on the other hand, seemed to take longer each time, carefully selecting and calculating to make the most of my one-hundred pennies. Would it be Mary Janes or Caramel Creams, Peppermint Patties or Peanut Butter Cups. . .? The five cent candies in big jars kept me pacing until the little brown paper bag had been filled.

Tho my purse-strings have loosened up a bit, my decision-making skills haven't moved on very much from those early days. Pacing, fretting, worrying. . . trying to avoid it altogether. Do you make decisions quickly, do you go with your gut instinct or make a list of pros and cons. I've tried them all but I'm still stuck.

Q & A.

2010-06-02T06:21:00.005-04:00

I recently did an interview with the lovely Elise over at Broom People and it's up today. You can read all about my sweet tooth, among other things. . . Thanks so much to Elise for inviting me!

Head in the clouds.

2010-05-31T14:42:00.002-04:00

Spring where o' where have you gone?

Falling for London: Light show.

2010-05-27T15:28:00.006-04:00

Light and shadow, fish and chips, tulips and turpentine, all came together in Morning Lane E9 to make a very magical evening back in March. A nite I won't soon forget. Windows and whitewash by Phillipa Johnson.

Leader of the wolves.

2010-05-25T13:02:00.005-04:00

Outside my late grandmother's house stood a big Camellia bush - it was more like a tree really, getting bigger every year. And when you're a kid everything seems bigger, right? Every Spring before the flowers came out we hung Easter eggs from the small branches. I've got some happy memories with Camellias to say the least, and lots of family photos (tho sadly none here with me now to share).

So when I spotted a small bush in my back garden in London I enjoyed several weeks of fresh Camellia's in my room. It really made me miss my Nana - I've been thinking a lot recently about my family tree and how not all branches have been accounted for. Sadly the house is being sold and I may never get to go back inside. I'm left with a lifetime of memories, a perfect-to-me image of the house from top to bottom. And when I get back home I will be re-united with several of my Nana's prize possessions, which I will treasure forever. Here's hoping the bush will still be there for a few sneak snips every now and then . . .

*Interestingly, according to wiki, Camellia comes from a tribe in Antartica called the "hensheig" they were known to be part of a wolf pack. The wife of the tribe was named Camellia which means leader of the wolves.

Playing favourites.

2010-05-18T19:20:00.002-04:00

The past six months have been a bit of a nitemare for me. Lots of troubles and ups and downs, worries about where I will end up and what will happen. I don't really want to go into it too much on here but let's just say, I might soon be unemployed and moving back to the US. I've held on hoping that something would happen in London, but it doesn't look good. It won't be the worst thing that's ever happened, but it's definitely not what I want to do. I will go knowing I've done everything I could have done, and I will take with me some fabulous memories of the past two-and-a-half years here.

That being said, Golden Lane (Designed in 1952 by Chamberlin, Powell and Bon - who later designed the Barbican - and completed 1962) is just a hop, skip and a jump away from the office, and it's a sight that never ceases to amaze me. It's the perfect lunchtime hideaway, especially if you're like me and fascinated by housing estates. . . the designs, the names of the blocks. Great Arthur House towers over the rest of the blocks, its brilliant yellows captivating in sun and in shade.

I've heard plenty of horror stories about people being told to leave the country within 24 hours, which right now would be my worst nitemare. If that ever happened I would prolly have to leave a lot of treasures behind. And recently I've started thinking, if I could only take one suitcase, what would be in it? This ensemble would be one of the first things to go in, rag curls and all. My friend Ashby sent me a lil' care package from back home and inside was this polka dot Judy Bond blouse, complete with its original tags from an Asheboro department store. After a soak I have been wearing it at least once (!) a week. The skirt I found at a vintage shop in Brick Lane - does anybody remember 'Vintage Heaven'? - One of those shops where things are brought in by the truckload, and you had to really comb the racks to find a treat. At their closing down sale I found this beautiful homemade skirt, which I've also been spending a lot of time in. And let's not forget my favourite light-weight jacket, a workwear smock with peter pan collar and rich layers of history, from the first Angels sale. These would all prolly go into the suitcase first thing.

Speaking of suitcases, I'd better get back to packing. Cornwall here I come . . . !

Get-away.

2010-05-18T16:55:00.008-04:00

I'm having a (much needed) long weekend away this weekend in Falmouth, Cornwall. Any recommendations for a first-timer to Cornwall - good eats, site-seeing and (window)shopping - will be greatly appreciated. Fingers-crossed this warm weather burst stays put.

Good As New.

