Well… I managed to avoid nearly all of the cool things that were going on this weekend, and instead, focused on the sheer delight of being home… watching the rain, nesting, and getting crafty.
I did make a brief jaunt out Sunday afternoon (had to change out of my pj’s for the trip) to check out the Sausal Creek Native Plant Sale in Joaquin Miller Park. Took this shot on my way…
It was awfully pretty ~ I love the rain.
I love this little thrift shop… which isn’t so little anymore. The Clausen House Thrift Shop recently took over the space next door – adding their Annex space, which is quite awesome, and at the same time alleviating some of the complaints about their original space.
I checked them out recently on Yelp and was surprised to see they only got 3 stars. In looking over some of the lower ratings, it seems most complaints were about the crowded chaotic clutter of the original space. One visitor wrote “This place needs a new face lift.” Well, it’s gotten it.
Their primary space is still a funky thrift with hit or miss finds. But then again, that’s half the fun of thrifting… you have to hunt for the treasures. But the space is much more open, organized, and inviting. I was kind of blown away when I walked in a few weeks ago. “Wow… you guys have really spruced things up a bit!”
Amidst the requisite old records, teacups, and funky furniture, there’s a smorgasbord of stuff to peruse. Right now they’ve got their costume stuff out front so it might be fun to stop by if you’re still struggling to figure out what you’re going to be for Halloween. (Tomorrow’s post will feature another hot spot for costuming supplies.)
Their prices are extremely reasonable (in my opinion), and the best part is that the proceeds support the Clausen House, which works in Oakland and the greater East Bay to support people with disabilities.
At CLAUSEN HOUSE, we build self-confidence, teach everyday living skills, and encourage an optimal level of independence in people with developmental disabilities. These vibrant men and women discover opportunities for inclusion in the community while pursuing education, employment, and volunteer work with increasing command over their own lives.
It’s a great cause, and the thrift store itself is even utilized as a training facility for many of the adults served by Clausen House.
But my favorite thing is the new Annex (pictured above). I see the Annex as the upscale arm of this thrift enterprise. It features primarily antique furniture and art, most of which is really quite lovely. I purchased an antique Japanese print on silk, gorgeously framed in muted blues, grays, and silver. I knew it would look perfect in my new kitchen, and the price was right.
I asked the employee about the expansion of their collection and he said the manager had started going to estate sales to acquire inventory, in addition to the regular stream of donations they receive (which are tax deductible by the way). They also accept consignments, splitting proceeds between consignee and the store.
I spotted this Ikki Matsumoto bird print immediately, because we have three of them in our home. I wanted to round out our collection at four, but the price was a bit steep for me, but actually a very good value for one of his original signed prints.
Ikki is an internationally renowned artist. Born in Tokyo, he moved to the United States as a young adult to study art. He worked for many years as an illustrator and graphic designer in advertising, but eventually grew discontent. He and his wife moved to Sanibel Island, Florida to work on fine art and open their own gallery – this influence is seen in his many bird and fish prints. Other claims to fame include illustrating several editions of The Joy of Cooking, and painting an Easter egg for then First Lady Nancy Reagan – it’s now permanently stored in the Smithsonian Museum.
If you’re looking for a great place to buy reasonably priced art or antiques, I highly recommend the Annex. Or if you’re in the mode of purging rather than acquiring, consider taking your donations to Clausen Thrift. You’ll be supporting a great cause either way.
Clausen House Thrift & Annex
4834 Telegraph Avenue
Oakland, CA 94609
HOURS: Mon-Fri 11am – 6pm, Sat/Sun 12pm – 5pm
Saw this while out garage sale-ing last weekend…
I love autumn… the crisp air and slow turning sunsets, the crackle of leaves underfoot and blaze of colors above, and the scent of burnt wood in the night. It’s undoubtedly my favorite time of year… especially when you throw in the fun of dressing up in costume & getting sticky with pumpkin goo.
Here’s a non-comprehensive look at some fun & interesting upcoming events over the next couple of weeks (please send in comments if I’ve missed something good):
The Crucible presents a Flamenco-infused evening filled with live Flamenco music, Spanish food and drinks and Crucible industrial arts demonstrations highlighting glass blowing, glass fusing, glass cold working, machining and kinetic arts.
Taking over four blocks of the Historic Old Oakland District, the Beer Festival will feature beer tastings, live music showcasing local bands, delicious eats from neighborhood restaurants, a parklet, free bike parking, and other family friendly activities.
NIMBY, the Bay Area DIY industrial art space whose motto – “Refuse to live vicariously” – is a perfect rallying cry for the Maker Revolution, is holding a fundraiser on October 16th. NIMBY parties are notorious for their boundless eclecticism, packing their vast space with live performers, interactive fire art, giant nose-picking machines and an array of other, far less-easily described entertainments and divertissements. – from Laughing Squid
Come enjoy the wealth of talented musicians, artists, and performers the Bay Area has to offer! The Festival will feature four areas and stages hosting local performers and a variety of activities and musical genres.
The Harvest moon is a symbol of blessing and abundance for many cultures. Similar to tea parties, these moon viewing parties are occasions for sharing food and stories while enjoying what is considered the most beautiful moon of the year. Telescopic viewing provided by EastBay Astronomical Society.
Come celebrate the raising of the United Nations flag at Jack London Square in Oakland to celebrate the 65th anniversary of humanitarian and peacekeeping work by the United Nations. With 2010 declared International Year of Youth, featured guests will include Oakland JROTC, Oakland Interfaith Youth Gospel Choir, and San Jose award-winner Kathy Pham.
Help break the World Record for the Largest Simultaneous Dance to Michael Jackson’s “Thriller.” They’ll dress you up as a zombie, slap some makeup to deaden that face and show you the moves. At 4 p.m., along with thousands all over the world, the dance starts.
Dia de Los Muertos (Day of the Dead) is a fabulous one-day celebration of ancestors, deceased loved ones and community. This year’s commemoration of “Celebrating the Spirit of Community” will be a gigantic event loaded with activities and displays for the entire family to enjoy! The festival will be held between 33rd Ave. and 37th Ave. on East 12th St., as well as in the Fruitvale Village. (see my post from last year’s festival)
Celebrate do-it-yourselfness! This year’s faire features rockets and robots, DIY science and technology, urban farming and sustainability, alternative energy, bicycles, unique hand-made crafts, music and local food, and educational workshops and installations.
Native plant experts will be available all day to help shoppers pick appropriate plants for their specific planting areas. This year’s plant sale will feature workshops and live music throughout the day to celebrate completion of the nursery’s expanded shady propagation and growing area and new teaching circle.
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