monica's vintage inspired

it's been a little over a year... you may now find me here! ♥

2010-09-27T11:30:00.000-07:00

http://www.nestperch.blogspot.com/

please follow us along on junque adventures, events, and more!

a garden party...

2009-06-03T08:45:00.000-07:00

images from marthastewart.com

A Garden Party for all. A fundraiser. A cause. Live music. Good eats.

Are you in?

Details to follow soon. Bellisima!

checking out...

2009-06-02T08:38:00.000-07:00

image from flikr by yvette inufio

Just a few smalls, fixtures, and props at the shop. I really need to focus this last week at my shop...

then, I can jump into my next chapter!

A Most Lovely Final Diva Day it was...

2009-05-31T21:21:00.001-07:00

I took a short breather just long enough to snap a few images...

So many beautiful chicas (& guys) stopping by just to wish me the best of luck and mentioning how much FUN it's been!

I can honestly say it was probably the hardest week of preparation due to all the end-of-school activities for both my moppets, plus my husband's job, evening engagements...

What I will not miss: Difficult customers!

The evening turned out SO very beautiful with my true, lovely customers & friends

who were, and will always be, the most loveliest of all!

And that is what I will miss most of all!

The Final Diva Day Friday tomorrow...

2009-05-28T06:44:00.000-07:00

the youngest, (and cutest) hat wearin' Diva to date...

Troy, I believe, was the only 'male Diva' to date...

great stories...

great times...

loveliest chica...stage left...

The hardest part of closing shop: No more Diva Days...

The easiest part of closing shop...being home for my loveliest Divas of all.

It's been a great ride! Thanks for supporting

my vintage inspired dream!

XOXO

Monday musings...Let's Caravan!

2009-05-24T21:52:00.000-07:00

I just arrived home from camping. My kind of camping would be to camp out at this shop while admiring beautiful finds. Oh yes, in London...of course!

Stylist Emily Chalmers, and author of Flea Market Style, also owns a stunning shop in London called Caravan...

Surreal sweetness found here: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=mzqEY2dAKxY

Thomas Paul Love...

2009-05-24T00:35:00.000-07:00

I know... I am such a sucker for birds and nests. Always have been. I have admired this line since the very first day I laid eyes on the website... swoon.

More eye candy for your nest @ : www.thomaspaul.com
Excuse me, while I order some melamine plates for a summer soiree.

Coasting...

2009-05-18T18:42:00.000-07:00

images from google...

We leave on a camping trip to the coast Wednesday morning. When I first met my husband back in '84, I found it so odd to hear people say, "we're heading to the coast"...only because I had just moved inland to Redding. Growing up in the South Bay, it was so foreign to me when I heard people say it. Now, it brings sheer joy to my heart when I say, "we're heading to the coast". If I don't get to the ocean at least twice a year, I am NOT a happy camper. With the closure of my shop around the corner, this is the perfect place to just breathe and reflect with my kids. The weather should be sunny in the high 50's while it is in the 90's here, in Redding.

Oh, I love staying 'on the coast'!

A new Chapter...

2009-05-11T14:19:00.000-07:00

Our good friend, Tommy, once told my husband that even if I wasn't making tons of money at my shop, people sure like visiting!

ladies always want tips and pointers from 'Furniture Diva Diane'

True. I never opened a shop for the money. I opened it for a passion of Home and great moments! Diva Day Friday was a hit from Day One! The 'Diva Bar' always seemed the best spot to get all the latest scoop & happenings around town. (Not to mention great cocktails). Lots of laughter, for sure...a place where the chicas hang out, let their hair down just a bit, and sing all the lyrics to La Belle, Marvin Gaye, & Chaka Khan...

My undying gratitude goes out to all of the fabuluous jewelry artists I've met through the shop...

all of the priceless friendships that I have made...

to the chicas that have been with me since the very beginning...

and all the chicas that remained to the end...

for all of the prop-styling over the past few years being quite the ordeal...

and for those many, many long nights of flipping the entire shop, (moving all of the furniture& goods around), until 11pm - or well past midnight... when I dragged my exhausted butt through our door at home, Tim would massage my calves and give me an 'atta girl'... = )

but I always LoVeD the end result...

for me, my shop was always my sanctuary, a resting spot, my fantasy, my passion...

and I loved sharing it with other lovely chicas...

and so many lovely chicas shared my same passion and 'got me'...they really understood!

view out my front door @ home...

