The Loaded Trunk

A Day With Jihad...Kapadokya(Cappadocia) Undiscovered

2011-10-19T00:32:00.000-07:00

Mehmet who has been my host in Goreme, who I fondly think of as one of the Goreme mafia, seems to have his hands into a bit of everything here...By everything..I mean he has been my carpet guru, owns a travel agency, hotels and one of the hot air balloon companies. A few days ago he informed me I was to meet him in the lobby the next morning , he was putting me on his favorite tour of the area and the locations would unfold as I toured...

What a treat. It was a beautiful day and our guide was humorous, engaging and incredibly knowledgeable. He immediately began by introducing himself..."Hello my name is Jihad." According to the Qur'an and the Hadith, jihad is a duty that may be fulfilled in four ways: by the heart, the tongue, the hand, or the sword. The first way (known in Sufism as the “greater jihad”) involves struggling against evil desires. The ways of the tongue and hand call for verbal defense and right actions. The jihad of the sword involves waging war against enemies of Islam. Believers contend that those who die in combat become martyrs and are guaranteed a place in paradise. I assure you he had none of the latter in him!

Soganli Valley, one of the most secluded and tranquil valleys in Cappadocia. We begin our hike along one side of the valley, visiting many cave churches and we returned along the other side of the valley to a quaint village.

Exploring 1000-year-old Rock Church and Monastery
Archenclos rock church and Keslik monastery in the Soganli Valley dates back to at least the 10th century. It housed hundreds of monks. Inside the dwellings, you can see, carved from the stone, chimneys, fireplaces, bookshelves, a kitchen, and frescoes.

Derinkuyu Underground City

The extensive networks of passages, tunnels, stepped pits and inclined corridors link family rooms and communal spaces where people would meet, work and worship. The cities were complete with wells, chimneys for air circulation, niches for oil lamps, stores, water tanks, stables and areas where the dead could be placed until such time as conditions on the surface would allow their proper disposal. Most importantly, carefully balanced moving stone doors, resembling mill stones, were devised to quickly block the corridors in the event of an attack. Of course, these doors operated from one side only! There are said to be over 200 underground cities in this region with only a fraction of them discovered.

back to the peaceful Sultan Cave Suites

Urfa, Copper, Baklava...Adventure

2011-10-18T02:45:00.000-07:00

48 hours in southeastern Turkey...After driving 7 hours southeast Murat and I arrived in Urfa (Sanliurfa), a town which is situated on a plain under big open skies, about eighty kilometers east of the Euphrates River. I wanted to come back here for the copper market where you can find craftsmen working like they did thousands of years ago. I love the travel and hunting (shopping) I do and I am always on the look out for my next best meal or food discovery, and this region delivers. It is a crossroads of Syrian, Kurdish and Turkish cultures. Anywhere else in Turkey the cooks might use 4 spices in a dish. Here, they use 15, the results being often spicy and mouthwatering. Pistachios are a staple and the baklava is as good as it gets!

After hours of shopping we headed back to Goreme with a trunk filled with copper and a few kilos of baklava...

a shot while leaving Goreme for Urfa...çok güzel(very beautiful in Turkish)

hand made and carved, this is before they have tinned it.

copper dealer who remembered my last visit with my daughter...

proof of life!

Murat mesmermized by the goat skin drum he purchased

beautiful spoons...

Pigeon breeders

Baklava from Dilim Pastanesi in Sanliurfa

the road back to Kapadokya throught the Takir Valley...the Toros mountains in view

On the way back from Urfa Murat mentioned that his grandfather and great grandfather used to travel this route on donkeys to trade in this region. I closed my eyes and tried to imagine.

Goreme Less Than 24 Hours...Room 2

2011-10-13T09:11:00.000-07:00

My fabulous host has a full hotel and I am his guest. Part of my job is being flexible. I have moved rooms already as he generously juggles me around.

Göreme located among the "fairy chimney" rock formations, is a town in Cappadocia, a historical region of Turkey. It is in the Nevşehir Province in Central Anatolia and has a population of around 2,500 people and has become a place where people come to balloon, ride horses and hike, so it is a stop off tourist visit for 2 days.

I could park here for weeks, maybe months...The last time I was here with Ryan, my daughter and Mehmet was just building and renovating this gem. Now there is a restaurant, spa, several sections and because he has been a carpet and textile dealer for the past 20 years, there are all sorts of treasures.

the very popular patch work kilim carpets

this robe from Uzbekistan gives me the chills..

This a must stay...ask for Mehmet, or Mustafa!

From Construction to Perfection

2011-10-12T23:39:00.000-07:00

I landed in Turkey last night after a long but exciting journey. Exciting mean all flights were on time and the flight was empty. I indulged myself with some of my favorite Turkish delights on board, sour cherry juice, cheese, wine, ambien and sleep! I woke to an airline breakfast of one of my favorites. Feta, tomatoes, olives and Chai and Aryan, a salty yogurt drink. I was happy and had not gotten off the plane. After a bit of a delay and a long walk to I found my next flight to Kayseri. Greeted by my friend Murat I was driven to Goreme in Kapadokya, central Turkey, my ultimate destination for the next few days.

my loft just before leaving USA

My my room in the Sultan Cave Hotel in Goreme, Turkey. My friend Mehmet had been working for several years on this masterpiece. more to come.

Travel Disaster Averted!

2011-10-10T11:00:00.000-07:00

Having my own business has apparently made me quite the space cadet. I was all ready to go on my buying trip to Turkey & India this Tuesday...when my lovely friend in Delhi I was to stay with and shop with was checking in to confirm... Now, I have traveled a lot, so I knew what the weather was going to be, the holidays, when and where the craft markets were, how much cash to bring, passport, etc etc. but... somehow the Visa to make entry to this beautiful country skipped my mind. 24 hour rush you are thinking? Alas, we celebrate Columbus day. I don't even know what this holiday is? In my defense many of the countries I go to have Visa upon arrival!

Instead of this being a disaster. It has turned into an amazing circle of events. My friend Ann(in India) decided to go to the markets with her camera and all morning it was like I was buying stocks. She was snapping photo's(while I was unpacking all of the summer clothes I had packed for India) sending them from her phone to mine giving me quantities then waiting for me to confirm. It was a fast paced and exciting... 4 hours and heck I wasn't exhausted at all...Below are some of the yes's.

Beautiful throws and scarves from a once a year craft fair in Delhi, most of the these come from a town near the Pakistan border filled with fantastic weavers... Bhuj, Gujarat...I can't wait until they arrive.

These adorable birds were a yes, unfortunately, all but these few were gone!

Me my last trip to Goreme in Kapadokya...

I have emailed friends in Turkey and planned for an extra week in Kapadokya, re-packed my suitcase with with cool weather clothes and heading to one of my favorite places on earth... fall, mountains rural, relaxing and LOTS of textiles and vintage copper. I will now be able to spend more time in places other than Istanbul,Turkey scouting out carpets, copper, and more Turkish delights with old (and hopefully new) friends.

Disaster averted!

Follow my Turkish travels over the month of October and see what I bring back ...virtually from India and hands on from Turkey!

If I've learned anything from my travels it's that flexibility often leads you down those narrow, untraveled paths to friends and finds.

Tesekkurler ve Gurusuruz!

Roni

Remembering My Father A Renaissance Man

2011-08-29T08:09:00.000-07:00

My dad would be 88 today I think. We always got his birthday mixed up it was either august 29th or 30th. He died suddenly 6 years ago. He is missed everyday. Recently while visiting my mom in Carlsbad I had a chance to look at a collage my brothers and I made with our kids for his 80 birthday. We each brought our stash of pictures we had been snitching from my parents for years. We were holed up in our condo in Park City Utah for hours deciding which pictures to use making sure all stages of Dad's life were represented while we argued, laughed and remembered.

My Family through 5 generations

My Dad with his brothers

my parents

Mae & Marv...the handsome couple...look at me in my Dynasty gown for my senior or junior prom that my mother had made for me while living in Hong Kong. Dad looking like Man From Uncle and Mom like she was guest starring on Dynasty

Like so many treasures this is priceless...

Images of NYC Summer 2011

2011-08-20T19:48:00.000-07:00

Art, nature, commerce, family and food. Just back from an action packed week in NYC.

Lights out at the Chelsea hotel... the end of an era?

Poking around the book deals at the irresistable Strand


NY International gift show...exhausted and shopped out, I had my own tacky booth contest. The winner...

I stay in Brooklyn with Ryan and James who have a special place. Veggies from their generous garden

Me, snipping greens for dinner

My daughter...I just realized we look like we have matching outfits.

more garden delights

amazing dessert, brava ryan and martha stewart

Brooklyn Museum's fantastic show!
Every trip from India I come home with a little collection, not museum quality, but a wonderfully affordable selection. There are still some miniatures, embellished god & goddess prints and my favorite folk art paintings from Bihar.

What a nice week.

Summer Flown By!

