R E S C R I P T E D

FOLLOW MY NEW BLOG - The Great Sell Off

2010-11-11T23:15:00.002-06:00

I want to personally thank all of you who have been faithful to remain as followers on my blog, Rescripted, even though I haven't posted in over a year. The great news is that we have a new blog that I would love for you to check out and follow:

The Great Sell Off

From the blog you can go to The Great Sell off website and read our story and get details on what we are doing. We had a soft kick-off yesterday, but will be in full swing by the week-end. I hope you'll join us in this adventure!

Recycling is actually a "recycled" idea

2009-04-22T09:49:00.007-05:00

Recycling is really nothing new. Settlers before us recycled out of the need for necessity. Nothing was wasted. When a chair seat became worn, the seat was replaced with other recycled materials on hand. It was good as new again. No need to toss out a chair that likely took weeks to make by hand, using primitive tools. Throughout the mid-century recycling sorta went by the wayside as consumer goods were readily available through mass production. Today, recycling is in "vogue" - though not necessarily out of the need of necessity but as a conscious effort to protect our environment.

While this group of chairs are valued as antiques and southern cultural history, I collected them for the make-do use of materials for replacing the worn out seats. I love the folky look and the spirit of the maker to create an interesting work with whatever materials were available in his/her surroundings.

The chair on the top left was actually made by former Tennessee slave, Dick Poyner in the 1800's. Originally, the seat would have been of woven materials. At some point in it's life, the worn out materials were replaced with woven wool yarn.

The chair on the top right, attributed to Tennessee chair maker, Billy Spencer has a seat woven from discarded ladies stockings. Various shades make for an interesting look.

The youth chair on the bottom left, attributed to Tennessee chair maker, Robert Baker has a replaced seat of plastic strips. I love the black weaving against the natural patina of the chair. The use of this material has changed the look of the chair to a very modern one instead of the traditional country chair.

The tiny chair on the bottom right, maker unknown, was made for a doll. The seat has been replaced with twine used for various utility purposes.

We have finally updated our website

2009-04-20T14:14:00.003-05:00

After all this time we finally updated the website. There are some very interesting things as well as some great southern cultural material. Check it out - rescripted.

Everything is BIGGER and LOUDER in Texas

2009-04-14T12:44:00.021-05:00

It's nearing midnight on Thursday, April 2nd, and back at the Bunkhouse (a place we share with friends), the bed feels comfy and cozy. It's been a long day. Out in the tents we have dealt with horrible winds up to 50 mph and selling has been slow due to the weather. It's dead silence here on the 10 acres of property in the tiny town of Round Top - even the Texas long horns which roam the fenced green grasses appear to be sleeping. Just moments before, down the road a few miles in yet another tiny town named Warrenton, it was anything but silent. They say everything is bigger in Texas and to that claim to fame they should add - louder! Two bands were rocking, booze was flowing, great barbecue was smoking, big hair was flying, and the most outrageous outfits of the evening were being flaunted. The tiny town of just under 100 residents was overflowing with everyone but locals; who had pulled their blinds, plugged their ears, and slipped fearfully under the covers until the whole thing passed - which would be about 3 a.m. This is undoubtedly the most talked about event in all of Round Top/Warrenton week (and has even been featured on Good Morning America) - The Junk Gypsy Prom. The whole thing started about 10 years ago and has been rockin ever since. If you don't already have an outfit when you arrive you can purchase one from the Junk Gyspy Girls Tent, or from one of the other vendors who add the prom attire to their inventory just in time for a last minute frock. Each year, the event grows and I do believe this was the most attended ever. Everyone was there - I do mean everyone - although we didn't see him, it has been reported that Willie Nelson himself showed up - of course it is the social event of antique week, so I'm sure it was possible.

Underneath the blankets at the Bunkhouse spilling through the silence from my subconscious, I could still hear the music playing, the smell of the wonderful food from Royers Cafe seemed to still fill the air in my room. There was quiet all around me - but the party was still going on in my head. It's like going from New York City to the country in 60 seconds.

Theresa - time-worn interiors. She has more prom pics on her blog as well.

All Ages Join The Fun!!!!

This had to be the most creative prom hat ever!

Too Much Fun For The Little One!

Me and David in the Outhouse Photo Booth. We were party poopers and didn't get an outfit.

The Junk Gypsy Outhouse Photo Booth.

Get Your Prom Frock Here!

Ways to waste time at an antique show

2009-04-13T13:57:00.011-05:00

Ever wonder what antique dealers do when things get slow at the show? It's not busy all the time.

Sometimes we take silly photos of each other.

Somtimes we stick our face in front of the camera for no reason.

Sometimes we sing the blues - or is that the Yellow Rose of Texas.

Sometimes we take pics of cute little kids.

My friend Dave trying to hide from the camera.

Sometimes we just hang out beside the tent with our friends. My husband David on the left. Our friend Calvin on the right.

PARTY PICS TOMORROW!!!

More Texas Booth Pics

2009-04-10T14:48:00.010-05:00

Absolutely amazing surface on this early Cigar Store Indian from Michigan dealer, Tom Hampton. Tom had some fabulous folk art and walls full of early paintings.

Lisa owner of Inner Pieces from Atlanta, GA had this amazing HUGE (and I do mean HUGE) vintage photograph from France. I loved it!!! I wanted it!!!! And, I still do - but it was out of my budget because at the moment I have other fish to fry (you'll here about that on Monday or Tuesday).

