Vintage Telephone Table Or Gossip Bench: A Great Idea

Gossip Benches: Popular In the 1940s and 1950s 

Grandma lived in a two family house in Brooklyn, N.Y. with a wonderful front porch, attractive awning and a door bell with chimes that I will always remember. As soon as you entered the foyer into her home you headed straight down the  hallway towards the dining area and kitchen and there was  what every grandma had in those days....."the telephone table" or "gossip bench" as many people called these charming seats with an attached table.

  Gossip Bench Or Telephone Table Came In Many Styles

While grandma's telephone table was Mahogany with an upholstered fabric seat, I have seen these tables in all kinds of styles (Danish, Victorian, Early American, Modern) and  different woods and materials. You will see Gossip benches  with a variety of seats including needlepoint, vinyl,  upholstered, patterned, striped etc. You will also come across  Mid-Century looks, such as a wrought iron hairpin mesh bench. These modern benches are cool but can fetch big money as compared to ordinary versions!

Where To Buy Telephone Tables Or Gossip Benches 

Buyers can still find plenty of telephone tables out there and easily available on Etsy.com or eBay.com or other online sites as well as in antique shops.  While I generally see common benches  selling for $60-75.00, you will also come across  special telephone tables selling for even higher prices. And in Metropolitan areas such as New York City where decorators are re-doing these benches in high end glitz the prices are really climbing. It seems everyone is now after The Gossip Bench or Telephone Bench or Telephone Table! And I have also seen newly made Gossip Benches in cottage style, see http://www.benchesbythebunches.com/Cottage-Gossip-Bench---Black.htm

It's easy To Find Your Phone With A Gossip Bench

These tables were very handy before cordless phones and of course way before cell phones. How nice it was to actually know exactly where your phone was. It was of course...ON THE TELEPHONE TABLE! Now that is a handy idea.

Read More About Gossip Benches Or Telephone Tables 



http://adesignenthusiast.blogspot.com/2010/04/gossip-benches.html

http://www.apartmenttherapy.com/going-gaga-for-141790

Turquoise bench courtesy of http://adesignenthusiast.blogspot.com/2010/04/gossip-benches.html

Top bench spotted at http://www.collinsvilleantiques.com/

Painted lack bench was found at http://haverfordhouse.blogspot.com/2010/04/ive-got-gossip-girl.html

C. Dianne Zweig is the author of Hot Kitchen & Home Collectibles of the 30s, 40s, 50s and Hot Cottage Collectibles for Vintage Style Homes. She is also the Editor of I Antique Online an actively growing internet based resource community for people who buy, sell or collect antiques, collectibles and art. You can find Dianne’s fabulous retro and vintage kitchen, home and cottage collectibles at The Collinsville Antiques Company of New Hartford, CT, a 22,000 feet antique emporium with an in-house retro café. To read more articles by C. Dianne Zweig click on this link: C. Dianne Zweig’s Blog Kitsch ‘n Stuff Email me at dianne@cdiannezweig.com Visit my website, CDianneZweig.com Dianne is a member of: The American Society of Journalists and Authors The Society of Professional Journalists

Dressing For Passover Circa 1960s

 What To Wear To A Passover Seder

With Spring shortly approaching I am reminded of  shopping for Spring clothes as a child and pre-teen.  In my home, Spring also meant getting ready for Passover which included  lots of new  holiday  recipes but also new clothes to wear to the Seders (dinners). Some of my fondest memories were gathering for a mega Seder with the entire extended family crammed into my Aunt Dotty's small apartment in Brooklyn, New York.

Old Fashioned Seder: Seated By Rank

Table arrangements were by rank. The elders sat at the head of a very long chain of tables which spanned the living room and dining room.  Older kids may have made it to the far end of the main table or were delegated to the bedroom where another mini Seder was set up for the young ones. You marked the years until you would be promoted to the main table, an accomplishment indeed . Aunt Dotty had her trusted housekeeper who returned each year to help her manage this huge gathering. Guests  were  fussed over and the meal was DELICIOUS!


Remember Patent Lather Shoes With Flowers?

Getting ready to go to Aunt Dotty was a big deal. Mom had us dressed in a new skirt or dress, matching   clean tights,  patent leather shoes, a cute handbag and perhaps a bow or headband to wear. I particularly liked the shoes in the 1960s. If only you could buy shoes like that today.

Those were the days. In honor of Passover just around the corner, I feel like going shopping. After all, I need to set a good example to my children who truly believe that  flip flops can be dressy or casual depending on whether they have sequins or not. 

C. Dianne Zweig is the author of Hot Kitchen & Home Collectibles of the 30s, 40s, 50s and Hot Cottage Collectibles for Vintage Style Homes. She is also the Editor of I Antique Online an actively growing internet based resource community for people who buy, sell or collect antiques, collectibles and art. You can find Dianne’s fabulous retro and vintage kitchen, home and cottage collectibles at The Collinsville Antiques Company of New Hartford, CT, a 22,000 feet antique emporium with an in-house retro café. To read more articles by C. Dianne Zweig click on this link: C. Dianne Zweig’s Blog Kitsch ‘n Stuff Email me at dianne@cdiannezweig.com Visit my website, CDianneZweig.com Dianne is a member of: The American Society of Journalists and Authors The Society of Professional Journalists

"Craigslist Connection": A Group Forum For Buyers And Sellers Of Antiques And Collectibles On Craigslist

Spotting Antiques And Collectibles On Craigslist

Often I get an idea for my site I Antique Online.com in what I call a flash of creativity. As far as I know there is no conscious thought about a particular idea when I am in the midst of a sudden burst of creative energy.

