Aprons For Cooking and Entertaining: A Resource Page

Welcome to our resource page for aprons where we will review a few resources to help you find the apron that you are looking for. Whether you are looking for one for cooking or for entertaining, you are sure to find a link here to an apron that suits you perfectly. You'll find everything from pretty aprons to practical aprons; from adult aprons for both men and women to children's aprons; and, of course, fun holiday-themed aprons. You'll even find a link to some great resources for making your own apron. I know you are going to love all these aprons!

(Find the practical and sturdy apron shown above on Amazon by clicking right here.)

SIX APRON-THEMED REASONS YOU'RE GOING TO LOVE THIS PAGE 

On this page you will find links to pages dedicated to the following apron topics:

Aprons for Everyday

Celebrity Aprons

How to Make an Apron

Children's Aprons

Aprons for Holidays

Aprons for Men

And More!

APRONS FOR EVERYDAY

Crazy About Cupcakes? Tie on a Cupcake Apron!
If you love cupcakes, you will love this cupcake-themed aprons.

Old-Fashioned Cross Over Apron

Looking for an apron that you can slip on over your head rather than messing with apron ties? Check out this crossover apron.

Cobbler Aprons

If you prefer an apron that resembles a lightweight vest with pockets, you should consider a cobbler apron. 

CELEBRITY APRONS

Julia Child's Apron

There are many styles of aprons but, if you want to follow the lead of Julia Child, the famous American chef, cooking teacher, author, and television personality, you should check out her preferred apron.

HOW TO MAKE AN APRON

How to Make an Apron: A Resource Page

If you are looking for resources to make an apron, you'll enjoy looking through the ideas and links on this page. 

Ellyn Geisel's Apron Book Reviewed

The Apron Book: Making, Wearing, and Sharing a Bit of Cloth and Comfort by EllynAnne Geisel, is a guide to old and new aprons. Learn more here.

Discover all of the apron pattern books available on Amazon.

There is no shortage of books to give you ideas for making your own apron whatever your preferred style.

CHILDREN'S APRONS

Eric Carle's My Apron, A Children's Book Review
If your child loves or would love to have an apron just like dad or mom, he or she will enjoy this children's picture book, My Apron, by Eric Carle.

APRONS FOR HOLIDAYS

Gingerbread Man Aprons

Do you love gingerbread, gingerbread men and Christmas? If you do, you are going to love these fun gingerbread aprons

Cooking For The Holidays? Tie On A Christmas Apron!

Christmas aprons are a recipe for holiday fun! If you spend a lot of time in the kitchen at Christmastime, you should definitely own a Christmas apron!

A Christmas Cookie Apron

Tucked in on this page dedicated to making a cookie-themed gift set, you will find a fun Christmas cookie-themed apron.

Do Your Haunting In A Halloween Apron
Looking for a Halloween apron? You might find just what you are looking for here on this page.

APRONS FOR MEN

The Best Sizzlin' Hot Barbecue Aprons

Grilling something on the BBQ? Throw on one of these fun aprons first!

Real Men Don't Wear Aprons, Do They?
This page is dedicated to the issue of whether or not real men wear aprons and whether or not you wear one? Features a fun selection of fun men's aprons! 

Five Great Grandpa Aprons

For the barbecue master in your life who is also a grandpa!

Funny Grill Master Aprons

The grill master needs a host of important pieces of equipment but maybe most importantly, a funny apron...

A Batman-Themed Apron
If you have a Batman fan, he is sure to love this Batman-themed apron.

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Well that's it. Our page of apron resources. Strap one on the next time you are in the kitchen, the art studio, the workshop...

You never know

what aprons I might have 

in store for you!

Brenda
Treasures By Brenda

Quick Link:

Check out the aprons in my eBay store.

Note: The author may receive a commission from purchases made using links found in this article. “As an Amazon Associate, Ebay (EPN) and/or Esty (Awin) Affiliate, I (we) earn from qualifying purchases.”

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A Valentine's Day Music Collection

If you are looking for romantic Valentine's Day music, look no further. Take inspiration from this review of a few Valentine's Day music ideas. It includes a couple of my favorite soundtracks that are available on compact disc and a a couple of others that sound fantastic. I have arranged my picks by release date. Enjoy.

FRENCH KISS SOUNDTRACK (1995)

French Kiss is a great movie that also has a beautiful soundtrack with light pop music. The movie a very popular romantic comedy starring Meg Ryan and Kevin Kline. It features a variety of artists that you will recognize, including Van Morrison, Ella Fitzgerald and Zucchero. Find your copy of the French Kiss soundtrack here on Amazon.

