Let's go shopping in London!

I'm back in the states after two great weeks of vacation. Ah, England, I love it there. I could have stayed forever. Bought a country estate, some horses, a butler... Dreaming.

But since we couldn't buy a house and title, we just bought lots and lots of goodies to bring home :)

I did tons of antique shopping. Things I search and search for online and in the states are a dime a dozen across the pond. My favorite place to shop is Portobello Market. I can't tell you how long I've been looking for a nice silver toast rack - well, I was absolutely tripping over them there. Kicking them out of my way, there were so many!

I saw some of the most beautiful 18th century antiques, as well. I had the privilege of opening up a couple exquisite etui cases and pulling out all the bits. There were fashion plates everywhere and thimbles and sewing cases and gorgeous lace! Be still my beating heart.

I have so much to share. I think I'll start with a little Saturday trip to Portobello Road.

Yawn! Good morning.
Look out the window.

Grab your umbrella and lock the door.

Mmm breakfast. Tea please!

Catch a cab and lets go.

Let's start walking. It's early and it's already crowded!

Look at the gold work on this lovely
18th century bag!

A 1770's tortoiseshell etui.  You can see the
1760's chonoiserie etui just behind.
More on these and the bag later!

Lunchtime! 

Let's share a ploughman's.
Glass of wine please and don't forget the chips!

Yikes...

This decanter case locks. You don't want the footmen
getting into the good scotch do you?!

It has a little scoop!

OMG OMG OMG antique whitework!

And lace!

It looks brand new! I want to buy some!

Ooo 18th century metal lace!

Day's over. The stalls are closing.
Let's grab a cab and head back.

Independence Day Parade

Happy Independence Day all! I hope everyone has some yummy barbecues and parties to look forward to. And fireworks! Gosh, I love fireworks. 

I'm planning on relaxing the rest of the day because I was up early this morning getting into my 1776 best. Well maybe not my best, but I thought this chintz was red, white, blue and very appropriate.  

I walked with the Southern Nevada Living History Association in a "timeline," ranging from Ancient Rome to WWII. Marina, from Enlightened Age, and I represented the 18th century.

My dress is pulled up through the pockets, to keep it
off the ground. This way of rucking up the robe is called
"retrousse dans les poches," and is not to be confused
with "a la polonaise," which uses tapes.

My red American Duchess Kensingtons. I totally love them. So comfy!

And after the parade was over we popped over to the park and took some cute pictures. I'll have to take better pictures of my accessories and show them in detail. Maybe tomorrow...