Matilda's Mouse is a once-a-month antique sale in Valley Center, California, close to San Diego, but more mountainous and 'deserty' than ocean cool. The day was sunny and warm and we found a charming lot of antiques and collectibles all set about in pretty vignettes both inside and out of a great big ole barn.
The monthly sale is the effort of seven women who combine their love of antiques and bring together their finds both domestic and international. After the sale, the wares are put away and they set about planning for next month's sale. When asked how long it takes them to set up the displays, one of the lovely ladies told it it takes a month to get set up all over again; each vignette is unique and one-of-a-kind. You'll never see the same thing twice. Quelle labeur! Overseeing all is Matilda, the "cutest Wire Haired Fox Terrier" in the whole wide world who dresses in costume and lazes on the counter. At 15 years old, she's the grande dame of the whole shebang and can do what she darn well pleases.
Matilda's Mouse is a pleasant day trip and you'll find very well-priced treasures to take home.