This is one of two photographs that I had in my booth. The photo was taken in the 1970s by photographer Kris Kristoferson (not the singer) of an old sign in the Vegas Sign Graveyard. It was printed on watercolor paper to give it a painterly look. The film was manipulated as well which gives it an interesting style. It didn't sell (wrong type of crowd) so it's going to hang with the other one taken in the same graveyard in my house. I'll snap a pic of the other and post it on another day.

An absolute "kickin" "stylin" booth from my dear friends from - winter in Florida - summer in Maine - Dave and Green Dave (our close friends know what this means)

It just wouldn't be Texas without a booth filled with vintage cowboy boots.

19th Century American carousel piece from Mary

Stunning Garden Urns from Marshall in New Orleans.

A stunning booth by Nashville antique dealer, Randy Farmer and his partner Micheal (who sometimes supplements their income with table dances at the Junk Gypsy Prom). And, speaking of the Junk Gypsy Prom - I'll have highlights from the prom on Monday. You will love this!! And, I'll talk about the parties.

The Beverly Hillbillies do Marburger!!!!!!!!

REMEMBER MONDAY - PICS FROM THE PARTIES AND THE JUNK GYPSY PROM!

Wish you were here... Photos from Texas Antique Show

2009-04-09T12:45:00.012-05:00

Here is our booth at Marburger Farms. It was a mix of fabulous things. One of the favorites of the shoppers had to be the 12 jurors chairs from the courthouse in Mayfield, Kentucky. We split them up in 2 sets of 6. One set went to a customer who bought them to use on her drinking porch and the other 6 went to a young couple in Dallas for use in their apartment. They were totally cool with an iron base with a knob that turned to allow for rocking back in the chairs. They dated to the 1930s - Arts & Crafts style.

These vintage hay rake wheels were a big hit as well. They flew out of the booth. They were removed from an old hay raking machine and mounted on stands as art. The style was Steampunk - a new term now being used in the home furnishingS and fashion markets. They went to Dallas and Atlanta. I wish we had more.

This stepback industrial shelf was totally steampunk style. It was amazing and was my favorite piece. Constructed entirely of iron the shelves were woven like a basket. It had nice design elements such as iron ball feet and finials. It went home with a customer from Austin who is going to use it for clothing.

This is my friend Aaron Rambo's booth. He, along with his partner, Ruth Davis, own a fabulous shop in Houston called Found. Aaron's stunning "loft/warehouse like" home was recently included in the coffee table book Domestic Art published by Assouline. Aaron's work is to die for - he's one of the top designers in Houston. Their booth sold out twice

Looking for more great steampunk or something a little out of the ordinary? Well, it was all here in the booth of my longtime friends - Steve Schwartz and Casey Hale of Urban Country.

HEADS OR TAILS

MORE GREAT STUFF AT THE URBAN COUNTRY BOOTH

MORE BOOTHS, MORE STUFF, MORE FUN TOMORROW!!!!!

We're Back .....

2009-04-07T20:42:00.005-05:00

FINALLY!! WE'RE BACK!

We have some great photographs and interesting stories to tell.

I'll be posting starting tomorrow.

Stay tuned - you don't want to miss this.

POSTING ON THURSDAY MORNING!!

Too Much Going On With the Kids Today.

If you're wondering why we haven't been blogging lately...

2009-03-22T20:52:00.009-05:00

We are getting ready for Marburger Farms in Round Top, Texas. For the past few weeks we have been cleaning and scrubbing and polishing and packing for the trip next week. We leave on Wednesday morning. The Texas shows are GREAT! In the tiny towns of Round Top (pop. 83) and Warrenton approximately 5000 + dealers will fill the cow pastures, and farms with antique wares spanning all time periods. We have some great things for the show, a country store table, some industrial pieces, quilts, ironstone, lights, chairs - I can go on and on. I think my favorite thing at the moment would be the 12 Arts & Crafts period jurors chairs from a jury box in the courthouse in Mayfield, KY. Windsor in design with a cast iron base, they swivel and rock back with the slight turn of the cast iron knob at the front of the chairs - very unusual!

But, Round Top is more than about selling. Loads of fun will be had by all the next week and a half in Texas. There will be plenty of parties, (even a junk gypsy prom), loud Texas music, get togethers with friends, and did I mention parties!!!! If you have never been you should go - and go now!

I promise to take lots and lots of photos - because there will be many Kodak moments, I can assure you. It's not Vegas, but close. And, what happens in Texas, stays in Texas - well... usually. I will be back on April 6 so look for many, many photos after my return. I'm sure you'll get the full scoop from the many other bloggers who will be there. And, if I get a chance to use my friends laptop, I'll post some pics along the way!!

HI HO HI HO IT"S OFF TO TEXAS WE GO!!!

Loving My New Vernacular Snapshot Find

2009-03-07T09:53:00.004-06:00

I recently purchased this amazing vernacular snapshot of a young couple reflected in a fun house mirror. It looks as though they are at a beach. As you can see they are dressed in formal attire. I wonder if they dressed up for the photograph?

Raccoons Everywhere - even the White House

2009-02-26T12:49:00.007-06:00

The "First" Raccoon - friend of the White House

What is is with the raccoons? I wrote in my post yesterday about my little friend Bandit who shows up on my back porch every night. I got an email from a friend with photos of her friends as well. And, then, a raccoon at the White House - what a presidential raccoon? It's true - seems the masked bandit has been hanging out on the White House grounds and has managed to escape security until yesterday when he was captured by the park service.

Bullwinkle, Boris, & Natasha - Friends of Tattered and Lost

Rocky - another friend of Tattered and Lost

No one up but me and Bandit....

