The T-Cozy

T-Party Antiques Is Now at Stratford Antique Center!

I hope you had a nice Thanksgiving. Ours was extra special this year. I mentioned in my last post that we'd be traveling a bit over the holiday. And travel we did! Our son Jacob has been studying in London all semester, so John, Hannah, and I journeyed to the UK to visit him. Along with England, we spent a couple of days in Paris and a few more in lovely Edinburgh, Scotland. I can't wait to share more about the trip, but it will have to wait until time permits, as this week has been spent catching up and working on a new spot where I'll be selling my vintage wares.

Many years ago, I rented a booth at the popular Stratford Antique Center. Although I did quite well there, I chose to give it up during the time I had my tea room and shop. I was just too busy back then to do them both. For over a year, I have wanted a spot at this center. But the waiting list was long and vacancies few. I was thrilled to get a call from them just before my trip telling me that they had room for me at last. Yay! Now that I am no longer at SoNo Marketplace, the timing was perfect.

I have spent the last few days since my return from Europe painting and setting up my booth. It is still very much a work in progress, so I'll be sure to show you more as it develops. And look out for more posts about our journey. It was filled with inspiration and I can't wait to share it with you.

Susan

Over the River and Through the Woods

More progress has been made on our new home! The barn red paint is finally gone, the front door is a pretty shade of aqua, the shutters went from basic black to a tranquil warm gray, and the overgrown shrubbery has been transplanted to another area of our garden. Doesn't it look better? (To view the old color scheme, click HERE.)

Soon, new garage doors and gutters will be installed. Then we will take a break on the exterior until the spring when we'll add foundation plantings and redo the driveway. I also plan to place terracotta window boxes in the three front stone window wells. How sweet will that be? 

In the meantime, we have plenty to keep us busy inside. In the kitchen area, old windows are coming out; new ones in new locations are going in.

The window, below, will eventually be over our sink. I look forward to having a view of our backyard while doing the dishes. The kitchen in our former house didn't have a single window! 

My studio has a new skylight. Soon more windows will be installed on the outside walls.

Having been a rental for over a decade, our cute cottage was thoroughly neglected. I am truly enjoying bringing it back to life. As you can see, we are far from being able to cook Thanksgiving dinner here, so we will be traveling a bit over the next week. However, in a couple of months, we look forward to having a house warming party and hosting many gatherings of family and friends. 

Wishing you a warm, wonderful, and family-filled holiday. Happy Thanksgiving!

Susan

Have Yourself a Really Retro Christmas

It's getting to be that time of year once again! So here is what I have been up to — working on new Etsy listings brimming with vintage holiday appeal. 

As you probably know, I cater to the holiday shopper who prefers vintage items over new ones. Would that be you? 

Susan

Demolition Days

Lots of progress on our kitchen/family room/studio renovation project! Over the past two weeks, those rooms have been entirely gutted. Have a look . . .

Now the space is down to the studs. A few more studs have to come down, pipes need to be re-routed, and electrical wires moved. Then the demo will be complete.

Below is where my new studio will be. It was once a small office, full bathroom and laundry room. Fortunately, we were able to vault a portion of the ceiling in that room as well as in the kitchen. These areas will be light-filled once skylights are installed.

In order for us to live in our new home during this construction project, we have a temporary kitchen set up in the dining room. The living room is now multi-purpose, housing our comfy family room sectional, TV, dining table, studio storage and my desk. Although it is a bit cozy, we don't mind. If all goes well, by the new year, we'll have a lovely new kitchen, family room and studio. So exciting!

Susan

A Clean Slate

It is amazing what a new roof, removing overgrown shrubs, and a thorough power washing can do. The exterior of our new little cottage is now all clean and ready for paint. Yay!

Here are my color choices: the trim will remain white; the red siding will be painted a neutral beige to blend with the stone; the black shutters will be gray; the white gutters will be replaced with bronze aluminum ones; and the front door will be a lovely shade of aqua called "Antique Glass."

Inside, the foyer, living room and three bedrooms have freshly painted walls and gleaming refinished floors. Have a look . . .

After a month, we can finally unpack and get comfortable. (And I can begin to decorate. For me, there is nothing more fun than that!) However, while we enjoy these nice, clean rooms, our kitchen, family room and studio are undergoing their major renovation. What a mess!

It's been crazy here this week, and certainly very loud. But I can deal with it because once it's done, I know it will be fabulous. I'll share more of the demo with you soon. In the meantime . . . Happy Halloween!

Susan

Coming Soon-ish

By week's end, the foyer, living room, bedrooms and baths in our new home will be freshly painted. We've been living out of boxes for the past three weeks and it will be nice to unpack and settle in a bit. Then work will begin on our kitchen, family room and studio renovations. In the meantime, I'll be setting up a temporary studio in a corner of the living room where the first order of business will be listing the items shown below in my Etsy shop.

