Mom Wald's Place

Spring has Sprung in My Heart

2012-02-02T12:03:00.001-06:00

It may be frosty outside, but it's spring inside! Go ahead and just ask me how I am. Go ahead, really. You know why? Just so that I can say I am "peachy", "ducky", and "spectacular"!

I know, I know, it's about BLOOMIN' TIME!

No more injuries, sickness, court cases, construction jobs, or surgeries. Woohoo!

It gets even BETTER. Are you ready?

I can sew a bit by hand, embroider, cut fabric with a rotary cutter, use the sewing machine, use the camera, and DRIVE. Did I mention embroider?! No crocheting yet, but I am teaching myself to needle tat.

I am hoping, wishing, and praying that a road trip to "Dear D's" is in the near future. Hint, hint, wink, wink.

Oh, and I can now cook, and bake, aaaannd, even went thrifting.

It's all just so wonderful...sniff. I could just hug you all. We're finally getting out and seeing our friends hereabouts.

I am SOOOO ready for spring! I am going to try my best to keep this Primrose alive, so that it can be planted in the garden and come back every year.

Does anyone know who made my new vintage bowl? It's a mystery to me, but it's the perfect size for my little bit of early spring.

May blessings spring up for you too! Thank you bloggy friends for staying with me during these dark days, and lifting my spirits.

Hey, it's Thursday, and my bowl is vintage. That means I can join Vintage Thingy Thursday! This just keeps getting better and better.

I am loving pink for February so much I even rearranged my shop, so that the first page is pink. Red is okay, but February means pink to me.

Hedgie Surprise and a Surprise for Me

2012-01-31T19:30:00.000-06:00

Have you met Hedgie? He is an adorable fellow. He is creation of Jan Brett who does the most wonderful children's books. She even has a great website with lots of activities and fabulous printables. When the kids were younger it was a great resource for homeschooling, and I still use it for library story times.

My sister remembered how much I love Hedgie, and sent me a nifty set for Christmas. First there is the "Hedgie's Surprise" book.

Jan Brett's books are full of charming details and beautiful illustrations, like borders on the pages of this book that give you clues about the story. I love her paintings that look like Norwegian Redwork.

With it was this charming hedgehog embroidery pattern by penguin & fish. She was so sweet that she even included this polka dotted fat quarter to embroider him onto. How thoughtful!

Imagine my surprise when my online friend BookWormBethie had this fat quarter as part of her stash to clear out. It is perfect! Sure, I could have found hedgehog fabric, but I like this piece with his forest friends. It even has red dots to go with the background fabric!

Finally, polka dots to share for Dotty Hop Day at Cutie Pie Cottage! Holly always has the most fun polka dot things.

With the Redwork pictures and the red dots, I shall definitely have to use red in whatever I make with my treasures. It also means I have something to share for Rednesday. Yay!

Tea with Jane Austen and Me

2012-01-29T19:57:00.000-06:00

A day just seems to go better when I can have a sunny moment to collect myself. If there is tasty tea and muffins warm from the oven, all the better. These muffins are banana and raisin ones, because sometimes simple is better.

My creamer is Johnson Brother's Nordic. I love the tree of life design. The other day I thrifted a saucer forgetting that I already had a bread and butter in this pattern on the wall. Oh well, another blue and white for the stack! It is a much loved pattern having started production in 1979 and not discontinued until 1996.

The muffin plate is Finlandia by Churchill. It is one of their newer patterns having run from 1995 to 2007.

I was inspired to pull out some of my blues today by one of my favorite books Tea with Jane Austen. It was written in 2004 by Kim Wilson, and is chuck full of interesting little tidbits about tea time in the Regency Era and Jane's books in particular.

This blue and white cup is a newer one by Churchill. I was lucky to thrift four cup and saucer sets. It is their Peony style, which I cannot find any additional information on other than it has sadly been discontinued. One might wonder why it is called peony when the flowers on it are roses. It still has a nice feel to it, and makes tea time just a little bit better.

I am linking up to these delightful Tuesday Tea Parties when they are posted.

Tuesday Cuppa Tea

Tea Time Tuesday at Rose Chintz Cottage

Tea Cup Tuesday

And some vintage fun too!
Knick of Time Tuesday

Toile Be or not Toile Be

2012-01-25T10:29:00.001-06:00

2 Vintage Avon Toile Demitasse

I am a thrilled to have been a guest over at Fairy Filigree. She has a lovely post about toile today. She was kind enough to feature the treasury I did Toile Be or not Toile Be.

I warn you though, you will be tempted to while away the day perusing her blog.

Yellow Roses for Tea Time Tuesday

2012-01-23T15:30:00.000-06:00

Tea Time Tuesdays at Rose Chintz Cottage is celebrating it's Second Anniversary with a rose theme this week.

Here is a rose tea cup that is special to me, because it always reminds me of the two greatest men in my life. You may remember when I told you Hubby gave it to me here. Yellow roses are my father's favorite, and every time one of us girls had a baby he would send us a dozen. He is a truck driver, and it was special to know he was thinking of us even though he was far away.

In the back of this photo is the Fannie May Heart Chocolate Tin that he brought me when our first was born. The chocolates went quickly, but I have kept the tin all of these years. It holds my stickers.

Hubby surprised me with a bouquet of yellow spray roses the other evening. He did not even know I was planning to photograph my yellow rose tea cup. What perfect timing. He was trying to give me a bit of sunshine for these gray January days. It worked more than he thought, because the next morning was bright and sunny.

We once had a dear elderly neighbor who was like a grandmother to us. She and her husband always lived modestly, and had lived in the little house next to us for decades. When she finally had to go move in with her daughter she gave me four teaspoons that were special to her. They were samples from Oneida way back when. Each one is different.

There are two modern spoons and two old fashioned ones. I use them with my tea, and can pick them to match my mood. Here are the two that have roses. We have lost touch over the years, but I remember her fondly every time I use them.

I am thrilled to be joining Sandi for her Tea Time Tuesday Anniversary with my rose memories.

Let's visit these fun Tea Parties too!
Tuesday Cuppa Tea
Tea Cup Tuesday

Monday...

2012-01-23T08:17:00.000-06:00

Aida by Rosenthal - full set available

Hubby says I have blogged so much, that I have burned out the power supply for my laptop. Whatever the reason, all of my nice new photos are stuck inside it until the new power supply arrives. I am so glad that I was excited about Tuesday's Tea Cup post and did it ahead.

Another sad note is that the Japan Quilt Auction did not go well. I shall be contacting all of you wonderful contributors to vote on the next step.

Today's lovely piece is from a large set of cream soups in the shop called "Aida" made by Rosenthal in Bavaria. You may remember them from when I first found them here. Today is gray and drab outside, so I wanted a bit of sunshiney prettiness to share with you.

Tuesday's Tea Cup post is actually scheduled to publish this afternoon, so that I would have time to do the Linky things on the blog parties. See you later!

Machine Quilting Done Right on the Quilt for Japan

2012-01-20T08:44:00.000-06:00

Today I am highlighting the terrific quilting job that P. did on the Embroidered Veggie Market Quilt for Japan.

Not only did she do a great job, but she has inspired me to practice machine quilting. The photos for today are pieces that I embroidered for the quilt. They show me exactly how much the quilting has enriched the work that was already put into the block.

She did not say, but it must have taken quite a bit of time to do the stitching on the embroidered blocks. There is just the right amount of stitching inside the picture to give it stability. P. even did it in such a way that it highlights the picture instead of detracting from it. She is a true artist.

The meandering quilting used on the quilt is commonly called stippling. While it looks simple, it takes a good eye to get it evenly spaced and skill to keep the stitching even.

P. was smart enough and generous enough to substitute the batting I sent along with the quilt for a better type, because it would quilt and lay better. It is wonderful working with someone who pays attention to details.

The batting is an 80 Cotton / 20 Polyester mix. At the Rock Valley Quilter's Guild meeting the other evening some of the members were discussing how much they preferred that type of batting. Way to go P.!

To learn more from Dear P. about how to do quilting right make sure to visit her blog The Way I Sew It.

On a different note, one of my quilting friends is a retired seamstress. Although she likes scrappy quilts she cannot make them herself, because of all the years of not mixing prints and patterns. We like to tease each other, because we are such opposites.

The way the variety of fruit and veggie prints came together in this quilt is quite wonderful. There is everything from apples to oranges, and pickles to tomatoes! They are all framed with a gingham looking border that is really printed quilting cotton.