2011-08-10T19:47:00.000-07:00

Yikes it has been a busy summer. Loads of new goodies on the website. An upcoming trunk show in Montauk at Cynthia Rowley next week. A fall wedding for my son. A fall buying trip to India and Turkey. Pulled in so many directions I feel like gumby...I thought summer was a time for sun and fun...................Here's a view of a colorful late summer shoot...


Oh the vino...More new drink ware musts!


This beautiful Granada tray holds lovely horn ginko leaf servers, Turkish bowls and bone fish African horn spoons.


It’s Allan Winkler’s planet, and the rest of us are just living on it.


Muy Macho bottle opener!


Like us on facebbook and enter to win these Turkish Delights!

Nubby, Felt Goodness

2011-07-19T09:40:00.000-07:00

Isn't this rug adorable? Hand-felted by Nepalese artists, embroidered and as you can see, looks great on any floor!

Gray, White and Yellow

2011-07-14T11:45:00.000-07:00

Gray is always a popular color for the home and in design in general. It's such a clean, crisp look...modern and traditional at the same. It's also the perfect backdrop for adding pops of color, like the coverlet you see above. Miss Katrin, a fan of Scandinavian design, has recently overhauled her home for a cleaner look. Her once colorful rooms are gone and shades of white now grace most of her little cottage home. Her cat Maisey also has really great taste. She's perched on top of that beautiful, hand-embroidered coverlet like she owns it. Cats are funny like that aren't they? They think they own everything!

Trending Global

2011-07-11T15:45:00.000-07:00

As a long-time fan of global textiles, it's exciting to see the trend coming into the mainstream. The May issue of Paper magazine had a look put together by fashion editor Martha Violante with styling assisted by Kelly Govekar. Martha explained her look as this:

"I've been daydreaming about all the traveling that I hope to be doing this summer......I wanted to channel that girl who's been around the world and back, collecting jewelry, clothes and knick knacks along the way."

Doesn't that fit me to a T? As I've mentioned many times before, I was an Army brat and that traveling bug has never left me. It's part of why I started The Loaded Trunk, to share all the treasures I find in my travels. To replicate this look, I've pulled a few pieces from my shop. One thing you have to remember in pulling off this is look is to have no fear. Don't be afraid to mix patterns, textures, colors and styles. Sometimes we get stuck in a rut and worry about things matching all the time, but bohemian style is about more, more, and more. The more comfortable you get with it, the easier it will be to achieve this look. Let's get started!

First, I grabbed some dresses from my imaginary on-line closet from here, here and here. These are all great because they're soft and flowy and a wide print belt would add some definition to the waist line and another level of texture and color.

Now, we'll layer it up and add some Loaded Trunk styling. I'll start with the belt, it was the most striking thing for me because it reminded me of the vintage skirt borders I picked up from Laos. They're hand-embroidered and traditionally sewn onto a long, solid skirt, but I've doubled it around my neck for a looped scarf and for this look, as an intricate belt.

The Loaded Trunk: Vintage Skirt Borders, Laos, $95

Next, we'll be adding some jewelry. I come across the most amazing beads, amulets and stones on my travels. Pictures won't ever really do them justice, things just feel so much nicer in your hands. The beads have deeply rich histories and cultures and I can't help but feel that when I'm wearing them. Layering and excess are key.

The Loaded Trunk: Brilliant Bangles, hand-made resin, $10 each
Stackable Bohemian Bracelet Trio, $95
Quartet of Bohemian Bracelets, $145

The Loaded Trunk: Sterling Silver Geometric Bracelet, India, $225 each

The Loaded Trunk: Gypsy Lapis, Afghan and Thai, $195
Gypsy Spirit Necklace, Afghan and Oaxacan, $95
Paradise Found, Afghan and African, $275
Ancient Fringe, Uzbek and Afghan, $175

Finally, I pulled some bowler bags made from vintage Kantha quilts and an embroidered Hmong clutch to finish the look. All these prints, colors and textures are certainly over-the-top but a global traveler has to be fearless, doesn't she?

The Loaded Trunk: Vintage Kantha Bowler Bag, India, $120
Vintage Hmong Clutch, $30

Salt Service

2011-07-05T21:32:00.000-07:00

Before salt and pepper shakers made an appearance on dinner tables in the 1950s, salt was served in an an open vessel, also known as a salt cellar. True salt cellars have lids to keep moisture out of the once highly valuable commodity, but today's salt cellars are usually lidless. Cellars have been coming back to the dinner table though, in a variety of materials, stone, marble, pewter, glass, porcelain and wood. I keep a small jar of kosher salt with a regular spoon next to my stove for cooking, but when guests come for dinner, I pull out the fanciest little bowl for my salt service and of course, the fanciest spoon to go with it. These itty bitty, hammered brass spoons would be a lovely accent to any salt cellar, don't you think? How do you serve your salt at the dinner table?

Treasure Box

2011-07-01T12:01:00.000-07:00

Originally used for storing betel nuts, these silver-plated, hand-made orbs are exquisite displayed on their own or used to store jewelry. How surprised and ecstatic would you be to open this treasure box to find a ring, earrings or a necklace inside? Since we're in full wedding season, these would be perfect for a proposal or as gifts for your bridesmaids. Measuring less than 2" per piece, each one is a delicate work of art. All the jewelry pictured above is vintage: a gold, diamond and jade ring, a faux-gold rose link bracelet and a pair of green clip-on earrings. You can find the Vietnamese-made Akha Silver Treasure Boxes here.

New York City

2011-06-20T13:07:00.000-07:00

I just got back from a busy month of traveling, Chicago for my niece's graduation and last week to New York again to see my daughter. I came back to some web glitches on my shop site so it's been a busy week already. Here are some quick pictures I took during that trip. I'll tell you all about it this week, as soon as I catch my breath! Both fabulous cites for art, theater, food and people watching...


I was eating in a yummy French Bistro across the street watching this dapper dude thoroughly enjoying his cigar! I love the West Village...

Eye candy on the subway.

My daughter's place in Brooklyn..Ahh the green space

Great exhibit at the MOMA. hurry though...I think it is leaving soon

Beautiful exhibit at the Brooklyn Museum

Modern Wedding with Exotic Twist

2011-06-13T15:13:00.000-07:00

photo by Punam Bean

When you see exotic, cross-cultural weddings, often the entire wedding is covered in head-to-toe jewel-tones of deep, vibrant colors with sparkling gold and flashy embellishments everywhere, down to the smallest details. It's definitely dramatic and gorgeous but some brides are looking for smaller doses of global glamour. This couple's wedding, photographed by talented international wedding photographer Punam Bean, was traditional in both the American and Indian sense. What I love about this is her paisley, Indian-inspired scarf thrown casually over her white wedding dress. Just a spot of color to make things more interesting. Whether it's the cooler months of the year or the cooler nights of summer, a scarf is the perfect accessory to keep those bare bridal shoulders comfortable and cozy.

This orange, boho, block print scarf from Thailand would be a gorgeous compliment to a vintage country wedding or a modern wedding with orange accents. You can see more of Punam's work here and my entire collection of exotic scarves from The Loaded Trunk here.

Father's Day Gifts

2011-06-06T08:34:00.000-07:00

I've hand-picked some special pieces from The Loaded Trunk for your world-traveling, sophisticated fathers this Father's Day. A mix of low-end and high-end art collectibles, vintage Burmese slingshots and cowhide boxes and rugs are on the list. Enjoy!

Collectibles: Burmese Nats

2011-05-31T14:24:00.000-07:00

Burmese Nats

Nats is the general term for the spirits of Burmese religion and belief. They play an important part in Burmese myths and traditions. In the wonderland of Burmese legends no one could help but get involved with Nats, indeed one has only to be in Burma for a few hours to hear the word Nat mentioned. The Nats are for the Burmese people similar to how the Catholic Church views their Saints. These wonderful wood carvings are coated with lacquer, dyes, hair, colored glass and gold leaf. They radiate a place and time far away. The Arachneed does a great job of explaining the intricacies and history of nats, you can read more here.

Weddings, Lovers + Uncovering Affordable Art Pieces

2011-05-15T20:21:00.000-07:00

If you are a lover of art, it is possible to purchase affordable art pieces. Here are tips to help you in the process. If you get to meet the artist ask about what their inspiration was and the story behind the work. This will provide you with insight and perception on the artist. Signature and authenticity certificates are important if you plan on becoming a collector. Either of these two will verify originality and prove that your new art prints are indeed real. I do a bit of both, most of my art is for me and is not purchased as an investment. Mounting and framing costs should also be considered. I use local framers and often will find fantastic frames at flea markets.

The most important thing when buying for yourself is to buy what you like, art is subjective and emotional.

These Indian pieces are from The Loaded Trunk and depict scenes with lovers...If you are buying for a couple getting married make sure you have a good idea of their style before buying a piece... I would have traded in many of my wedding gifts for art! I don't remember who gave me my wine glasses, but I remember those art objects I received. There was something so personal about them. Not another check off an obligatory list of things someone registered for.

