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How Shadowchaser Got His Name front cover

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My Journey to Writing and Publishing a Children’s Picture Book

by Deb C March 31, 2024

First Steps in My Writing and Publishing Journey

It’s been a long journey to writing and publishing my children’s picture book. I’ve been paid for writing, starting in high school, but always for non-fiction, whether for work, or as a free-lance writer. It wasn’t until I was a mother of two young children that I started to think about writing a children’s book. I started to jot down ideas based upon real incidents.

Something that happened when one of my sons was around three stuck with me as the basis of a book. I wrote out various ideas until I came up with a short plot. I bought or borrowed library books that offered advice on how to write a story and pitch to a publisher. I crafted letters to a local and a national publisher. Their rejection letters were polite but firm.

After rewriting and re-submitting, I still had no takers. I put the story aside, but saved my notes and rejections.

More Steps in My Writing and Publishing Journey

I continued to do free-lance writing, as well as newsletters and marketing materials for my business and for employers. Once in a while I would come across the folder with my story. Sometimes I would jot down more notes.

Years, and then decades went by. One day when my older son was about 20 and home from college, he suggested that it was time to clear out the very back of his closet where I had stored some childhood toys and stuffed animals. One of the stuffed animals was central to my story. I was reluctant to give it to a thrift shop, and the other animals due to the memories attached to them. My son suggested that I take photos of them so I’d have them to bring back memories, but not take up lots of space.

We gathered them all up and arranged them on the couch and he sat down amongst them. I took some photos, although I wish I had taken more and some closeups. This was in the days of film, not SmartPhones, so I didn’t know how the photos came out until I had them developed. My photos were pretty bad. However, my son’s idea was sound. I have been able to let go of things and give them away or donate them instead of storing them. I have also recommended this to others.

Amazon and My Writing and Publishing Journey

When my first published book came out, self-publishing by print-on-demand was just being offered. The book was a memoir that I was helping a female politician write. While I suggested trying the print-on-demand (POD) approach, she opted to pay a local printer to print a limited quantity to start. She sold and gave away dozens of copies and gave me several boxes. I sent some to an online bookseller, who periodically orders more. During this process, I learned about how to get and ISBN number for my book and other steps to publishing.

I investigated Amazon once it offered POD. I took a few InDesign and Photoshop classes as well as some on POD publishing. I hired a Graphic Arts student I met while working at the Independent Association of Framingham State Alumni. She helped me design a couple of journal style books including one about craft beer and format them for POD on Amazon and through IngramSpark, which distributes to bookstores and libraries. I also sold collectibles and second hand items on Amazon through my account. This helped defray the monthly fee that I had to pay as IngramSpark was placing my books on Amazon rather that my doing it directly.

Bit by bit, I learned how to create eBooks and format paperbacks and publish them directly on Amazon. They weren’t the kind of books that a library might buy so I didn’t use IngramSpark. Slowly but surely I’ve added more books on Amazon, and it’s nice to get notifications that I will be receiving royalties for them.

Finding an Illustrator for My Children’s Picture Book

As I was helping another Graphic Arts student with financial aid, I put her to work on various projects at my job. One was a holiday card that was sent out to alumni. One recipient called up and asked if she could meet the artist who created the design. Next thing she hired the student to illustrate a children’s book that she had been working on. The student received two other commissions as a result. After seeing what she did for the children’s book, I decided I’d better get on her client list quickly, as it was filling up fast.

We huddled and I gave her my current draft of the book and my photos of the stuffed animals. She came up with a series of watercolors of scenes that I had described in my story. They helped me to better craft the book.

Writing a Children’s Book – Not as Easy as You Might Think

I confess I picked up and put down the project after getting the illustrations. I started to cut out words and scenes. I signed up for a couple of writing webinars, then courses, as I realized I still had a lot to learn. I knew children’s picture books should be no more than 32 pages. I learned more about structure and limiting words. Wow, did I cut out words and scenes. Some I had added since my original queries, thinking I needed more.

Using what I’d learned from formatting my other books, I designed a cover and interior using PowerPoint, which is a lot easier than InDesign. Still, I’ve done about 30 drafts, tweaking colors and revising images. I found a company online that would format my project into an eBook. And one of the picture book seminars I signed up for included help with keywords and other steps involving Amazon. But, every time I thought I was done, I wasn’t.

I changed my title a couple of times. It helped to have feedback from other writers during writing workshops.

I had several friends, librarians, and professors proofread my book. It took a village and I made more revisions.

