Mementos

Happy Valentine’s Day!

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A Beautiful Start to the New Year

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At Room With a Past things are changing constantly. For a couple of months the reds, greens and golds of the holidays were all over the shop. Then we celebrated the new year with our annual ‘deal with the dealers’ opening on New Years Day. We wore pajamas (seriously!) and for five hours it was a shopping frenzy for customers that come out to celebrate the first day of the new year with us. It was CRAZY FUN!!!

So the New year started out looking something like this (taken a couple of years ago on 1/1!):

(we love what we do, can you tell?!!!)

And looked like this a few weeks later:

Beautiful, isn’t it?! A shoppers and decorators dream at every turn.

Come see us soon, you’ll love what the new year brought to Room With a Past!

Happy New Year!!!

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Merry Christmas!!!

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Christmastime is here….

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…a line from a song one of my favorite movies, ‘A Charlie Brown Christmas’.

While we put the finishing touches on the holidays…take time to remember the reason for the season…hold your loved ones close, and cherish your time together.

A few photos of the Hadster over the years with his buddy “Santa Bob”…

May he always believe!!!

These are a few of my favorite things…

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…the holidays are a wonderful time to enjoy things that bring us joy, and reflect on favorite memories. Things like a shelf of vintage collectibles, an ornament on a tree, or a skating Santa and Mrs. Claus take us back to a simpler time…

My grandmother had an assortment of ‘spaghetti’ Santas and angels. As I got older I found great delight in collecting some of my own…

This happy skating couple (I adore Annalees) takes me back to the days of my childhood…

Hubsters favorite things include a tree with nothing but Coke Ornaments on it…this little treasure chest is delightful! I remember that tray from when I was young and he loves the tiny vintage bottles, the old-fashioned radio and the kite.

Holiday touches everywhere in our home…even the top of the fridge gets a tiny vingnette of tasty treats.

Enjoying a cookie party with dear friends…and the most amazing cookies ever. A tradition started by my mom and her friends more than 50 years ago.

A visit to my favorite shop… ’Antiques and Things’ in Pacheco (CA) always has the perfect blend of prim, country and holiday decor in one lovely place!

And last but not least…what I do. A recent holiday boutique with a festive table of vintage and country inspired seasonal crafts by Mementos.

Happy holidays…best wishes for an enjoyable season with family and friends making your own memories!

Mandi & family

Happy Thanksgiving

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Make Room for the holidays!

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If there is one thing we do well at Room With a Past, it is the holidays! The shop is packed to the chandelier laden ceiling with the most amazing holiday décor, gifts and furnishings. Around every corner there is something special to see…

There is room…

After room…

After ROOM

Of beautiful holiday color, everywhere you look! There really is something for everyone on your shopping list, and fabulous home décor too!

See you at the ROOM!
m

A little holiday break…

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(I wish!) While my head and hands are busy creating for holiday shows and Room With a Past openings, my heart is here:

I took this picture in May of 1987, just a few days before I moved back to the mainland from Hawaii. I’m lucky to say I lived there, in paradise, for four wonderful years. I studied Hawaiian History (ok, accounting too!) at the University of Hawaii, Manoa, and worked at KITV, the ABC ‘affiliate’ in Honolulu. Fab.U.Las! Most amazing experience ever!!!

Hawaii is one of those places that, once you have been there, you’ll never forget it. It stays with you. It’s in my heart and on my mind all the time. Living there gave me such joy, and I took so much away with me…in memories, and knowledge, and a love for the people and the culture there. I still listen to Hawaiian music frequently, and think of the islands often. It’s my ‘go to’ happy place when I need to escape from life for a little while! Just a few notes of a favorite Hawaiian tune and I’m laying on the beach…in the warm sun…listening to the waves.

Aloha!
m

Happy Halloween!

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Hope your day was BOO-TIFUL!

In full swing of fall!

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The countdown is on! Mementos does holidays in a BIG way this time of year! Several fall shows (not to mention the Room With A Past openings!) down, and the biggest one of the year next week. The Country Collective at the Alamo (CA) Women’s Club is one you do NOT want to miss! Showtime is Thursday night October 20th through Saturday the 22nd at 3pm. All handcrafted holiday gifts and décor for every taste. As if that isn’t enough, the gals in the kitchen spend 3 days making homemade pies, they bake them there during the show. YUM-O!!!

A hint of the Mementos halloween table…

Spooky stuff! More soon, back the the dungeon to get more done!

Come Sit For a Spell…

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But don’t sit too long…there is a lot more to see! The Room With a Past OUTDOOR sale was this weekend, wow was there a lot of great stuff to buy! Some really amazing furniture bargains, home décor and holiday items too. The chair you see was one of the first things to FLY out the door – it was gone as soon as we opened! A little more of my stuff…

Oh and that adorable little white chair with the sheet music fabric on it? GONE TOO! In the first hour! On to a new home to be enjoyed…

Have a great week!

It’s FALL Y’all!!!

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Mementos celebrates fall at Room With A Past!!! ‘The Room’ is open this weekend. Stop in and feast your eyes on the fabulous fall décor, furnishings and gifts…you will be amazed and delighted at all that is fall!!! Shop to your hearts content indoors…and you do NOT want to miss the Outdoor Sale!!! Saturday and Sunday 9-4…see you there!!!

Happy Fall!!!

A ‘Frightful Fete’!

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Join us Sunday September 11th at the Blue Door in beautiful Livermore (CA!) for a special gathering of artists and antique dealers! Click on the photo below for more info…

See you there!

Destination Danville!

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The annual Heartland Danville Antiques and Art Faire is tomorrow…a Mementos tradition for Labor Day. Nestled among the trees in beautiful downtown Danville, it is always a treat. Amazing artists, antique dealers and entertainment make for an enjoyable day. And food – the FOOD!!! The restaurants in the area are wonderful!!!

Mementos celebrates FALL and HALLOWEEN at this show…time to get out the pumpkins and gourds, ghosts and goblins, and burlap! Gotta have burlap for your fall decorating!!!

Happy Fall Y’all!

Next stop…Paris!!!

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Mementos is travelling all the way to France this month! Well almost. We are doing a travel theme at Room With a Past. My space is stuffed with all kinds of fabulous items for home décor and gift giving.

Some of what you’ll find…

A FABULOUS window. “Paris Marche Aux Puces…Jewelry, Feathers, Flowers”… (a one-of-a-kind custom piece by Mementos! This vintage window is B.I.G.)

Hats and lamps, journals and tags, beautiful glassware, a SPECTACULAR 3 globe hanging lamp, canvas shopping bags, baskets and more!

Burlap wreaths, wire baskets, perfume bottles, a vintage serving tray, framed art…

A little of everything, just like a Parisian flea market!!! And of course, there has to be at least one of these:

My favorite lettered sign - ”Keep Calm and Carry On”…which can, by the way, be custom made to any size you want! Really! Email me for info…

Stop by this weekend and see what other travel treasures you can find at the Room. Click the logo below for more information…you’ll be so glad you did!

Mandi

Ahoy, Matey!

