Wednesday, August 11, 2010

The First Piece

Like many, I grew up surrounded by Pyrex. My mom wasn't a collector per se, but she used Pyrex because it was (and will always be) durable, functional, and multi-purpose. I don't recall having any of the pretty bowls and bakeware we've seen on this blog, but we always had a Pyrex measuring cup and that ubiquitous juice jar covered in oranges (correct me if I'm wrong about the juice jug being Pyrex). I was going to "interview" my mom about her Pyrex memories, but she really didn't have any. She just used it when she needed it.
When I first moved out on my own, I bought a Pyrex measuring cup, but that was all. A couple of years ago, I was at the Cosburn United Church Fall Rummage Sale. This is going to sound ridiculously corny, but I actually saw this divided Pyrex serving dish across a crowded room. It was propped up in a box and it was love at first sight. The room was seriously packed. I was already loaded with other bits and pieces, but I made my way to the table and asked a man how much it was. "How about five bucks," he replied. Sold! Oh yeah, it's called Constellation and as you can see, it comes with twin candle warmers. Nice touch!

Last fall, I discovered the exact same serving dish tucked away in a cupboard at my parents' house. Thinking hard, I began to have vague memories of this dish at Christmas gatherings. I'm sure it had green beans on one side and corn on the other. Mom told me to take it. She didn't see herself using it anymore.
That's how I ended up with two identical pieces of Pyrex and basically how I became a collector. I must also add that I've been inspired and educated by the Pyrex gurus out there in the blogosphere. You know who you are. One person who isn't a part of this posse who got me excited about Pyrex early on is Jade, who used to contribute to Thriftaholic. I'd love for her to get involved.

Anyway, that's my story. Now I need to join a 12-step program. LOL
Erin - Yard Sale Snoop

11 comments:

  1. erin, that is a great story! so where it all began was actually before where it all began...rooted in your childhood! so cool.

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  2. Erin how fun to hear your story. I love my Pyrex and I will have to write something soon on here, I promise!!

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  3. Thanks, ladies. Linda, I'm going to hold you to that. Now the pressure is on. Don't let me down. What do you have hiding in your cupboards. I WANT TO KNOW!!!
    I feel better now.
    E

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  4. So many things commemorated the first space flight (Sputnik) in the 50s with new "modern" designs. "Constellation" is a good example of our nation's l959 collective thinking about traveling to other planets being possible some day. It reminds me of my kids' love of the Jetsons TV cartoon series, and it makes me smile.

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  6. I love those dishes and I can't believe you've got one cradle let alone two! If you're at a loss about what to do with the second one, I have a birthday in April ;]

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  7. And i'll be joining the Pyrex cult :) I can't wait to unearth some low priced, functional pieces!

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  8. Your Christmas buffet this year is going to ROCK! (Even if you've never had a Christmas buffet before, you have to now.)

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  9. That pattern rocks! You are doubly blessed!

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  10. Ain't not doubt about it I was doubly blessed. I'm barely 17 and I'm barely dressed.
    Thanks for the comment, P.
    I'll sleep on it and give you an answer in the morning.
    Erin

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  11. That is a cool piece of Pyrex.

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