CHOCOLATE SOUNDTRACK (2000)    

I will admit, I am biased because I thoroughly enjoyed the movie Chocolat but, regardless of whether or not you have seen the movie, if you appreciate instrumental music, you will find this soundtrack beautiful. The movie starred Juliette Binoche and Johnny Depp and the CD transports you to the setting of the movie, small town France. It is a perfect backdrop for your Valentine's Day dinner.  Released in 2001, it contains about 40 minutes of perfectly romantic music. Find your copy of the Chocolat soundtrack here on Amazon.

DISNEY'S FAIRY TALE WEDDINGS (2005)

Another instrumental collection, people who love Disney's love stories will enjoy this compilation. It includes songs from Beauty and the Beast, Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs, Lady and the Tramp and numerous other Disney shows. Whether you listen to this on a CD or through Amazon's streaming service, would be great background music for Valentine's Day. Find Disney's Fairy Tale Weddings here on Amazon.

MARTINA MCBRIDE'S MY HEART (2005)

Martina McBride’s CD My Heart was released by Hallmark for Valentine’s Day in 2005. It features eight romantic songs that were picked by McBride herself. Some are her own songs; others, covers. This CD is shorter than some but it was quite successful upon its release. McBride sounds lovely in this compilation, which is good for Valentine’s Day and any other romantic occasion even a wedding. If you want to add it to your collection note that I found a better selection of this CD from sellers on eBay. Look for Martina McBride's My Heart here on eBay.

VALENTINE'S DAY SOUNDTRACK (2010)

Released slightly more recently in 2010, the soundtrack to the Valentine's Day movie is another great choice. The movie included a wide variety of popular actors including Julia Roberts, Jamie Foxx and Anne Hathaway. The CD includes recordings from a wide variety of artists who you will recognize including the likes of Taylor Swift, Willie Nelson, Jewel, Amy Winehouse, Nat King Cole and Maroon 5. Find your copy of the Valentine's Day soundtrack here on Amazon.

NOW THAT'S WHAT I CALL A LOVE SONG (2023)

Definitely the newest in this series, this set was released in February of 2023 from the people who have presented more than 110 CDs in the NOW Music series. This compilation is packed with new and old love songs by artists you know including but not limited to the likes of Ed Sheeran, Fugees, Sam Smith, Celine Dion, Whitney Houston, Elton John, Sting, Billy Joel, Norah Jones, Seal, Lana Del Ray, Kacey Musgraves, Nelly Furtado, Miley Cyrus, Dua Lipa, Ariana Grande, Kylie Minogue, Little Mix, Justin Bieber, John Mayer, Cold Play, Pretenders, Robbie Williams and Christina Aguilera. I think this one would make great listening for anyone but would be especially fun for a mixed generation gathering since it presents something for everyone. Find your copy of Now That's What I Call A Love Song here on Amazon. If you want a mix of music that includes today's artists, this is the compilation for you.

Do you have any favorite Valentine's Day music?

Happy Valentine's Day!

Brenda

Treasures By Brenda

QUICK LINKS:

Discover the movie CHOCOLAT.

Love chocolate and France? You will enjoy the movie Chocolat!

Discover the French Kiss movie and soundtrack.

Yes, I love French Kiss. Learn more here.

Note: The author may receive a commission from purchases made using links found in this article. “As an Amazon Associate, Ebay (EPN) and/or Esty (Awin) Affiliate, I (we) earn from qualifying purchases.”

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What Sold on eBay? The Best eBay Sales of 2022

Next up in my What Sold on eBay series, is a review of the five best sales that I had last year, 2022. The word best has many definitions so I will make it clear that these are my five largest dollar value sales. If you are curious about what is valuable on eBay and what you might sell or even if you are just curious as to what people are selling, you will enjoy my review of 2022.

GEBRUDER BING GERMAN TEDDY BEAR

My largest and definitely most interesting sale of the year was of an antique teddy bear that I listed in April and, after generating quite a lot of interest, sold in June. It was a German bear manufactured in the 1920s by Gebruder Bing. Even though she was much-beloved and showing it the fact that she is antique made her sought after and valuable despite her condition. click here to see the Bing bears available on eBay now.  

If you are interested in reading more about my bear, click here.

BOUCHER PEACOCK BROOCH AND EARRINGS SET

This beautiful Boucher set was my next highest priced sale and was worth more because it was a set rather than individual pieces and, of course, because it was in perfect condition. I sold it for a friend who thinks that her mother would have been quite surprised at the value of her vintage costume jewelry set.  Sought after, it is available from time to time from sellers on eBay. Click here for a Boucher Peacock set for yourself on eBay.