Time to move along my nasturtium motif kitchenware and Japan pottery collection. Remember these vintage goodies? They resided in the glass-paneled pie safe in my former kitchen. 

I also plan to list the pennant banners I made from vintage floral textiles. Love them! I think I may need to keep one for my new studio.

But before I list anything, I have to resolve a couple of issues. Since I no longer have my former studio's aqua walls and checkerboard floor to shoot against, I have to figure out where to photograph these items. But even more pressing — I need to find the box where I packed them! :)

Susan

It's a 25% Off Everything Sale . . .

Say goodbye to my SoNo MarketPlace booth! At the end of October, I am closing my brick and mortar space. But before I go, everything will be 25% off. You can save on an array of picnic tins from my personal collection, along with books, art pottery, dishes, vintage tablecloths, prints, small furniture pieces, and even the lovely oak Hoosier cabinet that has been the centerpiece of my stall for the last ten months.

Back when I opened my booth last December, my plan was to stay a couple of months. But as I got to know the other vendors, I chose to stay on. We have formed friendships and a wonderful community that I will dearly miss. However, with our recent move, things are extra busy and I need to reclaim my weekends. Of course I'll continue to have my sweet little Etsy shop! And I may be back to the market, and other local venues, as a pop-up shop in the future.

For those of you who are in the area, my "25% Off Everything Sale" runs this Friday & Saturday from 10am to 8pm and on Sunday from 10am to 6pm. SoNo Marketplace is located at 314 Wilson Avenue, South Norwalk, CT. 

Hope to see you then!

Susan

A Crazy Cacophony and a Couple of Crashes

What a week! We've been in our new house for eleven days and a whole host of projects are already underway. Now we have a brand new roof and several rooms with their original oak floors freshly sanded, sealed, and brought back to life. 

Soon interior and exterior painting will begin and I'm grateful that Hannah is coming out from NYC this weekend to assist me in selecting paint colors. I can't wait to show her the plans for our new kitchen!

For the last few days, highly skilled lumberjacks have been chopping down three giant oak trees which loomed close to our house. Although I hate to cut down century-old trees, these had rot making them a safety hazard.

 

A cacophony of hammering, chain saws, floor sanders, and tree branches crashing to the ground have serenaded me all week. On top of all of that, my hard drive crashed. The Apple Store came to my rescue and had me up and running again in a couple of hours. Aren't they the best? But I had a bit more bad luck this week when someone rear ended my car. Fortunately, no one was hurt — just my little Prius, to the tune of $8,000! 

Needless to say,  I am looking forward to a quiet and peaceful weekend. I hope you enjoy yours, too.

Susan

A Moving Experience

Yay! We have officially moved! Here is a peek at our new home, a stone and shingle Cape Cod cottage built in 1925.

Smaller than our old house, this charmer has good bones and is chock full of potential. Plus, I'm thrilled that it has retained a few vintage features — two stone fireplaces, glass doorknobs, nice woodwork, crown molding, mechanical twist doorbells, and a cool old light above the front door.

Although we've only been here a couple of days, we can already tell that this Norwalk home, on a spacious and peaceful wooded lot, is going to be a wonderful place to live. However, it desperately needs some TLC, so we aren't wasting any time and will begin renovations pronto.

Starting tomorrow, we'll be getting a new roof. Come Monday, we'll be doing tree work, clearing brush, trimming shrubs, and refinishing floors. Then we'll be ready to paint several rooms and the exterior. By the way, we are doing away with the red on the siding and opting for a warm taupe to blend with the stone. Better, don't you think? Not sure what color to go with for the front door and shutters. Maybe a light aqua?

By mid-month, we embark on a construction project where walls will come down to combine the family room and kitchen, creating a large and lovely space for John to cook and for family and friends to hang out. And let's not forget my studio! A small space off of the family room will be mine, all mine. :-)

Susan

Relics Found

Our estate sale was a huge success! Tons of stuff went out the door and off to happy new homes. We are now doing the last bit of packing, sorting through a few remaining boxes, and deciding what to keep and what to trash. While doing so, I found these...

This black and white photograph was taken around 1988 for a newspaper article that was published about my graphic design business. I'm sitting in the studio of my first house — a tiny cottage I purchased as a single gal in the mid-80s. How do you like the short hair?

I also unearthed the bracelet that was placed on my wrist as a newborn in the late 1950s. Back then, babies wore these low-tech sweet things stating our last name and gender. Hey — shouldn't the beads have been pink?

FYI: the date of our closing has been postponed a bit, so we don't know exactly when we'll be holding the keys to our new home. As soon as we have them in hand, I promise to share it with you.

Susan

We Are Having an Estate Sale This Weekend!

At our moving/estate sale this weekend, we are selling hundreds of items chock full of vintage goodness — kitchenware, dressers, picnic tins, chenille, art pottery vases, flower pots, chairs, tables, hall tree, mixing bowls, oak furniture, baskets, rugs, beds, pine furniture, watering cans, books, framed prints, lace, other textiles, pillows, and luggage — to name a few. Plus, you'll find some terrific gardening books, home decor books, Cd's, teak outdoor furniture... and so much more!

