I am trying my hardest to get things done around here so I can get back to being an active participant with my posts. It seems lately I’ve been a bit missing in action. Every day we get a little closer to being finished… and soon, I’m hoping I will be…
Today I just have some odd ball things to share with you… I hope you find something in all this that makes you smile.
Remember when I said I didn’t find anything on the Ladies Day Out excursion? Well, that wasn’t exactly true… I found a kitty lamp, and I liked him very much the moment I saw him. He was a vintage looking lamp done in antique brass or cast iron or some kind of heavy metal and he had a glass body. He was a lamp!
Something about him just made me keep thinking about him and even though I didn’t get him Saturday, I told my hubby about liking him and he said we could go back to the shop and see if he was still there… besides, he wanted to stop at a place called Golden Goodies and see if they had a nightstand for the guest room.
Well, we went back to Warehouse Antiques and sure enough, HE WAS STILL THERE! I bought him and now he’s mine! I don’t know anything about the markings on him…
He looks like this when he’s in the dark…
…and like this when I use a flash.
He’s a nightlight I think… about 12″ tall or so… and we like him… I guess I need to think of a name for him. He has a bow, but I’ve been calling him a he since I saw him.
Okay, then on the way back from the antique store, we stopped at Golden Goodies and my hubby found THIS! I can’t believe he found it… it was covered with all kinds of Christmas stuff and could barely be seen…
It’s a vintage solid wood desk that has a drawer that slides in. It’s got so much character and the more I looked at it when we got it home, the more I really liked it… here is it when he first carried it in…
He went out to walk Reuben and I carried it back to the guest room… well… I was ON my way to the guest room when I took a pit stop and sat it down in front of my curtains… Hmmmm… I like it here, I thought!
But before he came back in, I hurried and put it in the guest room…and put Mr. Kitty on top…
This morning after a meeting, I went looking for a few things… and one of them was some new knobs for the little desk, or nightstand…
I bought some at Hobby Lobby (50% off this week) and thought I would like these… but when I put them on… I didn’t.
One leg had to be unscrewed to get the drawer out… Look at the bottom of this piece…
I remembered I had some extra knobs from my kitchen cabinets so I got a couple of them and tried them out… and of course sent a picture to Cindy, who said, “yes, much better!”
Here it is in the guest room for now…
Isn’t it a cute little thing?
This morning I wanted to find a few things we needed in the room… One was new curtain rods. When we were painting Rebecca’s room, I just bought these 1/2″ rods and they just weren’t heavy enough to hold up those heavy black-out curtains. They were sagging on the right side…
So today I went to Home Goods, where I had bought the rod for my sitting room curtains and they had TWO rods ON SALE! Score! So I got them and we put them up… but I forgot to leave them open so you can see the 1″ rods… maybe tomorrow…
Needless to say, my bed will have to be made again…
I stopped by the Goodwill as it was on my way to mail Addy’s dress at the Post Office… I found this little cutie…
…although she’s not TOO cute in this picture… It’s Kendall, a 14″ American Girl Wellie Wishers doll. I just had to rescue her and it will be nice for me to see JUST HOW CLOSE my dresses fit her, as some sellers on Ebay say, they can wear the same things as the Ruby Red Fashion Friends dolls. Now I can see for myself…
Her hair was in little braids and was a total disaster… I took them out and tried brushing it out with a wig brush… this is what I ended up with…
I’ll see if I can’t get her presentable before you see her the next time…
Oh and one more thing… my hubby hung my antique mantle mirror in the hallway where it was before I painted… It looks like it’s a bit low, but I’m 5′ 4″ and I have to stand on my tippy toes to see my whole face. It’s just that the walls are 8 1/2′ tall…
Well, I need to get to bed. I have to get up early tomorrow morning…
Did you smile at something?
See you tomorrow,
Blessings, Jeanne
What terrific finds, Jeanne!! I think you’ve already named your new cat–“Mr. Kitty”, you called him! Or you could call him “Beau” (bow…). He’s a real conversation piece, and will add a lot of character wherever you use him!
The little desk is wonderful. I’m with you–those new (HL) knobs didn’t look right–too bright for the color of the desk–but the extras from your kitchen were perfect.
Kendal is a cutie. You might try using a little liquid fabric softener on her hair, which hopefully will tame it some. What I’ve done with rescued dolls in the past, is to shampoo their hair with a tiny dab of shampoo, then dilute some fabric softener with maybe 3/4-1 c. of water, and pour it over the hair. Do not rinse, just squeeze out the excess, and towel it to remove enough moisture so you can comb it out. If I set dolly hair, I use perm rods (usually) and end papers, which really help smooth the ends of the hair further.
