Auction Day - I lose my iPhone - and trace it again

An early start today as we were delivering a chest of drawers to a buyer in Bucks. before going on to a big auction of antique furniture in Hertfordshire. This entails lots of essential close inspections of whats available, determining what one would really like and having a contingency list in the event of  not being successful in our first choice. Bidding is fast and furious and it is all too easy to end up with something that requires alot of work if it isnt inspected carefully beforehand.

It is also important to see the potential of a piece. While 'brown' furniture is no longer popular it is still solidly made and is often of far better quality than a modern day reproduction. Frequently, the detail to these pieces will be enhanced when painted and contributes to the overall transformation of an otherwise dull item of furniture.

Once the auction had drawn to an end at about 3.30pm, all that was left to do was to load it all on to our Transit sized van. I always maintain this part of our work is what keeps me fit and, besides, is cheaper than annual gym membership!

After much debate as to whether we could load it all on to our van, I had to admit defeat. We will have to go back tomorrow to collect the rest.

To cap it all, I found my iphone was missing. After enquiries in the office and phoning it on Mike's phone, we realised it was not within earshot and had not been handed in. I immediately remembered the Where's my iPhone app installed on Mike's phone and actually identified where it was - travelling in a Northerly direction. Thanks to the app, I was able to lock the phone and only then, realised how much of our lives we lay bear on our mobiles.

After several calls to my own number, I finally got a reply and was able to assess that a member of the public at the auction had decided, having found it, to take it home with them rather than hand it in.  Once locked, it could be of no use to them and I was able to reclaim it after driving to their house. Decided this app is essential for all iphone users.

No pics to this blog today. Sorry! Got home late and after a hot bath, was glad to relax with a couple of G & T's. Settled down this evening to watch the DVD, The Lady, the true story of Aung San Suu Kyi, the woman who was at the core of the Burmese Peace Movement. - A little known but excellent film.

Lots to work on and restore to their resplendent best over the next couple of weeks. Watch this space!

First Entry - 4th July 2012

I'm taking my very first baby step into the world of blogging, motivated by some of the fine blogs Ive stumbled across on my world wide web travels.

Described by some as a silver surfer, though I prefer to think of myself as a savvy surfer, I embraced the internet about 10 years ago and soon went from making the odd purchase on Ebay to becoming a full-time seller with the invaluable help of my husband, Mike.

Our Ebay Store

Now with over 3,700 positive feedbacks, accumulated over the past few years - with not one negative, I'm rather proud to claim,  I have found that, for all its faults, Ebay has provided our business, Owl Cottage Collectables,  with a worldwide clientele from all walks of life and cultures.

What they, and we, share in common is a love of all things vintage.  

Whether it be a high end antique or an upcycled preloved piece of furniture, it is not only far more environmentally friendly than something bought new on the high street, but has an individuality and charm that simply cant be replicated - offering the new owner something which is unique to them.

From our cottage in Cambridgeshire, we enjoy foraging at antique fairs, auction houses and sometimes the odd car boot sale in order to rescue and restore vintage finds to their resplendent best.

I love transforming the odd piece thanks to Annie Sloan Chalk Paint and am fast discovering my favourite shades and effects, though would never dream of painting anything which would be devalued as a result.  Here are a few of my past projects and, with the aid of this blog, will add future finds and restorations as and when, as well as a daily journal.