So, for now, I bid you Bon Voyage as I close my shop doors. My husband is expanding on his career which will require me to be home with our moppets.

He has been my #1 TRUE FAN & supporter. I will now become his...

This isn't the end however...but rather, a new beginning for us.

A new chapter in the life of monica's... now, with a capital 'M'.

~Monica's Nest~

Stay tuned...

It's sure to be a fun voyage!

I just wanna fly...

2009-04-30T21:27:00.000-07:00

This Saturday i will attend the 'Fly Girls' event at Rolling Hills. I love their catch phrase...Some of the Best Fishermen Aren't Men...A charity event for women who have, or may have had, breast cancer. Along with other independent shops, I will be setting up shop, and I fear that sometimes I bite off more than i should! A bit nervous as I am definitely a 'newbie' at this...my first show to be exact! Wish me luck. Now, i will go make my lists, check 'em again, pray...and sleep...and go on with the show!

when i get back i just want to soak...

No, i wish this were my bathroom......and No, Robert Redford will NOT be washing my hair...that's okay. Tim always offers to massage my calves when i hop out of the shower, after an especially long day...and that's okay!

Spring Flingin' it...

2009-04-29T18:24:00.000-07:00

The Cottage Tour was wonderful last weekend. The weather was beautiful, the artists were lovely, the homeowners gracious, and the attendees extremely courteous! We don't have a final count on ticket sales just yet...but it should be good! Thank you all for attending this inspirational event. Thank you for supporting our local Women's Refuge. Women helping other women. You ladies ROCK!

Another Event?!

Yes! Join us for 3 full days of Spring Goodness! Attend all 15 shops, (grab a Shop Hop Map), within the next 3 days, and enter a chance for 1 of 3 lovely Spring Baskets! It is a celebration of Spring and YOU, our lovely customers. Refreshments, various door prizes, and fun throughout the weekend. Stop by to say 'hello'. I'd love to see you.!

Monday Musings...a few Cottage 'Pre Tour' images...

2009-04-20T13:40:00.000-07:00

Yesterday was our 'pre-tour' for Sunday's 3rd Annual Cottage Tour. A smooth day overall, (with the usual minor glitches of parking issues & signage to be made). It was a nice opportunity for the homeowners to meet eachother and share inspirational ideas. This year, we plan to sell 300 tickets and proceeds benefit our local Women's Refuge.

First home on this year's tour, Tanya Williams with Cottage Tour participants, in her 1800's farmhouse kitchen.

A place to hang your hat. bear rug...
beautiful brass bed in this 'Cowboy' themed guest room...
We then headed to the second farmhouse-style home near Shasta College...Ladies, this home is on the market and i SO want to move in!
loved the kitchen nook...looks out to the surrounding property just off the sun porch.
The third home was the 'doll house'...this is her 'Paris' themed bedroom...
everything is put together so sweetly...
a tribute to her parents...letters her father sent to her mother during WWII.

The garden was so enchanting... just wish i could take more photos! But, we had to move on...

to the fourth and final home on the tour...this 'Westside Story' home reminds me of a cross between Veranda magazine and Better Homes and Gardens...

divine kitchen...

terrific bedroom terranium next to a fainting couch...

so many lovely items throughout these homes that i could spend an entire day shooting images and it would never do them justice. These homes are simply beautiful. The owners are beautiful for sharing their inspiration for a great cause. Women helping other women is key. By purchasing a ticket for this year's Cottage Tour, you help women towards a better future. Proceeds benefit our local Women's Refuge and we will treat you to an Art Faire with various artists, musicians, and refreshments at the old Village Schoolhouse location in Market Square following the tour. So, grab a pal, go for a Sunday Drive, and prepare to be inspired!

shop local, save your local economy...

2009-04-15T21:42:00.000-07:00

This morning, I shared this with our Shop Hop Team. It's a nationwide movement to save independent, local, brick and mortar shops. If we all did our share by shopping local, we help preserve our local economy that this country was built on. Not just small retail shops, but also our local grocer (Sunset Marketplace, Holiday Market ), your local dry-cleaner, baker (Sweetspot, From the Hearth Bakery), butcher (R&R Meats, Kents), restaurants (Your fave here!)...the list goes on and on...

Check out the 3/50 project website @: http://the350project.net for more info. Oh, and thanks for stopping by my shop and saying 'hello'. You're the reason i opened a shop in good ole' Redding!

Magical nights of Spring...

