I hate to admit it but I love to shop. And even when the trend in my family and among friends is to stop the gift giving mania, I still operate as if I am on a diligent search for the elusive perfect gift.
This week I went to Clifton Forge and was smitten with the local Arts and Crafts Center. Some of you have asked, “What did you buy?”
Art Deco Shiny Pin for Dor
Well, I kept things under some control of course and bought the perfect gift of a stunning bejeweled pin, but wound up giving it to myself!
Then I saw the perfect gift (just for love) for Bill – a Four Way Screwdriver that sounds pretty mundane but the handle is of handcarved wood, and the tool actually does convert to four different size “heads” (I think that’s what you call them). Bill seemed to like it a lot and it now has an honored place in a kitchen drawer to be used for those I-need-a-Phillipshead-moments.
Four Way Screwdriver With a Handcarved Wood Handle
Art Glass Nail File in a Velvet Pouch
Finally, even though this last item was not made locally, I knew it would bring me great joy. You see, I had bought a tiny purse size version of the Art Glass Nail File some time ago and loved it. Always regretted not getting the standard size. These files are produced in the famous Bohemian glass region of the Czech Republic and should last a lifetime with proper care (don’t drop it on a tile floor!). They are also supposed to be good for your nails too and are beautiful to look at (the files, not my nails).
I’m ready to go back to the Alleghany Highlands Arts and Crafts Center in Clifton Forge.
It is the perfect place for dreaming, shopping, buying, and maybe finding the perfect gift.
Virginia Views 
Oh how I would have loved to have you come into my booth back when I was doing art and crafts shows. Actually, I am the same when shopping. I am absolutely certain that there is at least one wonderful thing in every store on earth. And what fun to try to find it. http://judydykstrabrown.com/2015/09/12/unclear-agenda/
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I could tell when I met you in cyberspace that you are a very talented person and I know I would surely have loved your shows.
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Sounds like a wonderful place, and your purchases are beautiful :).
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Sounds like fun shopping!
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Now you’re talking. This is just the sort of shopping spree I love Dora. You would have loved visiting my little antique shop that I had in Worcestershire England. Some of the curiosities which came my way were a sight for sore eyes and I hated to have to part with them, but of course I had to sell them in order to run a business of course. However there was the odd one or two pieces which I could not part with. Like your pin by the way, and the four way screwdriver with the nice wooden handle was a nice gift for bill, did he like it ?
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These days I don’t buy much but I still enjoy shopping. I find it relaxing and fun. As I tell my husband on some days that need an uplifting activity, “I’m going to fondle merchandise!” Looks like you have some lovely finds.
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That’s the kind of shopping I enjoy, too — nifty little treats for me or others. 🙂 MJ
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I wish I coud have visited your antique shop in England Rita. I can only imagine the treasures to be found there. Yes, Bill did love the screwdriver with the wooden handle. It is not only beautiful for what it is, but certainly utilitarian and handy to have nearby. 🙂
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Finding three great things in a one day, one place shopping effort was amazing.
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I do love looking or window shopping as we used to call it. And finding a useful nifty thing inside is always a bonus. 🙂
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That would be a trifecta for me too!
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I think you would have really enjoyed it Dianna. Wish you had been with us.
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Thanks my friend. I love the applause for my humble purchases and yep, the place was a great surprise. 🙂
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Gorgeous pin, Dor, I see why you fell for it. And with the screwdriver for Bill, why not have the practical be beautiful? Same with the nail file. 😉 I’m a big fan of Czech glass, too. The colors seem especially vibrant, don’t they?
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I do love the Czech glass Eliza, and in fact, I read that it’s good for travelling as it reflects different colors you are wearing. 🙂
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Life is pretty good-all-in-all isn’t it…You found some great treasures.
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Excellent choices, Dor! Money well spent. 🙂 Thanks for sharing.
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I would certainly agree Charlie, that life is pretty darned good! I hope yours is too.
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Oooo, you got some great buys! I’ve never seen those nail files before — love it!
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The nail files seem to be around. I got my first one at a gift store in Sedona, Arizona, and this one here in Virginia.
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Looks like you hit the jackpot at that place!.
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It was so much fun to find unique things….
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I love arts and craft markets, those are my favourite places to shop. You could become one of those professional shoppers. Your gifts look lovely! 🌺
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🙂 Thanks happyhugger! You are a gem.
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