Case in point is my recent flip  decision to add yet another group forum to I Antique Online.com called "Craigslist Connection". What I was thinking was that it would be great to have the power of over 9000 members browsing the antique and collectibles section of  Craigslist to share great finds with other members of IAO.

So I started the group and with hours the buzz throughout the site was amazing. The group instructions were that a member could post something they spotted on  any of  the many  Craigslists copying and pasting the title, date and LINK.

"Craigslist Connection" Popular Group  Forum

So the group was up and running and members added their own twist to the group as well. Some of the members began showing us pictures of "bargains" they actually bought on  Craigslist. So that now the group is a place to share items that may be of interest to a social network of antique and  collectibles buyers and sellers as well as a place to drool over missed  opportunities.

 To learn more about the images shown, visit "Craigslist Connection Group" 

C. Dianne Zweig is the author of Hot Kitchen & Home Collectibles of the 30s, 40s, 50s and Hot Cottage Collectibles for Vintage Style Homes. She is also the Editor of I Antique Online an actively growing internet based resource community for people who buy, sell or collect antiques, collectibles and art. You can find Dianne’s fabulous retro and vintage kitchen, home and cottage collectibles at The Collinsville Antiques Company of New Hartford, CT, a 22,000 feet antique emporium with an in-house retro café. To read more articles by C. Dianne Zweig click on this link: C. Dianne Zweig’s Blog Kitsch ‘n Stuff Email me at dianne@cdiannezweig.com Visit my website, CDianneZweig.com Dianne is a member of: The American Society of Journalists and Authors The Society of Professional Journalists

Painting An Antique French Provincial Dressers In Two Charming Colors

Liven Up An Old Dresser  

 Pretty combination of blue and lilac paint. 

Look how attractive this older French Provincial style dresser looks when painted a combination of light blue and lilac. It's simply delicious. It certainly caught my eye when I was out browsing my local Antique mall.

Painting A Dresser In Two Colors

If you are a dealer having a harder time "moving" furniture or a buyer wanting to liven up  a room in your home, consider painting your piece(s) in two compatible colors. As you can see there is also extra finishing touches done to this dresser. Local paint stores can show you the materials to add accents as well.

C. Dianne Zweig is the author of Hot Kitchen & Home Collectibles of the 30s, 40s, 50s and Hot Cottage Collectibles for Vintage Style Homes. She is also the Editor of I Antique Online an actively growing internet based resource community for people who buy, sell or collect antiques, collectibles and art. You can find Dianne’s fabulous retro and vintage kitchen, home and cottage collectibles at The Collinsville Antiques Company of New Hartford, CT, a 22,000 feet antique emporium with an in-house retro café. To read more articles by C. Dianne Zweig click on this link: C. Dianne Zweig’s Blog Kitsch ‘n Stuff Email me at dianne@cdiannezweig.com Visit my website, CDianneZweig.com Dianne is a member of: The American Society of Journalists and Authors The Society of Professional Journalists

Displaying Antique And Vintage Costume Jewelry Bracelets On A Chunky Tree Branch

Clever Ways To Hang Antique And Costume Jewelry  Bracelets

Retro Hang-Ups

This is another terrific Retro Hang-Up idea for costume jewelry lovers. Spotted while shopping in Winsted, CT. a factory town with a cluster of interesting Antique shops, this clever tree branch jewelry display caught my eye. Look how great chunky  bracelets look hung on the chunky tree branch. This idea proves that you can really show off your jewelry without spending a lot of money. All it takes is some creativity.

The light colored branch is a lovely contrast to the darker colored bracelets also like how only a few bracelets are displayed.

C. Dianne Zweig is the author of Hot Kitchen & Home Collectibles of the 30s, 40s, 50s and Hot Cottage Collectibles for Vintage Style Homes. She is also the Editor of I Antique Online an actively growing internet based resource community for people who buy, sell or collect antiques, collectibles and art. You can find Dianne’s fabulous retro and vintage kitchen, home and cottage collectibles at The Collinsville Antiques Company of New Hartford, CT, a 22,000 feet antique emporium with an in-house retro café. To read more articles by C. Dianne Zweig click on this link: C. Dianne Zweig’s Blog Kitsch ‘n Stuff Email me at dianne@cdiannezweig.com Visit my website, CDianneZweig.com Dianne is a member of: The American Society of Journalists and Authors The Society of Professional Journalists

Junking Old Clothes: Don't Rush To Purge Your Clothes Closet

The Myth Of Organizing Your Clothes Closet

I just came across yet another magazine article  about how to organize your clothes closet.This gal suggested never folding your clothes because folded clothes get hidden and are not worn. I could  relate to that advice. But what about the all too common advice to give away old clothes that you haven't worn in a year? Do you buy into that one?


What If I Had Kept My Peter Max Scarves ?

I once thought that purging older clothes was a sane idea, but how old is old? And when is "old" "good old" versus "bad old". Think about this... what if I had kept all my Peter Max scarves or my groovy handbags from the 60s? These gems would be fabulous to have kept. So clearly, some "old" is cool and some "old" is OLD and gross  no matter when it was in vogue.

Skipping Seasons Before Unloading Old Clothes 

And what about the boredom factor? Don't you get  tired of wearing a particular vest or sweater over and over again ? Isn't it nice to take a break from a particular  garment, skipping a season or two before re-falling in love with the very same outfit or item you got tired of? Certainly it may not be wise to cart off clothes to Goodwill too soon. Let a few seasons go by and  re-evaluate your love affair with these clothes.

The Yo-Yo Effect And Clothes

Oh, and I need to mention weight and clothes. Weight goes up and weight goes down....and that is yet another reason to think twice about having a tag sale and unloading your clothes. I am finding myself coming up with all sorts of reasons why it is not wise to give away clothes too soon.


