I’m the happiest when I’m working and the work is working. I’m frustrated when editors are unnecessarily nitpicky, but still insist/persist they want me to use “my voice.” Fortunately, working with New York Times was easy like a Sunday morning.

Back in December of 2025 I pitched the idea of a typical Puerto Rican guisa, but with hefty toothstome meatballs. Yup, it took five months from fruition to publication. But, it was such a fun process and I loved working with Adina Steiman (Senior Staff Editor, NYT Cooking at The New York Times) who’ve I’ve known since 2021 when she was still on staff at Food & Wine! It’s particularly comforting to work with familiar names and faces since I find most of the people I started with back in 2017 have moved on from the industry.

I know this recipe doesn’t come with a traumaporn story about my family or my struggles…and it’s SO nice not to be asked for that shit when all I want to do is share a delicious recipe with the world.

Anyway - I hope you make this recipe. And to encourage you to make this recipe I’m passing along a free gift link! I don’t know how long these links work for. COOK IT NOW! Hopefully the link works. Let me know.

MEATBALL GUISADA RECIPE

Don’t forget that you can make this with zucchini as it is the season! I added carrots, papas and zukes. I also add leafy greens as they come into the season. I add whatever the hell I feel like and you can too! Show me what you’ve added and tag me on Instagram.

Thanks to everyone who “attended” the annual online sale.

I’m sensing that there have been a few quiet shifts towards the sale; whether it be economical, email fatigue, or that Substack and Google are filtering my shit. With that being said, I might have one more online sale this December. But, I think this thing has ran its course. Thank you all for the fun!

TRIGGER WARNING - Mention of death.

The Nereidas walked in to the restaurant and stopped at the long, brown, counter. The counter was a classic coffee shop style counter built in the 1970s with barely spaced swivel stools that had upholstered seats and chrome extremities. The Nereidas waited to be seated.

“Haven’t seen you two in a while,” Tina said.

“We know!” the Nereidas unintentionally said in unison.

Tina was a server that was just as much part of the institution as the building itself. Out of the 50 plus years Mr. Perry’s had been opened, she’d been there for over 30. Her short, black, bob was neatly coiffed and perfectly suited for someone who ran calls on short orders all day. If life was hard on her, you couldn’t tell.

But, Little Nereida had brought her mother to their favorite diner to deliver some news.

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Read more

This time we’re getting a little niche. I’ve included some local artists I collect, like the Patricia Garrett pottery. There’s also an Art Section, Knife Section, a Puerto Rican Section and a Book Section all the way at the bottom.

Also - I owe someone a spatula and I can’t remember who it is. Message me!

THE FIRST HOUR IS FOR PAID SUBSCRIBERS!

6AM - 7AM Paid Subscribers will get first dibs on the items for sale.

Subscribe now

After 7AM the email will be released to all subscribers.

PURCHASING: DM me right here on Substack with the lot number, your offer and the time of day you’re reaching out to me. (ex: Lot 25, offering $25, it’s 8:13AM, 8/12/25)

Please do not DM me on social media or text message me, it gets very confusing to keep track. Yes…even if I know you IRL…please…for the love of all that is holy…message me on Substack.

DISCLAIMER: Some of these items were purchased from the thrift store, yard and estate sales. They may still have that “smell,” from wherever they came from, they made need a deep cleaning with hot water and Dawn dish detergent and some have sticker residue.

HAGGLING REQUIRED! That’s part of the fun. If you really don’t feel comfortable doing that or just don’t wanna bother, that’s ok too.

PAYMENTS: Venmo, Paypal or CashApp. You can also send a check if you’d like and I’ll ship once I receive the check.

SHIPPING: I will not deliver to your house. This is an online only sale. For large and delicate items, shipping will more than likely be USPS flat rate priority mail. Which is expensive, but reliable. By request, I will weigh and measure for a more specifically targeted cost. I promise to attempt to find more reasonable shipping for each item. Just anticipate paying the rates below. Will combine shipping on small and medium sized items.

Shipping is expensive. USPS has risen their prices “temporarily” twice in the last 6 months.

USPS FLAT RATE LARGE BOX - $30.00

USPS FLAT RATE MEDIUM BOX - $20.00

USPS FLAT RATE PADDED ENVELOPE - $12.00

EXAMPLE: If you you purchase an item for $100, then your total would be $100 + $30.00 = $130.00

If you have a shipping account and would like to send me a prepaid shipping label, I will absolutely accept.

LOT 1 - $5 MYSTERY BOX!

15 mystery boxes will be available! The mystery box contains…a mystery. Duh. Could be dishes, could be a chef’s knife, could be a box of salt, could be the little beat up Le Creuset pot (pobrecito) I found at the bins, could be silverware, linen, food related artwork.

Want to take a gamble and see what comes up?

LOT 2

1960s Mid Century Modern Norsk Stålpress Norstaal Maya Flatware. Ten-piece. Made in Norway. 12-12 | SOLD

The Maya cutlery set was originally designed in 1962 by Norwegian designer Tias Eckhoff for the company Norsk Stålpress (often marked Norstaal) and is one of the most recognizable pieces of Scandinavian design in stainless cutlery. It has been in continuous production since the 1960s, and the series is listed in design classics by Phaidon and featured in museums such as MoMA and the Victoria and Albert Museum.

Over time, Norstaal became part of the Danish design brand Stelton. The newer versions you see today are sold under Stelton branding and are all made from stainless steel, marked 18/8 (shown on the back of the cutlery). 18/8 is the current standard for kitchen/stainless flatware.

12/12 was the older stainless alloy grade from the 1960s–70s era. This listing is marked 12/12 making it part of the original Mid Century Modern production line.

LOT 3

Vintage 1960s VARCO Coffee Spice Grinder Spice. Made in France. WORKS! | SOLD

The Vintage Varco Coffee Grinder Spice Herb Orange 228.1.00 is an electric coffee grinder made in France, featuring a distinctive orange color. This vintage grinder is a collectible item perfect for any kitchen or home decor enthusiast. Its retro design and functionality make it a unique addition to any kitchen, adding both style and practicality to the space. Whether used for grinding coffee beans or storing herbs and spices, this vintage Varco coffee grinder is sure to be a conversation starter.

3.5” diameter 7” tall

In great condition. Works great.

LOT 4

1970s Kitchen Cat Spoon Rest Holder Clear Lucite Resin | $15

The back rubber panel of the spoon rest has a small chip. Middle photo. 6’’ x 3’’

LOT 5

Vintage 1950s Accent MSG Salt Shaker Set Large Glass Owens-Illinois Glass Co | $10

These tiny and cute vintage 1950s glass shakers feature a striking red top, adding a unique and nostalgic touch to any collection. The original design of this set makes it a rare find for collectors of vintage kitchen decor, and the vibrant red color adds a pop of color to any space. Perfect for those interested in retro advertising and food and beverage memorabilia, this shaker set is a charming piece that is sure to stand out in any display.

4-inch glass bottles made by the Owens-Illinois Glass Company.

- #9 on the left is for the plant code (Streator, IL)

- #50 date code on right (1950)

- #7 number -below logo (mold cavity)

The pepper shaker has a flaw (see photos), it’s almost like it was melted from being too close to heat? The cap attaches, but it’s unstable like when you have to pry it off with a butter knife.

LOT 6

RARE Vintage Pyrex 9 cup percolator. 7759H A-2. Complete Set. | $150

This is actually one of my personal pieces. I’ve had this iconic percolator for years. I never used it. Just liked to look at it and appreciated having something rare and old. Has the basket, stem, and lid. All in great working condition. Ready to be used.

6 inches diameter x 7 inches in height. Needs a wash.

7759 is the manufacturing code for the body of the 6 cup. Contoured glass handle was produced between 1948–1949; the handle design changed from a straight model to a more contoured shape.

The letter H refers specifically to the handle, in case you needed a replacement.

Here are some examples of this percolator in television and movies.

LOT 7

Incomplete 6 cup Pyrex percolator. 7756-B | $40

This is just the body. Does not have the mechanisms to percolate. But, can still be used to boil water for pour overs or water for instant soups.

LOT 8

Vintage Pyrex 6283-U 1.5 Quart Bain Marie Double Boiler Insert | $10

There’s a bottom piece that goes into this. I don’t have it, but I included a photo of it and some listings on eBay you might be interested in.

EXAMPLE of bottom base.

LOT 9

1970s wooden wall-mounted kitchen rack for light tools and tchotchkes | SOLD

15’’ x 3’’

LOT 10

Vintage 1980s Sears & Roebuck 7 Piece Country Cooking Utensil Set. New in box. Deadstock. | $15

I opened the box because I wanted to make sure everything was in there and someone just didn’t tape it up themselves. Brand new. Never been used.

LOT 11

Fiestaware Pitcher | SOLD

LOT 12

Vintage 1950s Stetson Marcrest 2 fruit bowls and 2 bread plates in the "Misty Pine" pattern. | $25

LOT 13

Stainless Steel/Aluminum Hen on Nest Trivet | SOLD

THE POTS AND PANS SECTION

LOT 14

SET Vintage Dansk Kobenstyle Dutch Ovens. Made in France. SOLD

I know, they’re not in the best condition. I tried to scrub the carbon away from the inside and I managed to get a lot off. The lady who previously owned these bought them brand new and used the hell out of them. They’ve been together for so long, I want to sell them together and I understand how ridiculous and unreasonable I am being.

LOT 15

RARE Vintage Dansk Kobenstyle Large Baking Tray/Dish Made in France | $30

Although this is a rare colorway, the pan isn’t in the best condition. It has chips all around the edge, and two inside. It’s still perfectly safe to use if you line it with foil or parchment.

LOT 16

12’’ All-Clad stainless steel skillet pan | SOLD

Found at the bins.