MONTREAL OLYMPICS POSTER

I sold quite a few Montreal Olympic-themed posters over the course of 2022. The most valuable one showed the Canadian beaver with rainbow stripes across the middle of his body. It was worth the most because it is one of the rarer posters from the series and because it was large in size. If you are in the market for such a poster, do beware that there are two sizes. The 33-inch poster is much harder to find and, as a matter of fact, when I looked on eBay today, there were no large ones available with the beaver on it. If it matters to you, be aware also of reproductions and of new posters.

Click here to see the Montreal Olympics posters available today on eBay. 

LEGO NINJAGO MOVIE SET 70632

Next up was the Ninjago Lego movie set number 70632 called Quake Mech. With 1,202 pieces, it is a large set that is now retired and harder but not impossible to find. Fans do have to pay more for new, sealed sets, that are no longer in production. 

Click here to see what Lego's Ninjago Set 70632 is selling for on eBay. 

If you are really curious about Lego value, check out this page of Rare and Hard to Find Lego sets.

BERG CAT TILE

This final sale was the most eye opening one for me. This pretty cat-themed wall tile was manufactured by Berg in Danmark or Denmark in a lovely glossy blue color. The cat versions of Berg tiles seem to fetch a higher price and I think that this tile was especially popular because of the current craze for all things Mid-Century Modern (MCM) and, of course, because of the popularity of cats. 

Click here to check out the Berg Danmark tiles on eBay but note that today, I can see none!

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I hope you enjoyed this peek into the best of 2022 in my corner of eBay.  If you would like to see more, visit my store, Treasures By Brenda, by clicking right here. 

You never know

what I might have

in store for you!

Brenda 

QUICK LINKS: 

What Sold on eBay Fourth Edition.

This edition included Steiff, movies, bugs, pewter, Play-doh and the royal family.

What Sold on eBay First Edition.

This edition included quilts, bowls, chimney sweeps and cheese boards.

Find more eBay stories from my blog, Treasures By Brenda.

Note: The author may receive a commission from purchases made using links found in this article. “As an Amazon Associate, Ebay (EPN) and/or Esty (Awin) Affiliate, I (we) earn from qualifying purchases.”

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WestJet Christmas Miracles

For today’s post, I thought I would rework an old post and offer up a bit of Christmas cheer in the form of a review of an event that a Canadian airline sponsored in 2013. Here's my story. 

We were at a Christmas party when someone said, "You have to see this." They turned on the television and pulled up a video on YouTube. We all watched with amazement as the passengers from two planes scanned their boarding passes and visited with Santa Claus. What happened next, was truly unexpected. 

TWAS THE NIGHT BEFORE CHRISTMAS REAL TIME GIVING (2013)

See for yourself what happened in this video called WestJet Christmas Miracle: Real Time Giving or Twas the Night Before Christmas.

Quite a video, isn't it? It must have been totally unbelievable at first. The passengers on that plane will never forget that flight with WestJet and nor will I. Not that I was there, of course. I was a participant via the video, just like you will be if you watch now.

SANTA'S BLOOPERS (2013)

And don't miss the Santa's Bloopers video. I love a good blooper reel!

FLASH MOB (2012)

But it turns out that the Christmas 2013 was not the first time Westjet 'performed' for Christmas for in 2012, the employees performed as a flash mob at the Calgary airport:

With over 50 million views of that 2013 video, Westjet definitely scored a public relations coup with their Santa Claus project 'Twas A Night Before Christmas and they made a pretty memorable day for all of the passengers involved. According to one newsreel that I read at the time, Westjet was planning for the next year right away.

MIRACLE MILES (2022)

Fast forward now with me to 2022 when I discover that WestJet has another Christmas Miracle video, this one called Christmas: Miracle Miles.

A quick peek on YouTube shows that WestJet may have done a similar video throughout the intervening years. I won't share them all here with you but I will smile at the kindness displayed in these videos.

 
Merry Christmas!

Brenda

MORE CHRISTMAS READING:

Hallmark Christmas Movies

How to Make a Christmas Cookie Gift Set

How to Create a Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer Gift Set

Note: The author may receive a commission from purchases made using links found in this article. “As an Amazon Associate, Ebay (EPN) and/or Esty (Awin) Affiliate, I (we) earn from qualifying purchases.”