Out of Sight Out of Mind 

My solution is too pack my clothes in plastic boxes and hide them in an extra closet. Every decade or so, I find them again and think......yikes these clothes are so out of style, I should have given them away years ago.

Shoe image courtesy of http://www.etsy.com/listing/92361932/vintage-high-heels-in-red-white-and-blue

Peter Max image courtesy of http://www.northjersey.com/arts_entertainment/123980359_Pop_art_legend_still_in_style.html

Handbag image  courtesy of http://fashionmanisfesto.blogspot.com/2011/01/handbags-1960s-history-of-fashion.html


C. Dianne Zweig is the author of Hot Kitchen & Home Collectibles of the 30s, 40s, 50s and Hot Cottage Collectibles for Vintage Style Homes. She is also the Editor of I Antique Online an actively growing internet based resource community for people who buy, sell or collect antiques, collectibles and art. You can find Dianne’s fabulous retro and vintage kitchen, home and cottage collectibles at The Collinsville Antiques Company of New Hartford, CT, a 22,000 feet antique emporium with an in-house retro café. To read more articles by C. Dianne Zweig click on this link: C. Dianne Zweig’s Blog Kitsch ‘n Stuff Email me at dianne@cdiannezweig.com Visit my website, CDianneZweig.com Dianne is a member of: The American Society of Journalists and Authors The Society of Professional Journalists

Decorating With Colorful Vintage Ceramic Vases

Thrifty Decorating Ideas Using Vintage Vases

Vintage  ceramic vases from the  1930s, 1940s, 1950s are great to collect and use as decorative accessories in almost any room of your home. Some people like glazed pieces while others prefer matte finishes.

I have found that there are common colors that you will consistently find that these planters and vases came in: aqua, yellow, pink, soft green, jade, chartreuse, white, cream, sky blue. Less frequently you will discover  ceramic pottery in crimson , grey,  peach.


Shapes of Vintage Pottery

When I buy older ceramic vases or planters, I am looking for a  variety of interesting shapes. In my living room, I have a collection of matte cream/white vases arranged on a built in bookshelf. You will find vases and planters with shapes that are rounded,  scalloped, angular, tubular, curvy etc.  You may also decide to choose vases with detail or one's that are plain.




Size Matters When Displaying Vintage Pottery 


When using pottery in displays, you may want  to keep all the sizes of your vases and planters consistent or you may prefer to vary the sizes. Collections of several pieces grouped together often look better with varying sizes. However, you may also want to mingle "single" pieces with 
a book collection and have the vases stand out as solo pieces. 

Hunting For Vintage Vases By Style

The fun part of collecting older pottery is that you can set your collecting parameters. Then, when you go out hunting you have a goal in mind. While prices vary somewhat according to the manufacturer. for the most part, I think it is safe to say that you can find plenty of choices from $18.00-36.00. That is not to say that some very lovely ones might be priced a little higher.  When you handle a lot of older planters and vases, you  become  familiar with "ordinary" versus "less common". You also begin to appreciate which pieces seems to be made finer or with more decorative appeal.

C. Dianne Zweig is the author of Hot Kitchen & Home Collectibles of the 30s, 40s, 50s and Hot Cottage Collectibles for Vintage Style Homes. She is also the Editor of I Antique Online an actively growing internet based resource community for people who buy, sell or collect antiques, collectibles and art. You can find Dianne’s fabulous retro and vintage kitchen, home and cottage collectibles at The Collinsville Antiques Company of New Hartford, CT, a 22,000 feet antique emporium with an in-house retro café. To read more articles by C. Dianne Zweig click on this link: C. Dianne Zweig’s Blog Kitsch ‘n Stuff Email me at dianne@cdiannezweig.com Visit my website, CDianneZweig.com Dianne is a member of: The American Society of Journalists and Authors The Society of Professional Journalists

Think Small, Comfy, Safe When Downsizing Parents:

Helping Older Parents Move 

What do you need to keep in mind when you are helping your parent's downsize into a smaller place. The key words here are SMALL and  temporary.  

I know it is a hard concept to swallow, but when you move a loved one into a small apartment whether it is in an Assisted Living facility or a private apartment complex...think  small, comfy and safe. It's important to take along sentimental items, but NOT everything. It's a tough time for
everyone. Sometimes an older person is comforted  
if they know that family members will hold onto some of their keepsakes.


Comfy But Not Cluttered

Those are the three words I would  emphasize...small, comfy and safe.  When you buy or bring furniture do not over do it. Older people

 Always bring a few of mom's favorite things.

who are unsteady on their feet are fall risks. So keep the setting open and airy but cozy. Do not clutter with lots of small tables, plant stands, floor decor, area rugs  etc. that an older frail person could TRIP OVER.

Buying Smaller Scale Furniture


Vintage  furniture is often of smaller scale than what you will find today inmost furniture stores.  If you start shopping around for furniture you  will see that everything tends to be oversized. This style is great if you have a big home, but most  apartments for downsizing seniors are SMALL. This is where it makes sense to visit a Second hand store, Antique shop or Consignment shop to look for  furnishings. Many people do very well buying items on Craigslist.com Some towns have weekly newspapers with classifieds as well. Look for comfortable and safe furnishings i.e. rounded corners on tables, solid wood pieces that do not wobble, kitchen chairs with arms.

