the pink squirrel in cherry valley

If there is one thing Mohawk Valley Girl (um, that’s me) loves, it is an eclectic, artsy boutique. I recently discovered a new one in Cherry Valley: The Pink Squirrel.

I happened upon it quite by accident when I unexpectedly found myself in Cherry Valley (long story, not very interesting). I saw that it was open and went in. What a treat was in store for me! I cannot possibly list all the beautiful and interesting things you can find in this shop: vintage items, works by local artists, unique clothing, stickers, notecards, even a few food items (including candy!). As soon as I walked in the door, I knew it was a place I would like to make a regular stop.

The store occupies two rooms in one of those old main street storefronts which one can still find in small town New York state, with big windows letting in lots of sun and beautiful woodwork throughout. Owner Elizabeth Graham told me that one of the rooms had previously housed the Lincoln Lounge, which sold vinyl records. This was after Nancy Erway, an avid Elvis fan, had a café in there. Some 30 years ago, she installed a 1970s bright yellow Lincoln Continental, which is still there. Also remaining is part of an orange bar.

I had a wonderful time looking around and chatting with Elizabeth.

“I love vintage, but I mix it with natural fiber clothing,” she said. I especially admired the socks, some made with alpaca wool.

Elizabeth is also a great supporter of local artists and artisans.

“If I like it, I buy it,” she said. “People bring me things and say, ‘I make this, are you interested?’ “

I loved a wall full of metal ornaments made from scrap. Reduce, reuse, recycle! Other items for sale include jellies, cookies and breads from Brimstone Bakery in Sharon Springs, and a shelf full of classic children’s books.

“The Snowy Day!” I exclaimed. “I remember that book!” It was actually my younger sister’s book; I am older than I look!

Also available for children are fun toys suck as tops and finger puppets. I love finger puppets!

I spent some time admiring postcards and note cards, being a great aficionado of snail mail and the so-called lost art of letter writing (I don’t say my letters are works of art, but I do write them). I purchased one with a cute barnyard scene that I am sure one of my correspondents will get a kick out of. Elizabeth also makes handmade post card using antique ephemera. •

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