Antique Vampire Killing Kit

A complete and authentic vampire killing kit — made around 1800 complete with stakes, mirrors, a gun with silver bullets, crosses, a Bible, holy water, candles and even garlic, all housed in a American walnut case with a carved cross on top — attained $14,850 in an estate sale by Stevens Auctioneers on October 3–4, 2008 in the Natchez Convention Center.

Dwight Stevens, auctioneer said, "I don't believe in vampires -- I've never met one. But somebody believed in them, something drove people to believe. From New Orleans to Vicksburg, these old boxes remain." Stevens has sold four vampire killing kits in his 27 years as an auctioneer with this one being the most expensive to date. Hmmm. I wonder if this kit would work on werewolves too? I can't remember a time when vampires were more popular, can you?

Thanks for stopping by the cottage for a little antiquarian fright this evening. Happy Halloween.



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French Baguette Truck

What a great job this must be. Can you imagine how heavenly this cute little truck must smell inside? I wonder if the driver has a stick of butter handy or if he just eats this freshly baked bread plain? YUM. Have a delicious weekend.

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Vintage Halloween Card circa 1920

Boo! I've always been drawn to vintage illustrations for children showing interior design of the day. How do you like the art deco window treatment in this Halloween card from the first quarter of the 20th century? Have a happy and safe celebration this year.

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Brave Kitty

I never tire of seeing cats perched dangerously in windows showing absolutely no fear. Love the flowers too.



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Delightful Brick Alley

I don't know where this brick alley is but I like it. I really want to peek inside those three arched windows, don't you?



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Peacock On Stone Garden Urn

I love this photograph of a peacock roosting on a fabulous antique stone garden urn on a weathered pedestal. Have a great weekend.
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Baby Owl or is it an Owl Baby?

Adorable ~ Emma the Owl is ready for her first Halloween. The link has one more photo of this sweet little bird. I hope her diaper bag gets filled with Trick or Treat goodies like teething biscuits and stuffed toys.



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Skeleton Dog

An amazing photograph of a dog with a skeleton haircut by the talented ©Tom Flach.



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Typography/Calligraphy Skull

Isn't this fabulous? A master-work of typography by Joby Cummings, wherein each of the seven deadly sins is woven into the likeness of a skull. Perfect for Halloween. via



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More Fall Color

A closer look at the oakleaf hydrangea leaf showing off its beautiful fall color.

Another view of my friend's entrance to a secret garden with pool and an open yard with beautiful mature landscaping.

I had no time to blog today so I'm showing two more photos from last Sunday morning. See you in the morning.



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Beautiful Office and Work Space for Two

I love the rolling portfolio stand and the blue bulletin boards. Martha Stewart always comes up with some beautiful and very organized work spaces. The blue boards have me puzzled. At first I thought they were painted corkboard but after looking more closely I think they're magnetic. I've always wanted one of those expanding collators like the one in the open cabinet. I'm not so sure about the three-legged chairs; they don't look very stable to me.



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Rainy Wednesday At My Cottage

There wasn't a leaf in sight when I finished mowing the back yesterday. All of these fell overnight.

I'll take care of the longish grass in the front the next clear dry day.

I swept the front walk last night at 6:00 pm. I am the only person I ever see in my neighborhood using a broom and a rake. Everyone else uses those horrible leaf blowers. I'm enjoying this warm rainy day.

I still have geraniums blooming on the deck too.

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So Nice!

I love this . . . don't you? The blue sky with the big white puffy clouds really sets off the second photo. I think this setting would be beautiful on a gloomy day too. 

French Bulldog Love

Have you ever seen anything cuter? I want the one in the middle. I'm going to babysit for a white one who is 6 months old while the owner (my friend Kelly) goes away for Thanksgiving. Webster and I are soooo excited. His name is Piggie and he is white with fawn spots. Can't wait!!!

We Are Having A Lovely Fall

Another of my photographs from last Sunday morning. My friend has landscaped her property so beautifully, hasn't she?

I'm off to an office meeting and open house tours. Be back later.



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Audrey Hepburn Cat

HaHa . . . This cat really does look like Audrey Hepburn, doesn't she?



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