Read all my articles about "Vintage Mom and Dad"

C. Dianne Zweig is the author of Hot Kitchen & Home Collectibles of the 30s, 40s, 50s and Hot Cottage Collectibles for Vintage Style Homes. She is also the Editor of I Antique Online an actively growing internet based resource community for people who buy, sell or collect antiques, collectibles and art. You can find Dianne’s fabulous retro and vintage kitchen, home and cottage collectibles at The Collinsville Antiques Company of New Hartford, CT, a 22,000 feet antique emporium with an in-house retro café. To read more articles by C. Dianne Zweig click on this link: C. Dianne Zweig’s Blog Kitsch ‘n Stuff Email me at dianne@cdiannezweig.com Visit my website, CDianneZweig.com Dianne is a member of: The American Society of Journalists and Authors The Society of Professional Journalists

Charming French Blue Painted Shabby Chic Antique Bedroom Set Featured At "Finder's Keepers", Southington, CT

Pretty Painted Antique Furniture 

Thought I would share with you a fabulous looking Shabby Chic vintage bedroom set I spotted a few days ago  at "Finder's Keepers" in Southington, CT. This ensemble was professionally painted French Blue with Cream accents.

1930s Painted Antique Dresser 

The dresser appears to be 1930s, but the night stands while painted in the same French Blue color are probably later. I am guessing from the grill work on the night stands that they were 1950's pieces.
But the set is charming. There is as dresser, mirror, two night stands. two twin bed headboards  and a wonderful chair.


Finders Keepers: Quality Consignment Furniture

Father and son Larry and Chris Kelleher,  owners of "Finders Keepers" only take in excellent quality consignment furniture as well as some new brands. While I was visiting both gentleman were quite helpful and very gracious. They have been in business a long time and are a good source for both buying and selling furniture.

Finder Keepers
Home Furnishings Consignment
1226 Queen Street (Rt. 10)
Southington, CT.

860-793-0676


C. Dianne Zweig is the author of Hot Kitchen & Home Collectibles of the 30s, 40s, 50s and Hot Cottage Collectibles for Vintage Style Homes. She is also the Editor of I Antique Online an actively growing internet based resource community for people who buy, sell or collect antiques, collectibles and art. You can find Dianne’s fabulous retro and vintage kitchen, home and cottage collectibles at The Collinsville Antiques Company of New Hartford, CT, a 22,000 feet antique emporium with an in-house retro café. To read more articles by C. Dianne Zweig click on this link: C. Dianne Zweig’s Blog Kitsch ‘n Stuff Email me at dianne@cdiannezweig.com Visit my website, CDianneZweig.com Dianne is a member of: The American Society of Journalists and Authors The Society of Professional Journalists

Buying A Used Dinette Set For Elderly Parents

What To Look For When Buying Vintage Or Older Furniture For Mom Or Dad

What do you need to think about when you are out shopping for a second hand dinette set for an elderly family member?    Be sure that any table and chairs you are considering are really sturdy. You have to be very careful what you buy for this age group. Wobbly old seniors do not need wobbly old tables. You are probably already aware that many frail seniors steady themselves by holding onto a table or chair when lifting themselves up and away from the kitchen or dining table. With this in mind, look for used or vintage furniture in very good shape.

Inspect all tables and chairs carefully before buying them.
The photo shown here is of a  used Country style table with an easy to clean Formica top. The table top is easy to keep clean,   Make sure the legs on all the chairs and the table are SOLID and sturdy. When buying a kitchen or dining set for a frail elderly person, be sure to have at least one chair that has arms. Again, this is to help the person lift themselves up and away from the table. If you can not find a table set with this type of chair, consider buying one "orphaned" chair to use.

And don't buy a table that is too small either. Remember to leave room for visiting family
members and caretakers.

Be sure to read more articles about this topic at
http://cdiannezweig.blogspot.com/search/label/%22Vintage%20Mom%20And%20Dad%22

C. Dianne Zweig is the author of Hot Kitchen & Home Collectibles of the 30s, 40s, 50s and Hot Cottage Collectibles for Vintage Style Homes. She is also the Editor of I Antique Online an actively growing internet based resource community for people who buy, sell or collect antiques, collectibles and art. You can find Dianne’s fabulous retro and vintage kitchen, home and cottage collectibles at The Collinsville Antiques Company of New Hartford, CT, a 22,000 feet antique emporium with an in-house retro café. To read more articles by C. Dianne Zweig click on this link: C. Dianne Zweig’s Blog Kitsch ‘n Stuff Email me at dianne@cdiannezweig.com Visit my website, CDianneZweig.com Dianne is a member of: The American Society of Journalists and Authors The Society of Professional Journalists

Jenn Ski: An Artist With A Passion For Mid-Century Design

Abstract Designs By Jenn Ski

I just had to share with you these wonderful Mid-Century inspired designs created  by Jenn Ski an artist who sells on Etsy.com. I recently meant Jenn at a holiday fair in the South End of Boston. I have been an admirer of her designs for a long time. She sells abstract prints, tote bags, placemats , fabrics and more with her original designs. As you can see, Jenn brings a new twist to Atomic Era styles.

Jenn obtained a BFA in Graphic Design from the University of Massachusetts in 2005. Jenn explained to me that in the beginning she painted her Mid-Century designs with acrylics and then learned how to create her signature designs using computer generated giclee graphics. 