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The Best Lego Gift Ideas That Aren't Building Sets

A GIFT GUIDE FULL OF FUN 'N FABULOUS LEGO MERCHANDISE

My children clamored for Lego sets when they were growing up and, somewhere along the line, they turned me into a Lego enthusiast. Each year at Christmas my sons picked a special set that they dreamed of owning and, of course, hoped that Santa Claus would leave under the Christmas tree. They generally picked reasonable sets and discovered them under the Christmas tree in the morning.

Now that my children are grown up, Lego still appeals to them and Santa still likes to leave them a small Lego set at Christmastime. However, Lego gifts can even make an appearance on Valentine's Day, at Easter time or on a birthday and sometimes those gifts are Lego themed but not necessarily Lego sets. The popularity of Lego has ensured that there is plenty of merchandise to choose from so that gift giving is not limited to building sets though of course no Lego fan would ever say no to another Lego kit.

I have gathered on this page some of the best Lego-themed gift ideas that I could find in 2022. It was while looking for just such a gift that I decided to create this page. The "best" is used very loosely and is based solely on what appealed to me, partly by my sense of what my Lego lovers would love to own and partly by what appeals the most to me. I hope you find this list useful.

A BOOK - FANTASTIC: A LEGO ADVENTURE IN THE REAL WORLD

Within the pages of Penelope Arlon's Factastic: A LEGO Adventure in the Real World the reader will find real photographs with Lego figures and interesting facts and statistics about an eclectic variety of subjects including flying to Pluto, the invention of my favorite snack (the humble potato chip), the playing of the first video game and more. It is a fun, non-fiction Lego-themed book by Scholastic recommended for ages seven to eleven but, of course, of interest to anyone who loves the Lego brick. 

Find your copy of Factastic here on Amazon.

A CALENDAR - LEGO BRICK CALENDAR SET 40172

I am not in the least surprised that there is such a thing as a Lego calendar. This Lego Brick Calendar seems like a natural choice for someone who loves to play with Lego or who remembers fondly playing with Lego in his or her youth. The calendar is set 40172 and comes with everything you need to build the four blocks as well as a mini-figure and the display rack. It is a perfect gift for the year 2022 that will be equally useful for years to come. Personally, I would trade out the mini-figure for one that suits my interests more but that is no problem if your gift recipient owns a collection of Lego.

Find Lego's Calendar Set 40172 here, on Amazon.

A STORAGE UNIT - LEGO ICONIC RACK SYSTEM SET 5005875

This Transparent Blue LEGO Iconic Rack System (5005875) is not particularly big but it is perfectly designed for young builders having three drawers for him or her to sort and organize Lego bricks. The drawers are semi-transparent drawers and have baseplates to build on. The unit measures 14 inches tall by 12 inches wide by 13 inches deep.

I am not sure if this storage unit will save you from the pain of stepping on the Lego bricks of younger Lego fans but it will help them sort and organize their bricks and even the youngest will now have a home to put all of their Lego bricks away when they care to or when they are instructed to. Available in red as shown, in blue or in gray.

Click here to find this Transparent Lego Rack System on Amazon. 

A MOVIE - LEGO'S EXTRA AWESOME 2-FILM COLLECTION 

The Lego Movies were a huge hit with fans and the critics. This Extra Awesome set is one that your gift recipient should own. Whether or not he or she has already seen the movies, they'll likely watch them over and over again.  Click here to find The Lego Movie 2-Film Collection on Amazon. It is an extremely affordable gift idea.

A LUGGAGE TAG - BANANAS, HOT DOGS AND MORE, OH MY!

These Lego tags are fun, declaring, as they will, your recipient's love of Lego to one and all and I don't think you have to be a traveler to appreciate them. They could also be affixed to a backpack, purse or other bag, not just your suitcase. I have shared a couple of mini-figure food-themed tags but Lego has also produced tags in themes that include Star Wars, Batman, Ninjago and Batman. Find them all on Amazon by clicking right here. 

A T-SHIRT - CUSTOMIZABLE LEGO BRICK HEAD BY TEEZ 2 GO

I cannot think of a more practical or affordable gift idea for a Lego lover than a t-shirt like the ones shown above from Teez 2 Go on Etsy.  They are available in a host of colors, designs and sizes for men, women and children so that you can pick the one that you think is perfect for your Lego enthusiast.  You will find these t-shirts on Etsy by clicking right here. If the whole family loves Lego, why not dress them all in one of these? That would create a fabulous photo opportunity.

