Random Cards

Handmade Valentine Card ...

2012-02-11T09:42:00.000-08:00

I rescued this darling hand made Valentines card from a dumpster years ago, when Ivor's family was emptying and cleaning out his house.

Ivor was an engineer, as you can see in the detailed work he put into this Valentine to his adored wife Mildred in 1931.

It appears he had a sense of humor as well!

This line is red.
This one is blue.
I am well fed,
And so are you.
To my Valentine

Hand and Heart ... PFF

2012-02-09T07:25:00.000-08:00

This handmade postcard caught my eye - tucked into the bottom of a bin at the Goodwill Outlet Store ... I just HAD to buy it!

I can't imagine why someone would have given away this beautiful art/postcard/heart, but their loss is MY gain!

To see postcards from around the world, visit Beth's blog "The Best Hearts Are Crunchy" - and join us for "Postcard Friendship Friday"!

To see hearts from around the world, visit "Random Hearts" - and share YOUR heart on "Guest Heart Thursday"!

Willamette River, Oregon

2012-01-20T16:15:00.000-08:00

This aerial view of the Willamette River in Oregon is how we usually see this river. It's hard to imagine what Beth and her family are seeing as this usually peaceful river steps over its banks and invades towns along it's path.

As Beth mentioned in her PFF post, her town of Independence is in danger of being flooded over by the rising waters of the Willamette River.

My thoughts and prayers are with people all over my home state, and indeed all over the world, who are dealing with disasters and the aftermath of disasters.

I almost feel guilty being safe, warm and happy here where I live!!!

Join Beth over at "The Best Hearts Are Crunchy" for Postcard Friendship Friday!

Yverdon Souvenir Postcard - PFF

2012-01-13T08:53:00.001-08:00

I found this postcard, along with several others of the same area and time frame, in a bin at the Goodwill Outlet Store nearly 10 years ago. I couldn't believe someone would give away these treasures!!!

I wish I knew the story behind this card ... how it came to be at a thrift store in Oregon over a hundred years after it was printed ... a world away ...

When I researched "Yverdon - Place de l'Hotel de ville", I found the following picture ...

It was posted by Marc on his blog "Allo, t'es ou?". I love how the present day building contrasts with the 1900 version on the postcard!

To see postcards from around the world, visit "The Best Hearts Are Crunchy" - and join us for Postcard Friendship Friday!

Greetings from Hog Country ... PFF

2012-01-06T16:23:00.000-08:00

I found this postcard in a box of stuff my friend Mona wanted me to get rid of.
THIS one I just couldn't throw away!!!
Sorry, Mona!

Jim & Mona
Greetings from Hog Country, here's a picture of my newest girlfriend. Hot looker aint she? Big (censored) too. Better go cause the curtains going up on yet another
Katfish Family Presentations
1990
Overindulgence
Tour

As I recall, he almost didn't come back because he was having so much fun in Iowa!

I lost track of Katfish ...
Mona moved to Idaho, and I haven't heard from her in years ...
Jim lost his battle with the bottle and died of liver failure 5 years ago ...

But boy did they know how to party!!!

To see postcards from around the world, visit The Best Hearts Are Crunchy and join us for "Postcard Friendship Friday".

Happy New Year !

2012-01-01T07:29:00.000-08:00

I'm not sure how I ended up with this card - but I'm sure glad I found it ... it's one of the very few New Years cards I have!

Happy New Year!!!

Please join us over at Al's "Sunday Scans" - show us what YOU scan in 2012!!!
The January link is now open!!!

Also ... please join us over at "The Best Hearts Are Crunchy" - for "Postcard Friendship Friday!"

Happy New Year - PFF!

2011-12-30T08:41:00.001-08:00

This is another postcard I found in a dumpster years ago ...
It is addressed to "Cousin Tina" from "John C. Callahan".

If you look carefully, you will see a heart in one of the flowers!

To see postcards from around the world, visit "The Best Hearts Are Crunchy", and join us for POSTCARD FRIENDSHIP FRIDAY!

If you have found a heart, be sure to link up with "Random Hearts" - and share YOUR heart on GUEST HEART THURSDAY!

Merry Christmas!

2011-12-23T17:17:00.000-08:00

I found this old postcard in a dumpster years ago - it is one of the few Christmas postcards I have.

I wish everyone a joyous and blessed Christmas, and a happy new year!

To see postcards from around the world, visit "The Best Hearts Are Crunchy" - and join us for Postcard Friendship Friday!

Christmas Card - Germany, 1988

2011-12-14T11:01:00.001-08:00

Some of my most favorite Christmas memories came from Germany ... where we lived for 3 years while my (ex) was stationed (US Army) in Kirchgoens.

I loved everything about Germany, but most of all the country during the Christmas season.

I had no idea Grammie kept this card, but I'm so glad she did.

If you have scanned something, be sure to link it up to Al's "Sunday Scans"!

A Postcard to Warm You

2011-12-09T07:53:00.001-08:00

I couldn't resist posting this summery postcard for Beth's Postcard Friendship Friday. It's just that I'm so COLD - and I was hoping this would help me feel warmer!

Um, it's not working. I think my toes need to go back under the blankets!

This is one of several postcards I picked up at the Frankfurt Zoo back in 1988 or so ... it was a wonderful trip and we had so much fun!!!

Christmas Card - Grammie

2011-12-07T07:33:00.000-08:00

I found this card in Grammie's papers ...
I'm not sure who Paul Deb and Bobbi Marc are, but they loved Grammie and that's all that matters!

Jackalope - Postcard Friendship Friday

2011-12-02T05:01:00.000-08:00

I've heard of these for years ... and no matter how hard I've tried, I've never actually seen one in the wild.
The elusive Jackalope!

The back reads "Also often called the Antelabbit, this, the most amazing of all desert animals is reputed to be a cross between a Jack Rabbit and an Antelope. Rumor has it that the Jackalope sings at night, in a voice that sounds almost human."

I found this postcard in Grammie's papers ... I don't think she actually believed the Jackalope existed ... but she was on a trip and sent this to her beloved husband who was unable to go with her. Her words brought tears to my eyes ...