Opening up the quilt to sneak a few photos really brightened up our day!

Vintage Binding and Pixlr Fun

2012-01-18T11:53:00.000-06:00

I've been trying some new things. First, Pixlr, an online photo editing program popular for its vintage effects, and second, Pinterest. I would recommend both just for the plain fun of it.

Here are some vintage spools of binding that I am getting ready for the shop. They were my first experiments on Pixlr. Most of the vintage effects make the photos darker, and I prefer lighter ones. There are still a lot of options. I just have to be more creative.

The really hard decision is how many spools to sell, and how many to keep!

First Embroidery of 2012

2012-01-16T07:24:00.000-06:00

Ta Da! Since I had become so adept at straight stitching one handed, I thought I would try backstitching the January piece for the New Embroidery with Vintage Patterns 2012 Quilty Stitch Along. It is not how I would normally embroider, but it is better than falling behind. Besides, it will be a fair representation of January this year.

This "Stitchy Quilt Along" is going to go all year with the goal of quilting our pieces together in the end. I have wanted to do a quilt with a variety of vintage basket embroidery patterns for quite awhile. I will be making a table runner for our coffee table with these.

Should I use the depression era retro prints I've been collecting slowly to frame them? Decisions, decisions...

(Heeeyy, did you notice? I can operate the camera now too!)

Veggie Market Quilt Auction starts TODAY

2012-01-15T07:14:00.000-06:00

TODAY is the day the auction starts! We are live. Woohoo!

***Veggie Market Quilt for Japan Earthquake Relief Auction HERE***

Stitching, Finally!

2012-01-14T08:01:00.000-06:00

My son loves me.

How do I know this? Because he figured out a way for me to stitch while my thumb was out of commission. He's a technically minded sort of fellow. He figured that with one hand being completely functional, and me being ambidextrous, I should be able stitch with it as long as something was holding the fabric.

All I had to do was use a small hoop, and prop it with my brace while I stitched with the other hand. Cutting the thread was a bit of a challenge, but where there is a will there is a way.

This is the piece he set me up with. It is only about the size of a half sheet of paper. The stitched rows are only about a sixteenth of an inch apart. The wee frogs are the size of quarters, nickels, and dimes.

Don't tell, but this will probably have to be quilted into something for him.

This piece is leftover fabric from a coffee table runner. It is about the size of a fat quarter. This time the rows are about an eighth of an inch apart.

I believe I shall make something for the living room with it. I love having a variety of linens to move about and keep the house fresh looking.

This is the last one, and the brace is gone. I can use the other fingers, which I could not with it. No gripping, I but it feels like such freedom.

It is a fat quarter that I purchased with my mother in mind.

This one was more of a challenge, because some of the birds are close together. The lines are about a quarter of an inch apart, so that they're in better proportion with the larger graphics.

I guess you know what I will be doing as soon as I can stitch two fabrics together, finishing these three projects.

My son loves me, because he helped me keep my sanity!

Veggie Quilt for Japan Explained

2012-01-13T06:24:00.000-06:00

TodayI would like to take some time to explain the VeggieMarket Quilt for Japan Relief Project for those who are new to myplace.

Likemany others I would have really liked to be able to hop a plane toJapan to help people immediately after the earthquake last March, or better yet,brought some Japanese people to the U.S.A. to share our home. Neitherof those options was available, nor was donating a million dollars tofly over supplies.

Whatis a crafty gal to do besides helping with local donations andregular praying? Why, gather her friends to create a quilt toauction, that's what! As I put thisidea out to my friends, online and here at home, the project grew. The quilt contains fabric and embroidery from all over the UnitedStates, and even Canada and Belgium.

Thequilt will be auctioned on Ebay by "mom.wald" the third week ofJanuary, the 15^ththrough the 21^st ,when we are all longing for our vegetable gardens that lie sleepingunder the snow.

Proceedsfrom the auction will benefit ongoing earthquake relief through theGlobal GivingGroup. To find out more about the GlobalGivingGroup visit Global Giving.

Thisquilt is a compilation of donated, new, fruit and vegetable themedembroideries and fabrics. The embroidered squares are twelve inchesacross. The fruit and veggie fabrics are six inch squares piecedinto twelve inch four patch blocks.

Altogether it measures 54inches wide and 74 inches long and weighs five pounds making it agenerous lap quilt or large hanging. Our quilter used a nice compactbatting of 80% cotton / 20% polyester and nice tight stippling, so it would even make a beautifultable topper.

Thereis wonderful attention to detailing in the quilting, such as steam ina little embroidered pot.

Fora history of the making of the quilt visitmy place here. You will find a collection of update posts detailing the variousembroideries and fabrics.

VisitingVeggie Market Quilt for Japan Page will take you directly to a page here at my place dedicated entirely to the quilt.

Thetheme of the quilt was inspired by the vintage anthromorphiccollectibles produced in Japan in the 50's and 60's, vintageembroidery patterns, and my love of Japanese food which is chuckfull of vegetables.

Don'tknow what "anthromorphic" is, they are the cute creaturesthat are items such as flowers and fruits with faces. For someexcellent examples visit Cathygio's collection atCathygio on Flickr.

Aselection of vintage fruit and veggie patterns that were available tochose from can be found here,Vintage Veggie Patterns Gallery .

Ifyou have any questions please feel free to contact me atmomwaldsplace@gmail.com.

Abig Thank You to P over at The Way I Sew ItIt for not only doing beautiful quilting on it, but for these great photos.

Best Sister in the WORLD

2012-01-12T12:08:00.000-06:00

Sorry, I get to have the best sister. You thought you had the best one, but sorry. The mailman just tramped up the hill through the snow to bring me a care package from "The Greatest Sister in the Whole World".

You all knew I had injuries I was impatiently waiting to recover from, but what you didn't know is that we've also had pneumonia and strep-throat in the house. She did, and she loves me, awwww.

(Did you notice the February 1991 and January 2001 Victoria Magazines? I'm in heaven.)

Another reason this is so great. When I swing the camera up this is what you see. Snow, blech.

I could not wait to say "thank you", so this is my second post for today.

Art Deco Dish Mystery for Vintage Thingy Thursday

2012-01-12T08:00:00.000-06:00

Here I am for Vintage Thingy Thursday with a question, two questions really. First, is it okay if the vintage thingy is not mine? Hope so! Second, and more importantly, does anyone know who made this set of vintage Art Deco Dishes?

Did you guess it wasn't my table? You are right, too neat, no floral prints, and only one cut up piece of toast!

Again it is Hercule Poirot from Agatha Christie. He is most particular, and so are his set designers. I often put him on for company while I am working on the computer. Each time I try to spy something I haven't noticed before. No, I'm not training to be a detective, and yes, I really am working. I simply adore all of the special touches they use on the shows.

What do you think? The book from last week had English makers, and they were not in there. Surely, they did not have every single piece, but I am looking for clues. It would be so funny if they were Belgian, because Mr. Poirot is Belgian. I've seen Bavarian china, though never Belgian. French perhaps?

A good mystery, good dishes, a mystery about dishes, I love this!

I wonder if anyone else will have a mystery at Vintage Thingy Thursday. Let's go see!

Quilted with Red for Rednesday

2012-01-10T19:09:00.000-06:00

Yes, again thanks to Dear D, I can participate in Rednesday. Thanks D! I felt honored to get to help her this past autumn with a very special quilting project.

She was lucky to inherit enough quilt tops from a great grandmother to be able to finish one for each of her children this Christmas. Each of the tops is in this "Around the World" pattern, and one is even hand-stitched.

It was fun to listen to her reminisce about the vintage fabrics in each one. Dear D is fortunate enough to remember her grandmother wearing colorful pantsuits out of many of these fabrics. We shared a few laughs, because I had an aunt who had the same sense of style.

Polyester or not, I would still love to have some of that red and white striped fabric. It would be so very perfect for Christmas projects.

Due to a variety of issues, I have been stuck here in my place for over a month. As much as I love home, I would love to be helping D move into her new one. Thoughts and prayers are with you Luv!

Rednesday, just for the fun of it!

Crochet Pads for Vintage Oven Glass

2012-01-10T13:04:00.000-06:00

Here I am bemoaning the fact that I cannot crochet, and I forgot to show you one of the last things I did do. Miss Fire King 9 x 9 Casserole is modeling one of the three pads I made just for her and her vintage oven glass friends.

We have metal trivets that we use for hot items, but whenever one of the oven glass pieces slides a bit on them I get nervous.

