Hanging Out with a Midcentury Modern Tapestry
JS sent me a 1980’s Polish handwoven and artist designed midcentury modern tapestry titled “Na Stoku,” meaning “On Slope.” At fifty-four by fifty inch. She wonders about the wool craft …
Reflecting on a Concave Mirror
JR sent me a find from a shed in Victorville, a vintage glass parabolic concave mirror framed in a crude wood box at fourteen inch diameter. What did people use …
9 Tips to Simplify Your Home and Life
For my birthday month, I decided to simplify my home, and my life for my next year. I canvased experts and amassed a guide. I thought MY list might help …
Thunder Mug Not For Bathroom Use
LY, a quite proper frequent reader, surprised me. He sent a recent purchase of a thunder mug. Educated in Britain, I remembered the term for the chamber pot as the …
I FINALLY Researched Antonio Stagnoli
Antonio Stagnoli painted this midcentury modern piece that hung in my dining room for thirty-three years. Don’t remember where I found it, probably a thrift store. I never looked up …
Shedding Light on an Oil Lamp
CS sent me a recent find at the wonderful Destined for Grace Thrift Store in Goleta. A 19th century Nautical Oil lamp that somebody electrified. The story of her lamp …
Dividing Up Your Possessions for Your Kids
How do you avoid a family melt-down? Who wants WHAT? WHY? And HOW to divide equitably? My experience counseling families allows me to suggest the following: Step One Discuss what …
Having a Ball with a Regency Fan
BE sent me an 1810 folding Regency fan used in ballrooms in England, a Battoir (batting) fan of silk, embroidered with sequins and painted. The painted scene shows an elegantly …
Diego Rivera Possible Original Treasure
SJ showed me a drawing before she framed it. She thought it an original Diego Rivera when she saw it in Ventura at the Boys and Girls Club Thrift store. …
Japanese Singing Bowls “Sound Bath”
After eighteen months we need deep relaxation, muscle regeneration, and better concentration. HOW TIMELY that JF sent me two “singing” bowls from his home altar. His collection of Japanese standing …