2009-02-24T23:10:00.005-06:00

Rendezvous with Bandit

Sleepless nights often bring me to the kitchen for a midnight snack. But, I'm usually not the only one. Bandit, a large raccoon, lives in the huge oak tree beside our house and often meets me just the other side of the kitchen door for a snack - for me a cookie, or cheese puffs - for him yummy Meow-mix cat food. We have become goods friends and he isn't frightened. He even gets along well with the cats who share their food. They do seem to be disturbed that he washes his face in their water though. Blogger friends - meet Bandit.

Good-night Bandit - enjoy the Meow-mix.

Tomorrow - pictures from the show. I'm still recovering.

We're at the show.....

2009-02-19T07:13:00.002-06:00

Finally at the show in Nashville! Opening tonight. Photos to come. You won't believe my booth - well yes..... you probably will, Stay tuned!

Valentine's Kisses My Love

2009-02-14T10:44:00.005-06:00

"READ MY LIPS"

Give me three kisses - once on each cheek

and then my luscious red lips!

AFRICAN AMERICAN HOOKED RUG

IMPROVISATIONAL LIPS

Haywood County, Tennessee, Circa 1940

Once again the discarded fabrics of the life of the maker have found their way into the making of a utilitarian object. Constructed of discarded red knit socks, black wool suiting and black cotton dress fabrics this very unique rug is a true artistic expression of love. The deceased maker would likely be surprised if she knew the effect that her individual design has upon us - a deep appreciation for the simple, yet complex works of art that these objects represent. Black & Lip Stick Red!The rug is in excellent unworn condition. There are a few stray absent loops of fabric here and there but that is not the result of wear - it is as a result of the untrained hand of the maker. Additionally, some of the loops are tight are some are more loosely constructed - this was purposely done to create a look of texture. It's a fabulous work of art!!!

99 Hearts for Valentine's Eve

2009-02-13T17:21:00.010-06:00

99 Hearts

African American Quilt Circa 1930's

Fantastic African American quilt found in Texas's oldest town, Nacogdoches. Clovers of 99 Red Hearts in two varying shades of red are laid to a bleached muslin ground. Outer 2 edges are halved with merely a single heart in lower corner - consequence of an African American superstitious tradition to avoid creation in symmetrical fashion - no evil spirits here. For a maker of pristine quilts, the lining (back) of this quilt would be an odd color choice for a red & white quilt. But for the African American quilt maker it would be a color she loved - the back is dyed cotton muslin in lime green.

Detail of Improvisational Heart Quilt

Detail of Dyed Back of Quilt

It really is a small world

2009-02-10T09:41:00.011-06:00

Many of you know that we collect vernacular snapshots. I especially love those with a message written on the back, or sometimes on the front. I was pleasantly surprised when I found this photograph from a photography dealer in California. It was taken in my tiny hometown, Newbern, Tennessee in 1937. How it made its way from Tennessee to California, or if perhaps the photograph was taken by someone passing through, we will never know. Of course, I had to add this one to our collection.

This is why you should always check your child's homework..

2009-01-30T10:53:00.004-06:00

Dear Mrs. Jones,

I wish to clarify that I am not now, nor have I ever been, an exotic dancer. I work at Home Depot and I told my daughter how hectic it was last week before the blizzard hit. I told her we sold out every single shovel we had, and then I found one more in the back room, and that several people were fighting over who would get it. Her picture doesn't show me dancing around a pole. It's supposed to depict me selling the last snow shovel we had at Home Depot. From now on I will remember to check her homework more thoroughly before she turns it in.

Sincerely,

Mrs. Smith

You wouldn't let your pet eat from this 100+ year old bowl...

2009-01-29T16:25:00.009-06:00

Nope, you probably won't find anyone with a bowl such as this one being used for their pet's dining. That's because this bowl is over 100 years old and was made by a working potter in Middle Tennessee during the 19th century. Commonly referred to as a dog bowl, that was not its only purpose. Bowls such as these were also used as a rabbit feeding bowl, cat bowl, etc. It has a beautiful salt glaze with drippings - I love to see that on old pottery. Pretty hefty in weight the bowl was durable and still is after all these years. It is a highly desirable piece and sought after by southern pottery collectors. It's value is approximately $130.00.

The blue gray circle that you see here happened as a result of the piece being stacked beneath another piece of pottery in the firing process.

We found lots of great things, such as this bowl, on our buying trip this past week-end. We'll talk about some of our finds throughout the week-end and next week and will be adding some of our finds to our website.

Where in the world are we going?.?.?.?.?

2009-01-23T16:02:00.008-06:00

Photo credit killer.bee.sting

I wish he/she would start posting again.

We're doing something we LOVE this week-end. We're going "looking", "hunting", "junkin", "antiquing" - whatever you want to call it. Check back on Monday to see what we found - (that is if we find anything). We want something really great to sell!

A Hug For Barack Obama

2009-01-20T12:36:00.004-06:00

Unbelievably, we convinced our 3 year old granddaughter to bump Dora the Explorer to watch the Inauguration of Barack Obama with us. We told her she was witnessing an historical event that one day she would tell her children about. David got out the camera to take pictures so she would have something as a reminder in the future. We were all on the sofa watching the speech and she seemed to be really listening. She has talked about Barack Obama on several occasions throughout his campaign, as they have discussed the election in her pre-school class. At the end of the speech, as President Obama was greeting the crowd around him, Lila jumps up (this was not prompted) and said, "I'm going to give "Rock" (as she calls him) Obama a hug." She runs over to the TV and hugs him from the screen. Luckily David was still holding the camera, so he captured a great "Kodak moment".

