Magic at Alpha Thrift

The two Alpha Thrift stores on Hollister Ave in Goleta deserve their own lengthy and enthusiastic blog post, which is forthcoming, I swear. But for now, I offer just a little taste of the magic that happens when you walk through those doors.

A few weeks ago, as I was jamming to the Sheena Easton being piped in on the store's speakers and perusing the selection of 1990's Talbots jackets, when I ran smack dab into this thing:

It literally took my breath away. I wanted to launch my body onto it like a hero jumping on a grenade, only I would be yelling "MINE. BACK OFF" and being an asshole rather than saving lives. 

The price tag? $189.00. 

I threw this photo up on the Facebook, imploring someone with space to buy it and allow me visitation rights. I got at least 7 comments. It was a big deal.

So when I went back yesterday, looking to add to my growing wardrobe of preppy-older-lady wear, I wasn't surprised when it was gone. I was sure some hip young couple had snatched this thing up and taken it back to their über-Eames-y home in Eagle Rock. Until I rounded the corner, and:

Uh. Mah GOD SOMEBODY GO BUY THIS THING FOR GOD'S SAKE. 5624 Hollister Avenue. 

Inspiration Wednesday: Goethe

"That the moment one definitely commits oneself, then Providence moves too.

All sorts of things occur to help one that would never otherwise have occurred. A whole stream of events issues from the decision, raising in one's favour all manner of unforeseen incidents and meetings and material assistance, which no man could have dreamed would have come his way.

Whatever you can do, or dream you can, begin it. Boldness has Genius, Power and Magic in it. Begin it now."

- Johann Wolfgang von Goethe






What leap of faith have you taken, and how did it work out?

The Random Store

Surprise, surprise, my lack of discipline and inability to commit has revealed itself in my very infrequent blog posts. Bloggin's hard, y'all. I'm trying.

Today I want to talk to you about the Random Store in Santa Barbara. At 1207 State Street, it's conveniently located next to McDonalds for maximum bum interaction and harassment. You won't know that it's called the Random Store, as the storefront lacks any kind of signage, but when you see the chaotic window displays of large wood sculptures, bizarre doll collections and blown glass knick-knacks, you'll know you've found it.

If you like a treasure hunt, this is the place for you. They are constantly bringing in new items from "auctions, leftovers, surplus, odd lots, tag sales and other (legal) means", according to their website. I cannot believe this place has a website. 

One time I found several beautiful Moroccan rugs strewn over some old comic books in the back. The 4X6 rugs were $25 and the 8X10 was $45. I don't know much about rugs, but I knew this was a deal. I walked home to get my car, and when I came back they were gone. "Some lady bought them all up", the Ichabod Crane-like employee shared. I was bummed. And I was considerably more bummed when I found them--the same rugs, to be sure-- for sale at Wendy Foster in Montecito for $4,000 a week later. Hmph.

You can find Good:

Bad:

Questionable/Awesome:

Bizarre:

and I forgot to mention, Plumbing Supplies:

See you there.