Confession: Sometimes I drive to work.
It’s only a mile, so when I walk, that’s an easy two miles of exercise to add to the day. But – when it’s cold, or rainy, or cold AND rainy, I can’t seem to walk past the car outside my door.
My creativity, though, is not fed by wending through traffic but by walking – taking in the surroundings which change each day with the tides, and noting what things remain more or less the same. On walks my wandering mind might be graced with a “haiku moment” or two. All my senses are engaged.
When I walk to my studio, in the heart of downtown Beaufort, there’s always a wonder along the way. This year I’ll share some of those here. Maybe a picture will strike your fancy, offer a spark of inspiration, or simply give you something to ponder.
Like this:
BAY STREET TREASURES photo ©Robyn Hood Black
Um, how could I not notice the clever use of an old typewriter?! It first caught my eye in the warmer months, and now it’s graced with bright pansies for winter. This delightful gem welcomes visitors to Bay Street Treasures, a wonderful antique store at the corner of Bay and Charles Streets, across from the marina. It’s owned by Ginny & Allison DeBose and Barbara Marsh . Ginny and Allison kindly granted me permission to share this bewitching garden art.
I’ve bought a gift or two at Bay Street Treasures, and my hubby spotted just the thing for when I set up on “First Friday” evenings – some vintage stacking metal shelves. 
Red.
Perfect.
From vintage jewelry to furniture to clever metal oddities in the garden, I’m always tempted in that shop!
Across the street is another little place you must duck in if you are vintage-inclined – Reflections Old & New. Friendly proprietors will greet you there as well – Lynda and Doug Bransford (and their parrot!). You’ll find just the thing to class up your home or your closet with some elegant history. I couldn’t resist these antique metal buttons:
BUTTONS FROM REFLECTIONS OLD & NEW photo ©Robyn Hood Black
Now, what will I use these for? Oh, the creative wheels are turning.
Especially when I walk.
I love that typewriter planter. And the fact of pansies in January. And going for a walk in January (okay–I do that when the temperature is above 20 degrees, which it hasn’t been this week–not that I would complain about winter.) Your new home sounds splendid.
Thanks for coming by, Buffy! And I sure can’t complain about the temps here, especially compared to the rest of the country this week. Stay warm – and inspired!
I didn’t remember the name, but I think this was one shop that really caught my fancy as well. The outdoor area especially– so fanciful!
It would be a great spot to conjure up some poetry, no? Next time you come this direction – ;0) – we must do that!
What a perfect find for you! I can’t wait to see you again! Miss you.
Can’t wait to see you either, Beth – thanks for the virtual visit in the meantime!
My brother opened an antique shop about a year ago, so I’ll be sure to share this with him, Robyn. I understand about the cold and wet, but it does sound like your walk is often heavenly. Love your little buttons, too!
Oh, Linda, it is almost always heavenly! We get used to that, and so whine when it gets a little chilly or drippy. Nothing like a Colorado winter! I’m sure your brother comes across lots of treasures. :0)