LOT 17

Dansk Kobenstyle Paella Casserole Pan | $40

Has a small chip on the upper interior.

LOT 18

Vintage Brown Le Creuset Pot #16 Made in France | $15

Exterior enamel is worn. Has a pockmark on the rim.

LOT 19

Antique Cold Handle Cowboy Frying Pan Carbon Steel Metal Skillet #42 9" | $20

These pans are known for their distinctive “cold handle” design that stays cool while cooking. They are ideal for campfires, providing a non-stick surface when seasoned. Has a pour spot on one side.

Made from stamped sheet carbon steel with flared sides and an integral, horizontal, molded, “cold” handle that is wrapped on top with tinned sheet metal to leave room for air inside; rounded end with reinforced hanging hole. Metal wrapping is stamped in relief “42.”

Don’t know the age. Just read on the National Museum of American History website that the golden age for production of these pans were “1880-1920.” This does not sit flat.

LOT 20

Vintage Birmingham Stove Range BSR Century Series No.7 Cast Iron Skillet 10 1/8" | SOLD

Birmingham Stove & Range (BSR) cast iron was produced in Alabama from the early 1900s until 1992. Renowned for its "Red Mountain" and "Century" series, BSR pans feature a distinctive heat ring. Sits flat. No warp.

LOT 21

Vintage #5 Unmarked Wagner Ware 8" Inch Cast Iron Skillet Frying Pan USA H Mark | $15

Sits flat. No warp. No cracks.

LOT 22

Vintage #10 Unmarked Wagner Ware 11 3/4” Inch Cast Iron Skillet Frying Pan USA | $25

Sits flat. No warp. No cracks. NEEDS a deep clean and an oil up. Found at the bins.

LOT 23

Made In CeramiClad Nonstick 2 Quart Saucepan Made in Italy Stainless Steel | $50

LOT 24

VTG Lodge #8 SK 3 Notch Skillet With Lid 10.5" Cast Iron Frying Pan 1965-1992 | SOLD

It’s rare to find cast iron pans with their lid. Now, whether this lid came with the pan originally I do not know. This is the way the old man had it, this is the way I found it in the old man’s house (he’s still living) and this is how I’m selling it.

LOT 25

Brown Le Creuset Dutch Oven, No Lid. Size B (2 quarts) | $10

Found at the bins.

The enamel is ashy and has lost its luster. I don’t know how to bring it back. However, the inside is still in great condition. Probably needs a good soak and a good scrub. It needs some love!

LOT 26

All-Clad 3 quart steamer insert w/LID for 3 and 4 quart All-Clad saucepan only | $10

Has some superficial scratch marks on the lid. Needs a good wash with some hot water, Dawn and Barkeepers friend.

9’‘ diameter

4’‘ height

LOT 27

Le Creuset Pot Blue with no Lid #26 | $15

Inside is a little rough. Has a few chips. Needs some elbow grease love. I’ve owned this for years and honestly never use it. Same with the red one.

LOT 28

Le Creuset Pot Red with no Lid #26 | SOLD

Inside is in great condition. I’ve also owned this for years and never use it.

LOT 29

Vintage Franciscan Discovery “Terra Cotta” Rectangular Loaf Pan MCM USA | SOLD

LOT 30

Sometimes I find random lids while I’m out shopping and it makes me sad. I can’t leave them behind.

Le Creuset Lid “E” | SOLD

Found at the bins.

LOT 31

Pair Nambè crystal candlesticks candle holders | $20

LOT 32

Arthur Salm Stainless Steel Carving Set Mid Century Modern Made in Austria | $10

LOT 33

1990s Rectangular Tray HEAVY Silver Toned | Wilton Armetale Reggae Style | $15

LOT 34

1970s Anchor Hocking Oil Vinegar Glass Bottles Cape Craft Pine North Carolina | $20

The bottles are marked on the bottom with the classic "H inside an anchor" logo that began being phased out in 1968. By the 1980s and beyond, the logo often transitioned to just the text "Anchor Hocking." Cape Craft Pine was sold and closed in 1984.

In great condition.

LOT 35

2 Antique Chocolate Molds Vormenfabriek Tilburg Holland Bear Pig / Anton Reiche | SOLD

These Dutch, post WWII, chocolatier molds were manufactured by VormenFabriek of Tilburg, the Netherlands. The company has been in business since 1921. The molds measure 3.25” x 2.5” at their widest and is held with one clip.

Both are in great condition. Some rust flecks on the hog. See photos.

LOT 36

Two Pyrex Pipkin, made by Corning Glass Works in Corning, NY, about 1935 | $20 each

Colorless non-lead borosilicate glass, mold-blown by machine and stamped. Described as having a bulbous shape, flared rim, neck flared out to body with a metal band around top of neck. Band circumference stamped with stylized wave design, handle attached to side of body by band and screw, handle curved with scroll design molded into sides at end. Top of body flared out, bottom portion rounded in. Flat circular base, stamped “Made in U.S.A. of PYREX Brand Glass” in green typography.

Main body: Non-lead Borosilicate Glass

Band: Aluminum

Handle: Plastic

In great condition.

LOT 37

VTG (4) Cobalt Blue Stem Coupe Champagne Glasses Dessert Ribbed Made Italy | SOLD

I actually have eight (8) of these glasses. I just thought it would be easier to move four at a time? Let me know if you’d like all 8 glasses.

Set of four vintage cobalt blue stem coupe champagne glasses made in Italy. They feature a ribbed design and come in a vibrant blue and clear color combination. Perfect for serving dessert or champagne in a stylish and elegant way, these glasses add a touch of sophistication to any table setting. Ideal for those who appreciate vintage pieces and Italian craftsmanship.

Have two sets of four. In great condition. No chips, cracks or crazing.

Measures 3.5” tall and 3.75” wide on top

LOT 38

Hand Carved Rustic Wooden Dough Fruit Bowl 12”x6 | SOLD

12” x 6”

In good used condition. Has a pretty big fault line crack at the bottom.

LOT 39

Vintage Tupperware Servalier Bowl SET Harvest Yellow Orange Green 836 838 840

$25

Vintage Tupperware Servalier Bowl SET from the 1970’s.

Yellow/Harvest Gold: 836-8

Burnt Orange: 838-8

Avocado Green: 840-8

The set includes bowls of various sizes, with corresponding starburst lids designed for a secure, instant seal.

In good used vintage condition, seal is tight, show some signs of use.

LOT 40

VTG MCM Dana DFA Denmark Stainless 2 Piece Serving Two Forks Scandinavian Design | SOLD

Made of high-quality stainless steel, the set features a silver color and a stylish handle material that is durable and easy to clean. The Danish brand Dana Denmark ensures a premium and authentic dining experience, making it a great addition to any kitchen or dining table.

In excellent condition. No warping or bending.

LOT 41

RARE 1984 SOPEXA Enamel Metal Serving Tray Map Cheeses of France Fromages de France | $20

A metal tin tray with a collage of 57 different French cheeses arranged geographically and numbered, ranging from soft Camembert (#1) to hard Mimolette (#33).

Pretty dusty. Needs a wipe down.

LOT 42

Pewter Tray. Made in Mexico by Betty Barrena. Heavy. 19’’ x 7’’ | SOLD

LOT 43

Vintage Santa Anita Ware “California Modern Canary Yellow” Cream & Sugar 5’’ height | $10

LOT 44

Rooster Stainless Steel Measuring Spoons | SOLD

THE KNIFE SECTION

LOT 45

Vintage Japanese/Chinese Meat Cleaver Chef Knife Stainless Steel Brass Handle | $100

Someone suggested that the knife was made in China for the Japanese market, or perhaps by a Chinese company that uses Japanese characters for branding. ​Functionality: The description of the knife being “very heavy on the handle” aligns with the use of a solid brass handle. This kind of weight distribution can feel a little different from a Western knife, but it’s not unusual for certain types of cleavers. It can also give the user a good sense of control for certain chopping motions.

LOT 46

Vintage LC GERMAIN Stainless Steel Japanese Knife Set | $20

LOT 47

Vintage Flint Vanadium Knife Carving Set Wooden Holder Made In USA Black Handle | $10

LOT 48

Kyoku Damascus Steel Shogun Series Kiritsuke Knife 8.5" Japanese VG10 | SOLD

LOT 49

JA Henckels Solingen Germany 6 Piece Knife Set Stainless Steel Zwilling with block | SOLD

8’‘ Chef’s Knife

8’‘ Carving Knife

8’‘ Serrated Knife

5.5’‘ Boning/Fillet Knife

4’‘ Serrated Knife

3’‘ Paring Knife

KNIFE BLOCK

Knives are in great condition. Could probably use some sharpening. Handles and knife block show some signs of wear. SEE PHOTOS.

No knicks on the blades. No warp or bending on the knives. No rust or verdigris on the bolsters.

LOT 50

1980s Zwilling JA HENCKELS Cleaver Knife Vintage Rostfrei Solingen Germany 8” | SOLD

LOT 51

RARE 1960s JA HENCKELS Friodur Chefs Knife Vintage 9” Blade Solingen Germany | $80

This is a vintage Friodur JA Henckels knife from the 1960s. “Fridour” refers to Henckels’ ice-hardening process, introduced in 1939 and patented in 1951. Logo is etched rather than deeply stamped, earlier knives (pre-1950s) tended to have deeper stamps. It has a simple wooden handle, three rivets and a minimal bolster.

In great vintage condition. Blade is still true. No pieces missing, or chipped, from the handle. There is some obvious wear on the bottom of the blade on one side. Doesn’t effect the knife.