2009-04-13T10:38:00.000-07:00

Saturday night's Art Hop was a magical night...thanks to Heather. Her show was divine & her images now grace the shop this month of April. Perfect for Spring's Month of the Child. It was so much fun to see her glow! Honestly, the whole shop was glowing as well! So many fresh, new faces, & so many, many, flowers! It seemed that everyone had a fresh bouquet in hand! (We looked like a floral shop in the back room!). I can see why everyone gifted her flowers. Heather definitely brings out the best in people...not only in her images, but in true life...

...some of the Spring items Heather photographed.

...& a bit more.
Speaking of magical nights...Spring brings magical days.
By the end of April all will be in full bloom! The 2009 Cottage Tour takes place on the last Sunday of this month. So, mark your calendar, grab someone special, and take the tour on Sunday, April 26th.

3rd Annual Cottage Tour 2009
Sunday, April 26th
11am-4pm
with a Grand Finale Reception Art Faire
2pm-6pm
Art, wine, refreshments, & music
at Market Square
(old Village Schoolhouse location)

tickets cost $20 ea.
limited number of tickets available can be purchased at any of the 15 Redding Shop Hop locations. see: shophopredding.com
proceeds benefit our local Shasta Womens Refuge

This is a fun event featuring 4 creative, casual, cottage-style homes! Makes the perfect (early) Mothers Day gift as well!

more Heather Love...

2009-04-10T20:52:00.000-07:00

more images taken by Heather.

Something in the way she captures my shop is magical. It shows me my everyday displays through different eyes. I don't think that even if i had her equipment/camera, that i could capture things the way she does. I feel like the Grinch when his heart gets so very big that it bursts out of it's restraint. Thank you, Heather Armstrong. Thank you with all my heart!

Heather Love...

2009-04-09T08:30:00.000-07:00

photo taken by Heather Armstrong

I am so delighted that I my heart breakdances knowing Heather Armstrong, local photographer, is my featured artist for April's Art Hop, this Saturday!

This month is a celebration of children being 'Month of the Child', featuring childrens' artwork. I chose Heather because of the fabulous way she captures children & families through her photography.

She is one talented chica. So, go grab a cup of tea, coffee, a glass of wine, what have you, and check out her website @: http://www.heatherarmstrongphotography.com/. Lovely!

Prepare to be inspired!

quick re-nest monday!

2009-03-30T19:21:00.001-07:00

Today i did an entryway 're-nest' for an older ranch-style home.

before...

after...

Normally we pick wall colors first. However, on Thursday of last week I received a visit from Julie Marsh, a freelance writer who is writing an article for a new publication (through the local paper due out late spring). She asked if I would be able to do a 'before & after' by Monday. (Here's where it gets cRaZy)...I was madly preparing for Diva Day Friday and heading out of town for a weekend getaway with my family. I knew I wouldn't be home until well after midnite on Sunday. (Soooo, just hook an IV of coffee to my arm & i can pull anything off! No problem!). Monday morning came WAY too fast...and still more to do!

Using primarily the homeowner's belongings, the piano was placed in their family room, and I rearranged their entryway space. I asked if they had black & white or sepia tone images of their parents or grandparents. They found one for me to hang. The others are going to be framed and will look fabulous flanking the wall with the lone one. What a lovely way to pay tribute. A little paint, some plants, proper window treatments...we're on our way!

Before.

After.

...and that was quite the quick 're-nest' on this gorgeous Monday!

fresh local goodness...

2009-03-26T19:20:00.000-07:00

...at the shop tomorrow nite
sweet Jillian Dillon of Ashbury Road

Fresh pina colada jam cake and bubbly will be served.

(Plus a FAB SALE!)...
VIVA LA DIVA DAY FRIDAY!

a look back at 2nd Saturday Art Hop...

2009-03-16T12:51:00.000-07:00

Dejon Weldon, (left), is the featured Art Hop artist at the shop. She is the sweetest! We had a casual, lovely Art Hop evening. Hanging out with young visitors can be inspiring & nostalgic.

Dejon's images are intimately tucked in the corner of the shop...
Chicas from Iceland, they were FABulous!

Swing by and check out her images of Carnivale in Venice and the black & white images of a cute, piccolo vecchio! Art Hop is a great way to get out on the town and visit all the local talent & local businesses who provide wine & nosh (at least i do!)...So, grab a pal and get Hoppin'!

sunday swoon...