These double thickness pads took all of my worries away. They were an experiment, and will probably last for decades. I may never have to make any again.

Then again, waiting for this bum thumb to let me crochet again makes it feel as I may never crochet again at all. I have new yarn waiting, agggghh!

Veggie Market for Japan Quilt Update

2012-01-09T08:00:00.000-06:00

Welcome to my place as we get closer to auctioning the Veggie Market Quilt for Japan. If you are new go ahead and click the button over there on the right or the highlighted name in here to see what we are so excited about . It's wonderful!

Auctioningfor charity is a new venture for me, so I decided to keep it supersimple and use ebay. Simple for me and simple for people who wantit, win win!

Theprogram at ebay for charitable auctions is called Ebay Giving Works. To read more about it visit.http://www.ebaygivingworks.com/termsconditions.html

Thecompany that Ebay uses for their program is Mission Fish, and theycan be visited here,https://www.missionfish.org/about-us/us_about-us.html.

Thecharitable group that our donation will be going to is Global Giving. They are at http://www.globalgiving.org/. The project we are donating to is the "Japan Earthquake andTsunami Relief Fund".

Thisis so very exciting!

Art Deco Books to Inspire

2012-01-07T12:31:00.002-06:00

Just look at all of the goodies on the front of this book! It is Popular Art Deco: Depression Era Style and Design by Robert Heide and John Gilman. This book is chuck full of amazing Art Deco items.

It has wonderful sections like home living, putting on the Ritz, and Florida style.

Even Hubby wants a turn with the book before it is returned to the library!

Here is another fabulous Art Deco book that my son was kind enough to bring home from the library for me this week. What a guy!

It is Art Deco Tableware by Judy Spours. This book has a full page photo about every other page or so of the most fabulous Art Deco tableware pieces. It provides an easy to understand history of the different British Domestic Ceramics between 1925 and 1939.

These two books inspired me to spiff up the blog. The header and border buttons are Art Deco clip art pieces from the Dover Publishing Company. I used more homey ones, because that's what my place is like.

Even a Vintage Car at My Place

2012-01-06T11:09:00.000-06:00

Before I even get started about why I have a vintage car here at my place, I first have to send you over to Just a Car Guy. He makes me think I need to introduce my dad to blogging, because he would love this guy's blog.

Here is the post about this 66 Ford Custom 500. It took me awhile to find just the right car on Google, but here it is. Both photos are his, and he has another of the engine.

We're not concerned about the engine today, nope.

Guess who got me to put a classic car on my blog, P. that's who! Her post from yesterday at The Way I Sew It. Reminded me of a lesson Hubby inadvertently taught me the first year we were married.

First, let me say this was a classic car when we married, I am NOT that old.

Anyways, Hubby sends me off to the auto-parts store with the warning that the guys wouldn't believe me it was a car, and would insist it was a pickup. He told me to not get bothered, to simply offer to take them to see it in the parking lot.

Sure enough that is what happened. The insisted it was the truck, or that instead of a Custom I meant a Galaxy. (Just a Car Guy even mentions it in his blog post!) Now I'm no car genius, but even the little girlie I was back then could read the plate on the side of the car, duh.

What Hubby taught me without meaning to is to not get flustered with moronic sales clerks. There are a number of reasons why they can be mistaken, although there is never a reason to be rude. Having been a sales clerk myself since the car story, it also helped me provide better customer service.

Thankfully, I have never had to ask anyone again if they wanted to "step outside to settle something". ;)

Japan Quilt Auction Prepping

2012-01-03T20:29:00.000-06:00

Aha,it is January! It will soon be time to auction the VeggieMarket Quilt for Japan Relief.

Iam typing up the listing and creating some graphics to share. Ifanyone out there is handy with graphics and such. Feel free to giveme a holler. I need all the help I can get.

Ihave decided to do promoting only online. If you want to design someposters and fliers to print feel free to do so. It would be great ifyou shared them, so others could use them too. Besides, we just want to seewhat you creative folks are up to! Make sure to tell your friends,quilting groups, neighbors, check out girl, bank teller...

Theplan was to make a lovely quilt label for the back using a charmingvintage radish embroidery pattern that p. sent me. Unfortunately mythumb is not 100% yet, and no embroidering is happening for a longtime. Oh well, it's not about what I want, it is about helpingpeople!

Ifyou are new to my place head on over to the Veggie Market Quiltbutton over there on the right to see what we are up to. You willlove it!

780 x 242

420 x 420

Hey,I'm moving right along. Here are some pieces you can copy and pastewhere ever you like.

800 x 800

Hey, I've got red berries here! Here I come Rednesday!

Little Dorrit and 2012

2012-01-02T20:09:00.001-06:00

Tea Cup and Plates Blue Belle China by Pope Gosser (available)

Fellow bloggers seem to be doing two things so far this week, compiling looks back at 2011 and making resolutions. Both great things, and I am enjoying visiting them immensely. That's not what I am doing though.

What am I doing? I am so glad you asked! Our home is flooded with pestilence and disease, Pneumonia and viruses.

Now that my fever has broken I am swimming in tea. Delicious teas, a variety of teas, teas of every flavor and herbal benefit. We are so blessed. We have a comfy home with an abundance of soft, clean bedding, food, and heat. You know what else I really appreciate when sick at home? Modern technology. I remember being sick and having two game shows to watch during the day. We did not watch soap operas.

Nowadays we have a variety of things to put in and listen to even when our eyeballs hurt too bad to actually open.

Little Dorrit (photo, erasofelegance.com)

This bout I have attempted watching Little Dorrit again. It is a piece by Charles Dickens, one of his serials. That was when you would get one part of the book in your magazine or newspaper and have to wait for the next issue for the next part. This one took so long it was published between 1855 and 1857.

Being Dickens, and smack dab in the middle of the Victorian Era, it is a bit dark and is a commentary on the social situation of the time.

Claire Foy (photo, tv.com)

This 2008 version is the best I've seen though. The main character, Little Dorrit, the gal on the cover is portrayed by Claire Foy. You may recognize her from "Upstairs, Downstairs".

You know who really convinced me to finish watching?

Matthew Macfadyen as Mr. Darcy (photo, novelreaction.com)

Yep, Matthew Macfadyen who plays Arthur Clennam. In the story Mr. Clennam is such a very, very nice guy. Mr. Macfadyen is Mr. Darcy in my favorite version of "Pride and Prejudice". In the director's commentary of that movie the director states that he didn't want just a "pretty boy".

Matthew Macfadyen as Mr. Clennam (photo, erasofelegance.com)

He does sincerity so well. He reminds me of my Hubby. You watch "Little Dorritt" and just wish him good things.

There you go, our 2012 so far. Not so great, but not so very bad either!

(BTW! There is a FABULOUS twist at the end!)

Happy New Year to YOU

2012-01-01T08:58:00.000-06:00

To You and Yours a Blessed New Year!

Christmas Teacups, Tea, and Wishes

2011-12-22T10:40:00.000-06:00

Merry Christmas Friends!

I have wrapped up a few Christmas Tea Cups for dear friends who live near and send Christmas wishes to those who are far.

Christmas is for friends old and new.

This will be my first time joining Ruth at Antiques and Teacups for "Thursday Teacups and Tea Things" at Time Was Antiques. This post is also my first time participating in "Teacup Thursday" at Miss Spencer's. Lovely ladies with lovely blogs.

The Christmas Teacups this year are Holiday Charm sets by Gibson from 2000. The delicate holly is enchanting.

They are filled with teas and candies. I have always associated Anise candy with this time of year. Little striped peppermint pillows nestle with it all in a bit of silver and gold garland. Does anyone remember the Brownie song about new friends and old friends with silver and gold?

The teas included in the cups are Twinings Christmas Tea and Stash's Christmas Morning Tea. Both come in festive red wrappers perfect for my tea cups. They are both tasty black teas.

It was fun wrapping these up and thinking of the fun times and caring hearts shared with special friends.

I pray that all of you have the most blessed of Christmas' with loved ones near and far.

Vintage Vase Candy Cane Keeper

2011-12-20T17:57:00.000-06:00

Good Morning Blogging Friends!

I am always going on about alternate uses for vintage items, so I thought I would share this with you. You may remember my vintage vase from last Christmas. When Little Miss decorated she put it in the same spot, but with a vintage white damask napkin layered on the poinsettia cloth. (She makes her mother proud.)

This wee table fits right behind our front door where it gathers Christmas Cards and random tidbits. The candy canes are right there to send off with visitors young and old. Although, I admit lately quite a few of them are making their way into my coffee.