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Room With A Past was open this weekend the place was packed full-to-the-brim with amazing treasures! This fun fellow and his treasure chest of fabulous finds met customers at the door…

…and there was more shopping than a land-lubbing, vintage-loving shopper could wrap their hands around at every. single. turn.

I can safely say that if you did NOT get into the ROOM this weekend, many of these treasures are GONE! But rest assured…the August opening will be just as spectacular.

Life’s a BEACH – find one and enjoy it today!

Happy Fourth of July!!!

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…or as we like to say…Land of the Free BECAUSE of the Brave!!! Have a spectacular holiday filled with family, friends, food and fun. Isn’t that what it’s all about?!

I Love Color!

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My taste in decorating has changed over the years…evolved from 80s Country (think red and blue, gingham and hearts) to Cottage white washed furniture and BIG cabbage roses. One thing that has never changed is my passion for COLOR! I love the ‘Shabby Chic’ look of a pale palette, but it just isn’t me. And I adore the Paris Apartment look of black, white and gold, and the ‘all white and cream’ look that is in now…but it’s not me either. I need COLOR! Lots of it. Reds, yellows, greens…in all shades. I’m even loving orange right now!

I’ve been going through photos of my space at Room With a Past from the last 5 years, it looks like my love for color was obvious there too!

The photo above was my first month at ‘The Room’ in April of 2006. This picture just makes me HAPPY. Those amazing cabinets flew out the door, oh how I hated to see them go!

Lots of pastels in the Spring of 2007 (above!). I get a kick out of bringing ‘imports’ in to the shop! That white cabinet on the right was imported from Orange, CA. lol

More color! Summer 2009, love the red and yellow ‘barn stars’ (up high) and the red, white and blue of the flag and 4th of July décor, and the mint/sage greens.

Dramatic colors here – red and black for Valentine’s Day 2010!!! I designed the ‘LOVE’ banner that hangs across the front…one of an ever-growing series of banner ‘kits’ I do that have become popular….and all are quite colorful.

The faded color of Vintage sheet music has to be one of my all-time favorite things to work with. It is on the bulletin board in the background, in the oval frame on the right, and it is decoupaged to the bottom of the tray on the chair. “Keep Calm and Carry On” has been a popular theme for several years now. You can find it framed, on note cards, pillows, on tags and lots of other places in my space…in all kinds of great colors.

Is burlap a color?! It should be, LOVE it! Have used it for years in my own decorating and add it to pillows, water bottle bags (top shelf, above) and make garlands from it. So versatile (and yes, quite messy!).

Which brings us to 2011 and a pretty pale space above from this spring! I don’t plan it so much as it just evolves around what I’ve recently gathered. Sometimes I’m drawn to whites/creams/burlap/sheet music, other times it is lots of color like this months gathering for the start of summer:

What’s YOUR favorite color?!

Welcome Summer!!!

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Mementos is celebrating the June opening of Room With a Past with a new CHALKBOARD BANNER kit! Ready to personalize (yes, with chalk) with your own greeting, or for a special event or occasion. The Banners are made with easy-to-care-for material (just wipe clean with a damp cloth!) and come in two sizes, either 4” or 6” long ‘pennants’, and are available in 10 letter and 15 letter lengths. Each banner comes with chalk and an idea sheet of things you can write to personalize your own banner. ‘Happy Birthday’, ‘Congratulations’, or ‘Merry Christmas’ fit nicely on the longer one, and ‘Princess’, I Love You’, or ‘Welcome!’ look great on the shorter one.

(Shown: one 10 letter banner with 4” ‘pennants”. 12” of ribbon on each end for hanging)

The banners are in the shop starting this weekend (see the link above for days and times!!), in assorted sizes and colors. They can be customized to your own needs…want more letters? A different color of ribbon? Lots of possibilities to choose from! Email Mementos for more details…just follow the ‘profile’ link on the right side bar.

Have a Sunny Summer!!!

Memorial Day…

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Take time today, and every day, to remember those that have served, and serve…

Celebrate any occasion…Mementos style!

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Chocolate and candy and water, oh my!!! Custom favors for ALL occasions. Birthday, wedding, shower…even a business opening or incentive, we make you look ohhh soooo good!

Email for more info…

And they lived happily ever after…

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Beautiful wedding!!! Enjoyed every moment…

Photo credit here

Beautiful color!!!

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Dogwood. PINK Dogwood! On the hunt for one for my yard! Found in Colfax, CA…on our quest to find lots of little antique shops on the way home from Tahoe. GORGEOUS weather, snow on the way up, and one night. Saw THIS on the way home -

Spectacular!!!

Spring Forward!!!

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I know, I know…we did that a few weeks ago. I mean spring changes to MEMENTOS!!! Lots of new ideas going on here at the design studio…can’t wait to share them with you! I downsized to one shop (Paris Flea Market was oooohhhh sooooo hard to leave!!!) so that I can spend more time on what I love the most…family, friends, Room With A Past, and other fun things too! I’m taking a few days off…time in Tahoe will clear my mind and get the creative juices going so I can get a fresh start next week.

See you in a few days, in the meantime, Have a Happy Easter!

Royal treatment…for the birds!

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Two themes this month at the Room! Mementos is still celebrating the Royal Wedding at the end of the month…

and lots…and I mean LOTS of nests, birds and butterflies have landed in our space! Spring has sprung! Word of the month is NEST – celebrated with a new BANNER KIT by Mementos, and lots of beautiful butterflies and birds!

Watch for FURNITURE and other new (ok, not so new, but new to the space!) home décor at the May opening!

Happy Spring!

Paris Flea Market!!!

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A ROYAL CELEBRATION is taking place at the Flea!!! Mementos has golden crowns, banner kits (see the banner at the top?!), Keep Calm and Carry On prints, and cards and tags for that special occasion, embellished with beautiful vintage wedding photos…

The crown theme carries on down the hallway…Debi always has lovely assortment of them!

Spring has sprung all over the shop in Easter Basket pastels!!!

Lots of birds have sprung up in Sharon’s spot!

And Paris Apartment decorating, of course! Ooohhh La Laaa!

Just one more day to shop before the Flea is closed for the month…Sunday 10-4, see you there!

Welcome to Mementos!!!

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Modern technology, oye! Photos for the Mementos designs blog for the last two PLUS years are out in webland somewhere…they disappeared!!! We’ll track them down…suffice it to say trying a new ‘photo storage service’ is not always a good idea. Until the photos can be hooked back up…we’ll just keep being creative!

One of the fabulous new projects Mementos is working on is for the Royal Wedding – these beautiful items and more will be at the Paris Flea Market this weekend. Stop in and SHOP, you will be glad you did!

Room With a Past is open next weekend, and SPRING is in the air! Mementos designs include a FAB lamp and beautiful vintage garden images in frames, on candles and more!

Last but not least, Mementos designed a special gift for an Eagle Scout in Had’s troop…

What are YOU doing to celebrate Spring?! Whatever it is…enjoy!!!

Glitterfest!!!

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Time to do some serious shopping!!!