LOT 52

Vintage 1950s - 1970s DEXTER Southbridge Mass 17'' Knife Brass Rivets S18912 | $30

Many vintage Dexter knives marked simply as “DEXTER” (without the Russell) or “Super Stainless” with wood handles date back to the 1950s through the 1970s. “Super Stainless” generally points to the postwar era when stainless steel became popular for commercial butchers.

Vintage “chopper” marked DEXTER S18912 made in Southbridge, Massachusetts. Super Stainless. Measures 17” long with handle, cleaver measures 12” and has a 3/4 tang.

Has some gunk and verdigris patina around the rivets and handle. Otherwise, the blade is in good condition.

LOT 53

VTG Set 8 Mid Century Modern Robinson Ecko Stainless USA Serrated Steak Knives | SOLD

There’s only seven in this photo because I found the other knife at a totally different time. All by its little self! Sad. Also, the blades aren’t messed up, I just got lazy and impatient with the sticker residue.

LOT 54

Russell International Set (2) 10” Chef Knives Stainless Steel 7604 NSF | SOLD

LOT 55

Vintage Queen Cutlery Knife Set | $15

LOT 55

Vintage Green “Flintwood” Melamine Salad Serving Utensils | $10

THE ART SECTION

This has nothing to do with food, I just bought too much art this year. I’ve been in a weird art buying phase. I don’t know why. Are my own walls covered in art? Yes! But, I don’t think there’s room for any more. Or else it’s gonna get weird.

LOT 56

Hedy Buzan Southern California Art Painting Monotype Framed 8x10 Almond Trees | $80

This is a “mini” monotype by Southern California artist Hedy Buzan who resides in Laguna Beach, Ca. The image is 3.5x 3” mat within a 8x10” frame.

Monotypes are unique, one-of-a-kind prints created by applying ink or paint to a smooth, non-absorbent surface like glass or metal and transferring it to paper. Known as the “painterly print,” this process allows for spontaneous, expressive art, with common methods including painting on and wiping off techniques.

Signed. No discoloration or fading. In great condition.

LOT 57

Original 14’‘ x 18’‘ Mosaic Style Painting California Mission Bells Signed | $10

LOT 58

1970s Original still life oil painting of glass pitcher and fruit Signed J. Marion // Matisse Fauvist style | $80

LOT 59

Debbie Mumm pattern cross stitch of stacked tea cups, framed. 12'' x 10'' | $10

LOT 60

RARE Christine Marais Framed Art Print Rockrunner Hartlaub's Francolin 2000 | $100

FREE SHIPPING

These are two signed prints that are professionally framed.

Christine Marais was a true gem for enthusiasts of nature art. This piece showcases a variety of birds of Namibia, rendered with remarkable detail and a vivid palette that brings the tranquil beauty of the flora and fauna to life. The print is elegantly framed, presenting a polished look that is ready to adorn any space.

Born and married in South Africa, Christine’s life and art transformed when she and her husband moved with their family to Namibia in 1970. In 2000 she illustrated a book called “Birding in Namibia,” and these are based off the illustrations included in the book.

30’‘ x 14.5’‘

In excellent condition.

LOT 61

Bob Marcello Framed Signed Original Lithograph Print Etching Black White | $10

11’‘ x 14’‘

In great condition. No chips, cracks, knicks or dents. Some water damage on the back (those brown spots).

LOT 62

Original Floral Watercolor Signed Framed Millicent S Watkins UC Davis, CA | $140

Millicent S Watkins was the wife of a local UC Davis apiarist professor, “a librarian and school teacher.”

16’‘ x 20’‘ framed and signed.

In great condition. No chips, cracks, knicks or dents. The edge of the frame has a black smudge. See photos.

LOT 63

SET Framed and Signed (Cathy B. 1992) Botanical Flower Paintings | $50

LOT 64

Veloy Vigil Etching Southwest Native American Pueblo Art TAOS New Mexico

$500 OBO

Number 40/65

The late Veloy Vigil (1931 – 1997) was a painter from Colorado. His mother was Indigenous Puebloan and his father was of Spanish-heritage. Veloy’s flowing abstract expressionist canvases, charged with color and spiritual energy, made him one of the most quietly influential figures in twentieth century Southwest art. For the last part of his life he lived and worked in Taos, New Mexico.

Frame is 28’‘ x 28’‘

Professionally framed in UV protective glass. Purchased at El Presidio Gallery in Tucson, AZ which closed in 2019.

In great condition. No rips, stains, discoloration, or holes.

LOT 65

SET 3 Terra Sancta Guild Cloisonné Faith Love Joy BOOKENDS 1967 Brass Celtic | $30

5.25” tall

3.75” wide

In great condition.

THE CERAMIC SECTION

LOT 66

Tue Poulsen Mid Century Modern Tea Pot Denmark from his Grey Stone Series SOLD

Stamped 735 on the underside, this teapot was made by the Danish sculptor Tue Poulsen. Tue (1939 - 2026 ) was a Danish ceramicist, visual artist, and designer with a diverse range of works and one of Denmark’s most well-known and respected ceramic artists. Tue passed away in January 2026 at the age of 89.

According to his website, this piece is from his “Retro, Gray Stone, Ceramics Series.” I included a photo from his catalog.

In excellent condition. No stains, cracking, crazing, nicks, or discoloration.

LOT 67

Patricia Garrett Ceramic Vegetables | $40 each

A) Squash

B) Eggplant

C) Zucchini

From 1980 to 2003 Patricia Garrett created and produced her lifelike functional pieces of decorative art in her studio in Berkeley, California. In her studio, called Great Impressions Ceramic Design, she crafted lifelike stoneware of fruit and vegetable with lead free glazes. This squash is signed and dated, 1996.

LOT 68

Vintage Studio Art Pottery Hand Thrown Stoneware Lidded Cookie Jar Signed. 1984. | $25

LOT 69

Handthrown Small Pottery Ceramic Ice Cream Lavender Bowl with Green Veins | $10

THE PUERTO RICAN SECTION

A lot of these things aren’t food or kitchen related. But, I have a compulsory issue where I see something Puerto Rican and I have to buy it. And then I don’t know what to do with it after I’m done fondling it.

LOT 70

Vintage Los Artesanos Hal Lasky Vase | $100

7’’ x 4’’

LOT 71

Vintage Puerto Rico State Guard Patch | $10

This cloth patch is 3.25 inches tall

LOT 72

1970s Medium Sportsmaster Nylon Windbreaker Jacket Colegio San Conrado, Puerto Rico | $25

Pit to pit: 24’’

Shoulder to bottom: 27’’

LOT 73

1990s miniature watercolor of El Morro. Signed Jacqueline Rodriguez ‘92. | $40

The painting is 1.75” x 1.75” In a 5’’ x 7’’ frame with matte.

I purchased the teeny tiny little piece of artwork and put it in this frame. I won’t feel insulted if you want to change the frame. LOL!

LOT 74

Vintage novelty tostonera | $5

Hinges are kind of wobbly.

LOT 75

Rare Piece of Los Bohios Puerto Rican Pottery | $200

Most of the Los Bohios pieces available online are decorated with floral motifs. This is one of the few occasions where it’s not adorned with a decoration.

THE BOOK SECTION

ALL BOOKS ARE $5 (unless otherwise marked) AND WILL BE SHIPPED MEDIA MAIL

LOT 76

A) Francois Payard

B) Martha Stewart

C) Paul Bocuse

D) Baking with Julia

LOT 77

LOT 78

LOT 79

Mary Engelbreit

Queen of the Kitchen and Cookies

LOT 80

Sweetie Pie: A Cookbook of Desserts, Sweets and Treats

LOT 81

SOLD

LOT 82

SOLD

LOT 83

SOLD

LOT 84

A) Belly Full

B) Jeremiah Tower

C) Chez Panisse Menu

D) Betty Crocker

LOT 85

Irena Chalmers illustrated cookbooks $15 each ($50 for all four)

A) Cooking in Clay

B) Chinese Cookery

C) Equipping the Kitchen

D) Le Creuset Cookbook

LOT 86

Irena Chalmers - All About Christmas | $5

LOT 87

49er Cookbook Nevada City California 1970 | $15

LOT 88

This is a recipe book with a large collection of handwritten, book and magazine recipe clippings. I found this at the bins and just couldn’t let it go to the landfill. | SOLD

This time we’re getting a little niche. I’ve included some local artists I collect, like the Patricia Garrett pottery. There’s also an Art Section, Knife Section, a Puerto Rican Section and a Book Section all the way at the bottom.

Also - I owe someone a spatula and I can’t remember who it is. Message me!

THE FIRST HOUR IS FOR PAID SUBSCRIBERS!

6AM - 7AM Paid Subscribers will get first dibs on the items for sale.

Subscribe now

After 7AM the email will be released to all subscribers.

PURCHASING: DM me right here on Substack with the lot number, your offer and the time of day you’re reaching out to me. (ex: Lot 25, offering $25, it’s 8:13AM, 8/12/25)

Please do not DM me on social media or text message me, it gets very confusing to keep track. Yes…even if I know you IRL…please…for the love of all that is holy…message me on Substack.

DISCLAIMER: Some of these items were purchased from the thrift store, yard and estate sales. They may still have that “smell,” from wherever they came from, they made need a deep cleaning with hot water and Dawn dish detergent and some have sticker residue.

HAGGLING REQUIRED! That’s part of the fun. If you really don’t feel comfortable doing that or just don’t wanna bother, that’s ok too.

PAYMENTS: Venmo, Paypal or CashApp. You can also send a check if you’d like and I’ll ship once I receive the check.

SHIPPING: I will not deliver to your house. This is an online only sale. For large and delicate items, shipping will more than likely be USPS flat rate priority mail. Which is expensive, but reliable. By request, I will weigh and measure for a more specifically targeted cost. I promise to attempt to find more reasonable shipping for each item. Just anticipate paying the rates below. Will combine shipping on small and medium sized items.