A LIMITED EDITION POSTER - TOM WHALEN'S THE LEGO MOVIE POSTER 

Tom Whalen's Lego Movie art poster makes a unique gift for your Lego fan that can take pride of place on his or her bedroom wall. Heck, don't limit it to the bedroom. It would be fabulous on a family room or play room wall or absolutely any wall at all. 

Whale is a deviant artist who has produced many movie-themed prints, including this limited edition The Lego Movie one, which was issued in a limited numbered run of 475. You can source it now on eBay from the original buyers who are now wanting to sell their copy of the fun print.  Find it on eBay by clicking right here.

A MINI-FIGURE - PERSONALIZED & BUILT IN YOUR LIKENESS

Finally, here is a truly unique Lego-themed gift idea. Brick Creative on Etsy creates personalized minifigures of you and/or your loved ones. They do them in many themes including but not limited to Christmas, Halloween, birthday, anniversary and thank you. You can select the number of figures, theme, etc. that suit you. See for yourself all of the choices in Brick Creative's store on Etsy by clicking right here. 

So there you have it, a page full of interesting and less usual Lego-themed gift ideas. Which items were your favorites?

See you 

at the Lego store!

Brenda

MORE READING:

New, retired, used & vintage Lego in my eBay store.

Lego fans will enjoy checking out the retired sets in my eBay store.

Two Great Books for Lego Fans.

True enthusiasts, young and old, will love perusing the pages of these great books.

Lego's Beatles' Yellow Submarine Set.
Know someone who loves Lego and the Beatles? This will be the set for them!

Lego's Carousel Set

Another adult set, perfect for those who are expert builders and love a beautiful carousel.

Lego's Typewriter Set

A throw-back to another time, adult fans who remember typewriters will enjoy this set.

Lego's Big Bang Theory Set

Perfect for fans of the iconic television program, the Big Bang.

Lego's Green Grocer Set

An adult-level set for those appreciate grocery stores or markets of the old-fashioned style.

Note: The author may receive a commission from purchases made using links found in this article. “As an Amazon Associate, Ebay (EPN) and/or Esty (Awin) Affiliate, I (we) earn from qualifying purchases.”

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Ken Follett's Never, A Book Review

In the past, I have read and thoroughly enjoyed a few historical Ken Follett novels. Never, however, as a modern war or political thriller about the possibility of nuclear disaster, was a definite departure for me.

Never is a saga about a crisis that could lead to a third world war. Follett himself says that the story was in part a result of his discovery that no one wanted the first world war. This book spans the globe from Africa’s Sahara Desert to China and the United States. It is 800 pages of story filled with a large cast and numerous story lines.

The Washington Post calls Never “a cautionary tale of global catastrophe.” Exactly. They also say that it is “credibly detailed and alarmingly plausible.” Disturbing? Yes, but I agree.

VIDEOS

The first video shown below is a short trailer for the book, illustrating the Defcon system and alluding to the suspenseful nature of this novel. The second video, called Behind the Scenes with Ken Follett, is more interesting, detailing how he came up with the idea for this book.

RATING

Readers on Goodreads gave Never four stars; readers on Amazon gave it four stars as well.

Many reader comments show that people enjoyed the book, as I did. The story was extremely well researched and detailed and the storylines were interesting.

Many also found the book a bit longer than they thought it might have been and a bit slow or hard to be absorbed by at first and I agree on both of those points. I was also disappointed with how the individual story lines were sorted out and with the ending.

The premise of this book is disturbing. That is, seeing how a nuclear war might be played out. Let us hope that we never know the truth.

Like other readers, I give the book four stars and recommend it for those who enjoy political thrillers and for those who have enjoyed Follett’s previous contemporary thrillers. You can find Never here on Amazon in whatever format you prefer be that Kindle, audiobook, hardcover, paperback or audio CD.

See you
at the book store!

MORE KEN FOLLETT:

Ken Follett's Century Trilogy Reviewed  

Note: The author may receive a commission from purchases made using links found in this article. “As an Amazon Associate, Ebay (EPN) and/or Esty (Awin) Affiliate, I (we) earn from qualifying purchases.”

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WHAT SOLD ON EBAY? FOURTH EDITION

Wondering what sold lately on eBay? Well, as always, the sales from my store have included an eclectic mix of new, used and vintage items. Welcome to the the fourth issue of my What Sold on eBay series. What follows are six items that sold from my store during the first two weeks of September, 2022. 

MY FAVORITE ITEM - A STEIFF SOCCER BALL

Favorites are always hard for me to pick but I liked this mohair Steiff soccer ball. It was manufactured by the famous German teddy bear company of the same name and was only one of a number of interesting Steiff pieces in my eBay store.  