"Dearest Honey, we are now in New Mexico. Plan to head today to the Grand Canyon, and up through Utah and on home. Probly won't make it untill Monday. The air is sure healthy feeling. Well I've enjoyed this trip but will be glad to get home. I miss you. Oodles of love Your Wife."

To see postcards from around the world, visit Beth over at "The Best Hearts Are Crunchy" - and join us for Postcard Friendship Friday!

It's Someone's Birthday Today!!!

2011-11-24T11:51:00.000-08:00

I just found out ...
On this beautiful day ...
A wonderful lady celebrates ...

A birthday!!!

So join me in wishing
Dorothy of COFFEEDOFF'S COFFEE BREAK a
Happy Birthday!!!

Full of joy and HEART!!!

To see more hearts from around the world, visit "Random Hearts" - and share YOUR heart on Guest Heart Thursday!

OOPS Postcard

2011-11-21T12:08:00.001-08:00

I can only imagine that the person who discovered the "mistake" they made ... probably had a really bad day.

I would have thought it was kind of funny ... in another age when identity theft wasn't prevalent, and you could feel safe in your own mailbox!

But it's interesting that this wonderful charitable organization used the mistake to solicit funds!!! At least SOMETHING good came out of their "oops" - besides a fun postcard!

A "Sweet" Postcard - PFF!

2011-11-18T08:09:00.000-08:00

I found this "sweet" postcard in a box of papers I have had for a long time.

Doesn't it look yummy?

To see postcards from around the world, join us over at "The Best Hearts Are Crunchy" - for Postcard Friendship Friday!

To see hearts from around the world, visit "Random Hearts" - and share YOUR heart on Guest Heart Thursday!

There is still time to join Al's November meme - "Sunday Scans"! If you have scanned something, please join us!!!

Fort Stevens Historic Area Postcard - PFF

2011-11-11T16:40:00.000-08:00

I couldn't find a postcard for Veterans Day ...
Until I found this one.
These military "relics" were once state-of-the-art defenses for the West coast of the US.
Now abandoned.

I honor and appreciate all veterans ...
For their service ...
For the sacrifices they made ...
And are still making.

I thank you.

To see postcards from around the world, visit Beth at "The Best Hearts Are Crunchy", and join us for Postcard Friendship Friday!

A Card For You!

2011-11-09T15:40:00.001-08:00

Happy Happy Happy Day!

St. John's Newfoundland - Postcard

2011-11-07T07:16:00.000-08:00

St. John's Newfoundland
View from Signal Hill. Queen's Battery in foreground - St. John's Harbor in background.

Message reads:
Hi folks, greetings from the east to the west. Decided to do Newfoundland this year. It's a lovely rugged country & we are enjoying our stay. Weather a bit cool in the 60's but pleasant. Enjoying our new hard top fold out trailer especially in this weather. Hope you are having a good summer.
Pam & Ed

This is another postcard in my collection ... but I'm not sure how it got there; just a little bit of fun I picked up along the way!

Missing You ... PFF

2011-11-04T06:46:00.000-07:00

I came across this postcard in a box of letters and papers that had been left beside the recycle bin at my old storage unit.

I hope Candice got together with her parents for Thanksgiving, that her car got fixed, and that she was able to work out her relationship with "Lamont" (another story entirely - and I think he was the reason mom and dad were so worried!).

To see postcards from around the globe, visit Beth over at "The Best Hearts Are Crunchy" - and join us for Postcard Friendship Friday!

To see hearts from around the world, visit "Random Hearts" - and share YOUR heart on Guest Heart Thursday!

Pink Flamingos with Cool Glasses

2011-11-03T06:11:00.001-07:00

Aren't these flamingos awesome?

Especially the guy with the heart-shaped glasses ...

This card is part of the "William Payne" collection I found at the Goodwill Outlet Store last month.

To see hearts from around the world, visit "Random Hearts" - and share YOUR heart on Guest Heart Thursday!

Curt Teich Postcard Folder #2 - Postcard Friendship Friday

2011-10-28T10:57:00.000-07:00

This is the second of the Postcard Folders I found at the Goodwill Outlet Store a couple of weeks ago.

Unlike the Aquarium folder I posted here, this one has a copyright date - MCMXLI (1941).

On the inside of the folder is a map of Arizona, as well as a short touristy description of what you should plan to include on your trip!

Inside are 9 postcard-sized cards, each with a picture printed on the front and back (18 beautiful scenes total).

They fold up, in a single row, accordion-style into the folder.

I feel so very fortunate to have found these beautiful cards before they were sent off to be shredded and/or incinerated.

To see postcards from around the world, visit Beth's "The Best Hearts Are Crunchy" - and join us for Postcard Friendship Friday!

Holiday Card Heart

2011-10-27T10:52:00.000-07:00

I know, I know - it's a little early to post Christmas cards ...

But I just HAD to post this one I found at the Goodwill a couple of weeks ago ... because I couldn't help but giggle at the HEART I found on this card.
Do you see it?
Hint: Look at the deer on the left ... with her delightful heart-shaped hind quarters!!!

To see hearts from around the world, visit "Random Hearts" - and share YOUR heart on Guest Heart Thursday!

"Pumpkin Farm"

2011-10-25T09:09:00.000-07:00

I found this wonderful card at the Goodwill Outlet Store a couple of years ago.
It is titled "Pumpkin Farm", and the pencil signature reads "Paul Alan Bennett".

"Daphne Dennis" sent this delightful card to her parents in October of 1995.
I'm not sure how it ended up at the Goodwill ... but I'm glad it did!!!

Curt Teich Postcard Folder - Postcard Friendship Friday

2011-10-15T15:35:00.000-07:00

I was at the Goodwill Outlet store yesterday, getting ready to leave. The workers were bringing out one more group of bins ... of course I had to stay to look them over.

Because we are not allowed to "shop" until all of the bins are in place, I glanced through the bins only. And saw ... POSTCARDS!!!

I parked in front of that particular bin, and noticed there was another lady doing the same thing.
We eyed each other, knowing this was "competition".
I pretended to be interested in something in a nearby bin ...
So did the other lady.

Finally the "OKAY"! I held back, waiting for the competition to make their move.
Then I reached for the postcards. SCORE!!!

Turns out the "competition" didn't give a hoot about the postcards - she was reaching for the sewing supplies.

This postcard folder is what I scored (along with a second one I will post about in the future).