Shipping is expensive. USPS has risen their prices “temporarily” twice in the last 6 months.

USPS FLAT RATE LARGE BOX - $30.00

USPS FLAT RATE MEDIUM BOX - $20.00

USPS FLAT RATE PADDED ENVELOPE - $12.00

EXAMPLE: If you you purchase an item for $100, then your total would be $100 + $30.00 = $130.00

If you have a shipping account and would like to send me a prepaid shipping label, I will absolutely accept.

LOT 1 - $5 MYSTERY BOX!

15 mystery boxes will be available! The mystery box contains…a mystery. Duh. Could be dishes, could be a chef’s knife, could be a box of salt, could be the little beat up Le Creuset pot (pobrecito) I found at the bins, could be silverware, linen, food related artwork.

Want to take a gamble and see what comes up?

LOT 2

1960s Mid Century Modern Norsk Stålpress Norstaal Maya Flatware. Ten-piece. Made in Norway. 12-12 | SOLD

The Maya cutlery set was originally designed in 1962 by Norwegian designer Tias Eckhoff for the company Norsk Stålpress (often marked Norstaal) and is one of the most recognizable pieces of Scandinavian design in stainless cutlery. It has been in continuous production since the 1960s, and the series is listed in design classics by Phaidon and featured in museums such as MoMA and the Victoria and Albert Museum.

Over time, Norstaal became part of the Danish design brand Stelton. The newer versions you see today are sold under Stelton branding and are all made from stainless steel, marked 18/8 (shown on the back of the cutlery). 18/8 is the current standard for kitchen/stainless flatware.

12/12 was the older stainless alloy grade from the 1960s–70s era. This listing is marked 12/12 making it part of the original Mid Century Modern production line.

LOT 3

Vintage 1960s VARCO Coffee Spice Grinder Spice. Made in France. WORKS! | SOLD

The Vintage Varco Coffee Grinder Spice Herb Orange 228.1.00 is an electric coffee grinder made in France, featuring a distinctive orange color. This vintage grinder is a collectible item perfect for any kitchen or home decor enthusiast. Its retro design and functionality make it a unique addition to any kitchen, adding both style and practicality to the space. Whether used for grinding coffee beans or storing herbs and spices, this vintage Varco coffee grinder is sure to be a conversation starter.

3.5” diameter 7” tall

In great condition. Works great.

LOT 4

1970s Kitchen Cat Spoon Rest Holder Clear Lucite Resin | $15

The back rubber panel of the spoon rest has a small chip. Middle photo. 6’’ x 3’’

LOT 5

Vintage 1950s Accent MSG Salt Shaker Set Large Glass Owens-Illinois Glass Co | $10

These tiny and cute vintage 1950s glass shakers feature a striking red top, adding a unique and nostalgic touch to any collection. The original design of this set makes it a rare find for collectors of vintage kitchen decor, and the vibrant red color adds a pop of color to any space. Perfect for those interested in retro advertising and food and beverage memorabilia, this shaker set is a charming piece that is sure to stand out in any display.

4-inch glass bottles made by the Owens-Illinois Glass Company.

- #9 on the left is for the plant code (Streator, IL)

- #50 date code on right (1950)

- #7 number -below logo (mold cavity)

The pepper shaker has a flaw (see photos), it’s almost like it was melted from being too close to heat? The cap attaches, but it’s unstable like when you have to pry it off with a butter knife.

LOT 6

RARE Vintage Pyrex 9 cup percolator. 7759H A-2. Complete Set. | $150

This is actually one of my personal pieces. I’ve had this iconic percolator for years. I never used it. Just liked to look at it and appreciated having something rare and old. Has the basket, stem, and lid. All in great working condition. Ready to be used.

6 inches diameter x 7 inches in height. Needs a wash.

7759 is the manufacturing code for the body of the 6 cup. Contoured glass handle was produced between 1948–1949; the handle design changed from a straight model to a more contoured shape.

The letter H refers specifically to the handle, in case you needed a replacement.

Here are some examples of this percolator in television and movies.

LOT 7

Incomplete 6 cup Pyrex percolator. 7756-B | $40

This is just the body. Does not have the mechanisms to percolate. But, can still be used to boil water for pour overs or water for instant soups.

LOT 8

Vintage Pyrex 6283-U 1.5 Quart Bain Marie Double Boiler Insert | $10

There’s a bottom piece that goes into this. I don’t have it, but I included a photo of it and some listings on eBay you might be interested in.

EXAMPLE of bottom base.

LOT 9

1970s wooden wall-mounted kitchen rack for light tools and tchotchkes | SOLD

15’’ x 3’’

LOT 10

Vintage 1980s Sears & Roebuck 7 Piece Country Cooking Utensil Set. New in box. Deadstock. | $15

I opened the box because I wanted to make sure everything was in there and someone just didn’t tape it up themselves. Brand new. Never been used.

LOT 11

Fiestaware Pitcher | SOLD

LOT 12

Vintage 1950s Stetson Marcrest 2 fruit bowls and 2 bread plates in the "Misty Pine" pattern. | $25

LOT 13

Stainless Steel/Aluminum Hen on Nest Trivet | SOLD

THE POTS AND PANS SECTION

LOT 14

SET Vintage Dansk Kobenstyle Dutch Ovens. Made in France. SOLD

I know, they’re not in the best condition. I tried to scrub the carbon away from the inside and I managed to get a lot off. The lady who previously owned these bought them brand new and used the hell out of them. They’ve been together for so long, I want to sell them together and I understand how ridiculous and unreasonable I am being.

LOT 15

RARE Vintage Dansk Kobenstyle Large Baking Tray/Dish Made in France | $30

Although this is a rare colorway, the pan isn’t in the best condition. It has chips all around the edge, and two inside. It’s still perfectly safe to use if you line it with foil or parchment.

LOT 16

12’’ All-Clad stainless steel skillet pan | SOLD

Found at the bins.

LOT 17

Dansk Kobenstyle Paella Casserole Pan | $40

Has a small chip on the upper interior.

LOT 18

Vintage Brown Le Creuset Pot #16 Made in France | $15

Exterior enamel is worn. Has a pockmark on the rim.

LOT 19

Antique Cold Handle Cowboy Frying Pan Carbon Steel Metal Skillet #42 9" | $20

These pans are known for their distinctive “cold handle” design that stays cool while cooking. They are ideal for campfires, providing a non-stick surface when seasoned. Has a pour spot on one side.

Made from stamped sheet carbon steel with flared sides and an integral, horizontal, molded, “cold” handle that is wrapped on top with tinned sheet metal to leave room for air inside; rounded end with reinforced hanging hole. Metal wrapping is stamped in relief “42.”

Don’t know the age. Just read on the National Museum of American History website that the golden age for production of these pans were “1880-1920.” This does not sit flat.

LOT 20

Vintage Birmingham Stove Range BSR Century Series No.7 Cast Iron Skillet 10 1/8" | SOLD

Birmingham Stove & Range (BSR) cast iron was produced in Alabama from the early 1900s until 1992. Renowned for its "Red Mountain" and "Century" series, BSR pans feature a distinctive heat ring. Sits flat. No warp.

LOT 21

Vintage #5 Unmarked Wagner Ware 8" Inch Cast Iron Skillet Frying Pan USA H Mark | $15

Sits flat. No warp. No cracks.

LOT 22

Vintage #10 Unmarked Wagner Ware 11 3/4” Inch Cast Iron Skillet Frying Pan USA | $25

Sits flat. No warp. No cracks. NEEDS a deep clean and an oil up. Found at the bins.

LOT 23

Made In CeramiClad Nonstick 2 Quart Saucepan Made in Italy Stainless Steel | $50

LOT 24

VTG Lodge #8 SK 3 Notch Skillet With Lid 10.5" Cast Iron Frying Pan 1965-1992 | SOLD

It’s rare to find cast iron pans with their lid. Now, whether this lid came with the pan originally I do not know. This is the way the old man had it, this is the way I found it in the old man’s house (he’s still living) and this is how I’m selling it.

LOT 25

Brown Le Creuset Dutch Oven, No Lid. Size B (2 quarts) | $10

Found at the bins.

The enamel is ashy and has lost its luster. I don’t know how to bring it back. However, the inside is still in great condition. Probably needs a good soak and a good scrub. It needs some love!

LOT 26

All-Clad 3 quart steamer insert w/LID for 3 and 4 quart All-Clad saucepan only | $10

Has some superficial scratch marks on the lid. Needs a good wash with some hot water, Dawn and Barkeepers friend.

9’‘ diameter

4’‘ height

LOT 27

Le Creuset Pot Blue with no Lid #26 | $15

Inside is a little rough. Has a few chips. Needs some elbow grease love. I’ve owned this for years and honestly never use it. Same with the red one.

LOT 28

Le Creuset Pot Red with no Lid #26 | SOLD

Inside is in great condition. I’ve also owned this for years and never use it.

LOT 29

Vintage Franciscan Discovery “Terra Cotta” Rectangular Loaf Pan MCM USA | SOLD

LOT 30

Sometimes I find random lids while I’m out shopping and it makes me sad. I can’t leave them behind.

Le Creuset Lid “E” | SOLD

Found at the bins.

LOT 31

Pair Nambè crystal candlesticks candle holders | $20

LOT 32

Arthur Salm Stainless Steel Carving Set Mid Century Modern Made in Austria | $10

LOT 33

1990s Rectangular Tray HEAVY Silver Toned | Wilton Armetale Reggae Style | $15

LOT 34

1970s Anchor Hocking Oil Vinegar Glass Bottles Cape Craft Pine North Carolina | $20

The bottles are marked on the bottom with the classic "H inside an anchor" logo that began being phased out in 1968. By the 1980s and beyond, the logo often transitioned to just the text "Anchor Hocking." Cape Craft Pine was sold and closed in 1984.

