ORMOLULU

HAYSTACK ANTIQUES in Bellevue . . . Ormolulu's newest home!!!

2012-02-27T10:05:00.001-08:00

We're truly THRILLED to announce that Haystack Antiques in

Bellevue is our brand new home!!!!! This premier mall

really is a "needle in a haystack" when it comes

to finding the best*of*the*best in

vintage & antiques!!!

Many of you know that I really enjoy writing . . . and I wish

there was time to say so much that is on my mind

about this exciting new venue

for us. Please be

patient!!

Life has thrown us a few curve balls lately, and time is at

a premium with handling the stuff that is not

so much fun . . . but we'll be back

at it very soon!

Another positive note: we're in the process of packing for the

fabulous Palmer-Wirfs Portland Expo Show

this week . . . gotta get off the computer

and go gitter-done!!!!

We'd like to thank the fabulous Debbie Nordstrom at

Haystack Antiques for believing in us and

welcoming us so warmly to her

magnificent group of

vendors!!!!

We'd also to thank many of our industry friends who have

shown their support by paving the way for us to be

included in this great, new venture!

And I'll be highlighting

them soon!

Life is good, and we are grateful for soooo much!!!

xoxo, Debi

2nd Saturdayz Urban Market . . . How Sweet It Is!!!!!

2012-02-09T13:49:00.000-08:00

It's always good to have something *sweet* to look forward to,

don't you think?! Well, this coming 2nd Saturdayz Urban Market

at Warren G. Magnuson Park (Workshop/Hangar 30) in Seattle

promises to be filled with sweetness and love!!!!

Saint Valentine will be there in many splendiferous forms!!!

With the nasty winter behind us, signs of welcome spring are

popping up everywhere . . . along with the weeds

in our gardens. I think we're all confused;

but, hey, I'm NOT complainin'!!

So grab your bag and head to Sand Point this Saturday morning . . .

early buying starts at 8:00 a.m. You KNOW the "early

bird gets the worm"!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Bring your umbrella and greet the season

we've all been waiting for!!!!!!!

At last . . . . . . . . .

2012-01-20T11:40:00.000-08:00

At last . . . the snow is melting, the snow is melting!!!!

. . . and none too soon for the giant Tacoma Home & Garden Show,

opening this Wednesday--YAY!!!!

And, even better, we packed two weeks ago

. . . . . . . . . I'm soooo glad for that!!!

So get rid of that cabin fever, and

come see the first-ever VINTAGE MARKET

at the Tacoma Home & Garden Show.

Twenty your *favorite* Northwest vintage

purveyors will be there with home

and garden goodies to melt

your heart!!!!!!

* * *

Many thanks to JOHNbob for putting this together!!!!

* * *

DON'T MISS THIS EXCITING, NEW SHOW!!!!

This blog post is in tribute to the AMAZING

Miss Etta James!!!!!

Contentment . . . home respite before the show season begins!

2012-01-16T14:29:00.000-08:00

With the snow softly falling and a *bug* to hold me down,

I'm appreciating contentment at home.

The impending *show season* arrives on January 25th,

as we hit it big with the TACOMA HOME

& GARDEN SHOW (see sidebar

for all the details).

Thankfully, we got the rigs all packed before the bad

weather struck . . . so I can actually relax for

a change. I'm happy to focus on the bounty

surrounding us at home. More and

more, I'm drawn by the organic and natural.

What is more beautiful and inspiring than Mother Nature's

hosts of textures, forms, layers, patinas,

colors, debris and decay?!

My love of all things vintage and old combine so seamlessly

with *gifts* from this astonishing earth!

The house-cleaning can wait, the messy closet will still be there;

and I'm at peace with this brief, restful moment.

Lack of energy has it's benefits--I'm busy

healing . . . and am content with

that all by itself!

annual ritual of renewal: 2012 . . . ready or not!!!!

2011-12-31T18:20:00.000-08:00

"Pensive" . . . pretty much sums it up for me at the end of

2011, which was a year of trials for many

friends, family & acquaintances.

I'm certainly not alone in this experience. There is plenty of

evidence from your blogs, Facebook, etc., that

this has been the norm rather than

the exception. Wish I had

a crystal ball . . . .

But, really, how do you prepare for the future?

Moment.by.precious moment.

Live NOW, fully!

I find this very hard to do--even with conscious

practice. My thoughts veer off into

next week, next month, etc.

Spiny critters these

thoughts are!