See the rest of my Steiff collection on eBay by clicking here. There are no more balls but there are, as you might expect, a selection of teddy bears as well as a circus clown, an elephant, a camel, two egg cozies (yes, egg cozies) and even an adorable snowman. If you are looking for a small Steiff gift item perhaps to use as a stocking stuffer, I also have a number of felt Steiff elephant keychains. 

HIGHEST VALUE ITEM - A TORCHWOOD MINI-SERIES SET

Torchwood: The Complete Original UK Series was the highest priced item that sold in my store during this time period. This series was a popular British science fiction show that aired from 2006 to 2011. This boxed set was in excellent condition and complete. I never watched this program but now that I have handled and sold it, I will admit that I am curious about it. Have you seen it?

INTERNATIONAL SALE - A MINIATURE METAL BUG

The cost of international shipping from Canada means that I do not sell many items beyond Canada and the United States. It makes sense then that my one international sale during this time frame was for this small metal bug. I have sold small metal bugs before and as it turns out, people collect bugs. Would you entertain the idea of collecting bugs?

LOWEST VALUE ITEM - A SEAGULL PEWTER BOOKMARK

This bookmark, though a handsome piece, had been waiting for quite awhile for the right person to come along and buy it and so, the price was greatly reduced and it was very affordable. I do sell Seagull Pewter items fairly often, though most of them do not sell at this low price point. 

Seagull Pewter pieces are designed and handmade in Nova Scotia. The company started with just three employees in 1978 and now employs over 360 people. It makes a wide variety of products and is a popular tourist destination. Find all of my Seagull Pewter items on eBay right now by clicking right here. 

NEW ITEM - A DISNEY CARS PLAY-DOH SET

I sold a number of new items including this Disney Cars Lightning McQueen Play-Doh set. Someone, likely a little boy who loves the Disney movie Cars, will have hours of fun playing with this set. My boys would have loved it. Still might, actually. See all of my Play-Doh, including more of this fun set, on eBay by clicking right here.

OLDEST ITEM - A QUEEN ALEXANDRA 1902 MUG

Queen Alexandra was the daughter of Christian IX of Denmark. In 1863, she married Edward VII and throughout her life, she called Marlborough House in London, Sandringham House in Norfolk, Buckingham Palace in Westminster and Windsor Castle in Windsor home. 

This item was a small, antique mug with a fairly simple outside design and a portrait of Queen Alexandra on the inside.  It was not in perfect condition but it was 120 years old. Interesting that people collected royalty memorabilia even as early as the 1900s. 

While this mug has been sold, you can find more royal family items here in my store.

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I hope you enjoyed this peek into my world on eBay. Want to see more? Visit my store, Treasures By Brenda, by clicking right here.

Brenda

QUICK LINKS:

What Sold on eBay? First Edition
From baby quilt to dipping bowls and chimney sweep, discover what sold from my store one weekend in October.

What Sold on eBay? Second Edition
From fanny pack to wind-up toy to knife block, discover what sold from my store one weekend in November.

What Sold on eBay? Christmas Edition
From Christmas ornaments to mugs and toys, discover the items that sold as Christmas was approaching.

More eBay stories from Treasures By Brenda

Looking for more eBay related reading? Visit this link. 

Note: The author may receive a commission from purchases made using links found in this article. “As an Amazon Associate, Ebay (EPN) and/or Esty (Awin) Affiliate, I (we) earn from qualifying purchases.”

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What is a Coastal Grandmother?

I have just discovered the vibe, ‘Coastal Grandmother’. Let’s take a minute and review exactly what that vibe is all about. It’s not just a reference to a woman but it is also a feeling and a lifestyle that is currently enjoying favor and being celebrated on sites like Instagram and TikTok.

According to Tik Tok user Nicoleta (@lexnicoleta), the movement includes women young and old who “love Nancy Meyers' movies, coastal vibes, recipes and cooking, Ina Garten, cozy interiors and more.” She also says the movement is about taking time to enjoy life. About slowing down.

I had to look up Nancy Meyers' movies and it turns out that the list includes Private Benjamin (Goldie Hawn), Father of the Bride (Steve Martin, Diane Keaton), The Parent Trap (Dennis Quaid, Natasha Richardson), What Women Want (Mel Gibson, Helen Hunt), Something's Gotta Give (Jack Nicholson, Diane Keaton), The Holiday (Kate Winslet, Cameron Diaz), It's Complicated (Meryl Streep, Mel Gibson) and most recently, The Intern (Robert De Niro, Anne Hathaway). They are all very popular, fun movies geared toward women. I now know who Nancy Meyers is and can say that I love her movies even if I did not recognize the name of the American filmmaker. You can check out Nancy Meyers' movies here on Amazon. 