In great condition.

LOT 35

2 Antique Chocolate Molds Vormenfabriek Tilburg Holland Bear Pig / Anton Reiche | SOLD

These Dutch, post WWII, chocolatier molds were manufactured by VormenFabriek of Tilburg, the Netherlands. The company has been in business since 1921. The molds measure 3.25” x 2.5” at their widest and is held with one clip.

Both are in great condition. Some rust flecks on the hog. See photos.

LOT 36

Two Pyrex Pipkin, made by Corning Glass Works in Corning, NY, about 1935 | $20 each

Colorless non-lead borosilicate glass, mold-blown by machine and stamped. Described as having a bulbous shape, flared rim, neck flared out to body with a metal band around top of neck. Band circumference stamped with stylized wave design, handle attached to side of body by band and screw, handle curved with scroll design molded into sides at end. Top of body flared out, bottom portion rounded in. Flat circular base, stamped “Made in U.S.A. of PYREX Brand Glass” in green typography.

Main body: Non-lead Borosilicate Glass

Band: Aluminum

Handle: Plastic

In great condition.

LOT 37

VTG (4) Cobalt Blue Stem Coupe Champagne Glasses Dessert Ribbed Made Italy | SOLD

I actually have eight (8) of these glasses. I just thought it would be easier to move four at a time? Let me know if you’d like all 8 glasses.

Set of four vintage cobalt blue stem coupe champagne glasses made in Italy. They feature a ribbed design and come in a vibrant blue and clear color combination. Perfect for serving dessert or champagne in a stylish and elegant way, these glasses add a touch of sophistication to any table setting. Ideal for those who appreciate vintage pieces and Italian craftsmanship.

Have two sets of four. In great condition. No chips, cracks or crazing.

Measures 3.5” tall and 3.75” wide on top

LOT 38

Hand Carved Rustic Wooden Dough Fruit Bowl 12”x6 | $15

12” x 6”

In good used condition. Has a pretty big fault line crack at the bottom.

LOT 39

Vintage Tupperware Servalier Bowl SET Harvest Yellow Orange Green 836 838 840

$25

Vintage Tupperware Servalier Bowl SET from the 1970’s.

Yellow/Harvest Gold: 836-8

Burnt Orange: 838-8

Avocado Green: 840-8

The set includes bowls of various sizes, with corresponding starburst lids designed for a secure, instant seal.

In good used vintage condition, seal is tight, show some signs of use.

LOT 40

VTG MCM Dana DFA Denmark Stainless 2 Piece Serving Two Forks Scandinavian Design | SOLD

Made of high-quality stainless steel, the set features a silver color and a stylish handle material that is durable and easy to clean. The Danish brand Dana Denmark ensures a premium and authentic dining experience, making it a great addition to any kitchen or dining table.

In excellent condition. No warping or bending.

LOT 41

RARE 1984 SOPEXA Enamel Metal Serving Tray Map Cheeses of France Fromages de France | $20

A metal tin tray with a collage of 57 different French cheeses arranged geographically and numbered, ranging from soft Camembert (#1) to hard Mimolette (#33).

Pretty dusty. Needs a wipe down.

LOT 42

Pewter Tray. Made in Mexico by Betty Barrena. Heavy. 19’’ x 7’’ | SOLD

LOT 43

Vintage Santa Anita Ware “California Modern Canary Yellow” Cream & Sugar 5’’ height | $10

LOT 44

Rooster Stainless Steel Measuring Spoons | SOLD

THE KNIFE SECTION

LOT 45

Vintage Japanese/Chinese Meat Cleaver Chef Knife Stainless Steel Brass Handle | $100

Someone suggested that the knife was made in China for the Japanese market, or perhaps by a Chinese company that uses Japanese characters for branding. ​Functionality: The description of the knife being “very heavy on the handle” aligns with the use of a solid brass handle. This kind of weight distribution can feel a little different from a Western knife, but it’s not unusual for certain types of cleavers. It can also give the user a good sense of control for certain chopping motions.

LOT 46

Vintage LC GERMAIN Stainless Steel Japanese Knife Set | $20

LOT 47

Vintage Flint Vanadium Knife Carving Set Wooden Holder Made In USA Black Handle | $10

LOT 48

Kyoku Damascus Steel Shogun Series Kiritsuke Knife 8.5" Japanese VG10 | SOLD

LOT 49

JA Henckels Solingen Germany 6 Piece Knife Set Stainless Steel Zwilling with block | SOLD

8’‘ Chef’s Knife

8’‘ Carving Knife

8’‘ Serrated Knife

5.5’‘ Boning/Fillet Knife

4’‘ Serrated Knife

3’‘ Paring Knife

KNIFE BLOCK

Knives are in great condition. Could probably use some sharpening. Handles and knife block show some signs of wear. SEE PHOTOS.

No knicks on the blades. No warp or bending on the knives. No rust or verdigris on the bolsters.

LOT 50

1980s Zwilling JA HENCKELS Cleaver Knife Vintage Rostfrei Solingen Germany 8” | SOLD

LOT 51

RARE 1960s JA HENCKELS Friodur Chefs Knife Vintage 9” Blade Solingen Germany | $80

This is a vintage Friodur JA Henckels knife from the 1960s. “Fridour” refers to Henckels’ ice-hardening process, introduced in 1939 and patented in 1951. Logo is etched rather than deeply stamped, earlier knives (pre-1950s) tended to have deeper stamps. It has a simple wooden handle, three rivets and a minimal bolster.

In great vintage condition. Blade is still true. No pieces missing, or chipped, from the handle. There is some obvious wear on the bottom of the blade on one side. Doesn’t effect the knife.

LOT 52

Vintage 1950s - 1970s DEXTER Southbridge Mass 17'' Knife Brass Rivets S18912 | $30

Many vintage Dexter knives marked simply as “DEXTER” (without the Russell) or “Super Stainless” with wood handles date back to the 1950s through the 1970s. “Super Stainless” generally points to the postwar era when stainless steel became popular for commercial butchers.

Vintage “chopper” marked DEXTER S18912 made in Southbridge, Massachusetts. Super Stainless. Measures 17” long with handle, cleaver measures 12” and has a 3/4 tang.

Has some gunk and verdigris patina around the rivets and handle. Otherwise, the blade is in good condition.

LOT 53

VTG Set 8 Mid Century Modern Robinson Ecko Stainless USA Serrated Steak Knives | SOLD

There’s only seven in this photo because I found the other knife at a totally different time. All by its little self! Sad. Also, the blades aren’t messed up, I just got lazy and impatient with the sticker residue.

LOT 54

Russell International Set (2) 10” Chef Knives Stainless Steel 7604 NSF | SOLD

LOT 55

Vintage Queen Cutlery Knife Set | $15

LOT 55

Vintage Green “Flintwood” Melamine Salad Serving Utensils | $10

THE ART SECTION

This has nothing to do with food, I just bought too much art this year. I’ve been in a weird art buying phase. I don’t know why. Are my own walls covered in art? Yes! But, I don’t think there’s room for any more. Or else it’s gonna get weird.

LOT 56

Hedy Buzan Southern California Art Painting Monotype Framed 8x10 Almond Trees | $80

This is a “mini” monotype by Southern California artist Hedy Buzan who resides in Laguna Beach, Ca. The image is 3.5x 3” mat within a 8x10” frame.

Monotypes are unique, one-of-a-kind prints created by applying ink or paint to a smooth, non-absorbent surface like glass or metal and transferring it to paper. Known as the “painterly print,” this process allows for spontaneous, expressive art, with common methods including painting on and wiping off techniques.

Signed. No discoloration or fading. In great condition.

LOT 57

Original 14’‘ x 18’‘ Mosaic Style Painting California Mission Bells Signed | $10

LOT 58

1970s Original still life oil painting of glass pitcher and fruit Signed J. Marion // Matisse Fauvist style | $80

LOT 59

Debbie Mumm pattern cross stitch of stacked tea cups, framed. 12'' x 10'' | $10

LOT 60

RARE Christine Marais Framed Art Print Rockrunner Hartlaub's Francolin 2000 | $100

FREE SHIPPING

These are two signed prints that are professionally framed.

Christine Marais was a true gem for enthusiasts of nature art. This piece showcases a variety of birds of Namibia, rendered with remarkable detail and a vivid palette that brings the tranquil beauty of the flora and fauna to life. The print is elegantly framed, presenting a polished look that is ready to adorn any space.

Born and married in South Africa, Christine’s life and art transformed when she and her husband moved with their family to Namibia in 1970. In 2000 she illustrated a book called “Birding in Namibia,” and these are based off the illustrations included in the book.

30’‘ x 14.5’‘

In excellent condition.

LOT 61

Bob Marcello Framed Signed Original Lithograph Print Etching Black White | $10

11’‘ x 14’‘

In great condition. No chips, cracks, knicks or dents. Some water damage on the back (those brown spots).

LOT 62

Original Floral Watercolor Signed Framed Millicent S Watkins UC Davis, CA | $140

Millicent S Watkins was the wife of a local UC Davis apiarist professor, “a librarian and school teacher.”

16’‘ x 20’‘ framed and signed.

In great condition. No chips, cracks, knicks or dents. The edge of the frame has a black smudge. See photos.