I wish to take nothing for granted. I'm grateful for each

and every one of you who has blessed my life

in 2011 . . . . My life has been fulfilled

by your kind comments, support

of my business and sharing!!

It's just not possible to sum up all the precious, happy moments

we've all shared in 2011 . . . but, be assured, I reflect

on them all with great joy and hope that we'll

be together again in 2012!!!!!!!

As 2012 knocks on my door . . . I'm answering with great hope and

optimism . . . and I hope you do too! HAPPY NEW YEAR

to all of our friends and family near and far!!! May

blessings keep you safe and happy, and

may strength and hope be your

friends in times of need.

We're all truly the

same. Let us

be kind!

Christmas update . . . Pacific Galleries

2011-12-13T17:08:00.000-08:00

What resonates in your heart for Christmas? For me, it's always

been anything ANGEL! When joining the "Blue Birds"

(pre-"Campfire Girl") as a child, I was elated when

the troop selected my idea of "Angels" as our

troop name . . . Blue Bird Angels!

I've also always had a thing for anything "candle" . . . and

frequently drew candles on my home-made

Christmas cards to family & friends.

These tiny village houses and little gnomes filled my

heart with wonder . . . I loved staring at

the tree for hours--still do!!!

The all-out elegance of the season is reflected (quite literally)

in the mirrored-mosaics on this hand-carved

deer . . . GIANT champagne bottle

needs no explanation,

right? Of course

it's empty!

The silver horn is a Boy Scouts Bugle. The antler, meat-carving

set on the left has sterling cuffs; the carved-bone set on the

right is made to look like elk-hooves!!!!!!!

The heavy, standing crucifix is so

unique . . . enamelware

over cast iron!

There are hanging metal baskets for your porch greenery,

as well as wicker baskets that work very

well for small, live trees--or

fill with pinecones for

the fireplace.

Le Poulet is only one of several gorgeous

taxidermy birds in my booth.

Perfect *winter* decor

for months to

come!!

Imagine snuggling by the fire in this gorgeous,

antique wing chair--I love the

exaggerated lines!!

A gift for that someone who has absolutely EVERYTHING?

How about this vintage "Ride RUDY" mercantile

amusement ride???? Please come visit my

booth--Madison Park 14--at Pacific

Galleries in Seattle. I'll keep

adding even MORE

holiday decor . . .

~ ~ ~ Christmas at 2nd Saturdayz in Seattle ~ ~ ~

2011-12-07T11:27:00.000-08:00

The final . . . and BEST . . . 2nd Saturdayz Urban Market of 2011

will be absolutely, gorgeously WONDROUS!!!

Ormolulu will have two booths, filled to

the brim with Christmas-y delights!

We'll have it all . . . vintage tinsel trees, chunky

glass containers for your ornaments,

mercury glass, dolls and doll

furniture . . . . . . . .

. . . . . . . . galvanized bins, crushed velvet and

crocheted spreads (PERFECT for tree

skirts!!!), cherubs, angels, santas,

ornaments, jewelry . . . . .

. . . . . . . old toys, reindeer, Mary & Joseph

and JESUS (stunning vintage religious

relics!), white wings . . . . . .

. . . . . . French taxidermy, chandeliers (always!),

stools, antique red wagon, bells . . . .

So, be an ANGEL . . . please come out and support

hard-working, passionate, independent

businesses such as this!

We live to please you . . . and we live BY pleasing you!!!!!

* * * *

Well--are you coming????

Please, say . . .

Happy Holidays!!!!!

Pre-Holiday at Pacific Galleries

2011-11-18T21:32:00.000-08:00

Yes, the holidays are fast approaching . . . but we're holding out

just a *bit* longer with autumnal influences

in our booth at Pacific Galleries

in Seattle, WA!!!

Taxidermy birds--including a Tibetan pheasant, two chickens,

a European chukar, and a stunning set of ring-neck

fighting pheasants--are fabulous for

fall-into-winter decorating!

We created the unique, industrial pendant light above--a modern

crystal chandelier inside creates a stunning juxtaposition

of rustic/industrial and elegance!!!

How many times have you seen a SIX FOOT TALL

French drying rack?! This would make an

incredible *Christmas tree* or shop

display piece, no??!!!!!

* * *

Christmas holiday goodies, including lots of

silver trays for your holiday

entertaining, will

arrive soon!

* * *

2nd Saturdayz - Preview

2011-11-11T22:34:00.000-08:00

2nd Saturdayz Urban Market . . . this Saturday, November 12th

2011-11-09T12:13:00.000-08:00

Please join us for a very special 2nd Saturdayz Urban Market.