2009-03-12T08:50:00.000-07:00

Rainy Sundays are heavenly. Taking inventory at the shop is not. (On a Sunday, no less). A shop task with my kind (& mostly patient) husband. Lovely grandma has taken the moppets for the day while Tim & I knock this out. Grabbing my blues mix to play loud at the shop. This might be a good day after all...

Happy Sunday to ya!

Diva Day Friday - jewelry with a cause...

2009-02-26T11:55:00.000-08:00

I met Viki and Bobbi through Kimberly Nicole and was delighted when they joined the 'made in the (530) show'...

It was then I learned the story of 'Lorie Lynn Jewelry' - Jewelry with a cause.

Lorie Lynn was a good friend of Viki and Bobbi's. Lorie lost her battle with cancer after a valiant 2 year struggle. Every piece of jewelry that Viki and Bobbi create is in honor of Lorie Lynn's generous spirit and her love for life. Their website reads that ' a little of Lorie's spirit goes into every piece they make'... 10 percent of sales benefit education & prevention research of cancer.

Join us for wine, cheese, and chocolate! It's for a great cause!

Diva shoes optional...

sunday swoon...

2009-02-22T12:14:00.001-08:00

Two young chicas strolled into the shop yesterday and we chatted about Rachel Ashwell style, refurbished/upcycled furniture, and our love for vintage goods. i mentioned a designer i stumbled upon on the 'decor 8' blog. i initially thot she was from the UK. i stand corrected. Her name is Lyn Gardner and she is actually from Australia. i am now a fan...she is lovely inspiring.
i hope you enjoy this video as much as i do! Oh, and if ever you head down under, this is a must see on your travel agenda!

Today's lovely Sunday Swoon...

Spring...

2009-02-16T20:22:00.000-08:00

images taken by Doni Greenberg of last year's tour.

a sweet sign done by Maggie Andersen.

It's coming....it's coming...it's coming! The 3rd Annual Cottage Tour, that is! I just met with Sheri of Fabrics Etc, Lynni of Antique Cottage & Gardens, and Jeanette of Infinite Designs. Much was discussed and we are all looking forward to Spring. Now, the search begins for (4) four cottage-style 'nests' to feature on this year's tour! These fotos were taken by Doni Greenberg who wrote a lovely column. The tour benefited Habitat for Humanity. This year's tour will benefit our local Redding Women's Refuge.

Lyndi and David Jenkins' romantic mantle.

Bev & Matt Clark's retro living room.

vintage glass insulators on the windowsill of Barbara and Dan Sturgill.

a petite wine tasting room in Greg Reimann's 1920's home

(now The Desmond House B&B).

Maggie Andersen's Art Farm in Palo Cedro.

Last year Maggie & Ed Andersen graciously hosted an artisan faire complete with 20 artists, music,and refreshments!

Four lovely nests, beautiful sunny weather, and lots of smiles. I'm keeping my fingers crossed and saying a prayer that this year is just as good!

Mark your calendar: Sunday, April 26th from 11am-4pm. Ticket cost: $20. each.

sunday swoon

2009-02-15T22:12:00.000-08:00

Lovely Troy covered the shop during Art Hop last nite so i could leave a bit early...

a sign posted as i walked thru the door...

my sweet hostess (Alex) immediately took my coat, hat, and bags and asked me to please have a seat...

I didn't ask for roses...

I think this young garcon (my son Ryan) had something to do with it... he lit candles, turned on music, and asked if i preferred a glass of red or white with my meal...

i chose white...

The kids left...i had a clean white comforter near a roaring fire...and that is my sunday swoon of last nite's Valentines Day treat.

February, the month of love...

2009-02-12T08:06:00.000-08:00

At the dinner table last Sunday, I told Tom & his sweet girlfriend Destiny, that all i wanted for Valentines Day was a good meal, a good glass of merlot, and a fresh down comforter. (A nice roaring fire in the hearth would be nice, too....hint to my man).

Yeah, i know i'm easy.

Some people do not believe in a soul mate. I choose to differ.

My favorite tickets. "if i had one hundred wishes i would gift them all to you"...

Underneath a wall fountain, a quote on a vintage chalkboard. "The human heart yearns for the beautiful".

A mom for so many, many years I have baked dozens of heart-shaped cookies, cut & pasted hundreds of Valentines on our dining room table, & let my man of 20+ years know how much i do appreciate him. Simple. No diamonds, no roses, no fuss...just plain domestic bliss...