I may have a little announcement in a few days–stay tuned!!
Ron’s appt. with his cardiologist is tomorrow. Will keep you all posted.
Hi Jeanne,
IMHO since the desk/end table is from 1919, I’d leave the original knobs, if they’re not broken. It appears they are carved and may be original. I believe Mr. Kitty and the end table are “finds.” You did very well, both items are interesting and functional. Absolutely loved your group shopping video and photos.
I’ve been a stay-in so long it was exhilarating to watch that video. I looked at it three times, lol. Someone in every neighborhood across the country should make “Virtual shopping Videos.” Imagine feeling like your walking down the isles!
I know if you heat up the water while washing your new dolls hair it might relax and go back to normal…maybe!
https://encrypted-tbn2.gstatic.com/shopping?q=tbn:ANd9GcSK9SV2Lb6jee7jtPzsHrEVOQwGlRVNb5st1o5fCgoMvasqXPw
This link. Might take you to what her hair looked like.
What a nice variety of things, today, Jeanne! The little desk is really a find! I too would keep the original knobs, but put them in the drawer for safekeeping. I do prefer the black knobs too, but if would be good to keep the original ones if you ever do sell or get rid of the desk in the future. We inherited a beautiful secretary from my in-laws, but the original brass knobs were not in great shape, so we bought new ones to match, but kept the original ones and put them in drawer so they wouldn’t get separated. The secretary looks brand new now, although it is over 100 years old.
Oh, I love that kitty lamp! What a find, and it fits so well in your house!
That little Kendall is such a cutie when she is brand new, thanks to Nanette for showing us! Good luck with that hair!I have never had a doll with hair in that condition, so could not begin to tell you how to fix it, short of getting a new wig for her! I’m sure you don’t want to go to that route just for fitting purposes!
Enter 1996 TIN CHI in Search and have fun! I won’t spoil the surprise by providing details here except to say you’ve scored again.
Moving the wonderful little desk a little closer to the bed so it covers the outlet and wrap the cord so it does show and you’re in business. I’ve never seen anything remotely like this darling little desk. I’d have left the original knobs, but that’s just me. You are truly the Thrift and Antique Store Queen.
I’m with Joy on no serving dishes on the table so a seasonal centerpiece can shine with refills available on a buffet or in the kitchen so everyone can help themselves. Also I recently came across The Art of The Table, a website where people share pictures of their table settings. There are such a variety that everyone can also find inspiration with what they have on hand. Also table runners and placemats are easy to make. There is everything from a setting one would see in the White House or Buckingham Palace down to breakfast in your own kitchen. Remember table settings are a hobby of mine. Jeanne, you have a lot of things in your China cabinet for starters. Have fun!
I enjoyed the vicarious trip yesterday and loved the buildings, outside and in. I love looking for antiques and almost always can find a piece of Haviland I want to live with.
The desk is a lovely find. I like it with your curtains. I do think you need more of that fabric,
As for the cat, if you google Tin Chi, you’ll find a lot, like this lovely picture https://avaluers.org/explore/4063884-amber_art_glass_and_bronze_cat_lamp_1996_tin_chi_andrea_by_sadek
Here’s some basic information:
History of Andrea by Sadek Andrea by Sadek, (pronounced AN-dree-uh by Say-dek), also known as Charles Sadek Import Company or J. Willfred is headquartered in New Rochelle, New York. The company was founded in 1936 by Charles and Norman Sadek and is still owned and operated by the Sadek family. Currently, Charles’ son, Jim, his wife, Sandra manage the day-to-day operations with a faithful staff of customer service reps, shippers, designers and product developers. The name sake of the company, Andrea, is Jim’s sister and Charles Sadek’s daughter; she is heavily involved in the design of Sadek’s products. Andrea by Sadek works with factories around the world to create over 3,000 unique designs for the table, kitchen and home. Each product is high-quality and is sold at exceptional pricing. Sadek is a leader in the gift and tableware industry, often rolling out hundreds of new products each year. Sadek’s beautifully hand-crafted bisque porcelain flower figurines and bird figurines, a huge collection of figural salt and pepper shakers, tea sets and tea accessories, museum collection, lamps, dinnerware and much more are ideal for collectors and designers alike. In 2004, Andrea by Sadek created their Historic Museums Collection – a conglomerate of famous porcelain dinnerware patterns and decorative accessories from the Winterthur Museum, the Biltmore Estate, Mount Vernon, Colonial Williamsburg, Newport Mansion and the Smithsonian Institute. The pieces gathered were reproduced from Sadek’s factories and sold under the name of the museum or historic home where it was found. Parts of this collection are still available today for purchase. Andrea by Sadek has showrooms in Atlanta, Dallas, Las Vegas, Los Angeles, New York and at their corporate headquarters and warehouse in New Rochelle, NY.