2010-05-16T13:08:00.006-04:00

When I find myself missing 'home' I oftentimes find myself in vintage shops, which really only makes me more homesick. . . I end up looking at things which can be way out of my price range and leave wishing I could transport myself back to the North Carolina thrift shops to really feel like I was walking away with a deal!

I've spent quite a lot of time in South London over these past few months, and found two great shops I wanted to pass along to you. 'Cenci' in West Norwood was also previously in Covent Garden. No photos are allowed inside the shop, but just imagine floor-to-ceiling stacks of letter sweaters and Breton sweaters in every colour and every size. You will need to give yourself several hours just to take it all in. There are also several charity shops along the high street which will keep you busy, and be sure to check out the cemetery behind the library - perfect for a summer's day picnic.

If you are ever in Brockley grab a coffee from Brown's of Brockley and head to 'Good As New / Birds Dress Agency' in Malpas Road. I was drooling over the fur-baubled bag in the window (up top here) and after several weeks walked by at a time when they were open, only to fall in love with a tartan cape. The cape, which I've yet to successfully photograph in all its magic, was hands-down my top purchase of Winter 2009, and has won me many a compliment. With the mood-swings of London weather perhaps we will have one more outing this year yet!

I don't know much about the shop, aside from there are some real heart-breakers inside, but I hope to make a further investigation very soon! With such a sweet name and 'established 1830' there's bound to be a story there, right? If anyone out there knows. . . or if you can recommend other great vintage stops in South London please do.

Falling for London: The great escape.

2010-05-11T05:42:00.002-04:00

I can't remember how I first learnt about Crystal Palace, but ever since I found out it existed, I've wanted to go and see the dinosaurs. After two years in London I decided one brisk sunny day in March it was about time.

The world's first prehistoric sculptures were designed by Benjamin Waterhouse Hawkins under the guidance of Professor Richard Owen, who invented the word 'dinosaur'. They were based on contemporary ideas of what dinosaurs looked like. Hawkins held a New Year's Eve dinner party inside the Iguanodon at which famous scientists ate pigeon pie. The park opened in 1854 when the Crystal Palace was re-erected there after the 'Great Exhibition of the Works of the Industry of all Nations', conceived by Prince Albert (1819-1861) and held at Hyde Park, London in 1851. The dinosaurs were refurbished in the early 21st century. - From Science & Society

Owen and Hawkins set out to create 33 life-size replicas of pre-reptile animals, a time trail and a lead mine. The models represented not only dinosaurs but also amphibians, crocodiles, marine reptiles, flying reptiles and early mammals. They used fossils from the Natural History Museum and compared them with the bones of modern animals. It is said that this was the first time a 'controversial' theory proclaimed that such animals did exist millions of years ago, pre-dating Darwin's The Origin of Species (1859).

Reading about the site beforehand and seeing the dinosaurs from a passing train a few times, I imagined my very own Jurassic Park in which I would come face-to-face with the creatures. I'm not ashamed to admit I even daydreamed (extensively!) about having my Christmas portrait taken atop a dinosaur, with flowing curls and a miniature tree in hand. Upon arrival I realised the closest I could get was with my zoom! Though I wasn't as lucky as the kids in 'Our Mother's House' (1967, clip below) to ride through the magical world in a boat, I grinned ear-to-ear nonetheless.

You could spend the better part of a day at Crystal Palace - once you've seen the dinosaurs you can follow the paths around the grounds to the stadium, the sports complex, the ruins and the maze (!).

The maze marks the spot where, in 1909, a small group of girls dared to attend a Scouts' Rally and approach Sir Robert Baden-Powell, requesting that he set up ‘something for the girls’. Baden-Powell founded the Girl Guides a few months later.

I want to make another trip to Crystal Palace once the leaves of the maze have grown in. It was actually a really difficult and frustrating maze, but we made it in the end.

The 990,000 square foot Crystal Palace itself was built in Hyde Park as a place for more than 14,000 exhibitors from around the world to gather and celebrate the progress of the industrial revolution and the might of the empire.

The 'Palace', originally designed by Joseph Paxton, who had been gardener at Chatsworth, in Derbyshire, was subsequently relocated to Sydenham, to the area now known as Crystal Palace. Many of the sculptures and flourishes were relocated with it, and whilst the palace itself burned down in 1936, some of the other elements remain and the Sphinx still stands guard at the entrance, keeping watch to check who accesses the empty terraces where a palace once stood.

So I didn't have my shot with the dinosaurs, but I was able to lie atop the Sphinx for a short rest -- dork alert.

