The only true “must” about my recent visit to Ann Arbor, Michigan was to spend time with my Mom and Sister as well as to meet both my Mom’s new boyfriend and dog (I was crazy for both of them). And that is what I did and I tell you, it was wonderful. They spoiled me rotten with love sweet love.
But I do have my favorites that I try to get to each time when I am in that neck of the woods. Perhaps on the top of that list is Treasure Mart in the Kerrytown neighborhood. Like the Dêpot-Ventes in France that I so adore, it is somewhere between junk shop and antique store. You never, ever know what you are going to find but as the stuffed antelope at the door proclaims, you are “welcome” to dig in and dig around. Supposedly, there are folks that come every single day to Treasure Mart and that doesn’t surprise me a bit as the merchandise is priced to turn over as quickly as possible.
We actually headed there the morning after my arrival (which probably is telling, isn’t it?) and in my jet-lagged haziness, I let a few interesting pieces slip through my fingers.
I was in a decidedly old-fashioned country mood and was delighted by the piles of gilded china, the doilies and this enormous apple-blossom covered set.
I most certainly would have brought home any one (or all three!) of these fine ships for Remi. The least expensive was only $75 (in France it could easily be triple that) and its imperfections made it all the more charming.
My favorite piece that first day was this wonderful oak rocker. There are quite a few homes in the area in the Arts and Crafts architectural style and I know that this beauty must have happily resided in one for decades. Why anyone would part with it I’ll never know and found it to be a steal at $200.
Yes, the comfort of country and the reminders of my childhood. Different times. I was very drawn to all of the quilts on offer as well. When I was not quite seven years old, my Mom piled my Sister and I into the car and drove us far out into the country in Ohio to a little red schoolhouse that had been made into a home. The woman living there made quilts for a living and we were both allowed to choose one for the Victorian home that we were soon going to move to in Mason, Michigan. I used mine until it completely and utterly shredded apart. I even kept the shreds for years later. No surprise then that I looked longingly at the slightly torn quilt in the window, especially at only $30!
Lest you think that there are only the golden oldies at Treasure Mart, I present to you this brand new Ralph Lauren duvet and a faboo brass lamp that could easily go for ten times the price on One King’s Lane. I couldn’t help but think that several of my designer friends would appreciate it.
So what did make it home with me this trip? Not much actually as I was in too great of need of practical Americana like jeans that actually fit to bring back as much as usual. But on our second visit I couldn’t resist two woodcuts for $1, I bought my Mom and I each silly sunglasses for the same price (mine are rather Bonoesque, don’t you think?), a chunky stone and semi-precious necklace that will be great next summer and what became known as the “chickateapot” because…well, it made me happy!
More from Ann Arbor to follow soon. Here is to a great week ahead!
Oh you know, Mom did her typical thing were I turned around and she was wearing them. She said "Hey Heather, how would you like to see the world through rose colored glasses?" (pretty witty our Mom) so I ended up getting them and buying her another pair because at 50 cents each, why not?
Love you Sister!
That would be fantastic! Especially as you included me in your wardrobe selection. 🙂 And I thought that I had already translated that for you! Oops! Yep, they are great places and perfect for you with your fabulous shop, The Hen House!
Wait – what? How did I miss those awesome sunglasses?? You and Treasure Mart are a match made in heaven! I will look forward to more takes of your visit in future posts but will need no reminders for how wonderful it was to spend 11 days with you!! Le sigh.
So, thats what the sign means in my kitchen!The Depot VENTE.Somewhere between junk and antique!That is so perfect for me you have no idea!Thanks for the translation!PS. I will photo copy the article to send to you!Of Moi in Where Women Cook!Does that sound good?
Oh Penelope, it is a far cry from the San Francisco Antiques Show! It is very kind of you to comment. But yes, that little teapot, with the baby chick on the mama's back is just a perfect reminder for such a perfect trip. Remi and I are experts at bringing things back from our trips but this visit wasn't about that. 🙂
Hope all is well with you!
Great post! Love that little teapot; and it is hard to bring stuff back! That happy teapot will always remind you of this trip!
Debra, how are you doing with your snow? I bet Dylan dog has had a blast! I am actually pretty tired today. That is often how it goes–I get through the first couple of days from sheer will then my mood/energy drops for two days and then I am fine. Luckily, Remi and I had a great day out in the country today and I took a ton of photos–that made me feel awake!
xo,
H
Thank you so much Elizabeth. Really appreciate that. Bisous.
And as for the shopping, well, I have bought too much from them in the past and know that I have to be on my best buying behaviour when I go!
Looks like you had some retail/antique fun while visiting. You're stronger then I am when it comes to shopping I would have left with something no matter how small. I hope you're well rested now and enjoying being back with your men!
XX
Debra~
Such restraint…..how did you manage to take so little home? The prices are indeed much cheaper than those I've seen in France. I am a sucker for anything that reminds me of my childhood and grandparents – I'm sure I would have purchased half of the shop and then wondered how I would get it home and what I'd do with it!
I'm pleased that you had such a wonderful trip. It is difficult when your heart is split between 2 continents. Take care.
Bisous