Here's to a Happy Valentines Day for all. May it be your lover, a friend, your kid(s), someone whom you love, admire, and appreciate, be sure to let them know.

Re-nested & Re-opening 2009

2009-01-21T19:04:00.000-08:00

Three Chicas
Party Planner Patty, Furniture Diva Diane, and moi

flung open the doors just in time for January Art Hop..

I need photos of the side windows which Maggie Andersen so generously painted. Words cannot describe how luscious they are! Her fabuloso, floral painted windows provide a lovely privacy screen! It's perfect for my black thumb self! Stop by to see her whimsically painted flower garden...

Sweet Sten Hoiland of Chico was fun to watch while he created his whimsical wire characters...

A lovely night...with such lovely guests...

A fresher, brighter, lighter shop...

and a perfect match for our January Re-opening reception...

Fabulous "Troy Hawkins"corner in the shop...xoxo

So many people to thank for all the support they've given throughout 2008. Times are tougher than they've ever been...but I look forward to 2009 with a hopeful heart. Like the small piece of newsprint i've carried forever in my wallet. I wish i could remember where i found it. It's dog-eared & worn (kinda like me!) and reads; "You can't help noticing the bad times; they have ways of getting your attention. It's the good times that are easy to miss, hard to recognize until they're gone. You have to slow down and watch closely for them. And when you see one coming your way, reach out and grab it. Clutch it to your heart. Stand in awe of your good fortune, and be thankful. And before you let it go, lift it up for your children, point it out like a shooting star and let it shine. Make sure they see it. Remind them, lest they forget, that they are loved and life is good."...

Ooh, and lest i forget, a special thanks to "Ms. Capitan" for the fotos...you did mahhvelous!

Say a Prayer for Randy Miller...

2008-12-07T09:46:00.000-08:00

I've blogged about Randy Miller before...Last time it was about his talent.

This time I wish it was for something similar...

(image from Flikr)

Recently, Randy was diagnosed with Chondrosarcoma, a rare form of bone cancer. Randy cannot work his concrete business or play with his band. Like many independent business owners and musicians, Randy doesn't have the health care to cover expenses to support his beautiful wife & two children. We are hosting a raffle in Redding for a brand new Wii. There are several businesses to buy tickets from. So, buy a ticket and help Randy win this battle. Every bit counts.

Check out the video for more information or donations. http://www.themyriad.net/

Favorite Things~continued...

2008-12-04T22:37:00.000-08:00

dream homes with bottle brush trees...

blue cottage SOLD...

Cody Foster started making vintage houses in Nebraska back in '91. He was 16 years old when his grandmother taught him to craft lovely cottages and churches. People from all across the country collect his whimsical, classic abodes.

Cody's vintage tree is currently featured on the cover of this month's

Country Living Magazine.

The best part is hosting a drawing for one prime, real estate home.

Congrats to the Lovely Linda Graf! Linda won the Snowman Cottage when she atttended the "Champagne & Chocolate Indulgence Soiree" during Redding's "Holiday Shop Hop".

These are just some of my favorite "Goods"...

2008-12-03T19:36:00.000-08:00

OK... I am a BaD BloGGer! I do not blog well... good Bloggers post fabulous images and wonderful write-ups weekly...Daily!!! Please forgive me, as being sole proprietress-Shop owner, mom, wife, Domestic Diva Extraordinaire...Ha! I am Crazy Busy wearing all the hats this Christmas season. This is where most Shop owners have no life of their own. Ahhh, the drama...

Currently, I am hosting the "Made in the (530) Show". Featured local artisan wares at the shop for the Holiday Season!

I've decided to post some of my faves now thru Christmas.

Today's pick: My favorite Tray from artist Viki Twyman

(pardon the bad blog fotog!)

Viki Twyman was introduced to me through the beautiful Kimberly Nicole. (If you haven't visited the lovely Kimberly Nicole Boutique yet, ladies you are missing out!). Viki not only produces fabulous jewelry for a great cause, she makes these custom wine bottle-cheese plates! You can custom order yours with about any image for that uncommon gift which is both functional and fabulous! Currently in stock are ones with great vintage images, be sure to swing by and check them out before Christmas!

