Wow! What a week!

 Well, if you live in the Pacific Northwest, this has been quite a week!  We had a major ice storm that knocked out all electricity, phones and internet for more than a week in some areas.  Unfortunately, our little community of Aurora was out of power for a week.  It is a small town so it also impacted other utility services.  Whew!  We have everythig back online again and are looking forward to seeing all of you again.  Today is our first day open in a week!  We were planning on having our "Sweetheart Sale" last weekend but that just could not happen.  We are wanting to make up for that!  We are having our Sweetheart Sale" this Friday - Sumday, February 19th - 21st.  Everything storewide is 10% off with many vendors offering deeper discounts.  We are warm, have lights on and are eagerly awaiting catching up with all of you and your epic storm stories!

Back in the 17^th century, the Dutch East India Company  began bringing exotic shells back to European collectors.  Obtaining these shells was just for the rich.  They displayed their shells in “cabinets of curiosity”.   At some point in time, ladies of leisure could obtain little packets of these shells, along with a pattern, with which they created beautiful little trinket boxes. These have often been called “sailors valentines”.  They really were not made by sailors, but purchased by them for sweethearts at home.  There was a big industry in a Barbados seaport for these little boxes.  Today they are reproduced, but the vintage ones are still around.  Think about these little boxes as not only works of art, but presentation gift boxes!  Tuck a little cotton in the bottom and add jewelry or even a few fancy chocolates.  Get creative with your Valentine efforts this year and do something really different. South End Antique Mall has a vendor with a beautiful collection of these little vintage boxes. “Follow Your Heart to Aurora” is happening Saturday, February 13^th.  Bring your classic car and join other drivers for a fun day of shopping in Aurora.  It is well worth your time as there is a $100 giveaway!  South End Antique mall is having their “Sweetheart Sale” Friday – Sunday, the 12^th – 14^th.  We are offering 10% off everything in the mall.  Many vendors offer even deeper discounts! Don't miss all the fun in Aurora this weekend!