Whether we agree, or disagree with the outcome of this election, I hope that we all, will come together and give a new voice and a new leadership a chance. Let's all embrace (hug) our new president in hope, love, and a better tomorrow.

Three Cheers For the Red, White, & Blue & the Art of Improvisation...

2009-01-18T14:14:00.011-06:00

Improvisation, manifested in the form of cultural objects, has long been a favorite of collectors of the folk art genre. It is the maker's interpretation of a response to his immediate environment that provokes the interest. The object takes on the maker's abilities and surroundings, their feelings, and often times, simply the necessity to create out of need. The flag shown here, made in 1900, was likely created for use as a parade flag - its size and the fact that it is mounted to a stick suggests this (perhaps for a Presidential parade - it was an election year). The beauty of the object here, is the makers interpretation of the American flag - completely hand sewn, the maker has included in its construction 2 blue bars, which obviously isn't correct. We have no way of knowing if the maker simply couldn't recall the correct inclusion of the bars or if it was her/his own desire to create a unique work. The fact that the bars are not evenly spaced adds to its folky, make-do appeal.

Dated 1900 Improvisational Make-do American Flag

Constructed of period flag bunting, stars are embroidered

with wool yarn and twine - entirely hand sewn.

Primitive chain stitch dated 1900

A reminder why spell check is important....

2009-01-13T13:35:00.007-06:00

Don't you just love it?!?! Oh... the words of babes.

If only the words we mistakenly use could be taken so lightly.

Interview with Willow at Willow Manor

2009-01-12T00:32:00.017-06:00

One of my favorite bloggers, Willow over at Willow Manor seems to have had a tremendous response to her interview requests. I too, think it is a great way to learn more about our bloggie friends. I've only been blogging for a very short time - but it is a great experience. The rules for continuing on with the online "meet and greet" can be found at the end of the interview. I'm looking forward to hearing from you. Here we go....

1. How did you and David meet and also, how did you get started as antique dealers?

David and I met in our hometown, Dyersburg, Tennessee, although neither of us lived there at the time. We were introduced by my cousin - and it was love at first sight - literally. I commented to her (my cousin) that he would be my next husband. I have 2 children by a previous marriage, David had none. So, inheriting a family might have seemed pretty scary for most men. But, David has been the perfect stepfather. My children, and especially my grandchildren, adore him - who wouldn't? As it turned out we actually lived down the street from each other all of our lives but being that David is 7 years younger, I never noticed him. Yep - I'm a cradle robber. David is a saint - I have all these crazy ideas, constantly. He usually goes along with them - great that he does - he has to make them work out - like the time I had him turn a truck bed toolbox into a bathroom vanity. It's amazing - I'll post a pic.

I have been a collector of antiques since I was a child when my grandmother and aunt would drag me along to country auctions. As I grew tired of things that I had collected I would sell them. I opened a small antique shop the year before we were married and afterwards I convinced David to quit his job so that we could open a 32,000 square foot antique mall. We had 125 dealers. It was a Kroger grocery store in its previous life. We ended up opening 4 more stores before we moved back to West Tennessee to be closer to our grandchildren.

2. What is your personal favorite vintage possession?

Over the years as antique dealers, and seeing so much, we often find ourselves loving something only for the moment - there's always something better that we run upon. Of course, there have been times that we insisted that we would never sell some great piece that we had found - but we always did and still do. We don't sell our black & white vernacular snapshots though. We have a wonderful collection and have never talked about selling those.

3. What is your greatest accomplishment?

I am fortunate to have had several accomplishments that I consider great opportunities. Before I was an antique dealer, I was a toy designer. I designed a doll called, The Kool-aid Kid which was a great seller and through the use of that doll I created a program for General Foods to get their Kool-Aid product into non-traditional outlets such as Wal-mart. I also designed a toy called Frog Ball - it was a small round ball - about golf ball size - with legs like a frog. When you bounced it, it hopped like a frog. There were other toy spin offs such as Frogball Baseball, Frogball Stickmitt, etc. At one time it was one of the top ten selling toys in the country. Then David and I wrote a book about antiquing across the U.S. - Leggett's Antiques Atlas which we self published for a couple of years and then Random House published it for a couple of years. I have 2 beautiful children, a boy and a girl. But, my greatest accomplishment is yet to come. When my grandchildren become adults, if I can look at them and see that they are outstanding citizens, respectful of the people and the world around them, and knowledgeable and happy - then that will be the greatest accomplishment of my life. Knowing that I played a part in all that.

4. If you could have dinner with a historical figure, who would it be and why?

God - because I have lots of questions that I need to ask Him about this world.

5. Before blogging, what, if any, was your mode of personal expression?

For 3 long years David and I completely transformed an 1890s Victorian farmhouse. This house was a mess when we bought it. There was plenty of opportunity for personal expression. We opened up rooms, painted the plank floors high gloss black, added some unusual elements to the fireplace hearths, included some non-traditional lighting, planted over 150 plants and blooming trees, the list goes on and on. See the post - December, 2008 - the rescripted house.

Instructions:

1. Leave me a comment saying, "Interview me."
2. I will respond by emailing you five questions. (I get to pick the
questions).
3. You will update your blog with the answers to the questions.
4. You will include this explanation and an offer to interview
someone else in the same post.
5. When others comment asking to be interviewed, you will receive five questions.

(please send me an email when your interview is posted, along with your blog name and URL...thanks!)

A Found Photograph

2009-01-10T21:58:00.008-06:00

For those of you who are just learning a little about us, we thought you might like to know that we collect vintage vernacular snapshots. Of course, the quirky, mysterious ones always catch our eye. We have a rather large collection. We'll post a few over the next few weeks. Below is a spirit photograph probably 1950s that is one of our favorites. I especially love the text that was written on the back.