There does not appear to be a Wikipedia article, but here is the google images page:
https://www.google.com/search?q=sedak+tin+chi&client=firefox-b-1-d&sxsrf=AOaemvI7RBZEQU_coNQdcEIh_Xslyo1dYg:1637069091971&source=lnms&tbm=isch&sa=X&ved=2ahUKEwj948vN_Zz0AhVOk2oFHV1LC60Q_AUoA3oECAEQBQ&biw=1716&bih=955&dpr=1
That cat has some personality! He looks very pretty being a lamp.
Kendall was a wonderful find! I hope you enjoy her lots.
I hope you don’t mind if I share that I lost my little baby this a.m. He or she was so young, we don’t know the gender. We buried her by Rita Philomena (our other one).
Oh, Karen. This is such sad news. My heart, prayers,and hugs go out to you.
I just saw this too, Karen… may the Lord wrap His loving arms of comfort around you and may you literally feel them.
You will be in our prayers
Blessings, Jeanne
Karen that is so sad, I’m sending prayers and hugs to you as well
Thank you a lot, Anne! That is very kind of you <3
Thank you very much for your kind words and all your prayers, Jeanne! They are appreciated <3
Thank you so much, Sally <3
Dear Karen, So very sorry to hear the sad news. Have peace in knowing that your little one is safe in Jesus’ loving arms. Sending prayers for comfort to you and your family
Thank you so much, Laura! <3
So sorry life has given you a bad turn. Hope you are seeing the doctor to prevent any complications. Thinking of you and your lovely family.
Thank you, Joy! <3
Oh Karen, I am so sorry to hear your news. Praying for you and God’s healing powers. Love to you!💕🙏
Thank you, Linda! I appreciate your prayers! <3
Oh Karen… I’m so very sorry! My heart is breaking for you. Praying God comforts you and your hubby.
Thanks so much, Ingrid! <3
Dear Karen, I am so sorry for your loss. I pray that you will find comfort with friends and family.
Thank you, Dorothy 🙂 <3
I am so sorry, Karen. You and yours are in my prayers.
How fun. Looks like most of us immediately Googled Tin Chi and found Andrea von Sadek . Love that the cat came in at least two colors. Your pretty pink and a lovely amber. I also found more cute things in the same lamp mode by Tin Chi. Some being a bunny, snail, and lady bug to name a few. 🙂
I love the little desk, but I’m not happy that someone painted the lovely piece. If it belonged to me, I would immediately strip off that paint and get it back to the original leaving those lovely knobs in place. You can see the original color on the bottom which is nice. It is a very cute piece and looks like it works in many places. Definitely from the 20’s as the leg bracket indicates. How nice that you were able to find it. 🙂
Poor Kendall looks like she has had a bad hair day. Must have been mistreated by someone. I know Jeanne will get her back into shape though. And I too have heard that both the RRFF dolls and Wellies can share. Guess we’ll find out. 🙂
So, have the baseboards on the wall under the mirror been installed? Not sure when you took that photo. Love the mirror. Always wanted one. 🙂
Glad Jeanne found some fun pieces to add to her lovely home.
Good morning!
I guess you really had great success on your day out with the gals. No surprise to any of us, though we did not hear what you had for lunch at The Vault. What fun and what memories seeing the pictures from your gal pal outing; I always loved going to antique collectives, as much as I loved going to Home Goods and Marshall’s . I never left empty handed. So…good for you and congratulations.
That cat could easily be a guy. My father-in-law wore a bow tie every day to work, of course, tying them on his own. His name was Henry. That, dear Jeanne, is a handsome dude and fine catch. Thanks to Marilyn and Susette for further info on this fellow.
The little desk? Absolutely darling and so unusual. I am in the same camp as the other sisters…keep the original knobs because they belong. The kitchen ones may achieve the look you like, but I’m an “original equipment “ old bat myself. Definitely keep it in the guest room. That little side table with the drawers is much better in front of those gorgeous (unlined) curtains in the sitting room. Yup. Had to say that, Jeanne. My bad.