LOT 63

SET Framed and Signed (Cathy B. 1992) Botanical Flower Paintings | $50

LOT 64

Veloy Vigil Etching Southwest Native American Pueblo Art TAOS New Mexico

$500 OBO

Number 40/65

The late Veloy Vigil (1931 – 1997) was a painter from Colorado. His mother was Indigenous Puebloan and his father was of Spanish-heritage. Veloy’s flowing abstract expressionist canvases, charged with color and spiritual energy, made him one of the most quietly influential figures in twentieth century Southwest art. For the last part of his life he lived and worked in Taos, New Mexico.

Frame is 28’‘ x 28’‘

Professionally framed in UV protective glass. Purchased at El Presidio Gallery in Tucson, AZ which closed in 2019.

In great condition. No rips, stains, discoloration, or holes.

LOT 65

SET 3 Terra Sancta Guild Cloisonné Faith Love Joy BOOKENDS 1967 Brass Celtic | $30

5.25” tall

3.75” wide

In great condition.

THE CERAMIC SECTION

LOT 66

Tue Poulsen Mid Century Modern Tea Pot Denmark from his Grey Stone Series SOLD

Stamped 735 on the underside, this teapot was made by the Danish sculptor Tue Poulsen. Tue (1939 - 2026 ) was a Danish ceramicist, visual artist, and designer with a diverse range of works and one of Denmark’s most well-known and respected ceramic artists. Tue passed away in January 2026 at the age of 89.

According to his website, this piece is from his “Retro, Gray Stone, Ceramics Series.” I included a photo from his catalog.

In excellent condition. No stains, cracking, crazing, nicks, or discoloration.

LOT 67

Patricia Garrett Ceramic Vegetables | $40 each

A) Squash

B) Eggplant

C) Zucchini

From 1980 to 2003 Patricia Garrett created and produced her lifelike functional pieces of decorative art in her studio in Berkeley, California. In her studio, called Great Impressions Ceramic Design, she crafted lifelike stoneware of fruit and vegetable with lead free glazes. This squash is signed and dated, 1996.

LOT 68

Vintage Studio Art Pottery Hand Thrown Stoneware Lidded Cookie Jar Signed. 1984. | $25

LOT 69

Handthrown Small Pottery Ceramic Ice Cream Lavender Bowl with Green Veins | $10

THE PUERTO RICAN SECTION

A lot of these things aren’t food or kitchen related. But, I have a compulsory issue where I see something Puerto Rican and I have to buy it. And then I don’t know what to do with it after I’m done fondling it.

LOT 70

Vintage Los Artesanos Hal Lasky Vase | $100

7’’ x 4’’

LOT 71

Vintage Puerto Rico State Guard Patch | $10

This cloth patch is 3.25 inches tall

LOT 72

1970s Medium Sportsmaster Nylon Windbreaker Jacket Colegio San Conrado, Puerto Rico | $25

Pit to pit: 24’’

Shoulder to bottom: 27’’

LOT 73

1990s miniature watercolor of El Morro. Signed Jacqueline Rodriguez ‘92. | $40

The painting is 1.75” x 1.75” In a 5’’ x 7’’ frame with matte.

I purchased the teeny tiny little piece of artwork and put it in this frame. I won’t feel insulted if you want to change the frame. LOL!

LOT 74

Vintage novelty tostonera | $5

Hinges are kind of wobbly.

LOT 75

Rare Piece of Los Bohios Puerto Rican Pottery | $200

Most of the Los Bohios pieces available online are decorated with floral motifs. This is one of the few occasions where it’s not adorned with a decoration.

THE BOOK SECTION

ALL BOOKS ARE $5 (unless otherwise marked) AND WILL BE SHIPPED MEDIA MAIL

LOT 76

A) Francois Payard

B) Martha Stewart

C) Paul Bocuse

D) Baking with Julia

LOT 77

LOT 78

LOT 79

Mary Engelbreit

Queen of the Kitchen and Cookies

LOT 80

Sweetie Pie: A Cookbook of Desserts, Sweets and Treats

LOT 81

SOLD

LOT 82

SOLD

LOT 83

SOLD

LOT 84

A) Belly Full

B) Jeremiah Tower

C) Chez Panisse Menu

D) Betty Crocker

LOT 85

Irena Chalmers illustrated cookbooks $15 each ($50 for all four)

A) Cooking in Clay

B) Chinese Cookery

C) Equipping the Kitchen

D) Le Creuset Cookbook

LOT 86

Irena Chalmers - All About Christmas | $5

LOT 87

49er Cookbook Nevada City California 1970 | $15

LOT 88

This is a recipe book with a large collection of handwritten, book and magazine recipe clippings. I found this at the bins and just couldn’t let it go to the landfill. | SOLD

It was Nereida’s 45th birthday.

“I made Mushroom Chicken,” Big Nereida said on the other end of the phone.

“My birthday isn’t until tomorrow,” Nereida drly responded.

“I know.”

“I guess I’m on my way then.”

Nereida liked to disappear and have absolutely no contact with anyone on her birthday. She liked to heave herself into the forest and stare up at the redwoods, deeply inhale the Ponderosa Pine, and shake hands with the Riparian brush rabbit. Only the sound of her feet crunching the thick layer of duff below. This was the only surefire way to ensure she’d have a good day. Which is precisely why Big Nereida decided to surprise Nereida the day before her birthday with her favorite meal: Mushroom Chicken.

Nereida reluctantly drove over to her mother’s.

Nereida hadn’t spent a single day standing inside her childhood home, her mother’s home, for longer than 15 minutes since Che and Chillon (two stray neighborhood cats that had become indoor princes) had gone over the rainbow. That was unknowingly two years ago. A drastic change from when Nereida frequently spent hours, sometimes all day, just loafing in her mother’s armchair, in and out of nodville, in front of the fireplace. She deeply inhaled and exhaled a preparation breath before she inserted the key into the thick, black, heavy wrought iron gate. She deeply inhaled and exhaled a cleansing breath before she inserted the key into the thick, black, heavy wrought iron security door. She walked straight through the dark and cold living room with the vaulted ceilings - passed the the five mylar balloons that read “Happy Birthday” she immediately noticed, but didn’t verbally acknowledge - and into the dim yellow kitchen lit by one singular, overhead, fluorescent tube bulb disguised behind a plastic stained glass mock.

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My pantry is not an aesthetic one. I’m not the type of person to go out and buy a decorative bottle that is meant to withhold the bottle of olive oil I purchased. A bottle for another bottle. My seasoning container (and the drawer they’re kept in) is caked and covered in dried seasoning crumbs. I don’t always transfer my dry goods (like oatmeal) into a tight sealed storage container. A motley crew of folded bags sit disheveled and slumped on my metro rack. Including my prized bag of Golden Pheasant that I will not eat, nor throw away, because the company decided to vanish into the shadows after being in business for over 50 years. I’d like to say that it’s because I don’t have enough energy, or because it’s a waste of money. But, in all honesty…I just don’t care. It takes everything in me to sweep the kitchen floor most days. Oh, and Pavo’s special little corner of cat litter pellets that leave a constant trail to the kitchen.

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One of the online food creators I follow posts daily on what she eats on a budget centered around the USDA recommended weekly family food budget guidelines for a two person household. Which for her is $50 a week. She posts daily. I watch daily. Every Wednesday she takes us along with her while she grocery shops at her preferred grocery store, Food Lion location in her resident state of North Carolina. The commenters on TikTok seem to be understanding. However, I happen to come across her comments on IG Threads and it seemed like…people didn’t get it?

But, this is not a new conversation. I was thinking of this very topic in January when SNAP benefits were being cut. The topic of, “we can’t survive off this…”

Some people think the food that is cooked on a strict budget is boring. I don’t know how some people got to the point where they think they need to eat luxury foods everyday: Cajun-seasoned, cheese-sauce coated, king crab legs and lobster tails.

Outside of the batch of meat I buy from Stemple Creek once every few months, I spend around $50 a week on groceries for a household of two. The standard is salt and black pepper. Everyone should already have this. Yes, I do have a collection of salts. But, it’s only because people send them to me. For free. I also use your basic, old-school, Morton’s iodized table salt. Which is the only salt you need for seasoning a whole hog!

Here are some of the things I always have on hand…

Seasoning Sauces: soy sauce, fish sauce, padaek, white distilled vinegar, apple cider vinegar, oyster sauce and some type of hot sauce (Sriracha, pico pica).

Canned and Jarred Things: no salt tomato sauce, El Pato (which I’ve spoken about at great length), evaporated milk (which is not sweetened condensed milk), olive oil, vegetable oil (I personally like to combine olive oil and vegetable oil for a 50/50 combo to use for high heat things), beans, beans and more beans! No salt pinto beans, refriend beans, Bush’s baked beans (I love to eat these with barbecue chicken and the the single plate of potato salad I get a craving for once a year). I don’t eat Hormel Chili, but for $0.50 a can I do. I usually make my own barbecue sauce, but someone sent me that Franklin Barbecue sauce to try. Good flavor, but hella watery. Wish it were a little tighter as it doesn’t really tighten up under heat either.

Bagged and Boxed Things: Rice. RiceS. On average I usually have calrose and jasmine on hand (and basmati, and a short grain and a red rice), but I understand this is somewhat of a privileged preference. Why do I have a billion boxes of Rice-A-Roni in my pantry? Because I cannot pass up a sale. They were $0.75 a box. Same goes for the Great Value pasta which was on rollback for $0.68 a box. I don’t like pasta, but my partner eats it everyday damn near. Bob’s Red Mill potato flakes (for instant mash and stew thickeners), oatmeal, grits, polenta, cream of wheat, pancake mix.

Perishables: Papas, tortillas, eggs. However, I haven’t really been eating eggs much lately. I don’t know why.

The seasoning situation is a little out of hand. Seasonings will show up at my door and I don’t even know how they got there.