Miniatures from Rajasthan are intricate, small sized, colorful handmade folk paintings, executed with detail with very delicate brushwork. This one depicts the lovers, Krishna + Radha and is painted on old Indian government stamped papers
$50.00 at The Loaded Trunk

The relationship of Radha and Krishna is the embodiment of love, passion and devotion.  During the late nineteenth century, India established a printing Industry devoted to producing images of Hindu Gods and Goddesses. These are fantastic pieces for those friends that dare to be different.
$75.00 at The Loaded Trunk

Shibori Style

2011-05-09T07:50:00.000-07:00

Silk Dupioni Shibori Wrap

silk dupioni / handwash or dry clean / made in the USA

This fantastic scarf/wrap combines the precision patterning of Shibori tying methods with gorgeous colors on silk dupioni. These were made by local Kansas City artist + designer Joscelyn Himes. Click here to shop or to see more great accessories.

Kansas City style blogger Jessie Artigue of The Concrete Catwalk shows us how to turn a simple wrap or scarf into a popular fashion trend: the turban.

Road Trip To Paducah!

2011-05-02T08:48:00.000-07:00

I recently joined a organization called TAFA (The Textile and Fiber Art List is a worldwide membership organization of fiber artists and textile businesses on the web showcasing member portfolios through its website). My traveling, usually on a plane and out of the country was pleasantly interrupted this week with a last minute road trip to be one the vendors at the first TAFA Market held during the 27th Annual AQS Quilt Show in Paducah, Kentucky... An unlikely liaison for me... or so I thought.

I had a lovely home stay with a couple in the country and made fast friends with a few of the other vendors and Rachel Biel, the strong force behind organizing this event. Both artist and creative entrepreneur of Rayela Art she is relentless in trying to move this world wide organization to the next level.

One of the famous Paducah Murals...

My corner of the market...

Abdul & Rachel playing with a few of my textiles.

My wonderful host's home

The reluctant traveler was pleasantly surprised by the diversity and hospitality in this lovely southern town.

for your mothers

2011-04-25T11:38:00.000-07:00

My mother traveled with me on my last buying trip to S.E. Asia. She is 83 going on 60! I spent a fair amount of time living in

S. E. Asia growing up with my family and my mother clearly had not forgotten her bargaining skills. Here she is at our lovely

Lanna-style hotel in Chiang Mai, Thailand.

Some classic, elegant accessories for your one and only momma...

WESTERN STONE NECKLACE gemstones with hand-wrapped copper and rawhide » $85
BRONZE FLOWER PIN with freshwater pearls and tiger's eye » $55
MOTHER OF PEARL SERVING TRAY inlaid mother of pearl and camel bone from India » $299
BALI BASKET handpainted with Indian Mowar and Prodo designs » $85
BLOCK PRINT BOHO SCARF handwoven, block printed cotton scarf from Thailand » $34
SUKHOTHAI 8" PLATE blue and white Thai ceramic plate with crackled celadon-like finish » $20

Affordable Art of the Month

2011-04-18T05:53:00.000-07:00

Ganesha, The Remover of Obstacles

x x x x x x x x x x x x x x x x x x x x x x x x x x x x x x x x x x x x

$75 / 10"w x 11.5"H / unframed
x x x x x x x x x x x x x x x x x x x x x x x x x x x x x x x x x x x x

During the late nineteenth century, India established a printing industry

devoted to producing images of Hindu gods and goddesses.

These kitschy posters are all over India, but these three-dimensional

embellished gems are extra special. While in Jodphur, India with my daughter we were having our daily 4pm meltdown(sensory overload). We popped into this place to get a bit of quiet from the chaotic market under the clock tour. Hours later we emerged excited with our purchases and ready for more! Aah the marvels of India.

Click here to shop or to see more great art.

Affordable Art is a new monthly feature on the blog to highlight fun art for under $100.

Tribal Art From Vietnam

2011-03-18T07:13:00.000-07:00

There are 53 ethnic minority groups in Vietnam. During my recent visit there I put together a special group of my favorite paper masks from the shamans, new prints from old wood blocks, textile patches from the back of Dao women's coats and handwritten and illustrated book pages from Taoist shaman. They are all rich examples of a few of the tribal groups in Vietnam, showing their traditions have changed little in a century (as documented by comparing photographs taken a century apart) and in most cases many centuries....Here is a favorite spot I go to find these disappearing gems.

Shaman paper masks

Pages from Taoist Shaman book


Contemporary print from a Shaman's Buddhist stamp

Textile patches from the back of Dao women's coats

A journey through time...

Sea Envy

2011-03-15T19:02:00.000-07:00

This photo of graffiti was taken by my daughter while walking in Brooklyn today. I would love to have this as a framed piece on my wall. How great is it that anyone can see it though!

As I have been photographing some of my new things and the weather warms I think of the sea and it's color palate: the blues and greens of the water and the beige and browns of the shells and sand. Living in the middle of the USA, a girl can get sea envy.


Etching by Thai artist representing water...look for his work later this month

Wonderful new colors and inspiring designs...Mexican Coverlets

oh my... new boho bangles...soon

Not your typical day at the beach...India last year

Bragging Rights

2011-03-08T12:31:00.000-08:00

Hard work and a little help from your friends! Three years ago no one would have been able to convince me that owning my own business would be more challenging then being a single parent working full time. When I left my job in the wine business to launch The Loaded Trunk website, I had this pie in the sky idea that I had all the grit it would take to do this, no problem. Fast forward...The Loaded Trunk will be 2 years old in July and employing moi! I do have the grit, but when your freinds warn you how steep the mountain is you are about to climb, listen!

So it is with pride that I get to grin and blow on my knuckles and brush them against my chest in an old fashion "oh yeah" way: Here are what some of my peers are saying about The Loaded Trunk...

The favorite Crocodile stapler

Thai dishes recalling the Sukhothai period


Pretty + functional best selling Bali Baskets

The Age Old Art of Recycling Textiles

2011-03-06T15:58:00.000-08:00

"The green or up-cycled trend isn’t a twenty-first century and politically correct development. In fact, throughout time and across cultures people have reconfigured threadbare or worn fabric because of their value and they were reused often for practical, aesthetic and even symbolic purposes. This month and until January 2012, The Textile Museum in Washington, DC explores and presents diverse examples of re-purposed textiles in "Second Lives: The Age-Old Art of Recycling Textiles." I am quoting a recent article from HandEye Magazine written by Rebeca Schiller. It references one of my favorite and more intimate settings for exhibiting textiles and validates what we textile junkies who travel the globe or those who are armchair travelers and collectors already know. During these tumultuous times, too many of these places have become difficult to travel to. Each time I travel I hear from locals how rare old pieces are to find.

Check out these new textile finds from my last trip that might call out to you! You know who you are.

Border from Laos tube skirt
(frame it or use is at a do it yourself project for pillows!)

Hmong Pillow, Northern Thailand

Wonderful Coverlets pieced together with Hmong weaving + batik+applique work

Vintage textiles from Vietnam + Hemp pillows

These fabulous extra large bags are all one of a kind with indigo batik + vintage Hmong embroidery
(pictures by the loaded trunk)

Personal Wall of Art

2011-02-28T09:37:00.000-08:00

All week I have been seeing new art categories added to a few of my favorite websites . Apartment Therapy has a great post showcasing hot artwork and display ideas. Recently my daughter and one of her cousins have had a Facebook posting war showing whose wall of art is bigger and better. Here are the contestants:

If you want to get some affordable art to begin or add to your wall here are some new additions from a wonderful artist from Chiang Mai, Thailand to watch for at The Loaded Trunk. Hitting flea markets, garage or tag sales are a great way to find frames for your newly acquired art work.

(photos by the loaded trunk)

The Beauty of the Streets: Vietnam + Thailand

2011-02-08T12:14:00.000-08:00

I did not blog as much as I wanted. Traveling for one of my buying trips takes a toll on my time. I was lucky enough to have had the company of one of my children on my last couple of trips. Having someone to collaborate with helps document in a more timely manner!

I arrived back in the US last night and wanted to share some more of my experiences in Asia. Fewer words, more photos and videos of another memorable trip for The Loaded Trunk .

Hotel in Phuket, Thailand

Border check?

My lovely friend Flower, who owns an amazing Gallery called Tribal Arts in Hanoi. A must when shopping for Hill tribe art. Be prepared to dig.

Early morning fun at Chatuchak market.

Dinner with Mark Rapoport of 54 Traditions in Hanoi who co-owns this gallery in Hanoi, Vietnam. It focuses on the antiques, artifacts and art of Vietnam's 53 minority groups and the Kinh majority people. It is a fantastic place to begin your educational journey into this areas complex and quickly disappearing cultures that 54 traditions is helping preserve.

Hanoi corner.

A little Bangkok traffic.

View from the Chao Phraya river in Bangkok

Wat Arun

Old Hill tribe piece from Vietnam

Having necklaces made in Bangkok.

Having old glass bird necklaces made.

Wonderful hosts, plying me with almonds + tea.

Beautiful table surface.

Chao Phraya River

Wat Arun

Proof I was on this trip!