*custom personalized cheese plates orders~ one week turnaround.*

Happy Happy Sunday Swoon

2008-10-26T15:10:00.000-07:00

I love Sundays. I love Sundays. Yippee Skippee I love Sundays. (little dittie I sang this morning in my pjs while sipping coffee)...and then (record scratching) my husband showed me the morning paper with my head on the front page of our local Finance Section. Apparently our local paper cannot shave the good 20 pounds off my head like I asked. Fashion magazines shave a mere 2 millimeters off emaciated models, we fly rockets to the moon, for heaven's sake! I better dig out my leg warmers, and torn sweatshirts, and headbands/wristbands, and reeboks, and fanny belt for my bottled water and power bars, all my Richard Simmons tapes, and Butts & Gutts of Steeel vhs tapes! I'm gonna get my Jazz Hands goin'! Yowza!

They did an article on our local Shop Hop Redding which I spearheaded last year. You can read the article on Redding.com.

Sunday's swoon... It would look so lovely on Miss Andrea's wrist...(my 25 year old)...

bracelet on Laralewis.etsy.com

Check out her sweet blog: laralewis.blogspot.com...grab a cup of tea, (i like cofee) and visit this site. Her pieces are so fabulous. Each piece tells a story...sweet, dreamy, and definitely vintage inspired.

Happy Sunday to you!

Diva Day Friday & Design Chat Saturday...

2008-10-21T11:37:00.000-07:00

Tonite is Diva Day Friday!

Diana Dorn's "Bags 2 Di 4" will be featured tonite. Diana's upcycled handbags are made with vintage leather/suede jackets and hip fabrics. She will also bring her fabulous textile table runners.

Swing by and say "Hey"!

Wine, cheese, & chocolate will be served...of course!

to "Celebrate the Diva in Ya!"

Halloween Entryway featured in Country Living Magazine...

diggin' the door color
...(um, "diggin"??? Yeah, my lingo is stuck in the 70's)...

Upside-down gourds/skulls are cute...

Ut Oh...another Pre-Thanksgiving chore for me & my man!

Tune in this Saturday to KLXR Radio-1230 AM @ 9am

for the "Home Zone" with Sally Marbry.

Welcoming Fall Entryways will be the topic.

Then, head over to the shop for "Domestic Diva-Design Chat" @ 11am.

coffee, croissants, and fresh fruit will be served.

Junking 101.

2008-10-17T12:57:00.000-07:00

Finally! The fotos from the "disposable doozie camera"... Here's a smidgen of not so terrific fotos of our junking jubilation!!!

"Alameda Point Antiques & Collectibles Faire" located at the old Naval Air Force Base in Alameda...

wild...

cute shop out of Santa Cruz...

another shop from Soquel...

sweet pieces at the booth of D & L Smith Collection... be sure to check out their lovely blog!

I love stacked pieces...

swoon...

Fabulous French doors for a client...

hello...

Steve (aka: fomerly of Classic Thrift), Lorie Burch, & Ms. Kimberly Nicole of the Fabulous Kimberly Nicole Boutique-Clothing for the mind, body, & spirit! (our other Kim was on a roll, nowhere to be found for the foto op! Altho, she scored some lovely goods)...

Alameda Point Antiques & Collectibles Faire
every 1st Sunday of each month

9am -3pm: $5

7:30-9am: $10

6am-7:30am: $15
booths break down at 3pm!

So, set your alarm for the crack of dawn (or better yet, leave Saturday and spend the nite down in the bay area), grab your cash (atm avail on site), fuel up your rig, grab some galpals, and head on over to the Alameda Point Antique Flea Market. It is a kick! Be sure to keep $4. toll booth money in the ashtray or console, take anything on wheels (suitcase or granny cart), wear great walking shoes, layer up the clothing in case the fog burns off, and don't forget the sunblock if you burn easily! We had dinner @ Granzella's in Williams and made it home relatively early...Oh yeah...and HaVe FUN!!!

2morrow never came...

2008-10-10T09:13:00.000-07:00

Gotta love this image...It about sums up my mood lately...his music tames me & soothes me...and i think he just gets better with age...my Calgon Guy!

My utmost sincere apologies as I haven't posted the "Junking 101" blog...I am madly getting ready for tomorrow nite's "Art Hop"! Whenever my man takes off on business trips, as he sometimes must, I get a bit short circuited or overwhelmed, i guess one can say! My two moppets need lunches packed, homework checked, errands ran, and the house looks a sight!
My oldest daughter leaves next week for Santa Cruz and her going away party is Sunday...

So, in honor of outdoor parties I leave you with...

Interior Decorator Emanuela Marchesini... swoon...

