Estate Sales: the Good, the Bad, and the Ugly

Every weekend here in Salt Lake City, there are usually at least a few estate sales being held. An estate sale, not to be confused with a yard or garage sale usually involves selling off the entire contents of someone's home. In most cases an elderly person has been moved into a nursing home or is deceased and the family hires an outfit like, in this case A1 Estates Services to conduct a sale.

This is Patrick, he's a little camera shy and prefers to be photographed in his working mode.

John is always very helpful and friendly and usually gives me a good deal because my pile of stuff is so enourmous.

Since it's the final day of the sale, everything is half off. It's slim pickens but I scored this lovely wardrobe with mirrored doors for only $130. It even came with a skeleton key! (The Good)

As you can see, there is a little bit of everything. (The Bad)

Is there a luau in your future? Then you're in luck because this darling mumu is only $2. (The Ugly)

Estate sales are open to the public and are usually listed in the classified section of the newspaper.

The shed is usually a big draw for me but watch out for spiders!

I have found that the coffe can filled with old screws is standard issue in every old dude's garage.

And there's never a shortage of lovely seasonal decor in the craft room.

I'm certain this jar or "Borer Killer" is long since expired but at .50 who could resist?

It's all over but the shouting folks. After you've made your final purchase the helpful fellows with A1 will even carry your items to your vehicle for you! You can contact A1 Estate Services at 801.467-9787 or visit their website at:
http://a1-estateservices.com/.

So here is my final haul. The total bill for all these treasures, including the wardrobe came to a mere $250. So you can see, if you are a true bargain girl like myself, it pays to shop the estate sale on the final day. And if you are wondering about the toilet, the "Homer Laughlin" stamp on the back was the selling point for me.

Love, Kelly

Antique Store Redemption

Normally I don't purchase items from antique stores for my shop just because they are too expensive. However, after visiting every thrift store in Pocatello and coming up empty-handed I was desperate to fill my van. I found this sweet little shop in downtown Pocatello and was pleasantly surprised.

"Her Alibi" is a very charming spot with an impressive and reasonably priced assortment of merchandise.

Her Alibi

211 S 4th Ave

Pocatello, ID

208.233.6797

http://heralibi.com/

They even have a "Bargain Shed" out back where I spotted this adorable cupboard.

The sweet little lady who helped me was very nice and because my pile was so huge she gave me a discount.

Woops! I guess I wasn't supposed to look in that closet. Maybe they have these magazines on hand to keep the husbands occupied while their wives shop. What a great idea...I should try this in my shop. Just kidding, I am after all in Utah and the biddies would be outraged.

Love, Kelly

Deja Vu...All Over Again

Many of my customers will remember my last ordeal with road construction at my old location on 33rd South last year. We endured 10 long months of road work. If you've travelled down 9th East lately you are aware of the latest round of chaos that UDOT is putting us through.

When customers come in, they often ask if I am receiving "compensation" during the construction. Are they under the impression that small businesses get free money when the road gets torn up? Last time I checked, the only businesses getting bailed out would include large financial institutions and car manufacturers. My only "compensation" comes in the form of customers who buy stuff in my store. You see where this is leading... If you love our shop then we need your support to stay in business.

Getting to our store is easier than you think. The best route to take is 21st South turning North onto Windsor (840) East. That way, you can avoid the mess on 9th all together.

We are also toying with the concept of changing our hours of operation to adjust to the construction. We'd like your feedback in that regard. Thanks again for your support. Hope to see you soon.

Love, Kelly

Sigh...

Sometimes, after you've had a bad day all that can make you feel better is to sit on the couch and pet your tiny dog. Normally I try to keep my blog posts peppy and upbeat but it's not happening for me today. You see, UDOT has decided to tear the paving to shreds on the street in front of my shop. It's all part of big project that will continue into October. Instead of the happy ring of the cash register, I have heard nothing but the lonely sounds of crickets. It's amazing how people will avoid driving down a street that is being worked on.

So, customers of mine....if you are reading this sad and pathetic post, take mercy on a poor lonely shop owner and drive down 9th East to visit my little store. I miss you and would love to see you.

Love, Kelly

Dissapointment at the Thrift Store

Let me begin this post by stating that my intention here is not to malign the charitable organizations of the Goodwill and Deseret Industries thrift stores. They are both fine organizations that do much to aid the needy and serve the community. I am merely an observer, passing on to you my visual account of the second hand shopping experience. If it's true that the local thrift store is a reflection of the demographics of the community then I am a little concerned about the good citizens of Pocatello, Idaho. First of all, this sexy belly dancing outfit is a girl's size 8. You be the judge.

The people of Pocatello must be a very "outdoorsy" group. The apparel inventory was well stocked with various and sundry camo gear. They even featured fishing lure in the jewelry department. It's important to look your best when reeling in that "big one".

Not only is this set of blinky light lawn snowmen tacky but overpriced as well; the set was priced at $40!
No record collection is complete without this rockin' assortment of "Twenty Original Hits" although I believe the sassy gal in the daisy dukes is the selling point.

My next stop is the Deseret Industries. As you know, it's my favorite shopping destination in Utah but let's see what the Idaho "Boutique" has to offer.



YIKES!

I do believe this is by far the most hideous sofa I have ever laid eyes on. Although I have to admit it was rather comfy. It would be the perfect spot to enjoy a Big Mac and Fries while watching the latest episode of Jerry Springer.








I remember these little ceramic do-it-yourself projects from my days spent at the craft emporium at BYU. Now you know how old I am.

This lovely silk flower topiary is actually "Sold". A bargain at $20.




Alas. I was unable to find any goods for my shop but this little shopping trip was rather entertaining. Hope I didn't step on any toes.

Love, Kelly