United Estates of Madge (Puppet Edition)

DAY 3 of "The Puppet Show" we went to a few estate sales. Not as many large items as last week, but still picked up some gems!

At our first stop, MP found this lovely hand painted little dish to house her jewels in next to her sink...

We also witnessed one of the strangest things I have EVER seen, and believe me, I have seen some strange ass things in my life.

This house had one of those really creepy, dungeon-esque, someone's going to kidnap you and hold you hostage, basements. I'm talking, MP and I held hands as we walked down the stairs it was that atrocious.

They had book shelf after book shelf of old books, boxes, just a LOT of stray, aimless, and, moldy stuff. We were rounding the corner when we see this old man, (who looks like he may or may not have rolled out of bed and came straight to the sale his hair was going every direction--he might have just been loco) walking a little strange.

Well, my eyes slowly scanned down his side and realized why he was walking strange, HOLY SHIT THAT MAN IS HOLDING A GUN. And when I say gun, I'm not talking about a shiny new "Saturday-night special," I'm talking a dusty pistol perhaps used in the take down of a concentration camp and could perhaps misfire at any second. The crazy people running this estate sale are selling old ass pistols in creepy basements.

I could only think of the convo I would have to have MP's mum, "Soo...I took your daughter to this estate sale this weekend, and while we were digging for stuff in this disturbing basement, some octogenarian shot and killed your daughter with a piece of weaponry from Nazi occupied Paris, accidentally."

I quickly grab for MP, who has now realized the crazy old man is indeed packing heat, and we haul ass outa there.

So...we're traveling down the highway; jamming out to some GaGa en route to our second sale, when all of a sudden we are at a complete stand still. WTF? It's Saturday afternoon, this should NOT be happening--traffic should be flowing seamlessly. Simultaneously, MP and I look to our left and gasp, this is the sight that we saw...

Holy shit, a brush fire!!! Those orange spikes just above the metal guard rail are flames, folks. Being on point, MP grabbed the camera and got some good footage.

It was a hot, smoldering mess. On a side note, this was the second fire that we had seen in less than 24 hours. On our way back from the aquarium there was an apartment fire. Birzarro, no?

At the next sale MP snagged a fab necklace.

It already looks great in her jewelry dish...

Total spent by MP: $3.00

The last house we went to seemed as if someone had not opened a window or a door in at least three years. The dust was thick, the smell of mold overpowering, and the crazies running the show were in full effect. I however scored some awesome finds.

The first is this quirky little dish...

If you just asked yourself, "Is that a naked cupid taking a picture of a couple with the phrase good luck above them?" The anwer is yes, you are correct! Quirky, right? Not sure what I'm going to do with it yet, but I'm sure some scathingly brilliant idea will come to me.

Right before we passed out due to dust inhaliation, I caught a glimpse of these plates. I'm in the middle of reading Gone With the Wind, and I couldn't help thinking that I thought these ladies pictured were Scarlet and Miss Melly.

I plan on using the small plates for coasters. Here's an example on my bedside table with a good read (and a fabulous eye mask!)

During one of the first sales, I snagged this polka dotted scarf.

Total spend by Madge: $4.00

Minus the series of bizarro events, it was a great shopping day!!

The Life Aquatic - Day 2

With more than eight million gallons of water, the Georgia Aquarium is the world's largest aquarium. And you guessed it, this is where we ventured to on the second day of "The Puppet Show."

It was an amazing experience. Aquariums to me are just a really peaecful place, I love swimming and being in the water. We were hoping that we would not encounter any large crowds and have the place pretty much to ourselves, however we failed to recognize it was mid-winter break for some schools = the place was PACKED.

MP and the extraordinarily large map. "We are here."

They had tons of interactive sites, a few where you could touch some creatures...

Here's Madge, about to touch the barb on a sting ray. I apparently was so excited that I totally disregarded the seriousness of that situation and also the "two finger touch" rule.

Didn't forget any rules this time!

Keith Johnson, the buyer-at-large for Anthropologie talks about how he is constantly looking for inspiration in everyday life. The aquarium was an excellent opportunity to soak in lots of inspiration. The colors and textures were amazing, and both MP and I commented on how it is interesting that fashion mimics nature.

