Saint Ansgar

 

The morning after our arrival, the Bittersweet Sisters took a trip to a new destination for us,

Saint Ansgar, Iowa.

 



 

Immediately upon arriving, we were beckoned into a little alley that was so welcoming.

I think the sign should have read no garden gnome on duty ;)

 

I would have loved to find a little bench to sit and stitch here.

 

For such a tiny space the meandering path was very endearing.

But the stores were calling us and it was time to shop.

 

 

Home Sweet Home has such unique home décor and fashions.

 

Then we saw another little interesting alley that hinted at treasures to be found within.

 

A wonderful chockfull antique store. I would stand in one place and just pivot around trying to take it all in...

 

 These are the treasures that went home with me:

 

 

Including an instant collection of Gurley turkey candles ;)

See the tiny vial of small antique mother of pearl buttons in the center of the photo?

Well there is a second vial to be included in my giveaway at the end of the journey.

 

After all that shopping, it was time for lunch.

Our Bittersweet Sister, Nicki, arranged for us to have lunch at the sweetest bed & breakfast.

We were so sorry that Nicki was unable to join us!

 

Isn't it lovely?

 

I usually don't photograph a meal as I want to eat right away, but look at this!

Isn't it pretty?



 

And here is my cottage pie:



Yum!

 

Here are the Bittersweet Sisters, although it just wasn't the same without Nicki:

 

 

 After lunch, it was time to hit the road for our next stop

 

 

Country Threads in Garner, Iowa!

 



 

I am realizing that Country Threads needs its own post, so I will leave you with these photos of their wonderful barn where they were having a sale.

 

I'll be back soon with the continuing story.

 

Blessings, Patti

 

p.s. Wow! What a response to my new shoes. I'll tell you the manufacturers in my next post. But I did discover that the button clogs were last years style, so they are not readily available.