Few things in life are as horrifying as items from your childhood now passing as “vintage.” Case in point: these Valentine’s Day cards I received in Grade 5. The cards look like they’re from another century! Which, when I think about it, they are.
Read MoreAfter a four-year hiatus, 2023 marked the return of my annual Caker Christmas party. It’s been a tradition – for better or worse – for about 25 years. I invite my Italian in-laws and friends to bring a mangiacake dish.
Read MoreScotland has gifted the world with many treasures, including the Loch Ness Monster, stuffed sheep stomach, and the voice of Sheena Easton. Scotland has also given the world shortbread.
Read MoreThroughout November, I visit as many holiday bazaars as possible. They’re always an adventure and, more often than not, I meet at least one new friend named Jean.
Read MoreApple head dolls don’t get the recognition they deserve. Each one is unique, they’re cheap to make, and no craft better represents the ravages of time.
Read MoreAs a kid, I don’t know what terrified me more at Halloween time: Getting too close to an open flame in my polyester costume, crossing the street at night while wearing a plastic mask with two tiny slits for eyeholes, or peering into strangers’ houses and seeing their unfortunate home decor choices.
Read MoreEvery year, people make a big deal about all the freaky food available at the Canadian National Exhibition. Fruit Loops-crusted hot dogs. Tater Tots with whipped cream. Chocolate-dipped pickles rolled in feta, then covered with caramel sauce and sauerkraut. .
Read MoreOf all the traditional holiday foods, few are hated more than fruitcake. But what did fruitcake ever do to warrant such animosity? I mean, it’s still cake, after all. Personally, I believe fruitcake deserves more respect.
Read MoreWell, it wasn’t quite the bazaar bonanza I was hoping for this week. I’ve had some problems finding bazaar listings online. Someone needs to start a website devoted to bazaar listings. And that someone is me. I’ll make my millions yet
Read MoreThis weekend, I drove three hours to a bazaar. But I had good reason. My hometown church was having its annual bazaar.
Read MoreIt’s been a long two years, but I’m happy to say that bazaars are back, baby! I can’t tell you the joy I felt the other day, stepping into my first church basement since COVID, and smelling that percolated coffee.
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