From what I can tell, it is a "postcard folder" from the 1940's by Curt Teich & Co. out of Chicago.

On the inside of the folding envelope style postcard folder are nestled 9 cards - with 18 views of fishes of Hawaii - found at the Waikiki Aquarium.

I have never heard of "postcard folders" before ... it looks like I will be doing a bunch more research!

To see postcards from around the world, be sure to visit Beth over at "The Best Hearts Are Crunchy" - and join us for Postcard Friendship Friday!

Postcard from Chad, PFF

2011-09-02T07:59:00.000-07:00

This beautiful artwork is from Chad.

I found it in a box of Grammie's papers.
This beautiful card is dated 1994, and was given to LHBC (the former Ladd Hill Bible Church).
I'm not sure how Grammie ended up with it, except that she attended that church for many years, and probably pulled it out of the trash because she loved beautiful things.

There is a note on the front "I think the Martins" ... probably because there is no indication on the back as to who it was from!

To see postcards from around the world, visit "The Best Hearts Are Crunchy" - and join us for Postcard Friendship Friday!

1976 Postcard, Maine, USA

2011-08-27T07:18:00.000-07:00

I found this card at the Goodwill Outlet store quite a few years ago - it was part of a collection of cards someone had given away.

I chose this card today because it is the only card I have from the US East Coast ... and my heart and prayers are with the millions of people of the this area who are preparing for, and dealing with, the wrath of Hurricane Irene. Even as I was preparing this post, I heard on the news that the eye has made landfall in North Carolina.

My thoughts and prayers also are going out to those from around the world who are facing natural disasters, and those who are recovering from natural disasters.
These are strange times indeed.

To see postcards from around the world, visit Beth at "The Best Hearts Are Crunchy" - and join us for Postcard Friendship Friday!

"The Happiest Place on Earth"

2011-08-19T19:49:00.000-07:00

This is another Goodwill find from several years ago.
It makes me smile every time I look at it!

And don't you just love the "We love our RV" stamp on the top?

To see wonderful postcards from around the world, visit Beth over at "The Best Hearts Are Crunchy" - and join us for Postcard Friendship Friday!

And look - there are hearts on this card, do you see them?
A hint: Did you ever realize Mickey Mouse has a heart shaped face?
Then of course there's the heart on that delightful stamp on the back!

To see more hearts from around the world, visit "Random Hearts" - and share YOUR heart on Guest Heart Thursday!

International Correspondence - PFF

2011-08-12T08:06:00.000-07:00

I'm not sure how I ended up with this card ... but I fell in love with the beautifully written message ... especially "take heart and wait".

To see wonderful postcards from around the world, please visit Beth at "The Best Hearts Are Crunchy" - and join us for Postcard Friendship Friday!

Postcard from Pont-Aven

2011-07-01T12:01:00.000-07:00

This is another postcard found at Goodwill ... showing a tiny town in France called "Pont-Aven". It is known for it's "14 watermills, 15 houses", and is a very popular artist destination.

I especially love the rock work, and the reflections in the small stream.

To see more reflections from around the world, visit James' "Weekend Reflections".

To see postcards from around the world, visit Beth at "The Best Hearts Are Crunchy", and join us for Postcard Friendship Friday!

Jury Duty, Jury Duty, Jury Duty! Postcard Friendship Friday

2011-06-24T09:45:00.000-07:00

I'm not sure how I ended up with this in my postcard collection ...
I probably picked it up at the Goodwill, where I find so many interesting cards and things.

I am in two minds about being excused from jury duty ...
On one hand, I completely understand there are very valid reasons to be excused ... my mom got called for jury duty last week, and had to be excused because she is the main caregiver for my handicapped father. Things like illness, certain professional reasons, and even death are valid excuses (my grandmother got her first jury duty notice EVER - on the day of her funeral!).

On the other hand, jury duty can be entertaining, and everyone should try to sit on a jury panel at least once in their life. I've sat on 3 juries in the past, and always wanted to be called for a Grand Jury (no reason, just curiosity). I finally got called ... and had to be excused because at the time my ex and I were stationed in Georgia, and they refused to fly me back home to Oregon for the event!

Have you been called for jury duty? Have you ever sat on a jury? Was it boring ... or fun?
What kind of verdict was reached?
(2 "guilty", 1 "hung" for me!)
Let me know!

To see postcards from around the world, visit "The Best Hearts Are Crunchy", and join us for Postcard Friendship Friday!

Postcard - White Sands

2011-06-04T07:00:00.001-07:00

I've never been to the White Sands National Monument in New Mexico.
I never pictured a desert as having flowers and trees!
But it does - and they are beautiful.

But I still think it is probably a little hot for me ...

To see postcards from around the world, please visit Beth at "The Best Hearts Are Crunchy" - and join us for Postcard Friendship Friday!

Postcard - "Old Ironsides" - Postcard Friendship Friday

2011-05-27T10:37:00.000-07:00

USS Constitution, nicknamed "Old Ironsides" when cannon balls bounced off her oak planking. She was undefeated in 40 historic battles. Built in 1797, she is still a US Navy ship and a living museum of Naval history.

Happy Memorial Day.

To see postcards from around the world, visit Beth's "The Best Hearts Are Crunchy", and join us for Postcard Friendship Friday!

Hand Made Postcard - "Hand and Heart"

2011-05-26T13:54:00.000-07:00

This delightful handmade postcard combines two of my loves ... hearts and creativity.
I don't know who made it, as I found it at the Goodwill Surplus store several years ago.
I remember rescuing it from the bottom of a bin, ready to be sent out to be shredded, and I was happy to save it from destruction.

And whoever made it lived in Oregon!
Which isn't surprising, since that's where I found it!!!

To see hearts from around the world, visit "Random Hearts" - and share YOUR heart on Guest Heart Thursday!

Postcard - "Hugs and Kisses" (1)

2011-05-25T11:00:00.000-07:00

The only information listed on the back of this postcard is that this delightful picture was taken in 1964 by Elliott Erwitt in Krakow, Poland.

Because of the no right turn sign in the background, I am submitting this postcard to Lesley's "Signs, Signs" meme.

Because I had to scan this card in order to post it, I am also submitting this postcard to Al's "Sunday Scans" meme.

