Tolling Of The (School) Bell.

I remember passing by my elementary school during the summer, wondering what the next grade would be like. What will I learn? Who will my teacher be? And perhaps, most importantly, will we play kickball during recess?

"Rosemount School", from Bree, Ree.

Theme Of The Week: Gifts For Dad.

"Crown Card", from Present and Correct.

Dad. The go-to guy. Need someone to mow the grass, kill a bug, unclog the toilet, play a game of catch, walk the dog or catch a ride to the mall? How about some help buying that first car of yours? Or perhaps you need an amateur photographer to document your graduation ceremony? No worries folks, dad is here.

Memories of dad's deeds are abundant, to say the least. And despite his shortcomings (the barbecue gone awry or the numerous, embarrassing fashion disasters), dad is the constant. Seriously, what's not to love about a guy who's been wearing the same outfit since 1981?

This week, we celebrate the awesomeness of dads. We'll spotlight the coolest handmade and vintage Father's Day gifts/finds. We'll also share a few infamous dad-related tales--and believe us, there are many to be told!

Enjoy our "Gifts For Dad" week--Happy Father's Day, Dads!

From Past To Presents.

Antique photographs, set of 5, from Sadie Olive.

We love the sweet, honest nature of antique photographs and how they remind us of the "good 'ol days". In fact, we think a stroll down memory lane would make a fantastic Mother's Day gift.

This weekend, ask your mom about her childhood. Where did she grow up? What did she do as a kid? Did she have a dog? Where did she live? Find out more about that special lady in your life.

To break the ice (and get the dialogue moving in the right direction), we suggest visiting Sadie Olive's Etsy shop for a slew of vintage gift-giving ideas. Make this Mother's Day one to remember!

Part of our "Gifts For Mom" series--more finds later today!

Road Trip Memory: The Road To Gallup, 2010.

Rain, snow, wind and bright sunshine...all in a day's drive. Salt Lake City, UT to Gallup, NM--one of the most scenic stretches I've ever driven. We were hoping to make a quick stop at the Four Corners National Monument, but it was closed. Did I mention it was a 12-mile side trip from the road we were on (the same road that posted no sign of said closure)? Not bitter at all--just sayin'.

Part of our extended "Road Trip" series. More finds (and memories) from the road, all this week!

Road Trip Memory: The Oregon Coast, 2009.

The only thing more ridiculous than the beauty of the Oregon coast was Karl's "beach" shorts. But when you live in the Pacific Northwest, you're not really prepared to dive in any kind of water--so we'll let him slide.

If you're planning to visit the coast, we recommend Lincoln City--and specifically, The Ester Lee Motel, a cute, beach side motel with 15-20 cozy cottages. Relaxation achieved.

Part of our extended "Road Trip" series. More road trip finds (and memories), all this week!

Theme Of The Week: Featherette Favorites.

My favorite food is homemade macaroni and cheese. It forever reminds me of the summer picnics I used to frequent, back in Virginia (think June, sweltering 95° heat and you get the gist). True, I hated the hot weather,  but I loved the food: fried chicken, greens, casseroles, and of course, macaroni and cheese. Yum!

Alton Brown's baked mac and cheese, recipe here.

 















This week, we'll be spotlighting a few of our handmade / vintage favorites--favorites that take us down memory lane, spark innovation / creativity, or simply make us smile. We'll also share a few more of our favorite foods and recipes too.

Got a favorite food or recipe? Let us know in the comment section below.