The Georgia Aquarium is also the only institution (outside of Asia) to host whale sharks, which are the largest fish in the sea. The tanks they are housed in are awesome. It's really something to round a corner and see this...

There is a spectacular dome that you travel through, that actually has a people mover, so you can really observe all the fish in the tank-- instead of multitasking-- walking, looking, and run the risk of smashing into the lady with the three kids.

We were so lucky to be able to witness feeding time of the whale sharks. It was a sight to hold. A brave soul is dragged across the tank in a little raft and literally "spoon feeds" chum into these giant creatures' mouths.

We're enthralled!

After the aquarium, we took a leisurely stroll across Centennial Park and over to the CNN Center for some lunch. MP has never experienced the fabulousness of Chick-Fil-A before...needless to say, she's hooked.

And here I am with my fiesty friend...

I wouldn't mess with either of these blondes.

"The Puppet Show" Night 1 and Day 1

My absolutely fabulous cousin, MP aka Puppettina flew south to visit this weekend. She and I are VERY similar, we did a lot of growing up together, so we ultimately had a great time!

Her flight was canceled leaving the mitten state on Wednesday because of a torrential snow storm (thankfully she was able to catch another flight) and didn't arrive until super late. Whenever we have to pick either one up at the airport we usually have some sort of sign that we hold. This time, I really out did myself...

Complete with glitter, stars, and swirls. I'm certain the people around me thought I was off my rocker since I was holding a glittered sign that said "Puppet." Little do they know...

And if you are wondering, why in the world would one refer to their cousin as a puppet? It's a long story, however it involves an "honesty puppet" that would come out when you needed to tell the other something (sometimes not the best news) with an understanding there would be no hard feeling afterwards.

Day 1: Friends, for all of you that know what I mean when I refer to "The Mart," congratulations--you now know what my vision of heaven truly is. For those of you that don't, it is a wholesale marektplace a.k.a. you go to a store, you see an item you like, most likely a buyer came to The Mart and purchased it.

I am a very privileged gal and have a job that allows me access to this fabulously wonderful place! And in return, I am able to share this gem with my friends and fam.

MP and I share the same obsession with monograms. We both love our initals..and it was even discussed that if they opprotunity arose to purchase monogrammed undies--we both totally would. And one of my favorite stores that I do business with engraves monograms on jewelry. Needless to say, 2 of our 4 hours of shopping were spent in this store. Here's a very small highlight of what I got...

This is actually a sea shell...perfect for spring/summer!

I also have another obsession, the Holy Communion of Saints. I recently have started collecting holy medals. So I was able to pick up a vintage looking charm bracelet to house my new acquired collection.

MP got a bunch of great engraved jewelry too, including a pair of earrings which I could kick myself that I didn't get! We ended our day by driving over an hour outside of town to hit up some outlets, seriously drove about 50 miles south of the Tennessee border (my fault completely, I thought it was the closest Coach outlet). Pointless trip where nothing was purchased, but a great drive into the "quasi" Georgia Mountains.

Makeup in the Office

Today was one of those mornings where staying tucked under my warm blankies sounded much more appealing than initating the road to beauty. Hence and therefore...

Beauty station at work...
and I was able to accomplish everything on my things to do list today! Love productivity!

Major, Major, Major

I had a major freak-out last night. And when I say major, I mean off the Richter scales. I was made aware of some information that may or may not directly affect me, and to quote my grandfather..."I flew off the handle." Lots of crazy, incoherent word combinations were spewing from my mouth; including but not limited to the following phrases: "Shit for brains." and "Fucktard." And then--the emotional breakdown hit. The uncontrollable, can't breathe, caught in a case of emotion, sobbing.

 It was lovely.

I am under a great deal of stress at work. My boss, whom I had a MAJOR falling out with, has quit. YAY! Ding, dong the witch is dead! Reality has now set in, my high has worn off and word on the street is they want to upgrade her position from her the original title. The question then arises: Am I qualified? I know I am, I have re-invented my current assignment (which, for the record, directly affects hundreds of people each day).

I've really done a kick ass job if I do say so myself. But will they promote from within? Will they think that I haven't had enough management experience?