Some day I may try different colored Candy Canes, but I will always love these best. How about you?

Hey, they're red, perfect for Rednesday. Make sure to stop by my Crimson Christmas Roses too!

Christmas Girl Planter by Napco says "Happy Holidays"!

2011-12-18T14:25:00.000-06:00

Say "hello" to my winter girl.

I have been waiting and waiting for a Christmassy Miss just like this!

She is a planter from the 50's by Napco. Her sticker is still on the bottom.

I enjoyed perusing Walter Dworkin's Vintage Christmas Ceramic Collectibles Book recently. The girls with the ermine trimmed capes were my favorites. I have bought and sold a few vintage Christmas girls, but never one with fur trim.

Never has a piece been plucked off a shelf quicker! She still has old plastic pine and such in her. It simply was not possible to wait any longer to share her with you. I have not been able to go thrifting for weeks, but she will tide me over for a long time.

Later when she is done up proper I'll share her with another vintage surprise I received in the mail. Hmm, something fun for after Christmas.

Christmas Roses

2011-12-09T21:42:00.001-06:00

Here is Mom's Christmas Tree. She purchased it way back before she was married in the 60's at a fine china shop where she worked. It has always been very special to me.

It is only one week into December, and one of my Christmas wishes has already come true. Hubby asked me what I wanted for Christmas a few days ago, and was really surprised when I said I was in the mood for red roses. I have never, ever asked for them. Other colors usually speak to me. He did know I would like the sprays of baby roses better than the large stems though. Being married twenty years is much better than being newlyweds.

It seems to be the year to be romantic. Classic red and white, especially when the white is vintage Fenton. Thanks again to Mom.

Okay, so maybe they really are pity roses. I'm not too proud.

Vera did Harold the Budgie!

2011-12-08T15:44:00.001-06:00

You are never, ever too old to get a care package from your mom. Even if it has a duckling. Sigh, she loves me.

Not only that she included a vintage scarf that has budgies!

Look, it's Harold! Aaaand, it's Vera, oooohhhh.

What is it about the name "Vera"? If you are named Vera are you guaranteed success as a fashion designer. Did these gals change their names, or were they baby Veras?

Besides our beloved designer of 1960's scarves you have Vera Bradley. Here is a retired line available at Dahliafound one of my fellow Etsy Vintage Team shops. Little Miss has a Vera Bradley Backpack Purse she got for ten cents, yes CENTS. She makes me so proud, sniffle.

And the currently popular Vera Wang which even us regular folks can find at Kohl's.

Grandma's name was Veda. Apparently not as stylish as Vera, but adorable when you consider Grandpa's name was Vernon. Aww....

Cobalt Glassware, One of My Favorites

2011-12-07T22:45:00.001-06:00

How do you like the little vase I found this past autumn? It held this bit of Autumn Joy Sedum for days by my favorite work spot. I've been saving a few sunny photos for when the gray December days came. I love the shadow.

Did you guess that it is not a vase at all, but a very small tumbler? Good for you. This shot has another great shadow.

This wee tumbler is the shape of the Homespun pattern by the Jeanette Glass Company produced from 1939 to 1949. I've read that it was only made in pink and crystal. I'm wondering if this was made from a vintage mold that ended up in someone else's warehouse or if they started from scratch. Thoughts anyone?

Cobalt glass, always a winner. Do you have any cobalt pieces? Come on, share!

Vintage Kitchen Towel Homeyness for Rednesday

2011-12-06T20:39:00.000-06:00

Happy Rednesday! With a bum thumb I cannot take any red Christmassy photos. Thanks to Dear D I do have something warm and homey for Rednesday though!

Grandpa W had one of these towel holders. I think our yellow kitchen needs one too, like Dear D's red kitchen. Now that I think of it, Grandpa's kitchen was peach. Hmm, I hang out with a colorful bunch!

Speaking of a great bunch of people, thanks for the Christmas music suggestions! I'm going to type Rosemary Clooney into my Pandora station and hunt down that new Buble CD. Thinking about Harry Connick Jr. got me thinking about Hope Floats, so now I'll have to see if we can get that on Netflix.

Here is the match to Dear D's vintage towel. She has amassed quite the collection from all over. These were out being used. Maybe the next time I'm down I should start digging through her linen drawers. Would that push the boundaries of friendship?

She is actually bringing the kiddos up today. I'm so thrilled! If she brings something fabulous to share I'll convince her to snap a photo for us, promise.

I wonder what goodies others will have for Rednesday!

Croon Me Some Christmas Music

2011-12-06T11:25:00.001-06:00

One of the biggest advantages to working at home is being able to listen to whatever you want. With me it's Christmas Music all the time December through January. One month is simply not enough.

I've amassed quite a collection of Christmas CD's to fit my moods. Perhaps when my leg is better I will put the Christmas Reggae in. Right now though, only the vintage will tunes fit.

Thanks to the internet there is an endless variety. Pandora is my favorite. There's a candy cane link down there on the right if you would like to try it. Now my Christmas CD collection can stay in the car.

Do you have any recommendations for me to try?

Holly by Termocrisa and a Thank You

2011-12-04T19:59:00.001-06:00

Holly on Milk Glass is a classic! Who can resist holly? I especially like that it can be on display all winter long. This Pedestal Mug is available in the shop. It is unmarked, but probably Termocrisa.

This Fluted Holly Bowl has often been attributed to Termocrisa even though, like the mug, it is unmarked. It too is available.

This bowl is so stylish I have made a winter Thank You for the shop with it. You bet I take the time to make and send photo thank yous. Mom Wald's Place has the best customers in the world!

Aurora Depression Glass by Hazel Atlas

2011-12-03T09:23:00.001-06:00

I was feeling a bit blue earlier, so I pulled out this photo I have been saving to share with you. Now I feel almost as bright as this Depression Glass Bowl.

It was given to me by a friend who knew I would love it even though it has a sizable chip in the rim. I am thinking of learning how to drill glass, so that I can hang it in a window. People are making wind chimes out of plates. Perhaps I could make one out of this, and hang it outside my window will the sunshine will hit it.

This pattern is Aurora made by Hazel Atlas in the 1930's. I never would have guessed if I hadn't stumbled upon it in a book while researching different items. Cobalt appears to be the only color it was made in. It has a nice feel to it. This is a pattern I could definitely live with. They also only made breakfast set pieces. Cereal would definitely taste better from this bowl. Hey, I could try that!

Persimmon Fiesta and Hand Quilted Umbrellas

2011-11-26T22:07:00.001-06:00

There are two stars in this blog post, and I am not sure who should get top billing. Well, I put the most time into my new little pouch, so I will tell you about it first. I had just a bit of umbrella fabric left from Dear P's zipper pouch. We would not want to waste it would we?

I cannot tell you how much I miss hand stitching. There were big plans in the works for Christmas presents, but I do not know if I'll manage. Sigh.

Okay, enough of that. This here is a persimmon Fiesta mug. Little Miss swapped me for it. She gave me one of her spare plants, and I gave her this to put one of her succulents in. It matches the color theme of her pot collection.

I did not know there was so much confusion with Fiesta marks, so I thought I would share this newer one with you. Persimmon is a retired color, but still pretty new. If you are on the hunt for vintage pieces I highly recommend looking at some Fiesta books to become familiar with the marks. Besides, it's a good excuse to peruse pictures of vintage Fiesta!

Christy Cup by Lefton for the Christmas Season

2011-11-26T08:46:00.001-06:00

Good Morning! It is officially the Christmas Season and for once I'm REALLY in the mood. Woohoo!!!

I was just going to say good morning, but I just have to share that this is a Christy Cup by Lefton. Sure it's in the shop, but the great news is that it is vintage LEFTON. I'm not good enough to date its mark without the sticker. Clues anyone?

Happy Thanksgiving

2011-11-24T11:34:00.001-06:00

Happy Thanksgiving to You and Yours

Red Shutters for Rednesday

2011-11-23T07:42:00.001-06:00

I just love this new place. Dear D has such a charming neighborhood. Red shutters, how quaint.

The kids call it "the Condo". I am tempted to move in myself. It has heat and light, all the comforts of home.

I'll have to wait for the current residents to move though.

If I tell Hubby that we need red shutters so that our place can be as spiffy as a chicken coup. He'll think I'm nuts. Then again I think he already does...

Make sure to stop by Rednesday to meet others who are nuts for red!

