Rare Bird Finds

Rare Bird Finds News - Please Read

Hello Birdie Friends!

With a heavy heart, I must sadly announce that Sharla will no longer be a regular contributor for Rare Bird Finds.  Sharla and I made our first Rare Bird Finds post in March of 2006, and it's been a fun ride!  I always looked forward to seeing what finds she discovered and cursing her name for helping to empty out my wallet :)  All of us will greatly miss Sharla's eye for the beautiful and the unusual, but more so, her warm spirit and enthusiasm.  However, she is moving on her journey to take care of her two beautiful toddlers and tending to her jewelry shop (which you really must visit, if you haven't!)

But this isn't the end of Rare Bird Finds!

We will be taking a break in July to clear our heads and come up with some fresh ideas.  If you're signed up for our email digest, you will get an email letting you know when our posts have returned - so please sign up, if you haven't already (the subscription box is on the left column).  But if not, be sure to return Monday, August 3, ok?!

To all of you have been faithful readers these past few years, we thank you from the bottom of our hearts.  Every day when we post, we post knowing that you're looking forward to our finds.  This blog wouldn't be possible without you.  You keep us motivated, and we love your emails and comments - so keep them coming!

Warmly,

Mei-Lynn

Call for Fresh Ideas!

As a reader of Rare Bird Finds, we welcome any ideas you may offer to help improve our blog.  We're open to suggestions!  Just leave us a comment below or if you prefer, you can email us at rarebirdfinds@yahoo.com.

Call for Writers!

We're looking to add more regular contributors.  If you feel you can spot shopping finds that are a good match for our blog, send us an email along with a sample of 3 - 5 finds with blurbs.  Show us what you got!  Also, send along a bio about yourself (please include if you're a shop owner or if you have your own blog), what category you'd like to post in, and why you think you'd be a good pick! 

Fab 5 Friday, Issue 59 - Songyi Kim

Songyi Kim is a a 21 year old, 4th-year Pharmacy major who lives in New York City. "I work part-time as the program director at my mother's non-profit organization for special needs children," says Songyi, who has two special needs brothers whom she loves.  "Special needs children aren't as different from us as some might think. We all need support and love to make it through the day; some people just need a hand more than others."

In her spare time, she loves reading Agatha Christie mysteries, listening to punk/metal music, or just recording songs in her studio at home.

"Mono" Kissing Disease Microbe

 

I'm a Pharmacy major- so you can see why this particular item appeals to me. What better gift to give
on Valentine's Day to your special someone than Epstein-Barr, aka Mono? This cute virus comes in 3 different styles- Original 5-7" plush doll ($7.95), Gigantic microbes 15-20" plush doll ($24.95),
and my favorite- the petri dish of 3 mini microbes ($12.95) at GIANTmicrobes.

Handpicked by Fab 5 Friday Guest Editor Songyi Kim

Cupcake Bath Bombs

After a hard day at work, I love to come home and take a relaxing hot bath. I found these Pomegranate and Chocolate cupcake bath bombs on Etsy and I could not resist the temptation! You get a an eight pack of bath bombs (4 pomegranate and 4 chocolate cupcakes). $30 at Sweet Tushies

Handpicked by Fab 5 Friday Guest Editor Songyi Kim

Violet Real Preserved Orchid Hairpin

I've been searching high and low for a beautiful flower hairpin for ages- and I finally found one! This gorgeous
Violet Purple orchid hairpin is actually made with a real preserved orchid! I love wearing this out on special occasions or just on a daily basis. $49.00 at Bela Brazilian Designs (and there's currently a BOGO sale)

Handpicked by Fab 5 Friday Guest Editor Songyi Kim

Java Pop - Organic Coffee Soda

My coffee-addicted friend sent me a case of the caramel flavored Java Pop as a small pick-me-up during my final exam week,and I've been drinking these ever since! It comes in 5 fabulous flavors: Espresso, Vanilla, Hazelnut, Mocha, and Caramel.  It's $4.99 for a 4-pack and the case of 24 Java Pops are currently on sale for $29.99.

Handpicked by Fab 5 Friday Guest Editor Songyi Kim

Apple USB Speakers

My boyfriend gave this to me awhile ago as a just-because gift and I was in love with these speakers
(the boyfriend as well, of course :D). At $9.50, these speakers are a must have for the funky audiophile!