My counterpart/friendly rival has stated for months that she would never take this position if it became available--"too much work." Well home girl has now reneged on her pervious statement. She's now making herself shine like the northern star, responding to emails with smiley faces and shit.

1.) Where was this motivation 6 months ago and 2.) Who responds with smiley faces in a corporate setting to the SVP of Marketing and Operations?

I am so lucky that I highlight my hair and take anti-anxiety medication because I would totally be confused for Doc Brown from Back to the Future at the current moment... "Great Scott Marty--the flux capacitor is malfunctioning!"

I leave you with James Blunt's take on Where Is My Mind? A.) Great song. B.) His voice = high five amazing! C.) He's real easy on the eyes. D.) Who can't relate to this tune? Enjoy!

The United Estates of Madge

When I was younger, my mum used to take me to estate sales--and I can clearly remember hating them with a passion. I always thought they were kind of creep-tastic. Here you are rummaging through some dead persons belongings; suitcases, vases, jewelry, clothes and the occasional underpants, most of which smelled like old people, were dusty/dirty, and really-- whomever is running said estate sale you're attempting to sell a candle that has been burnt for about 3 hours? Not a 12 year olds cup o' tea.

Like many other things I previously resented my mother for, I now thank her for. Any lucky Madge, I now live in a metropolitan city that has SEVERAL estate sales per weekend. Today, my BCF (Best Colleague Forever) and I ventured to a few sales. The first sale was a bust. The second, an encrusted gem!! It was outside the of the city, and for the record: quite difficult to get to. However difficult it may have been, all items were at least 70% off.
I heart Ikea. I heart cheap, Euro-trash furniture. And for the past few months, we have used what is supposed to be a bookshelf from Ikea to house our china, barware, etc. It was different, it looked nice, but it wasn't what I had in mind.

I have this philosophy when shopping, "If you hesitate--you must wait." And may I recommend giving it a spin--it truly works. I went from room to room at the estate sale, saw tons of furniture I liked, but I hesitated. And then...before my eyes laid the most vintage, 1950's, cocktails after work, Mad Men, dresses with belts and crinoline, smoking cigarettes and not knowing they would kill you, buffet I have seen. It was exactly what I pictured. The price $250. The guy who was running the show came over and noticed I had a few other small items in my hand, we discussed prices, I added that I really liked the mirror and lamp that were displayed with the buffet and ladies and gentlemen...$140 later I walked out with the following: 1 buffet, 1 mirror, 1 lamp, 1 tea pot, 1 black patent leather belt, 1 paisley scarf, and 1 frame full of of vintage photos.

The buffet is perfect, thanks to BCF's hubby for being my personal moving service. It houses all my china, barware, plater, AND flatware. Great storage space.

And storage, A-freaking-mazing...

The mirror is great too--it's HUGE! I told my hubby that I it reminded me of something that may belong in Versailes.

The lamp is pretty awesome, it has quite a bit of flare. Really interesting detail...in dire need of a new lamp shade  though.

And here are the tea pot, belt, and scarf...

And to me, these are worth it all. These were the first items I picked up. Immediately I was enthralled. Who are these people, where is Sugars, was this the previous owner of the estate, and who is that man she is looking ever so longingly at? I like to imagine that it was her secret love on a secret vacation to someplace fabulous where they ate at a bakery Anything Goes at Sugars.

All these photos were compiled into a frame, hence the reason for the discoloration. The frame had really seen better days, decades even, so I carefully started removing the back of it and this was what I found behind all the "secret rendezvous photos."

I was really hoping it was going to be an envelope of $100's--but I'll take some quasi spooky kids dressed to the nines!

Greatest Man That Ever Lived

I have previously stated my LOVE for the Olympics. I had a very special place in my heart for the Beijing Olympics, the opening ceremonies (which were hands down the best I have seen) just happened to take place on my birthday, aka Beijing Birthday Bash. So when golden boy, Michael Phelps, rocked the world by demolishing all pervious Olympic medal standards, I developed a crush.

Reasons for crush:

1. Attended the University of Michigan.Go Blue!
2. I personally love swimming, To Quote Little Edie "I only cared about three things: the Catholic Church, swimming, and dancing.."
3. The guy's pretty funny, did you see SNL? Two words, Fancy Pants.
4. Male swimmers always have rockin' hot bods.

