Cottage Elements

"Just Poppin' in to Say Hi!"

2012-04-17T17:32:00.000-05:00

Well hello there! You may have noticed, but I was absent again for a little bit. I actually was on vacation. Yippee skippy and lucky me!! But I just had to pop in and say "hi", to let you know I haven't forgotten about y'all. I was actually in Texas takin' in some of their good ole southern hospitality! Loved Texas! Hopin' I'll be able to get back there again real soon. It was for the National Disabled Hockey Tournament and got to watch my daughter play with her team, the Minnesota Special Hockey Stars. I didn't get any antiquing in (darn nab it). But that's really okay. It was a family affair, so they took precedence.

Stay tuned. I've got a give-a-way in the works. Keep your eyes pealed!

Until then,

Does This Side Table Stack Up?

2012-04-06T09:38:00.001-05:00

Does this side table stack up? I think the answer is a definite YES!! I recently purchased these newspaper books. They're all from the City of Glencoe, Minnesota and house each year of the Glencoe Newspaper, from the early 1900's up to the 1960's. What a great find! And how fun to flip through them!

Each book was dated by the year.

Most of them were actually hardbound, but this one had a cardboard cover with the date stamped on the top. It was also nailed together. Yes, I said nailed. Very unique!

It was fun looking through the ads and articles. This one is kind of funny. Anyone need any dead stock....eeeew!

The cartoons are hilarias! I'm wondering if this is how all the kids are feeling right about now with all this amazing weather!

I found two articles in one of the books about this same man. One was annoucing his retirement, the other announcing his death. Makes you not want to ever retire!

Hey guys! You can get your new suits just in time for Easter! Ha! Okay, now I'm getting way too carried away looking through all the articles and ads!!

So back to my side table. It became totally obvious what these needed to be when I had them all stacked up...a side table!

Waa-laa! Instant side table! Easy peazy!

And I actually think the backside looks just as cool.

This numbered box goes with the flow on JUNKMARKET Style Contributor Jim Healy's Top Ten List to hold the remotes.

Now I'm all set to sit down and watch my favorite shows! American Idol anyone?

To see more of my JUNKMARKET projects, click the link on the side of my blog.

April Fools or Happy Monday!

2012-04-01T22:58:00.000-05:00

So maybe it's "late" April Fools, but I snatched this picture of our cat "Indy" in the only spot of sun he could find, bathing himself. He even placed his paw in the appropriate spot so to be more discrete. It was so cute, I felt it would give everyone a good "April Fools" laugh, or if you read this tomorrow, maybe just a Monday morning pick-me-up. He's a strange creature and sometimes I can't figure out if he really thinks he's a dog, or perhaps even human. And yes, I have caught him watching TV sitting like that! Like I said, he's a strange creature. April Fools or Happy Monday!

One of My Top Collectible Picks for 2012!

2012-03-26T10:32:00.000-05:00

As an Editor and Contributor of the JUNKMARKET Style website, I was asked to choose one of my top collectible picks for 2012. Of course my top pick would have to be "Industrial". Does that surprise any of you, coming from me? Ha! I've had a great fondness for industrial pieces and have found many ways to intigrated them into my decor. And whether it be farm industrial, office, medical or manufacturing, it seems to all work. And I simply can't get enough of it! Let me tell you, I have plenty of it in my home. And I do think it will continue to be a big collectible in 2012. So without further ado, my top junk pick is....drum roll please.....Industrial!!

This industrial desk sits on my front porch. It came out of some sort of factory. Must have been quite the factory though...love the gorgeous turquoise paint!

And how about this honkin' industrial fan. It was actually handmade and is on a stand. Can you say fab-u-lous!

An office file holder is a great industrial piece to display my vintage black and white family pictures.

And an industrial file cabinet can have so many uses.

This vase was a bottle gas cylinger cap. It's a fabulous industrial piece!

Wish I knew where this piece came from. No worry, I found the perfect place for it in my kitchen to hold my recipe books.