While we've already mentioned this . . . it certainly bears

repeating . . . featured guests, Linda & Ludmil

Marcov from Willow Nest Farm,

will be among us!!!!!

I'm bringing the wheelbarrow . . . you're gonna

want to fill er' up! The holidays are

fast approaching, and

we're ready!!!

Willow Nest Farm coming to 2nd Saturdayz!!!!!!!

2011-11-02T09:24:00.000-07:00

We are all-a-flutter (or would that be a *glitter*!!): Willow Nest

is coming to 2nd Saturdayz Market on November 12th in

Seattle, Washington, at Magnusen Park.

* * *

Linda and Ludmil Marcov have been a major source

of inspiration to us and many others in

the vintage industry. They're

coming all the way from

Burton, Texas!!!

* * *

DO NOT MISS THIS 2nd SATURDAYZ MARKET.

It's gonna be beyond, beyond, beyond!!!!

Ormolulu at Island Retreat Antiques & Vintage Market in Anacortes

2011-10-31T21:31:00.000-07:00

Here are a few photos from the Island Retreat Market in Anacortes

this past Saturday . . . it's been a busy month, so we

hope you enjoy the photographs we took!

Best wishes for a HAPPY HALLOWEEN

. . . last photo from the top of

our fridge to you!!!!

2nd Saturdayz Urban Market is our next stop . . .

join us in Seattle, Washington,

on November 12th!

* * *

We're gonna glitz it up for the HOLIDAYS!!!!!

Ormolulu at Ruffles & Rust Market in Monroe . . . .

2011-10-23T20:41:00.000-07:00

Remnants of the Past Show - San Luis Obispo

2011-10-12T16:11:00.000-07:00

If I could save time in a bottle, the first thing that I'd like to do . . .

is capture Judy Watkins' Remnants of the Past Antique Show,

which was held last weekend in lovely San Luis Obispo!!!

We poured our heart and soul into the booth for this special show,

and clearly we weren't the only ones to do so! I'm still

reeling from all the beauty and inspiration that

surrounded us. Sadly, we had no time after

our complex setup to take photos of

those other booths . . . .

I expected time would be short, but we barely finished setup

before Security had to pitch us out for the night! If you

look at Ormolulu on Facebook, you can see

the structural challenges we were

dealing with . . . but it did

come together.

We were pretty satisfied with the results and hope you enjoy!!

It still seems somehow surreal that we were even

there . . . very much like a lovely dream.

For me, the absolute highlight of the show was getting to meet

Brooke & Steve Giannetti during their signing of

PATINA STYLE . . . a stunning new book

created by the combined talent of

Brooke's design skills & Steve's

architectural prowess. I've

admired them for years,

following their blog

* Velvet & Linen *

We couldn't have pulled this off without the fantastic assistance

of Jim's son--Daniel . . . and Sela--Daniel's beautiful and

hard-working girlfriend. They were with us

every step of the way . . . pushing to

get it all done. This was the

most physically demand-

ing show we've

ever done!

* * *

THANK YOU, THANK YOU, THANK YOU,

dear Daniel and Sela--you ROCKED!!!

We also extend our gratitude to Trinidad of Atelier de Campagne.

He has made us feel welcome and calmed our nerves with

a combination of humor and charm! They really

*broke the mold* with Trino Castro . . . !

We thoroughly enjoy our friendship

with Trino and Team Atelier.

Can't wait to see you

guys again!!!

To Judy Watkins, the heart behind this magnificent show, we

simply can't thank you enough for inviting us into

your world. The word "inspiration" can

seem so overused these days,

but we feel totally

infused with

renewed enthusiasm and confidence because of

you. You've set a standard for show

promoters that in all our years

of doing shows (and it's a

LOT of years!), you

are the BEST!

Judy's staff were all equally amazing, trying to help every

step of the way. We especially appreciated the

extra efforts and constant smiles of both

Cheryl and Helen--thank you!!

* * * *

I can't possibly remember the names of all the FABULOUS vendors

we met at ROTP . . . my brain and body are beyond

exhausted. But I'd like to shout out on the

rooftops, that you're a decidedly

outstanding group of folks

in every way. We

loved being

with you!

It was reassuring to have Dawn & Jeff, Thea & Chris, Kathryn,

Carla & Debra, Nancy & George, Cindy & Barry,

Robyn (Lipstick Gypsy & family) from

the Pacific Northwest in the

house too. Even if we

couldn't chat much,

it was GREAT

to see you!