Have a great weekend, I know we will!!! Click on the ad to go to their website…lots of great info on the show!

Family time…

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It’s been a busy time of year! The Hadster is finishing up his last year of Cub Scouts and we’ve had some pretty important events to attend to:

A night of Scouts and Survivor ‘Yao Man Chan’ – great fun hearing his tales of surviving Survivor!

And the annual making of the cake-for-auction, a s’more cake, made with REAL marshmallows (toasted just right on top!) and chocolate bars…

And receiving his ‘Arrow of Light’ at the annual Pack ‘Blue and Gold’ dinner…The stripes on the arrow signify his achievements in Cub Scouts, each set of stripes a rank or award. He is the only boy to have TWO purple stripes, signifying the Religious Emblem classes he took.

And then of course, the annual Pinewood Derby! He ‘ran’ a car he made several years ago…it won best of show back then…rolled in at the back of the pack of 4 cars this year but was fun nonetheless!

On to his new Troop and many more exciting adventures!

As for me…I’m having fun with bird nests, burlap pillows, vintage bird and egg prints, and some really fabulous sheet music printed fabric upholstered chairs!!! Room With a Past is open this weekend…don’t miss it!!!

Paris Apartment at Room With a Past!

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Room With a Past is open this weekend, and it has gone through an amazing transformation in the last month! Lots of new consignors with beautiful new (ok, old but new to the shop!) furniture and home décor…you will LOVE it!!!

Mementos moved to opposite side of the room…and has a whole new look for the month – Paris Apartment!

Won’t you come visit…sit a spell and enjoy a taste of Paris?!

See you at the Room!

Happy Valentine’s Day!

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To sweethearts everywhere!
m

She’s soooo sweet!

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A sweet princess bridal shower cake for a sweet princess! My adorable niece Sabrina, wearing the tiara her favorite auntie (me!) gave her. Lovely shower thrown by an amazing hostess. A perfect day for the bride! (and the cake – that doll really is standing in a cake – was FABULOUS!!!)

Here comes the BRIDE!!! The wedding is in a couple of weeks…on the cliffs in Laguna Beach!

A Bridal Shower…

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for my adorable niece Sabrina!!! A hint at the theme of the shower -

A fairy princess that lives near the beach, needs a starfish wand and sandcastle at her party! shhh…don’t tell her…we designed 'thank-you’ cards, candy wrappers and lots of other fun things for her special day. More pics soon!
The new year has brought many wonderful things to Mementos, custom orders for everything from shower favors to programs, badges and thank you gifts for a large Scout training event, and something fun for a gal named Daisy!
Room With a Past is open next week…you won’t believe your eyes, it will be spectacular!!! LOTS of fabulous new home décor, gifts and of course Valentines Day goodies!
m

Happy New Year!!!

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Happy New Year Wish

My Happy New Year wish for you
Is for your best year yet,
A year where life is peaceful,
And what you want, you get.

A year in which you cherish
The past year’s memories,
And live your life each new day,
Full of bright expectancies.

I wish for you a holiday
With happiness galore;
And when it’s done, I wish you
Happy New Year, and many more.

By Joanna Fuchs

Have a Happy New year!!!

Mandi

Merry Christmas to all…

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From our home to yours…we hope you had a Merry Christmas. Ours was spent with family and friends, in my hometown of Anaheim (CA!). Where ever your holidays were spent, may they have been everything you hoped for.

Peace on Earth!

Merry Christmas Eve!

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Spending time with family in friends in Orange County! A few of the festive things we saw on our shopping trip in Old Towne Orange. Always colorful outside Victoria Co:

FABULOUS vintage finds!

Have a Merry Christmas EVE!

It looked a lot like Christmas!!!

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The December opening of the Paris Flea Market opening was to.die.for. Spectacular from top to bottom. It was glitz and glam, sparkles and snowflakes, a winter wonderland indeed! A few of the highlights…

Stationery, tags, cards and gifts by Mementos (there was hardly anything left in this cabinet at the end of the sale!)

GORGEOUS handcrafted journals, altered bottles, velvet hearts, and much more from the very talented Sharon:

Vintage Christmas from Julie, the ‘Queen of Rustica’:

And the always lovely room of special finds from DebiO, the QUEEN of beautiful things!!

Much of what you see isn’t there anymore because it went home with happy customers! That gives us fleas a feel-good feeling, one because we LOVE to sell our wares, but also because we REALLY LOVE to SHOP! And the more we sell, the more we get to SHOP!

We’ll be open after the first of the year with more amazing home décor, beautiful things to keep or give and, as always, lots of one of a kind items.

Happy holidays!

Ho Ho Ho–Off to work I GO!

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The holidays are so much FUN at Room With A Past! Our last opening of the year is this weekend – starting today (Thursday 12/16!) we will be open for four MARVELOUS days of shopping. And let me tell you.

It is the BEST shopping you’ll find ANYWHERE!!!

Starting from the moment you walk in the door…

At every turn…

This month our shopping guests get tickets for a chance to WIN THIS TREE – AND a $100 Gift Certificate for a shopping spree!!!

Mementos went ‘boutique’ this month, lots of CUTE holiday gift ideas! Gift card holders, POPCORN stocking stuffers, candy cane treats…all wrapped up ready to take to the office or stuff in a stocking!!!

Stay tuned…more pictures to follow! Now I must be off to shop…er, WORK!

Happy Holidays!

Happy Ho-Ho-Holiday Boutique!

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The last of the holiday shows for the season was at my sons school. We made up a lot of fun boutique-y type crafts, sold lots, and gave a % of the sales to the Hadsters 5th grade class for their overnight camp later in the year. His little candy grab-bags were a hit, sold at $1 each and all the $ will go to camp too.

Lots of cute things, popcorn treats ‘Have a POPPY Christmas!’, gift card holders, Christmas Countdown’ Calenders (with a chalkboard insert so you can change the day – quite clever!)…

‘Ho-Ho-Holiday Hot Cocoa to Go’ cups, candy cane holders, and of course LOTS of vintage image tags and greeting cards. Something for everyone!

We had a great time, saw lots of friends from school, and were able to make a nice donation to the Camp fund!

One last shop opening for the year, Room With a Past is open NEXT weekend, stop by their Website for more info on what will be an amazing opening!

Happy Ho Ho Holidays!

Happy Thanksgiving

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From our home to yours…

May your day be filled with the wonderful blessings of family, friends and love. And food…don’t forget the food!
Here’s to a joyous holiday season!
m

Home for the holidays…

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One of my favorite places in the whole world is tucked away in an quaint antique shop in Pacheco California. As you stroll through Antiques and Things you’ll find wonderful collections of prim, cottage, rustic, vintage and antique furniture and décor, and collectibles. Something for everyone, as they say.

I love this shop…love the people…love the ‘feel’…it’s like a home away from home for me. It’s the place I go to see dear friends (and fellow dealers, I was in the shop for about 4 years!), and get a round of hugs every time I walk in the door. A wonderful group of people that have become so much more than just friends over the years. I love to spend time there shopping, visiting and just soaking in the wonderful ambiance of this lovely shop. it was so nice to see all the festive décor!