Overlooking the grounds you can only begin to imagine all the wonderful, magical things that went on in the Palace. From bee-keepers to balloon enthusiasts and vegetable champions, there were surely lots of smiles. It's a great escape.

All historic images are from the Science and Society Picture Library. You can see full captions on my flickr. And p.s., thank you so much for your sweet comments on my last post - it means the world to me.

Window shopping.

2010-05-04T17:03:00.006-04:00

I do miss blogging but my head is still a bit all over the place, so I'm going to ease back in gently. With apprehension of a cross-Atlantic move (short of a miracle) I'm selling off some things from the vault, a few old stand-by's, others that could've almost been. Check back every few days or so for more.

Hello.

2010-03-10T19:58:00.003-05:00

I'm not quite ready to come back yet.

And many more.

2010-02-19T15:50:00.000-05:00

Happy 60th Mom!

Scrap Exchange no. 14: Embroidery and Applique.

2010-01-10T13:35:00.002-05:00

A few patterns from my personal collection, with A New Folk Art in mind. The Canadian Tuxedo couple are breakin' my heart.

Let's hear it for the boys.

2010-01-04T18:24:00.003-05:00

Trying out a few bags for the men in my life.

Scrap Exchange no. 13: A New Folk Art.

2010-01-03T05:32:00.003-05:00

These glorious images are from Richard M. Owens and Tony Lane's American Denim: A New Folk Art (1975). Levi's Big E's adorned with the handiwork of rainbows, dinosaurs and submarines, among other fantasies, set my heart a-flutter. Where are they now. . . ?

Scrap Exchange no. 12: Bliss.

2010-01-02T06:02:00.009-05:00

Happiness is Bliss, a Martin Parr postcard collection from 2003.

'Despite their fakery, we can't help being charmed by their authentic innocence.' -MP

Trunk sale.

2009-12-22T19:29:00.002-05:00

So the market was a big hit! I slept about three hours the nite before, the light bulb on my sewing machine went out in the final moments and I was so shy at selling my wares. But all in all I was happy to see everyone and most excited to see all my hard work come together at one time. We had special visitors with gingerbread, mince pies and hot teas, and my friend Julian was on hand to give me a nudge whenever a customer looked interested.

[Photo by Katie Horwich]

Using North Carolina's rich textile history as a starting point I made a new paper-cut logo with a cotton branch.

It turned out just perfect for cards, signs and for the first time, custom wrapping paper (!) tied up with deadstock Coronation ribbon.

Other new additions have been 'tongue and groove' pleats, thinking back on my childhood home, and the first bag with leather straps, something I've wanted to do for a long while now.

[Photo by Katie Horwich] I was so happy to get into bed that nite, I slept from 8.30 to 8.30!

Today at Tate!

2009-12-13T03:51:00.002-05:00

My friend Emma will be generously selling some of my wares at Rob Pruitt's Flea Market, today from 11 am to 6 pm in the Tate Turbine Hall. Check it out if you're nearby.

*Time is on my side.

2009-12-06T14:38:00.002-05:00

I've fallen behind on blogging this past month or so, I had some bad news and things have been far from good. I'm working to sort it all out, but immigration troubles are no joke! To try and keep my mind off things I've been holed up in my sewing corner working towards my first-ever UK market stall, which will be this coming Saturday 12 December in Stoke Newington. If you're nearby it would be great to see you!

Hello friends, Save the date for Saturday 12 December 2009 when my lil' venture Growin' Up makes its UK market stall premiere. Stop by to say hello and see this snail cross the finish line. I'll have pouches and totes among other carriers and surprises, starting at £10. Just in time for mistletoe I'll be treating you to special offers, custom gift wrap, 'free with purchase' and if you're lucky some of my Nana's 'Martha Washington' candies. Some of you already know that I've hit a big hurdle with my visa - thus all proceeds go straight into the 'Keep Jess in Britain Fund'. Here's hopin' to see you on the 12th if not before. Big love, jess *What Growin' Up's first UK market stall *When Saturday 12 December, 10.30 am-5 pm *Where Of Cabbages & Kings Christmas Market Abney Hall 73a Stoke Newington Church Street London N16 0AS Nearest overland: Stoke Newington or Rectory Road Buses 73,393, 476 stop outside Abney Hall

Good eats: There's always room for. . .