Writing is One Thing, Publishing a Children’s Book Is Another

Ever after following formatting guidelines, it took several revisions to upload documents that were acceptable to me and to Amazon and IngramSpark. There was one revision uploaded that held the release date while I worked on it. Over several months, I took more writing workshops and reworked the manuscript. A couple of book designers picked my cover to critique and gave me valuable advice and insights. I liked the earlier edition, but always wondered if it needed a little more eye-appeal. Thanks to them, I created a brighter and more eye-catching cover and brighter interior.

And Then There is Promoting Your Children’s Book Before and After Publishing

While working on the book itself, during the writing seminars, I realized that publishing includes promoting. So, as I tweaked my book, I was also working on how to promote it. Hmmm…I had a website, but it had a glitch in the theme and I couldn’t edit it. Stymied. I hired someone on Fiverr, who said she was in the U.S., but was actually in Nigeria. There were disconnects with communication and a struggle to get the website where I was happy and I could end the relationship. I’ve usually been happy with those I’ve hired on Fiverr.
Anyway, authors need a website and an email list. I’ve had a blog, as well as the book website, but never got the hang of collecting emails. Another challenge and dimension to publishing. Keeping my brain active. I signed up for Convertkit to manage my email list. It’s used and recommended by one of the publishing gurus whom I respect.

I’ve joined writing groups on Facebook to learn from and share promotional ideas.

Homestretch to Writing and Publishing My First Children’s Picture Book

Well, not really the homestretch, as the journey doesn’t end when the book is released. Before and after the book is released there is getting the word out to my circle of friends and associates, and organizations that I’m involved with, plus doing select promotions online, etc. Luckily I can hire someone to help with some of the promotion who have been vetted by the experts whose writing seminars and workshops I’ve taken.

I’ve started to place notices and ads and created business cards announcing my new book. Remembering to bring and give out my cards is a whole other new exercise.

The best part will be when the publishing release comes as it’s been a long journey to being able to share the story with the public, however many I sell or give away. The story that I’ve wanted to capture and have others enjoy will finally be a reality.

Here is the link to the ebook version: How Shadowchaser Got His Name.

Here is the link to the paperback version: How Shadowchaser Got His Name.

My Journey Writing and Publishing a Children’s Picture Book Will Continue

Once my children’s picture book is published, as I mentioned, the promotion will continue. i will be updating my website, GrandmothersTrunk.com. My email list will grow, and I’ll be working on a newsletter.

Oh, and then there’s a sequel to my children’s book. My character, Shadowchaser, and his owner, get into trouble.

And there’s more to come from Grandmother’s Trunk Press.

Here’s an Author Talk podcast on YouTube when How Shadowchaser Got His Name was launched: Celebrating the release of “How Shadowchaser Got His Name: A Cat Tale ” (youtube.com)

Have you had a long journey to a life’s goal? Have you written, or want to write a book? Share your journey below.

So many beers and breweries, how to keep track?

If you want to keep more detailed records of where you went and what beer you enjoyed, you might like Keeping Up with Craft Beers: A Journal for Your Tasting Adventures. You can list up to 100 beers, as well as list breweries and brew pubs you liked as well as beer festivals.

Want to learn how to start a blog?

Here’s some courses to get you started: Start A Travel Blog

or Start A Blogging Business.

Want or need help with your blog or website? I’ve found inexpensive help on Fiverr.

Check out our Etsy shop, GrandmotherstrunkUS

March 31, 2024 0 comment

Budget-minded Craft Beer Adventures Family Fun New experience Outdoor Activities Travel in the United States

First Night Northampton, Mass.: A New Year’s Eve Delight

by Deb C January 11, 2024

First Night Northampton, Mass: A New Year’s Eve Delight

It used to be that my husband and I would celebrate New Year’s Eve at a neighborhood party at a couple’s house we could walk to. Sadly, the hosts, and many of our neighbors and friends have since moved away. Some years, we have ventured the six hour drive North to Eastport, Maine, for it’s fun and unusual celebration. Searching for something a bit closer to home this past Dec. 31st., 2023, we found First Night Northampton, Mass., which is a New Year’s Eve Delight.

First Night Northampton, Mass.: A New Year’s Eve Tradition

First Night Northampton is a festive New Year’s Eve tradition going back decades to 1985. We live near Boston, Mass. which has a well known First Night, but we were unaware of Northampton’s. Like Boston, Northampton is a walkable city, and has a multitude of entities that participate in the festival. It’s grown to the point of 23 odd venues. Smith College, businesses, and churches, as well as traditional entertainment establishments, provide the necessary spaces for all the entertainers and audiences. Even a bank offers a warming center with bathrooms and hot beverages.