Here is my favorite spot in the whole shop…

Nothing soothes my soul more than a peek at my friend Bobbi’s space. Her wonderful old fashioned, colorful, barn-board and chipped paint downhome COUNTRY STYLE. When I walked in her room (above!) today, she was sitting in the white chair on the left. I said outloud what I think every time I walk in her room… “if you put a bed in here and I could LIVE here!”. So comfy and cozy, so crafty and country, SO ME.

Visiting my sweet friend inspired me to come home and start decorating for the holidays, a week early! I think I’ll start with the kitchen…I bought the most adorable tiny tree with twinkly lights, tiny wooden apples and sweet red gingham bows. I plugged it in as soon as I got it home, put on a pot of cider, popped a pan of gingerbread in the oven…

Let the holidays BEGIN!!!

Have a wonderful Thanksgiving week!

Christmas – Farm Chicks Style!

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In case you missed it…this is my new FAVORITE book ever!

Ohhhsooo lovely and filled with the most amazing photos, stories and holiday inspiration. While I have to admit to loving every photo in the book, a few have me thinking of some of my favorite memories of Christmas…

“Happy Memories” talks about sweet memories of childhood holidays…remind me of wonderful Christmas mornings at Grandma and Grandpas home (circa 1964!)

And “At Home for the Holidays” makes me think of their mountain home in Crestline (CA!) where we spent a lot of our holiday break hoping we’d get snowed in!

Every page of this WONDERFUL book is pure Christmas eye-candy. Full of colorful pictures, ideas and holiday inspiration.

Join Sarina at the Farm Chicks Blog to read all about her ‘virtual book signing’, and more about her book. I know you’ll enjoy it as much as I do!!!

“It’s the most wonderful time of the year”!

Cheers!
Mandi

Remembering Alamo 2010…

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Busy week at the Country Collective – an ‘all handcrafted’ show! Great fun, uber-talented women with lots of crafts for holiday gift-giving and decor. Mementos did Halloween:

And Christmas:

And PARIS!!!

Ohh La laaa…I had a great time!

On to the holidays!

The Happiest Book Ever!!!

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Trust me…you will LOVE IT!

(Photo from the Farm Chicks website.)

Spooky Stuff…

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The Resident Witches at the Paris Flea Market have been working their magic to bring you the spookiest opening yet! A taste of the haunting things you’ll see when you get there ~ ~ ~

“The Flea” is open this weekend, starting tonite (Thursday 10/7, 6-9pm, Friday, Saturday and Sunday 9-4).

See you there my little pretties!

A confession, and a winner!

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I have a confession! I’m hooked on, addicted to, have to use METHOD products! About 10 years ago I went on the hunt for the best ‘natural’ (no dyes, fragrances etc) products available. Back then there were not many choices, and most were expensive. Now they are everywhere and REALLY AFFORDABLE! I’ve tried many brands, Method has me hooked for life!

One of my other ‘loves’ is Danny Seo. He is the go-to guy for everything ECO-FRIENDLY and has the most amazing blog called ‘Daily Danny’'. Stop in to see it at: www.dailydanny.com . You’ll learn a lot about re-using, re-cycling and making your world a safer place to be. I’ve been a reader since 2006 and have learned so much about eco-friendly living!

I’m going on about this because Danny has amazing contests and I WON one of them! Not only did I win, but I won METHOD products!!!

Let the cleaning begin!!!

I took a week off from all things Mementos to re-group, get the studio re-organized (with an amazing find from Room With A Past!) and then it’s time for Halloween! Holiday shows are just around the corner!

Have a great week!

Photo credit www.dailydanny.com

Fall into something new!

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Fall is a great time to add a few new things to the ever-growing repertoire at Mementos. Paper, printing, fabric…all studio favorites so how about combining them?! Introducing pillows with some of my favorite images!

And burlap. Nothing says fall (or French country!) to me more than nubby ‘ol burlap!!! It made it’s way into bottle holders, pillows and table runners this month.

How about burlap AND a silhouette of kids marching in the spooky Halloween Parade? This fun piece didn’t last long at the Room With A Past opening this weekend, it sold shortly after being hung in my space to a collector all things Halloween (her words!)!

This is just the beginning of lots of new things here at Mementos, it is time to change things up a bit. Can’t wait to show you what is coming up next!

Have a great week!

Mandi

Fall…

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…into Room With A Past this weekend, you’ll LOVE what you find! Outdoor Flea Market Saturday and Sunday, the best of the year!

See you there!
m

Spectacular!

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Custom vinyl lettering on an antique mirror…

done for amazing artist!

Have a great weekend!

Originally posted 9/10, re-posted 8/24/11...

Quite Fabulous…

2010-09-08T15:29:00.001-07:00

Custom framed art – by Mementos!

Stop by the Paris Flea Market this week (open Thursday – Sunday) to see these and much, much more. The “Fleas'” have outdone themselves again, it is a shoppers dream!

See you at the Flea!

Mandi

Shopping at Nancy’s Attic

2010-08-24T00:16:00.000-07:00

We visited Monterey for a few days and while I didn’t get much shopping in (!), I did find the most wonderful shop in Pacific Grove, Nancy’s Attic. I walked in and knew I was HOME. Loved it, here is why:

The cabinet above is FABULOUS. I dream of having a piece like this! And she something for every taste…French Country, Shabby, Vintage, Toys and gifts…oh I could go on and on!

Lovely at every turn!!! I enjoyed my visit, and chatting with Nancy. I’ll be back there again real soon!

Photo credits: first and fourth, Nancysattic.com, second and third are mine.

Mandi

Monterey

2010-08-23T00:02:00.001-07:00

Some of the hi-lights of our trip to Monterey…

A visit to Fisherman’s Warf

A walking tour (led by my amazing history-buff friend Thom!)

And look what we found wandering a Pacific Grove neighborhood! They were enjoying treats of banana (peel and all!) and apples that residents leave for them. The family of deer (mama is in the back) live in a grove that the world-famous ‘Monarch Butterflies’ return to every year…though the butterflies won’t be back until October.

The Hadster and The Herb visited the Monterey Bay Aquarium. Had LOVES going there and had lots of stories to tell about things he saw.

A memorable weekend, spent with family (that’s my mom in the photo with the flowers!).

Wishing you a wonderful week!

Mandi

Warming up the color palette…

2010-08-20T12:01:00.001-07:00

…at Room With a Past! The ‘Room’ is open this weekend and there is something for every taste! You’ll find a lot of yummy summer finds (seashells and starfish) and sun-washed colors (shabby whites and pale blues and greens). And shabby at it’s finest, I adore this space:

Warmer colors are creeping in for fall, and what is more fall than burlap?!

Mementos added burlap table runners and wreaths this month, they are ooohhh so French country and a cozy addition to any decorating style for any season.

The Room is open today and this weekend, Friday, Saturday and Sunday 10-4.

Happy shopping!

Mandi

Ahhh…summer…

2010-08-16T20:10:00.001-07:00

Or what is left of it! We took a quick ‘road trip’ to Anaheim to see family and have a last bit of fun before…well you know…summer ends. We got alot in!

