The Carousel

Do you find yourself daydreaming of when you were a child, and had not a care in the world? Did you ever spin yourself round and round, and then closing your eyes, drop to the floor in dizzy delight?
Yes, we remember fondly, those lighthearted, carefree moments in time. Many of which were spent on the nearby carousel, that beckoned to us in the warmth of summertime.

This fabulous attraction, for both young and old, bore bright colored lights, and sweet sounding music. Thus, calling everyone at the park to gather, for a fantastical whirring ride.
Would you climb aboard the grand white horse, with the red ribbons curling down her mane? Or did you prefer to sit on the bench-like seat, that afforded you the "feet firmly on the ground" experience?

Our beautiful, old neighborhood carousel, has recently been rescued and gloriously restored. Assuring one and all, that it may continue to speak out to new generations of amusement lovers.

Yes, it is just a simple, vintage carousel. It has no fancy loops, or twists. But it is a marvelous, hand-carved piece of historical, and magical value. A living, breathing, work of mechanical art.

We at Skylark Manor encourage you to find the nearest carousel, and take a quick ride back to your youth. It is a sure way to put a smile on your face.

Oh, and don't forget to get that gumball afterwards. Have fun! -Al

Photos via tumblr.com, maidenluxe.blogspot.com, thebalancingact.com

Add A Key To Your Heart

Vintage skeleton keys have always been fascinating little objects that reveal memories of doorways to the past. These beautiful and quite charming pieces of metal, were used to unlock cabinets, chests, and secrets of an older day. Perhaps they were the keys to what lay in the future? Ahh, maybe so.

                                            Photo from Etsy

Whatever the case, they certainly conjure up memories of the long lost days filled treasures, triumphs, and dreams.
Today, they are a great collectible that anyone's budget can afford.
Many of these little gems were made of brass and pewter, adorned with simple or more elaborate designs. They were easily slipped into a pocket or a purse, to be summoned when the time was right to gain entry to one's home or possessions. A charming personal accessory, if you will, to a private hidden treasure.

                               Photo by Thegreenj via Wikipedia

                               Photo by timeless-journals.com

Nowadays, these keys are often repurposed as jewelry, chimes, or just common trinkets on an entry table. Mysterious little characters that speak to us in the quiet of our mind. Leaving us wondering aloud, what possible secrets they once held so dear. Hmmm... I guess we'll never really know, will we? -Al

The Hat Makes The Man

Call us old fashioned, but the fedora is one of our favorite accessories on a man. (Ladies, please don't feel left out, you can take one for a spin too.) This hat just oozes class and character. Right down to how a gentleman tips it forward on his head, or takes it in hand, across his chest, as a gesture of courtesy. Ah, the good old days.
This fashionable piece has been worn by the likes of Humphrey Bogart, Frank Sinatra, Harrison Ford, Run DMC, Johnny Depp, etc. It just shows how this hat has never really gone out of style. This small sampling below depicts an eclectic group of men, that certainly knew the laws of attractive dressing, then and now. Whether for the movie set or stepping out on the town, this vintage style is so current and relevant.
With the warm weather releasing it's hold on some of us, this would be the perfect time to look into your armoire and search out that fedora. Adorn yourself, or a loved one, in a practical and oh so very stylish wardrobe staple. If you don't already own one (we won't tell) put it on your fall to-do list. You'll thank us, and definitely turn some heads. These fine lads did! -Al

                                          Humphrey Bogart

                                             Frank Sinatra

                                            Marlon Brando

                                              Cary Grant

                                                Run DMC

                                           Harrison Ford

                                             Johnny Depp

                    Brad Pitt (Poor George Clooney forgot his hat)

                                         Justin Timberlake