Visit: http://www.etsy.com/shop/JennSki

C. Dianne Zweig is the author of Hot Kitchen & Home Collectibles of the 30s, 40s, 50s and Hot Cottage Collectibles for Vintage Style Homes. She is also the Editor of I Antique Online an actively growing internet based resource community for people who buy, sell or collect antiques, collectibles and art. You can find Dianne’s fabulous retro and vintage kitchen, home and cottage collectibles at The Collinsville Antiques Company of New Hartford, CT, a 22,000 feet antique emporium with an in-house retro café. To read more articles by C. Dianne Zweig click on this link: C. Dianne Zweig’s Blog Kitsch ‘n Stuff Email me at dianne@cdiannezweig.com Visit my website, CDianneZweig.com Dianne is a member of: The American Society of Journalists and Authors The Society of Professional Journalists

What A Good Nursing Home Looks Like When You Visit

How To Find The Best Nursing Home For Mom Or Dad

I know there a many articles on how to go about choosing a Nursing Home for a parent, but I just have to add my two cents into the resource literature. We need to talk.
Selecting Mom Or Dad's Long Term Care 

Often mom or dad  gets directly admitted to a local Nursing Home after some awful event like a bad fall or medical event.
Sixty per cent of admissions to Nursing Homes come from hospital transfers (By the way, you do know that you can always move mom or dad to  another facility after the urgent crisis is over).
Finding The Right Nursing Home

Now  let's talk about choosing a Nursing  Home (a long term facility) when the family has time to actually select the placement? This is the topic I want to discuss with my readers. I have just made the rounds on  many Nursing Homes and can speak from experience (I am also a retired Nurse Practitioner). I am looking for a placement for a family member who is in need of more care than what an Assisted Living placement can offer. This is one of the most difficult jobs you will have to take on.
Medicare Guidelines To Review 

You will find  plenty of important  published guidelines to consider when  reviewing Nursing Homes. For those facts, I urge you to visit:  http://www.medicare.gov/nursing/overview.asp a site that will allow you to check out and compare  Nursing Homes  based on such important categories as "staffing", "health inspections" etc. While this is a very valuable website to look at when choosing a Nursing Home for a family member, I strongly urge you not to base your opinion  entirely on this data. It is only a start. Read more about the limitations of these  guidelines at  http://www.nytimes.com/2010/03/20/health/20patient.html?ref=health


Visit Nursing Homes In Person

Those in the know will tell you that you must actually go and visit each and every Nursing Home you are considering. What I found in so many Nursing Homes is that even though the lobbies were attractive and the receptionist in each place appeared  efficient and courteous ... something key was missing! In home after home that I toured, after I got past the entance way the total picture seemed to change.

As I toured many long term facilities, going floor to floor, in a very short time, I felt a sense of sadness and depression (and I was only visiting, imagine the residents who llive there). Something very critical was absent.  That something was a sense of LIFE! Read more to see if you can get what I mean.

What A Good Nursing Home Should Have

The long term care facility that I  really liked the most had the following characteristics that I share with you. 

As soon as I walked into the facility (that I will consider a "model" for what a good Nursing Home should have,  I was made to feel at home. I felt like I was walking into a family setting where several administrative staff members were bantering with each other and also with some of the ambulatory residents who were in the main lobby area. Their conversations were warm and engaging. Most striking was that all the residents of this facility looked well cared for; cheerfully dressed and busy; whether in bed, in the various dining areas, activity programs, clinical areas, or  bright and charming  windowed sitting areas.  The place was lively. There were other indicators of "life"...lots of healthy green plants, current magazines and newspapers displayed on prominent racks throughout  the facility, lots of display boards with hourly  activities written in large letters so residents could see what is going on each hour.There was obvious evidence that an informed Geriatric staff was paying attention to the real and holistic needs of their residents.


In The Nursing Home: What Do The Clinical Areas Look Like? 

In the "clinical areas" the staff wore colorful  uniforms and were truly  interacting with patients in respectful ways. When I was taken around by the Admission's director, she introduced me to the residents that we met along the way. She made the other patients feel like they were part of the community and that they had something valuable to offer. Staff communicated to residents professionally and not like children. I was introduced to ALL staff (nursing, dietary, activities, maintenance etc). I sensed that everyone that worked in this residence was valued and respected.

My guess is that the reason the residents in this facility looked better and appeared stronger is because of the tremendous efforts this long term residence is making to keep their residents oriented, active and involved in their care. There were no patients slumped over meal trays or"vegetating" alone  in beds with no sign of life in site.

I am convinced that older adults even with multiple health concerns can  thrive in the right nurturing environment. Like the green plants I saw sitting on the windowsills, older adults need to be cared for with   lots of attention, sunshine, nutrition, water and love. Visit many Nursing Homes before you make  this critical decision. Your instincts will lead you in the right direction.

Read http://www.nytimes.com/2010/03/20/health/20patient.html?ref=health

C. Dianne Zweig is the author of Hot Kitchen & Home Collectibles of the 30s, 40s, 50s and Hot Cottage Collectibles for Vintage Style Homes. She is also the Editor of I Antique Online an actively growing internet based resource community for people who buy, sell or collect antiques, collectibles and art. You can find Dianne’s fabulous retro and vintage kitchen, home and cottage collectibles at The Collinsville Antiques Company of New Hartford, CT, a 22,000 feet antique emporium with an in-house retro café. To read more articles by C. Dianne Zweig click on this link: C. Dianne Zweig’s Blog Kitsch ‘n Stuff Email me at dianne@cdiannezweig.com Visit my website, CDianneZweig.com Dianne is a member of: The American Society of Journalists and Authors The Society of Professional Journalists

Where Should The Hostess Sit At The Table ?: Antique Traditions of The 1900's

Arranging Your Proper Table: Tips From The 1900's

"Good Things To Eat: How To Prepare Them", is the title of 1909 booklet prepared by The Larkin Company. In the beginning chapters are discussion of how to arrange your table including discussion of how to set your table and how to seat your guests.

In 1909, here is what a proper seating would look like:

"Ordinarily the wife or hostess sits at the head, with the husband or host at the foot of the table, the other members of the family occupying seats at the sides. When a guest is at table, if a lady, she may occupy the seat at the right of the host; if a gentleman, the one at the right of the hostess".