I'm very fond of medical industrial. This Torsion Balance Pharmacy Scale was a particularly great find.

These laboratory beakers give a softer edge to the medical industrial.

Industrial vintage store displays have great repurpose in kitchens. And of course this one has to be a wine bar!

And one of my most cherished industrial pieces is this highway guard rail. Who would have thunk a guard rail could look this chic!

Don't ever be afraid of industrial. It can fit into so many different styles. And it doesn't have to be hard. Soften it up with plants, painted furniture, wicker, natural woods. You may find you'll love it as much as I do!

To see more of my JUNKMARKET projects, click the link on the side of my blog.

Conveyor Belt turned Table Runner

2012-03-20T08:00:00.003-05:00

A picked up this little table runner beauty from Sarah Smith of Smith's Salvage at JUNKMARKET Under Glass in the fall of 2011. When I saw it, it was love at first sight! Sarah had two of them, and I had already missed out on one. Luckily I snatched this one up. I knew it would fit in with my industrial style and with my eight foot tin top table, it would work magnificiently! Sarah tells me she get's these all the time and she'll be at The Vintage Marketplace in Springfield, Ohio on May 18-20. I better let her know to bring more of these beauties! They are an amazing find!

I LOVED the metal mesh on this when I saw it.

And it's just the perfect width for a table runner.

Long enough, too, for my eight foot tin top table! Looks like my naughtly cat Hercie likes it, too! Dang cat....get off the table!

My cast iron English street sign will be the centerpiece on top. Ooooh...I like how this looks!

It says Castledine Avenue and it's VERY heavy!

I had to Google the street name to find out exactly where it is (of course I did....I Google everything!). It's located in Quorn, Loughboroughin the U.K.

Before Sarah came up for the JUNKMARKET Under Glass "March Madness", she called to let me know she had a baby conveyor belt/runner. You know I had to have it! And it fits perfectly on this little metal table I have.

Like I said....it fits perfectly!

Did I tell you...it fits perfectly!

Dang cats....looks like they all like my table runner!

To see more of my JUNKMARKET projects, click the link on the side of my blog.

More About You, Less About Everyone Else Trunk Show!

2012-03-14T12:35:00.000-05:00

So I may be a day late and a dollar short, but here are pictures from our January Trunk Show called "More about You, Less about Everyone Else". This was the second annual event and was once again held at Otten Bros. in Long Lake, MN. It was a huge success! Lots of people, lots of buying, lots of laughing, lots of lots! I love these small venues as it gives you a more intimate setting with your customers as well as the other vendors. Here's a few pictures of this fun event....because it was all about you!

Our blank canvas....perfect place to hold this event on a cold January day.

Sue helping me empty my vehicle. Thanks, girlfriend!

The bare bones of my space.

Not only did she help me empty out my truck, but she also helped me with my space :-)

The finished product! How's it look?

Have you noticed how I love aquariums? They are great for display!

I had purchased a whole bunch of these little boxes. They were a hot commodity!

Something else I bought a ton of, these keys and key fobs from a Nebreska convent.

Annie of Grace and Corazon was the first dealer to get set up.

Her religious inspired jewelry is always a big seller. Love!

She always has a beautiful display.

Along with her gorgeous jewelry!

Love this cuff....stunning!

She also has a line of hand created rings.

Jolie Raimondo is the next dealer who showed up...along with her hubby for help with the physical labor!

Her paintings are superb!

She does a great display...

and the quality of her work is truely amazing!

Julie Pierce from The Loft on 2nd was there with her creations.

She's known for her handpainted pots and tags.

But this was a new line of hers....wooden plaques. Lovely!

Mary Den Hartigh of Mary Jeans was there with her hand made pillows. So elegant!

And her messenger bags....I want this one. Oh my.....

Love Mary, too!

Lori Gravink of Ladeeda Design was there with her hand made recycled clothing line.

She also sells vintage.

Two of my favorite vendors, Tracie and Lee Anderson of Histories.