15 Meridian Rd, Rowayton, CT. Friday September 13 and Saturday, September 14, 10am to 4pm both days. 

Hope you can stop by!

Susan

Packing Up 23 Years in 23 Days

As you may know, we put our house on the market at the end of April. With Hannah living in NYC and Jacob half way through college, John and I felt that it's the right time for us to downsize and simplify our lives. Over the past four months, we were pleased that our home received a nice amount of interest, showings, and best of all, offers. Big news... We'll be moving in less than a month. Yay!  

For over two decades, our house has taken very good care of us. It was a wonderful home in which to raise our family, situated in a quiet, private neighborhood of Rowayton, Connecticut. And although we will all dearly miss living here, we look forward to a change of scenery. 

For a while now, I have longed for a snug and cozy cottage. We have made an offer on a house two miles away that is just that. It has great potential and very well may be the cottage of my dreams. So if things work out as planned, we will be moving there in a mere three weeks.

Now we begin the arduous task of packing up 23 years of stuff. To make things a bit easier, we've hired a company to run an estate/moving sale where we'll be selling unneeded furniture and even some of my collections. Lots to do — so you may not hear from me as much in the coming days. However, once we move, you can be sure I'll share our new home, sweet home with you.

Susan

Back to School — Vintage Style

This morning, I noticed the children in my neighborhood waiting for the school bus. Didn't summer go by fast? 

As a nod to this time of year, here are some of the back to school items you'll find in my Etsy shop and SoNo Marketplace booth.

My recent quest for more old typewriters was successful. I found two. This Olympia model is massive and weighs a ton. Doesn't it look like it belongs in Mad Men? I watch that show simply because it is so chock full of wonderful mid-century items.

I love this small, portable Royal typewriter. I tested it to make sure it worked and was pleasantly surprised. It types in italic! Very unusual.

As summer comes to a close, I hope you enjoy the upcoming holiday weekend.

Happy Labor Day!

Susan

From Lunch Box to Lamp Base

Remember these? They are the 59 vintage lunch boxes I was asked to procure for a hotel in Portland. It took me two months this past winter to complete the task. Then in early April, I shipped them clear across the country to Oregon.

At last! I can finally show you what all of them are for. They're part of lamp base assemblages consisting of a lunch box, a vintage book and a porcelain owl. Yesterday, I received this photo of one of them from the project manager.

Isn't it charming? I love how they combined vintage and modern elements.

So if you ever find yourself in Oregon (I hope to visit there myself someday), look for my lunch boxes gracing dozens of lamps in guest rooms at Portland's Governor Hotel.

Susan

My Marx Modern Toy Kitchen Set, Circa 1950

On Tuesday, I spent the afternoon assembling the Marx Modern Toy Kitchen that I discovered last weekend at the Wellfleet Flea Market on Cape Cod. What a find — a 1950 unused toy still in its original box! However, I took a leap of faith when buying it. You see, the seller was almost certain that it was a complete set, but he never looked through the carton to know for sure. 

I began by removing everything from the box and doing a quick inventory. The only real issue was that I was missing a chunk of the instruction sheet. So I had to wing it when putting the set together.

Little by little, I figured it out. Before long, all that was left to do was add the finishing touches — door handles, knobs, faucet, utensil rack, sink basin, dishwasher tub, pots, pans, dishes, ice cube trays, tea kettle, canisters, and flatware. There was even a red plastic turkey and a t-bone steak that I popped in the oven.

Yay! I was thrilled to see that the set was complete and had no missing pieces. With just a bit of rust from being stored in a basement for 63 years, this toy is in remarkable condition for its age. Isn't it adorable? 

Susan

Cape Cod Weekend

John and I got back last night from two glorious days on Cape Cod. Ours good friends Steve and Sue Ellen graciously invited us up to their beautiful home in Eastham. What a picture perfect weekend! 

The weather was sublime, and so were the sunsets.

We took a stroll along the saltwater flats where, at low tide, the sand is rippled and the beach stretches on forever. John was a sweetie to carry me across a deeper patch so that my jeans wouldn't get wet. My hero!

On another beach, we came across two talented "plein air" painters and their model. 

And of course, a trip to the Cape has to include a stop at the Wellfleet Flea Market located on the parking lot of the drive-in movie theater.

While there, I found this 1950s Marx toy kitchen set. Complete in the box, it appears to have never been used and has all of the little appliances, dishes, pans, flatware, and more. I'm going to explore my inner child this week and put the set together. Fun! 

Susan

Typing Away, Vintage Style

Tap, tap, tap, tap, tap, tap...

There is nothing like the sound of an old manual typewriter. Satisfyingly tactile — from rolling in real paper, to the feel of the smooth keys that provide a workout for the fingers — these relics are both fun to use and to keep on display. To me, they are works of vintage machine art. Here are a three beauties that sold in my shops.