And Celeste . . . this hugs's for YOU!!!

What a great surprise to see

your beautiful face!

* * *

Okay, now we have to go unpack and

return the big rental truck.

. . . then we collapse!!!

House is a wreck . . . but my booth is tidy!

2011-09-27T22:01:00.000-07:00

One downside of this business I so love, is that

so much time is spent on ensuring my

booths ( whether shop or show )

are "company worthy" at

all times--and, therefore,

my home is NOT!!!

With three important shows in October, I'm spread

pretty thin. Today we had to collect a few

items from Pacific Galleries for these

events. Please see my sidebar on

the left side for information,

dates, locations, etc.

It's so hard to decide what to take and what to leave,

ensuring my booth doesn't look pillaged.

I'm rather liking the curated look,

but wish I had taken a few

other things to fill in.

Oh well, no time for second-guessing now.

Will just hope for the best and

move forward with show

preparations.

And since all of the inventory and boxes for these

big shows is *staged* throughout our

home, you can only guess (as I'd

never-ever show pics of that!)

just how really bad it looks.

I make "The Hoarders"

look good!!!!!!

Do we have the guts to be in Remnants of the Past Show?

2011-09-26T11:18:00.000-07:00

When Judy Watkins first approached us to invite our participation

in her highly respected show, Remnants of the Past, we were

thrilled!! Then the reality of the whole endeavor

hit us after we came down from our

beautiful *Cloud 9* . . . .

Questions such as "Can we afford it?", "Do we have enough really

good stuff?", "Can we get the kids to help?", "How do

we price?", etc., kept me awake at night!

Fortunately, our friends Dawn & Jeff from Great Findz

and Deb & Bob from Retreat generously

shared their recommendations and

experiences from already having done this show.

Please bear in mind that we are

all competitors . . . and it says a lot about

their character and kindness

in helping us work our

way through the evaluation!

* * *

We can't thank them enough!!!!!

In addition, we owe a great debt of gratitude to our

newly-made friends at Atelier de Campaign,

for their encouragement and ongoing

advice . . . and a lot of laughs

in between to keep us

so cheerful and

optimistic!!!

* * *

Thank you Trino, Johan and Martin--we

simply can't wait to meet you in

person. Everything still seems

daunting . . . but we're

getting our *guts*

up for ROTP!!

. . . Remnants of the Past Show is in Ormolulu's future . . .

2011-09-24T22:22:00.000-07:00

Sometimes . . . even if you're not ready for it, an opportunity

of splendid proportions comes your way.

This is that moment--for us!

Remnants of the Past Show, San Luis Obispo, California.

* * *

Named the Number One Flea Market by Romantic Homes

Magazine as well as top billing from Country

Living . . . this show offers some of the

finest vendors in the vintage

industry anywhere in

the U.S.A.!!!!

* * *

It doesn't seem real at this point . . . although the

preparation, designing, planning and

physical work are *clearly* real!

Please stay tuned for a few

sneek peeks in the

coming days.

* * *

Somebody pinch me . . . !!!!!!

Main Street Flea Market - Monroe, Washington

2011-09-14T11:38:00.000-07:00

Here are a few *teaser* photos for the

Main Street Flea Market this

Saturday, from 9:00 a.m.

to 6:00 p.m.

This is a *rain or shine* flea market, people.

Who knows what Mother Nature has in

mind? Bring your umbrella, just

in case! I've got fall and a bit

of Halloween on my

mind . . . and in

my booth!

Lots of wire, metal and galvanized goodies!

GREAT enamelware . . .

. . . this FABULOUS, primitive, hanging cupboard . . .

. . . this WONDERFUL, rolling garden table--perfect for an

autumn display of pumpkins, etc., . . .

. . . and, weather-permitting, this GLORIOUS antique tea cart!!

* * *

We're on the SOUTH side of Main Street.

Y'all come see us, ya hear?!

Remember, THIS Saturday only in Monroe!!!

"Sugar Birds" Diorama . . . and "The Mormon Bird Play"

2011-09-12T11:26:00.000-07:00

I recently removed my beloved "Sugar Birds" Diorama from Pacific Galleries.

This old diorama was once part of the Lynden Pioneer

Museum in Lynden, Washington.

But I received a call from Pacific Galleries, asking me if I still had it.

Evidently a gentleman named Roger Benington wanted to

acquire it for a play he wrote (with collaboration)

called "The Mormon Bird Play."