Even though Gwendolyn had passed away seven years before, she was often seen drifting in and out of her old sedan where her body had been found. (text written in pencil on back of photo), collection of David & Kim Leggett

To see and learn more about spirit photographs, view the amazing online exhibit at Luminous Lint Ghosts, Apparitions, Angels, Spiritual Visitations and Views of the Future, curated by Alan Griffiths. Please take time to read the intro - fascinating information.

A confession... the only time I ever told David a lie..

2009-01-09T18:46:00.012-06:00

Betsey Bates, 1956

Paper Doll Illustrator, Painted in 3-D, Oil on Masonite

By now, those who have been reading my posts have come to know that I like things that are a little out of the ordinary. A couple of years ago in Brimfield, Mass., I spotted these portraits amongst the wares of a dealer that I had come to know through many shows - a dealer who always had unique and intriguing things. I was sitting in my booth minding my own business, (David would say that was a rare moment in time or not to be believed) when ... oh... about 100 yards away - give or take alot (I have no sense of distance) I saw these portraits propped up against Mike's van. They sure looked like something I should check out. They seemed rather curious and after contemplating as to whether I should continue this unusual act of minding my own business or being nosey, I .... well you can imagine what happened. I was only going to look, had no intention of buying anything, and besides I really needed to go down and say "hello" to Mike - wouldn't want him to think I was being unfriendly and what would it hurt if I just happened to take a look at his "stuff" while I was there. After all, if I hadn't of looked, it might have caused him to have some kinda weird image complex - like he might think that he had nothing interesting to look at - and I sure wouldn't want him to feel that way, being the great dealer that he is. So, just to be nice - I looked at the portraits. He smiled when he saw my face, he knew I had to have them, and he knew he was about to make a sale! About that time, David, aka party pooper, walks up. I showed him the portraits, explained how much I loved them and wanted to buy them. Can you believe he actually thought I was joking? He reminded me that we had come to sell, not to buy, and particularly not to buy anything to keep. I was just devastated - well maybe that's a little too much drama - but it was close. Well, all afternoon I thought about those portraits. I kept looking at them, longing for them, lusting (well maybe not lusting) for them. David kept a watchful eye. He refused to go to the bathroom or get something to eat for fear that when he came back he would be the proud owner of a pair of portraits. I convinced him that I had to go tell Mike that I wasn't going to take them, I couldn't just leave him hanging. Now here comes the confession.... I told Mike I would take the portraits - but I needed for him to take them home, then I would send a check, and then he could mail them to me. I would figure out what to tell David when the portraits arrived. That gave me about a week to convince him that we should call Mike back and buy the portraits. Of course, when I got home I immediately mailed the check - I was working hard on David at this point because I knew those portraits were coming when Mike got that check. He just would not budge. Weeeeellll... Mike got the check and sent me an email that he had shipped the paintings. I had been checking my email every five seconds for several days after I had mailed the check. You see, we have a blackberry and David has it. If I don't catch the emails on the computer before they come in on the blackberry then David gets them first. I was sweating it - I mean really sweating it. Now, I had to somehow convince him we should buy those paintings or I was just going to have to tell him. One afternoon, about a day before they were to arrive, while sitting out on the front porch I decided to just tell him the truth - so I did. I had never lied to him before in the 13 years - no 14 - is it 13 or 14 - 1995 - 14 this April, since we have been married - except for the teeny tiny one when a tie down strap blew up out of the back of the truck and got wrapped around the drive shaft. When it broke, it flew up and dented the side of the truck. My mother was with me and we acted like we didn't know what happened. But, somehow he knew what had happened. It was my mother who told me to lie about it and it was tiny so it doesn't count - right LOL? I felt terrible telling him how I had gone behind his back and bought these portraits and how I was sorry that I had not told him, and I was just going on and on about it. He started laughing - here I was pouring out my heart to him about how horrible I felt and he was laughing. Can you believe it? When I asked him what he found so humorous about all this, he pulled out the blackberry and said, "I got the email days ago that they are on the way." He never let on that he knew, he loved watching me sweat it out. He really is a wonderful husband, even though he has no appreciation for great art (just kidding about the art thing). I am so laughing right now just thinking about this!

Betsey was a famous paper doll illustrator for McCall's & other

popular publications. Remember the paper dolls that you cut out

of magazines as a child? I'm not sure if these portraits are her own

self expression or if they were a part of her illustrative work. They

are painted in 3-D. Perhaps they were her children.

One of those days.......

2009-01-05T21:21:00.007-06:00

Ever had one of those days?

At least we can laugh about it!

Richard C. Bray, Hudson, NY 1973 - From the study - "Found"

IMAGINE - A song of peace ... or is it?

2009-01-02T19:39:00.009-06:00

If you were watching the ball drop on Times Square this New Year's Eve you probably heard one of the most popular songs ever written, Imagine by John Lennon. In fact, the song has been heard at Times Square every New Year's Eve since 2006. It is often played as an inspiration of peace. But, was the song really penned to inspire the hope of a more peaceful world? In the book Lennon In America, written by Geoffrey Giuliano, Lennon commented that the song was "an anti-religious, anti-nationalistic, anti-conventional, anti-capitalistic song, but because it's sugar-coated, it's accepted." While Lennon's lyric for peace may never be certain, cultural America has accepted and adapted the words as a symbol of peace by those who interpreted the words to fit their own emotion or cause. Cultural Art Form Circa 1970's interpretation of the popular John Lennon song "Imagine". Used at a Vietnam protest rally in Ohio. Words have been altered to fit sentiments of protester.
Oil on Plywood Board - Vernacular Lettering - 5' 11" tall x 1' 10" wide. Collection of David & Kim Leggett

this New Year's Eve.......