USA Today calls the style “classic and timeless”. You might be a Coastal Grandmother if you like Grace and Frankie’s (2015-2022) home style in the program of the same name, Diane Keaton’s style in Annie Hall (1977) and Meryl Streep’s home in Complicated (2009). I definitely love those styles though I cannot say that my home style is classic or timeless. My home is simply casual and comfortable but those are Coastal Grandmother feelings, too!

Glamour says the term applies to the “perennially summertime lifestyle of a beautiful older woman.” They say that she likes natural products and looking after herself. That she enjoys simple, quality things. That she loves wine and book clubs and life. I definitely love the ideas of an easy summertime lifestyle, of relaxing with a glass of wine and of going to my book club meetings!

Most interesting, I thought, was Glamour’s statement that the Coastal Grandmother prefers real life to life online and I will take that as a reminder to walk away from my computer and celebrate life everyday.

Anne Hathaway at 39 is much younger than you would think of as a grandmother but says that she loves the style and even shared a photo of herself online sporting comfortable khaki pants, shirt and a bucket hat. All were comfortable and all were in neutral colors. Two more great Coastal Grandmother characteristics.

On TikTok, Nicoleta expanded on the comments mentioned previously by saying that Coastal Grandmother “is the feeling that you get when you’re visiting your friend at the beach. A cozy, safe feeling.” I can’t imagine not loving that feeling.

In case you are wondering, no, you don’t have to be a grandmother nor do you have to live on the coast to be characterized as a Coastal Grandmother and yes, there is a Coastal Grandfather equivalent. Glamour cites Stanley Tucci as an example.

I like TheStyleEquation’s definition of the movement as shown here in this short video from TikTok:

@thestyleequation The latest trend, not just for grandmothers! #coastalgrandmother @Lex Nicoleta #lifestyle ♬ original sound - Jennifer Ebelhar

I illustrated the top of this page with a fun, printable graphic from Echowood Printables on Etsy. I love the elements that creator Logan has woven together to create her interpretation of this trend. Click here to see Logan's visual representation on Etsy.  Her print is an inexpensive way to add this trend to your home's decor.

You will also find some interesting, on trend Coastal Grandmother clothing and decor pieces here on Amazon.

Which elements of this lifestyle do you like? Are you a Coastal Grandmother in any or all ways? If you would like to learn and see more, just search for Coastal Grandmother on TikTok and Instagram.

Brenda
Treasures By Brenda

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Rick Mercer Talking to Canadians Book Review

Rick Mercer's autobiographical book appeared under many a Christmas tree in 2021. I myself gifted it to a number of family members after watching a program on which the Ottawa International Writers Festival featured Canadian journalist Linden MacIntyre interviewing Mercer and reviewing Mercer's life so far as depicted between the covers of this book. 

For those who might not know, Rick Mercer is a Canadian celebrity. He is a comedian who had great success on television on shows that included This Hour Has 22 Minutes, Made in Canada, Talking to Americans and his biggest success and the program with which my family was most familiar, the Rick Mercer Report. When he eventually ended the Rick Mercer Report after 15 seasons, a question arose. What was Rick Mercer going to do now? 

The answer? He went back to stand up comedy, performing to packed shows wherever he went. That is, until the pandemic arrived. 

CELEBRITY REVIEWS

Mercer had to pivot again and this time his pivot found him writing this book, Rick Mercer Talking to Canadians: A Memoir. For once, Mercer was talking about his own life instead of about the lives of others.  It is an interesting tale, telling the story of his development from that of an unsuccessful student to that of a very successful comedian. 

On Twitter, Canadian author Margaret Atwood, said that the book is a "funny, pitfall-strewn, no-holds-barred memoir from the ranting TV uproarist, edge-walker, envelope-pusher and pot-stirrer who once talked me (Atwood) into impersonating a goalie!" On the Rick Mercer Report, Mercer talked many people into doing things out of their comfort zone.

Policy Magazine called the book "alternately funny, moving and always heartfelt." Touché!

Jann Arden, another Canadian comedian and songwriter, endorsed the book when she said "I laughed so much reading this, I kept waking up my dog in bed. Rick is a determined writer - he never stops pulling you into his stories and he never stops looking for the punchlines in everyday life. He made me realize how funny ordinary things are, how funny and how incredibly interesting. It's heartfelt and honest and generous and edgy - just like Mercer himself. Read it! It's fabulous!" I agree.