View from the top of Wat Arun.

Views from the top of Wat Arun ( favorite temple in Bangkok )

Thanks for coming along!

Roni

Calligraphy: A Tet Tradition In Hanoi

2011-02-03T01:36:00.000-08:00

The ong do (calligraphy scholar) is a symbol of Tet. Traditionally, when the Tet holidays approach, one of the Vietnamese customs is writing "nice" words in calligraphy with the hope of bringing good luck to the home. A visual writing art, Calligraphy first appeared as early as feudal times and reflects Confucianism. Several days ahead of Tet, especially around the Hanoi Temple of Literature and the HCMC Cultural Youth House many ong do artists, young and old, male and female (I did not see any women), in traditional long dresses and caps, gather to paint calligraphy for residents and tourists.

At Tet, people often ask ong do to write lucky words such as Phuc (happiness), Loc (prosperity) and Tho (longevity) or poems or proverbs with meanings of good health, good luck and prosperity for the new year.

The work is done on paper and usually hangs like a scroll attached to bamboo rods. During Tet Calligraphy is given as gifts to friends and colleagues. Therefore, ong do must not only be decorative but must also know many meaningful poems and proverbs to suit the buyer’s fancy.

I spoke with many of the Calligraphers and was particularly taken by a passionate young artist who is also a classical pianist. His sister who just completed her degree in International relations spoke terrific English and was able to describe in detail the emotions behind the work her brother does. One of the scrolls he painted took him months and includes in the smallest writing all of the poems written by Ho Chi Minh during his time in prison.

Along with my purchases this lovely artist wrote in English the key words used on brown paper for me to keep. I think I will put these in a large contemporary frame to remind me of my visit.

Young Calligraphy artist and his work above. The poems of Ho Chi Minh are painted on scroll above.

Photo's by The Loaded Trunk

Happy New Year!

Entry To Hanoi-Facebook Free

2011-01-29T21:48:00.000-08:00

I just arrived in a Facebook free zone. Hanoi, Vietnam. I had heard from an Aussie friend that this might happen. She lives in Saigon and says it comes and goes depending upon the government. Ha! What will I do? (Answer) I will get a social media holiday that I look forward to! This is such an exciting city. It is chilly and gray here but this beautiful place with so many layers of history just beckons to be explored and always puts a smile on my face.

This next week is the beginning of Tet - Vietnamese and Chinese Lunar New Year, it is the most important Festival of Vietnamese people. It is a scared Festival and falls sometime between late January or early February (depend on Lunar Calendar). Although officially a three-day affair, festivities may continue for a week or more with every effort made to indulge in eating, drinking, and enjoyable social activities. It is also a time for family reunions, and for paying respect to ancestors and the elders. Gifts of food are made to friends, neighbors and relatives in the days before Tet.

While driving in from the airport I saw many motor bikes carrying trees. I have been to Vietnam several times, never during Tet: I can only assume that this army of tree carrying has something to do with the traditions of celebrating this holiday.

(Photo's by The Loaded Trunk)

I can't wait to discover more...I am staying at, I kid you not, The Amazing Hotel. No, not glamorous, but already I have a time to "listen" as the manager Thom said: to his many stories about why he loves Americans. I sense adventure for these last 7 days of my trip.

Deja Vu:China Town, Bangkok

2011-01-28T03:41:00.000-08:00

I spent 2 months last year in India traveling and buying with my daughter for The Loaded Trunk. For much of the time it was a wonderful experience though it was filled with lots of learning curves. We wrote a blog together and one of them included a day at the Jodphur market: not long after we had begun our trip. I clearly remember being so overwhelmed at exactly 4pm (there is a huge clock) in the market area. I remember standing in the center of the square with cows, goats, rats, rickshaws, motor bikes, cars with their horns continually honking, rancid smells: and what seemed like thousands of people. I had reached a state of sensory overload. We retreated to our hotel and treated ourselves to a Kingfisher beer. From that day on we used 4 pm as our timetable for ending our day of shopping.

A travel photo with just clock tower showing. Quite peaceful and beautiful hey?


Me around 4 PM and our pictures of the Jodphur market as it really is. (photo's by The Loaded Trunk)

Today in Bangkok I had deja vu in China Town. I should know better, but someone I met here suggested I head there for old textiles. Unfortunately I listened and after feeling like a rat in a crowded maze found my way out: but not after catching some shots of a place I would save to see only if you have nothing else to do and have never been to a China town anywhere else in the world.

King of Thailand. The Royal family is revered and pictures of the family are everywhere. Even old videos of the royal family play on the Sky Train.

Chinese medicine store. Did not want to know what those antlers cure.

Sizing up my day.

Tomorrow is another day. Off to Chatuchak market!

Spirit Houses

2011-01-27T19:13:00.000-08:00

I fell in love with these symbolic Thai mainstays of everyday life on my very first trip to Thailand. They are called spirit houses and building one (SaanPhraPhum) is an ancient Hinduism/Brahmanism practice that still exists throughout Thailand. They are everywhere and the Thais believe that these spirits or guardian angels inhabit every piece of land and need to be appeased when disturbed. By providing the spirit with a home of its own, serenity and harmony is supposed to be assured within the property. If properly respected and cared for, the spirit will provide protection and ensure wealth and prosperity to the owner (if only). The guardian spirit, or "PhraPhum" of the residence and business, is "PhraChaiMongKol".

A site selection for the spirit house, and an invitation to the spirit to take up residence, must be made. Traditionally, these are overseen by a Brahman priest or someone who specializes in conducting such ceremonies. The time and place for it to be held is determined by astrological calculations.

Chiang Mai Spirit House.

Offerings

Phuket Spirit House, my favorite so far.

Can you smell the white Jasmine flowers?

They are like grown up doll houses with a soul that I can't help but be drawn to over and over.

Phuket, Beaches, Caves + Karsts

2011-01-25T07:49:00.000-08:00

There are so many things about traveling that I love. Each country has it's own balance no matter how hectic or different it may seem. The diversity of cultures living side by side is always mind boggling to me. I love being the one who stands out and yet I am constantly trying to fit in between the cultures surrounding me.

Usually I spend less time vacationing and more time working or "shopping" for The Loaded Trunk. This trip I have had time to explore. On a side trip to Phuket I spent time with family in the Andaman Sea kayaking through breathtaking caves, gliding by limestone karsts and sliding into caves that are only able to be entered when the tide is at a certain level and often lying down in the kayak to squeeze through.

If there is a single feature of south Thailand's landscape which commands ones attention right from the start it is these dramatic karsts which rise from the waters edge and valley floors to sheer vertical heights in excess of 900 meters. These butte-like crags were formed 260 million years ago when a shallow sea running the entire length of south Asia, slowly built up deep deposits of shells and corals which were later buried under sediments washing in from land. They are brilliant and the waters all around the karsts area are free of trash and an excess of tourist boats. It was a perfect day. The man who organized this expedition for us has made preserving this area his life's work.

Bat cave..so dark and had to get on our bellies to go through it. Yikes!

Hello

Michael and nephew Jonah who live in beautiful Phuket

Snacks

Entering one of the caves.

Sunset then more night cave kayaking with head lamps.
(photo's by Michael, Roni and Rachel)

What a day!

Ever Peaceful Chiang Mai

2011-01-19T07:30:00.000-08:00

Chiang Mai, a city surrounded by a ring of mountains, has weathered seven hundred years of fascinating history. It has its own very distinctive culture, arts, festivals, and traditions as well as an exciting mix of local, ethnic and expat communities from all over the world. Everyone I have ever met who lives here has a love affair with this city. Luckily this has not ruined the city's old quaint feeling. For me dinner at House drinking some Monsoon wine from Thailand (not bad), street food at the sunday market and the opportunity for a massage every few feet, could easily hook me.

Thailand lies between the two great civilizations of India and China and it has been much influenced by both. It also snuggles up to the Cambodian, Malaysian, Laos and Myanmar (Burmese) borders, making it a shoppers paradise. The people are lovely the weather has been cool and the shopping as always, exciting. There are night markets, Saturday markets and the very popular Sunday market, which happened to take place on the street our lovely hotel was on.

When shopping for The Loaded Trunk in Chiang Mai I spend time with an eclectic group of people that I have met over the years who help me source. The other time is just me hitting the markets; picking, haggling and hauling. This trip my mother has joined me for part of it and is helping pick and negotiate.

old burmese puppet heads

Tamarind Village Lanna style hotel, in the old walled city surrounded by a moat.

My mother in the outdoor lobby of Tamarind Village

Old Burmese Laquer

Pit stop..Yummy

Secluded driveway to Tamarind Village

Spirit houses are found outside of every business, home, hotel etc. The Spirit House provides an appealing shelter for the spirits, or celestial beings, who would otherwise reside in the heavens. According to folklore, the spirits themselves are either good or evil, but most are just finicky and mischievous, demanding respect from humans and capable of disastrous interferences if they don't get their way, The spirit of the land, for example. expects to be informed when a human intends to start a business or engage in improvements to an existing business. If the spirit is not informed, and if the human does not respectfully request permission, the spirit can indeed cause the venture to fail.)