Enesco Chickens for Fun

2011-11-21T09:49:00.001-06:00

Good Morning Sunshine!

Before I forget, sorry about the poinsettias before Thanksgiving. We will be gone on Friday, and I want this place pepped up for the day after Thanksgiving. It was a good excuse to "clean house".

See these nifty pictures over on the right? Each one is a button to a special page. Not this one, just those over there. Yep there they are. There is even one up towards the top for the Veggie Quilt for Japan Earthquake Relief Page.

Anyways, how do you like these nifty chickens? Does anyone remember the Rooster? I was so excited when I found a hen for him. She is supposed to have a pastel lid. I do not know if Enesco made different color lids, and I cannot remember which pastel it was. She's just the sweetest lil' gal. I sent her home with "Dear D". Speaking of which I hope I remember to share her real chickens on Wednesday. Why Wednesday, and not now you might ask. Hmmm, you'll just have to guess.

Alice by Fire King paired with Chelan by Franciscan

2011-11-19T07:09:00.001-06:00

Good Morning! I have freshly brewed coffee, and peace in my home. I pray that you do too.

How about a little mixing and matching today? I have been saving these photos for a morning that needs a bit of "vintage springtime". I find mixing and matching much more fun than a table set with only one pattern. With vintage pieces like these who can resist?

The lovely blossom is called "Chelan" and was produced by Franciscan for only two years from 1950 to 52.

"Alice" by Fire King in the early 40's, is not only beautiful on the front, but the backs are lovely also. Certainly not a detail to be found in today's pieces. Hmm, I never thought of hanging plates backwards!

It can be hard to show details of opaque glassware in photos. When I was playing around with effects, these flowers popped out at me. Imagine that!

There have been requests for cards made from some of my vintage dish photos. Can you all share with me the best way to make photo cards. The ones from the developers are not as nice as I would like. For my own use I have been simply trimming photos and gluing them onto blank cards. Is there a better way? If not, where does a person find a good, large supply of blanks?

I would much rather be thinking about vintage dishes and crafting than my to-do list. How about you?

Hah! As I'm finishing, we find that I need to drive Hubby in to work. No to-do list for me anyways. Planning instead of blogging would have been a waste ;)

Embroidered Veggie Market Quilt for Japan Update

2011-11-18T05:30:00.000-06:00

Gooood Morning!

Have you noticed the new page here at my place? A special page just for the Veggie Market Quilt for Earthquake Relief photos is now available.

I decided to auction the quilt the third week of January to avoid the holiday season and to give myself time to embroider a label. It will be auctioned on Ebay, because of convenience and familiarity. The proceeds will go directly to the Japan Relief organization. Snappy!

As the date nears I will be providing graphics, information, editorials, and links for YOU to help promote it too. The more the merrier!

Have you been to The Way I Sew It and seen the quilt finished? Go, go NOW! P. did a wonderful job quilting and binding it.

As always feel free to ask questions here in the comments or directly at momwaldsplace@gmail.com.

Have a Delightful Day!

Canarytone by W. S. George, a PLATE!

2011-11-17T07:46:00.001-06:00

Top of the morning to ya! This time away, though frustrating, has been made bearable by a loving family and wonderful friends. You know, the folks who put up with me going stir crazy.

One such friend "Dear S" gave me another wonderful plate. This gal knows just what I like. I had not even shared with her that I am going to focus my personal collecting on plates with items besides just floating floral arrangements. It has lattice, what a gal!

It has been made apparent to me that I simply cannot pick a favorite style of, well, anything. There are simply too many wonderful designs! Dishes from this era are definitely be at the top of my list though. There is something homey about them.

This plate is from W. S. George's Lido line. The company shared decals with the other big producers of the time, and did not name all of them. Thus the "018A" may be the only name it has.

You may remember my little treasured Canarytone Sugar Bowl, and my lament over the lack of information.

Lido is the shape of the blanks and, Canarytone is the type of pottery. It does have the faintest yellow, creamy color to it.

There you have it, I'm back! With a plate of course. Thank you and virtual hugs to all of my blogging friends and well wishers. I am officially done whining now.

Thanks!

2011-11-07T19:15:00.001-06:00

Hello all of my blogging peeps! "Peeps" is the one new slang term I like. It reminds me of Easter candy peeps!

Thanks for all of the virtual hugs. Still no hand, no decent typing, no listing goodies, no embroidery, sewing, crocheting....

I hate to visit your blogs and not be able to leave comments. Someday!

Waechtersbach Piggies

2011-10-31T07:15:00.001-05:00

Here are some little Waechtersbach piggies to say "Hello", and let you know that I have not forgotten my blogging friends. I have hurt my hand, so I cannot type. My hen pecking is horrible. I'll be back in a bit.

This retired mug was for my sister. I squealed like a piglet myself when I found it.

Vintage Towels with Red for Rednesday

2011-10-26T07:35:00.000-05:00

These vintage linens with bits of red have been waiting to have their moment in the limelight. they are being sold together in the shop, because after all of this waiting they are best friends.

This one is the hardest one to part with. Geraniums!

The design, the colors, even the bit of fading simply makes it wonderful.

Their designs are so attractive I had to use them in other vintage item photos. I wonder if enough of those items are left in the shop to play an "I Spy" game.

I am toying with using this lemon photo to make cards, because I like it so much.

Some industrious gal used the last piece of this fabric that she had, and made a little table scarf. I would have too, it's too precious to waste.

I wonder how long Canon has been in business. Sure, I could look it up, but I like the mystery.

If you are here for Rednesday make sure to see my previous post too. It has Helen's purse!

A "New" Vintage Accessory Book

2011-10-22T08:22:00.001-05:00

Here is a great book that I found, where else, at the library. It is nice and big, and can keep you company through quite a few coffee breaks. Vintage Fashion Accessories by Stacy La Albo includes collections from her friends. What fun gals!

Imagine my surprise when I found "Helen's" purse. Hers still has the secret compartment label in it, and sparkles! The book says it is from the 1940's and values it at $125. Go Helen!

I warn you though, you'll stop by to see her purse, and stay for hours laughing through her blog. Another great way to spend coffee breaks.

I have a new stack of library books including ones for Hall China, Fiestaware, and vintage linens. Who knows what I will find next!

Cranberry Red Tupperware, Ooooh....

2011-10-19T08:23:00.000-05:00

I learned something new. Apparently, cranberry is close enough to true red for a person who collects red Tupperware. Imagine that! When I mentioned to Dear D that I had come across some cranberry acrylic Tupperware you should have seen her eyes light up.

I do not know all of the proper Tupperware style names, so I was unable to tell her exactly what they are. I just know they are "pretty". Do you see the leaf reflected in the bottom? These were made so that you could stack them and cook two items at once in the microwave. You can also flip this lid over to use as another dish. Sweet.

I tried to catch the measurement markings up the side of this batter bowl. You'll just have to take my word for it.

It would not be October without some photos of our Sugar Maple leaves!

Happy UnBirthday to YOU Dear D! Now if only I could find some red spice container lids...

Hey, I almost forgot, thanks again to Dear D, I can participate in Rednesday.

La Mancha Cup from Metlox for Autumn Color

2011-10-17T05:44:00.000-05:00

This vintage cup has the exotic name of La Mancha. It must be the black trim that inspired it. It appeals to me because of its warm color and sturdy style. Sometimes you just need a sturdy yet lovely mug of something warm. With the breeze whipping our autumn leaves about these days warm drinks are replacing icy ones.

Someone added a bit of whimsy to the handle. If you want to see more photos and the mark they are at the shop. I just wanted to share a bit of warmth with you on this brisk, colorful day.

2011-10-15T06:08:00.000-05:00

My favorite mini muffin baking tin is a vintage one that I found ages ago. The cups are "two bite" size instead of one. It would seem as if they would be hard to get out with the bottoms having ridges, but they do just fine.

I like the vintage looking label on this can of pumpkin. It would be great if the background was something other than black though.

There was a sunny morning recently which simply begged for us to be in the kitchen. Little Miss had to do her Algebra, and I was able to bake. I tried to convince her I was using fractions and doing math too. She still thought I was having more fun, rightly so.

I am hooked on using fresh nutmeg. It smells so incredible. The few extra minutes to grate it are worth it. You do not need any fancy equipment. Usually I do a bit extra in case I am in a hurry the next time. There is something rewarding about seeing the little pile of nutmeg grow.

This lovely plate is salad size. The blue is brighter than the cobalt that I usually collect, but I could not resist it.

