In the Meantime

I’m on vacation this week. And while I await the arrival of more new residents, I’ve been keeping busy with other projects. Click on images to make them larger.

Last summer, I started collecting inexpensive items for Lena’s patio. When I went into Pier 1 to get the Papasan chair for Emerald’s apartment, I decided to grab the Swingasan as well. I knew it would look great on the patio with Lena’s containers and bistro set. I was disappointed to find that there isn’t enough vertical space for Lena to use the swing. Still, I couldn’t resist taking a picture of sweet little Zahara giving it a try before I return it. I should mention that the chairs (cell phone holders really) were not prominently displayed. In fact, they were on the bottom shelf of one of those stand-alone displays that had other decorative doodads on top. If you happen to pop in to your local Pier 1, be on the lookout for a bin of small decorative mirrors near the cash register. Each mirror is decorated with either colored jewels or pearls and they’re priced at $1 each. I will be picking up a couple when I return the swing. (What do you mean *if* I return the swing?) Oh, sorry… Zahara and Faith are now sitting in the swing together and trying to convince me to let them keep it so they have some seating of their own on Mommy’s patio.

I also started working on the setting for a photo story that’s written but not yet photographed, so I spray painted and assembled Tastries bakery (formerly the Malibu bakery). I’m going with a pink and brown color scheme, hence the espresso colored seat cushions etc. When these sets go on clearance, I’m buying another one, so I can have two sets of the cute table and chairs. I’ve got more stuff for the bakery on the way as I’m considering making this a permanent dio. I'm not crazy about the walls, but I'm unsure what to do about it at the moment. While at Dollar Tree looking for flooring and wall covering for the bakery, I spotted this drawer liner that I thought might look good in Chandra’s boutique. I know it’s a bit much in combination with the wardrobe background, but I like it. If you're wondering what's up with the empty picture frame, I'm turning it into a mirror sooner or later...okay, most likely later.

Since my shopping excursions led me within a few miles of the Kmart store that is closing, I stopped in for a look-see. Here’s a photo of some Barbie Look dolls (long ago sold out at most Walmart and Target stores) sitting on a shelf. There were three or more of each doll pictured and a couple of the newer Dolls of the World, and if you look closely at the price tag, you’ll see why. I wasn’t even mildly tempted by the prices. On sale, everything was the same price or more expensive than what I’d pay elsewhere. They will have to mark the merchandise down at least 60% before my interest will be piqued.

On days like today (days on which I have nowhere I have to be and the toddler is in the capable hands of another), I like to visit the local thrift stores and antique shops. Actually, I’ve all but given up on thrifting because I’m just no good at it. I lack the patience to dig through the crap in search of that unexpected treasure. However, antique shops and flea markets are usually fun for me. I’ve purchased 3 dolls and a pair of miniature brass urns from the antique mall near Mara’s ballet school. Today, I visited a shop I hadn’t been in before and what should I find on a shelf NIB and reasonably priced but a Fashionistas Artsy. Robyn is so relieved that she won’t have to wait until next month for an articulated body.

Oh, and just for fun I want to add these pics I took a while ago. The first one is Matthew and Amber's twin daughters, Macee and Makenna. Yes, I'm one of *those* people who insist on dressing twins alike. Heck, I dress my daughters alike whenever I can and they aren't even twins. The second one is Grace rockin' the heck out of the dress and heels from the new fashion pack. As you can see, Darren took one look and had to pull her in close for another kiss before they parted ways.

I’ve also been reorganizing the doll room. Eventually I will take pictures so you all can see our play space. It will most likely be after Christmas since Santa will be bringing Mara the KidKraft Majestic Mansion, and it will likely necessitate another rearrange.

Happy Thanksgiving to those in the U.S.!