How it works: You purchase a button which admits you to all venues. Performances and activities are scheduled on the hour, beginning at 12 noon. They run for approximately 45 minutes so you have 15 minutes to walk to the next one.

Sometimes the settings are as enjoyable as the acts themselves. The Academy of Music building houses a wonderful vintage theater built in 1891 where Harry Houdini and Mae West and other legends once performed.

First Night Northampton, Mass.: A New Year’s Eve Delight for Young and Old

First Night Northampton has activities and entertainment for all ages and multiple interests. This festival of arts starts at noon with child-oriented entertainment, which is then a part of each hour’s eclectic performances until 6 p.m. Each event/activity/entertainment lasts about 45 minutes. About as long as many kids can sit still. Family activities this past New Year’s Eve included: a circus, a “mad” scientist, comedy magic, a juggler, face painting and balloon making, a yoyo guy, storytellers, and a puppet show.

The shows most likely to appeal to senior citizens wrap up by 9 p.m.

No staying up late or being awakened by fireworks! They start at 6:15, so that everyone can be in bed at a reasonable hour.

The fireworks are shot off a parking garage in mid-downtown. They can easily be seen from cars in nearby public parking lots and from many convenient vantage points, including in strollers. Once the show is over, it may be only a block or two walk to your parked car. There’s free on-street parking and in municipal lots, except for the downtown parking garage.

First Night Northampton, Mass.: 12 Hours of Musical Performances and Special Acts

Whether you’re seeking a day or evening filled with lively energy or a more laid-back experience, Northampton’s New Year’s Eve extravaganza has it all.

The contemporary performers at First Night run from amateur ensembles, such as The Raging Grannies, the AEIOUkes who are a mix of amateur and trained musicians, to professional musicians and groups of note. Some of the musicians and singers play or played with headlining Rock Bands and received Grammy nominations. Then there’s the delightful Ardaigh, an Irish band, and Klezamir, a rockin’ klezmer band as well as Happy Valley Guitar orchestra and the Offbeat Womyn’s Drumming Ensemble.

The Raging Grannies delivered their political commentaries in clever, whimsical, or poetic manner set to familiar tunes. We weren’t familiar with them, but chose them as the name appealed to us.

The casual upbeat atmosphere at First Night Northampton 24 lent itself to literal dancing in the aisles whether the two-step or the hora. For those who were in the mood for more dancing during the later evening hours, there was the Peace and Rhythm Dance Party.

As midnight approaches, it’s traditional to gather at the Hotel Northampton for the iconic raising of the ball. On Dec. 31, 2023, Steve Sanderson of WRSI hosted the Midnight Countdown with Peace & Rhythm DJs getting folks on their feet dancing.

Navigating First Night Northampton, Mass.

First, we went to FirstNightNorthampton.org.

We later picked up a newspaper that had a full page devoted to the event:

The website has all kinds of helpful information. We downloaded the performance schedule.

The next thing we did was look at FirstNightNorthampton.org to read the descriptions of all the performers and acts. They were impressive. My husband and I marked halfway across the box of which ones appealed to us with contrasting yellow and green highlighters. For most of the hour slots, we found performers we both agreed upon. We downloaded and printed out the map with the key to all the venues. As it was half the size of a letter size piece of paper, we then enlarged it to a full sheet. We highlighted the venues where we needed to go on the map. By and large, most weren’t that far from each other.

As you can see from the wear and tear of the the performance schedule and downtown map, we got a lot of use out of them.

Once we were sure we could commit to going, we bought our buttons online. We had to pick them up in person day of, but we saved $4 each by purchasing ahead of time and where we picked them up was in the heart of downtown. They also offered a discount for buying before Dec. 31, seniors, and adult day only (until 6 p.m.) buttons. There was a lower price for kids up to 10 and only 2 were free.

Finding parking was easy and plentiful when we arrived in Northampton on Dec. 31st., which was about 11:20 a.m. As we walked towards the Downtown, we could hear a lively band playing al fresco. Thorne’s Marketplace, where we could pick up our buttons, is in the middle of Main St., and just a few blocks away. We had no problem finding the First Night Box Office (tables set up in a hallway) and waiting in line wasn’t a trial.

As soon as we claimed our buttons, we attached them to our coats. Each venue had Greeters/Checkers at the door looking for buttons. It was very casual and easy as people just walked through entrances without pausing, much easier that using ticket takers. Checkers tended to be senior citizens and there was one in a wheelchair.