Anyone recognize this company? Me neither. I really like the seahorses though, and the stylized castle on the top. Apparently the company has made quite a bit, and even items for FTD.

Little Pumpkin Muffins can make even Algebra better.

I hope your day is filled with little "bites" of goodness.

Baby Gerbil Houseguests

2011-10-14T05:18:00.000-05:00

We are babysitting, and it is so much fun. Friends have entrusted us with the smallest members of their household for a whole week. Do not ask me how old these two youngsters are, because I do not have a clue. I just know that they are at the cutest Gerbil stage of life. They are just like our four year old friend, full of energy and curiosity without a smidgen of fear. They are just so cute I want to squeal.

Our oldest was home in time to visit our house guests. Gerbils are his favorite kind of pets, so it was a pretty big deal. He was nice enough to share his photos with me. He is quite the photographer. More of his photos that are not gerbils are on Facebook. He even has some from our camera date at the arboretum there.

One of the best parts of babysitting these little guys and their relatives is that we are guaranteed a visit with our friends when they pick them up, yay.

Antique Hand Painted Plates Make Great Gifts

2011-10-12T06:41:00.003-05:00

I love presents. I really, really LOVE presents. It's not the getting something that means so much. It is that someone was thinking about me when I wasn't around. It makes me feel all warm and fuzzy.

Dear "S" surprised me with this recently. We see each other regularly, because I do business where she works. She saw this and thought of me when she was not at work though, so that makes me get those warm fuzzies.

I love the fact that this was painted by someone, probably a lady, in her free time. She thought of the composition, or followed the teacher. Hand painted items from companies are nice, but this is better. It makes me wonder what stories it could tell.

She bought this plate as a blank, like the two Antique German Creamers in the shop.

Nowadays porcelain painting is not as popular as it once was. I have had the privilege of meeting two porcelain painters. They are a delightful mother and daughter, who are as beautiful as the pieces they create. This naturally leads me to picture all porcelain painting ladies as being this way.

Dear "S" certainly is! Thanks Luv.

Autumn Wonders with Wonderful Kids

2011-10-10T05:31:00.000-05:00

Little Miss and I took a morning to have a camera date in Madison with our oldest son. These are Autumn Crocuses. We absolutely need some here at my place. They will need to be ordered next year, because I have never been able to find them for sale. Oooh, I could spend sleepless winter nights planning the new front foundation garden.

I took them to the UW Arboretum. It is a lovely place and we were able to catch the many moods of autumn. We started following the signs towards the maples, and ended up meandering all over.

We were in search of color, because it had really just started well here in Southern Wisconsin. Then the next day it was if all the trees had exploded. Driving is delightful this time of year.

The photo in the upper right is actually the undersides of the leaves. From the top they were dark green and burgundy. Sunlight does amazing things.

Trees are timeless. I hope I age so well. Little Miss could not remember coming to the Arboretum when she was little. We shall have to come more often.

If I were a squirrel this is the tree I would want. Can you spy the nest in the upper right. Imagine living in such beauty. Everyone of these shots is a different tree.

What I was not able to capture, because we were having too much fun was the "wild" turkeys hanging out with us, the hawk that fellow alongside us, and wild and crazy chestnut trees.

May your autumn be full of beautiful moments, tranquil times, and loving people.

2011-10-09T06:03:00.000-05:00

After a hectic week, too busy even for blogging, I was feeling like these late roses. Hubby took me out last night for a bit of fun, and things are looking sunny again.

Just now I found this on FB. Apparently it is being posted all over, so kudos to whomever originally made it.

It's a new week, let's make the most of it!

Vintage Apple Goodness

2011-10-05T06:33:00.000-05:00

Just in time for apple season, I found this charming little apple dish.

I am not sure what I am going to do with it yet. It would be perfect for a single serving of stewed apples, and it is perfect for Rednesday. Some lucky person will probably be able to get it from the shop eventually.

It is by the same company as the little strawberry dish from a summer ago, John Wagner and Sons. They started selling high end grocery items in 1847, and was sold to Rose Spice Inc. in the 1990's. There is even a Wagner Museum in Pennsylvania. How fun!

Fire King or Not Fire King, That is the Question

2011-10-03T06:32:00.001-05:00

Yay, I remembered to snag a photo of my latest Fire King piece before I put meatloaf in it, and made it all messy.

Funny thing though, I was pretty sure it was Fire King, and my other pieces with these blue flowers and handles are. I cannot remember the name of the style, but they are stamped with Fire King.

I wanted to double check, so I flipped it over. The mark is bizarre. It has a ring that includes "microwave safe", but the center of it is blank. No Anchor Hocking, no Fire King, nothing.

These do not go for enough money to warrant copies. Then again, they would not have put microwave safe on it if it was made back when. It's a mystery!

Little Roses

2011-10-02T06:10:00.001-05:00

It is sad, but true, these are the last roses of the year.

The Iceberg on the left is full size. The Abraham Darby on the right is just as small thanks to the cold. With barely any sun, I am surprised they bloomed at all.

The little pitchers are a pair that I thrifted by Godinger, the same company that made my "Thank You" Teapot.

The sun came out for a bit and warmed up Darby!

May you all find some little bits of loveliness today.

New Friends and New Goodies

2011-10-01T06:09:00.002-05:00

Little Miss and I had the best time the other time the other day. We met with P. for lunch in Madison. What a charming person she is. P. is going to quilt our Embroidered Veggie Market Quilt for Japan Relief.

She is quite the talented quilter. Have you seen these on her blog, The Way I Sew It? I was so surprised when she brought one for me. These are just the sweetest little owls, and just this bit of them is perfect for me.

All of these goodies were in a gift bag for me, lil' ol' me. I feel so special. She even included a Russell Wright bowl by Iroquoise, remembering my blog posts about the collection.

It is wonderful when you get to meet someone so lovely on the inside and outside.

A Little Zippered Pouch for Someone with a Great Big Heart

2011-09-30T06:48:00.000-05:00

I made a zipper pouch for Dear "P." from The Way I Sew It. She is the wonderful person who is quilting the Veggie Market Quilt for Japan Relief. She is just so sweet!

Some Autumn Joy Sedums sprouted in an odd spot. I let them do their thing all summer, and now I've snipped them to enjoy inside. Our large bed of them out front usually vibrates with butterflies. It is too cold this year, and I miss them.

I hand quilted around most of the umbrellas to give it a little more body. The umbrellas do not have anything to do with veggies, but I thought they were perfect for Japan.

I cannot imagine being as talented as "P." and quilting whole quilts. You simply must go visit her blog and see her creations.

(Yay, we met to swap the quilt. She is even more wonderful in person!)

Vintage Turquoise Thrifted Thingie Thursday

2011-09-29T06:12:00.002-05:00

I finally had stuff from recent thrifting hanging out in my kitchen when I was taking shop photos. There hasn't been a "look what I found" photo here in ages. I had a turquoise day. How cool is that?!

Usually I try to set a good example of being a polite thrifter. Life is too short to get pushy. I admit though when I saw the Bouttoniere Carafe hiding behind some pans, I did a a quick "excuse me" and dove for it. Just because I'm nice doesn't mean I cannot be quick, right?

There was a rummage sale the other day with the whole dinnerware set for twenty bucks. I don't know if it had any covered dishes, but it did have the butter and long relish peeking out. I am regretting not getting it.

The plastic pot holder has separate pots with drainage holes in the holder. It's Tupperware! I am going to put it right on the windowsill where I like to take my blue mason jar photos. With the handles on the ends it will be easy to move when I want to take more of those.

Rummaging finally became fun, and now the season is over. At least it went out with a bang, a vintage turquoise bang!

I wonder if anyone else over at Vintage Thingie Thursday will have turquoise today?

(My mouse just died, so I cannot cut and paste a link to VTT into the text. Go on over to the left side bar and click the little birdie to go to Vintage Thingie Thursday. Thanks!)

Aha, our middle son saved me! I am leaving the previous message here, because you don't hear enough about how great teenagers can be nowadays. He knew where in the house to find another mouse.

Soooooo, head on over to Vintage Thingie Thursday, TA DA!

Oh hey, thanks to him, I was even able to list the Vintage Boutonniere Carafe by Taylor Smith and Taylor in the shop. Thanks Bud!

Wee Red Flowers on a Vintage Tin for Rednesday

2011-09-28T06:51:00.000-05:00

I only have the wee littlest bit of red for Rednesday this week. These sweet little flowers on this Rice label. The label is for this Vintage Rice Tin I have in the shop. I liked the tin with its black lid from the back before I even saw the sweet label.