The card itself was published in 1998 as part of a 30-card book called "Hugs & Kisses" which I found at the Goodwill Surplus Store. There are only 18 cards left in the book, and I love thinking that someone actually used some of them!

Postcard - Nestle's Food For Infants

2011-05-15T20:33:00.000-07:00

This beautiful artwork is by Alphonse Mucha, 1897.
It has only been recently that I discovered his art, and I'm starting to see it everywhere!

The postcard itself was printed in 1986.

To see postcards from around the world, visit Beth's "The Best Hearts Are Crunchy", and join us for Postcard Friendship Friday!

Join us over at Al's for "Sunday Scans" - and show us YOUR old stuff!

Happy Easter - Postcard Friendship Friday

2011-04-22T07:03:00.001-07:00

I was lucky to find this postcard in a bin at the Goodwill Outlet Store ...

I can't believe someone would get rid of this beautiful Easter postcard!

To see postcards from around the world, visit Beth at "The Best Hearts Are Crunchy" - and join us for Postcard Friendship Friday!

Happy Easter

Easter Greetings - PFF and Sunday Scans

2011-04-03T07:02:00.000-07:00

When I was in Germany, one of the ladies I worked with gave me this card.
She was going to throw it away!!!

I love Easter cards ... no matter what language they are written in!

To see postcards from around the world, visit Beth at "The Best Hearts Are Crunchy", and join us for Postcard Friendship Friday.

And since this card was scanned, come check out "Al's Photography Blog" and his new meme Sunday Scans!

Easter Greetings - Postcard Friendship Friday

2011-03-25T11:34:00.000-07:00

One of the cards I found in Grammie's papers (rescued from the fire bin - ack!) is this beautiful Easter postcard.
It was never mailed, however the back has an inscription "Amelia - From Mother".

The front picture of flowers is cut separately, and held on with a tiny ribbon.
When you flip it open ...

It is a separate little card!

In doing some research, I have determined Amelia to be "Miss Amelia Falk", my Grampa Lester's cousin. She was born sometime in 1884 to Dietrich Falk and Sophie (Harms). From what I can tell, she never married, and was employed at "The Portland Hotel" in Portland, Oregon for many years.

It has been fun and exciting to be able to find out so much information about my family.

To see postcards from around the world, visit Beth at "The Best Hearts Are Crunchy", and join us for Postcard Friendship Friday!

Postcard - Reflections of the City of Roses ...

2011-03-18T07:56:00.000-07:00

I love postcards from places I recognize ... I am thrilled when I can look and say "I've been there!"

I don't know if I've been to this exact place in Portland, but it had to have been close by!

"Reflection of the City of Roses"

I thought this would be perfect for James' "Weekend Reflections" ...
And for Beth's "Postcard Friendship Friday" ...

Another Oregon Postcard - PFF

2011-03-11T07:23:00.000-08:00

Once again, the ocean.
My favorite place.

Our hearts and prayers are with the people of Japan, whose country was devastated, and is still being devastated, by an earthquake, tsunami, and now horrific natural gas fires.

To see postcards from around the world, visit Beth at "The Best Hearts Are Crunchy", and join us for Postcard Friendship Friday.

Haystack Rock - Postcard Friendship Friday

2011-02-25T14:04:00.000-08:00

I've been to Cannon Beach before ... but never during the sea sculpture contest!
But then again ... I've never been into large crowds.
That's why I usually try to go to the beach in the off-season.
When it's quiet.
And I have the beach all to myself.

But look at what I've been missing!!!

To see postcards from around the world, visit Beth at "The Best Hearts Are Crunchy", and join us for Postcard Friendship Friday!

Oregon Coast Postcard - Postcard Friendship Friday

2011-02-12T07:30:00.001-08:00

I wish I could say I have a huge file of Valentine's Postcards ...
But I don't.
So, in honor of Valentine's Day, I found a postcard of my favorite place in the world - the beach. The beach IS my Valentine - my Heart.

I hope you all have a wonderful Heart Day!

To see postcards from around the world, visit Beth at "The Best Hearts Are Crunchy", and wish her a HAPPY 50th hosting of POSTCARD FRIENDSHIP FRIDAY!

Postcard from Oregon Coast - PFF and GHT

2011-01-29T16:40:00.000-08:00

I absolutely love this postcard picture of this crabbing boat crossing the Yaquina Bay bar along the Oregon Coast - the green of the wave behind it is stunning. For you heart seekers, do you see the green heart in the wave?

If you have found a random heart, join "Random Hearts" - and share YOUR heart on Guest Heart Thursday!

To see postcards from around the world, visit Beth at "The Best Hearts Are Crunchy", and join us for Postcard Friendship Friday.

Heart Greeting Card - Guest Heart Thursday

2011-01-20T10:27:00.001-08:00

I was at the Goodwill Outlet store yesterday, digging through the bins, when this beautiful greeting card caught my eye.

It wasn't just the heart that I noticed - the colors are outstanding as well!

To see hearts from around the world, visit "Random Hearts" - and share YOUR heart on Guest Heart Thursday!

Oregon Coast Postcard - Postcard Friendship Friday

2011-01-15T10:12:00.001-08:00

This is where my heart and soul
Long to be ...
The beach.

"THE OREGON COAST: The Oregon Coast is replete with historic and scenic interest. The beauty of forest, mountains, waterfalls, rivers, lakes, wildflowers -- the endless march of surf. The Oregon Coast is a photographer's paradise."

So much said in this short paragraph - so much more when experienced in real life!

To see postcards from around the world, visit Beth at "The Best Hearts Are Crunchy" - and join us for Postcard Friendship Friday!

Christmas Wish List Postcard - PFF, Weekend Mailbox

2010-12-17T17:28:00.000-08:00

I can only imagine the list this little guy is writing to Santa ...

It probably goes something like this ...

Walnuts, filberts, peanuts, almonds, cashews ...

To see postcards from around the world, visit Beth at "The Best Hearts Are Crunchy" - and join us for Postcard Friendship Friday!

To see all things postal, visit Gemma at "Greyscale Territory" - and join us for Weekend Mailbox!

Wyoming Postcard - Postcard Friendship Friday

2010-12-10T19:08:00.001-08:00

I was at the Goodwill Surplus store yesterday when I found two old books in a plastic bag. I paid $1 for the bag, and was delighted when I got home and discovered what was inside ...