Handpicked by Fab 5 Friday Guest Editor Songyi Kim

Fab 5 Friday, Issue 58 - Kelly Delp

Today's guest editor is Kelly Delp who's been a happy, lifetime resident of Indiana. Kelly is a full time student about to graduate with her degree in Secondary English Education.

"When I'm not neck deep in school I'm trying to find cool new places to eat and awesome things to do," says Kelly. "I consider myself a minimalist but am into so many things that my life is always cluttered."

Kelly is really into art, especially discovering art in all its creations in unexpected places. "I think everything is art, including food, make-up, and things that randomly sit on my dresser," says Kelly.  "I'm all about living my dreams now, so right after graduation I am moving to Paris. Waiting to become a European is torture, but I'm slowly learning to appreciate the journey!"

Strawberry Print Bowl

My mother's aunt died when I was about two, but for some reason I can remember that her kitchen was decked out in strawberries. (Not actual strawberries, but eerie photographed strawberries.) This bowl looks like something she would have loved, and I am digging on the 70's looking print inside the bowl. There are other prints available. $8 at Perpetual Kid

Handpicked by Fab 5 Guest Editor Kelly Delp

Wizard of Oz Glasses

I have always been slightly obsessed with the Wizard of Oz. When I was about ten, I found my dad's old Wizard of Oz book which was full of sketched illustrations. These glasses make me so happy! They are so true to the original book illustrations.  $8 at Urban Outfitters (They have Alice in Wonderland too!)

Handpicked by Fab 5 Guest Editor Kelly Delp

Stroopwafels

I have visited Amsterdam twice, and absolutely loved it. And the one thing I crave SO BAD from there are the Stroopwafels! They are cookie sort of things, with two thin wafers with a buttery caramel syrup in between. They might not look like anything special but trust me...you will want to send me flowers after you taste these. $5.19 at Holland's Best

Handpicked by Fab 5 Guest Editor Kelly Delp

Sushi Robe

Who doesn't love sushi? (Don't raise your hand, we'll make fun of you!) This robe looks so comfy, and the print is so pretty! I would so wear this around the house...to Starbucks...to class... $92 at The Cat's Pajamas

Handpicked by Fab 5 Guest Editor Kelly Delp

Hanging Photo Frame Jewelry Box

I got one of these for Christmas, and I positively LOVE it! At first glance it is a photo collage, but you can open the front of it and store your jewelry. AND it's super affordable! $38 at Walmart

Handpicked by Fab 5 Guest Editor Kelly Delp

Fab 5 Friday, Issue 57 - Barbara Fine

Today's guest editor is Barbara Fine.  Barbara loves great design and all things that are planet-friendly.

Barbara owns a shop that we think is fabulous, called Little Footprints, a new on-line toy store specializing in Planet Friendly fun for kids of all ages.  She also runs BFine Design Consulting, a successful Interior Design consulting firm in Toronto, Ontario through which she has been asked to contribute to a number of articles regarding residential design.

"As an interior designer for nearly 20 years, I have recently directed my passion for superior design into Little Footprints where I offer a collection of the finest eco-friendly toys and games to Canadians," says Barbara. "We carry toys with small carbon footprints that are big on fun for everyone and beautifully made."

Barbara is a proud 30-something mum of Saskia and Zane, ages 2 and nearly 5, "who keep me young at heart and remind me every day of the wonder of life."

Visit Barabara's shop and blog today!

Animal Balance Eraser Game

A bunch of colourful animal erasers that's also a balancing game. A distraction with a function - that's my kind of desk toy. Japanese made.  $15 at MOMA exclusive

Handpicked by Fab 5 Friday Guest Editor Barbara Fine

Etta Bloom Paisley Hat

It's probably this cold Canadian winter but I love hats - especially ones like the funky Etta Bloom hat. Handmade from her own patterns by Jen of Piper and Paisley. Custom fitting available if you ask and provide measurements. Just $51.00 and a bit of shipping.

