"That's how it all starts...and then one day you look around at all your stuff and before you know it you're opening up an antique store."

That's the response from the lady ringing me up today, when I said to her "I'm going to have to sneak this one in the house" (referring to the vintage suitcase I just couldn't resist) --as if I needed another suitcase. I already have two. But this one was unique. It has three small red stripes down the middle. I even opened it, hoping it would be ripped and moldy...that way I could just walk away. But, no. It's the really nice kind that has a fold-able hanger rack inside and couldn't be in better shape! (not that I'm ever going to use the fold-able hanger rack)

So why would I have to sneak it in the house? Let me explain.  I'm in Love with Vintage. I love collecting and searching...and the thrill of finding a good deal.  I love chippy paint and the occasional rust. I buy things not only to decorate our apartment with, but also to include in my crafts. And although our apartment needs nothing more (and I can assure you I don't need anymore crafting supplies!!) I still go thrifting and every now and then I'll hit up the antique stores. You never know what you're going to miss!! I'm always coming home with something that I just couldn't pass up. And then I get home and have to convince Joe why I just couldn't pass it up: "it was a steal" or "it's one of a kind" or "I could sell this one day and double my money"

Oh sweet Joe and how he puts up with me! He just gives me that look of disbelief and asks "WHERE. ARE. WE. GOING. TO. PUT. THAT!?!  WE DON'T HAVE ROOM FOR ANYTHING ELSE!" (well, duh! we live in an apartment silly Joe! my antiques will look lovely in a House someday :)  )  So, back to sneaking my purchase into the house apartment... there are things that Joe will never notice if I don't say anything. You know, the small things that fit nicely on a shelf. Well, then there are bigger things, such as a Huge trunk, or a birdcage, and well, a suitcase. (oh, and a vintage silver Christmas tree that has been in the back of my car since my mom was in town!!...but that's a whole other post) I'm really hoping he doesn't notice my new purchase. Because, the real reason...he said he would break up with me if our home started to look like Hoarders. lol. And not that it does!!! Trust me, there's an order to my madness! (at least I like to think so) ...and what's another suitcase, right? ~maybe someday I can sell it in my antique store :)

 ....nah, it's too cute to resell!