Today, Jim and I escaped the telephone, and the dust, noise, and utter mayhem of street re-construction in front of our usually quiet home. We got up early, had a quick bite to eat, and then headed North, our favorite direction to go. Jim had just read an article about some nice antique shops to visit. We were disappointed in stopping at the first one. The sign outside did say “Antiques” and a sign inside reiterated the idea, but the only “antiques” we saw were some pieces of chinaware. Evidently, there is a space above the breakfast bar that has a lot of antiques, according to the article, but at that moment, it was not open (for whatever reason). We went on our way.
The second spot, also advertised as a wonderful place had signs that said, “For Lease” on several windows, and no one was in sight. Continuing up the road, in Rumney, we found a small, but eclectic and well-appointed shop that had a variety of neat items. Jim was happy with his “find” of a baggie full of old recipe books. I’m sure he will be sharing that treasure trove with you, on his Vintage Cookery blog, eventually. I found a book about the History of Plymouth that I have read before, but do not own, or did not own until today! Happy to have it in my library. I also found an unusually-made Signature Quilt that is very unique.
All of the dealers we met today in Rumney, Orford and Lyme were very friendly! That is always a good way to be, whether or not you have something for sale. I saw a number of quilts for sale, as well as quilt tops. I am sure someone pays the prices that are asked for some of these items, but I find it difficult to meet most of the prices asked, considering the condition of the pieces. I don’t think that most dealers have caught on to the fact that the market for old quilts right now is “soft.” Of course, the quality of old quilts can vary as much as old cars: we have the jalopies, and we have the Cadillacs. Everything is relative, and I suppose desirability of any item depends on one’s intended use for it.
We ended our trip in Lebanon, NH after driving through some of the ritzy sections of Hanover, past bright white, old Federal style homes, perfectly-manicured lawns, and blooming bushes. Intermittent sightings of the Connecticut River were pleasant today, and of course, just over the river is Vermont! At one road intersection, there must have been about 150 white, orange, and yellow Tulips planted en masse. What a cheerful sight, but of course, there was no way to snap a photo!
The last of the big spenders (not) we stopped at Friendly’s and Jim had a soft serve ice cream, while I chose a one-scoop dish of Mint Chocolate Chip ice cream. We did not want to go inside and wait a long time to be served. Finishing that, we headed back down the highway, discussing how long the U.S. has had highways, and as usual, Jim knew the whole history. There does not seem to be a fact of history that has escaped him. Amazing!
The one memory that stands out from today is the lime-green color of new leaves on the Deciduous trees of the mountains, otherwise covered with Evergreens. I love seeing the mountains, and when I am in that “neck of the woods,” I remember Ellen Webster’s fondness of climbing the nearby Mt. Moosilaukee. What a wonderful day!
Patricia Cummings
Quilter’s Muse Publications