Handpicked by Fab 5 Friday Guest Editor Barbara Fine

Felted Fairy Purse

My daughter would squeal with delight if she knew I found this Felted Purse complete with Fairy. Handmade in Vermont, sweet & stunning. After February 10th and the new CPSIA regulations it likely can't be sold for kids – how silly. Get it while you still can. $16 from Vermont Fairies.

Handpicked by Fab 5 Friday Guest Editor Barbara Fine

Vintage Motorbike Cuff Links

Speaking of cuffs, maybe my husband would feel more cool in a suit if I got him these Vintage Motorbike cuff links. On sale for $33.15 at the Cufflinks House

Handpicked by Fab 5 Friday Guest Editor Barbara Fine

Whitelotus Wrist Cuff

I don't wear many necklaces much any more as my children love to play with them but I love wearing wrist cuffs. Canada's Whitelotus offers this one-of-a-kind baby on their Etsy shop – sterling silver, gemstones and pearls - what's not to love? $90 Cdn

Picked by Fab 5 Friday Guest Editor Barbara Fine

Fab 5 (Etsy!) Friday, Issue 56 - Gretchen Alice

It's an Etsy Fab 5 Friday!

Gretchen, from Salt Lake City, Utah, is a pop culture junkie and also a style addict. She believes in the High Fidelity principle that what really matters is what you like, not what you are like. Currently, Gretchen loves Pushing Daisies, Joshua Radin, typography, and twitter. She would love it if you stopped by her blog, Gretch-a-sketch, to learn more about her. She's also got this awesome giveaway going right now for some vintage Christmas cards.

Another one of Gretchen's obsessions is music, so she wanted to bring you a Fab Five devoted to gifts for the music lovers in your life.

Record Pillow

Perfect for: Yourself, because this is too cool to share with anyone else.  From the knitted grooves to the record label embroidery, every music lover needs this in their home. And really, they couldn't have picked a better album than The Velvet Underground & Nico LP. $68 at Toggle on etsy.

Synthesizer Screenprinted Necktie

Perfect for: Your hip older brother.  This tie is a combination of nerd meets hipster meets attitude--just like your brother. $30 at Toybreaker on etsy.

Beatles Cuff Links

Perfect for: Your dad.  Money can't buy you love, but it can buy you these awesome cuff links. Let your father show off his inner-rocker while wearing a suit and tie. $25 at Bellamodartist on etsy.

Victrola Onesie

Perfect for: Your brand-new niece or nephew.  Any baby wearing this onesie knows how to kick it old school--really old school. Both mom and baby will appreciate that the design is printed on super-soft organic cotton. $20 from Mothpress on etsy.

Johnny and Frances Magnets

Perfect for: Your Mom.  No woman can resist the charms of Patrick Swayze as Johnny, the dance instructor at Kellerman's. Sneak these magnets into her stocking and remember that nobody puts baby in a corner. (And check out the soundtrack, if you haven't already!) $5 at Elloh on etsy.

Fab Five Friday, Issue 55- Amanda Toris

Amanda Toris lives on the scenic Jersey shore with her adorable spouse and her tiny dog, whose name is Molly Brown Truffles. Amanda grew up in the cold depths of Maine and enjoys spending time with her family, the ocean, and the Boston Red Sox.  When Amanda is not working for "the man", or creating treats for happy dogs everywhere, you may find her here, each week, discussing the wonderful world of Pampered Pets for Rare Bird Finds.

Ktog-Oil and Knitting on Canvas

When I was a kid, I would watch my grandmother knit for hours. I was often mesmerized by how quickly her hands were able to move in conjunction with the knitting needles and yarn. It wasn’t until I was 14 or 15 years old that she finally taught me to knit, and I started to appreciate the work that went into each piece that she made. These amazing multimedia oil paintings by Rania Hassan always remind me of how I felt when I watched my grandmother knit. $360.00 at Gosh Darn Knit.

Musical Notes- Notecards

I've got a pretty unhealthy relationship with stationery.  No, really, it's true.. my husband will tell you that I have more stationery than I have people to write letters to. I would, in turn, agree but it doesn't mean I don't always need more. (People to write to, and stationery.) These little notes by artist Susie Ghahremani are JUST the kind of things that I hoard. $14.95 at Plasticland.

