Inspiration for a Monday

Monday already?! Blerg! To be honest, that sentiment is little uttered around here, since I’ve mentioned before that Doug’s “weekend” is Weds-Thurs and I work retail with a few days on, a few days off, and no true weekend at all. Anyway, I’m sure that those of you who have President’s day off are enjoying the extra day of relaxation, and those of us who are at work (or going to work in about an hour, like me) will shake our fists but put our heads down and do the best we can at our jobs.

I have a few cool posts in the works but nothing ready to share just yet. So, I decided to corral some things that were inspiring to me this weekend!

Tale of Two Cities

A Tale of Two Cities— The first Dickens book I’ve ever managed to make my way through, and despite his meandering sentences paragraphs chapters, I really liked it! In full disclosure, however, I did listen to it on audiobook. My second audiobook experience! If you liked the themes of redemption in Les Misérables, I highly recommend this (shorter) classic.

Island Beneath the Sea

As long as we are talking about books, I read Island Beneath the Sea, a historical fiction novel about the Haitian slave Revolution months ago and it is still haunting me! I can’t wait to give it a re-read and I picked up another work by author Isabel Allende, this one grabbed my interest as it begins in Chile–in the town of Angela’s birth!

Downtown Encinitas

Encinitas, CA– It had been far too long since I visited this laid-back beach town. I surprised Doug with a quick trip up the coast to shop at Lou’s Records. After that, we walked up and down the shops on Pacific Highway even though it was cold and windy! Can’t wait to get back up there on a nicer day, camera in hand.

The album we picked up at Lou’s was Local Natives’ Hummingbird, which you can listen to here if you have Spotify:

PS- Check out this awesome BBC article about Sherry & John from Young House Love! They never cease to be an inspiration to me!

Take a Tour: Vestige

Before our big move from Kansas last September, I was combing through the San Diego Craigslist for mid-century modern furnishings. I happened upon a few pieces offered by the newly opened shop, Vestige. I looked them up on facebook and reached out. Then, when we moved Doug and I stopped into the shop for a little get-to-know-you sesh. It turns out that Greg, the owner, has relatives in Kansas–in the town we had just moved from! Small world, indeed.

Vestige Modern

Vestige Modern

While we haven’t bought anything from the shop (yet!!) Doug and I love stopping in for some great conversation and to peruse the items. Once our savings pool gets a little deeper, I’m sure we’ll be picking up some vintage wares for our apartment. The only question is what? I would take the entire inventory if I could. It’s hard when there are so many sweet pieces to covet!

Vestige Modern

Vestige Modern

Vestige Modern

Greg has a keen eye for unique pieces and the shop is staged in a way that it’s easy to imagine any of them in your own home. He also really knows his stuff backwards and forwards–designers, iconic pieces, and values.

Vestige Modern

Q&A:

Where are you from and how did you end up in San Diego?

I moved to SD from Wyoming in 2002 to attend school.

How long has the store been open?

Vestige has been open since June 15th 2012 so a little over 7 months.

How did you first get interested in vintage furnishings?

I began my love of anything vintage just after I moved to SD.  I started out buying and selling vintage clothing.  Over time it turned into furniture/accessories.  I’ve always felt connected to 50’s and 60’s culture, the fashion, music, film, design, cars, but mostly the furniture.  I fell in love with the hunt.  Nothing beats uncovering something really great.

Vestige Modern

What’s the best part about having your own store?

The best part of owning my own store is the freedom to make my own decisions.  There isn’t some upper level manager barking orders at me.  Although I have found that the freedom to do my own thing definitely comes with a price (long hours, bills, responsibility).

What tips would you give to someone wanting to go hunting for vintage items?

As for where I do my hunting/buying I have to keep that to myself. Haha.  I would suggest taking your time furnishing your home, especially with vintage items.  Part of the fun is the hunt.  Buy things that you connect with and really love.

Vestige Modern

4633 30th St, Ste A
San Diego, CA
92116

Vestige on Facebook // Vestige on Etsy

Check out some of my other tours by clicking here

Do you have any recommendations for a “take a tour” post? I’m still working on my interior photography skills and I would LOVE to come shoot your home or store! E-mail me

Valentine 2013

Happy Valentine’s Day to you! From me and my furry little valentine.