As for Miss Kendall. That is one well and hard loved little doll. It doesn’t surprise me in the least that she hopped into your arms. That hair would scare the daylights out of me. Without doubt, some day we will see her and not recognize her because of her loving new mom. God bless you, Jeanne. As I have said before, you’re a real gem of the finest sort.
Well, one doll got by OK yesterday on delivery. I think my hubby may have brought in the box to put on the table, but because the seller put the shipper box into a much larger box, it didn’t “signal” another 15” doll. He is out today when another one will be delivered. Whew! So many dolls that had been preordered and then delayed in production…they are all coming home really close together. Shudder!
Well, ladies, and yes, we can use the term “girls” amongst ourselves just because….have a jolly day and good luck with Ron’s appointment tomorrow, Charlotte. And you have alerted my radar with that teaser!
What great finds! I love that little desk. So sweet. Thanks to Marilyn and Susette for the links. I love when people do that. It makes it easier to get more information on things people post without having to remember to do a search.
Oh my gosh whatever happened to poor Kendall?! I can’t even imagine what you do to totally destroy what was once an adorable hairdo. I only have one Wellie, Camille, but if I buy another it will be Kendall. She is precious. I would have never in 100 years imagined her looking like this. Charlotte offered some really good suggestions for bringing this Phoenix back from the ashes but you surely do have your work cut out for you.
Sounds like Sally is not having to do any dodging and weaving to get all her new family members into the house. Fate has definitely intervened. Speaking of doll’s arriving, By the Sea Maya should be arriving any day now. I don’t know what it is about that doll and her crazy hairdo that makes me smile but she sure does. I’m looking forward to having her join the family. She actually reminds me of Jennifer Grey in “Dirty Dancing”.
David just left for the shop accompanied by his pack horse Jason. David has enough with just getting himself there but he is glad to be back on his feet. He took a jacket today to put over his knees. Aside from his knee getting cold yesterday he did very well. It’s been two weeks today since his knee surgery. He will see the doctor on Thursday.
I was thinking his appointment was today but he reminded me last night it was the 18th. Yippee!!! I will have the day to do as I please. Well maybe not totally. Andrea sent me a cap to embroider an “A” on it for grandson Anderson and Dionne gave me three onesies to embroider something on them for Azure. It’s been months since I’ve embroidered anything and I’m looking forward to returning to doing that. Then maybe some more dolly sewing. I have some that still need Christmas/holiday attire.
I forgot to mention, I visited the website of Jo’s Doll Shoppe the other day and found to my dismay that Jo will be fully retiring at the end of the year. While she was no longer selling the Heartstring dolls nor designing any new clothes, she was taking orders for the remaining clothes she had on her site. She is selling things for reduced prices but is no longer taking orders for the Heartstring and Tiny Betsy clothes. But there are things like underwear, socks and shoes and several other things that anyone with those size dolls might be interested in.
Your Ladies’ Day Out was fun to see, but I never made it in time to comment.
Love your kitty lamp, I certainly would have bought that if the price had been right. His bow could be a bow tie.
I’m echoing what others have said, but the little desk is lovely and I too would strip the paint off and restore it to it’s former glory and use the darling knobs it came with.. I am an “originalist” also as by now I’m sure you know. I’m also a fan of it in the guest room where it doesn’t compete with the curtains.
Kendall will be a cute addition to your dolls. There’s a lady on AGPT (Katherine) who has Kendall as Addy’s sister Esther and other WW representing other AG book as well as other book characters. She dresses them historical and they are just darling.
Wow…what a myriad of topics! Love the little desk…and I love it the color it is… you can always strip it someday when you need a project. Right now another project doesn’t sound like fun.
The little Wellie Wisher will be just fine when you get her hair tamed…you have all kinds of suggestions..//I use Johnson and Johnson No More Tangles.
Yeah Sally for welcoming your new dolls! Send us pics!
David is doing so well…another couple weeks and he will really be moving.
What do you have to surprise us with Charlotte?
Have to work on a 100″ long red cape ( think a Queen) …wishing it was done doesn’t help so better get busy.
Dear Jeanne, I am glad your cat waited for you. What does Reuben think? Are they friends (laugh).
I like the desk also. It’s over 100 years old. Wow!
Congratulations on your Kendall find. I’ve seen many blog posts where people have shared that they’ve found AG dolls at their Goodwill or other Thrift shop. It boggles my mind. I’ve never seen ANYTHING like that at the Goodwill stores in my area. The stuff they DO have is junk, and the prices are a bit out of line. Sigh.