The Orange County Fair - farm animals, LOVE ‘EM!

Rides – RODE ‘EM, even the really tall ones!

We celebrated my moms birthday at our favorite Mexican restaurant – Mi Casa!!!

And then…Knott’s Berry Farm (bet you thought I’d say Disneyland?!)! It’s not my Grandmother’s Knott’s Berry Farm, she used to love going there in the 60s and 70’. They put an amusement park in around the Ghost Town, but it still has a lot of the old Knott’s nostalgia I remember…

Yes, that is The Hadster on the right…ready to launch wayyyy up high – NOT my favorite place for him to be but he LOVED IT and went four times (in a ROW!). We rode the train after that!

No trip to Knott’s would be complete without tossing a few coins (make a wish first!) into the fountain in front of Mrs. Knotts bakery! It was one of my favorite things to do as a little girl.

And I remember sitting here for pictures when I was a little girl…

And of course…I had to go SHOPPING! No pictures, but a visit to Country Roads in Orange is a MUST on every visit. Stop by The Country Roads blog, you will be inspired!

On to the rest of summer…

Mandi

Paris Flea Market !!!

2010-08-07T22:31:00.001-07:00

Some of the sights at the ‘Flea’ this month:

Mementos gifts for customers this weekend! I was a featured vendor!!!

Stop by the FLEA to see what everyone is talking about! You have one more day to do it…and then the doors close again until September 9th.

See you there!

Mandi

“Show us your Roosters Party”!!!

2010-08-06T09:01:00.001-07:00

Roosters here, roosters there…roosters, roosters everywhere!

Today is the annual ‘Show us Your Roosters' party over at Bella Vista. Barb has invited us to share the roosters in our homes. Here are some that reside in my kitchen.

The trio above guard the kitchen from the top of the refrigerator!

And of course, with roosters you HAVE to have red TOILE!!!

I’m glad you stopped by, please join Barb and her guests at the Rooster Party today at Bella Vista .

Have a wonderful weekend, enjoy your visit to the Rooster Party!

Hugs!
Mandi

Note: Original post 8/6/10, re-posted 8/24/11 due to photo storage issues! Thanks for stopping by again!

Ohh La La…a GRAND Opening!

2010-08-04T19:29:00.001-07:00

The Paris Flea Market is celebrating its Grand Opening THIS WEEKEND!!!

The Fleas have been hard at work (ok, shopping and creating!) to bring our customers the best in vintage, French country, Paris apartment, cottage, rustic and shabby styles…something for every taste!

Hop on over to the FLEA BLOG for times and days of the 4 day opening (see the ‘calender’ page).

Mementos is debuting “Expressions”, a new line of Vinyl Appliques at this months opening of the Flea! A sneak peek…

Join us this weekend for an amazing shopping experience, you’ll be SO GLAD you did!

Summertime…

2010-07-30T21:10:00.001-07:00

The 3 or so months we spent as kids swimming, playing hide-and-seek, hanging out with friends, having sleep-overs, staying up late…those were the days. When the furthest we went was a car trip to grandpa and grandmas house or a week at Scout camp. By the 2nd month we were bored, by the 3rd month mom was ready for us to go back to school. These days we still play hide and seek, sleep over and stay up late (ok so the kids do, I’m done by 9pm) and do Scout camp. But road trips have taken on a whole new meaning…we go farther, and head somewhere really memorable.

Like…

Spectacular. Amazing. Beautiful. Peaceful. WOW.

I hope you are enjoying your summer, I know we are. And I’m pretty sure we’ll NEVER be ready for it to end!

Mandi

A Treasure Hunt!!!

2010-07-16T00:02:00.001-07:00

Room With a Past is open this weekend…stop in to see what kind of fun treasures YOU can find!

Like these…

Swim on over to the ROOM, you’ll be glad you did! LOTS of treasures this month – INCLUDING a treasure hunt with prizes!!!

See you there!
Mandi

A Festive Fourth!!!

2010-07-04T22:09:00.001-07:00

We spent the 4th in Historic Columbia in California’s Gold Country. The towns festivities included a parade, pie eating contests, gold panning and lots of other fun activities. The highlight of the day was the parade! My favorite entry was this miner and his four-legged companion:

Now isn’t THAT the CUTEST ‘lil donkey you have EVER seen?! How sweet she looks with all her flags, scarf and bows!

And these gals just made me want to put on my bloomers and get out there and DANCE with them!!!

They were having so much FUN!!!

I hope your holiday was as happy as ours, and that you took a few moments of the day to reflect on how lucky we are to live in a country known for celebrating it’s own birthday in such grand style!

Happy 4th to all!

Mandi

Happy 4th of July!!!

2010-07-03T22:34:00.000-07:00

We’ll be celebrating the 4th in Columbia (CA!), have a wonderful holiday!

Mandi

Room With A Past was Fabulous!!!

2010-06-28T09:18:00.001-07:00

The “Room” was bursting at the seams this past weekend with some of the most amazing finds we’ve ever found! The shop was packed to the rafters with everything you can think of:

Vintage decor

Paris apartment

clothing and jewelry

shabby and cottage

elegant

primitive

…and lots of great Red, White and Blue for last minute holiday decorating.

The Roomies worked their pretty little vintage aprons off in June to make it a shoppers paradise. And SHOP they did! Check out the outdoor FLEA MARKET!!!

There was something for everyone!!!

It was so much fun to watch our customers as they carried their new-found treasures to their cars, happy that they got something special for a really great price.

That’s the Roomie way. We find it, spiff it up, bring it in, put a great price on it, and then watch it go right back out again. We love it, and we love our customers too! From the busy weekend we had, it appears they feel the same way!

The next RWAP opening is July 15th – 18th. For more info on Room With a Past, stop by the WEBSITE.

Have a great 4th!

Mandi

Let the summer begin!!!

2010-06-24T18:06:00.001-07:00

Mementos LOVES holidays and we’re celebrating the FOURTH with a Red, White and Blue BANG at this months Room With A Past opening!!! See???!!!

The ROOM is open Thursday through Sunday, stop by their website for hours and maps.

The HIGHLIGHT of this months opening is the OUTDOOR SALE and it will be one you will not want to miss! A shoppers paradise!!! I’ll be there all day Saturday, please stop in to say hello and do some shopping!

Here’s to a FUN Summer!!!

Mandi

Mementos Makes Memories…

2010-06-08T11:31:00.001-07:00

Let the summer parties begin! Personalization is key these days for taking the average party or event and making it super-special. How about icy cold water bottles with your picture or logo on them? Add some mini-chocolates and ‘kisses’, a few luggage tags, and you’ve got quite the party theme going!

For that office bbq you could try an array of sweet treats, all customized with your logo or theme. Shown below, chocolate bars, mints, mini chocolates and other yummy treats!

How about a GRAND celebration for someone special? A retirement deserves something SPECTACULAR!!!

Everyone loves a great party, Mementos can help put it over the top!!!

Mandi

Let’s Flea…

2010-06-04T20:53:00.001-07:00

To the Paris Flea Market of course!