Gorgeous wall paintings at Wat Phra Singh which was built in the 14^th century to enshrine the ashes of King Kam Fu.

Day at the market, Mom finishing a foot massage 30 minutes for $2.00.

So far it has been an adventure well worth the effort. Arrived in Phuket yesterday for a bit of R + R with the family heading on a day trip to Bat cave, Diamond cave and karst central...stay tuned.

Finally Thailand

2011-01-13T06:15:00.000-08:00

After a three day string of misadventures on my way to Thailand with my 82 year Mother we settled into our hotel in Bangkok for two nights cutting our stay there short by 3 days.

One missed and one canceled flight, two hotel stays at LAX, a taxi ride that ended with the hatch opening and all our luggage flying out at 30 miles per hour, lost luggage and might I say lots of irritable people: we finally landed in Bangkok at 1:30 am. We did a fast forward in Bangkok and hit Chiang Mai, Thailand in the north yesterday and I must say have not caught up yet. Between lost time, jet lag the need to find fabulous things quickly I am going to spare you the words and share some of our shopping and food experiences in Bangkok. More about fantastic Chiang Mai to come.

My mother and brother who lives in Thailand

Amulet market Bangkok

Michael, strong arm bargaining

more Buddha's beads

serious business these amulets

OMG...three foot high Chinese puppets

yummmm

Happy and hardworking..

sticky rice bundles

Satay anyone?

Getting serious at the amulet market

Hmmm..personal grooming!

Got in trouble for this photo..

Not England but just as serious about their royal family.

We are not talking gems stones (amulet dealer)

That is raw garlic..

Add caption

BKK here I come

2011-01-01T17:03:00.000-08:00

My first time in Bangkok I spent less then 24 hours. I was meeting a good friend and our plans were to travel around Thailand and Vietnam together. 24 hours, however, was not in the plan. We were to have spent 4 days there! Everything about it my 1st time was wrong: from the "green" hotel that I had chosen to stay in that had green things growing in the shower, to the T shirt vendor on the street who saw us and was thrilled to inform us that he had jumbo sizes for us to choose from, to my 1st Thai oil massage. It was done while I was naked, freezing and I was manipulated around as if I were a pretzel. Who knew! One of my more vulnerable moments. We left for the North the next morning.

Since that memorable 1st time I have returned to Bangkok several times. Like any big metropolis it often takes more then one visit to get your bearings. So on my way home from Vietnam I made myself go back to Bangkok. I never looked back, I fell in love with it.

The first thing I do now when I arrive in Bangkok is to have a Thai massage, many of them; never naked or with oil. The 2nd thing is to immediately hit a street food stall. The third is to hit JJ market. It is like going to Vin Expo in Bordeaux, Round Top In Texas or the world's largest stadium on earth chock full of antiques and "antiques", fascinating people watching, food, jewelry, furniture, art, to name only a handful of categories. It is only on the weekends and it is intense, invigorating and a pickers rush.

I love the broad Thai smile that instills in me that instant trust and remember how I must brush up on my hard nosed bargaining skills before I go each time! It is what makes these trips such incredible adventures, nothing is ever the same. With each visit I enter like a virgin and leave feeling a little more seasoned.


Cow greab pak mor These white dumplings are prepared in front of you on top of a hot plate. Salted radish is fried with garlic and coriander root, sugar and soy sauce and folded into white rice flour sheets. OMG!

La Tiang

La Tiang is a fantastic looking ‘bird’s nest’ concoction. A filling made from minced pork or shrimp and onion, peanuts, coriander, fish sauce and sugar is presented in a striking yellow nest made with eggs with a subtle kick of chili at the end. be still my heart.

Beginning of what was a long and fruitful day at "JJ" or Chatuchak market last year!

I leave this week for S.E. Asia and hope you will shop along with me on my journey and share with me my somewhat irreverent musings and always lots of photo's.

SAWATDEE PI MAI" (สวัสดีปีใหม่), Happy New Year...

roni

SALE...

2010-12-30T11:13:00.000-08:00

As I prepare for my next journey, I am trying to move through some of my fav's.

So... as I make some of my treasures available for less to you, you must run: this sale will last until January 3rd only. New additions daily. Lot's of things from S.E Asia, where I will be shopping, replenishing and looking for new + exciting additions.

Taken in Pamplona, Spain on a trip long ago at the running of the bulls(I am above, taking the picture!)

I would love to receive your comments + suggestions on things you would like to see me shop for. I will be shopping until early February.

Thank you for all of your support in 2010 + have a safe and HAPPY NEW YEAR!
roni

Preparing for the Hunt-First Stop Thailand

2010-12-14T17:26:00.000-08:00

The holidays bring as much stress as they do joy. Each day as a business owner I am filled with fear! Fear of not selling enough, fear of selling too much, fear of no one showing up to a trunk show. Am I blogging enough? Too much? Have I overused Facebook? Fear can be crippling and I lean on the side of drama.

Instead of allowing myself to drown in these all too real scenarios.....I begin flipping through photographs of places I have traveled and called on the memories of the personal bonds I have made while abroad. I realize that my next journey is around the corner and voila, the fear subsides and instead is replaced by textures, sounds, smells and the realization that the adventure will soon begin again. I do this so I can feed my addiction for street food, fresh exotic fruits, vintage textiles, beaches, antiques and shopping to create and sustain bonds with both my suppliers and customers!

I can feel the stress melting away. Near Phuket, Thailand

The inside of a Durian. A stinky, creamy fruit found in SE Asia.

Best described as having a succulent, creamy filling but smelling like stinky socks, ahh Durian


Rambutan, native to Indonesia, Thailand + the Philippines

Luscious

Burmese Puppets Heads from a favorite spot in Chiang Mai
(Photo's from Roni + Ryan)

Be sure to check out my website for new items. Happy Holidays!

Roni

Turquoise

2010-12-08T10:51:00.000-08:00

Turquoise is the birthstone for December. Europeans give turquoise jewelry as keepsakes or as a pledge of adoration. In The Merchant of Venice, Shakespeare uses this symbolism when Leah gives a turquoise ring to Shylock to win his favor.

Turquoise is a cool color. It tends to have a calming effect. At one end of the spectrum there are cold, impersonal, antiseptic colors. At the other end the cool colors are comforting and nurturing ones like the blue/ green in Turquoise. In nature blue is water and green is plant life - a natural, life-sustaining duo.

I love wearing Turquoise and whenever I can I try to incorporate it into the jewelry designed for The Loaded Trunk. Here are a few one-of-a-kind pieces for you December babes to adorn your body or your table.

These brilliant bangles from India are embellished with rhinestones and are hand-painted, giving a 3 dimensional Wow look.

The word Milagro mean miracle. These small charms, often depicting arms, legs, praying people etc. are often carried for protection and good luck!

Jade stone Chinese pendant stamp is anchored by turquoise beads and asymmetrical graphite beads.

This earthy Turquoise bracelet is reconstructed using beads from around the globe and gives a nod to nature & natural elements.

A timeless Buddhist Amulet comes to life amidst lovely turquoise and hand tooled gold wrapped Uzbek beads.


These beautiful platters come from various artists in Turkey and are all hand made. I use them to serve in but they are delicate and need to be hand washed gently. They are beautiful pieces of art and each platter can be hung. (Photo's by The Loaded Trunk)

Affordable Art: The Ultimate Luxury?

2010-11-26T20:23:00.000-08:00

“Art is the ultimate luxury.” I don't know where I found this quote but for me this is an untruth. "Like many of you, true one-of-a-kind art is a little bit out of my reach right now but I do not want my walls to be bare". This is another quote I found by a blogger that I take issue with! Art is like food for me, I MUST have it around me, this is my truth. I can't imagine thinking of art as a luxury. Sure, I don't own a Picasso, Dali, Jim Dine painting or an Arbus or Lebovitz photo. I do own a lot of amazing pieces from painters, print-makers, sculptors and photographers whose names remain anonymous and a collection of rare and disappearing folk art from around the world. All of these were purchased on a budget, traded for or found in markets here and abroad. One-of-a-kind art is everywhere and affordable. Apartment Therapy recently published a piece written by Sarah Coffey on this very subject. The piece below is from The Loaded Trunk, which was included in a group of affordable art work. The additional work is also from The Loaded Trunk and is From $25.00 to $200.00.