2008-12-31T18:23:00.004-06:00

I hope you dance......

Circa 1950's Palizzio Lizard Stiletto Heels

This New Year's Eve - if you can't.....

2008-12-29T16:57:00.011-06:00

be with the one you love.... love the one you're with.

Fortunately, I'm with the one I love!

From the archive of New York City photographer, Richard C. Bray

From the study "Found" Found Kiss on a Napkin, NYC 1979

For more photographs visit the archive website Richard C. Bray

Black and White design - vintage style

2008-12-26T13:44:00.009-06:00

Classic, clean, sophisticated, modern - black and white makes a bold design statement. The two contrasting colors always produce strong graphic results in a room and naturally draws the eye. Over the past few years black and white has become a popular decorating trend and many home furnishings stores, such as Pottery Barn, have offered a broad range of furniture and accessories to complete these rooms. But for us, it's out with the "new" and in with the "old" - yes we said that correctly. Our love for vintage pieces has us out looking for black and white in vintage style. Recently we found these amazing salesman sample signs from the 1930's. The sign painter, from NYC produced these samples to show his ability to produce trade signs to his prospective clients. Hand painted on board the small signs measuring 7" x 7" look stylish when matted and framed. We have them hanging in a group of 4 on our dining room wall. You can have these 1930's sample trade signs in your own home. Visit our website rescripted to purchase these amazing vintage signs. They are featured in the category Urban Design.

A piece of Christmas past

2008-12-24T07:44:00.008-06:00

Now after Jesus was born in Bethlehem of Judea in the days of Herod, magi (wise men) from the east arrived in Jerusalem saying, "Where is He who has been born King of the Jews? For we saw His star in the east and have come to worship Him."

African American Wise Man, Circa 1930's
Made for a Christmas play at an African American church

Tupelo, Mississippi

Oil on board, rhinestone crown, remnants of leather strap shoes.

Pigeon barn re-design .....

2008-12-22T18:53:00.008-06:00

Ok guys - for Mark and all of you, including myself, who prefer a simple urban sophistication in your holiday decor, here is a different take on the pigeon barn that was shown in a garden setting last Friday night. We were inspired by a post last week at Eddie Ross entitled - No Wire Hangers! (well, maybe just one). We created our own miniature interpretation.

BE SURE TO CHECK OUT OUR VERY SPECIAL CHRISTMAS TREE BELOW!!!

The story of the Snow Angel Christmas Tree.. a tale of inspiration

2008-12-22T13:01:00.022-06:00

Just imagine how beautiful life would be if we could just look at it through the eyes of a child. In their innocence children see beauty in ways that we never imagine. Especially during the holiday season we adults get all caught up in trying to make everything so perfect - the perfectly decorated Christmas tree, the perfect holiday meal, the perfect gift, a perfectly clean house.

A few days ago, my 5 year old grandson asked me why I didn't have a Christmas tree. I explained to him that I had given all my special ornaments to his mother so that she could put them on their Christmas tree - I just didn't have time to go out to look for antique ornaments at this late date. So, therefore, I wasn't going to have a Christmas tree this year. He looked very puzzled by my response and then he looked at me with that sweet little face and said - "I can make some ornaments for you - snowflake ornaments - I know how to make them and they are really pretty. Then you can have a Christmas tree." At first I was a little apprehensive, wondering what this tree might look like. But, then I started to get inspired. I imagined that the snowflakes would bear the same sentiments of all the framed artwork that I had collected from his pre-school days. I thought about how unique that would be - I love folk art by the untrained hand and have collected it for years. This was a "perfect" idea! Folk art snowflakes made by the most special little boy in the world.

While Riley cut snowflakes from copy paper we talked about what kind of tree we should get - large, small, spruce, cedar. I went out to the workshop and pulled out the vintage yard angel and brought it in to show to Riley to see if he had anymore ideas. As he snipped and cut away, his little 3 year old sister, and 8 year old cousin joined in. Soon we had lots of wonderful ornaments for the tree. Using the angel and the snow for inspiration we decided to call it a Snow Angel tree and since snow falls in nature we decided that the tree should be natural too - with barren winter branches. It was decided - we had our ideas - now for the tree. As with all ideas that we have around here it is up to David to make it work. He went down the road to a fence row and cut the tree, then spent hours wrapping each branch with 900 lights. The yard angel became our tree topper and we love how the blue lights on the bottom of the tree make her stand out. Then we took spray snow and sprayed all the branches for the look of new fallen snow. Riley, Lila, and Athena were so excited to add their artful interpretations of snowflakes. We topped it off by throwing bags of loose snow all over the tree (and on each other, and all over the room). It was great fun!! And, when we were all finished we stood back and smiled - Riley, Lila and Athena were gleaming with pride. It was an amazing tree, made out of the love and imagination of a child who never imagined that it would be anything put perfect!