The last one I had in my SoNo Marketplace booth (a 1920s Royal, shown above middle left) was a magnet for children. Most of them had never seen a typewriter before so they'd ask their parents questions like, "Where is the screen?" and "How do you change the font?" I enjoyed listening to their parents patiently explain how typewriters work and that they used similar ones when they were in school.

Last Sunday in the New York Times, there was a terrific piece written by Tom Hanks. Apparently, he is quite the fan of vintage typewriters! He has several that he uses on a daily basis to write snail-mail letters, thank-you notes, office memos, to-do lists, and more. He even uses one to keep score at a baseball game! You can read his fabulous article titled "I am TOM. I like to TYPE. Hear That?" at this link. 

Susan

Barbara's Bike

I love it when I acquire a vintage item for my shop that has an interesting back story. The newest item at T-Party Antiques happens to have a wonderful one. 

Barbara, one of my customers, is shown above on Christmas morning in 1952. At the tender age of ten, she still very much believed in Santa Claus. Barb is proudly grinning for the camera because he granted her request for a new bicycle. Having kept this Christmas gift for 61 years, she has decided it's time to sell her beloved childhood bike — a girl's Rollfast model, complete with fenders and a pretty blue and white frame. 

Barbara's bicycle is now for sale in my SoNo Marketplace booth. Loaded with vintage appeal, I added a small basket and fresh flowers to make it over-the-top charming.

That is one sweet ride!

Susan

This Weekend, T-Party Antiques is Having a Sale!

July 26, 27 and 28, SoNo Marketplace is hosting an Indoor Sidewalk Sale that is sure to be a shopper’s paradise. In my sweet little booth, I am offering 20% off of all items over $20.

At the Market, you'll find an nice array of gifts, accessories, art, housewares, clothing, jewelry, food items, and of course —vintage home decor. Hours are Friday and Saturday from 10am to 8pm; Sunday from 10am to 6pm. SoNo Marketplace is located at 314 Wilson Avenue in South Norwalk, CT. Do stop by!

Susan

How Very Nice to Have a Brick and Mortar Shop

I know I've said this before, but I need to say it one more time. I love having a "brick and mortar" again!

Don't get me wrong — I have thoroughly enjoyed selling on Etsy over the past five years, and I will continue to do so. However, I missed being able to interact with my customers face to face. My 8-month-old booth at SoNo Marketplace allows me to do just that. Plus, many of my favorite former tea room patrons come by to chat. Yay!

In my booth, I enjoy displaying and merchandising my vintage finds. And SoNo Marketplace has helped me tap into my creativity in other ways. 

I do all of the writing and photography for EatShopLearn, a blog I designed for them. I also shoot pictures and write posts for their Facebook, where we share all that is new, fun and delicious at the Market. Have a peek at the FB page here. If you enjoy what you see, please let me know by "Liking" SoNo Marketplace. Thanks!  

Several of us at the Market are participating in an indoor sidewalk sale this weekend. Stop by my booth and receive 20% off everything over $20.

Hope to see you!

Susan

A Frog Named Spike

I'd like to introduce you to someone. His name is Spike and he's been a member of our family for a very long time. Isn't he a cutie?

Rewind 16 years . . . When Jacob was four years old, he headed off to his friend Jack's birthday party. When I picked him up at the end of the day, I was surprised to find a very unusual item in Jacob's party favor bag — a baby frog! Yes, Jack's mom thought it would be fun to give all of the party guests pet frogs in small jars of water to take home. Crazy, right? Though Jacob was happy, John and I weren't thrilled to have an instant pet. We didn't even have a proper tank to put it in, let alone frog food. So I quickly did research online and learned that this sudden addition to our family was an aquatic African clawed frog. With that knowledge in hand, we headed out to the pet store to get the appropriate supplies. Once we got our new baby frog set up in his new home on the kitchen counter, Jacob promptly named him Spike. 

Fast forward 16 years . . . Spike is still going strong. Plus, out of all of the partygoers' frogs, he is the only one that is still alive. Why has Spike lived so long? We're not really sure. Perhaps it's because we've always used spring water in his tank. Or maybe it's because we have a cover on the tank so he can't jump out and go exploring. But I believe it is due to the fact that for all these years, Spike's tank has been front and center on our kitchen counter, right in the thick of things. He gets to see us come and go. And I think he likes watching John cook dinner every evening.  :)

Susan

Busy Elephants

The most frequent question visitors to my SoNo Marketplace booth ask is, "Where do you find all of the great things you sell?" I typically respond, "Here, there, and everywhere." I have my favorite thrift stores that rarely disappoint. And as you know, I frequent estate sales — but I'll only go to ones that aren't too fancy. If I'm lucky, they'll be chock full of vintage goodness, like the one last Sunday.

Sometimes with little or no effort, items find their way to me. Nice folks have brought wonderful things right into my shop. Other times, I'll hear from a friend or neighbor who has something they'd like to pass along. The latter is how I acquired the set of charming embroidered towels below.