One book was an old family Bible - it's brittle leather cover flaking away in chunks - with hand written birth registries from 1874 to 1910 in the back ... and all kinds of treasures tucked between the pages ... from pressed flowers to church documents and old photographs.

The second book had no cover and was an old dictionary with even more treasures inside

The dictionary itself fascinated me because there are notes, additions, and corrections hand written on nearly every page. The previous owner was a true lover of words.

One of the treasures tucked away inside the dictionary was this old postcard - complete with notes about words and definitions ...

There were many other treasures to be found and eventually shared ... some of which I will be sharing on "Random Finds".

To see postcards from around the world, visit Beth at "The Best Hearts Are Crunchy" ... and join us for Postcard Friendship Friday!

To see all things postal, visit Gemma at "Greyscale Territory" ... and join us for Weekend Mailbox!

Camelot ... Postcard Friendship Friday, Weekend Mailbox

2010-10-24T09:31:00.000-07:00

When the world was innocent ...
And the dream was within reach ...
Or so we thought.

I love that Aunt Vicky sent postcards from her trip back east.
She really did have a wonderful time, and cared enough to share them with her nieces.
And me.

To see postcards from around the world, visit Beth's "The Best Hearts Are Crunchy", and join us for Postcard Friendship Friday!

I just had to sneak this one in. It was the best mailbox I've found in ages!
Straight from the doctor's office --
To you.

To see wonderful mailboxes and mail related posts from all over, please visit Gemma's Greyscale Territory - and join us for Weekend Mailbox!

Boston Postcard - Postcard Friendship Friday, Weekend Mailbox

2010-09-26T11:06:00.000-07:00

Ah the times of old sailing ships ...
They look fun and romantic, but I think I would probably have preferred to remain on dry land!

The USS Constitution (nicknamed "Old Ironsides") was built in 1797, and is still part of the US Navy fleet as a living museum of naval history.

How fun that Aunt Vicky got to see it!

To see postcards from around the world, join Beth of The Best Hearts Are Crunchy, and join us for Postcard Friendship Friday!

Someone got mail in this box once.
A long time ago!
I found this delightful bird house at my friend Howard's house.
Howard and his wife Freddie are wonderful people who love whimsical things.

To see mailboxes and all things postal, visit Gemma at Greyscale Territory - and join us for Weekend Mailbox!

Hells Canyon Dam - Postcard Friendship Friday/Weekend Mailbox

2010-09-17T09:32:00.000-07:00

The creases are still visible ...
From the journeys this card has been on ...
From somewhere ... to somewhere else ...
To the Goodwill ... then to me.

"The Snake River's most spectacular dam marks the beginning of the 32 mile Wild River Corridor. It is the last of 12 dams that produce two-thirds of the electricity generated by Idaho Power serving customers in a 20,000 square mile area."

If you have never visited the Snake River wilderness ... well, you should. Someday I will go back to visit this wild, raw, untamed natural area - it's been far too long.

To see postcards from around the world, visit Beth at The Best Hearts Are Crunchy - and join us for Postcard Friendship Friday.

And here is the REAL reason they call it "snail mail".
(Note the speed limit!)

To see mailboxes and all things postal from around the world, visit Gemma at Greyscale Territory - and join us for Weekend Mailbox.

Bonners Ferry Postcard - Postcard Friendship Friday, Weekend Mailbox

2010-07-24T08:02:00.000-07:00

I found this postcard, with several others, tucked into an old photo album that covered Grandma and Grampa G's trip to Arizona in 1981.

They made frequent references to Bonners Ferry, Idaho over the years I knew and loved them ... it's where they grew up. It's where they met and fell in love.

Someday I will go there.

To see postcards from around the world, visit Beth at The Best Hearts Are Crunchy - and join us for Postcard Friendship Friday.

And what a treat to pick up your postcards from this cute mailbox.
It matched the house it sat in front of ...

To see more mailboxes and all things postal, visit Gemma at Greyscale Territory - and join us for Weekend Mailbox.

Scissors Cutting - scherenschnitte

2010-07-21T10:14:00.000-07:00

The detail in this 'scissors cutting' work is amazingly beautiful.

"Scherenschnitte Design by Arlene France, Lititz, PA. The art of "Scherenschnitte", or scissors cutting, is an old German-Swiss art done originally by the religious orders and brought to the U.S. by the Pennsylvania-Dutch immigrants in the 1700's."

I just realized I should submit this to
Random Hearts - Guest Heart Thursday!

To see beautiful and amazing hearts from around the world, please click HERE!

Breakfast! - PFF and Weekend Mailbox

2010-07-17T10:13:00.000-07:00

If this wonderful postcard doesn't make you hungry ...
Then you must have already eaten breakfast!!!

And to think it's just an advertisement!

To see postcards from around the world, visit Beth at The Best Hearts Are Crunchy - and join in the fun of Postcard Friendship Friday!

To see all things postal, visit Gemma at Greyscale Territory - and join in the fun of Weekend Mailbox!

Postcard - Missing You ... Guest Heart Thursday

2010-07-15T08:41:00.000-07:00

I found this postcard, dated 1993, in the garbage at my storage unit.
Of course I had to dig it out!!!

I love the bear holding a heart behind his back.

Addressed to Candice from her parents.
Sending their love.

To see hearts from around the world, visit Random Hearts - and find a heart to post for Guest Heart Thursday!

Grand Canyon - PFF, Weekend Mailbox

2010-07-09T11:35:00.001-07:00

I have not yet had the opportunity to visit the Grand Canyon National Park.

I am glad, however, that in the United States, we have chosen to secure our national treasures forever - and hope that we will continue to do so!

To see postcards from around the world, please visit Beth at The Best Hearts Are Crunchy - and join us for Postcard Friendship Friday!

To see entries of all things postal, please visit Gemma at Greyscale Territory - and join us for Weekend Mailbox!

2010-07-06T09:38:00.000-07:00

L.M.S. Stanier 'Jubilee' Class 4-6-0
Now no longer in existence.
No. 45562 'Alberta' belonged to a class of
190 engines produced by
Sir William Stanier.