My only quibble with the book is that it isn't finished but then again, Mercer isn't finished. Who knows what the next book will have to share.

WHO SHOULD READ RICK MERCER'S MEMOIR? 

For one, anyone who is familiar with Mercer's television programs and comedic abilities will love this book. If you know his work, you will particularly enjoy learning about his background. If you enjoy true stories and autobiographies you will likely enjoy this book. If you have a Canadian connection in particular with Newfoundland and Labrador, you will enjoy it. It is an easy to read, funny book and I do find funny books hard to come by.  They say that writing humor is difficult. Obviously, Rick Mercer does not have that problem. Apparently, the audiobook is particularly enjoyable because Mercer himself reads it. With the audiobook, you will not only 'hear' his way of speaking in the words on the written page but you will literally hear them. Find your copy Rick Mercer's Talking to Canadians of the book on Amazon here. 

See you

at the book store!

Brenda

Treasures By Brenda

MORE READING:

Order your copy of Rick Mercer's book on Amazon.

Emma Donoghue's The Pull of the Stars book reviewed.

Canada Reads Book List 2021.

Canada's Murdoch Murders Reviewed.

Books I Read in 2020: A List.

Note: The author may receive a commission from purchases made using links found in this article. “As an Amazon Associate, Ebay (EPN) and/or Esty (Awin) Affiliate, I (we) earn from qualifying purchases.”

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Stiff: The Curious Lives of Human Cadavers Book Review

Mary Roach's Stiff: The Curious Lives of Human Cadavers is not for everyone. This book, a non-fiction look into the uses of human cadavers past, present and future, was different than my typical read and will likely be for yours, too. Our book club reviewed it and for some, the subject matter was simply too uncomfortable during a difficult time or even at any time. For others, like myself, it was an interesting endeavor.

The official book description says that the book touches on morality, ethics and spirituality and it does but it is really a look at the science of the uses of the cadaver. With chapter titles like A Head is a Terrible Thing to Waste, Crimes of Anatomy and Life After Death you will learn about surgery performed on the dead, body snatching, human dissection and human decay. You will learn about how the human body has been used to test France's guillotines, how it has been a guest on NASA space shuttles, how it has helped uncover causes of airplane crashes, how it has improved automobile safety and, of course, much more.

On the back of the book, Entertainment Weekly calls Stiff  "gross, educational and unexpectedly sidesplitting." I agree. Mostly. This book is at times unnerving, always teaching and told with a great deal of humor though the subject matter keeps it from being exactly what I would call "unexpectedly sidesplitting. I guess it delivers the science in a slightly dark but humorous way.

Morbid Monday calls it a "one-stop book for everything you ever wanted to know - or never wanted to know - about dead bodies." Touché!  There is a lot to think about here. I did find the book tough going at times but I also found it very interesting. I knew nothing about the actual scientific process that allows doctors to transfer organs from a dead body to that of an organ recipient. Do you? If not, you should read this book. The introduction is quite funny, the first chapter is tough but tough it out and see if you find the overall subject interesting if perhaps also "gross."

I recommend this book if you are looking for something outside of your usual fare, if you want to expand your reading subject matter and if you are willing to push you way through some unpleasantness though of course, you could skip any chapters that really disturb you. Each chapter stands alone.

Will you donate your body to science? Should you? Definitely something to think about and Stiff will definitely leave you thinking. Not everyone in my book club read it or cared for it but some like myself did find it quite interesting. If you think you might be one of them, you can find your copy of Stiff here on Amazon.

See you

at the bookstore! 

Brenda 

More Book Reviews:

Five award-winning movie tie-in Kindle books.

A list of award winning movie-themed books for your Kindle.

The Story of Walt Disney World, a book review.

Visit 1970s Walt Disney World via this book of information, pictures and illustrations from the park.

What Makes Olga Run

The story of retiree who went looking for something active to do. Eventually she found track and field and went on to became a 90-something year old super star.

Steve Berry's The Amber Room

Visit St. Petersburg, Russia, via this action-packed Steve Berry book.

Bringing Nature Home

How you can sustain wildlife with native plants.

The Boy Between

A mother and son's journey from a world gone gray.

Note: The author may receive a commission from purchases made using links found in this article. “As an Amazon Associate, Ebay (EPN) and/or Esty (Awin) Affiliate, I (we) earn from qualifying purchases.”

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