I've spent five of the last ten days visiting my aunt in Tucson, Arizona where it's sunny and warm. Most of the time. Things didn't get cold and rainy until the day I left so it all worked out. We spent some time at the Tucson Gem Show because lately I've been getting the urge to make vintage-inspired jewelry! (Must be due to the 6-square-inches of empty space I've created in the Doily Factory by using up a microscopic amount of my fabric stash. No, wait -- that can't be it because I've filled up twice that much space with new-to-me vintage fabric.)
I exercised 'extreme' self-control and brought home only a few strands of glass beads in aqua and jadeite green along with some pretty, carved medallions. And lots of ideas.
Please bear with me as I veer off-topic for a moment but here's one of those new-to-me vintage fabrics I mentioned. I've never seen this one before. Mid-century, square-dancing farmers!
I also spent some time trolling Tucson thrift stores (things seemed a tad overpriced compared to where I thrift at home) and antique malls (bought nothing but still like to browse). Knowing I would have to ship it or squeeze whatever I purchased into my puny carry-on suitcase restricted my purchasing a little and provided support for my Crafty Resolution #7. I did find a few things for my etsy shop, PeppermintBark. Just waiting for the box to arrive.
Remember the old days before air travel became what it is now? You could fill a big box with vintage treasures, seal it shut and check it as baggage for free. And without having to remove your shoes and belt, unpack your laptop or display your creams and potions in the clear plastic Baggie of Judgement. One airport security person looked at my jam-packed ziploc bag and asked "Is all of this just for you?" Ow.
Now it's time for me to get the Doily Factory up and running again, which in my dreams, would look something like this. Year round, of course.
Hope you have a terrific weekend and a sweet Valentine's Day.
Oh, the fabric is the best ~ reminds me of a vintage tablecloth. I think the Doily Factory is beautiful and I imagine it looks like that year round too :) Judi
ReplyDeleteSounds like a fun trip :)
ReplyDeleteI can hear that Doily factory chugging away. Sounds like you had a fun trip and love those carved medallions you returned home with. Happy Valentine's Day back at you!
ReplyDeleteOh my goodness! I am a former Desert Rat from Tucson--spent my growing years down there. That postcard brings back a lot fo old memories!
ReplyDeleteTheir gem shows rocks, no pun intended, eh? OMG! My parents used to take me! Wishing i was old enough then to go thrifting. Used to go yard sale-in' with my grandparents, but always in seedy areas of Tuc, so i can't remember anything good.
Glad the weather was good to you down there!
Welcome home! And thanks for the trip down memory lane.
Love the square dance fabric! I love the bead colors. Have fun making jewelry with it! LOL! Those security people are really something!
ReplyDeleteI want to live right inside that last picture. Dreamy and gorgeous. Lucky you to escape the winter doldrums. Note to self. Must make friends with Arizona dweller. Glad you had a fun getaway, Amy!
ReplyDeleteI used to spend every summer in Tucson with my grandparents. It's better to visit this time of year. Definitely. You made me laugh about finding that "6 square inches of space" and having to fill it up. It's a sickness I tell you.
ReplyDeleteHappy Valentine's DAY! - Kathy
Oh my! I am on pins and needles (oh dear, too punny?) to see what you do with all these treasures.
ReplyDeleteReally loving that last cottage picture. Did you get that there?
Sweet cottage pic...wish I could live in such a place.
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