Sure sure, Perez Hilton said he would be more attractive with a paper bag over his head. However, I can look past the jaw bones that could possibly be that of a child's. In my book-- he may be the closest thing to a super hero or bionic man, cue Weezer - Greatest Man That Ever Lived. I believe this song may have been written with M. Phelps in mind.

While perusing some websites trying to find some info on the Tiger Woods press conference, I came across an article with the headline of "Phelps Announcement London 2012." I nearly passed out with excitement...and then I saw the picture...

(Image courtesy of Yahoo)

WTF Phelps' stylist? Were they attempting an Austin Powers' look? The shirt and tie = nice, clean cut look. The jacket = epic fail. Is it made of flame retardant material? Is it made of a safety blanket? What up with the mini neck roll? Is that supposed to protect him from whip lash in case he crashes while remaining seated in that motionless bobseld? And who's the dude behind him?

You may ask, "What is M. Phelps waving at?" The answer, friends, his career--the London Olympics will be his last. His reasoning, he doesn't want to swim "after the age of 30." Lame-O.

I'm sad to announce, my crush-o-meter of Phelps has dropped several points after reading this article. Maybe, just maybe, the utterly awkward stationary bobsled photo is a precursor. M. Phelp's next challenge...bobsledding??

Baby You Can Drive My Car...

Would Phyliss Nefler approve of this Girl Scout Cookie marketing ploy? I think not. Where's Robin Leach and the cookie fashion show?  (Troop Beverly Hills for those who have no idea what I'm speaking of) I would be very hesitant to purchase cookies from a van who's missing rear side quarter pannel is duct taped together.

Items of Notice

I had a brief doctors appointment this afternoon, and then proceeded to take the remainder of the day off--hey, if you work hard 24/7, an individual is entitled to a day of rest. My husband and I ventured to one of the most amazingly overwhelming retail establishments--amazing in the realm of so much merchandise for every room/budget/style. You may have her of this store--Ikea?? Ahhh, manufactured Swedish goodness at affordable prices!




A coffee table was on our agenda, and after a brief lunch stop (Got to love a good bowl of penne pasta for $1.99), we went in search of the bin/aisle number for said coffee table. Mind you, we have had our eye on this table for a prolonged time period, say like July. We head to the aisle and bin and...none, zip, zero, zilch. Mr.MTM believes that they surely should have some in stock somewhere within the mammoth building. So I stay put, hanging out in the table section while he goes in search of a sales associate to assist us. I'm just sitting there taking in my surroundings when my eyes begin to wander up the large warehouse shelves, higher and higher. I was blown away with what I saw...



These boxes/pallets were precariously perched on the edges of these shelves. Never once have I heard of a poor Ikea patron being squashed by an Ektorp sofa or an Expedite book shelf. But still...

My second item of notice for today has to deal with the Winter Olympics. My undying love for the Olympics dates back to the days of Baby Madge. Tonight I have been transfixed with men's curling...you know, the sport where you throw a mini boulder down the ice and your team mates use brooms to "brush" the ice in effort to accelerate the mini boulders inertia. Let me tell you, I was born and raised in Michigan, I had a few friends who "curled" on teams; but I have never watched a match, and to my surprise--it was exciting! A close match that almost left me to biting my nails, there was so much strategy involved (USA v SUI). And furthermore, those guys can do an amazing swan stretch--Namaste Yoga would be so proud!

Fun facts I learned:

1. All the rocks propelled down the ice are from Scotland. Why, you may ask? Apparently my Scottish ancestors are thought to have created the game.

2. There's a lot of yelling, A LOT--very similar to that of a crappy high school wrestling match.

3. The Swedes are cr-azy for c-urling. Literally saw one man in the audience with a cowbell around his neck that could be the Liberty Bell's baby.

Unfortunately team USA lost in double secret overtime. But as for my preconceived notion of that all curlers were another variation of individuals who attend Star Wars Con--2 of Team USA's fellas changed this stereotype, pretty attractive--even when they are practically doing the splits while chucking a rock down a lane of ice! You can tune in and watch all the excitement tomorrow at 9 AM, the US v Denmark..I may actually DVR it!