Have a great weekend ya'll. Hope to see some of your smiles at the Hop!

Jamming & Junking!!!

2008-10-06T18:59:00.000-07:00

Saturday Nite we took the kids to see these guys...

a sold out, FaBuLoUs Myriad concert at the Cascade Theatre...

It's an honor and a blessing to know the drummer of this band...he taught my 25 year old daughter, Andrea, how to play drums when she was 11...he & the band graciously played at her sweet 16 party...we actually get to chat with him, his lovely wife, & sweet children at the occasional BBQ... his amazing drum technique and this band's surreal, melodic music touches my heart...and my kids LOVE them as much as I do!

OK...so, as far as the junking trip the next day...I woke up @ 5am, headed to the antique flea market with Lorie, Kimberly Ann, and Kimberly Nicole...& FORGOT THE CAMERA!!! Yikes!!!Total brain fart!!! ...LuCkiLY, Kimberly Nicole had one of those disposable doozies! (She also packed water bottles and granola bars for all of us...is this chick FaBuLoUs or what???!!!). film currently at the local Walgreens being placed onto disk...if they turn out,
FOTOS to be posted...2morrow!!!

Junk Trippin'

2008-10-04T07:52:00.001-07:00

I'm off tomorrow to salvage another "man"nequinn dress form...

or maybe another iron lady form...This is Cate. She's from France, then New York to Los Angeles, & finally landed here in Redding!!! (one might say she's been around!)...

I'm making my list, gutting my sweet man's monster truck, and taking 3 lovely ladies on a "Junkin' Expedition". On the last trip, 2 fabulous friends were gracious enough to be my "guinnea pigs". We had a blast! BUT... poor Karen, driving up front with moi, actually had to reach into her purse and give me TOLL BOOTH money cuz mizz monica had spent every penny! (DUHHH...note to self...place a 10 spot in ashtray for toll booth, etc...) Why can't the floggin' toll booth accept visa debit cards? UGH!!!

Fotos, location, & what to take on your Junk Trip when I get back...oooh...and what not to wear! I always smile when I see women in cha cha heels on a junk trip.

ShOcKToBeR!

2008-10-02T20:37:00.000-07:00

a blackbird has landed in the shop and lit upon some wooden eyeballs...

he's decided to stay awhile...his name is "2 buck chuck"...that's 2 bucks a bird...many are hanging around the shop lately...

My sweet man thinks this is wrong in so many ways...all i know is that most of these pens have sold!!!

Fall wreaths should arrive next week, mulled cider, biscotti & jam. Stay tuned for more fotos. Also, "Junk Trip 101"...stay tuned.

Fab Fall Trunk Show with Cene Bryant

2008-09-23T21:53:00.000-07:00

These fotos don't do her work justice... so please bear with me... the toughest part of blogging for me is lack of images. Maybe I'm just shallow, I'm just not crazy for blogs without images. You really need to see her pieces in person... truly lovely!

Are you Redding Native or how long have you lived in Redding?

miss C: I have lived in beautiful NorCal for most of my life. Born in Hayward, CA and transplanted as a toddler. I love it here and can never figure out why people say there is nothing to do...we are surrounded by the most beautiful wilderness, lakes, and rivers in the state. Not to mention we aren't far from lots of fun places...Bay area, Sacramento, the coast, Oregon...the list goes on and on.

When did you start making jewelry?

miss C: I started making jewelry about 15 years ago as a hobby, and as a way to make gifts for friends and family members. I love to give gifts that women would never buy for themselves...like jewelry. I have been making jewelry professionally for about 5 years and have grown and learned so much from my customers. I love to hear honest feedback and constructive criticism, it is what helps me to continue to improve and have a different perspective on my work.

What inspires your work?

miss C: Nature is what inspires my work most...places that I visit often inspire me to create a piece of work to remember it by. I also tend to make jewelry with someone in mind, taking into consideration their personality, likes/dislikes, style, etc...whether they buy it or not. They may never even know that I made it with them in mind. My jewelry is created in a variety of sizes, styles, and materials, and doesn't always have a universal fit for all, although I am always willing to customize for any customer.

Music choice while creating?

miss C: Reggae, for sure. It is upbeat and happy and I could listen to it all day.

Coke or Pepsi?

miss C: BEER for sure. I am a novice home brewer and I have a true affinity for beer. I love the science of creating it and experimenting with all sorts of ingredients to see what will happen. I also enjoy wine and hope to learn how to make wine someday. As for soda...Pepsi all the way.