Source; Good Things To Eat: And How To Prepare Them", The Larking Comoany, 1909

C. Dianne Zweig is the author of Hot Kitchen & Home Collectibles of the 30s, 40s, 50s and Hot Cottage Collectibles for Vintage Style Homes. She is also the Editor of I Antique Online an actively growing internet based resource community for people who buy, sell or collect antiques, collectibles and art. You can find Dianne’s fabulous retro and vintage kitchen, home and cottage collectibles at The Collinsville Antiques Company of New Hartford, CT, a 22,000 feet antique emporium with an in-house retro café.To read more articles by C. Dianne Zweig click on this link: C. Dianne Zweig’s Blog Kitsch ‘n Stuff Email me at dianne@cdiannezweig.comVisit my website, CDianneZweig.comDianne is a member of:The American Society of Journalists and AuthorsThe Society of Professional Journalists

Re-purpose An Antique Globe As A Centerpiece Bowl

Creative Idea From "Unconsumption" Using A Vintage Globe As A Centerpiece Bowl

I discovered this excellent non profit organization called "Unconsumption" . They describe themselves as "your daily source of inspiration for creative reuse and mindful consumption.

From "Unconsumption"

Give new life to something old by rethinking it. This globe, once a neglected attic dweller, is now a unique centerpiece …

C. Dianne Zweig is the author of Hot Kitchen & Home Collectibles of the 30s, 40s, 50s and Hot Cottage Collectibles for Vintage Style Homes. She is also the Editor of I Antique Online an actively growing internet based resource community for people who buy, sell or collect antiques, collectibles and art. You can find Dianne’s fabulous retro and vintage kitchen, home and cottage collectibles at The Collinsville Antiques Company of New Hartford, CT, a 22,000 feet antique emporium with an in-house retro café.To read more articles by C. Dianne Zweig click on this link: C. Dianne Zweig’s Blog Kitsch ‘n Stuff Email me at dianne@cdiannezweig.comVisit my website, CDianneZweig.comDianne is a member of:The American Society of Journalists and AuthorsThe Society of Professional Journalists

Paper-Bag Cookery: Union Bag And Paper Company 1912: Antique Cooking Ideas

1912 Housewives Saved Time And Money Cooking In Union Paper Bags

I bought a box lot of vintage cook books and came across this booklet entitled "Paper-Bag Cookery: Complete Dir

ections and Recipes". This gem was prepared by the Union Bag and Paper Company in 1912.

Is Paper Bag Cookery A Thing Of The Past ?

I suppose cooking in paper bags was a great way to avoid cleaning pots and pans. I am all for that idea. You don't see much talk about cooking in paper bags anymore. Perhaps at Thanksgiving time, someone might cook a turkey in a roasting bag. But when was the last time you heard of friends cooking in paper bags?

The theory of cooking food in paper bags was that you could seal up food and preserve flavors, juices and reduce shrinkage.I suppose we could learn a lot from this 1912 cookbook that would help thrifty housewives today.

What Paper-Bag Cookery Promised:

1. Your butcher bill will be reduced at least ten per cent. Beca

use your three pound roast will come out of t

he oven weighing three pounds!

2. You can user cheaper meats and poultry because this cooking method does wonders when cooking meat.

3. Your fuel gas bill bill will be reduced by 20 per cent. Less heat is required. Yu use less burners and less heat.

4. No washing greasy pans and kettle. (THAT IS A WONDERFUL IDEA). The oven is not soiled by splattering from cooking food.

5. There is no danger from half washed pans and germs lurking in the corners.

6. No cooking odor in the house.

7. You don't have to watch your food cook.

8. Cook everything at once in the bag.

9. You can bake, roast, boil, stew in the bag.

10. A novice becomes an expert at once!

Warning in booklet: Do not use ordinary bags, they will make your food taste like paper.

Source: Paper Bag Cookery: The Union Bag and Paper Company, 1912

C. Dianne Zweig is the author of Hot Kitchen & Home Collectibles of the 30s, 40s, 50s and Hot Cottage Collectibles for Vintage Style Homes. She is also the Editor of I Antique Online an actively growing internet based resource community for people who buy, sell or collect antiques, collectibles and art. You can find Dianne’s fabulous retro and vintage kitchen, home and cottage collectibles at The Collinsville Antiques Company of New Hartford, CT, a 22,000 feet antique emporium with an in-house retro café.To read more articles by C. Dianne Zweig click on this link: C. Dianne Zweig’s Blog Kitsch ‘n Stuff Email me at dianne@cdiannezweig.comVisit my website, CDianneZweig.comDianne is a member of:The American Society of Journalists and AuthorsThe Society of Professional Journalists

Checking Your Antique And Vintage Pots And Pans For Size

Retro Housewives Measuring Pots And Pans For Size

Housewives in the 1950s apparently had plenty of time to think about "how big their pots were" and other cooking ware essential facts. In a booklet called "The New Cook's Cook Book", attention was paid to good cooking rules.

1. Be sure your recipe is reliable. (LOL)

2. Read recipes carefully. (LOL)

3. Check the list of ingredients. (LOL)

4. Note the cooking time.(LOL)

5. Check the pot and pans for size.

Excerpt from "The New Cook's Cook Book"

Check your pots and pans for size. A cake baked in too big a pan is a sad affair, indeed. A cake baked in too small a pan is like a hall when the ball is over-amess in your oven. And what a stew you're in if the pot you're cooking in isn't big enough! Baking pans in the oven need elbow room, so you'll even want to check for size to see that they fit when you're planning an ovcn meal.

Pointers on Measuring Pots And Pan Sizes

Inside measurements of a pan are the ones that count. If in doubt about a cake or pie pan, take a tape measure or ruler and see what it meas

ures from the inside rim to the opposite side.