Yesterday, my neighbor Lynn asked me to stop by her house to look through the vast assortment of linens she inherited. Most were white lace or formal damask textiles — not really what I dabble in or my expertise. But I did my best to help her decide what was worth keeping, what to donate, and what to sell.

Then I spied this set of darling tea towels. Embroidered on cotton sugar sacks by her late mother-in-law, these whimsical relics are beautifully stitched and ridiculously cute. There is a full week's worth: seven towels with a very busy elephant on each.

Aren't they adorable? Lynn was happy to pass these gems along to someone who'd appreciate them. And I was thrilled to take them off her hands.

Thank you Lynn! 

Susan

Pottery Profusion

Yesterday, I went to an unusual estate sale held at a collector's house in Bridgeport, Connecticut. I arrived to find the entire length of the driveway loaded with boxes straight from the attic and basement. The company running the sale didn't even bother to unpack anything. So in 95-degree heat, I rooted through mounds of vintage goodness. It was so hot that before long, I was drenched in sweat. But it was worth it, as I discovered the profusion of pottery, shown below. Talk about one-stop shopping!

Charming, nostalgic, kitschy — I love these estate sale finds. Throughout the rest of the month, I'll be working on listing these relics in my Etsy shop. I'm sure some of them will find their way into my SoNo Marketplace booth, too.

Susan

Good Friends, Food, and Fireworks

It's time once again for our annual July 4th potluck party. Like so many of you across this great country, we'll be gathering with good friends for a backyard picnic. Then we will head down to the beach and watch the fireworks display.  

A patriotic vintage picnic vignette in my sweet little SoNo Marketplace booth.

How are you celebrating today? Whatever your plans may be, I do hope you have a fun filled Independence Day.

Happy Birthday America! 

Susan

Getting Down to Business: Part Three

As promised, here is the final post about what's new in my online and brick and mortar shops. See anything you like?

I'm always thrilled when I find original Meyercord decals. Back in the 1940s and 50s, ladies had hundreds of decal designs to choose from, in loads of styles, colors and sizes. They used them on kitchen cabinets, glassware, canisters, bread boxes, bathroom walls, dinette sets, nursery furniture---you name it. 

In two short minutes, these decals, offered for sale in my Etsy shop, can still add vintage appeal to a whole host of household items. 

One final item, straight from my personal collection — a fabulous child-size doll cabinet. Isn't it a beauty? Oh, how I love miniature furniture!

Susan

Getting Down to Business: Part Two

For your viewing pleasure, here is a peek at more of my latest finds . . .

My goal for the week is to get these relics listed on Etsy and displayed in my SoNo Marketplace booth, below. 

I figure, with the sweltering temperatures we are having this week, I'll have very few distractions. So getting down to business in my air-conditioned studio is where I'll be for the next few days. Wish you could stop by for a glass of iced tea!

Stay cool — and stay tuned for even more vintage goodness in "Part Three" next time.

Susan

Getting Down to Business: Part One

Now that I'm back from vacation, I have decided it's about time I got down to business. So I've spent the last week photographing my latest finds. Some of these relics came from the lovely Martha's Vineyard; others from a favorite antique mall in Massachusetts that I like to stop at on our way home. And last week, I went to an estate sale at a house stuffed to the gills with things from the 1930s and 1940s — definitely hoarder status!

Here is a peek at what will be making an appearance in my Etsy shop and SoNo Marketplace booth soon. With so much to show you, I'll be revealing my discoveries in three parts.

The kitschiest item I found is the clown pin cushion, above. Pull out his red nose to reveal a tape measure. So wacky.

See anything here that catches your eye? If so, feel free to leave a comment on this post or email me at info@tpartyantiques.com. If you want to purchase something, I will gladly get back to you with more information and the item's price. And best of all, you just might save me the effort of doing the listing or schlepping the item to SoNo. Don't forget to check out my next two posts for more vintage goodies.

Happy summer to you!

Susan

Just Under the Brooklyn Bridge

I had a most enjoyable — and unusual — experience last weekend. For my birthday a couple of weeks ago, John gave me two tickets to Bargemusic, New York City's floating concert hall. 

This concert venue is a 100-foot-long renovated steel barge that has been turned into an intimate wood-paneled room. Excellent acoustics, lovely views of lower Manhattan, and the gentle sway of the East River made this chamber music concert quite memorable.

The 1899 barge, now moored at the foot of the iconic Brooklyn Bridge, once carried sacks of coffee for the Erie Lackawanna railroad. Today, its cargo is beautiful music.

Susan

Hiking the Jewel of Martha's Vineyard

Now matter how many times we visit Martha's Vineyard, we always find new things to do, like our hike last week through Menemsha Hill Reservation.

Known as the jewel of Martha's Vineyard, Menemsha Hills Reservation is home to Prospect Hill, the second highest peak on the island. 