Note that, for those with children or finicky bladders, in addition to two designated warming centers with restrooms and hot beverages, several of the entertainment spaces allowed use of their bathrooms.

First Night Northampton, Mass.: Plenty of Shopping, Food and Drink Options

Downtown Northampton, Mass. boasts a charming downtown. It’s main and side streets are lined with charming shops and businesses. Thorne’s Marketplace, a circa 1873 historic three story commercial building, is home to an array of independent, locally-owned retailers and restaurants lining a sort of in-door wooden-floored alley. You could easily spend a day there. Check out ShopNoho and Northampton.live for more information about Northampton’s businesses. We walked by several vintage shops that I hope to explore someday.

If you’ve been reading this blog, you know that we are fans of craft beer. Whenever we go somewhere, we seek out breweries. Northampton has several, some steps away from where we parked. When it was time for a break, we went to Northampton Brewery Bar and Grill, western New England’s original brewpub.

It’s not only brewery, but also has a full bar and boasts a fireplace and rooftop beer garden. Unlike some breweries that have a sparce food menu, it offers a wide variety of appetizers, salads and soups, burgers, fish fry, and a kids menu. The food and beer were just right and service was quick and friendly. TV’s were placed so we could catch the end of the afternoon football game.

After catching the fireworks, and a few more performances, we found Progression Brewing Company on a side street off Main Street and just blocks away from our parked car. They had a more limited menu, but still better than many others. We split a handmade pretzel and enjoyed a flight of IPA’s. They were gearing up for a New Year’s Eve party with live band before we left for our hotel.

First Night Northampton, Mass.: A Fantastic Way to Spend New Year’s Eve

If you are looking for a fun and different way to spend New Year’s Eve, as we were, seriously consider First Night Northampton. What an incredible variety of entertainment and venues! What a reasonable price – $16 – for 12 packed hours! My only regret is that we didn’t go a day earlier to experience more of what the downtown had to offer. We were so busy moving from one performance to the next that we didn’t have time to take in much, except quick glances at the shop windows and signs. My other regret is that I wish we had gone a day earlier. If we didn’t drive there day of, we might have had the extra energy to go to the later dance parties and been part of the countdown and ball raising at midnight.

Do you have a favorite way of spending New Year’s Eve? Or a fun place to spend it? Please comment below.

So many beers and breweries, how to keep track?

Want to learn how to start a blog?

Here’s some courses to get you started: Start A Travel Blog

or Start A Blogging Business.

Want or need help with your blog or website? I’ve found inexpensive help on Fiverr.

Check out our Etsy shop, GrandmotherstrunkUS

January 11, 2024 0 comment

Family Fun Family Recipes Nostalgia

Cranberry Dessert or Anytime Recipes My Family and Friends Love

by Deb C December 4, 2023

Cranberry Dessert or Anytime Recipes My Family and Friends Love

Another thing about being 50-plus is building up a library of favorite recipes, many with memories attached. Here are two cranberry dessert or anytime recipes with memories that my family and friends love. The first one is a simple recipe for cranberry squares. The second is a tube cake great as a morning or anytime coffee cake or dessert.

Both of them get rave reviews and requests for the recipe.

Note: While we tend to associate cranberries with fall through the end of the year, I make these goodies throughout the year. No one has ever suggested that I stick to the colder months of the year to make them.

Cranberry (Nuts optional) Squares

This first recipe is great for dessert or anytime and one my family and friends just love.

This is a different kind of “family” recipe. It’s not a recipe that was handed down. But it is associated with family history.

When my husband and I attended Lamaze classes prior to our first born son, each couple was asked to bring a snack to share during the break. One expectant mother brought in cranberry squares that we especially loved.

When I asked her for the recipe, she said, I make them so often, I can write it out right now for you. She then pulled out an envelope and wrote down the ingredients and recipe. I tweaked it just a bit.

I still have the envelope and the various batter marks and splash marks bear testament to its popularity. I think of our son and his earliest years every time I make them.

This recipe calls for a 9×12 pan and is a great easy one for when you need to make cookies or bars for a gathering.