Isn't this industrial light phenomenal! Wow!

These jewelry stands by Histories are great for either business or personal.

Gretchen Schaumann of Mimi Torias Designs was also there with her unique one of a kind jewelry. Her displays are as fabulous as is her pieces!

Gretchen had a great variety of her vintage inspired earrings

I wanted this cabinet...alas it was part of her display :-(

Laurel Putman from Chipping with Charm is so darn cute! The photo is a little blurry, but I just had to put it up.

She's as cute as her booth!

Larry Moore of The Country Junk Sale also had some of his vintage farm pieces in the mix.

And then there's Devin Johnson from MakeShift accessories. His creativity is over the top amazing!

Is brother is always along for additional help. Wish I could remember his name. Oopsie doopsie!

Amazing cuff from Devin!

Like I said...amazing!

We had a great turn-out!

But we still had top to chat with the other vendors. Gretchen and Sue, get back to work...lol!

Lori's bleached out T's were so much fun!

And Annie's booth was always busy!

Isn't Sue the cat's pajama's in this vintage suit from Ladeeda Designs!

Hope you enjoyed my little tour! I know I go C-R-A-Z-Y sometimes with the pictures...but that's just me :-) Have a great day and see you in my next post. Hey, I think I'm getting back into the swing of things. Yeah!

Destination Vintage Marketplace - Springfield, Ohio!

2012-03-10T09:25:00.003-06:00

Talk about a road trip! Ventured to Nashville, Tennessee already this year with Sue Whitney and JUNKMARKET Style. Next destination, Ohio! Yippee skippy! I get to see all my junking peeps once again! I'll have pictures soon of the Nashvillle trip, but here's the info for the Ohio show. And if you've ever been to Springfield, I hear they really know how to do it right!

Here's all the details.....

Sue Whitney of JUNKMARKET Style will be on board to help launch the Vintage Marketplace to the Springfield Extravaganza in Ohio. This was a wildly popular addition to the Music City - Tailgate show in Hendersonville, TN this past February. So popular in fact, that the show can now be found this May at the Springfield Extravaganza. There will be returning vendors from Hendersonville, dealers from JUNKMARKET Under Glass, long time participants from the Extravaganza, and some brand spanking new vintage experts. Sounds like a not to be missed combo to me!!! JMS will be present a design booth (which means she better get my rear in gear) featuring fresh ideas for your home and garden all done up JUNKMARKET Style!! We are busy working on all of the details and events so stay tuned for for the nitty-gritty! Rumor has it there may be Friday night festivities, treasure hunts, shop alongs, possibly some good old fashioned Bingo for Show Bucks, and more! Woo hoo! i seriously can't wait. This promises to be way too much fun.

For those of you who have never been to the Vintage Marketplace or the Springfield Extravaganza- here a little bit of the back story. The Vintage Marketplace is a new edition to the Jenkin's shows. Think all things vintage, stylish, modern, junky and chic. This group of dealers will be housed in a series of large tents in the center hub of the May Extravaganza- May 18-20.

The Extravaganza itself is a 40 year old institution featuring 2,000 vendors and over 20,000 customers. The show boasts antiques, collectibles, garden, vintage, & flea market finds. Simply put, if you can't find it here, it can't be found.

The addition of the Vintage Marketplace to the Extravaganza means one thing. Take out your 2012 calendar and write the words "can't miss" on the dates May 18-20,2012.

Please visit www.vintagemarketplacestyle.blogspot.com for all of the details. I you would, please grab the badge on the side of my blog and put it on your blog to help spread the good news.

As she always says...."Create Your Own Style...One Piece of Junk at a time! At the Vintage Marketplace in Springfield, Ohio you can do just that. See you there!!!

Hey, Remember Me?