Here are some of Roger's comments to me via email:

I am a theatre director, playwright and designer. I wrote a play recently with six of my friends in New York called THE MORMON BIRD PLAY and as I often work in Seattle I decided to stick around here after my last production opened in April to see if I could get my play produced. Luck was on my side and I will be co-producing the show with my colleagues at Washington Ensemble Theatre with a cast of local actors. While looking for a taxidermy bird to use in our publicity photo-shoot I came across your diorama of sugar birds. I was so tempted to buy it then but at that stage I had not raised money for the production and had no clue what my budget would be.

When I first looked at the diorama it was obscured by other objects in your stall, and I had one of the folks at Pacific Galleries move them so I could get a clearer view of the entire diorama. It was only then that the title and description was visible. I could not believe my eyes when I read that it came from a pioneer museum: You should know that the pivotal scene in my play happens when the characters turn into birds that manifest themselves as Mormon Pioneer women. It was very hard for me to turn my back on the diorama that day.

WELL, you can imagine my glee when I read those words . . . and OF COURSE

I returned the diorama to Pac Gal so it could be included in

Roger Benington's production of:

Here is some additional information about the play. GOOD LUCK, Roger on this unique

production to be held October 27 through November 21 in Seattle!!!

* * * *

Washington Ensemble Theatre curates the world premiere of director Roger Benington’s The Mormon Bird Play.

The Mormon Bird Play grew out of a seven month-long collaboration between writer-director Roger Benington and six New York actors. The script had it’s first public reading at New York Theatre Workshop, but Washington Ensemble Theatre will curate the play’s first fully-staged production, featuring an all-male cast of Seattle actors.

Six actors play little girls, who become birds, who manifest themselves as Mormon temple workers and pioneer women. This is the allegoric dream-world of The Mormon Bird Play, a darkly-twisted new comedy in which ten year-old Ivona--ugly and mute--comes to live with her Mormon cousins in Utah. When she finds an injured bird on the grounds of the LDS Temple, Ivona immediately becomes an object of suspicion, dangerously reflecting the ills of the culture that surrounds her. Can that society suffer a mirror of its own imperfection, or must that mirror be shattered?

The play is directed and designed by Roger Benington recent Gregory Award nominee (Outstanding Director, Outstanding Scenic Design, Outstanding Production) for his work on “O Lovely Glowworm" with New Century Theatre Company. The production features Devin Bannon, Jeremy Behrens, Barry Cogswell, Ash Hyman, Noah Luce, and Parker Matthews. THE MORMON BIRD PLAY begins its run at Washington Ensemble’s Little Theatre on 608 E 19th Ave on Thursday October 27 and continues till November 21. Tickets are $10-$25 and are available at the door or in advance through Brown Paper Tickets. Visit www.brownpapertickets.com or call 800-838-3006. More information at www.mormonbirdplay.com

If you haven't been to the Sand Point Antique Market lately, go NOW!!

2011-08-27T21:48:00.000-07:00

Sunday, August 28 . . . 8:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m.

Warren G. Magnuson Park - Seattle

Hangar 30 - Workshop!!!

There's an AMAZING variety of vendors and

vintage goodies--truly something for

everyone!!!! We are in the north

window AND the

center aisle!!

* * * THIS IS FABULOUS!!!! * * *

SandPoint Antique & Design Market - THIS Sunday!!!

2011-08-25T10:35:00.000-07:00

Ladies & Gentlemen . . . it's time for the SandPoint Antique &

Design Market at Warren Magnuson Park,

in the Workshop at Hangar 30

in Seattle, Washington.

This SUNDAY, I'll have a "petite cabinet of curiosites"

for you to explore. It's been awhile since

I've done this show; and I'm looking

forward to seeing my

antique-loving

friends!

Just look at these GORGEOUS swallows that are hand

painted on milk-glass with burgundy, velvet-lined

frames . . . how I want to keep!!!

This adorable, vintage wicker budoir chair is in

AMAZING condition--even has a bit

of storage under the seat!

* * *

Sunday will be a beautiful day to

treat yourself to a bit of

shopping!!!!!!

Road Trip with Shell . . . .

2011-08-23T22:30:00.000-07:00

Okay ~ now that I've got your attention (NOT my Citroen, darn it),

I'm sharing a simple, sweet and serendipitous day spent with my

good friend, Shell. She was trying to help me blow off

some *blues* I've been feeling lately. Great

company, good food & retail therapy . . .

what could possibly be better!?

First stop, Shell's favorite European-style bakery in

Everett . . . L'Artisan

(okay I lost their card, and I'm hoping that's correct)!