Cranberry (Nut) Squares: A Dessert or Anytime Recipe My Family and Friends Love (And yours will too)

PREP:

PREHEAT OVEN TO 325 DEGREES
GREASE A 9″ X 13″ PAN

INGREDIENTS:

1 CUP (8 ozs) BUTTER , SOFTENED
2 EGGS
1 TSP VANILLA

Mix, then add:

1 ½ CUPS FLOUR
1 ½ CUPS SUGAR
1 TSP BAKING POWDER

BLEND IN:

2 CUPS WHOLE CRANBERRIES (PICKED OVER AND WASHED)
1 CUP CHOPPED NUTS – WALNUT OR SLIVERED ALMONDS (OPTIONAL) As a variation, put some aside to sprinkle on top.

THEN:

POUR AND THEN SMOOTH BATTER IN GREASED 13”X9” PAN
BAKE IN PRE-HEATED OVEN at 325 DEGREES FOR 55 MINUTES
COOL 2 HOURS BEFORE CUTTING INTO SQUARES OR BARS

Cooling is important. If you don’t wait, the cutting can be messy, as my sister-in-law once reported.

Glazed Cranberry Almond Tube Cake: A Dessert or Anytime Recipe My Family and Friends Love (And yours will too)

This second recipe is great for dessert, coffee break, or anytime and one my family and friends also love and rave about.

This recipe was also one that I came by due to people bringing in snacks to a group. This time, the group was gathering to hand-address holiday cards for older alumni of Framingham State University. It’s been a tradition and an opportunity for alums to gather, gossip, and prepare hundreds of cards. The treats that they bring to share are always delicious, but this one was a stand-out. I had to have the recipe and every time I make it, it gets rave reviews.

This past family Thanksgiving, even a male family member later texted me: “Not that it was a competition, but you won dessert. Loved the cranberry cake.”

His wife later texted me: “The cranberry almond cake was the belle of the ball yesterday….It was quite the hit.”

NOTE: There are some fantastic pie and dessert bakers in this family. I didn’t have any almonds and just used about a 1/4 cup of chopped walnuts. And, the cake didn’t rise the way it should and buried the cranberry sauce which is supposed to stay on top.

It always comes out a little differently every time I make it. So, don’t be discouraged if it doesn’t rise as much as you think it should. It is always delicious, no matter what.

The photo isn’t quite the result, but you get the idea. I wish I had taken a photo. I’ll try to remember and then add it to this post.

PREP:

PREHEAT OVEN TO 350 DEGREES

TOAST 1/2 CUP SLICED ALMONDS (SPREAD IN A PAN AND BAKE AT 350 DEGREES FOR 8 – 10 MINUTES)

GREASE A TUBE PAN (Can use a bundt-style pan with modifications)

INGREDIENTS:

1/2 CUP (4 ozs.) BUTTER , SOFTENED
1 CUP GRANULATED SUGAR

Mix until smooth, then beat in:

2 LARGE EGGS

Then add and beat in:

1 CUP (8 OZS.) BUTTERMILK OR YOGURT (LOW-FAT O.K.
1 TEASPOON ALMOND EXTRACT

Then beat in until blended:

1 TEASPOON BAKING POWDER
1 TEASPOON BAKING SODA
1/2 TEASPOON SALT
2 CUPS ALL-PURPOSE FLOUR

Spoon 1/2 of batter into greased tube pan.

Then spread evenly on top of batter:
1/2 CAN WHOLE BERRY CRANBERRY SAUCE

Then spread remaining batter over cranberry sauce and top with:
1/2 CAN WHOLE BERRY CRANBERRY SAUCE

and sprinkle over the sauce:
1/2 CUP TOASTED SLICED OR SLIVERED ALMONDS

(For Bundt-like pan, start with almonds, then sauce and batter layers.)

BAKE AT 350 DEGREES FOR 55 MINUTES – TENT WITH FOIL THE LAST 15 MINUTES
SHARP KNIFE OR TOOTHPICK SHOULD COME OUT CLEAN AND TOP SPRING BACK WHEN PRESSED IF DONE.
COOL CAKE FOR 5 MINUTES. THEN, TURN IT OUT OF PAN* AND PLACE ON RACK FOR GLAZING.
PLACE PARCHMENT, FOIL, OR PAPER UNDER RACK TO CATCH DRIPPING GLAZE.

* TRY USING DENTAL FLOSS OR THIN SHARP KNIFE TO GENTLY RELEASE CAKE FROM BOTTOM OF PAN BEFORE TURNING.

GLAZE:

3/4 CUP (3 OZS.) CONFECTIONARY SUGAR
2 TABLESPOONS MILK
1/2 TEASPOON ALMOND EXTRACT

Mix above ingredients and drizzle over the warm cake. For added eye appeal, add cut up bits of dried cranberry over the glaze. I arranged then in a circle around the middle opening. You could also sprinkle colored sugar crystals or jimmies.
To avoid crumbling, let cake cool before serving.