Trails loop around low lying wetlands, home to red maple, cinquefoil, beech and black cherry trees, before giving way to brushy bushes and grasses. 

The longest trail guided us to a remote beach. 

Here cool breezes blow from Vineyard Sound and a path leads down to the rocky beach below with commanding views of Menemsha Village and the Elizabeth Islands.

On a picture perfect June morning, we truly enjoyed our 3-mile hike.

And even though John and I have gone to the island together almost every year for the past 28 years, we never grow tired of it.

Susan

A Collection of Cottages

Cozy, quaint, cute. What more can I say about the cottages of the Martha's Vineyard Camp Meeting Association? Except that I adore them! Every year, I look forward to taking a stroll with my family through this historic community. 

Embellished with gingerbread trim and painted in every color of the rainbow, there are over 300 of these charming homes in Oak Bluffs. Aren't they the sweetest? 

Susan

Early June on Martha's Vineyard

For your viewing pleasure... a few quick pics from our new rental house on MV. 

We thought we'd try something a little different this year and head to the Vineyard in early summer. We've discovered that it's a great time to be here — no crowds, lots of parking, easy to get movie tickets and dinner reservations, and glorious weather.  :)

Gosh, how we love it here. 

Susan

Sky, Sand, and Sea

My view right now at State Beach, Martha's Vineyard. Heavenly!

Susan

Red, White and Blue Days

Don't you just love this time of year? I do! It's that wonderful span of time from Memorial Day until Labor Day when the livin' is easy. 

It is also the time to get out the red, white and blue and show some pride in America. 

I am so grateful to all those who have served and are in service to our great country. Happy Memorial Day! 

Susan

Québec City, Revisited

To celebrate our silver wedding anniversary last week, John and I traveled to Québec City, the place where we spent our honeymoon twenty-five years ago. Back then, we stayed at a tiny inn called Manoir Ste. Geneviève. 

We were so happy to see that it is still around and asked a friendly Québecer to take a picture of us in front of it. Manoir Ste. Geneviève is located on a small park right across from Québec's most famous building, Le Château Frontenac (above left). Back then, John and I looked wistfully across the way and promised each other that if we ever returned, that's where we would stay. And sure enough, this time we stayed on the top floor in a room overlooking the Saint Lawrence River, where I found a bouquet of roses from John waiting there for me. 

I just love Québec City's narrow cobblestone streets lined with century-old buildings. Chock full of European charm and easily walkable, everywhere you look, you'll find history, beautiful architecture, quaint shops, and most of all, fine French dining.

On our last night in Québec, we went to a restaurant called Le Saint Amour. We dined there while on our honeymoon in 1988, and I even saved the matchbox, which is a bit battered now, as a memento of the meal. Once again, we were thrilled to see that the place is still in business. Plus, the food was as delicious as we remembered.

I must share a lovely little coincidence with you… Upon arriving in Québec City, we went to a bistro near our hotel for lunch. As we walked in, John and I heard what was playing over the restaurant's speakers and looked at each other in amazement. It was our wedding song, the first one we danced to as a married couple. Wow! What are the odds of that?  :)

Susan

25 Years of Wedded Bliss

On this day twenty-five years ago, I married my commuter love, the handsome man I spotted across a crowded train. It most certainly was love at first sight. However, it took two months of riding the same train for us to finally meet. 

Once we did, little did I know that I had just met a very special gentleman — someone with the kindest heart — the type of person you can always count on to be there for you. I am so fortunate to have the honor of sharing my life with him. 

Happy 25th Anniversary to my dear husband John, the one true love of my life.

Susan

Celebrating Motherhood

Motherhood is certainly one of the most difficult jobs around, but it is also, by far, the most rewarding and fun. 

I treasure each and every moment with my two children and feel so blessed to have them in my life.

Here's to motherhood! Wishing you the very happiest Mother's Day.

Susan

My Sweet Little Etsy Shop

It has been 5+ years since I opened my Etsy shop. I am proud to say that, to date, I've had over 1,200 sales. However, that didn't happen overnight. It has been a process. For instance, it took me a while to figure out the best way to photograph my items as well as how to write good descriptions. I also spent time establishing my shop's polices so that patrons feel confident shopping with me. I strive to offer the very best customer service, because when it comes right down to it, a patron's satisfaction is my top priority. When a package from T-Party Antiques is waiting on their doorstep, I want them to be surprised at how quickly it arrived, impressed with the care that was taken in getting it to them safely, and thrilled at how chock full of vintage goodness it is.

In case you haven't stopped in for a while, here is a peek at what I currently have available for sale in my sweet little Etsy shop:

Books & Booklets

Home Decor & Housewares

Paper Ephemera

Pottery, China & Glass

Spiral Bound Journals
Textiles & Tablecloths

Tins & Trays

Toys, Games & Playtime

Vintage Miscellany

My shop is always changing as I find more vintage goods with the right vibe — the criteria being nostalgic, fun, whimsical items that make people smile. So check back, because there will be many more items making an appearance in my Etsy shop soon.