2009-11-06T14:40:00.004-05:00

I don't think I've ever expressed my 'gotta-have-it' love for cake here in blogger land. It's real and it's deep. And it started at an early age. I still have very fond memories of a 'Strawberry Shortcake' themed cake made by my Aunt Peggy for my fifth birthday. And my mama's 'Coca-Cola' cake for my older brother's thirteenth. Both my grandma's had their own versions of chocolate frosting: Fannie's is the one I use to this day. Savannah's was fondly called 'chocolate skin' because you could peel the frosting right off layers of cake!

When I was in high school my mom and I took a cake decorating class at Hungate's arts and crafts in the mall. I was the youngest person there! We made it through beginner, intermediate and advanced (wedding cakes!) and soon had a lil' business going doing different cakes. Saying that I became burned out would be an understatement. But gobs of buttercream and late-nite hand cramps never stopped me from having cake cravings! Nowadays I make cakes when I want and how I want, always ready to try something new.

So to celebrate the opening of our new commission 'Bunker' I made 'War Cakes' using Ann Jackson's recipe from Heart of the Home. Tho eggless, butterless and milkless they were mighty tasty.

And to say good-bye to one of our curators I channeled Buckminster Fuller with a geodesic dome - this one brought back the hand cramps!

With the holidays comin' on full force I want to try, among other varieties, a candy bar cake and a red velvet cake from scratch. There's just one question - who wants to lick the bowl?

Family Wreath: Tommy Jr.

2009-10-30T18:26:00.003-04:00

For years a small chocolate box sat in my Nana's side board. The box was filled with dozens of photographs taken by Thomas Jefferson Rolland Jr. (1915-62), my father's uncle, during WWII. When I was last home I scanned in some of my favourites before giving the lot to my father for safe keeping. Here are a few of them with Tommy Jr.'s own captions. The last two always get my imagination a'racin' with thoughts of who he met along the way and how the places might look now. They leave me wishing I could hear the stories behind each and every click of the shutter.

'Visley - look at the crease in my pants' 'Berne' 'Bremen' 'Castle Denmark' 'Church Visley' 'Copenhagen' 'From hotel in Stockholm' 'Railroad station Denmark' 'Renne'

'Wherever your eyes should fall they should fall on objects of beauty.'

2009-10-20T19:29:00.003-04:00

who doesn't like getting paid to play hookie? for our staff away day we jumped the coach to Charleston Farmhouse and Berwick Church in Sussex. visiting the Bloomsbury group's former playground was inspiring to say the least. and a countryside tease always makes me smile.

as soon as we walked into the house i was ready to move in! every little detail, each brushstroke, each one of Vanessa Bell's circles, the Omega fabrics, every snippet of gossip, set my heart a'flutterin'.

you're not allowed to take photographs in the house, which at first made me a bit mad (!). everything is so beautiful and i wanted to capture it all. not just look at it in a book through someone else's photographs. but the next day, still holdin' onto my Charleston buzz, i decided it's a good thing! i'll definitely be going back there one Sunday, and until then, i can hold everything in my memory. i did find a couple of great examples over on type happy.

i don't want to gush too much about this place, but! i'll just say if you can make it one day, don't pass it up. our tour guide Patsy gave us some great quotes which i'm including down below here . . . . 'If it stood still in the house, they painted it. If it moved in this house, they made love to it.'

Bloomsbury group lived by three rules: love of beauty, love of truth, and most importantly, love of friendship.

Dorothy Parker said of Bloomsbury in the 1920s: 'They painted in circles, lived in squares and loved in triangles.' 'Wherever your eyes should fall they should fall on objects of beauty.' - Vanessa Bell

tobacco country.

2009-10-12T17:59:00.004-04:00

growing up in Rougemont, North Carolina, summer sights from the porch swing included a magically-different-every-night sun setting over a pond with rows of tobacco waiting to be harvested. to think i couldn't wait to get out of there. nowadays i would give just about anything to see one of those sunsets again.

[these promotional 'needle books' are from my Grandma Fannie's sewing stash.]

Scrap exchange no. 11: Mingering Mike.

2009-10-11T12:30:00.004-04:00

'Mingering Mike: A One-Man Band' from DAM Magazine, Jan/Feb 2009

click on each image to enlarge, and afterwards, ger yer groove on.

Falling for London: Mystery shop.

2009-10-07T03:24:00.006-04:00

my daily bus route makes its way past an abandoned shop in Springdale Road N16, and i often smile and have a lil' think about what might be inside. with a name like 'NOSTALGIA' the shop could be filled with any number of delights. upon closer inspection the rusting grated windows reveal nothing and the painted-over-type above the door reads 'UPHOLSTERY & POLISHING', only adding to the mystery!