8/20/77 - Steffi & Ken on a trip to London, where it was cold and raining.
I had to smile at one of their biggest obstacles -
driving on the opposite side of the road,
in the opposite side of the car.

Haute Ville, Quebec, Canada - Postcard Friendship Friday/Weekend Mailbox

2010-06-25T17:54:00.000-07:00

Haute Ville, Uppertown, Quebec, Canada

"Upper Town, Quebec, is modern Quebec and includes an exclusive residential area, the Provincial Government Buildings, several large and important commercial establishments and the Provincial Museum. It also includes the Plains of Abraham which is today a beautifully developed park."

Folkar - Company of Canada Limited Drummond Bldg, Montreal, Canada, Copyright Canada 1929 Reg'd USA Patent Office"

This is a very interesting postcard to me. It has perforations around 3 edges, and apparently folds open - so the writer can have an entire sheet for correspondence. If you click on the photos to enlarge, you will see the perforation holes.

I don't remember how these came to be in my collection, but I have a total of 3 - all from Canada.

To see mailboxes and all things postal, visit Gemma at Greyscale Territory - and join us for Weekend Mailbox!

To see postcards from around the world, visit Beth at The Best Hearts Are Crunchy - and join us for Postcard Friendship Friday!

1987 USPS - Postcard Friendship Friday, Weekend Mailbox

2010-06-18T10:04:00.000-07:00

To see postcards from around the world, please visit Beth at The Best Hearts are Crunchy - and join us for Postcard Friendship Friday!

To see mailboxes and mail related things from around the world, please visit Gemma at Greyscale Territories - and join us for Weekend Mailbox!

This postcard was put out by the United States Postal Service (USPS). The design was also used as a postage stamp.

"The Best Friend, built for the Charleston & Hamburg Railroad in South Carolina in 1830, was the first locomotive to draw a train in America. The stamp design was based on artwork by Richard Leech."

Item 8438 © 1987 U.S. Postal Service. All Rights Reserved.

Happy Birthday, Sissie!

2010-06-14T06:30:00.001-07:00

Happy Birthday, Beth!!!

I know you're older than me, so that would make you what ... 30?
Snicker.
How many years ago was THAT???

Postcard from Portland - Postcard Friendship Friday and Weekend Mailbox

2010-06-13T11:54:00.000-07:00

Postcard Friendship Friday is hosted by Beth over at The Best Hearts are Crunchy.

Weekend Mailbox is hosted by Gemma over at Greyscale Territory.

These are two fun memes that somehow belong together!

This weekend is Portland's party weekend.
The Rose Festival!

I didn't make it this year, but watched the parade on TV. Does that count?

Blue Room, New Orleans - Postcard Friendship Friday

2010-06-04T09:10:00.001-07:00

The Blue Room
at The Roosevelt, New Orleans

The Roosevelt was built in 1893 as "The Grunewald", renamed The Roosevelt Hotel in 1923 ...
It became "The Fairmont Hotel" in 1965.

The hotel was severely damaged by Hurricane Katrina in 2005, and closed
indefinitely. It was restored in 2009 at a final restoration
cost of $170 million. It was then renamed the "Roosevelt", and re-opened to the
public on July 1, 2009.

photo credit: DAVID GRUNFELD/THE TIMES-PICAYUNE

This is the Blue Room at the Roosevelt today.

It's probably just me, but I think I liked it better in the postcard image!

To see postcards from around the world, please visit Beth at The Best Hearts Are Crunchy - and participate in Postcard Friendship Friday!

2010-06-03T11:50:00.000-07:00

Jackson Square, New Orleans

Whenever I see items from New Orleans, I think of my friend Trina, who lives and works there. Her entire family is from New Orleans.

Trina lost everything she owned during Hurricane Katrina, and had to start over.
I think of her often, and pray for her and her family.
They've been through rough times,
and are still the best of friends.

God Bless You, Trina!

1939 New York World's Fair - Postcard Friendship Friday

2010-05-28T16:17:00.000-07:00

Another postcard from the group I found at Goodwill sometime back.

It depicts the US Steel building at the 1939 New York World's Fair.

The back reads as follows: "A striking architectural feature of this 66-foot high stainless steel building is the use of the structural steel members on the exterior as a basic element of design. These members, weighing 350 tons and meeting 72 feet above the ground, painted blue, conceal lights which are directed against the polished dome at night. Visitors will see a dramatic presentation of the world of tomorrow which steel helped to build. Design was by Walter Derwin Teague. Architects York and Sawyer."

I tried to get more information on the fate of this building ... whether it still stands or not ... but the only information I could find said that most of the metal buildings built for the 1939 New York World's Fair were dismantled upon completion of the fair, and made into bullets and other items to be used by the military during WWII.

If anyone has further information about this building, please let me know!

To see postcards from around the world, please visit Beth's blog - The Best Hearts Are Crunchy. Beth is host of "Postcard Friendship Friday". Come join in the fun!

First Day Covers - More From Grandma G!

2010-05-27T10:25:00.000-07:00

These FDC's (First Day Covers) are also known as FDI (First Day Issue).
Grandma G collected these covers.
I didn't know until I was going through some of her papers.

I find that despite my preference for postcards that have actually been sent, these are growing on me.

Like this top one from 1966 - encouraging us to "Visit the USA".
I love these old pictures!

This similar FDC from 1967 also encourages us to "Visit the USA", but doesn't have the pictures that make it more interesting (to me).

This FDC from 1962 features a 4 cent Lincoln profile.
And reminds us which side of the card we're supposed to address!

This is one of my favorite FDC's in Grandma G's collection.
The pictures on the reverse side feature "Rodeo", "Mississippi Riverboat", the "Grand Canyon", and "Monument Valley" as being great tourism destinations for 1972.

First Day Covers - Postcard Friendship Friday

2010-05-21T14:40:00.000-07:00

Grandma G. collected stamps.
Not just any stamps, but First Day Covers.
Or FDC's.

I was going through some of her papers the other day,
and found the stash ...

Probably 100 FDC's -
Mostly regular envelopes.

But a whole bunch of them were these postcards.

The sad part is ... they were not addressed to anybody.
Beautiful, but useless.
Well, to me.
Because I love the stories told on postcards,
even just the "to" and "from" part.