Black Birds in a Tree Teapot

Tea.  I drink lots of it. Four out of five tea drinkers may argue that it's way more fun to drink tea from a teapot. (Vs.. you know, just heating water in the microwave.)  This teapot is quite adorable, and very affordable too! $35.00 at Soule.

Art Nouveau Initial Pendant

I’m a sucker for pretty much anything that’s monogrammed or contains at least one of my initials. This Art Nouveau Initial Pendant is handmade and absolutely stunning. $165.00 at Istanbul Designs.

Conserve-Bamboo Utensil Set

I did the greatest thing ever when I purchased myself one of these Bamboo Utensil Sets a few months ago. The utensils are very sturdy, easily cleaned, and reusable. They even come in a really great holder made from recycled plastic bags. No more plastic utensils for this gal!!! $19.95 from To-Go Ware.

Fab 5 Friday, Issue 54 - Ari Bryant

Ari lives in sunny Oakland, California has lived in the same house all of her life.  For awhile she was so obsessed with Japanese Anime that she became determined to learn Japanese.  She studied abroad in Osaka, Japan for four months.

While in college,  Ari spent a semester in Australia where she petted the actually Kangaroo Jack and go scuba diving in the Great Barrier Reef. "It was heaps cool," says Ari. "I was totally floored by the experience."

Ari has an upcoming 5-week winter break and is headed for" Europe. I'm going to visit some family in Denmark, swing over to France and see some friends, take a roundabout pit-stop in jolly old England, and lastly make it to Rome," says Ari.  "I'm desperate to see any works by Gian Lorenzo Bernini, he's like the greatest artist ever, but he never gets the credit he deserves."

The photo was taken by Ari during a fun day of shopping with friends.

One-year Subscription of Stashmedia

There is a whole world of commercials, game cinematics, music videos, short films, promos, and virals that we never get to see here in the states. This one-year subscription to stashmedia is chock full of the latest in 2D animation, 3D animation, claymation, paper cut outs, and more. As an added bonus they also feature the behind-the-scenes movie magic that goes into making these delectable tidbits. $249 at Stashmedia.

Five Fingers Classics

Never got over the joys of running outside in your bare feet?  That's ok, neither did the people who made these niffty little "shoes." The Vibram FiveFingers retain the sensation of strolling along barefoot without any of the impracticality of actually doing so. Designed to give superior arch support you can go on your evening dog walk, hiking, and even mountain climbing. $70 at Vibram.

Uncle Tio's Tortilla Soup

Despite the fact that the words uncle and tio mean the exact same thing in two different languages the people down at Kokopelli's Kitchen do know their stuff. I picked up a bag of their tortilla soup during a stop-over in Arizona on a lark and was not disappointed. Whether you are cooking-impaired (like myself) or you just don't have enough time to make food more challenging than PB&J (minus the PB and the J for the monetarily challenged) you can't go wrong. These vegetarian-friendly multi-portioned packages come with everything but the water. $5.99 at Kokopelli's Kitchen.

Lippi Selk Bag

As someone who goes mano y mano with her pillow and covers nightly, only to wake up in the fetal position shivering, I've often contemplated moving to the Mediterranean where they have tropical days and warm nights. But due to my lack of funds,  I've opted for a slightly more feasible solution. With the super versatile Lippi Selk sleeping bag I get to have my cake and eat it, too. The Lippi Selk bag can also double as a sofa, floor rug, space exploration suit, or impromptu dance-off costume. £89.00 or roughly $137.98 at Lippi Selk.

Endless Soybean Keychain

To all of my fellow OCD-ers who can't afford to be caught in those pesky weekly board meetings with electronic bubble wrap, your salvation is at hand. This super cute little endless soybean keychain comes with three randomly chosen faces that never cease to illicit giggles. $7.80 at JBOX.

Fab 5 (Etsy!) Friday, Issue 53 - Anyela Descartes Caballero

"My picks for this Etsy Fab 5 Friday are: Savvy and yummylicious beauty treats. All of the items mentioned here are handmade and all are characterized by something: sweet!," says Anyela, who was born in Puerto Rico.

Anyela makes eye-catching jewelry and handbags at her newly launched shop Fashion Specialty.  She is also a mother of a 32-month daughter, and loves to pamper herself with beauty treatments at home after a long day. 

