What a great day in Hereford, PA!!

My girlfriend Stacy and I had such a fun day off today -- we both really needed a day away from the usual stress and mess, and this kind of day was just perfect! The sun was shining (finally), it was about 75 degrees, breezy -- just right for a day at some wonderful shops about 2 hours out of Philly (without traffic would have been faster)!

We started out about 11:30 and took what turned out to be the very long way to meet Judy at The Cinnamon Stick (http://thespicecupboard.blogspot.com/). Judy was sweet and emailed me her phone number in case we got lost -- and we did! Finally found it after a few wrong turns calling her and pulled up to what is sure to look familiar to you!How totally cute! Judy met us at the door -- it is so great to meet blogging buds in person! After we went in to see this most amazing old building, I drooled for a while and then went shopping! Here's a few pics of her oh-so-cute shop! Both of these are on the second floor --for some reason, the camera got weird downstairs and I missed a few -- such great stuff for the pantry...

And luscious candles...
In fact, there are scrumptious smelling candles everywhere! Here is Judy and me...

and me with my closest girlfriend...

What a trooper!!! She has been sick all week but insisted on going today -- she had a great time and felt tons better after a day away, too. The Weight Watcher Twins.

After a delightful conversation and some hints from Judy on where to go next, we started for the next shop, which is right next door to Judy's shop.

All of you needle crafters out there would have wet your pants in this one. All kinds of homespun, rug hooking stuff, and wool. Lovely.

Then we went down the road a piece to a store that was another treat. All I could think of as I walked in there was "Linda Rudman would LOVE this store!!!!" It's called Aunt Daisy's and I was so excited that I forgot to take out the camera! Here's the web site-- http://auntdaisys.com/-- you must take a look. All Early American inspired -- and the 'real thing' -- talk about drooling. Every single thing in the store is handmade by crafters -- and what a treat for the eyes (but not the pocketbook, unfortunately, since I could have bought up the store.). I got the feeling that the artisans are Amish -- not only because the work was perfection, but because there is such an Amish influence throughout the area.We spent quite a while there as well, since we were greeted by the sweetest Golden Retriever, who laid down in front of us, turned over and exposed his goodies so we could scratch his tummy for a half an hour. All you could hear was his tail thumping on the floor! And I can't forget his sister -- a Chocolate Lab who is so laid back and so sweet. Both rescued, and both pooches I fell in love with. We chatted with the owners for the longest while -- made new friends. I did buy some textile -- my tablecloth, which I wanted for the longest time. Can't wait to go back in the Fall. A beautiful store in every way. I'll take a droop rag next time.

We passed by an "Antique" Mall -- so we went in. HUGE. My feet were killing me. Reminded me of the concession shop I go to down here, but most of the goodies were overpriced. But a fun look at some very unique things.

Then stopped for dinner and came home! Here is my stash from the day (not that I should have spent so much, but hell, I work like a dog, and I needed this! (OK, so I'm rationalizing, but I'll be good from now on.)

Oh, how I love this tablecloth! And isn't the herb bag from Judy's shop adorable? And the candle...and the huge blue Mason jar which will be a lamp by tomorrow....

Got some battery candles and some tapers...and that was our day!!! Thank you so much for your hospitality, Judy -- we will see you again soon!!! Your shop is wonderful!!