Miniatures from Rajasthan are intricate, small sized, colorful handmade folk paintings, executed with detail with very delicate brushwork The themes range from events, court life scenes, hunting scenes and wild life. $58.00

During the late nineteenth century, India established a printing Industry devoted to producing images of Hindu Gods and Goddesses. These kitschy posters are all over India, except these 3-D embellished gems were a special find! $75.00


These wonderful and amusing prints are all bicycles. I did not meet this artist, but was taken by these whimsical prints while in one of my favorite galleries in Hanoi. In a city that was once safe to use a bicycle you hardly see any now! $45.00


The hill tribes in the northern areas of Vietnam, Laos, Thailand and Burma use these divination masks during Taoist ceremonies. These vintage ceremonial masks worn by the village Shaman are best-fit when framed with contemporary flare. $200.00

High quality reproduction of Vietnam War era Propaganda poster. Collectible, unique and affordable art from Hanoi; they are great pieces added to a unique office wall of art. $60.00

Vintage Mexican movie posters add cinematic scope to any entertainment area with movie melodrama.
$25.00

Often framing is more expensive then the art. The artwork above was all framed by yours truly. Using reduced priced frames from local framers, glass cut to fit from an inexpensive glass vendor and mat board professionally cut or by yourself.

The move...to NYC!

2010-11-14T16:28:00.000-08:00

My daughter just moved to NYC! This is very exciting for her, but for me, well I have East Coast genes and have always loved Manhattan; its energy, eccentricities, and constant stimuli make it one of the greatest cities in the world. I don't see myself living there full time, I have been spoiled by the ease of living in the Midwest for too long. Which is why I am delighted that she has moved there: this means lots of visits, buying trips, and discovering of new trends, designs, and styles. Last year in NYC we scoured the local markets and found some great African beads and attended a Tibetan Buddhist ceremony at St. John the Divine Episcopal Church. I incorporated the beads into multicultural necklaces with beads from Turkey, Thailand, and Mexico and the beautiful Tibetan thangkas that we saw reminded me of the Vietnamese Yao ceremonial masks on The Loaded Trunk.

An array of colorful African beads in the markets of NYC.

A necklace on the loaded trunk using all African beads.

A necklace combining African glass beads and a Thai Buddhist amulet.

A Tibetan thangka on display at St. John the Divine.

A beautiful Tibetan sculpture which reminds me of my Burmese golden Buddhas.

While my daughter felt like the guy on the left after her move, she giggled at the eccentricities of the city.

I'd love to hear from you if you'd like to share your favorite NYC moments or give some tips on the best markets, restaurants, and hidden gems of the city that pop up as quickly as they fade into the next trend.

Diwali: Festival of Lights

2010-11-05T10:31:00.000-07:00

Diwali, or Deepavali is the most important festival of the year in India and Sri Lanka. A 5 day Hindu festival, The Festival of Lights celebrates the triumph of good over evil and the triumphant return of Lord Rama. Upon his return the people of Ayodhya (the capital of Rama) celebrated Lord Rama's return by illuminating the countryside with clay oil lamps. This tradition is still practiced today.

A traditional oil lamp.

A coconut lantern from the loaded trunk.

I was recently in India with my daughter on a rather crazy and intense 2 month jaunt through the northern region of this fascinating country. Unfortunately, our trip did not coincide with Diwali but we were fortunate enough to experience many holy rituals throughout the holy sites and cities that we visited. One that stays with me is our time spent in the city of Varanasi. Considered to be the holiest of Hindu cities in the world, the literal center of the earth in Hindu cosmology, Varanasi is filled with holy people, celebrations, and temples.


The nightly ritual honoring the Mother Ganga.

A local Varanasi boy lighting candles in remembrance of the deceased.
(photos taken by the loaded trunk)

As I was sitting here writing this I opened my inbox to find this lovely Diwali greeting that I leave you with:

Dear All,

May the Divine Light of Diwali Spread into your Life Peace, Prosperity, Happiness and Good Health

Happy Diwali to you & and your family.

Dia de los Muertos

2010-11-01T14:20:00.000-07:00

As many of us are recovering from candy gluttony and costumed frenzies many Mexicans are preparing for the Day of the Dead. This beautiful holiday is celebrated throughout Mexico tomorrow, November 2, to honor those loved ones who have passed on. While many may think this is a macabre and strange holiday filled with sugar skulls, dancing skeletons, and hours passed at graveyards, the Day of the Dead is a compassionate, mindful celebration of those missed. Mexicans prepare for All Souls Day by preparing the favorite foods and drinks of those who have passed and spending the day with family and friends at the graveside of the departed. My daughter, the obsessive collector of dolls, has many Day of the Dead dolls that I have on display throughout my house. As I was admiring these beautifully crafted ceramic and papier mache skeletons I decided to blog about this often misunderstood holiday and to share some photos of these enigmatic figures.


Papier mache dolls with some spooky fall gourds.

A fraction of my daughter's ceramic collection.

Some papier mache figures more on the spooky side.

A doll I spotted on my recent buying trip to MX at the Museum in Morelia.

And, finally, if you wish to introduce some Day of the Dead into your home, I have a number of handmade jewelry boxes that I picked up recently in MX.

So tomorrow, if you happen to think of those who have passed, think of them fondly and perhaps cook their favorite meal for dinner.

Rue Debuts and Delivers

2010-10-21T12:56:00.000-07:00

There has been quite a buzz about the new online magazine Rue. It premiered just last month with a fabulous party in NYC which I unfortunately missed. Rue is a result of a collaboration between the talented duo Anne Sage of The City Sage and Crystal Gentillo of Plush Palate, two well known bloggers who co-founded Rue along with a group of behind-the-scenes talent.

A few of The Loaded Trunk's treasures were included in this issue's shoot. It was so exciting to see some of my things borrowed and put to use with Rue's creative styling.

Crystal's living room with a Herki rug from The Loaded Trunk

I love the light in her bedroom with the Mexican bedspread from The Loaded Trunk. Notice the fabulous leopard print jacket in the mirror.


They so creatively used the dreamy silk ikat from Thailand as a floor cover. (All photography Rue Magazine)

The photography, styling and writing in this first issue put this team of dynamic women in a group of exclusive magazine editors already. I can't wait to see what they have in store for the next issue due out in early November. Look for it at http://ruemag.com/. Thanks to Anne, Crystal, and their great design team for supporting small businesses!

Unmasked & Adorned

2010-10-19T17:56:00.000-07:00

The Loaded Trunk is gearing up for our first real holiday season. Last year was the dress rehearsal. Here are some of my favorite new things, from Mexico, Turkey, Argentina and Thailand.

There is still time to sign up for our $100 worth of jewelry so please TAKE ADVANTAGE of us!

The Collectors

2010-10-12T19:38:00.000-07:00

I have a serious addiction. I am a collector by nature. It started from growing up abroad and picking up bits and pieces in other countries. This quickly turned into a textile/platters/artwork sort of obsession. Soon I was surrounded by too many things so I decided to start the Loaded Trunk to share some of the treasures (and to allow me to continue collecting). I am, however, not alone in my quest to collect.

My daughter Ryan has collected dolls since she was little. Here is a peek into one of her many doll-filled chests:

My son Michael has collected masks for years. Here are some of the fantastic masks on his wall:

My brother Stuart somehow began collecting Hellman's Mayonnaise jars which he hoards in overflowing kitchen cabinets. (No picture needed!)

My good friend Kelly has been an avid collector of American folk art for many years now and has an impressive collection. Here are some of her pieces recently exhibited at an Outsider Art show.

Kelly also has a terrific blog chronicling her journeys

As I am constantly collecting, buying, selling, and trading, I wonder what you collect? I would love to hear from all of you to try to incorporate your passions into my work as well.

The Perfect Little Boy+The Loaded Trunk=Global Kids

2010-10-03T22:20:00.000-07:00

When you are the ruler of your domain, owner of your own business, wearer of many hats one always must be prepared to change them, and fast! Last week during a planned photo shoot, at my home, which is also my warehouse, studio and office, I got a call early the morning of the shoot from my son saying he needed to bring my grandson, over for the day. They had forgotten there was no school that day. Oops...Rather then changing gears and re-scheduling the photographer I just went with the flow and figured it would work itself out. Tina the photographer and I would have a 4 year old helper. Oh, and we did.

sorry, this woolly snake is not longer available, a fair days wage for the perfect little boy.

He was amazing! It was such fun... Look for these shots in the new Global Kids category up on The Loaded Trunk soon.

Sunday morning at the Country Plaza Art Fair

2010-09-26T13:53:00.000-07:00

Big weekend in Kansas City. The 19th annual UnPlaza Art Fair at the KC Art Institute, the 79th Country Club Plaza Art Fair, a Chiefs game (I think? everyone is wearing red) to name only a few. Camera in hand and market boots on, I headed out early to beat the crowds at the Country Club Plaza Art Fair.


roni's market boots

The Plaza Art Fair is considered one of the best in the country. I usually love markets and fairs for the fantastic people watching. I have determined after years of living in KC, the people watching is NOT so exciting at these events, lots of sweatsuits and eating. Not much is left of the old guard anymore on the Plaza. The independent owners of retail stores and restaurants have been slowly replaced by big box stores and restaurants like in much of the USA. But the Plaza is a beautiful place and the Spanish influenced architecture never disappoints.


early morning set up

Favorite art booths

I am in the process of creating a new category on the loaded trunk for kids, clearly my favorite spots today reflect this focus!