But, these ingredients are based off how I like to eat and cook. I make a lot of Southeast Asian and Mexican food at home. Oddly enough, most of those ingredients can be used in Puerto Rican food. Throw adobo, sazon and sofrito into the mix. Most of my budget goes to getting my vegetables at the farmer’s market every Thursday. I also have been consuming an obscene amount of frozen mixed vegetables.

Your pantry doesn’t have to be “clean.” It doesn’t have to be aesthetic. But, it does need to include things like rice and beans. And I don’t want to hear nothing about, “I don’t like beans. I can’t eat beans everyday.” You don’t need to eat beans every day in the way you’re thinking.

I think some people attribute to having a pantry with only being necessary if you live in a rural area, or being in an area that frequently receives severe weather. But, that’s not true. Having a pantry is essential. It is essential to keeping your weekly…monthly…annual grocery budget down. It’s also essential to…cooking. Just cooking. Simple…everyday (every other day)…cooking. Having some basic necessities readily available in your pantry will only be helpful to you and your wallet. Thinking about this conversation centered around not being able to feed a family of two for $50 a week, but justifying a $1,500 meal during the same week (I started writing this during the Noma Los Angeles announcement) is an interesting juxtaposition no one should be surprised by.

If you’re a supermarket shopper

Wandering down the aisles early morning in the grocery store is my kind of meditation. It’s quiet, there’s hardly anyone there and that’s when you’re likely to find the “manager’s special” foods. Food that needs to be consumed or frozen within 24 hours. I just happened to be in the store this morning when they had a manager’s special on 80/20 ground beef; one pound package was $2.50. A side of wild caught salmon from the USA was $4. Someone recently called the manager’s special “old food.” That’s one way to look at it. Also, you’d be surprised the obscure, boutique, brands that end up at the Dollar Tree. I don’t know how that happens.

If you’re a local, sustainable, regenerative farm shopper

Catch them sales! Stemple Creek had a sale a few months ago and I bought…a lot. I just couldn’t pass up ground beef for $10.99 a pound. I also purchased one of their New York strip steaks for the first time. Cooked it yesterday, in the air fryer, with Delta asparagus, mixed frozen vegetables and instant mashed potatoes. Yup. You heard me right.

Of course you don’t build a pantry in one day. Honestly, you probably could if you catch things on sale. I don’t stock up in the Costco bulk warehouse type of way. I stock up in a, “Damn! Walmart has DeCecco brand pasta on sale for $0.68 a box! I’m buying…” none of your business how many I bought. Every time you grocery shop, you should be grabbing it would behoove you, to grab a few boxes of pasta that are on sale. If you can afford it. A few bags of beans. If you can afford it. You have to think ahead.

What are some of your pantry essentials?

My little No. 16 Cousances Dutch oven, which holds four and a half cups of liquid, is my designated soup pot. I often make a quick fridge clean out soup using Bibigo chicken and vegetable mini dumplings, chicken Better than Bouillon, Kinders Japanese BBQ Seasoning and Rub (discontinued), maybe some soy sauce, maybe some Hoisin, sofrito, papas, carrots. Sometimes I’ll add Halo brand ramen noodles.

One thing to know about me is, I prefer a clearish broth. If I can’t see to the bottom of the bowl, I don’t want it. Don’t worry, I still make Cioppino. I just go easy on the tomato sauce.

This week my love for a quick and easy single serving pot of soup just happened to intersect with the myriad $0.29 a pound cabbage sales happening all across the country in preparation of St. Patrick’s Day. Seemed like one of those no-brainers.

This is how I like MY asopao. I like it on the brothier side (am I becoming my mother?) rather than a thick porridge texture. So, spare me with the “Asopao is supposed to be this way, that way, the way…” is out the door because I don’t care what you have to say. I had some leftover rice and this made perfect sense. A small pot of comforting, steaming, shrimpy soup that utilizes leftover rice.

1 tablespoon Olive Oil

5 shrimps, deveined and shelled

3 cups of water

1 teaspoon chicken better than bouillon

1 teaspoon salt free adobo

1 cup of cooked rice

1 cup cabbage, sliced finely

1 tablespoon (or 1 ice cube) of sofrito

Peel and devein your shrimp. Reserve the shells. Cut shrimp into three pieces. Set shrimp aside.

In a small pot (1 quart), over medium high heat, add your olive oil and shrimp shells. Toast the shells for 1-2 minutes or until bright pink and fragrant. Add in 3 cups of water and let simmer for 2-3 minutes. Remove shrimp shells and discard. I use a small strainer to scoop the shells out of the pot rather than use another vessel to pour the stock into through the sieve. You don’t have to do this.

To the water, add better than bouillon, adobo, cooked rice, cabbage and let simmer over medium high heat for 4-5 minutes. I like my cabbage soft.

Add the shrimp. Add your sofrito and let simmer for 1-2 minutes, or until it entirely dissolves if frozen.

Serve in the pot.

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When she arrived to the open space she walked on the trail, through the Oak trees, the staccato of her shoes crunching the gravel beneath. Some of the tree limbs caressed the ground as if they were trying to touch the bright green grass. The limbs so heavy and old that even Nereida could comfortably nestle into one of the crooks of the limbs. And she did. She didn’t mind that the branch was cold, mossy and wet. Other than the visible wet spot that would position itself bullseye on her rump, it was nearly impossible to feel the wetness through the multiple layers of pants she was wearing.

Alone, she whispered aloud, “What was life like for women 100-years ago? What made them happy? What did they eat? Did they feel the same as we do today? Am I hungry?” She was always hungry.

She wasn’t scared of her inevitable hysterectomy. Her mother was the same age when she had her own hysterectomy. But the constant cancer stories people were giving her weren’t helping. A cliche, it was that time of life where if the phone rang you knew someone either died or was dying. Each story chipping away at what little plaster was holding her together. Her godmother saying, “Well, I guess it’s too late for you to have kids. I could never have them.”

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2026 has been off to quite a start. What in the actual fuck? I’ve just dug myself out of a five day shallow grave of illness. The non-stop marathon of preparing and shopping and cooking from October to December had worked its magic into turning my immune system threadbare. Standing in line for an hour, outside in the rain, for Eco Thrift’s annual New Year’s 50% storewide sale was just the proverbial nail in the casket. After receiving the call two days before Christmas Eve that I had endometrial cancer, the week in bed was honestly very welcomed.

I haven’t been a very good villager, or good at building community. The only reason I know this is one, because of breakfast burrito girl including “As a Bay Area Puerto Rican, I thought I was entitled to community,” during her smudge campaign against me. Two, when my colleague, friend and fellow Puerto Rican Cesar Perez recently said, “Sometimes you just gotta do stuff for the community building.” My response was, “Meh.”

It probably doesn’t help that an only child chose writing as a profession; two solitary existences. It can be hard to be a villager and build because it’s hard to rely on people. Especially when most of them have let you down and now you’re already mid-life and have the “fuck it, i’ll do it myself” mentality. There’s no going back. I do believe people can make subtle changes, but I don’t believe that people change. Not entirely.

While I was lying in the operating room, counting down into my anesthesia amnesia, the anesthesiologist (I’m assuming because my eyes were closed the entire time) asked, “Ok, where’s your happy place?” My response? A grunting sound.

“Come on, tell us your happy place,” the voice asked again.

“My grandma’s house. During Christmas. In the 1990s.”

The entire family cram-jammed into my grandma’s townhouse. Only two couches and four dining chairs stuffed shoulder to shoulder, butt to gut, even some laps being occupied. Every nook and cranny filled until we spilled out into the parking lot of the complex. Cozy sweaters, big smiles, loud music, boisterous voices and love. So much love. And that’s all I remember before returning to consciousness from a dream of all the variations of Chex Mix recipes from around the world to the sound of Sabrina Carpenter’s “Bed Chem” playing on the overhead speakers. You’d think that the operating room was as quiet as it is sterile. Those young, smart and good looking people in that room were jammin’ out while hyper focused on scraping my womb. I love that for them. My eyes never opened, but my fingers were happily (and independently) tappin’ against the side of the operating table before a flood of pain attacked my fupa.

“You feeling any pain?” a faceless voice asked.

I nodded my head and winced.

“Let’s give her a (wavy gibberish) of fentanyl.”

My eyebrows raised at the mention of fentanyl. The pain almost immediately disappeared. And I drifted off into another slumber. When I awoke, I was in the recovering room staring at a male nurse with Luke Perry sideburns.

The next week I spent my usual countless hours watching videos of Puerto Ricans preparing for Noche Buena, including a video that had gone viral of a couple taste testing a box of Goya pasteles they purchased from Walmart. “Hmm, not bad,” one of the taste testers said. Under the viral video were hundreds of the same comment, “I wish I would have learned before my grandma died.” “We buy our pasteles because I don’t know how to make them.” Even if your abuela is gone…do it. Learn. This isn’t like learning Spanish, which is nearly impossible if you do not immerse yourself in it. Learning how to make pasteles is easy. I assure you.

Otherwise, don’t do it and admit that you don’t want to put in the work. Which doesn’t have to be work. You don’t have to make the three dozen pasteles. You can only make four. Don’t make the excuse of not making them because they won’t come out like your abuela’s if you’re already purchasing your pasteles from someone else. They don’t have to taste like your abuela’s. You are not your grandma. You can create your own traditions. You are this generation’s courier that ensures pasteles make it through the family tree and live on. Don’t worry. One day someone will find out about pasteles and do their own deep dive on the “traditional” way of doing it. It doesn’t have to be chicken and yuca, you can make a chicken and guineo. Hell, make them vegan and don’t add any meat at all! It’s never going to look like your grandma’s and that’s ok. Because guess what? Even on the island, with the purity Ricans, it doesn’t look the same from family to family. Fuck it. If you want to do it, do it and do it now.

