Goodbye Napa…

I just got back from a posh resort in Napa Valley, acclaimed wine country. We were comped two nights after our last visit here had some “issues” so we were excited to revisit. But sadly this trip was much the same. The worst being that our room faced across a courtyard and their building on the other side was being painted/renovated. So during the day there was constant machinery noise in our room and a rather noxious smell. After a few other things had gone wrong my husband looked at me and said “I don’t even want to be here anymore.” And I felt the same.

It was supposed to be relaxing, fun, romantic trip, but it failed on some counts. Honestly I’m really glad we weren’t paying for this.

Still.

Still I did have the chance to visit my favorite Napa thrift store CP Thrift Store. This is a gem of a store with the nicest staff. While they have some higher-end items, they also have stuff they aren’t hesitant to price at $1 or $2. (I wish my Goodwills did that!) I ended up with a mini haul, but my favs were the necklaces which were 50% off that day. They had tons to choose from with two friendly volunteers to pull them from their cases. (I really should have spent more time there.)

I think mid-century crystal chokers are so glamorous though they take a while to sell.

I spotted this vintage heishi necklace in a box of tangled shell necklaces. Possibly Native American, possibly not. Still I can say it is a thing of beauty in the Santo-Domingo style!

I’ve sold these wire-wrapped semi-precious stone necklaces before. They are definitely long tail, but worth picking up.

This vintage choker with big faux pearls and filgree/rhinestone beads with so unusual I couldn’t pass it up. There is a somewhat similar one by Miriam Haskell, but I don’t think this is a Haskell…sadly!!

Total for four necklaces: $10.75

As I was waiting to check out I starting perusing a box of stereoview photo cards ($3 each). This one was so odd, so quirky I couldn’t resist. It’s titled “The Brownies Playing Lawn Tennis” circa early 1900s.

Here’s a closeup of the toy Brownie figures with their big eyes and stick legs.

I also went to Antiques on Second in Napa which I heartily endorse too. There are so many outstanding vendors, items and helpful staff. If I was buying for myself I’d be in trouble.

In the end I bought a few things to resell…knowingly paying too much. This visit was more about enjoying the store and the hunt and less about making money. Though now, back at home, I’m rather regretting that decision!!

I loved this vintage Neiman Marcus, made-in-Italy, candleholder with an Old World look. Was hoping it might be sterling silver, but it’s just plate. Still it’s heavy and handsome.

This heavy all-brass crucifix (with a larger-than-normal, especially hairy Jesus) intrigued me. It had “something.” It was different than any others I’ve ever seen. In fact the sales clerk commented on that too as she collects these.

Well my husband and I did enjoy some good food and wine on this trip, but by Friday morning we were more than ready to leave the resort. Especially since at 7:36 a.m. the work crew started up their machines opposite our room. I mean…honestly!!!

And it was good to get home. The sun was shining and our house was blissfully quiet! Sometimes home is the best place to be.

Happy hunting,

Karen