Do you have some favorite recipes that have stories and memories attached? Add your comments below.
___________________________________________________________

Check out our Etsy shop for fun gift ideas and vintage images to download: GrandmotherstrunkUS

Want to learn how to start a blog?

Here’s some courses to get you started: Start A Travel Blog

or Start A Blogging Business.

Want or need help with your blog or website? I’ve found inexpensive help on Fiverr.

December 4, 2023 0 comment

Budget-minded Discounts Family Fun Nostalgia Quirky Finds

7 Reasons Why I Love Consignment Shops and not just for saving money

by Deb C February 28, 2023

Why I love consignment shops

There are so many reasons to love consignment shops and shopping, but here I am narrowing them down.

Shopping at consignment stores is more than about saving money. It’s also a fun and entertaining hobby. Each consignment shop has its own personality, partly from the owners, the policies and pricing, the ambience, the consignors, and the shoppers. Shopping at consignment shops is a hobby for people of all ages, incomes, and lifestyles.

I’ve listed the reasons I love shopping at consignment shops. They are in no particular order.

Reason 1 why I love consignment shops: Free entertainment

Not only do consignment shops save you money, but they also offer free and fun entertainment. I may not buy anything during a visit, but I am usually entertained, one way or another.

Most of the shops I go to have a great play list of background music, which, for me, is mostly classic rock music.

Sometimes the people, either in front or behind the counter, are the entertainment. As you are browsing, you may hear the most intriguing stories, or gossip. Then there are times I feel sorry for the owner or employee. They get trapped by a customer who pours out their health, marital, or other woes.

Once at my favorite shop, Classic Consignments, a long-time fixture in Sudbury, Mass. I overheard a a particularly annoying browser. She let everyone within hearing know, that she had been living in Asia for years. She kept insisting that the hand-painted Japanese china was priced too low for the work that was put into it, not knowing the going rate. She treated the employees as if they were volunteers in a charity thrift shop who didn’t know what they were doing. She was the ignorant one.

Sometimes I meet someone I haven’t seen in years. A few times I discovered someone who remembers the same shops I used to go to when I was growing up. We have several pleasant moments mentally traveling down memory lane.

Then there’s the times when there are items that stun you, amuse you, or educate you. You may not want to take them home, but they make for an interesting visit.

Reason 2 why I love consignment shops: Education

This relates to Reason #1: Consignment shops can be educational, as your world is expanded by the eclectic nature of the items on display. You may get glimpses into high end tastes and designs you might never otherwise experience. The closest I chose to get to new high-end merchandise is through the windows in the mall. At some consignment shops I can handle lots of items up close.

The sheer variety of items I never knew existed and can study up close is incredible. Some shops which lean towards antiques and collectibles, can resemble mini-museums.

Reason 3 why I love consignment shops: Adding to your collection at reasonable prices

At some shops, you have a chance to add to your collection at a significant savings, rather than buying at an antique mall or shop, or on eBay. The owner of the consignment shop doesn’t wait for the top dollar and most shops have an automatic markdown system, so you may find some great items at reasonable prices. I buy vintage photos and ephemera and many times I have picked they up after their final markdown.

Reason 4 why I love consignment shops: Finding old favorites and repurposing

If a shop has a blend of eras, you may find items of character and design that are better made of better materials that suit your taste and living space. And, you can find items to repaint, refinish, and repurpose. You might also find a replacement for something that you loved and wore out. I am searching for some kitchenware that were my favorites. I don’t like the design or feel of some of the utensils available today.

Reason 5 why I love consignment shops: Better goods at lower prices

I touched on this before, but it’s not just saving money, it’s also having opportunities to buy higher quality gently used items for the same or less than those of much lower quality. We recently bought a piece of furniture at a well-known online retailer as a requested gift. We assembled it in the recipient’s home. Some components didn’t line up as well as they should have. And it was smaller than expected. It was definitely not designed for long term use. I would have rather put the money into a slightly used solid wood, better constructed item with some character.

I pick up charming English porcelain plates and pressed and lead glass dishes and serving ware for use when we have company. I also use vintage damask cloth napkins and tablecloths when entertaining.

Reason 6 why I love consignment shops: Learning the value of heirlooms

Consignment shops can also give you an idea of the value, or not, of your family heirlooms, or your household goods. You might think, or hear “Oh, my grandmother had one of these!”