Life is short . . . look at dessert first!!!

I was THRILLED with my quiche, followed by peach tarte!!!

Speaking of *peach*, here is Todd of Bountiful Home in Edmonds.

Business has been BOOMING at BH, and Todd was hard at

work when we popped in to visit. He was receiving

new shipments of merchandise for the

coming holiday season --retailers

have to be waaay ahead

of the game, and

Todd is

on it!

While driving up to the curb, we saw Todd's sign for "Mums,

Pansies & Kale" . . . Shell and I turned to each other

and said "Oh My" at the same time!!!

(Great minds think alike.)

Todd decided it was

a good sign

addition!

This is but a brief teaser of what's in-store at Bountiful Home.

There's gonna be major changes soon--be sure

to drop by and take a look in the next

few weeks . . . will be lovely!!!!

The rest of the day, we spent on much-needed "retail therapy".

We were far too busy to stop and take pictures--certainly

you understand. Rest assured, the *session* was

totally beneficial in every way!!

Here's a photo of one of the kindest, funniest and most interesting

friends in the world . . . . . Shell of Bungalow Bling.

She is one of those very special people you can

always feel comfortable around, even

when you haven't seen her for a

long time. She's as unique

as she is talented,

I'm so lucky to

call her my FRIEND!!!

We can be as different as night and

day . . . and it doesn't matter

one bit! We always find wonderful

and highly entertaining common ground.

THANK YOU, dear Shell,

for caring and sharing

in a beautiful day spent

together!!!!!

~ xoxo Debi ~

2nd Saturdayz is FIRST Rate!!!!!!

2011-08-12T21:11:00.000-07:00

. . . A FEW SNEAK PEEKS OF MY FABULOUS

STASH FOR 2ND SATURDAYS

TOMORROW IN SEATTLE!

THIS MARKET WILL NOT DISAPPOINT YOU!!!!!

SOME OF THE ABSOLUTE COOLEST VINTAGE

TREASURES ANYWHERE ARE HERE!!!!

THERE IS NOTHING "REGULAR" ABOUT THIS

REGULARLY SCHEDULED SHOW!!!!

IF YOU ARE REMOTELY CLOSE TO SEATTLE, BE SURE

TO GET YOUR FANNY IN HERE TOMORROW!!!

"The LIBERTY" . . . . . . . .

2011-08-03T15:15:00.000-07:00

"The LIBERTY" folk art, hand-made steamship

is much bigger than I thought, *liberating*

me to have a 20% off sale at my

Pacific Galleries booth

in Seattle!!!

There is some of the BEST merchandise I've had in

years . . . please come visit

* Madison Park 14 *

This AMAZING industrial, enamelware cabinet is currently

having a cameo performing role at an Eddie Bauer

photo shoot in Seattle . . . such a lovely

*model*, don't you think?!

I'm very happy to answer any questions you may have

about the photos you see on my blog.

Please send your email to:

debi@ormolulu.com

Also . . . there's only 3 days left to take advantage of

my moving sale at Ruffles & Rust Square

in Snohomish . . . better hurry!!

. . . and now, the extra "LU" in ORMOLULU . . .

2011-07-27T19:41:00.000-07:00

Although my first post regarding the definition of "ormolu" wasn't

particularly well-received, I still hope to balance it with

the remaining explanation of my blog

name . . . "ORMOLULU".

. . . and this is the additional "LU" to my "ORMOLU" . . .

Maybe it's because I was forced to grow up at such a rapid

pace as a child . . . work beginning at age 11,

picking strawberries (I know, nothing

new to many of you!). But I was

out the door and on my own

at age 18 . . . on the

DOT!!!

My parents felt a responsibility to make sure we were

all as independent as possible--as early as

possible--in our lives. I always felt

that my childhood was cut

short. Maybe that's

why I still

have

toys!

I felt a deep yearning for the stability that antiques represented

to me quite early in life . . . beginning with the old

things in my grandmothers' homes. But

I certainly did NOT want my

home to look like

theirs' did!

Each new generation wants to create "their own" look,

and today is certainly NO exception!

Connecting to a fresher look has been so important in the more

whimsical and creative aspects of today's antiques

and vintage business. But Ormolulu's roots

will always be in the "old",

where high quality

means depth &

enduring.

Much of what I see in "design" today seems trite

and "throw away" . . . and for someone

with my "shakey" start in life,

it has no grounding

feeling for

me.

And, as time goes by, I become more and more excited by

the possibilities in utilizing the old, the rejected,

the unusable in a new form as

beauty . . . art!!!