Susan

Toleware Trays, Trinket Boxes, and Mother's Day at SoNo Marketplace

Just in at my T-Party Antiques booth at SoNo Marketplace — vintage toleware trays and sparkly trinket boxes! I put this vignette together with Mom in mind. Wouldn't these pretty things make nice Mother's Day gifts?

These trays are from my personal collection. I figure, if and/or when we sell our house, we'll be moving to a much smaller place. So I'm already starting to share many of the vintage goodies I've collected over the years. 

At SoNo Marketplace, we are gearing up for Mom's Day. Along with a delicious brunch on Satuday and Sunday, we are selling $1 raffle tickets for a fabulous gift basket worth over $600. Plus, we are offering 20% off in our booths for the entire weekend.

SoNo Marketplace is located at 314 Wilson Avenue in South Norwalk, CT. This week, the merchant shops will be open on Thursday from 11am to 6 pm, and Friday through Sunday from 10am to 6 pm. Hope to see you there!

Susan

Studio Sweet Studio

Things have been a bit hectic here lately, so I apologize for not posting as often as I'd like. You see, we put our house on the market last week and we've been working hard to get it ready. As you may know, John and I have been talking about selling our house for a while now. With our daughter's move to the city and our son half way through college, it finally felt like the right time to downsize. And although I am looking forward to finding a new, smaller home, there is one room that I will dearly miss — my beloved studio.

My studio is the one room in our house that we added in 1991. Back then, I had a heavy work load as a graphic designer. I needed a space that was quiet with a separate entrance so that I could work and meet with clients and printers without disturbing our growing family. Now I use the room as a sewing and craft space, to run my Etsy business, and to write this blog. It has served me well for the past 22 years.

You have heard me go on about how important it is to have a space of your own, a quiet place to create and reflect on life. My studio has been just that. Filled with all of my favorite things, it has been a constant source of inspiration. Spending time here has made me happy each and every day. 

Now my hope is that someone new will feel the same way. So wish us luck! Let's hope a lovely family will want to raise their children in the home that has sheltered us so well for over two decades.

Susan

Stop By, Say Hello, and Save 10%

Just a quick reminder to local shoppers... My Spring Sale is still underway at T-Party's sweet little brick and mortar booth at SoNo Marketplace. Located at 314 Wilson Avenue in South Norwalk, CT, we are open Fridays, Saturdays and Sundays from 10am to 6pm. Please note that my 10% off sale runs through April 28.

You can also receive the discount when you shop at T-Party's Etsy shop. On items over $20, use the coupon code WELCOMESPRING at checkout.

Susan

"We live on a planet and it's very unpredictable."

After a hurricane or a similar wacky weather event, I often remark, "We live on a planet and it's very unpredictable." I've been saying this to my family for years, so when they hear me utter it, they usually roll their eyes. But if nothing else, my comment helps us to remember that this generous planet we live on is all we've got. Therefore, my family and I try our very best to go easy on dear old Mother Earth and treat her with the respect she deserves. I'm sure you do, too.

Happy Earth Day!

Susan

My $5 Vintage Pottery Lamp

I stopped by the local thrift shop the other day. As usual, I failed to walk out empty handed. A five-dollar vintage pottery lamp in a sunny shade of yellow came home with me. Love the lamp — not so crazy about its plain white lamp shade. Time for a little upcycling project...

I decided to transform the shade using a flower and leaf patterned paper with a bark cloth vibe. This paper is actually a vintage curtain panel. Did you know that back in the 1940s and 50s, they manufactured draperies for the home out of paper? Seriously. 

Within 30 minutes, a lovely decoupaged shade was sitting atop my new/old lamp. Doesn't it look sweet?

I have used this paper curtain for other crafty pursuits. Back in 2009, it helped to elevate a black domed lunch box that I found at the very same thrift store.

And last year at the same shop, I discovered an old lighted makeup case. Its white vinyl, faux alligator exterior had seen better days. The paper and more Mod Podge saved the day.

Sadly, I have just about used up the curtain panel. I must keep my eye out for more as they are perfect for decoupage projects.

That's it for now. Wishing you all a happy and safe weekend.

Susan

Collecting Toy Sewing Machines from the 1940s

Of all of the things I sell in my Etsy shop, there is one item that is by far the most popular — toy sewing machines from the 1940s.

Below are some of the ones that have come and gone in my shop. Made to last, these relics were produced post WWII in Berlin Germany's U.S. Zone. 

I am partial to ones made by Kayanee that have flower decals. But they are getting harder to find.

Child sewing, c. 1945. Photo by Lambert/Getty Image

I'm always pleased when these charming toys find happy new homes. Of course, I do have a couple that are keepers on display in my studio's sewing corner.

My latest discovery is the toy sewing machine shown below. It has the cutest decal.

This Artcraft model, along with a blue near mint Kayanee, will be making an appearance in my Etsy shop sometime this week. I also have several other vintage items that need to be listed. I better get started! 