But, as a sign that I have seen in some vintage and collectible shops says: “The only one who’s interested in what your grandmother had, was your grandfather.”

While a lot of “yesterdays” items are interesting or durable, or usable, like old Federal bureaus, only a fraction have any significant value. I owned an antique and collectibles consignment shop for 12 years. A memorable consignor insisted on discussing each item he consigned often saying “Now, this is really old,” expecting a high price just because it was old.

Well, it is true that sadirons like the one he had are old. But, unless the example is unusual in some way, and even then, they are common and not particularly sought-after.

Every winter I see vintage wooden sleds like Flexible Flyers, at consignment shops like Classic Consignments, but I also notice that they either don’t sell, or are coming to the end of their consignment period without any takers. They just give the shop a seasonal ambience.

So, either I see something my mother or grandmother had, and get a sense of the going prices, or if I try to sell something they owned, the market tells me what is valuable, and what isn’t.

Reason 7 why I love consignment shops: Make money

While it may not be, buy low, sell high somewhere else, sometimes I have made money doing just that. Either I bought an item at a consignment shop and sold it at another place, or online on eBay or Etsy, or bought an item at a yard sale and sold it on consignment.

Sometimes, it’s just easier to have someone else do the pricing and selling for you. I bought a group of vintage Easter postcards at a thrift shop. I scanned them and created a digital product and sell the images for download on Etsy. I also created a book for scrapbooking, junk journaling, and crafting that you can buy here on Amazon. Then, I consigned them in groups four to eight and most of them sold. I made back my investment and more just from consigning them. However, I do have a lot of sweat equity invested in the scanning, layout, and design of the digital and physical products sold on Etsy and Amazon.

Above are the main reasons I love consignment shops. They offer so much, as far as entertainment and education and they don’t cost you anything until you buy something.

Why do you love consignment shops? Leave your comments below.

Also visit my other blog posts about collectibles and consignment shops:

Clear your clutter and cash in with consignment shops

The British Royal Family: Memorabilia feeds collectibles mania

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Fun Things to Do in Greenfield Mass.

by Deb C September 30, 2022

There’s many fun things to do in Greenfield, Mass.

We had never been or heard of Greenfield, Massachusetts. It’s out near Amherst, Mass, off of Rt. 91, along the Mohawk Trail. When we looked for things to do one weekend, we came across “Greenfield Vintage Days.” We unexpectedly found many fun things to do in the city of Greenfield, Mass.

Greenfield Vintage Days, Greenfield, Mass.

Greenfield Vintage Days event was on a Friday, Saturday, and Sunday. We went on Saturday as there were the most things to do. The core of the event, and where we started exploring Greenfield, was in Court Square. Free parking was available in nearby city lots. Several of the shops lining Main Street had Sidewalk Sales. It’s easy to navigate across streets with pedestrian traffic signals. We hopped a free Trolley Ride to visit historic and vintage places around the city.

The Farmer’s Market is a fun thing to do in Greenfield, Mass.

The Farmer’s Market boasted several stalls of freshly harvested local produce as well as crafters. The Taco Food Truck attracted a long line of customers. During Greenfield’s Vintage Days, a group of vintage tractors attracted a lot of interest. There was also a blacksmith demonstrating his craft over an open flame. Members of the Historical Commission were in period costume.

Finding art on Main Street is a fun thing to do in Downtown Greenfield, Mass.

The Downtown is alive with color: sidewalks, parking meters, the sides of buildings are all brightened by vivid paintings of all kinds. Even parking meters pop with color.

Chairs in the park offer a bright rainbow of seats:

Then there’s the sidewalks. Here’s one with a bee theme:

The sides of buildings with wide alleys beckon the eyes with their murals:

A Fun thing to do in Greenfield, Mass. is to “bee” on the lookout for bees in painting and sculpture

Why bees? Greenfield was the home of Lorenzo Langstroth, pastor of the Second Congregational Church during the mid-1800s, who is known worldwide as the “father of modern beekeeping.”

Reverend Langstroth was the inventor of a revolutionary moveable-frame beehive, patented in 1852. The hive made it easier to inspect the hive and harvest honey. He wrote the first American manual on honeybees and beekeeping. First published in 1853, and reprinted multiple times since, it’s still considered the “Beekeeper’s Bible.”

We discovered that a Langstroth Bee Fest is celebrated downtown with a parade, children’s activities, bee-related displays and talks, and more fun. In 2021, six large bee sculptures painted by local artists were installed around the downtown area and were unveiled during the Bee Fest. More have been added since then.

