Old China and a Softer Side

First of all, let me put in a sort of disclaimer. For those that don't know, I really do have a soft side. I have a spot in my heart for most things vintage. I love the contrast of new and old, soft and hard, black and white. I have a corner of my soul reserved for nostalgic things. ...sigh... Deal with it.



With Spring upon us, it's time for my annual stock-up for the Farmer's Market. I hunt for containers throughout the off-season. A completely underestimated source for supplies to ease my itch for containers and boxes is the DI. (AKA Deseret Industries - a second hand shop for those that may not be aware.) I often go there and I am able to find some unrealized treasures. I think second hand and thrift shops are fantastic. (But for some reason, the DI is just different; as I exit, I honestly feel like I need a shower.) Now given, I have a bit of a fetish with boxes and bowls (which can include cups, jars, and other containers). But maybe that's why my radar is so fine-tuned and able to spot something ho-hum that can be transformed into something hallowed. A prime example are these teacups. To look at them alone, they are really nothing the special. At a whopping $0.50 each, I bought a few. And then if you want a little more interest than just the cups, buy a $0.75 saucer or two. The cups and saucers did not come paired, but I think they pair well. And so, for a mere $1.25, you have a one-of-a-kind (or two-of-a-kind) container that will make that dinky $2.00 plant that much more special. The teacups with plants you see here are what we gave our mothers on Mother's Day. Something simple and small, and is a simple and small token of what is felt for our moms. And behind the scenes, they come to a grand total of $3.25 each. But don't tell mom.