The chippy, the rusty, the crusty, the simple but strong,

the utilitarian, the organic and natural

objects that have no peer on

the planet . . . sigh!!!

* * *

"Skip to my "LU" my darling . . . !"

~ xoxo ~

What the heck is . . . "ormolu" ?

2011-07-26T21:47:00.000-07:00

Determining either a "blog" name--or business name--is quite the

undertaking today. People are so creative, and the pressure

to be certain that it "makes sense" is really intense if

you want to stand out from the crowd . . . .

After a GREAT deal of trial-and-error . . . with lengthy lists of

many "possibilities", I landed on "ORMOLULU"

. . . being a combination of "ormolu" (a

gorgeous, elegant component of

French furnishings), and "lu"

for a whimsical, and

humorous fin!

I wanted to express myself in complex AND humorous

ways . . . not to take myself soooo seriously (as

I've been prone to doing life-long)!

I'm truly a major "Francophile", loving most things French,

especially my mate . . . whose last name means

"white water" in French. Isn't that

just beautiful???!!!!

However, I digress . . . what the heck is

ormolu . . . and why is my blog

named "Ormolulu"???

Here is the Wikipedia definition of ormolu:

Ormolu (pronounced /ˈɔːməluː/; from French or moulu, signifying ground or pounded gold) is an 18th-century English term for applying finely ground, high-karat gold in a mercury amalgam to an object of bronze. The mercury is driven off in a kiln. The French refer to this technique as bronze doré; in English, it is known as "gilt bronze".

The manufacture of true ormolu employs a process known as mercury-gilding or fire-gilding, in which a solution of nitrate of mercury is applied to a piece of copper, brass, or bronze, followed by the application of an amalgam of gold and mercury. The item was then exposed to extreme heat until the mercury burned off and the gold remained, adhered to the metal object.

Due to exposure to the harmful mercury fumes, most gilders did not survive beyond 40 years of age, .

Hang him; a gilder that hath his brains perished with quicksilver is not more cold in the liver
—The White Devil, John Webster

No true ormolu was produced in France after around 1830 because legislation had outlawed the use of mercury. Therefore, other techniques were used instead but nothing surpasses the original mercury-firing ormolu method for sheer beauty and richness of colour.^[1] Electroplating is the most common modern technique. Ormolu techniques are essentially the same as those used on silver, to produce silver-gilt (also known as vermeil).

A later substitute of a mixture of metals resembling ormolu was developed in France and called pomponne, though, confusingly, the mix of copper and zinc, sometimes with an addition of tin, is technically a type of brass. From the 19th century the term has been popularized to refer to gilt metal or imitation gold.^[2]

My simple explanation: Life is splendidly "gilded" by our

efforts to create beauty around us . . . in whatever

form pleases us . . . and there are soooo

many forms to discover and

appreciate, don't you

think??!!

* * *

I am "ORMOLULU" . . . a complex, difficult-to-

understand, sometimes elegant, sometimes

hard-to-appreciate, humble, intense,

flamboyant, simple, flighty,

energetic creature who

loves to express

herself!!

THANK YOU for putting up with me . . .

and joining me on this crazy

journey of life. I

LOVE YOU

ALL!!

My Blue Heaven . . . . !

2011-07-23T22:33:00.000-07:00

The BLUEST possible sky--the BLUEST possible water! Hard to

come by in the Pacific Northwest. But that's exactly what

my sister, Peggy, and I luxuriated in today while

visiting Port Angeles and it's famous Sand

Castle Contest. This was truly

a heavenly day . . . in

every way!!!

These professional, sand-carving artists come from all over

the United States to compete for best sculpture.

We're talking about 27,000 pounds of

sand for each work of art!!!

Serious stuff and

amazing!!

Approximately 22 hours go into each work

of *temporary* art. These beautiful

structures will be history in

a bit over a week!

A very special type of sand is imported

. . . one which will hold up to the

artists' demands for detail &

structural adherence.

The *theme* was the world of

sports--you may have

figured that

out!

There was something for everyone: swimming, *blues*,

food, a market . . . and a GIANT 8-foot

*rock* octopus sculpture!

Downtown Port Angeles has several gorgeous

wall-sized, hand-painted murals. The

details were just incredible!!

It was a long drive from Bellingham, crossing the

ferry to the Olympic Penninsula. But

it was well worth it!

Time spent with my wonderful, generous sister

was --as always-- way too short!!

Thanks for the *delayed*

birthday; so worth

waiting for!