When in doubt what a casserole or saucepan holds, measure with water first to see what it holds.

When no measurements marked: If your pot does not have measurements shown, mark measurements on the bottom of the outside of the pot with your brightest nail polish.

Source: The New Cook's Cook Book, 1953, Edison Electric Institute

C. Dianne Zweig is the author of Hot Kitchen & Home Collectibles of the 30s, 40s, 50s and Hot Cottage Collectibles for Vintage Style Homes. She is also the Editor of I Antique Online an actively growing internet based resource community for people who buy, sell or collect antiques, collectibles and art. You can find Dianne’s fabulous retro and vintage kitchen, home and cottage collectibles at The Collinsville Antiques Company of New Hartford, CT, a 22,000 feet antique emporium with an in-house retro café.To read more articles by C. Dianne Zweig click on this link: C. Dianne Zweig’s Blog Kitsch ‘n Stuff Email me at dianne@cdiannezweig.comVisit my website, CDianneZweig.comDianne is a member of:The American Society of Journalists and AuthorsThe Society of Professional Journalists

Caring For Vintage And Antique Kitchen Utensils

"The Enterprising Housekeeper"

I picked up this handy 1908 booklet called "The Enterprising Housekeeper". This was a promotional piece from the Enterprise Manufacturing Company of Philadelphia. Dated 1908, this booklet still offers some helpful information for the kitschy thrifty homemaker about how to care for kitchen utensils (as well as some sharp social commentary).

Excerpt

"Nothing more quickly defines the cook than the care taken of his or her utensils, for a good workman loves and cares for his tools. There are keepers of stables who abuse their horses, and there are people who even abuse their children, as well as cooks who abuse the tools provided for them that their labors may be more easily performed".

In 1908, notice how the author compares abuse of kitchen tools to other societal abuses.

And here is another quote:

"The unappreciative cook is usually the unskilled one"
Whoa...they were tough in 1908!

Tins
Should be well dried before putting away or they will rust.

Pans And Kettles

Do not put pans and kettles partly filled with water on the stove to soak. This makes them more difficult to clean. Fill them with cold water and soak away from the heat.


Kitchen Knives and Forks

Never place kitchen knives and forks in water. Wash them thoroughly with the dish cloth in hot suds, then polish and rub them dry.

Sieves

Sieves should not be washed with soap. Clean with a brush and clear water. Use (baking) soda if necessary.

Outside of Pans and Saucepans

The outside of all pans and utensils should be cleaned and cared for just like the inside.

C. Dianne Zweig is the author of Hot Kitchen & Home Collectibles of the 30s, 40s, 50s and Hot Cottage Collectibles for Vintage Style Homes. She is also the Editor of I Antique Online an actively growing internet based resource community for people who buy, sell or collect antiques, collectibles and art. You can find Dianne’s fabulous retro and vintage kitchen, home and cottage collectibles at The Collinsville Antiques Company of New Hartford, CT, a 22,000 feet antique emporium with an in-house retro café.To read more articles by C. Dianne Zweig click on this link: C. Dianne Zweig’s Blog Kitsch ‘n Stuff Email me at dianne@cdiannezweig.comVisit my website, CDianneZweig.comDianne is a member of:The American Society of Journalists and AuthorsThe Society of Professional Journalists

Getting Ready To Downsize A House

Tips From The Editor of I Antique Online.com About How To Clean Out Your Basement

Getting ready to downsize a house is a BIG step couples take. I know first hand what it is like to venture into your basement and stare at 30 years plus of stuff! The good news is that I have already made a dent in the clean up process. Years ago I unloaded the cribs, high chairs, and kid junk.

Saving Binkies: Are You Kidding?

Well perhaps I am not being totally honest here about holding onto kid junk.. I mean I do still have plastic boxes filled with every report card, book report and handmade card that my kids brought home. Why on earth do we all keep all this old paper? The answer is nostalgia. Yesterday I was cleaning out an old desk drawer and I found three rubber baby binkies from the last kid. He is twenty now. Do you think he really wants to inherit his old pacifiers?

Staying Sane When Downsizing Your House

O.K back to the subject of downsizing. How do you accomplish this task and stay sane. First you need a strategy and then you need supplies. To accomplish your goal you will need to set a realistic schedule. Now don't panic. Just because it took thirty years to get all stuffed up with junk, does not mean it will take thirty years to liquidate the load. But it will take time, so be prepared.

Step One: Get the supplies you need to be able to unload the stuff.

Supplies
1. giant industrial strength black plastic bags
2. plastic storage boxes
3. cardboard boxes from liquor store
4. giant zip lock plastic bags
5. brown paper shopping bags from grocery store

Step Two: Enlist help: Do Not Do This Yourself

If you are a baby boomer with a bad back or a couch potato with aches and pains....do not attempt to clean out thirty years of stuff by yourself. Hire a high school kid or handyman or bribe your kids, but get help with the clean out! You will need help getting things off high shelves, carrying bags of garbage to trash bins, bundling bags of like items etc. Basically you need a stuffer/sshlepper.

Step Three: Begin Creating a List of Categories

You will need to know ahead of time what is going where. Here are some common categories to consider.

Categories For Junk Liquidation

1. clothes to give away to charity
2. garbage
3. toys to give away to charity
4. books to donate to library
5. collectibles to sell
6. bric a brac to bring to Salvation Army or Goodwill etc.
7. Linens, blankets, toiletries etc. to bring to a shelter.
8. keepsakes to offer to family members.
9. junk to bring to dump yard .
10. Antiques and valuables to sell.
11. family photos and memorabilia to hold onto .
12. Broken or outdated furniture and appliances to junk.
13. old files to shred.