2012-03-08T22:07:00.000-06:00

Wow, a lot has happened in the last few months. You already know I worked a Christmas job (at Target). And lucky me, they liked me so much they kept me!? Oh joy?!! Then I went road tripping to Nashville (for the Vintage Marketplace) with my gal pals Julie Broshat of JULZ, Annie de Jongh of Grace and Corazon and Sue Whitney of JUNKMARKET. That's a story in and of itself (always is with Sue)...and it was an absolute blast!! Then...I quit my job at Target (happy, happy, joy, joy, happy, happy, joy!). Can you say relief? Let's just say it wasn't my dream job. But in Target's defense, it's an Amazing (with a capital A) company with amazing people. That's why I stayed on after the holidays. I just didn't want to say good bye to all my new friends!

Ok, now where was I?? I get so easily sidetracked! That darn A.D.D.! Oh yes, just some little thing I was doing next. Nothing big. I was just co-promoter with Sue Whitney for JUNKMARKET Under Glass "March Madness". Did I forgot to mention that??? It was really, really exciting (and a lot of work). Needless to say I have been a busy girl! And now I'm on to my next adventure. And with Target behind me, back to blogging. Yeah!!!!

So where do I go from here? We'll it's off to Ohio in May, for The Vintage Marketplace that's part of the "huge" Springfield show. I am so excited for that!!! I'll be back on the road with my gal pals. Yippee! And I'll also get to go hang out with Lisa from Urban Farmhouse (love her!), and meet more fun an exciting people. Wow, life is good!

I've got tons of pictures from the past events and will be posting them bit by bit. Guess I wasn't too busy to take pictures :-) I've really have missed my blogging friends. Can't wait to get back into the swing of things!

2011-12-08T06:00:00.001-06:00

Oh great birch tree, how lovely is your bark. And your branches, they reach high to the sky (insert sound effect of me clearing my throat). Okay, okay.....so I'm certainly no poet by any means. But I do love the look of the birch tree, and its bark, and so I decided to do a little vignette in ode to it and well...nature in general.

When you add birch into your indoor home decor, it brings a little bit of nature into your space. So when I decided to change up the little alcove I have as you first walk into my house, I found myself putting a little birch theme together.

This little twig tree was purchased new, but it fit right into my "theme". The planter was made for me by my good friend Sue Wolfe. One of her Destination Art creations.

You could probably create your own version of this tree if you want to. Just decoupage' newspaper or book pages around some twigs.

How about a real birds nest placed in a vintage drinking bubbler. Can't get much more le'naturale than that!

And how about bringing a bird bath inside? Filled with these huge pinecones, it seems to be the perfect addition.

I decided the bird bath needed to be raised up a bit so this old iron grate fit the bill.

Birch wallpaper added over an old picture was the perfect backdrop, also created by Sue Wolfe. It hangs next to an old English Bus Roll.

Hey!! Herc, move away from the birds nest! Ooops...I think keeping this here may be a problem!

And of course I do have birch branches mingled throughout my home. I love the thicker branches that are mature enough to have the white bark on them.

And then why not put a tree in your house? You could have a whole forest in there! Hahaha. Well then again...maybe not.

Until next time...

Where Have I Been and What the Heck Have I Been Doing?

2011-12-04T23:44:00.000-06:00

So some of you have been wondering where I've been and what the heck I've been up to lately. Actually, something quite crazy overcame me (and I mean crazy)! My husband was complaining (what?...a complaining husband??) That never happens now does it? Ha! Anyways, he was complaining that all I did was go out for lunch (who me?). So I sat down at my computer and applied online for a job....at Target.

Mind you I hadn't applied for a job in over 30 years so I really didn't think I'd get it. And I know, like I really have the time. But guess what? They hired me! Seriously? It must have been my charming personality. Or maybe it was my striking resemblance to that crazy lady in all the Target Christmas commercials (I even had a customer insist it was me...hahahaha It must be my psychotic personality!) But I have to say the extra Christmas money is certainly pretty handy (let alone the discount). Mind you it's only seasonal. But it does seem like they've had me working quite a bit of hours. So my time is definitely limited. And let me tell you, for the fashionista in me, it has been a little bit of a challenge making khaki and red look chic!