I still use my grandmother's rice tin. I pull it out at least twice a week. She kept Uncle Ben's instant white rice in it, but I keep long grain brown rice in it. I should take a photo of it too!

The black eyed peas are from our garden. I'm not sure if they were worth the space that they took. We eat a lot of beans, and a four by six box of plants produced just over a pound. That's not even one week's worth.

The last time I picked them was early on a cold morning. They were still wet with dew and wasps were sleeping at the top of the beans where they hooked onto the stem. I am happy to say that no stinging was involved. Cold sleepy bees are funny.

I love the graphic that Sue found for Rednesday this week!

Summer Flowers at Rotary Botanical Gardens

2011-09-27T06:52:00.000-05:00

Hubby is such a sweetie. He took me to Rotary Botanical Gardens a couple of weeks ago. It took this long to blog, because the photos are from his phone.

The gardens have started having a color theme each year. They are always so much fun.

They keep adding on and improving every year. It is rather impressive.

There is a link down there in "Beautiful Places to Go" if you want to visit their site without having to find this post again.

If you are ever in my neck of the woods we could visit it together!

A Tisket a Tasket, a Berry Filled Basket

2011-09-26T06:07:00.000-05:00

I miss the items that were especially made for Avon. They always had a certain class and charm about them

This plate in the shop is a perfect example.

The berries make me want to go pick some fresh ones. We have to wait until July for the ones at our place. It's going to be a long wait.

The eighties are not my favorite. There are three companies though, that made the decade a bit lovelier, Avon, Hallmark, and Current. Have I missed any?

Missoni or Not

2011-09-25T06:40:00.001-05:00

Even though I am trying to whittle down my stash, I could not resist some fresh autumn colors.

I admit, the Missoni items for Target caught my eye. Like many others the retro feel of the zig zags was a real draw. Instead of joining the masses I opted for a piece of fabric from the Stonehill Collection. Since I only have a skinny quarter, and I forgot to write down the info on the selvage at the shop, I do not know who made it. It is going to make a great purse organizer for my vintage Dooney Burke purse. The reflections in the cup are fun.

Somehow I missed this fabulous pumpkin print by Alexander Henry last year. It was in the clearance section this week. Why they did not put it out with the new autumn prints is beyond me, but I liked the price. I also like how it goes with vintage Otagiri demitasse.

Now I just have to whip their projects up quick, so that I am not guilty of adding to my overflowing fabric collection.

Purple Eggplant Goodness

2011-09-24T07:06:00.000-05:00

A fellow at work sharede eggplants from his garden with Hubby. These eggplants are rather odd creatures, grocery stores would be more fun if they allowed for a bit of variety like this. They have a very tasty future.

This post is especially for the Home Gnome. Let's see if she finds it.

Apple Red Rednesday

2011-09-21T07:20:00.000-05:00

It is an early autumn, and being in denial will not change that. I admit defeat. If you cannot beat them, join them. We picked up some baking apples, and now all I have to do decide what to make.

I was about to bemoan the fact that I did not have anything to share for Rednesday. You cannot get any redder than these apples! I have been wavering between stitching this vintage kit up and listing it in the shop. Being a good girl, I listed it this morning.

The leaves are turning and the apples are ripe, are you inspired to bake or stitch?

The Button Story

2011-09-20T06:20:00.002-05:00

Little buttons are perfect for lots of things. I pulled these out to share one of my favorite stories.

When our youngest was very little she had a hard time telling the front from the back of her little girl panties. Together we picked little buttons like these out, and I sewed one on the front waistband of each pair. Hubby thought this was hilarious.

The next morning I found a little orange button sewed onto the front of one of mine. My Hubby IS hilarious. He is a big guy, and the picture of him sewing that still makes me laugh.

See that little orange button up there? Yep, that's it. I kept it for posterity. This is my vintage bird coaster. It has no mark or name, but the little birds make me smile.

Someday I'll tell you the chicken in a dress story, someday.

Fly Me to the Moon

2011-09-19T05:22:00.002-05:00

I have never shared a video here at my place before. Our oldest shared this with me, and I simply have to share it with you. It's nice when your kids understand you.

Wood Rose, How Romantic and Tragic

2011-09-18T05:46:00.001-05:00

I cannot help it. I love the name of this pattern, Wood Rose. Names are funny things. Can you believe this is a "gravy boat"? Me neither. Yet it is one of two styles that Taylor, Smith and Taylor made for their "Ever Yours" line. The other is a larger version of the creamer.

Most people recognize Ever Yours from the TST Bouttoniere pattern. They did quite a few patterns on it though, and I seem to like each one I find a bit better than the last. I think one of the best things about it is the colored insides. The uplifted sides and draping handles are Ever Yours giveaways. I've never seen another line with those.

Here is a tea cup of the Autumn Harvest pattern.

Dear D has this Bouttoniere set, including the underplate for the gravy bowl.

Caramel, perfect for autumn. I like how they are attractive without even having to put anything inside them. These two are available in the shop together. After all they have been through, I cannot bear to separate them.

Here is where the tale turned tragic. The sweet, happy family.

This is our lovely heroine. The very thoughtful seller had taped the lid to the body. Apparently it tipped at sometime before I came along, and underneath the tape was a crack down the backside. (Yes, I am assuming the best. Yes, I will remove tape before buying again.)

The little brass knob is too, too perfect.

The sugar bowl like the Ever Yours casserole dish has a unique way of supporting the lid. I find beautiful glaze irresistible.

I wonder what pattern I will find next! Which one do you have?

As always if you have any questions about these patterns feel free to contact me at momwaldsplace@gmail.com. I'll help all I can. There are my favorite research sites over there on the sidebar too. Good Luck!

I wonder what pattern I will find next! Which one do you have?

An Itsy Bitsy Antique Embroidery Pattern

2011-09-16T22:32:00.000-05:00

Ooops, it is already the middle of September, and I have not shared the new September Stitch Along for the New Embroideries with Vintage Patterns Flickr Group yet.

Yes... that's because I had not started it yet.

All is well now though, because I am stitching again. One wee little flower was finished when I had a chance for photos, and since then I have completed two more bitty blossoms. I have chosen to use the "Variegated Threads" Theme. This month we are offering two themes again, the other being "Lovely Ladies".

The pattern for the flowers is an antique one that was in the Hoop Love Vintage Transfers Flickr Group. Unfortunately I forgot to make a note of who uploaded it. Let me know if you know who it was please, so that I can thank them.

The colors were inspired by these six little blue squares that came my way in a scrap bag. Either they are vintage, or they are made to look like it. I love them even though they are only two and a half inches!

I even found this print in my stash that looks rather like the little flowers I am embroidering. This cheerful embroidery and quilting project is just the thing I needed to perk me up.

White is Beautiful even in Autumn

2011-09-14T23:18:00.000-05:00

We went to a wedding recently. Since then I have been daydreaming about white lace. White is not normally what I am thinking about in September. The fields are gold and green, and bordered by wild sunflowers and golden rod.

I still keep thinking about white linens. Maybe my subconscious is unwilling to let go of summer. I'm rather in the mood to do some spring cleaning and rearranging. I could pull out some new to me vintage linens that I did not take the time for this summer.

My June Victoria Magazines keep finding their way into my take along bag to keep me company while I crochet and wait for Little Miss. Victoria often has a blue and white theme for their June issue. I've edited a close up of the Vintage Enesco Lavabo to make a picture I think would be great on fabric. Oh yes, both the Vintage Lefton Doves and Lavabo are in the shop.

Are you ready for autumn yet? A friend brought by some of her apples and one of the best apple muffins I have ever had. It still does not seem like fall. In fact, I'm in the mood for a picnic, or maybe rebuild our white garden.

What do you think, should I stay happily out of whack or get my seasons straight? Then again, white linens and porcelain might set off autumn foliage beautifully.

Bucks County where the Milk Maids Dance

2011-09-14T07:32:00.000-05:00

Goooood Morning!

I love cows. Yes, I admit, it is easier to love them when you do not have to shovel up after them. Still, I love cows.

Real ones that is. It is rare for me to find cow things or pictures that I like. This, I like.

I like chickens too. They eat bugs, they're cute, and tasty, they lay eggs, what's not to love?

This is how I feel when I find a really great vintage piece I have never seen before. I haven't had those braids since I was six, but still, that's how I feel.