Open the first weekend of June for a limited engagement (aka the monthly 4-day opening). Stop by their website, or better yet, become a fellow FLEA by hopping over to their BLOG

Some of the fabulous Parisian finds you’ll see in my space

And of course (even at the Paris Flea Market!) a bit of holiday too:

The Fleas have worked their apron-wearing magic again this month…PFM is shopping extroidinairre – you will LOVE what you find!

Happy Flea-ing!
Mandi

Memorial Day…

2010-05-29T06:57:00.001-07:00

A time to reflect and honor those that have served this great Country. We can thank them for our freedom…

We live in the Land of the Free, Because of the Brave.

Have a wonderful and restful weekend,

Mandi

Head on over the the ROOM!

2010-05-20T21:01:00.001-07:00

Room With a Past is OPEN for the weekend and let me tell you…it is Fab-U-Las!!! The Roomies have outdone themselves yet again (it just gets better every month!). Home decor, vintage accessories and the most amazing vintage clothes. Something for every taste.

My space is overflowing with yummy things. Mays finds include fun cupcakes and cheerful colors:

And a scrumptious rose banner kit (see the sample hanging?!) and Paris inspired furniture and cards.

Opening night was fun as always, the ‘regulars’ didn’t waste any time buying up all kinds of great finds. Your turn now, head on over to the Room, you’ll be so glad you did!

Mandi

Happy Mother’s Day

2010-05-09T12:03:00.001-07:00

I’d rather be in Paris!

2010-05-06T15:47:00.001-07:00

Paris Flea Market opens TODAY!!! Stop by their website HERE to learn more about ‘The Flea’, and get info on open dates, times, address etc.

(The shadow art on the wall are new items from my collection of ‘Unique Expressions’. That fabulous cabinet is my space in the shop.)

Bonjour!

Mandi

Celebrations…

2010-05-05T10:58:00.001-07:00

Custom candy bar wrappers for a special 65th anniversary. Congratulations to Verne and Joyce on 65 years of happiness!

Celebrate your event ‘Mementos Style’ with personalized favors, stationery and gifts.

Mandi

Ooh-la-la!!!

2010-05-03T20:36:00.001-07:00

Paris Flea Market opens this Thursday! A sneak peek at my space…

And then there are the 20 or so other gals that have ohhhsooolovely things too! A true shoppers paradise.

See you at the FLEA!!!

Mandi

Chicks Rule!!!

2010-04-27T04:55:00.001-07:00

Farm Chicks that is! The BEST show in the whole-wide-world is coming up fast…and they have a give-away for the event!

Click here:

to learn more!

Mandi

Everyone loves PARIS!!!

2010-04-26T00:46:00.001-07:00

Next time you are in Southern California, you really MUST stop at Paris to the Moon in Costa Mesa. Eye Candy…pure, fun, colorful…eye candy! See??? - - -

I found some fabulous goodies to bring in to the shops…more on that soon!

Have a wonderful week!
Mandi

Life…

2010-04-13T15:58:00.001-07:00

…at Room With a Past. We’re open this weekend, stop by and do your spring shopping! Amazing decor for garden, shabby, cottage, Paris apartment and many other decorating styles. And the most amazing vintage clothes, handbags and jewelry…among other fabulous finds!

See you at the Room!

Mandi

LUAU!

2010-04-06T21:18:00.001-07:00

One of the fun things I did this week for spring break…

A batch of favors (all chocolates, of course!) for a 50th Birthday LUAU!

From the tropics to the SNOW…we are taking time off to head up to Tahoe for some family time.

Have a fun week!

Mandi

Easter Blessings!

2010-04-02T09:23:00.001-07:00

Cats and Hats and Things, oh my!

2010-03-26T16:14:00.001-07:00

It’s a GIRL! Congratulations to my friend Gina, who is celebrating a baby shower for her best friend Melissa this weekend! I have the honor of designing shower invitations and making up the cutest batch of baby favors I’ve done in a long time….in one of my fav themes from the 60’s. See - - -

enough cats, fish, hats, ‘things’ and primary FUN for a party of 40!

Congratulations Melissa and daddy Chief, on your baby girl!!! Hugs all around, thanks for letting me be a part of your celebration!

Have a wonderful weekend!

Mandi

Happy St. Patrick’s Day!

2010-03-17T19:53:00.001-07:00

Let’s Celebrate Spring!!!

2010-03-17T00:19:00.001-07:00

Room With a Past is open this weekend…make plans to stop in for some shopping, you’ll be glad you did. Spring has definately sprung!!!

See you at the ROOM!

Mandi

Everything is Coming Up Roses!!!

2010-03-06T09:39:00.001-08:00

We all love roses, and if you are like me, we LOVE beautiful artwork. Well guess what, my friends??!!! Christie Repasy (sigh!) has started a new blog called “Chateau de Fleurs”! I, for one, can’t wait to visit her daily to see what is new and inspiring in her world. Please click on the picture below (from her blog!) and say hello…welcome her to our world…and enjoy her beautiful work and life.

I’ve come to know her work from many different place over the years. She has been published in many magazines and we all see her artwork (yardlongs!) in the shops we visit. Welcome to the world of blogging Christie!

After your visit to Christie, stop by the Country Roads blog for a visit. Pure eye candy at every turn, and the first place I stop when I’m in Orange (SoCa!). Thanks to Sue, the owner, for posting about Christie on her blog ‘My Country Roads’.

Please stop by both blogs to say hello!

Have a wonderful weekend!

Mandi

A Fabulous Announcement!!!

2010-03-05T20:07:00.001-08:00

Who are these ladies:

And why are they so happy?!

Meet my fellow ‘Roomies’, the amazing women from Room With a Past in Walnut Creek. We are always this happy, especially on Thursday night openings! RWAP is open the third (usually!) weekend of each month, starting Thursday evening (see the RWAP website for dates and times of openings). It is the most AMAZING shopping in the bay area, if you have not tried it…you MUST! You’ll be hooked the moment you step in the door.

As if this bunch of giddy gals wasn’t happy enough, RWAP owner Susan announced recently that the RWAP family is growing and she is opening another fabulous shop!!!

Learn more about Paris Flea Market on the Roomie Blog.

If you think RWAP is spectacular, wait ‘til you see Paris Flea Market in Livermore, you won’t believe your eyes! Brace yourselves people…you are in for a shopping treat.

PFM will open in May…I’ll keep you posted here!

Have a wonderful weekend!

Mandi

(Photo credit: The Roomie Blog)

A shoppers heaven..

2010-02-19T00:43:00.001-08:00

Room With A Past is open this weekend! We are celebrating February with ‘Love is in the air’ as our monthly theme, and you will LOVE everything there.

Mementos has a vintage palette these days…a refreshing change from the reds and greens of the holidays.

Vintage sheet music and sewing collectibles…

Keep Calm and Carry on…and a touch of blacks and florals…

And St. Patricks Day, of course!

It will be a great weekend for shopping, come see us…you will be so glad you did!

Mandi

Happy Valentine’s Day!

