There are certain rituals about my life in LA that never change, no matter my circumstances. When I was unemployed and broke as a joke. When I was working like a mad woman with only the occasional day off. Whether I was pining away for one boy or deeply entrenched in another, I always took a couple of hours once a month to wander aimlessly around the Pasadena Rose Bowl Flea Market. All of that dusty chaos is soothing.
It truly is a sight to behold. This glorious junk fest falls on the second Sunday of every month, and I don't go every month, but I do make it a handful of times a year. I discovered thrift store chic late in college (didn't everyone?), and somehow never shook it. I am well into the age of wearing brand new, as opposed to new-to-me, but nothing thrills like that perfect little threadbare dress and all the stories it holds. The last few years, I've switched my main focus from apparel to home wares. But there's really no booth I won't muse over.
Like this collection of scissors and clamps and fingernail clippers. I don't watch Dexter, but this is what I envision that show to be about.
This woman with the lace is in the same spot every month and these pieces are so exquisite it almost makes you want to cry.
You have to be in the mood for digging at booths like this one, but there are great finds in there. I managed to pick up this Georgia peach tablecloth for $8. I love its look, and have plenty of opportunity to use things like that.
I don't know why I am always drawn to random whimsical things like large circus letters and this heavy mirrored star, but I just love them. I gave in and bought the star (even haggled with the guy - something I'm pretty terrible at doing), and I have a very special place in mind for it.
There are tons and tons of costume jewelry that is so fun to sift through and try on, but I never buy any of it. Something about squinting in the heat makes me feel less than glamorous, and I just can't make a jewelry decision in those conditions.
There are plenty of toys and the occasional large school clock.
It's never boring. I'm almost always on these expeditions alone, which I prefer anyway. And always, without fail, I end up kicking myself for not buying something I admired. This week it was this perfect orange and navy silk scarf. It was $2, why did I hesitate? I spent more on the bottle of water they sell at the entrance.
Maybe it'll be there next time, right on top in that huge bin of old scarves in the 287th aisle. I guess I'll have to go back to check. Anything to get out of going to church, right?
Oh, wow. I've seen it on TV and thought it must be so glorious . . . Maybe someday.
Posted by: Megan | November 11, 2008 at 02:08 PM
You're turning into your mother.
Posted by: mom | November 12, 2008 at 08:32 AM