Shea Butter Whipped Cream

Pamper yourself with this natural wonder of perfectly blended texture. Choose among a great variety of yummylicious scents.  $8.50 at Satin Petals Soap

Baby Legs Neapolitan Shaving Soap

Get back your groove with this Shaving Soap! I felt in love when I saw this. Definite a cheaper way than grocery stores shaving creams and it's all Natural!!!  It leaves your skin smooth and silky. $4.60 at Gudonya TOO.

Candy Corn Cracklin' Wick Candle

Can't forget your Scented Candle during your beauty treatments. This candle comes with a  wood wick that will remind you of sitting in front of the fireplace. It  makes a soothing crackling sound as the flame burns the wood wick...Love It!  What's better than a vanilla candy with top notes of butter and a hint of almond, reminds you of something? $8 at Smokey Mountain Scents.

Raspberry Vanilla Cupcake Soap

Enjoy this real size handcrafted Raspberry Vanilla Cupcake Soap without the guilt!  This can make such a perfect gift at an affordable price. The best of it?... it moisturizes and you don't have to worry about the calories!  $4.50 each at LilyBaySoap

Sweet Citrus and Lavender Body Polish

Dreamed of walking through a lavender field holding hands with your loved one while sharing an orange?  Well, this is exactly what you are going to remember when you try this gentle all natural handmade moisturizing scrub.  Sweet memories? $6 at The Pig and the Peacock

Fab 5 Friday, Issue 52 - Kirsten Schueler

Kirsten is a stay at home to a 15 month old daughter Miriam.  She is also a former Art teacher and all around crafty gal!  "I love to create everything I can get my hands on," says Kirsten.  "If I can't be creative one day, cooking is a good substitute."

When comes to being crafty Kirsten loves to sew, paint, draw, sculpt, make jewelry, you name it!  "My daughter keeps me super busy so sometimes I don't have time to be creative; scouting all the fun online blogs and shops keeps me inspired."

Kirsten runs the shop, Hershey Is My Baby (Her suitcase pet bed was a Rare Bird Finds feature!). Be sure to check out her blog, Green is the New Blue.

**Want to be a Fab 5 Guest Editor, too?!  Click here to find out how!**

Stackable Rings

What a simple gift! These rings can be personalized with a name or any word you choose. $22 from Lisa Leonard

Integrity Alternative Motivational Poster

Remember the "Hang in There" cat? Well, this is not your normal "motivational" poster. This gorgeous print by Right Brain Terrain is available for $15 at Vitamin D(esign).

Fonts for Peas

Have you ever wanted a chance to have a free font of your own handwriting? Would you like for it to be available for other fun people to download? Then check out Kevin and Amanda over at Fonts for Peas!

Follow her guidelines for submission and if she likes it, you're in and it's FREE!

Woven Clothing Labels

These gorgeous customized clothing labels are just the perfect touch to that hand knitted sweater or quilt. They are available in many styles and over 13 colors. I bought these for my mother who knits wonderful things for my daughter and the labels are beautiful! $38 for 50 labels from Name Maker

Safety Tats

No more silly looks from passersby while you scrawl on your child with a permanent marker at a Theme Park! Order these fun temporary tattoos with your phone number and help keep your children safe if they should get lost on a field trip or at an Amusement Park. They are even waterproof so they will work at your favorite water park! And of course you get to be the cool mom by giving in to your child's wild desire for temporary tattoos! They also carry allergy alert tattoos.

And if you order before October 27, 2008, you can get Halloween styles in time for Trick or Treat night!
30 Safety Tattoos for $19.95

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Fab 5 (Etsy!) Friday, Issue 51 - Marilyn P. Sushi

It's an Etsy Fab 5 Friday!

Marilyn is a native New Yorker, a yoga fiend, a fan of horror movies, and 100% caffeinated. She spent years tapping into her creativity trying to find the right outlet for until she started making jewelry. Now she is having a blast coming up with pieces for her shop Pulp Sushi using vintage finds and the boldest, brightest of colorful charms. "I draw inspiration from my interests in vintage pinup glamour, retro/contemporary design, horror, and low-brow art," says Marilyn.

Keep up with Marilyn and what's going on at Pulp Sushi by visiting her blog.

Want to be a Fab 5 Guest Editor, too?!  Click here to find out how!