MERRY CHRISTMAS

an update to the rescripted pigeon barn

2008-12-19T21:49:00.003-06:00

My friend, Mark wrote to ask how he could use this pigeon barn in a more sophisticated urban decor - of course we have a wonderful simple design idea for using it that way too. We'll post the new look Monday night on our next scheduled blog post.

the rescripted home of the carrier pigeon

2008-12-19T19:36:00.007-06:00

I remember learning about the carrier pigeon when I was in kindergarten (which just happens to be one of the most memorable times of my life). Mrs. Brown knew about all kinds of interesting and unusual things (like the Easter Bunny, but that's another story for another time), and the carrier pigeon was one of the best! I thought it to be so mysterious how a bird could leave his home, travel many miles away, and return - all without the use of a Tom Tom. You might say the little creatures were the first to invent overnight mail - and Fedex thought it was their idea! The delivery of messages (called pigeon posts) during WW I and II was largely the job of the carrier pigeon. I wonder if any soldiers ever sent a love note via pigeon express? Messages were written on thin paper - sometimes papers used for rolling cigarettes were used - then banded to the foot of the pigeon. The pigeons were transported in barns such as these and while they have retired from their days of being the first messenger service, they are sometimes still used in the sport of racing.

We recently discovered this vintage pigeon barn on a old porch along the Tennessee River in West Tennessee. It brought back so many memories from Mrs. Brown's class. Made of zinc, the piece has a wonderful aged patina. I haven't seen one of these in years, and on the way home my mind was swirling with all kinds of ways to "rescript" the home of the carrier pigeon into my own home. It was very simple in fact, we cut some boughs from a couple of pine trees, pulled some grapevine from the fence down the road, added a couple of early 20th century cement pigeons from a collection that I have - for warmth and charm we threw in a few candles in vintage tin tart cups - sprinkled in a little snow for the season - and in a matter of minutes we had a fabulous redesign for the holidays! Later it can become a great sculptural piece on a table.

If you're digging this pigeon barn as much as we do, it's available for sale on our website - rescripted and don't forget to check our blog update on Monday night - our Christmas tree is a must see!!!!

the ever versatile, often rescripted blanket box

2008-12-17T19:02:00.018-06:00

Blanket boxes of various forms and sizes have been a part of American design since the Pilgrims landed at Plymouth. In its simplest form, the box, (or chest as they are often referred), was a large wooden box with a hinged lid. It's function was primarily for the storage of clothing, linens and valuables but in harder times the piece served as seating as well. Many blanket boxes were constructed with the ability to move around easily - and not just within the home. The boxes seen here are often referred to as a "squatters box" - earning its name from the squatters who often loaded their wagons and moved clear across country. Most chests of this type are flat, and have handles for lifting or moving. They were easily loaded onto wagons with the belongings inside.

Over the past few decades, the blanket box has become a favorite form of furniture among designers looking for a transitional design element for the home. These versatile pieces are often seen as stylish coffee tables, bathroom pieces, and side tables as well as fulfilling their original function as a storage piece at the end of a bed.

It's stylish, simple form lends the use of the blanket box to many decors, from country, to modern, and even as a nice design element in a contemporary home.

The white box pictured here is circa 1880-90's and has dove-tailing and square nail construction. The white paint was likely added in the early part of the 19th century. It has the perfect worn patina.

A smaller example of a blanket chest likely made for a child. Circa 1900, original blue paint.
I love this in a bathroom. It's small size is perfect for a smaller space.

"Rescript" these blanket boxes into your home. The two boxes shown here will be available for purchase on our website for the Friday night update (12-19-08) at 8 p.m. c.s.t. rescripted

designing with the masters at the FlowerSchool NY

2008-12-15T19:04:00.010-06:00

Master Floral Designer Michael George

For 14 months last year, I had the honored pleasure of studying with master floral designers, Michael George and Felipe Sastre, as well as a few other master designers in the city, at the prestigious FlowerSchool NY in New York City. I'm sure that you've heard the name Michael George mentioned many times as he is not only the designer to rich and famous celebrities, but he is somewhat of a celebrity himself. He is seen frequently on Martha Stewart, Good Morning America, as well as numerous other popular programs and has appeared in many shelter publications. His list of clients, (and here it is very brief), include Calvin Klein, Ralph Lauren, Vogue, VH1 and numerous record labels and he still finds the time to lecture several floral design classes per week and author several books. He is an amazingly funny man, with an incredibly warm personality wrapped around all that talent. The designs taught at the school are non-traditional - more of an architectural precision - often simple yet very, very beautiful. "You can go as far as you like", says Michael. "Beautiful design doesn't have to be overwhelming, unless you want it to be." Each class begins with the selection of flowers, always the best ones from the large flower market in the city, and how to care for them to achieve longevity. Then the fun part begins as Michael or Felipe (another master designer who teaches some of the classes) explains the design and how to achieve it. All the help you'll ever need is right there with the masters to create a stunning arrangement. In the end, you get to take what you've created home!! We traveled to NY sometimes twice a week during the 14 months and I always took the flowers, hidden in a large bag, (which always got me funny looks from security), back home to Tennessee. The school, located in the Tudor Place neighborhood, was a 45 minute brisk walk from our hotel (The Paramount) - I always teased David that he was walking me to and from school - and yes, he always carried my books.

one of the many stunning designs taught by Michael George

the mysterious master designer - Michael George

always "to die for" flowers to work with

Felipe Sastre - another amazing master designer

WE DID IT!!!!

the photography of Richard C. Bray

2008-12-10T17:51:00.005-06:00

Photographs of the famous Rockefeller Center

Christmas Tree in New York City

The top photograph was taken in 1971

and the bottom photograph taken in 1977.

Richard C. Bray was born September 26, 1929, the grandson of a NY Congressman. He received his doctorate in Philosophy from Columbia University in 1961, where he became a faculty biochemist. His work at Columbia left him unfulfilled and his longing to devote his life to photography led him to leave his position to follow his dream.

