creative process, lisa lillibridge, south dakota, identity, vermont, midlife, psychology, creativity, south dakota photographyLISA LILLIBRIDGE

I just returned from a two week trip to South Dakota attending a conference, visiting family, friends, and shooting loads of photos. I spent most of one week sorting through my grandfather’s letters, newspaper clippings, photographs, and books. Under lamplight, in a quiet basement office, Grandpa guided my research from beyond yonder. This research led to many discoveries and even more questions.

My mind’s eye is somehow seeing everything torn, creased, faded, scratched, or yellowed. I saw my new photographs in the same way when I got home to Vermont.

Perhaps that’s why I find myself looking backward. The past has a clarity I can no longer see in the present. —Kristin Hannah/The Nightengale

A special thanks to everyone who made my trip so quite special.

Jo and Mark, there are far more photographs I want to share. Your dedication to Herrick’s history is inspiring, and the dance hall is gorgeous. When you offer memberships, please let me know.

There are so many great places to treasure hunt in my neighborhood—Vintage Inspired and Deep 6 Goods on Flynn Ave, the Barge Canal Market on Pine Street and David Robbins’ Upstairs Antiques at 1335 Shelburne Road in South Burlington (scroll down for map).

I ran into David while we were both doing a little hunting last week at Goodwill. We had some catching up to do about the state of the world and I promised to go check out his shop. Here are some images I shot at Upstairs ANTIQUES.

David’s shop for years was where the new City Market is being built on Flynn Avenue in Burlington. You have to work a little harder to find his shop now, but stopping by this well-curated shop will be well worth your effort. I picked up a framed print by my photographic hero, Dorthea Lange and funky hammer with a painted handle (see below).