A Piece of History

I LOVE a find, especially when it has a little history. Every time I visit family in Pampa, Texas, it's a tradition of mine, and my mom's, to stop into our favorite store, Trash to Treasures. You never know what you'll find in there. It smells like a dingy, old basement, but it's all worth it. It's not too big and the store is jam packed of vintage finds. 

On my last visit to Pampa, I stopped in and picked up a very old collection of antique records dating back from the 1910's and 1920's. I've never been a record enthusiast, but the collection spoke to me and I walked out with two huge albums. So excited about my new find, I knew I needed something to play these records on. 

For me, not just any record player would do the job. This is when I can get a little nutty. Once I have a vision, it's not easy to see anything else. In my mind, I was thinking of playing these records on a record player that also dated back to the early 1900's. So then began my search of finding an antique Victrola. 

I found this one on Craigslist for a great deal. It definitely takes you back to an era. When the music plays, I feel like I'm in an episode of Boardwalk Empire and I love it! Music has come such a long way since the beginning of the 1900's, and owning a little piece of nostalgia makes you realize just how far we've come. 

What little piece of history do you own?? I'd love to hear about it!

Also, please be cautious when using Craigslist. I've always had good experiences with doing business on Craigslist, but I have to say be careful!  With all the recent news and incidents associated with Craigslist, I have to say be careful and cautious of who your doing business with. Never meet someone alone and always use good judgement!!

Rocking Along

It's been a fun filled day thus far this lovely Friday morning. The DMV has had me waiting almost two hours. Luckily my trips to the DMV are few and far between.

On a more enjoyable note, I wanted to share my latest project with you and show you some before and afters. It's such beautiful time of year and a great time to spruce up the backyard. I know for me, I'm looking forward to many BBQ's and being with friends.

I've had these rockers given to me years ago and they never tire. They've gone through some wear and tear (as you can see). These are some before's I captured. With so many coats of paint throughout the years, it was time for some sanding. Very simple to do. Just make sure you wear a mask.

{In need of some TLC}

{Side table before}

All you need is a simple sander, stain, and some spray paint.

I chose a brighter green (Leafy Green) in satin and put on a light Lacquer to finish them off. I like the Satin over the Flat!

Viola...several hours later, here are the after's. 

{Stained it a black finish}

{Makes a cozy sitting place}

{Also spray painted this table yellow and bought some new outdoor yellow pillows to tie it together}

This is my next project for the backyard. I'm going to sand this one down and finish it off with some teak oil.

Have a great weekend!!

New Find! Love Craigslist!

It's been awhile since my last post and lot's of progress with the house thus far. I haven't posted pictures yet because things are still not quite finished yet. With work and running around, I haven't been able to get everything done yet and I know I'm not expected too. It definitely takes time and I don't want to rush the process.

I've been trying to focus on one room at a time, but I've been a little all over the place. Today I'm excited to show you my find on Craigslist. I've been wanting an iron bed for the guestroom and found one today! $75 dollars!! Can't beat it. I've already got it home and cleaned it up real well. The seller told me the original buyers loved antiquing and flea markets. He believes the iron bed was picked up during the 1950's and possibly as old as the turn of the century, no older than the 1920's. Very cool. He also threw in an old singer sewing machine that I can use as a plant stand somewhere.

Sometimes it's so easy to run out and buy what you need rather than waiting and taking the time to find something you love. For me, I shop around (A LOT) and wait for it to find me.

                                                     {bed frame for guestroom via Craigslist $75}

{breakfast dining via Craigslist $350}

{fabric for chairs via Cutting Corners}

Thanks for stopping by! More to come. Just bought some great new fabric for a few projects in the works.

Time for beddy byyy. Have a great day!