Here’s the Celtic Bee:

There are other bee-related features, such as the cross-walk shown earlier in this post, as well as paintings like this incorporating bees:

Browsing vintage, secondhand, and thrift shops is another fun thing to do in Greenfield, Mass.

There are several vintage, secondhand, and thrift shops within walking distance of each other in Greenfield, Massachusetts. Many are on Main St. Each of them has their own personality. During Greenfield Vintage Days, many had sidewalk sales and specials. They all had unique personalities and plenty to browse. One, John Doe, Jr. specializes in vintage vinyl records.

Down on Hope Street, which is off Main Street, you will find a Salvation Army Thrift Store and Innovintage, a woman-owned vintage and artisan collective. Innovintage is located in an old brick mill complex. The vendors offer a variety of vintage and antique furniture and furnishings, vintage accessories, upcycled wedding decor, and handmade items. Unfortunately, the trolley tour we were on only allowed us time for a brief peek at the goodies. We thought the prices we saw on vintage wooden items along the deck were very reasonably priced. There was plenty of parking and the day we were there there were also several vendors set up in the parking lot.

The Historical Society in Greenfield, Mass. is a fun place to stop in

The Greenfield Historical Society is housed in a well-kept Victorian building. The displays are well thought out with lots of informative signage. For a small museum, it packed in a lot of items. I’ve owned a vintage shop, bought and sold antiques and collectibles for decades , attended auctions since I was eight, and I saw things there I’ve never seen elsewhere.

This self-propelled wheel chair, circa 1890, is unique in my experience.

One room is devoted to children’s items and pastimes. They are invited to sit at a wooden desk and look at stereoscope slides.

Here’s a few other displays at the Historical Society in Greenfield:

The Museum of Our Industrial Heritage is another fun thing to visit in Greenfield, Mass.

The Museum is rather small, tucked into one part of an old mill building, but makes good use of the space with family friendly displays.

Call ahead as it’s open Summer Saturday afternoons and by appointment. Visit industrialhistory.org for information and group programs. The museum has a library of past technology that researchers may request access to.

Dining out is a fun thing to do in Greenfield, Mass.

Some restaurants in Greenfield, Mass. may have bee or honey-themed art or specialties. The ones we saw popped with personality and pride.

There’s Bonnie B’s Restaurant:

It was hard not to stop in at the colorful Rise Above Bakery and Cafe, but we wanted to be on time for the Trolley Tour:

We did end up having bread from the Rise Above Bakery when we had a late lunch at The People’s Pint, a family-friendly brewpub, on a side street in Downtown Greenfield.

They offered sidewalk seating, as well as indoor booths. Sorry that the sun was so bright that day, it affected my outdoor photo. Here’s some photos of the interior, food, and a beer flight:

They brew their own beer, bake their own desserts, and source from local farmers and suppliers. They are very environmentally conscious, not using disposable plastic, minimal paper goods, composting or recycling everything they can. The brewery grain is fed to pigs and goats in Gill, Mass.

So many fun things to see and do, you’ll “bee” sure to have a fun time in Greenfield, Mass.

Know before you go:

We went when there was a special event and many venues were open for it that have limited hours. We also went in early fall on a bright warm day. The Trolley Tour was a special part of the event and not regularly offered. Greenfield Vintage Days was a brand-new event and it will probably return with many new features. For those who like old fire department equipment, Greenfield is planning on a museum and raising money for it.

Check the City of Greenfield’s website for any events. Also be sure to check this website: Visit Greenfield, MA.

Plan ahead by checking to see if the places mentioned in this post are indeed open, or schedule an appointment, if they offer that option.

There are many more things to see and do than we knew about, or had time for. OH, and the Franklin County Fairgrounds are nearby, so you could coordinate a trip to the fair and the city. See also Wikipedia for more information about Greenfield, Mass.

Also check the local newspaper, the Greenfield Recorder, for information about special events and venues.

If you go…please let me know and leave a comment below.

Want to learn how to start a blog?

Here’s some courses to get you started: Start A Travel Blog

or Start A Blogging Business.

Keeping Track of Craft Beers

While many use an app for tracking their brewery visits, physical journaling is very popular, too. Consider: Keeping Up with Craft Beers: A Journal for Your Tasting Adventures, for yourself or for a gift for a friend. You can keep more detailed records of where you went and what beer you enjoyed. You can list up to 100 beers, as well as list breweries and brew pubs you liked as well as beer festivals.

September 30, 2022 0 comment