On that note... wine will be served, along with the cheese, and cHoCoLaTe CaKe!

Trunk Show starts at 5'ish pm.

Stop by and give a warm "hello" to miss Cene!

Post Diva Day Friday & Saturday's Farmers Market Goodness...

2008-09-05T18:03:00.000-07:00

Fresh bouquet of flowers from Mary out of Chico: $7.

Suh-weet basket of strawberries from the same booth: $3.

Lovely biscotti from the Biscotti Divas (not their real name): $2

Fresh brewed Peets coffee from home: paid for previously...

Fresh Farmers Market breakfast: Priceless.

The perfect thing for a Saturday morning after a Diva Day Friday!... Last Saturday, I treated myself to fresh flowers & produce from our local Farmers Market. Visit our Farmers Market & support local producers. It's all good!

A lovely evening for Sumptuous Sangrias...

The lovely Kalika, Kimberly Nicole, & "Tara-our Crowned Diva"!

Everyone wants to get in on the door prize...leave it to Linda to find a crown of her own. Nathaniel accompanied Designer Joe to the gig...couldn't catch Joe for a foto, tho... I really gotta learn to take better pictures! Unfortunately, I was either refilling the Sangrias or ringing someone's purchases at the cash wrap! "Bakelite Diva Patty" had a great show. Kimberly Nicole won the Bakelite Door Prize! I so wish I had taken a foto of that!!! Ugh!!!

Stay tuned for more on September's Second Saturday Art Hop and the next Diva Day Friday...

Summer's End ~ Autumn's Beginning

2008-08-29T08:44:00.001-07:00

Even though my moppets are back to school, it's still so flaming HOT and it never reeeally, actually feels like Fall for me, in August...

Alas, Summer is over and it is time for Fall to roll in. Time to take down the paper lanterns and host a Paper Lantern Party! All paper lanterns on sale and summer items are marked down. So, hurry in and grab a few lovely paper lanterns to place them outside on a tree, patio, or room! Hang on to a bit of summer...trust me, they're goin fast!

Bangles Party!!!

2008-08-26T18:51:00.000-07:00

Yes Eunice, they're having a Bangles Bash with Sangrias & everythang!!!

No, not these Bangles...

(did any of you really walk like an egyptian??? yikes!)...

These Bangles!

Come join us on Diva Day Friday!!!
This Friday Nite with Special Guest:

Patty ~ "BakeLite Diva".

Patty has an extensive collection of wonderful Bakelite, Lucite, and other fantastic plastics from a bygone era! Bakelite was one of the world's first totally synthetic plastics placed into commercial use in 1910, by the American General Bakelite Company, founded & patented by Dr. Leo Baekeland in 1907. The retro appeal of Bakelite product & labor intensive manufacturing has made them quite collectible in recent years...One can definitely say "they don't make 'em like this anymore"...

Fantabulous, Fantastic-Plastic Bakelite 332 rotary dial fone

some people like to wear Bakelite...I like to make phone calls with it!

Sangria Sale starts @ 5 pm'ish

30% off any regular priced item on the shop floor

as always...

to "Celebrate the Diva in Ya"!

Let's Hop!

2008-08-08T22:20:00.000-07:00

a sweet rootin' tootin' wristlet

2nd Saturday Art Hop featuring fun sewn creations by Salisha Lloyd.

Makes me want to dig out my sewing machine and play! Um...confession... I actually failed Jr. High Sewing Class in the 70's!!! Yeah, I still get horrid flashbacks & break out in a cold sweat when seated at a Singer sewing machine to this day...Hmm maybe there's "Sewing Rehab 101" for the likes of me? hee hee...

must... have... book bag

sweet tweet satchel

Salisha's handcrafted goods may include felt, vintage buttons, metal zippers, funky polyester prints, or anything that strikes her fancy! She loves working with vintage fabrics so, the majority of her work is planet friendly. Now, that's green! Her work will be featured at the shop thru the end of August...

Be sure to check out her shop at: janeisplain.etsy.com

bags and bangles bash!

2008-08-04T12:36:00.000-07:00

Diva Day Fridays are Back!

Now that my moppets are back to school, it is time for US to play! Join us on Friday Nite, August 29th, @ 5PM 'ish for a Divaliscious Sale! It's time again to celebrate the "Diva in Ya"!

Trunk show, refreshments, and a most Divaliscious door prize await!

stop by the shop for details!