Favorite people

Favorite store windows

It is a beautiful crisp fall like day in KC and this was a perfect way to spend part of it.

roni

Motivation

2010-09-23T19:37:00.000-07:00

I have been off the grid. Back from Mexico for almost 2 weeks now cataloging, photographing, describing and doing all of the behind-the-scenes stuff which, while not so exciting and glamorous, is essential for all these things that help get me planning my next journey. Today I stopped for a moment to read a link to a blog that I love but have been too busy to read: coco+kelley. I love that she has several new guest bloggers that have infused a new perspective. Yesterday's guest blogger, who hosts her own fantastic fashion blog Fuji Files, chose the Hmong tribe (of the Golden Triangle which forms Northern Laos, Burma, and Thailand) and their amazing traditional weavings and textiles.


Hmong women in traditional costumes. Photo courtesy of coco+kelley

It is only September but in January I am going to S.E. Asia for a month or so. I have been on the internet and phone all morning looking for the best fare I can find. I was annoyed and needed a break so I opened a few emails and photos of these amazing Hmong women popped up and I got goose bumps. I love S.E. Asia. My roots run deep there. I have a brother in Thailand, went to high school in Hong Kong, lived in Taiwan and Japan and have traveled all over. If I ever have to choose a place that I am most drawn it is Southeast Asia: the food, crafts and cultural traditions always call me. As a buyer I don't feel like I have to begin carving the silk road, there are so many talented artisans who are already on it and are thrilled to work with someone as small as the loaded trunk.

Seeing coco+kelley's blog post got me over my annoyance and reminded me why I do this in the first place: to continue my travels and experiences all over the world.

To bring some Hmong traditions into your home, please check out The Loaded Trunk where I have stocked some intricately beautiful Hmong blankets and rare Yao Ceremonial Masks.

Photo's from The Loaded Trunk.

Off to finalize my next travel plans...

Me encanta México

2010-09-14T12:58:00.000-07:00

I just returned from a trip to Mexico. The people, crafts, colorful history, diversity and preparation for the Bicentennial were evident in every town I visited.

I was there for a buying trip for The Loaded Trunk, so my museum time was limited. As an art lover the "Museo de Arte Popular" in Mexico City is a highlight and one I never miss. It always inspires me.

This is one of the newer museums, opening on 2006 and is my favorite museum in Mexico City. It is the showcase for Mexican roots, traditions and artisan skills. The museum is housed in a beautiful contemporary space, an art deco fire station that has been refurbished and is full of folk art from different regions of Mexico. The works include outstanding examples of textiles, pottery, woodcarvings, papier mache, paper cuttings, metal work, glass work and more, all displayed over several floors. The building has a central "glassed-in" atrium that is airy and light allowing many of the galleries to be open and bright. It is the leader of venues for Mexican Folk Art and a must see...


The Atrium filled with kites during a visit a couple of years ago

This visit was on Sunday so all but the 1st floor gallery were closed. Art from all regions depicting historical scenes leading to both the Independence of Mexico in 1810 and scenes leading to the Revolution in 1910 were displayed, each with an historical story and time period of the event. If you do not read Spanish, I suggest you bring along a friend who does, as I did!

Photos by Roni at the Museo Arte de Popular

I only wish I had more time to be there for what I am sure will prove to be a fantastic celebration!

Photo by Roni in Morelia of some Bicentennial decorations

Mexico City Market Day 1

2010-09-04T19:13:00.000-07:00

I love my job. It's hard work being out here hunting and tracking, but someone has to do it!

No, it really IS hard work. In most cases, the day begins with me not being able to speak the native language. I feel my way through by checking prices, quality, getting ideas on how I could use something. It's easier for me because my philosophy is to buy local and in small quantities, and to choose things that reflect the culture—both traditonal and modern. In other words, I wing it. I buy what I like, and at the end of the day, hope it all makes sense. I usually haul everything to my hotel room and lay it out like you would if you just got a Christmas or birthday haul. Then I look at it, photograph it, and try to remember the stories that I learned about how each piece was made or where it was from.

Carlos, my friend and fellow hunter. Sweet shrimp soup and chili's 50 pesos.

I'm feeling pretty good so far on this second day in Mexico City. Job well done, Roni. Off for a Margarita!

Timeless and Distracting

2010-09-02T16:31:00.000-07:00

I love the the blog Style Court, by Courtney Barnes. We all have our favorites and sometimes reading them causes me to procrastinate in a big way.

Case in point: I am leaving tomorrow for a 10-day buying trip to Mexico and haven't packed yet. I'm frantically responding to emails, mailing packages, working on new marketing plans, and meeting with a friend who will oversee The loaded Trunk while I travel in search of new treasures.

I get an email that Courtney posted "Timeless". It struck a chord with me, as many of her posts do. She refers to a picture she has saved for years of Ricky Lauren on her horse wearing an RL fringed jacket. I stopped everything I was doing because I have a version of this jacket and still wear it! So I pulled out my boots and jacket, took some pictures and sent them to her. (Okay, that's one hour I shouldn't have stolen. Moving on.)

Detail view, framed photo of Ricky Lauren on her horse, part of a desktop tablescape in the Lauren house as pictured in Ralph Lauren.

I sent Courtney a short email, knowing it would make her smile, and smiled myself when she added this to her post:

Update: 9:52 p.m.
Roni Jaco, owner of the textiles, art and housewares shop, The Loaded Trunk, did hang on to her authentic Ralph jacket. Smart woman. (Thanks for pulling it out of the closet Roni!)

I'm so new to this world of blogging, but I'm already cherishing relationships like this. I am certain they'll become timeless! Timeless procrastination with benefits.

Adios! See you when I return from Mexico. If you'd like to follow along, come join me on Facebook.

Have a safe and wonderful Labor Day weekend.

Count Down To Mexico

2010-08-27T20:09:00.000-07:00

Got my boots!

Got my pictures from one of my scouts ( a friend currently in Mexico doing volunteer work).

Look at these gorgeous embroideries.

I am so excited to explore , discover and bring back beautiful new pieces for The Loaded Trunk.

Spending the weekend in Mexico City hitting the flea markets and after that I am on the loose. I haven't firmed up my itinerary yet. I would love suggestions. I leave next Friday.

Spain and the Wine Road

2010-08-23T12:28:00.000-07:00

Longing...Yearning...I Miss You...in Portuguese. "The famous saudade of the Portuguese is a vague and constant desire for something that does not and probably cannot exist, for something other than the present, a turning towards the past or towards the future; not an active discontent or poignant sadness but an indolent dreaming wistfulness". A.F.G. Bell
This sounds way heavier then It should for a Monday but yesterday I was organizing my photos on my computer. I think I have 3000 shots still on my hard drive. I have backed them up 5 times but can not seem to hit delete! None of this has anything to do with Portugal. In my past life I spent many years in the wine industry. I usually don't miss a bit of it! I still drink wine and eat well. While finally cleaning up my photos I came across my last wine trip that I took across Spain with my good friend and wine importer extraordinaire Steve Miles that gave me the feeling of dreamy wistfulness.


Old Vines

Gathering for a feast in NW Spain on the river bank drinking Albarino.


Our main course! Not your everyday Octopus on US menus. Amazing, I think this may have been breakfast?

This crazy Frankensteinish wine tasting lab in Rioja. Me hard at work.


OMG..Amazing Jamon, after the hard work of tasting wine all day.


Fast forward to Eastern Spain in the Penedes region..Oysters, Cava, and hammocks.

Last leg of our trip, Cheers.

An Artist's Space

2010-08-20T07:52:00.000-07:00

Starting a new business on a small budget and sustaining it as it grows requires lots of creativity, resourcefulness and a little help from your friends. On a recent trip to Santa Fe Folk Art Market I stayed with an old friend, Pauline Ziegen, an artist, who I had not seen in at least 10 years. We had recently re-connected through facebook and she generously opened her home to me. I knew that she was still painting, but had no idea how honed her craft had become.

The first night we had dinner and then she was off to Houston for an opening of her work at Laura Rathe Gallery.

Each evening after the Folk Art Market I would head back to her place with a bottle of wine and some goodies from Trader Joes (we have no trader joes in KC) and sit on the deck and look over the tracks at the peaceful New Mexico horizon. Like a voyeur, I took these shots during my stay.

Paulines work space

works in progress

A trip tic by Pauline works to create a feminine yet bold space with the Kantha coverlet I brought for her.


A signature of Pauline's; some of her hats and a finished painting of hers.

Painting in progress

A terrific collection of jackets

Travel Fever and Mexico City

2010-08-14T11:25:00.000-07:00

I have been home all summer planning my next trips, getting my "ducks" in a row. Collaborating with wonderful women on how to take my business to the next level. So, I haven't done much of what I am the best at doing "Woman Shops Globe". Whenever I start feeling restless I look at pictures of where I have been, my favorite markets, meals, foods and dream of where I am going next! I am planning a quick jaunt to Mexico City, a place that provides me with constant inspiration!

A lovely weekend flea market in Roma District in Mexico City. Roma probably has more 19th-century mansions per square meter than anywhere else in the city.