Step Four: Begin Sorting Out Junk

With help, I hope, you can set up your boxes and bags in the basement and start sorting out what you have into like categories. Be sure to label the boxes and bags so you know what is going where.
Once you start categorizing items, put the similar boxes and bags together in ceratin areas of your basement. Be careful not to mix up good stuff from garbage. Did I just say that? It's all JUNK isn't it?

Be sure to visit my site:

Estate Mavens: Help With Estate Liquidation

C. Dianne Zweig is the author of Hot Kitchen & Home Collectibles of the 30s, 40s, 50s and Hot Cottage Collectibles for Vintage Style Homes. She is also the Editor of I Antique Online an actively growing internet based resource community for people who buy, sell or collect antiques, collectibles and art. You can find Dianne’s fabulous retro and vintage kitchen, home and cottage collectibles at The Collinsville Antiques Company of New Hartford, CT, a 22,000 feet antique emporium with an in-house retro café.To read more articles by C. Dianne Zweig click on this link: C. Dianne Zweig’s Blog Kitsch ‘n Stuff Email me at dianne@cdiannezweig.comVisit my website, CDianneZweig.comDianne is a member of:The American Society of Journalists and AuthorsThe Society of Professional Journalists

Are My Parent's Old Things Valuable? Selling Antiques And Collecitbles On-Line

Cleaning Out My Parent's House: Is It Junk Or Valuable?

When the time comes to gather up your parent's collections, how do you know what is "JUNK" and
what belongs in the category of "antique" or "collectible"? To answer that question, I would like to get you to wonder about two key terms, "junk" and "valuable".

Junk Shop Versus Antique Shop: It's Just A Name

Why is it that some shops call themselves "Junk shops" and sell really neat stuff and other stores call themselves "Antique shops" and sell JUNK?

What makes a place a true JUNK shop? Can you be both....part JUNK and part ANTIQUE? Think about some of the shops you like to visit......would you buy a really expensive lamp or table in a place called "JUNK Shop"? Or do you expect only bargains and throwaways in a "JUNK Shop"? The answer is you can find all sorts of things everywhere!

Do You Know What Is Valuable In The Basement?
When you look at your parent's stuff, are you really sure that you know what the "junk" really is? Perhaps you think the "junk" is in the garage or in the basement? And you assume the "good stuff" is in the living room? Hold on...you may be assuming too much.

Reality T.V. Show On Antiques Love Finding Treasures

For starters, an entire industry of Reality T.V. shows are
based on the idea of finding hidden treasures in all the "wrong places". These made for T.V. pickers prefer junkyards, storage bins, garbage piles for the "good stuff". The premise of these popular shows is the thrill of discovering something "valuable" buried in a pile of "junk".

Is Mom Or Dad's Old Things Valuable?

But what exactly do we mean by "valuable"? As The American Pickers have shown us, there is a good deal of "value" in rusty old bicycle frames. But how many of you want an old bicycle frame? Would the lovely "Antique Shop" in the center of your town want pop's old bicycle frame? Perhaps not, but that doesn't mean there isn't an eager buyer somewhere else. So value really comes down to what is important to an individual buyer and you will discover that there are unique markets everywhere for everything.

Good Bye Antique Price Guide, Hello Internet

Before the internet, many folks relied on books such as Antique Price Guides to help them determine "value". Now, going on-line has replaced looking in books and is a very easy way to learn about the "value" of objects in the market place. And what the internet has done is create a global buying field.

Internet Is A Global Marketplace For Antiques And Collectibles

Many antique dealers have learned that they can get much more for a collectible on-line than in their shops, because they have the entire world competing to buy a particular "collectible". And size doesn't matter. Anything can be shipped and the right buyer will pay for shipping if you have what they really want.

Selling Your Parent's Antiques And Collectibles On-Line

So if you are getting ready to sell off antiques and collectibles that you have acquired , you might want to consider using some of the many on-line selling venues. To learn more about selling on-line, visit http://iantiqueonline.ning.com/ and go to the many group forums which focus on the growing number of online selling sites . Here is a partial list below (featured on I Antique Online.com.)

If you want someone to come into the house and take over the sale of the contents of the entire house visit my information website: http://iantiqueonline.ning.com/group/estatemavenshelpwithestateliquidation for more resources.

Selling Your Antiques And Collectibles On-Line : Visit These Information Groups

These are group forums where you will hear about the experiences of others who are selling antiques and collectibles on these popular selling venues. You can joion these discussion for FREE
eBay Connection
Etsy Connection
Bonanza Collection
Ruby Lane
Ruby Plaza Connection
eCRATER Connection
Go Antiques.com
Tias.com Connection

The photos featured in this article are from The Junk Shop Of Canton, Canton CT. Eric, the owner is always buying, so if you are looking to sell the contents of a house, contact Eric.860-693-6039.

C. Dianne Zweig is the author of Hot Kitchen & Home Collectibles of the 30s, 40s, 50s and Hot Cottage Collectibles for Vintage Style Homes. She is also the Editor of I Antique Online an actively growing internet based resource community for people who buy, sell or collect antiques, collectibles and art. You can find Dianne’s fabulous retro and vintage kitchen, home and cottage collectibles at The Collinsville Antiques Company of New Hartford, CT, a 22,000 feet antique emporium with an in-house retro café.To read more articles by C. Dianne Zweig click on this link: C. Dianne Zweig’s Blog Kitsch ‘n Stuff Email me at dianne@cdiannezweig.comVisit my website, CDianneZweig.comDianne is a member of:The American Society of Journalists and AuthorsThe Society of Professional Journalists