Is this looking a bit familiar to you. It sure did to me when I first spied it in a dark garage. I told the gal that had it, that I was only buying it in order to blog it. To her it was just an old plate, gasp.

Take a gander at the Countryside Plate by Royal. There are more photos on the blog post I picked it up it for.

This plate is "Bucks County" by Royal. The styles of the dishes are very different, but they are definitely the same artist. Bucks County is supposed to be brown on yellow, but the pieces did not all come out the same shade of brown. Why is the mark green? We'll never know.

Are there any other lines that you know of that have work by the same unknown artist? I love these mysteries.

The Nina & Pinta in Wisconsin - Really

2011-09-11T09:45:00.002-05:00

I've had it, that's it, I'm running away to sea!

Just kidding. After visiting these two reproductions of the Nina and the Pinta, I cannot imagine how bad it would have been at home for someone to choose going to sea on these.

First, before I tell you why there is a photo of a ship here at my place I need to beg, and grovel, and plead for forgiveness that I did not share this opportunity with all of my friends and fellow homeschoolers. Even though Hubby went to the website and researched it before we went, there was a part of me that thought, "They cannot really be, well, real", so I did not share. I am a horrible, horrible friend. Please forgive me.

I thought it was beyond wonderful when Hubby and I saw and actual silver creamer and sugar in the St. Louis Art Museum by Paul Revere. These ships top that!

They are actually made the way the originals were, and folks sail them to different places. Amazing! Go to the site, The Nina & Pinta, where it tells the story of their creation, and gives a schedule, a movie, and all sorts of wonderful things.

I always figured a person would have to go to the ocean to see something like this, we're in Wisconsin!

Mushrooms, Rabbits, and Flowered Birds, ahhhh the Seventies

2011-09-10T05:06:00.001-05:00

Good Morning. Little whimsical bunny has a mushroom for you.

A flower on a mushroom. The seventies were so much fun. Well, at least for a little kid like me. (Stop doing the math. Stop it!)

I cannot separate these two friends, so they are together in the shop.

The seventies had something in common with the Victorians. They had to put flowers on everything!

This little bird is so much fun, that I stayed up late playing with the photo.

I have noticed a habit of mine. When September comes I start pulling out the golden vintage goodies. It must be the wild sunflowers and other golden wildflowers inspiring me.

What inspires you in September? Do you jump right into autumn or cling to summer beaches and seashells as long as you can?

Southwestern Style Thrifting

2011-09-09T05:35:00.004-05:00

Little Miss is practicing her photography and thrifting skills. Actually, she has the thrifting down pat. What are the chances she would find a southwestern style creamer to put her little succulent in? Sorry, the creamer is by nobody interesting, even though she thought to take a shot of the mark. That's my girl!

Do you have shots of your creative pots?

Vintage Glass and Chocolate Cookies, I Love My Job

2011-09-08T05:32:00.000-05:00

Part of me feels guilty for sharing these with you without actually sharing them with you. How about I tell you the secret for making them. Would that help?

You simply use the Chocolate Chip Cookie Recipe in the "Red Check" Better Homes and Gardens Cookbook. You had better have one! Before you start take out a 1/4 cup of the flour and substitute a 1/3 cup of cocoa powder.

Are you impressed? Don't be. Of course I got this from my mom, of course. She got it from the back of the Nestle chocolate chip bag.

These were made really small for a party we were going to where everyone brought tiny tidbit treats. It was a great party.

This vintage glass dish was out for shop photos. I think it's perfect for wee little cookies. Then again, maybe I should try it with some truffles to see if it works for those too. Hey, I consider it my duty to test my vintage goodies for the shop. It's a dirty job, but somebody has to do it!

I hope my sacrifices are appreciated for Vintage Thingy Thursday.

Surprise Quiche?

2011-09-06T20:26:00.000-05:00

No sorry, the quiche is not a surprise. Well, okay, every time I don't have to do the cooking it is a nice little surprise. Wait, just wait...

...are you waiting?

Surprise, it's Rednesday!

Oddly enough, it's not vintage. This is my "vintage style" towel that was a surprise for me from "Dear D" a few years ago. Until now I've been afraid to use it. It might, gasp, get a stain! Now, thanks to Sue, I'm ready to revel in my red. Let's go see what everyone else has for Rednesday.

(Yes, the quiche was tasty, tasty, tasty, and not just because it had that special "somebody else cooked it" flavor either.)

Blue Ridge Potteries

2011-09-06T05:52:00.005-05:00

"Colonial" Shape

Blue Ridge is new to me. It was fun to learn about Southern Potteries Incorporated while researching this group of plates that is in the shop.

2 Chickory Bread and Butter Plates

I found that they produced " Blue Ridge" Dinnerware from 1917 to 1957.

1 Crabapple Bread and Butter Plate

Apparently a large part of their production was in the 1940's and 50's for trading stamp premiums. It would be so much fun to be able to do that nowadays.

5 Floral Saucers

I could not bear to separate these. You know how I love "china flower gardens". That is why they are being sold as a group. The hard part would be to decide whether to hang them on the wall, or use them. Maybe both!

Happy Labor Day!

2011-09-05T05:32:00.000-05:00

Happy Labor Day!

This little fella was planted by "our" chipmunk. His labors brought us flowers!

A Bit of Loveliness for Sunday

2011-09-04T06:30:00.000-05:00

Can you name these blossoms?

Before I tell you what they are I would like to wish you all a lovely Sunday. I pray that even those that are rebuilding or cleaning out can find a small bit of loveliness in today.

The purple vase is in honor of the purple spider that guards our basil in the garden. Spiders are one of my least favorite things, but our basil is bug free which IS one of my favorite things.

The flowers are from my rutabaga plants. Yes, rutabaga flowers. How's that for finding something lovely in an odd place? We had a rutabaga this winter that was past its usefulness, so I experimented to see if it would take root like sweet potatoes. I will let you know if we get any rutabagas.

Vintage China, Everlasting Flower Gardens

2011-09-03T05:53:00.000-05:00

If only we could keep summer sunshine caught in a morning glory to last all of the time.

I've said it before, and I will say it again, my flowered china is my winter garden.

It has the added benefits of being pest free, weed free, and disease free, unlike my real flower gardens.

I can grow any type of flower despite the season, zones, or growing conditions. Azaleas in Wisconsin, no problem.

These morning glories are still self-seeding from our second year here in this home. They are about as care free as a flower can be. Even they only last one day.

These pieces are all available in the shop if you are like me, and can never have too many flowers.

They combine two of my loves, dishes and flowers.

Maybe that is why I like to mix and match dishes so much, then they are like a real flower garden.

At least the flower gardens I like, cottage style.

Don't even get me started on vintage hankies, a flower garden in your pocket!

A Bit of Blue Embroidery

2011-09-02T05:32:00.000-05:00

Good Morning Everyone!

It's bound to be one of those days today. Do you ever just want to hide away with your embroidery? Maybe it would be your sewing machine or favorite mixing bowl. We've had a few chaotic weeks, and I am craving a quiet day.

This is a hotpad that I finished recently. Although I am not fond of working with wool, I really like crewel style embroidery. This is a vintage pattern that I acquired in a mixed group.

If you want to know what happens when you are in too much of a hurry to put your walking foot on your sewing machine, just take a look at the quilting around the edge. Since it is going to get messy grabbing sheets of chocolate chip cookies, quiche, and roasted turkeys from the oven, I figure it is would be okay.

Sigh. Well, the day awaits. Hey, I know. Why don't you all have a lovely peaceful day and tell me all about it. That way I can come back tonight and live vicariously through all of you. Don't let me down!

Candlewick Candle Holders Holding Sunshine

2011-09-01T06:35:00.000-05:00

Candlewick Candle Holders holding sunshine instead of candles. We have had glorious, glorious sunshine lately. Perfect sunshine for playing with vintage glassware.

I did not even realize when I was taking this photo that you could see bubbles within bubbles. I am not sure I could have done this intentionally!

The way the light pools in the bottom of the candle holders hilights one of the differences between finer and regular glass. The Imperial Glass Company made the Candlewick pattern, and they really knew their stuff. The new copies just do not compare.

Shadows too! These nice wide bases let me prance around taking all sorts of fun photos with out a wobble or a shake.

Oh, hey, would you like to actually see this pair. Yes, they are in the shop. Yes, I have stopped playing with them. Then again, if they're not gone by Christmas I may have to photograph them with the Christmas Tree lights shining in them. Oooh, what a great idea!

I wonder if anyone else will have vintage glassware today at Vintage Thingie Thursday?