Xochimilco, on the outskirts of Mexcico City, is originally known for the canal system built by the Aztecs. Today it is more like bumper boats(trajineras) as it gets crowded with boats filled with locals making a family day of it, partying and often eating from the many floating kitchens called chalupas.


This old Milagro necklace from a Museum in Mexico City inspired the necklace below available at The Loaded Trunk.


Milagro and turquoise necklace from The Loaded Trunk

Wedding Season?

2010-08-10T22:35:00.000-07:00

Is there a wedding season? I actually have no idea. I can't believe it would be August though. In the mid-west it has been grueling, with temperatures well above 100% with heat index's of 116%. I guess if I could be assured of a controlled COOL environment...Who knows.

I have been thinking about weddings for a few days. Friday evening I unsealed myself from my hermetically sealed COOL environment to go see a couple of friends who had set up their wedding wares in a local Salon for 1st Friday, a free art stroll in the Crossroads District, where there is a concentration of art galleries. The event was "Something Borrowed Something Blue" at BeSpoke Salon and was styled artfully by Linh Trieu.


Vintage wares table settings by Vintage Vessels flowers by Rebecca Thao with a petite Balinese umbrella as the center piece available at the loaded trunk

Jeanne Rohner greeted us at the door, in her fantastic vintage gown, Va va va voom! The "brides" were having their hair done, there were several artist/vendors showing off their talents, and then there was the baker! No matter what time of year a wedding is, I realized that for me it is all about the food. This is the part I still remember after a short marriage a long time ago! Hmmm!


This modest but fabulous wedding cake is just perfect, by Rachel Feldkamp, I love the Tibetan Prayer like flags above the Bride and Groom

OMG, I so wanted to cut into this grooms cake by Rachel Feldkamp

Cookies by Rachel Feldkamp

SOOO cute, cookies by Rachel Feldkamp(all photo's from above by Jeanne Rohner and Roni Jaco)

So to finish it off the dress's for the bride and her bridesmaids. Vera Wang gets my pick for gowns.

Vera Wang 'Estelle' Fall 2010 (photo from Vera Wang) Stunning


The perfect versatile bridesmaids dress by Cynthia Rowley, your friends will love you, it's under $200.00 (photo from House of Brides)

So I hear that the cakes and cookies taste as good as they looked. I bought a piece in Chaing Mai, Thailand by a well known pewter artist that would showcase one of these cakes brilliantly.

from the loaded trunk

Maybe I will get to use it for one of Rachel's cakes.

Calm

2010-08-09T05:46:00.000-07:00

The City Sage did a post yesterday, and the pallet from the Canadian House and Home September 2010 edition was so calming. My world is one of vibrant color 24/7; so the almost grey and white with a splash of minimal color really resonated with me. The last picture in the piece is this fantastic personal primping space below and offers those lovers of the beautiful Otami Indian Mexican embroidery one more decorating option.

Image courtesy of Canadian House and Home magazine.

Style Court recently included an Otami Indian Mexican coverlet from The Loaded Trunk in a story board called Michael joins Keith. Lucky me to be included with such design royalty!

Mexican textile via The Loaded Trunk. Shown on the left, Mexican flag and church; on the right, Michael Smith's assistant Maya sits on a sofa in Casamidy -- both scenes from Man Shops Globe, episode seven, season two, from Sundance Channel.]

These beautiful pieces are so versatile, as headboards, hangings, table clothes or bed spreads. I love the smaller ones also for the end of the bed or across a chest!

Photo from the loaded trunk

Stop by and take advantage of our 25% Off the large coverlets through Friday the 13th.

Highs and Lows

2010-08-08T09:48:00.000-07:00

Earlier this summer I was in NYC and did some comparative pricing, and with my trusty pocket Cannon elf took a few shots! The particular store I stopped in is a favorite of mine, but frankly more for their marketing then their good value. So I usually leave empty handed with a few ideas. Delightfully reminded that without brick and mortar I am able to keep my costs down and this translates to VERY competitive pricing from The Loaded Trunk.


Brand X from same dealer in Jaipur ($250.)

We are running a sale on our cotton kanthas from Jaipur in several gorgeous colors and all other Quilts and Coverlets, so take advantage of us as the sale will extend Through Friday the 13th!

the loaded trunk ($175. less 25%)

These soft and lightweight colorful Kantha are from Jaipur. All are hand-sewn with running stitches that vary in color and have a complementary solid color on the reverse side. The desert region of Rajasthan is filled with forts and is breathtaking yet monochromatic. It offers most of it's color through it's people. They dress themselves, their animals and their rides with the color that seems to be missing in the landscape.


Color of the Rajasthani landscape (photo by Ryan Jaco)


Colorful sari's(photo by Ryan Jaco)


Colorful footwear from Jodphur, Rajasthan-available at the loaded trunk (photo by Ryan Jaco)

Colorful friend of the desert (photo by Ryan Jaco)

Goods Carrier- typical truck (photo by Ryan Jaco)

Fresh figs, KitchenAid, Turkish Ceramics

2010-08-03T09:19:00.000-07:00

My daughter is working her way across the USA for a visit to Kansas City. For the past year she has been hurling hints about wanting a KitchenAid. This morning we spoke and she told me her boyfriend James had gotten her one for her birthday next week, Aahhhh!

Ryan working her way across country

This week I have had all kinds of action on these fabulous Turkish bowls on my site and found out that one of my favorite blogs, Apartment Therapy's the Kitchn, mentioned them in the context of ice cream, figs and KitchenAids. Three of my favorite things. I want to share this fantastic recipe and the new blog I discovered.

Turkish bowls from the loaded trunk

Fresh Fig Ice Cream – The New Taste of Summer (from Tastespotting the blog)

This feature is sponsored by KitchenAid, who is letting us play every day in the TasteSpotting kitchen with a stand mixer and a full suite of stand mixer attachments.

Figs.

Fresh Fig Ice Cream Recipe

From David Lebovitz’s The Perfect Scoop

Ingredients

2 lbs fresh figs (about 20)
½ cup of water
1 lemon, preferably unsprayed
¾ cup of sugar
1 cup of heavy cream
½ teaspoon of freshly squeezed, lemon juice, or more to taste

Directions

Remove the hard stem ends from the figs, then cut each fig into 8 pieces. Put the figs in a medium, nonreactive sauce pan with the water, and zest the lemon directly into the saucepan. Cover and cook over medium heat, stirring occasionally, for about 8-10 minutes until the figs are tender.

Remove the lid, add the sugar and continue to cook until it reaches a jam-like consistency. Remove from the heat and let cool to room temperature. Blend together with cream and lemon juice, chill in the fridge and then put in your ice cream maker per the manufacturer’s instructions.

Here you have it Ryan. The bowls we hunted for in Turkey, the Kitchen Aid you have been dreaming of and a perfect 1st recipe to make in it.

Aha Moments

2010-08-01T13:54:00.000-07:00

I was filmed earlier this week by the Mutual of Omaha. They are traveling to 20 some cities around the USA talking to people about what their Aha moment in life was. A quote from their sight, "Aha moments are powerful. More than an idea, or an epiphany, aha moments demand attention and action. Deciding on a new career. Jumping out of an airplane. Launching an international philanthropy, or becoming a fire dancer. "
We were was asked to bring a prop. I brought my tinned copper Turkish pitcher with me, sort of like my blankie, and a group of my travel postcards that I use as marketing pieces for my website the loaded trunk.


Tinned Copper Pitcher from the loaded trunk

Travel cards created in collaboration with Linh Trieu

The pitcher represented a defining moment in my life. The travel cards are photographs that have captured some of my Aha moments.

The end result of this tour for the Mutual of Omaha is to pick 7 or so people from this large group to represent them in a commercial. It is an interesting idea so I thought it would be fun to be a part of this piece of Americana they are trying to capture.

When they started filming and asking specific questions about what my Aha moment was, what the pitcher represented etc. I realized that there was not just one Aha moment for me: life is a chain of Aha moments, and I am always thinking of ways to get to next one.

Mutual of Omaha Take 1-Aha Moment

After exhausting myself thinking of life changing moments for the interview, I came home and spent the weekend relaxing and thought I would share a few of my mini Aha drinks!

Spinach, cucumber, lime, honey smoothie....YUM
Large handful of organic spinach
1 medium(peeled) cucumber from the Austins garden(any peeled fresh will do)
Juice of a juicy lime
Tablespoon of organic honey
1 cup of ice
I have a blender not a fancy juicer like many of my friends and this worked like a charm.


Inspired by Kelli Austin (photographed on Ikat runner from the loaded trunk)

Watermelon, white peaches, pomegranate juice smoothie
1-2 cups of watermelon, I just chunk and toss it in with seeds and all
1-2 ripe white flesh peaches( it is what I had on hand)
Splash of unsweetened pomegranate juice
1 cup of ice
Toss all in blender (or your fancy vita mix) and drink
I have been drinking these alcohol free but a few friends has suggested a nice rum might just mellow your evening.

Watermelon and peach smoothie (photographed on Ikat runner from the loaded trunk))