Postcards are more than just canceled stamps, in my opinion.
They are art, they are beauty,
they are HISTORY.
They are real people,
They are emotions long forgotten; now remembered.

Don't get me wrong, I really like these FDC's,
Maybe someday I'll donate them to someone's collection.

But I like the other ones a little better.

To see beautiful and nostalgic postcards from around the world, please visit Beth at her wonderful blog "The Best Hearts Are Crunchy" - and join in on Postcard Friendship Friday!!!

Pakenham Oaks, New Orleans - Postcard Friendship Friday

2010-05-14T17:15:00.001-07:00

Pakenham Oaks, New Orleans

Planted in 1762 by by PierreDenis Delaronde, who owned a plantation home on the property.
The home burned down in 1876, but the live oaks still line the road, which is now paved.

If you enlarge this, you can read the information about these beautiful and majestic live oak trees - and the Battle of New Orleans (War of 1812).

To see postcards from around the world, please visit Beth's blog "The Best Hearts Are Crunchy". Beth hosts the delightful Postcard Friendship Friday!

Happy PFF everybody!!!

HAPPY BIRTHDAY FOREVER JANN!!!

2010-05-13T09:26:00.000-07:00

I hear it's a very special day for a very special lady ...

I hope you are having a hip, hop, happy day!

It's Jann's Birthday!

Let's help her celebrate the 29th Anniversary of her 29th Birthday!!!
Please visit her over at Forever Jann and wish her a
Wonderful Day!!!

Prison Art #4

2010-05-10T12:24:00.000-07:00

This is my favorite of Lamont's drawings that I found ...

Lamont and Candice are still developing their relationship ...

I sense a little trouble on this horizon though ... he is terribly bored in prison, yet refuses to work in the chow hall because the pay is too little ... and he has asked Candice for money.

But still, they are trying to build something here ...

Postcard, Expo '86 - Postcard Friendship Friday

2010-05-07T17:59:00.000-07:00

Sally Takolik, Age 9 of Spence Bay, N.W.T. Canada

Artwork designed for Expo '86
Northwest Territories Canada

To see more postcards from around the world, please visit Beth's delightful blog "The Best Hearts are Crunchy", where she hosts Postcard Friendship Friday!

Prison Art #3

2010-05-06T07:33:00.001-07:00

Lamont drew this for Candice, telling her it "took him a few days".
The colors and details of the flowers ... wow.

The tentative romance continues!

Prison Art #2

2010-05-05T06:55:00.001-07:00

I wish I had these bubbles - blowing hearts.

Lamont and Candice knew each other for quite a while (5 years), and were attracted to each other even back then.
But Lamont was married. I'm not sure about Candice.

While Lamont was in prison, their long distance romance continued to blossom.
They exchanged photos ...

Prison Art #1

2010-05-03T19:35:00.001-07:00

The year was 1994.
Candice was a young lady living in California,
But she spent a lot of time in Oregon.

Lamont was incarcerated at Eastern Oregon Correctional Institution in Pendleton.

He spent his spare time writing to Candice, and drawing cards for her.

He was married to Katheryn, but she didn't want to wait for him to get out of prison ...

I don't know what happened to this romance.
I do know that about 10 years later I found a bunch of cards and letters in the trash can at my storage unit. I saw the artwork, and was entranced.

According to Vinelink, Lamont is still on parole. Somewhere in Lane County.

I wonder if he still draws beautiful cards.
I wonder if Candice is with him ...

I will probably never know.

Postcard, "Bad Dog" - Ay Tay

2010-05-03T07:49:00.000-07:00

Meet Ay-Tay

This is the final postcard from the Goodwill-rescued series "Bad Dog"

But don't despair ... my next series is going to be -
Prison Art!

Prison Art is a group of cards and notes from Lamont to Candice.
Candice lived in California.
Lamont was incarcerated at Eastern Oregon Correctional Institution.
The year was 1994 ...

Postcard, "Bad Dog"

2010-05-02T06:52:00.000-07:00

Meet Oakley and Tober -

Awe, they don't look like Bad Dogs to me -

"From the NY Times Best Seller 'Bad Dog'"

I only have one more of the "Bad Dog" series found at Goodwill a while back.
I think I'm going to miss them!

Old Postcard, Sandpoint, Idaho - Postcard Friendship Friday!

2010-04-30T07:08:00.000-07:00

"Two Mile Bridge Across Lake Pend D'Oreille, Sandpoint, Idaho"
"27"

Another Goodwill rescue ... probably because this card is a bit tattered.

When the picture is enlarged, you can see three very old style cars parked in the middle of the bridge, and people standing outside these cars - looking at the view.

To see postcards from around the world, please visit The Best Hearts Are Crunchy for Postcard Friendship Friday!

Happy PFF!

Postcard, "Bad Dog"

2010-04-29T08:58:00.000-07:00

Meet Basia.

Another of my Goodwill rescued card series titled
"From the NY Times Bestseller Bad Dog".

Disney Postcard, Cereal Box

2010-04-28T08:20:00.000-07:00

Hesitant hands.
Holding scissors much too big for them.
The lure of the postcard too big to care.

Do you remember these?
I do!

Postcard, Oregon Coast. Sigh.

2010-04-27T07:39:00.000-07:00

I have many postcards of the Oregon Coast.
It is my favorite place in the world.

This particular scene shows Cannon Beach.
Double sigh.

Postcard, "Bad Dog"

2010-04-24T20:36:00.000-07:00

Isn't Elvis adorable?

Another card from a collection I rescued from Goodwill.

"NY Times Bestseller - Bad Dog".

Rhododendrons and Mt. Hood - Happy PFF!

2010-04-23T07:25:00.000-07:00

The postcard is a bit dated ...
But the beauty remains the same!

To see beautiful postcards from around the world, please visit The Best Hearts Are Crunchy.

Thank you sissie, for hosting Postcard Friendship Friday!

Postcard, San Francisco

2010-04-19T11:07:00.000-07:00

Lombard Street, San Francisco, California, USA

"The crookedest street in the world"!

Athens Postcard - Happy PFF (a little late!)

2010-04-17T07:32:00.000-07:00

Athens - The Unknown Soldiers Grave. A very powerful, very moving scene.

I found this postcard (with a bunch more!) at the Goodwill surplus store. I had to rescue them, as the next step for all "paper" not sold is the shredding machine.