2010-02-14T20:57:00.001-08:00

I hope you have a song in your heart, and love on your mind!

Happy Hearts Day!
M

What do you think she’d say???

2010-02-08T19:29:00.001-08:00

This is my great-great-grandmother, on her farm in Woodriver Ilinois, circa probably the early 40’s.

She lived alone in a wonderful old farmhouse on the outskirts of town. My mom remembers riding her bike ‘way out to great-grandmothers place’ as a girl. g.g.grandma made her own apple butter, was an amazing cook, and could wring a chickens neck and have it in the frying pan before you could wash up for dinner. One time they couldn’t find her…called her name and could hear her calling back…they finally spotted her on the ROOF hanging shingles!

If she were alive today, I suppose she wouldn’t have much use for modern conveniences, probably preferring, a well-stocked kitchen, and her own tools to all of our electronics and things. And I’m sure she never dreamed that someday her great-great-granddaughter would share this picture of her that the whole world could see with the touch of a button.

Can you imagine what my great-great-granddaughter will be doing?! How primitive what I do today will be to her?! I can only hope that I leave something of my own behind…a photo or other memento…that she would want to share with others.

Mandi

Places to go…people to see..things to do…

2010-02-02T14:18:00.001-08:00

Wow, where did January GO?! The last two weeks of it flew by. I went to CHA and words can’t describe how much fun it was! Not many pics though…I was having such a grand time I forgot to take them! One of the highlights was the Fiskateers Garden Party, we got to make all kinds of fun garden-themed crafts designed by the most adorable group of gals in ORANGE! By the end of the party I was SURE I wanted to be a Fiskateer too, and am proud to say I am Fiskateer #6905!

The girls worked hard to make us each a 'seed packet’ with a craft in it (check out those adorable seed packets, they put their pictures on them…right up my alley!) We sat down to this:

All I could think was (well two thoughts actually) ‘this will be FUN’, and ‘for ME???!!!’. We got to keep everything you see, and made some cute floral crafts with them. Pics to follow if I can find another Fiskateer that has posted them!

We had so much Fiska-Fun, check out the girls – the 5 trainers are in the front row – I’m having scissor-envy over the large pairs they have, and those babies actually work! I’m in the back row, center. I must have just taken off my orange headband!

Other January events included my ‘big job’ of the year, badges and certificates for LEAD, the local Scout Council annual training event, a Room With A Past opening and ok so I have to admit…with everything going on, it looked like Christmas Day around here until the last week of January.

Here’s to a fun February!

Fiska-Hugs!
Mandi

Isn’t she lovely…

2010-01-20T19:35:00.001-08:00

And she can be found in my space…

At Room With A Past this weekend!!

More ‘news’ in my space…CUPCAKE HOLDERS!!! In fun Valentines Day Prints!!! Lots and lots of Valentines Day Vintage postcard tags too. And take a peek at the LOVE Banner Kit hung in the photo above – it is lovely in person, photos do not do it justice. The other banner kits by Mementos (“Vintage”, “Halloween”, “Believe” and The “Advent Calendar”) were so popular that we just had to design one for Valentines Day too!

And some fabulous vintage images and sheet music on clipboards, and vintage rose plates that are just yummy.

The ‘Room’ has made an incredible transformation out of the winter holidays and into the new year! Beautiful pastels in everything from candles to chairs, to furniture, home decor and accessories, and even in vintage clothing!

Stop by this weekend, a visit to the Room will be a welcome breath of fresh air after a rain-filled week!

See you at the Room!

Mandi (fresh pictures will be added soon…H’s new camera and I are still getting acquainted!)

On the road again…

2010-01-04T21:50:00.001-08:00

I’m taking a road trip later this month, I’m going to CHA. Yep, that CHA – Craft & Hobby Associations SuperShow – in Anaheim. Considered one of the top craft shows in the US…I can’t wait to see all the new products, catch a few classes and get the low-down on the latest trends in the crafting world. Hmmm…wonder what fabulous thing I’ll have to bring home??!!

No trip to O.C. is complete without a stops at a few of my favorite shops…I adore Country Roads in Orange…

And Shinodas Design Center…mmmhmmm…I could do some shopping there, I could! A gal can never have too many crafty supplies, can she?!

Instead of resolutions I’ve made goals this year, among them is a ‘project a day’ to keep up with the shops, volunteer projects and work. I’m 4 for 4 (4 in 4 days) so far, not bad! We’ll see how I’m doing by the 22nd when I hit the road…

Have a great week!
Mandi

Memories…

2009-12-31T10:57:00.001-08:00

Can it really BE?! Is it over already??? 2009 was memorable for sooo many wonderful reasons. We played hard, worked hard, and celebrated many special occasions.

Some of my favorite memories include…

Fabulous finds in my space at Room With a Past

Mementos at outdoor shows and holiday boutiques…

Shopping at fabulous places like “Paris To The Moon” in Costa Mesa CA…

and Poppyseeds in Stanwood WA…

Mementos designed some really great favors…

And family memories were made special by trips up and down the coast…

Friday Harbor with ‘the Herbs’…

Dolphins with Meg & Brett

Disneyland with my mom, Meg and Sabrina (for my 50th!)

Cherry picking with my mom and the Hadster

My dad on the Monorail

And carving pumpkins with the Hadster

And I can’t forget Scouts…

An overnight stay on the SF Bay…

And School…I was named Parent of the Year!!! I’m sooo honored…gardening is in my soul, thanks to students and parents who share my passion!

As we look back at 2009 we hope you had a happy and prosperous year, and enjoy looking back at your own memories…

And as we stroll into 2010…

We hope that the new year brings you everything you are hoping for.

I can’t think of a nicer way to end the year than looking back at what made it memorable for us. Let’s join Cindy at My Romantic Home for a look back at her beautiful home in 2009, and visit others who have joined in on her ‘Year in Review’ party. And welcome to those who have visited Mementos from the party!

Have a Happy New Year!

Mandi

Merry Christmas!

2009-12-25T16:07:00.001-08:00

Some of the sights around our home today…

My vintage favorites, and Annalees…

Yes, that is the shower curtain peeking out from the reflection in the mirror over the vanity…

Some of the Coca Cola collection…

She’s a little bit vintage, he’s a little bit Coca-Cola…and it all goes quite lovely together! The rest of the house is still covered in wrapping paper and boxes…we’re still having fun playing with our new toys.

I hope you and your family had a wonderful Christmas Day. Always remember the ‘reason for the season’, and above all

BELIEVE

Mandi

May you have the Merriest Holiday ever!

2009-12-18T00:58:00.001-08:00

I design our Christmas Card every year. I LOVE saying “Merry Christmas” to our family and friends, and we do it a different way every year....but always with a photo of the Hadster, and often with his buddy Santa Bob. This is from last year of h with Santa Bob at the Pack 62 holiday party :

Another favorite photo is MIA...it was of a special day for the Hadster, he had just gotten his braces off…and then we went up to Mount Diablo and played in the snow! He was sooo excited to build a snowman and throw snowballs (at me of course!). The grin stayed on his face until he fell into bed that night. I remember the feeling well, nothing feels quite as great as getting those braces off! (hopefully this photo shows up someday, had a 'photo hosting issue' that lost a good bit of this blog of mine!).

