Smith St, Fitzroy

On Saturday I caught the train to Melbourne (after watching my son Liam play his first ever game of footy in under 9s) for the birthday of a beautiful friend. I had a few luxurious hours to myself, and spent my time browsing second hand shops. There was much to temp me, but I didn't spend a cent. I merely enjoyed time to myself, and not having to say 'looking not touching' every five minutes.

Here is a little of what I saw.

My parents had the same one as this. We loved watching our own home movies whilst sitting on our bean bags. We knew them so well we'd start laughing before the funny bits came up.

I've developed a vintage suitcase love lately.

I so would have bought this dress, which must have been hiding in someones cupboard for 50 years, had it been my size.

I loved these orange shoes too.

And this whole rack was just amazing. Look at all that colour!

I got the late train home, and tumbled into bed at 1 am with a smile on my face and feet that had walked many happy miles.

So from this I came home empty handed, but the boys and I happened to be walking past an op shop this morning while we were out doing errands and we found these.

Tea cup and saucer (50c)

8 side plates (50c each)

And super cute coffee mug (50c)

Look how well these match the ones I got from my Nanny. I just had to get them. Happiness, for today at least, is pink crockery. Smiles all round. 50's style.

A little bit of love for Inglewood

On Saturday we had a gorgeous day with a sunny 25 degrees. We decided to hop in the car for a little country drive and visit a new place. Looking at the map we chose Inglewood, and what a great choice it was.

This is a town of only about 1000 people, that once flourished during the gold rush, but seems once again to have found a world in which to shine. The people were among the most friendly and welcoming I have ever met, and although many of the shops were crammed with tiny collectables and antiques, our family of six were welcomed into each one without any of the hesitation that shopkeepers can have at the sight of small children. I fell a little bit in love with the place, and can't wait to return.

It has several antique and collectible shops, an op shop, some gorgeous old buildings, and a lot of history.

Here's a little of what we found.

Juliet bought these shoes for $1 and I got this home made table cloth for $2 which I will make something with.

And I also got this 60's dress which needs a little bit of love. I've already started working on it.

I really wanted to buy a boot load of vintage suitcases. But alas, we can't have everything. :-)