Downsizing when your down and out

The yard sale route is just not my preference.  It's a lot of work with little return when you reach the age of 50.  So, I've been exploring other avenues to clean out the closets, basement and overflowing cabinets.  I've found the the "collectibles" have been greatly reduced in value, thanks to online auctions.  What has been profitable is our local antique mall!  It costs me $40 a month to rent a small space.  I rotate the vintage items in and out about twice a  month.  So far, I've never failed to receive a check!  It's fun to chat with others who remember life without cell phones too!  Check out your local areas and if you have a mind to clean out your vintage clutter, you may find a new hobby.

One tip ... don't over price.  I price glass and pottery at 1/2 the value I see on the online auction sites.  I don't want it and would rather have $8 for a vase then something more to dust.  Plus I don't have to pack it up and ship it by doing online auctions!

Our Lady of Lourdes Shrine Ohio

We attended Mass today in the outside Grotto of Our Lady of Lourdes Shrine, Euclid Ohio.  Arriving early we walked the Rosary path lined with tablets depicting the Rosary.  The statues in this area are enlightening and one cannot help but stop to admire and ponder the mysteries.  The grotto has a fountain where you can drink from the water and ask for blessings. There is a small area where testimonials of healing are shown.  It is very touching and moving to see so many crutches and braces sent as confirmation of a healing.

After church I continued to view the wonderful grounds and went inside the chapel.  Inside are wonderful stained glass panels.  A small gift shop there has about every Saint and Prayer card you could want and at very reasonable prices. This is a very peaceful and prayerful trip to make and the area is full of things to do.  The locals are very friendly as well.  The community of Euclid, Ohio is very blessed to have this wonderful place in their hometown.

The Holden Arboretum

Today I walked the Gnome exihibit at Holden Arboretum in Kirtland, Ohio.  The exhibit of life size gnomes pulled me in and made for a long enjoyable stroll.  The trails were fairly easy to follow and soon I found myself at the Blueberry pond.  A young boy had just pulled a baby snapping turtle from the pond and was closely examining him in his net.  The boys mom quickly made him release the baby turtle and it scampered off into the pond to wash the dusty gravel from his back; but not before I was able to snap him!

I strolled along the paths to see so many flowers, plants and trees that my camera battery finally gave up. The Gnome exhibit is a fun trail for kids and parents who can keep up. It was fairly easy to walk, for an old woman like me. They do have a riding tour for those who would rather take it easy. This gnome will greet you at the entrance.  If his foot looks a little wet, well the park allows dogs.  A young couple had their dog there just before I snapped this photo.  Imagine their dismay when they looked down to see Fido releaving himself on the gnome.  They quickly looked around to see who might be looking and made a run for it. 

Overall this was a great trip and I would highly recommend as an inexpensive day trip in Ohio.