Altered Postcard - How cute!

2010-04-15T08:25:00.001-07:00

Just a plain pink postcard, with white flowers.
Someone added the adorable sticker.
Making the plain ... into beautiful.

Yep, beautiful.

Another Cute Doggie Postcard

2010-04-12T18:18:00.000-07:00

From "Bad Dog", which I guess was a book.
This delightful little pooch is named Macy.

Definitely a "Bad Dog".
In a really cute sort of way!

Postcard, "Bad Dogs" - Happy PFF

2010-04-09T06:32:00.000-07:00

From The NY Times Bestseller "Bad Dogs"

Isn't this just adorable?
And he does kind of resemble a llama ......

To see more beautiful, interesting and adorable postcards from around the world, please visit The Best Hearts are Crunchy's ... Postcard Friendship Friday.

1949 postcard - Peterson & Dering

2010-04-05T09:07:00.000-07:00

This is a 1949 advertisement card from Peterson & Dering ... rose growers and researchers in Scappoose, Oregon. It apparently came with their catalogs.

If you enlarge the top photo, you will see someone's dream list - names of roses they wanted to someday buy. It is hard to read, having been written in pencil.

I could find no listing for Peterson & Dering today. Most of what is written about them was written back in the 50's. I did discover that they were best known for their wonderful catalogs. They in fact were recognized for beautifully describing the scent of their roses, in an age when so many companies were developing roses with very little scent, who relied on the beauty of the plant alone.

I love the scent of roses. I would never buy a rose that didn't smell like a rose!!!

Happy Easter

2010-04-04T15:50:00.001-07:00

Another card I rescued from (Ivor's) dumpster some years back.
There are other cards to "Aunt Tena", so I am assuming she was a relative.
I just love these old cards!

Postcard, Maryhill Museum of Art, Happy PFF!

2010-04-02T08:48:00.001-07:00

High on a bluff in Washington State, overlooking the mighty Columbia River and Oregon on the other side ... this amazing art museum has a wonderful, but sad, history.

The museum is housed in a grand mansion, built (1907) on over 6,000 acres of property owned by Sam Hill, a wealthy businessman and Quaker pacifist who planned on founding a Quaker agricultural community on the estate. The project received its name from his adored daughter, Mary Hill. His fondest wish was that his family would live here.

Unfortunately, his wife hated the area - and Mr. Hill realized she would never live there. He gave up his dream. He agreed that it should become a museum of art.

In 1926 the museum of art was dedicated.

Even then, problems surrounded the estate, mostly involving irrigation and location.

The museum finally opened to the general public in 1940.
Unfortunately, Samuel Hill passed away in 1931, and never saw this final triumph.

“Sometimes the things dreamers do seem incomprehensible to others,
and the world wonders why dreamers do not see the way others do”

— Queen Marie of Romania
at the dedication of the unfinished Maryhill Museum of Art, 1926

1986 Postcard, Nestle's Food for Infants

2010-04-01T17:48:00.000-07:00

Nestle's Food
For Infants

The original artwork was done in 1897.
The postcard was published in 1986.

I had no idea Nestle marketed baby milk products.

1980's Postcard, tulips and windmill

2010-03-31T07:02:00.000-07:00

A beautiful scene of tulips in bloom, a windmill in the background ...

Hah! Betcha thought this card was from Holland!

I did.
Until I read the back.

"Washington Bulb Co., Inc., Mount Vernon, Washington"
Largest grower of tulips, daffodils and irises in the United States.

"Printed in Italy"
Smile.

1996 Postcard - Thatched Cottage

2010-03-30T09:51:00.000-07:00

I love the lines of this beautiful thatched "cottage".
I also love the blue accents, and the green of the garden.

July, 1996

My favorite quote from this card is the part that says --
"... with all the walking and hiking, I sleep good, not long, but good"
It sounds like they had a wonderful time in "PONT AVON".

St. John the Baptist - Happy PFF!

2010-03-26T09:20:00.000-07:00

St. John the Baptist

Velazquez, Rodriquez de Silva Y., 1599-1660
The Art Institute of Chicago

I ponder the expression of St. John in this painting.
Maybe the artist reflected this great sadness
of St. John - because the artist knew, as told in history,
that St. John would have been about this age (early 30's) when he was beheaded.

1984 Postcard from Vienna

2010-03-24T06:42:00.000-07:00

I really love the line in this postcard that says ...

"There is so much to see, but I enjoy just relaxing and going about haphazardly."

I can so relate!!!

1939 Postcard, Sitka, Alaska - Happy PFF!

2010-03-19T10:12:00.000-07:00

I wonder what this same shot would look like today ...
It sure was pristine back in 1939!

Mailed on the 4th of July, 1939 from Juneau, Alaska

To see more postcards from around the world, please visit Friendly Postcard Friday over at The Best Hearts are Crunchy!

1916 Correspondence Card - Happy PFF!

2010-03-12T07:32:00.000-08:00

I love the way this card is addressed - to Master Ivor Davies,
Molalla, Oregon

"Dear Ivor, how are you enjoying your vacation? I know you are having a splendid time playing in the creek in your back yard. I'd like to go wading with ..."

you ..."

Best regards to your mother & father.
Miss Stuart

Please click here to see more postcards from around the world!!!

Not a postcard, but still a card

2010-03-09T07:14:00.000-08:00

St. George and the Dragon, c. 1438
Bernardo Martorell
The Art Institute of Chicago

A true masterpiece.

Holy Cow!

2010-03-07T10:03:00.000-08:00

Isn't he just 'adora"bull"'?

The More Things Change ...

2010-03-06T08:36:00.000-08:00

With the exception of the "typewriter" part, this postcard could have been written today.
I had no idea we had this issue in 1982!

A New Dawn - Happy PFF!

2010-03-05T11:40:00.000-08:00

A New Dawn - 12/96
by Fayme Harper

"Dear Bonita,
I was in the mood to paint today.
Then one thing lead to another & now I can share my art.
Not bad for a day's work!
The sun was originally pale orange.
Happy New Year - Fayme"

Card - Wedding

2010-03-01T11:50:00.000-08:00

"The Wedding"
Anonymous, 19th Century

I have to say this is one of my most favorite wedding cards ever!