I think there needs to be another "sister play-date"

some time again very soon!!!! Edmonds,

Peggy? I want to take you to Todd's

Bountiful Home and Nursery.

As an avid gardener, you

will LOVE it!!!

xoxoxo my sweet Peggy!!!!

. . . a bit MORE of * Vintage Bliss * in Conway!!

2011-07-21T20:40:00.000-07:00

Slowly, but surely, we're adding merchandise to

our new booth at *Vintage Bliss* in

Conway. And we have an

offer for you . . . !

Please visit this charming mall, mention Ormolulu

blog or Facebook page . . . and receive a

15% discount off your entire

purchase in our

booth!!

Your patience is really appreciated during this

move-in phase . . . I like things to

be picture-perfect, and they

are not! But there

are goodies

galore!

So please come explore this charming, comfortable,

laid-back shop across from the Conway

Pub . . . great hamburgers/oysters

and brewskies for youskies!

And be sure to visit * Curious Goods Antiques *

just around the corner . . . a day spent in

the country to soothe away

the daily stresses of

life . . . ah!!!

REMEMBER . . . 15% off your entire purchase

in my booth if you mention Ormolulu

the blog or Facebook Page!!!

Offer is good till the

end of July!

* * *

Thanks so much for your continued support of

my small business enterprise. I'm

looking forward to seeing

you all soon!!!

a bit of * Vintage Bliss * bliss . . . .

2011-07-20T13:13:00.000-07:00

Just getting started at *Vintage Bliss* in Conway.

Denise calls her shop "A vintage emporium

of fabulous things", and I'm happy to

be part of that fabulousness!

Never having done a space in the center of a shop before, this

is a new challenge. Will take a bit of time before it

becomes the way I like. But here's a little

peek at what's developing . . . .

Getting the *structure* in place will take a bit of experimentation.

But it's a lot of fun, and I just love being closer

to home. Conway is just 30 minutes

south of Bellingham.

I have some vintage, French-style furniture at really

great prices . . . so come take a look!!

Antique, decoupaged screens from the Victorian era are just

incredible . . . how I hate to part with them!!

Over the next few weeks, I'll be updating you with more of

my new finds . . . some GREAT stuff

is coming soon!!!

Our next stop is 2nd Saturdayz Urban Market in Seattle

at Warren G. Magnuson Park (in the

Workshop, as always).

* AUGUST 13 *

We've missed our friends and customers there and look forward

to a happy reunion!! With a few big shows behind

us, it's time to ENJOY the more intimate

surroundings of our favorite

local shows!!!

* * *

P.S. Please be sure to stop by Ruffles & Rust

Square in Snohomish for my big sale!!

ORMOLULU

HAYSTACK ANTIQUES in Bellevue . . . Ormolulu's newest home!!!

2nd Saturdayz Urban Market . . . How Sweet It Is!!!!!

At last . . . . . . . . .

Contentment . . . home respite before the *show season* begins!

annual ritual of renewal: 2012 . . . ready or not!!!!

Christmas update . . . Pacific Galleries

~ ~ ~ Christmas at 2nd Saturdayz in Seattle ~ ~ ~

Pre-Holiday at Pacific Galleries

2nd Saturdayz - Preview

2nd Saturdayz Urban Market . . . this Saturday, November 12th

Willow Nest Farm coming to 2nd Saturdayz!!!!!!!

Ormolulu at Island Retreat Antiques & Vintage Market in Anacortes

Ormolulu at Ruffles & Rust Market in Monroe . . . .

Remnants of the Past Show - San Luis Obispo

House is a wreck . . . but my booth is tidy!

Do we have the *guts* to be in Remnants of the Past Show?

. . . Remnants of the Past Show is in Ormolulu's future . . .

Main Street Flea Market - Monroe, Washington

"Sugar Birds" Diorama . . . and "The Mormon Bird Play"

If you haven't been to the Sand Point Antique Market lately, go NOW!!

SandPoint Antique & Design Market - THIS Sunday!!!

Road Trip with Shell . . . .

2nd Saturdayz is FIRST Rate!!!!!!

"The LIBERTY" . . . . . . . .

. . . and now, the extra "LU" in ORMOLULU . . .

What the heck is . . . "ormolu" ?

My Blue Heaven . . . . !

. . . a bit MORE of * Vintage Bliss * in Conway!!

a bit of * Vintage Bliss * bliss . . . .

Contentment . . . home respite before the show season begins!

Do we have the guts to be in Remnants of the Past Show?