The big guy will be here in a week, I do hope you are on his nice list, I know I am!!!

Mandi

Take Tyme…

2009-12-14T16:27:00.001-08:00

To visit Tyme For Tea in the Historic town of Niles (CA), you’ll be so glad you did.

The shop is beautiful all dressed up for the holidays, and the Tea Room looks so inviting. My favorite spot inside has to be the sweetest too…

Charlottes Fudge!!! Need I say more? It is amazing…and the displays are mouth-watering. The cabinets are filled with truffles, chocolate ‘bark’, candy cane sticks, taffy and other sweets…something for every sweet tooth! On my last visit I couldn’t resist doing some shopping for holiday treats for family and friends. (click on each photo to see it up close!)

And then there is the Fudge – look at it all!!! Rows of yummy flavors (Chocolate, Raspberry Chocolate, Rocky Road, Mocha) all made from scratch by Charlotte.

Charlotte’s displays include holiday decor and antiques.

The garland above the sweet shop is filled with cupcakes and glittered goodies galore!

Look what is nestled in the candy shop area ~ cards, tags and journals by Mementos.

They look lovely on the antique display cabinet!

Stop by the Tyme for Tea website for more information on holiday teas and parties…it is a jewel to be discovered.

Have a wonderful week!
Mandi

Here comes Santa Claus….

2009-12-10T08:51:00.001-08:00

Me at 13 months…my grandpa was heartbroken that I didn’t love him as Santa!

And my son at the same age (in ‘01). “Santa Bob” was trying to get him to pose. The Hadster finally got Santa to see things his way…

And yes, we used it as our Christmas card that year…

Welcome to “Crafting with a Vintage Look” (aka Vintageimagecraft.com Newsletter) readers!!! Thanks to Scott & Martin for including Mementos in your newsletter~! If you have not picked up their 'e-book’ “Cards With a Past”, you really need to – it has some wonderful ideas on how to use your vintage images to create beautiful holiday cards. My favorite is the ‘CD Card”. Click here to see the CD card and others!

Happy holidays!

Mandi

Holiday Boutique fun!

2009-12-06T09:39:00.001-08:00

One last boutique before the elves pack up the show for the winter! Our school held the annual fundraiser that featured crafters and vendors selling lots of fun stuff for the kiddies and their families. Some of my holiday fare included ‘Merry Kissmas’ stocking stuffers…

Vintage postcard images journals and tags…

And colorful holiday journals that the girls loved!

We had a great time and bought one-of-a-kind gifts for family and friends (shhh, don’t tell!)…and we won a raffle prize that the Hadster will be crazy-happy about when he finds it under the tree!

Room With a Past is open this weekend and it is one you will NOT want to miss! The shop is loaded with holiday treats for everyone on your gift-giving-list. See you there!

Happy Ho-Ho-Holidays!

Mandi

‘Tis the season…

2009-11-30T21:41:00.001-08:00

One of my favorite places for the holidays is Disneyland. You don’t have to look far to see why.

The decorations and windows on Main Street ~

This window inspired a whole new look at our house this season! LOVE the colors!

The window in the General Store has been a favorite of mine since I was a little girl! Must be the vintage sewing machine, spinning wheel and notions…

A spectacular Castle! ~

Thunder Mountain Ranch ~ ( I could live here!) ~

The Ranch’s Festive BBQ area ~

Resident Reindeer having dinner ~

Isn’t this old ‘surrey' FUN???!!!

And oh so much more…

We were there for Herb and Hadleys birthdays (Hadley was born on his daddy-o’s birthday!) and stayed here:

The Grand Californian Hotel!!!

The boys had breakfast with Minnie and her friends for their birthday!

We had a wonderful trip.

Now – ON TO THE HOLIDAYS!!!

Mandi

Happy Thanksgiving!

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Warm wishes for a Happy Holiday Season. May your blessings be many, your troubles few, and your spirits happy!

From our home to yours…

Mandi & ‘The H’s’

Like going home…

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We all have our favorite ‘haunts’, one of mine is “Antiques and Things”, in Pacheco (CA)…a two-light-town tucked in the middle of the bustling suburbs. I was a dealer there for several years and still love going in, it always feels like home to me. I’m there for a holiday boutique this weekend, it looks something like this:

‘Twas a busy week…got some new journals done:

And a new ‘banner kit’ called ‘BELIEVE’…it comes with everything you see, including the fiber to hang it from. An easy project that has been quite popular at the holiday boutiques!

It feels great to be back at my ‘old’ shop to see my old friends, make new ones, there’s nothing like ‘going home’ even when it isn’t exactly where I live!

Have a nice weekend!
Mandi

Lots of sparkle!

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This time of year you’ll find me up to my elbows in paper and glitter…among other festive items (like chocolate and candy canes!). It’s been a busy season, and it’s just getting started. A boutique here, a shop opening there…I just love it. I’m having a hard time staying focused on ‘work’, I’m feeling the urge to decorate already!

Some of this weeks designs include these sweet canning jar gift tags…

Lots of vintage postcard image tags…

Vintage Christmas Hankies on a vintage image greeting card…

and more tags…aren’t these girls adorable?!

How about these 60’s greeting card image tags, quite festive!

A little bit of everything, something for everyone, and all quite enjoyable to look at!

Join me at ‘Antiques and Things’ this weekend for their holiday boutique!

Tis the Season!!!

Mandi

The holidays…are here!!!

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Yesterday was the first annual Cottage Jams Holiday Boutique at the Diablo Country Club and it was first class all the way! The organizers were the nicest gals and they made sure we all had a fun and successful day. Thanks to them, I can’t wait to see everyone next year. My table had the most amazing view of the valley (out the window behind me!), and I’m happy to say everyone loved my designs. (As always, you can click on the photos to get the BIG picture!)

On to the ROOM!!! Room With A Past is open this weekend (is it me, or are the months just flying by?!) and the winter holiday spirit is in full swing:

Come see us this weekend and see what is new, old, and in between!

And I don’t want to leave out the men in my family, Happy Veteran’s day to my dad, uncle Bob, Nephew Randy (he is still serving but needs to be honored anyhow!) and both of my grandfathers…all served in the military. And in that sentence we hit all FOUR branches! Dad is Navy, Bob is Air Force, Randy is in the Marines and my grandfathers were both Army. Thanks to them, and men and women like them all over the world, we are free…I’m forever grateful to them all.

Mandi

Puttin’ on the Glitz!

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Christmas card images from the 60’s get a new life with a flicker of colorful glitter! They’ll be part of gift card assortment celebrating retro style!

And how sweet are these beautiful vintage images of children in the snow?! The soft pastel colors are just amazing…a bit of german glitter glass added for sparkle.

They’ll all be available at the ‘Cottage Jam Boutique’ at the Diablo Country Club on Tuesday, November 10th. Email me for details!

Have a wonderful weekend!

Mandi