Gone Fishin'... or, My Favorite Catch of the Day

Sometimes, visiting antique shops can feel like a day of fishing... I head to my special "fishing" spots that I like to think no else knows about, arrive prepared with the proper "implements," and although I may not "catch" a blessed thing, I've thoroughly enjoyed a relaxing day. Then again, sometimes I come away with full "creel."

A couple weekends ago, my Mister and I headed out to Melben's Murkantile and Endless Collections, both located in the little town of Nicholson, PA. Both of these shops are well worth visiting, if you're in or near northeastern Pennsylvania. Of course, we breakfasted at MaZar's BridgeView Restaurant before tramping down to those special spots. Incidentally, the bridge, of which there is a view from the restaurant, is the Tunkhannock Viaduct - once called the "9th Wonder of the World."

Postcard image from ExplorePAHistory, courtesy of Dan Cupper

While my "creel" was filled twice over with several other tasty "fishies" that day, including a cute cotton late 1950s Jeanne Crain dress, my favorite catch of the day was this fun Depose mother-of-pearl fish pin...

 

What is your favorite unexpectedly delicious "catch of the day?"

A Purse By Any Other Name...

When I was a youngster, the women in my family usually referred to their "pocketbook" rather than "purse" or "handbag." Nowadays, I almost always call that carrying-container brimful of what I deem necessities for a day out and about... a purse.

Image courtesy of NYPL Digital Gallery

I am often fascinated by words and how their usage changes over time. Today, the word purse has decidedly feminine connotations, but there was a time when a purse was simply a small bag or pouch, usually leather, in which to carry money. A man could have a purse and no one would bat an eye... and a woman could carry a purse and not end up with bursitis in her shoulder.  ;)

I am also fascinated by purses and how their styles change over time. If only I could choose one era of handbags to love... there are just too many wonderful styles - from the beautiful mesh bags of the late 1800s to the quirky "telephone cord" purses of the 1930s to the tailored Kelly bags of the 1950s. Really, can a girl ever have too many handbags?

Here, in celebration of that accessory of necessity by whatever name you prefer, are just a few delightful examples available from four of my favorite Etsy shops...

From Stella Ranae Vintage, this adorable Puppy and Kitty Purse

 Art Deco Dame offers this fabulous Beaded & Sequin Clutch

From Vintage Pickle, this Shiny Gold Woven Box Purse

And FuzzyLizzie offers this lovely Victorian Miser's Purse

So, what is your favorite era of purse, pocketbook, or handbag?