crystal, crystal everywhere

I guess I'm trying to make up for lost time by bombarding you with multiple entries and tons of pictures!

Several weeks ago, a friend from work invited me to join her on an outing to a crystal sale at a crystal warehouse. I said, "Sure, but I don't really like crystal." Well, 200 euro and almost 70 pieces later, I guess that the truth is that I do like crystal, just not the more traditional pieces that I was picturing in my head. The vase above caught my eye from across the room, the first piece of many that I had to have. It is amazing to me that such beautiful pieces are made so near to my home (less than half an hour away) and are available at amazing prices. Many of the pieces have slight flaws, but they're imperceptable to my eyes. Some of the pieces are Tiffany, Waterford or Lenox! And I have to say that I love a bargain!

Feel free to scroll past the many many pics if you have no interest in the crystal!

This one is a simple Tiffany piece:

These are hand blown glass balls. I watched the artist making other glass creations...very, very cool!

This piece was my big splurge. I purchased it in the regular crystal shop, rather than the warehouse. I debated with myself over the purchase, but just kept returning to this hand-made bowl. It fits our homeand our style perfectly and I'm so glad that I didn't leave the shop without it!

This is another of my favorite pieces, a Tiffany rock plate. And one of the best bargains. Purchased for 7 euros (about $10), it sells for $140!! What a deal! Though now you all know my crystal secret!

I purchased several serving pieces, so that Jerry and I will be equipped to be good hosts for entertaining:

I got some fun knick-knacks....a Christmas tree that reflects light beautifully and a snowman tealight holder, along with a crystal Mnnie Mouse, reversible taper/votive holders, and a ring holder.

When we first moved to Germany, a box of items never made it to us. That box contained sets of drinking glasses that were never really replaced. This seemed like an excellent opportunity to replace the glasses and add some extras!

I love these old-fashioned champagne glasses, a much more practical option than the very breakable flutes in the hands of a certain husband.

A couple of decanters:

And finally, a very cool martini set! Now I just need to start liking martinis! I think this will be my Cosmopolitan set instead!

All in all, a very successful shopping outing!