UPDATED to add: there is a new site dedicated to quotes from blogs called Blogtations and, oddly enough-- one of my bits of flotsam has been caught and pasted to the wall there, so to speak. If you like quotes and blogs-- perhaps you will want to check it out.

And, I am getting up at 3 am tomorrow to begin the long trek out West to Artfest! My friend Mindy is going with me and I'm feeling like I always do before a trip-- tired, somewhat anxious, guilty about leaving T to manage on his own for 7 full days, and missing the dogs already . . in a word: absurd.

Hello? Maybe at some point in my life I'll actually simply revel in a vacation?! Anyway-- just wanted to let you know in case I am scarce from this blog for a while.

ITEMS IN THE PERMANENT COLLECTION
OF THE HOMESTEAD QUEEN MUSEUM

1. A once-lovely white jacquard, French terrycloth robe by Oscar de la Renta with silk cord detailing on the cuffs and long shawl collar.

Provenance: Saks 5th Avenue

Remarks: Note the wear and tear across the front panels where one too many armloads of firewood have left brown furrows. Other distinctive markings include three separate areas that have been singed by open flame. Multiple coffee stains reflect a dazed, carelessness that can only attributed to the cumulative effects of 150 inches of snow over a period of four months. Yellowing from failed attempts at bleaching it back to its once pure alabaster glory indicate both the absence of a decent dry cleaner and the pathetic optimism of its owner. Its very existence speaks to the blind, hopeless effort to try and sustain a civilized dress code and a blatant refusal to concede to the harsh demands of a rural life.

2. Two pairs of stylish over-the-knee socks, both intended to be worn on city streets with a flippy skirt and a great deal of attitude.

Provenance: Paris boutique

Remarks: As the owner had no opportunity to wear street shoes or flippy skirts, the socks languished in the back of a drawer for many a year before they were re-purposed as hiking socks. Turns out, their extra length was well-suited to being worn under leggings when Sorel boots would be covered by elastic bottom skateboarding pants. Their ability to hold tight and not slide down during long, daily treks up the side of the mountain as other socks were wont to do-- saved the fragile sanity of the owner. Of course, they do show some tiny teeth marks from dogs who would get so excited at the sight of them (knowing their appearance meant a big walk) as well as dog hair that defies removal.

3. A small make-up bag containing several new or barely used products.

Provenance: Fresh

Remarks: A peculiarly sad little assortment of beauty products-- all in a neutral palette which tells us it that was clearly bought with the intention of creating a "natural" look. And yet, the packaging has not even been removed from the foundation and the pale eye shadow looks as if it has barely been stroked. It can be surmised from this as well as the unused blow dryer (note: this piece is now housed in a private collection) that the owner either had no cause to make an effort to look presentable or, more dire indeed, had given up all hope of ever looking remotely put-together again.

Please proceed now, at your own risk*, to the next room where you will find the footwear and outerwear on display. (For your convenience, Kleenex has been provided in boxes to the right of each display).

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*Girls under the age of 16 must be accompanied by an adult.

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