You are Puerto Rican. Think of all the different ways there are to look Puerto Rican. There are just as many ways to be Puerto Rican. There’s nothing to be ashamed of or afraid of. Oh, the “purity Ricans” will absolutely come for you. The only ammunition they have is that some of us don’t speak Spanish. Don’t be mad or angry. In fact, you should be sympathetic to their seemingly last resort insult. You should look upon them with doting affection as they argue in the long debate of “empanadilla” versus “pastelillo.” Some Diasporicans possess the oldest and most traditional recipes because our families departed the island long before conglomerate entities could manipulate minds and budgets. The Puerto Ricans de la isla have lost power (electrical and political), land, homes and memories. Fighting over Protecting their gastronomic birthright is the one thing they may feel like they have some control over.

This is obviously something I had to learn. The aforementioned note was also a message for myself. I let my ego get the best of me and I want to apologize to all the Puerto Ricans de la isla I dismissed. Even if you were wrong. No apologies to breakfast burrito girl though.

It’s been a year since I found out I had cancer. Sort of. I had an “inconclusive,” pap smear last year and they sent me in to radiology where they thought they found a “small mass at the bottom of my uterus.” I had another pap smear six months later and they found abnormal cells. At the time I was deep into sending two pets over the rainbow bridge and my mom’s own cancer odyssey. There’d be no way that I could undergo chemo and also be pushing my mom’s wheelchair out of her chemo treatments while dealing with the medical administration. That’s how I thought about it at the time. Most people know what the feeling of loneliness is, but most don’t know what it’s like to be alone. There is no one else to count on. It’s just you. And even if you could find someone else, the time and strength it takes to corral the resources to pass the telegram onto the man on the pony takes just as much work as doing it yourself.

Part of that aloneness is my own fault for not building community and for being a terrible villager. I’m a person that does not like to be inconvenienced. But, some of it is just part of being an only child.

NOTE: I’m leaving this here because writing about my experience is cathartic. But, much like my mom, I don’t want to talk about it. I don’t want to hear cancer stories, or learn about cancer diets. I’m leaving this here because it only exists here.

My mom called me while I was running errands and left me a frantic voicemail, “I tried to withdraw money from the ATM and it didn’t give me the money or a receipt.” A considerable amount of money was gone into the abyss and there was no way of getting it back in the moment. I was faced with the task of utilizing the tools I learned in therapy: exercising restraint and self-regulating. Or…OR…my immediate knee-jerk reaction: yelling at her for…once again…getting herself into some cinematic hijinx and leaving the problem for me to solve. Unlike you, dear reader, I absolutely yell at my mother. I always feel guilty afterwards, but I’m never ashamed. Instead of solving the issue until she reached an impasse, she had brought her problem for me to solve. Abandoning two mottos she annoyingly reiterated from her youthful high horse, “You get yourself into trouble, you get yourself out.” And “practice what you preach.”

Never any nuance. Never any gray.

Like an overworked parent - wearing my freshly prescribed reading glasses on top of my head, pocketbook and car keys in hand - I tiredly appeared at the bank’s administrative desk the next day inquiring, “What happened?”

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NEWSLETTER SALE: THE MONTH OF DECEMBER

The Diasporican newsletter (this one you’re reading right now) is only $30 a year.

It’s been such a hard few years. I know you’ve felt it too. Don’t forget that Diasporican is only $10,000 away from paying its advance back and then it’s royalty time, baby! It does not matter where you buy the book from (obvs preferably from your local indie bookstore). Just buy it.

Don’t forget that my spice blends are still produced by an American spice importer that sources sustainable, single-origin spices directly from farmers and foragers all over the world. Including my sazon which is the only one on the market that includes achiote from a small farm in San Sebastian, Puerto Rico. One of which I sourced myself!

We’re all just trying our best. We’re all just trying to uphold democracy, avoid being laid off, feed our neighbors, keep the food pantries stocked all while keeping our sanity, taking care of our own families, believe in believing, eating at least one well balanced meal a day and staying hydrated! It’s Christmas…you deserve to splurge on yourself. Charge it to the game. That’s future yous problem. This is coming from someone who doesn’t always think they deserve to splurge on themselves. And speaking of splurge…

Welcome to my fifth annual holiday guide. Each guide has been a little different (I hope), with focusing on a “theme.” Gift giving is an art. Most people shop for themselves when shopping for a gift for others. Some just grab a bottle of something alcoholic. I always surprise someone with something I heard them mention while we were just chit chatting on a random Wednesday two months ago. When people still watched physical media, I used to curate movie night baskets: DVD, two glasses, beverage, popcorn, the basket doubled as a popcorn holding vessel, a sweet treat, and a food or beverage item featured within the movie. Chocolate-themed basket for the movie Chocolat.

The theme of 2025 is California comestibles. All 12 of the items included in the gift guide are created right here in California. Leaning heavily on Northern California, this list also leans a little more consumerism than my previous lists. Maybe someone out there is interested in a list that has more “luxury” goods. To me, luxury does not mean designer labels of poorly made items made in a shop overseas. Luxury means quality items made by craftsman that will last through the generations.

I am definitely ready for the Christmas spirit! I don’t know about you, but getting into the Christmas spirit can be challenging. It’s taking a lot to bypass Thanksgiving and go directly into Christmas mode. Alas, my ceramic turkeys need their time to be displayed just as much as my vintage ceramic Christmas trees.

Here’s a list of 12 items made in California that ship nationwide. Look, I made it on Canva! Ta-da! In the words of my mother, “Look, I big girl.” She’s such a pain in my ass.

Seka Hills - Brooks

Named in honor of the blue hills that overlook the Yocha Dehe Wintun Nation’s homeland in the Capay Valley (Séka translates to “blue” in the native Patwin language), Séka Hills Olive Mill opened in 2012 for the milling of the Tribe’s olives, along with other local growers’ olives. - Daily Democrat

Purchase some beautiful olive oil produced by Seka Hills, owned and operated by members of the Yocha Dehe Wintun tribe that have inhabited the Capay Valley for thousands of years. In 2008 they planted their first olive trees and by 2012 they started selling their wine and olive oil door-to-door to small grocery stores and restaurants in the Bay Area. Now they have two tasting rooms you can visited located in Brooks and Sacramento. Their Brooks location is across the road from Cache Creek Casino.

Nationwide Shipping Available

Stemple Creek Ranch - Tomales

My 84-year-old neighbor sends out gift cards for Omaha Steaks every year. This gave me the idea to feature where I get my favorite steaks! Stemple Creek Ranch was started by Angelo Poncia and now his great-grandson, Loren Poncia, runs Stemple Creek as a fourth generation family owned and operated ranch in Marin County. They raise organic grass-fed and finished beef and lamb on pastureland just a few miles from the Pacific Ocean. Unless I happen upon some killer supermarket sticker deal, all of my meat comes from Stemple Creek. A pound of ground beef costs $12.99 and I don’t find that to be too far off from what most of the supermarkets in my area are charging. Except, I know where the meat comes from and how it was raised. How do I know? You can schedule a tour and visit the farm yourself, silly. You can also curate your own box and mix it with chicken, lamb, pork and beef. Or, purchase their limited edition Holiday Variety Boxes. There’s also gift cards! Nothing says “we’re homies” like sending your friend a bone-in leg of lamb. And if nothing else…because it’s not Argentine beef.

Nationwide Shipping Available

Blackwing - Stockton

If you ever caught me writing my thoughts down in the middle of the wilderness, the chances of me using a No. 2 pencil are great. Greater are the chances of me using a Blackwing 602 produced by Eberhard Faber from a box I found at a thrift store in the California Central Valley over a decade ago. You may be thinking I’m nuts for using an old pencil I thrifted. But, would it help if I told you using this one particular style makes me feel connected to the delightfully toxic debaucherous writers I desperately (and failingly) try and emulate? What better gift to a writer than a Blackwing 602 and a Moleskine notebook?

Legendary Grammy, Emmy, Pulitzer and Academy Award winners have created with the Blackwing 602 pencil. The list of known users includes John Steinbeck, Looney Tunes creator Chuck Jones, and Disney animator Shamus Culhane who, according to animation historian Charles Soloman, asked to be buried with his Blackwing 602.

Blackwing’s roots go back to the 1930’s when the 602 model was first introduced by the Eberhard Faber Pencil Company. Over the years, the pencil with the unique rectangular eraser became synonymous with quality. Then, in 1998, after several corporate acquisitions, it was discontinued, but not forgotten. In fact, fans began paying as much as $40 on eBay for a single Blackwing pencil. - Blackwing

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Brown Estate - Napa

I love a glass of something bubbly to bring in the new year. Brown Estate produces a lovely little Duppy Conqueror 2021 North Coast Blanc de Blancs. With notes of lemongrass, Meyer lemon and pineapple. Its pale yellow gold and quartz-like brightness is a feast for the eyes.

In 1980 an abandoned ranch in the eastern hills of the Napa Valley was purchased by a couple. The couple rehabilitated the crumbling homestead and grew viniferous grapes for local winemakers. In 1995 their offspring kids decided to make their own wine and the Brown Estate label officially launched a year later debuting their “Brown Zin.” Their wines can be sampled in their Downtown Napa tasting room, including their Chaos Theory, a 2022 red blend highly rated by Wine Enthusiast.

Nationwide Shipping Available

Early Bird Farms - Wilseyville

Early Bird Farm & Mill, located in Calaveras County, is offering stone-milled flours, meals, and mixes all made from organic grains grown in the Northern California region and then processed locally using stones from a quarry just south of the farm. The owner, Drew Speroni, started the business after spending years at a different mill working as a precision machinist. He was laid off because of his severe epilepsy. Now he’s committed to sustainable and regenerative practices. It’s one of the few local mills producing this type of product.