He traveled obsessively, covering every state in the U.S. and 16 countries abroad. In a letter dated 1951 he wrote that he had stayed in 186 hotel rooms and hitch-hiked in 1025 cars. When he wasn't traveling he spent his days walking the streets of New York photographing ordinary people in urban life, and documenting the city's landmarks, beaches, architecture, and neighborhoods. It was often his goal to seek out and produce photographs in similar subject matter which he referred to as "studies". His style includes various photographic approaches from abstracts to experimental to street photography.

Richard was reclusive, not in the usual sense, but more in his inability to tolerate people in society. Therefore he literally lived out his life through the eye of the camera. His peculiar nature left him with no desire to sell or publish his work. The archive, spanning from the 1950's until his death in 1993 was recently discovered upon the death of his wife.

We are so fortunate to have found the entire life's work of such a unique individual. As we have sorted through thousands of photographs the true personality of the artist has emerged. He found beauty in so many things and when beauty was expected (such as the tree that millions visit each year) he went even farther to make it his own. It is now at this time of the season that we appreciate the work of this amazing photographer - and to see the tree at Rockefeller Center the way that Richard C. Bray saw it.

To view more of the Richard C. Bray archive visit the website.

a definately rescripted scissor lamp

2008-12-08T20:08:00.001-06:00

This fabulous scissor lamp ranks among one of my most favorite finds of all time. I bought it in NYC from a great dealer, Judith Milne at the Pier Show last November. It fits beautifully above my comfy leather chair and always gets lots of curious comments. It's a perfect light when reading all my favorite shelter mags. I love to take what once was - and recreate it to what's now. You might be surprised to learn that in its former life it was used in a hospital. Yep - that's right it is a surgeons lamp. It mounted to the wall in the operating room and the scissor function allowed for placing light over the patient. Pretty high style for back in the 1930's! The lamp is made of chrome and the handle that you see on the front allowed for the placement of the lamp for the surgeon. Its form is amazing. I love the handle and the large bell shaped top. The lamp lends itself to many styles and decors - I call it Urban Design - great for a loft but perfect in my home too. Don't forget to check out our new website. It went live last night rescripted.com

Our next blog post will be Wednesday evening, December 10. Till then.....

the rescripted house .....

2008-12-06T17:16:00.003-06:00

Once upon a time, in the year 1890 to be exact, Gran & Callie Williams built the house of their dreams atop a beautiful grassy knoll amidst giant mossy oaks. Using wood cut from their 98 acre woods, the couple meticulously constructed a home unique for the tiny town of Newbern, Tennessee. Demo begins on the front porch just days after purchasing the house.

Today the 98 acre woods is a beautifully manicured golf course and the home, which overlooks the playing field has undergone a major transformation. We knew when we bought the house we would have tons of work to do, but we didn't mind. We had fallen in love with it even before it was for sale. We drove by the house everyday on our way into town and often commented on how it would be a dream come true to live there. David always laughed and said we could never afford it even if it was for sale. Then one day while driving into town, I noticed a bright orange sign sticking up in the yard as we approached the house - FOR SALE - I could hardly contain myself! I immediately called and arranged an appointment to see the house that afternoon.

Fast forward 3 years - NO, three long, hard years - that's how long it took to do the renovation. We had to "rescript" this house to fit a 20th century lifestyle and design. And, we had no "real" idea of the condition when we purchased the house - the very nature of old houses, they have many hidden secrets. The house has gone from, literally, falling apart to the return of its grandeur in 1890. David did most of the work alone - spending 14 + hours a day, his work lovingly and meticulously executed. If one were to uncover these walls and floors I'm sure you would find evidence of hard labor sweat stains on every inch. The transformation included opening up rooms to create a flow for maximum light and space. The color palette is neutral white walls with a sparse use of objectified color. The plank floors have been ebonized giving the look and feel of being in a metropolitan city.

A 1950's bad design project of the side/back porch yielded unsightly results. Glad this is gone!!

MUCH, MUCH, MUCH BETTER - DON'T YOU THINK!

The grand stone fireplace. We LOVE IT! We can't wait for the Carolina Jasmine to start climbing the post and cover the top!

View of the golf course lawn from the pavilion. And, we don't even play golf!!

Out back the view of the golf course was so lovely that we constructed a 30 x 30 tin covered pavilion with a grand stone fireplace. This outdoor living space has been one of our favorite places for entertaining or just relaxing on hot summer days and especially this past fall season with the warmth of the fire. After a year the blooming plants finally took off and we are "almost" finished (is anything ever really finished) with the exterior of the house - not counting furnishing the porches and pavilion, of course - that's another design project that we will tackle this spring.

For now, it's time to go inside to design and "rescript" each room. With the color palette in place, our blank canvas is ready to become a masterpiece. We hope that you will be a part of this transformation. We'll take it room by room and ask for your suggestions on style, objects, placement, etc - all things that make a room a home. We'll post a "blank" room when we are ready to begin. So, keep watching. In the meantime, we'll post design tips for "rescripting" old or vintage things into your own home - included mixing styles and periods, interviews with collectors and dealers, show and shopping reviews, posts on some of our favorite things to collect, along with cool vintage stuff to wear, and sometimes just how our own life is "rescripted" from day to day.

We will post 3 days a week, faithfully - Monday, Wednesday, & Friday evenings. We are also very excited about our new website that will go up tomorrow night (Sun., Dec. 7). Be sure to check it out - here is the link - http://www.rescripted.com/ we think you'll enjoy shopping there. It's still a new beginning so don't get discouraged because we don't have lots of things on there yet. We have lots to add and will update the website each Friday evening and will have it full soon. If you want to get reminders of the blog and website updates just let us know.