Through the years I have been able to purchase estates directly from the family; or, if I am not interested, I refer them to an auctioneer in our tri-state area whom I feel best suits their type of items.

Joy of joys! I have been invited to find individual items on Ruby Lane that I really love and try to put into words why they appeal to me. The first task is simple and can at least partly be accomplished by taking a look at my wish list, which is my personal coveting area. The second will be more interesting because I suppose I browse by instinct rather than by rational thought.

I am very fortunate to live where I do, close to the heart of the ancient kingdom of Dalriada and to the island of Iona, revered for centuries as the spiritual home of Celtic Christianity and, in the last century, as the home of the resurgence of Celtic art in the form of crafts and jewellery based on the ancient symbols and stones. I can drive south for an hour and I am in the heart of Kilmartin Glen.

Part One: The Early Years 1751 to 1783 -- The Dr Wall Period

The manufacture of porcelain, that was to endure for hundreds of years and eventually become known as Royal Worcester was established in the city of Worcester in the county of Worcestershire in England.

The pictures in this article show some of my favorite little friends who have helped, and continue to help me keep things in proper perspective! You see, two of these little girls have been through more in their short little lives than anyone should ever have to go through.

It never ceases to amaze me what treasures are still hidden away in attics, basements, sheds and barns. A few months ago, I received a phone call here at the store and the gentleman said “I have an old, wooden baby buggy out in my shed and wondered if you might be interested in it?” I paused for a moment, trying to envision a wooden baby buggy, and then said “Excuse me, did you just say, a wooden baby buggy?” He said “Yes” as I began to laugh.

After 30 years of dealing in antiques and dreaming about antiquing on Portobello Road in London, I was finally able to make that dream come true in September 2009. My daughters invited me to travel to London with them and I cheerfully accepted.

Artist Biographies and CVs (Curriculum Vitae aka Artist Resume)

What is the difference? A biography is where you have come from. A CV is in point form of your accomplishments and involvements. A biography is a story about you. Yes a biography (bio) can include things from your cv, but it is a story. A CV is point form synopsis of your artistic career.

Biographies

Let me start by saying I knew nothing at all about sugar chests, except that they were used to store sugar. Having never owned or desired to own one, a need to research them had never presented itself. In addition to my RubyLane store, I work in my local antique mall, where I do the website and internet listings. Several months ago a dealer brought in a chest and wanted it put on our site. Little did I know the excitement to follow !

I am apologizing in advance for another article involving my husband. My last article was about him and this article is about him. You ask “Why does this woman write so much about her husband?” My answer to you is “He provides me with so much material.”