Susan

Raised Expectations

What a beautiful spring day — sunny and warm, perfect for a bike ride. I love pedaling around my coastal community. However, these days what I pass while riding my bicycle is rather unusual.

Homes that sit particularly low in flood prone areas are being raised, sometimes as much as a full story. And the two houses pictured here are just the beginning. I noticed at least six more that are being prepped for elevation. 

These raised structures now loom over their neighboring houses. Unfortunately, Hurricane Sandy has forever changed the integrity of ours and so many other waterfront communities. 

Susan

It's a Welcome Spring Sale at T-Party Antiques

Celebrate Spring! Get 10% off any item over $20. Here's where to shop at T-Party...

Online on Etsy at tparty.etsy.com. To receive the discount, use the coupon code WELCOMESPRING at checkout.

Or bring in this coupon when you visit T-Party Antiques at SoNo Marketplace, 314 Wilson Avenue, South Norwalk, CT. Open Fridays, Saturdays and Sundays 10am to 6pm.

Happy shopping!

Susan

59 Lunch Boxes: Mission Accomplished!

I did it! After two months of searching on eBay and Etsy, I finally have 59 lunch boxes.

As you may know, I was hired to procure these lunch boxes for a new hotel in Oregon. Curious as to how they will be used, I finally found out that they'll be part of assemblages consisting of a lunch box, a vintage book, and a porcelain owl on top of a lamp base. Interesting! The project manager promises me a photo when they're done.

Now it's time to pack up these relics and ship them across the country to Portland. What a fun project this has been. I love a good challenge.

Susan

Four Little Kittens, Possibly the Cutest Book Ever?

There is one more thing I'd like to share with you that I found at that chock-full-of-books estate sale. This 1934 edition of Four Little Kittens.

This adorable children's book, written and photographed by Harry Whittier Frees, tells the story of Buzz, Fuzz, Suzz and Agamemnon, four cats who dress and act a lot like real kids. They go to school, play, do chores, watch movies, and even prepare for their mother's birthday by baking her a catnip cake and catching her a mouse as a gift.

Pretty cute, right? Mr. Frees dedicated the book to his feline models. He also included this note: These unusual photographs of real kittens were made possible only by patient, unfailing kindness on the part of the photographer at all times. Let's hope so. Quite frankly, I'm amazed that cats would tolerate wearing clothes and posing for pictures. Perhaps Harry was actually an expert taxidermist? What do you think?

Susan

What's New at T-Party Antiques?

I am always changing things up in my T-Party Antiques booth at SoNo Marketplace. Gotta keep it fresh!

Spring has sprung, so I put together this vignette of garden related items.

I am now stocking the Heavens to Betsy line of notecards, journals, magnetic notepads and gift enclosures. Created by my friend Betsy Goodenough, they feature antique engravings and woodcuts printed on 100% recycled paper. Don't they have the perfect vintage vibe for my booth? Love 'em! 

Last week, I was able to zip over to an estate sale. Lucky me — it had a basement full of antique books with beautiful cover art and typography. They really appeal to the graphic designer in me. 

Sorry so brief today. We are running out to catch the train into NYC for a seder with our extended family. Happy Passover!

Susan

My Well-Dressed Bicycle

On this first day of spring, I dusted off my bicycle and headed to the market in town. I have missed riding my bike these last few months and it felt good to be in the saddle once again. However, at around 40 degrees, it was a chilly ride. At least the sun was out and my bicycle was looking good decked out in its new "dress guard."

What is a dress guard? Made from crochet yarn, it partially surrounds the rear wheel of a bicycle to prevent a coat or long skirt from getting sucked up in the spokes. Dress guards can withstand all sorts of weather conditions. After a rainy day, the crochet work will dry like laundry on the line. 

Dress guards are certainly useful, but I have to admit, I wanted one simply because they are so pretty. 

I planned to purchase a dress guard from Simeli, a Dutch company that sells lovely ones in an array of colors. Instead, I found Amy on Etsy. With a shop featuring accessories for bicycles and cyclists, she kindly offered to make one for me. We found the crochet pattern from Dorien, another Etsian, at this link. 

I love my bike's snazzy new dress guard. Thank you, Amy!

Susan

My Vintage Lunch Box Quest

I am making steady progress in my search for 59 vintage lunch boxes for a hotel in Portland, Oregon. So far, I have amassed 44. And as you can see, they are taking over my Hoosier cabinet.

Everyone has been asking how theses lunch boxes will ultimately be used. At this point, I really don't know. I imagine them in a display of some sort or resting inside individual cubbies together on a wall. I think that would look quite striking, don't you?

Just 15 more to go!

Susan

News flash! I just heard from the project manager as to how these boxes will be used. She said they will be creating a collection of assemblages consisting of a lunchbox, a vintage book, and a porcelain owl on top of a lamp base. I can't quite picture what she means, but she promises me a photo when they are done.