The Mysterious Handkerchief Box

Two small boxes, wrapped in matching snowmen paper, sat below a tiny Christmas tree at Grandma G.’s home last year. Both were labeled, ‘Rebekah or Mel’. Grandma informed us that we would have to decide who gets what box.
After a quick wrestling match, complete with a few well-placed uppercuts, my sis-in-law Mel chose her box first as I nursed my bloody nose.
Once I had recovered, I removed the snowmen paper, revealing this mysterious box.

Grandma had no recollection of where she purchased the box, how long ago she had done so or who had made it.
Mel’s box was quite similar, but the shape was more rectangular. Her box was labeled, ‘Gloves’.

Other than the hinges you see here, the box was entirely made of wood which was exquisitely decorated.

There is no ‘maker’s mark’ on the box anywhere. I have investigated it thoroughly. (They don’t call me Nancy Drew for nuthin’).

The inside lid of the box is almost identical to the outside lid, sans the hand painting.

It’s so delicate, so unique. Grandma even included two handkerchiefs which still live inside the box.

I would love to know the history behind this mysterious box-the maker, the possible time period it was created and how it was crafted.
If you know anything about this handkerchief box, please let me in on your secret. This curious kitty is dying to know.

Treasures from Yesteryear

Leaving the large farmhouse to move into a more manageable place in town, prompted Grandma to unload many things she didn’t need anymore. She generously blessed the family with items she’s collected throughout her life. And these are a ‘few of my favorite things’ that I was able to bring home!

I love this cute little squirrel and the feathers seem quite appropriate residing there. Plus, they drive Cowboy Cat crazy from time to time. Great entertainment for both of us.

What could be better than getting a jar of glass marbles? Lord knows I needed replacements for the ones that I’ve seem to have lost.

Buttons, buttons, who’s got the buttons? Now I do-and lots of them!

Here’s a few of my fav’s. I love the leather ones the most.

I have many projects planned for this stack of hankies-you will see them very soon, my dears. Very soon.

I can just picture Grandma embroidering this hanky. I love the tiny orange dots leading away from the leaf. So delicate, so sweet.

My hubby had to paper-rock-scissor his sister for these. I am so thankful he rules at almost everything.
He said that he ‘got into her head and messed her focus all up’ and that’s why he won. He’s kind’ve a weirdo, too.

I now have a plethora of vintage aprons, as well. I just know I can create something fun from them. I am keeping back a couple, though.
I am quite a messy cook….

The stamp on the left bears Grandpa’s signature. I couldn’t hold back the tears when Hubby’s sister gave this to me. I still miss him a lot.
I have never seen a plastic tree like this one. It’s about a foot high and folds down flat. I can’t wait to decorate it!
And that sproingy dog has been sitting on Grandma’s desk since Hubby could remember, holding mail, receipts and what not. I think he likes his new home.

What a crock!
Moving on…

Some fiesta ware, some not. I don’t care-I just think they’re super fun.

You might not know it, but I have a thing for cowboys. This tray caught my eye and no one fought me for it. I was really hoping to have at least one arm wrestling match, but no luck. It matches my living room perfectly! I’ll show you more treasures from time to time.
Do you have any treasures that have been handed down to you?
If so, please share!