Shrine Sale and China Petes

I went with friends to a Shrine Sale and a place called China Pete’s.  Both were exceptional places with great finds.

When I first heard of a Shrine Sale I did not want to sound uncultured, so I did not ask what I was thinking… “Why do I need to purchase a shrine and are someone’s ashes in the urn it comes with.”   I just listened and then became more intrigued. 

Shrine sales get their name from the fact that they are held on the grounds of the various temples and shrines throughout Japan.  In the states we would probably call these Yard Sales, Flea Market, Antique Markets, etc.

The are a bit better than your average sale.  The finds are really quite nice.  I can see how people could easily become hoarders at these sales.  That is why I told myself I would have to answer three questions before I purchased anything.

Do I have one like it at home right this minute?

Will I use it within the next two months?

Do I have a place to store it?

Well, I found a few things that I could answer yes to. 

Doing my happy dance!

Dessert Plates from China Pete's

I will be using these for a ladies lunch..!

Tea Set from Shrine Sale

The tea set came in a set of 5.  In Japan, wedding gifts like these are given in sets of 5 because it can not be evenly separated.  They hope this will prevent divorce.

Hollowed Tree Trunk Candles

These candles will go on the lanai during the Spring and Summer and Fall...LOL!   I can see it now, Franklin putting steaks on the grill while I sit drinking a glass of Chardonay or Riesling.  The crew over for a night of Spades.

Gold Obi

Orange Obi

This is the belt that Japanese women wear with their Kimonos.  The lady below is wearing a striped one  around her waist.  

I use mine as a table runner and buffet runner.  They are hand made. The orange one is from Kyoto. I bought the gold one at a bazaar in November.  It was made in Osaka.

Before Shrine Sale

After Shrine Sale

I do think I might get addicted to the shrine sale kind of shopping.  This was a lot of fun!