I'm here! It's been a really busy couple of weeks. I won't bore you with the details because I know that everyone is busy. I don't want you to think that I think I am the only one. How selfish that would be! So how are you all? I can't wait to take time tonight and read the blogs on my sidebar. I have missed catching up.

Some possibly interesting tidbits of the past week:

Blair lost her first tooth! Uh oh. Tooth fairy came! I had to go check...

I finally decided on a paint color for the kitchen. Let's see, that only took a year and 5 months and 30 paint sample pots.

I had a photo shoot marathon before the good weather went away. Crazy but fun.

The bank accidentally closed our accounts but reopened them when we went in to see what was wrong. Because of their mistake they gave us a cash bonus. Kinda like a signing bonus when you go into the NBA or something. It wasn't a million bucks but it wasn't expected either. We were really shocked and happy. Now if they could just straighten out our direct deposit we'd be more happy! It's still floating around in cyberspace...

I found a bunch of old maps, between 1939-1944, in perfect condition for 50 cents. Fitty. The colors are gorgeous. I can't wait to show you them. My first plan was to make cards. But after opening them up, I may not bring myself to cut them up. We'll see. I still have other ideas. One being plastering a wall with them as wallpaper. Yes, there are that many.

Ok, I'm off to Book club this morning. Have a good day!

Marathon sessions...

A little thrifting is good for you

Isn't it?

I was at the thrift shop last week on a mission to find some Halloween costume items. I scrapped that and went to the big box store where I bought them off the rack. It was just easier that way.

But while I was at the thrift shop...I did find a few items.

Scarves - You can always find nice scarves and if you look for a signed one, that is even better. Many people get them for gifts and never wear them so they end up at the thrift shop still in mint condition. I've seen vintage de la Renta, Claiborne and Bill Blass for only $2.00 which can fetch $44.00 in vintage clothing shops. If you ever see a Jean Patou, let me know.

This one was only $1.00 so it came home to be a table runner. I just fringed some burlap, threw on the scarf and it was done.


Serving tray - The other I had was too small for the large ottoman. When I saw how well made this was with metal handles and the price only $1.99, I didn't hesitate.

And after a coat of paint, it takes center stage with a Homegoods vase and those leaves that I glue to things.




The biggest purchase was this super large series of school maps. There are 38 total from 1950 and are all in good condition except for the front cover. It needs to be repaired. They are mounted to a steel rod that used to hang up in a classroom. I have been toying with the idea of wallpapering a wall in the family room with maps or painting one. My kids love maps as well as Jon and I. When I saw this I had to get it just in case we end up going that route.
Ha ha, no pun intended...

And so ends my wrap up of thrifty finds. What have you found out there lately?

Have a safe and happy night of trick-or-treating!

Oh and there's still time to win that magazine subscription...

Stop on by The Thrifty Things' Making Friends Monday

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linking to A house of grace , Just a girl, Sugar Bananas

and Under the table and dreaming