Years ago there was a movie called Same Time Next Year starring Alan Alda and Ellen Burstyn. It is about a couple who meet up and have an affair once a year. Honestly, I don't remember much about the movie, but it came up in the back of my mind when I started thinking about annual rituals. My previous post seems to have become an annual ritual, a day to remember...not that I don't remember the events of 9/11/2001 every other day of the year.
On the Jersey Shore, there is a little town called Ocean Grove that I have loved for a very long time now. Some of my friends live here. Twice a year, no matter what the weather, my husband and I wake up at the crack of dawn and make our pilgrimage to Ocean Grove.
Driving down Ocean Avenue through Sea Bright, to Deal, through Asbury Park and there is the blue and white sign welcoming us. All the anticipation is not for the beach
although it was a beautiful day and the beach looked just so perfect. We were also not there to see the fantastic architecture
that never ceases to delight me. The fun colors of the Victorian houses mixed in with the classic sea shore colonials and the once grand hotels that may have seen better days.
We weren't even there to stop in at the lovely shops and restaurants that were preparing for those fun fall holidays. No, we were there to attend their bi-annual flea market.
Although I will say up front that we bought nothing, there was plenty of eye candy. Crazy amounts of mid-century pottery, and Christmas must have been on the dealers minds because there was a lot of seasonal cheer as well. I almost fell for that little winged piglet...too cute! The plaid quilt was at the show last year, still with its 250.00 price tag...much too steep for me, but boy is it pretty...maybe one day I will make one.
There was furniture of the shabby and chic variety and some nice pieces of old pine and oak as well.
And I found more than enough bling in the form of crystal dishes and chandeliers. I really liked the milk shake maker in the picture above along with the old wrought iron grates. If I had thought twice I might have bought the shiny bird Christmas tree ornaments...they were perfect.
The sun came out, full and hot, and we beat a hasty retreat empty handed knowing full well that we will be back in June for the next flea market and then again in September...same time next year. After the earthquakes and hurricanes, the terrorists and what ever else gets thrown our way it is just nice to do those rituals year after year. The same old, same old is looking pretty good to me right now.
This post is being linked to Little Red House for Mosaic Monday, Smiling Sally for Blue Monday and Between Naps on the porch for the always inspiring Metamorphosis Monday.
♥, Susan
Ahhh, Ocean Grove. Good memories.
Posted by: georgiapeachez | September 10, 2011 at 08:27 PM
I've only visited Ocean Grove once, and that was awhile ago! Some year I hope to attend this flea market --it looks like fun!
Posted by: Pat | September 11, 2011 at 02:24 PM
Looks like a great place to visit. I love visiting beaches on the Jersey shore. Lovely photos and mosaic.
Posted by: Eileen | September 11, 2011 at 05:14 PM
Ocean Grove looks like a nice place to explore.
Posted by: Lavender Cottage | September 11, 2011 at 05:38 PM
I believe it is important to go on and make plans and stick to the rituals and yearly outings as we always have. If we stay home and lock the doors, the bad guys will have won.
I enjoyed that market outing and wish I lived near enough to see it for real!
Posted by: Pondside | September 11, 2011 at 05:39 PM
Beautiful set of images. The Victorian houses are nice.
Posted by: Rajesh | September 11, 2011 at 05:49 PM
Susan,
I enjoyed this post very much. You really had me wanting to keep reading as you built up the suspense. I HAD to find out why you went to Ocean Grove!
-Karen
Posted by: My Little Home and Garden | September 11, 2011 at 06:05 PM
What a great place. And the photos are beautiful. Thanks for sharing. And thank you for visiting my blog. Hope you will come back and visit again. Hugs, Karie
Posted by: Karie | September 11, 2011 at 09:32 PM
Looks like such a beautiful place! So nice you and your hubby get to spend this time together!
Blessings,
Cindy
Posted by: Cindy | September 12, 2011 at 01:01 AM
Beautiful architecture indeed. This is a place I think I would enjoy visiting. What grand treasures there were for the offering!! Just be you had the best time! Wishing you an even grander week!
Posted by: Cathy | September 12, 2011 at 02:44 AM
I am sure you enjoyed the trip and the day even if you bought nothing this time. Flea markets can be just so fun. V
Posted by: Valerie | September 12, 2011 at 04:01 AM
What wonderful architecture... it looks like a delightful town to poke around and spend time seaside!
Posted by: Mary | September 12, 2011 at 04:17 AM
Trip sound like a fun time to do each year. I am sure you look forward to it as it approaches. I like the quilt too.
Posted by: Juy | September 12, 2011 at 05:28 AM
What a wonderful place to visit! I can see why you visit each year. Fun and memories!!!
Posted by: Snap | September 12, 2011 at 06:06 AM
I have been there and loved it. We all have special places we like to escape to. Thanks for sharing yours.
Posted by: Carolina Mts | September 12, 2011 at 07:04 AM
That milkshake mixer brings back some sweet memories. Thanks for sharing your blues.
Happy Blue Monday, Susan.
Posted by: Sally | September 12, 2011 at 07:45 AM
Beautiful! Thanks for sharing.
Posted by: Joann | September 12, 2011 at 08:09 AM
Beautiful place. Have to say I'm not sure I could have left empty handed!
Posted by: Carol @ There's Always Thyme to Cook | September 12, 2011 at 09:13 AM
Hi Susan! This pilgrimage looks so worthwhile looking at all the great architecture and scenery! I really enjoyed being there through your photos and mosaics. Have a great week.
Posted by: ellen b | September 12, 2011 at 09:24 AM
Beautiful shots!
My Blue Monday is here.
Posted by: Pie | September 12, 2011 at 01:15 PM
The victorian houses are so beautiful. The stuff are gorgeous too. Happy Monday.
Mosaic Monday
Posted by: Kim,USA | September 12, 2011 at 02:36 PM
What a neat place, I love the old victorian homes..
Posted by: Joy | September 12, 2011 at 05:38 PM
I ♥NJ! ;) I missed going down the shore this year... will have to plan for next summer -- it will keep me going through the winter! xoxo
Posted by: mary | September 16, 2011 at 05:50 PM