But in all the craziness of my life, I've been busy working on a couple projects. Seriously! What is it with me and over extending myself! But these are a couple of pretty darn big and exciting projects! But you'll have to stay tuned. In the meantime, I'm going to try to catch up on some project posts I've been working on. Plus I have to get my Christmas decorating completed! Darn it anyway. Anyone want to help a girl out. LOL!

Again, stay tuned......

Well Another JUNKMARKET Under Glass is Behind Us

2011-09-14T06:00:00.003-05:00

We'll another JUNKMARKET Under Glass sale is behind us. Can't believe it. All the preparation and anticipation. And it's done. It's all so bittersweet. I met so many fun and creative people. And the time spent with them was a great bonding period. These are truly the best group of dealers and vendors out there. We all felt like those in our "quadrant" were the greatest group. And our next sale in March is way too far away!

But on the last day of the sale I was able to sneak away from my booth to capture a few of the moments to remember it by. The pictures aren't great by any means, I was way too tired. But you'll get a hint of the beauty we had here. And it was beautiful. Both customers and vendors alike will attest to that. What a superb venue. The plants seemed to add the icing on the cake. And I also have to recognize the superior staff at Otten Bros. Garden Center and Landscaping. They were above par. Seriously! We would not have been so successful without them. How lucky could we be!

Again, these pictures may not be the best, and may not do the sale justice, but I wanted you to get an inkling of how beautiful it was. But don't take my word for it. Come and see for yourself at the spring sale which will be held March 1-3, 2011. It'll definitely be worth the trip. Also, if I forgot to credit anyone, please don't hesitate to let me know. They all deserve recognition. PS We actually even had someone travel from Japan just for the sale.....seriously. How amazing!

The picture at the very top is the amazing work of Sue Wolfe of Destination Art. Julie Pierce, her partner in crime from the Loft on 2nd, brought her hand painted pots, along with some of her great vintage finds, to the show. They certainly made a great pair.

Okay, how excited was I? I was right across from Heidi Comfort! If you are not familiar with her handmade bags, you need to be!! I LOVE her things! You have to check out her website. I wanted everything in her booth. And not only did I love her bags, but I got to be able to know what an amazing person she is. What a talent!

I felt like I really scored! Yes!

And then kitty-corner from me was Kari Blackwood from Shabby Chick. Like I said, we all thought our little quadrant was the bestest! Before I knew her I loved her things at Haupt Antiek Market. They're lucky to have her!

Once again, Gretchen Schaumann of Mimi-Toria's graced us with her talent and her fabulous jewelry. Sounds like she had an amazing show!

And then there was Annie de Jongh of Grace and Corazon. Her religious inspired jewelry inspired me. My favorite piece (which I own) was a metal given to someone for their faithfulness....aaaahhh. Love that!

And her leather cuff's? To die for!

Stunning!

And then there's another favorite dealer of mine, Jan Berg of Summerspell. I love her industrial look. I'm surprised she had anything left!

This was Cindi Halverson's first visit to JMUG. Her style is impeccable. If you've ever been to her store in Carver, The Nature of It, it is one of my favorites. Her style fits perfect in the greenhouse.

She has amazing style, doesn't she.

Here they are! Cindi is on the front right, her friend Barb is on the left, and Tracie of Histories is in back. Wait until you see Tracie's booth!!!!

Love Julie Broshat of JULZ. Her claim to fame is her belt buckles made from vintage finds. But she also has wonderful metal cuffs, bracelets and necklaces. She's great at whatever she put's her mind to!

And then of course there are two of my dearest friends. Marge Utley of Emma's Nook and Granny on the left. And on the right is Sharon Vreeman of the famous Pfarkel sisters and Junk Re-Defined. I have the best time with them.

Remember I was telling you about Tracie from Histories? We'll this is her booth along with her husband Lee. They have great industrial stuff. And better yet? They are two of the nicest people you'll ever meet.

This is her husband, Lee.

What a great stash of gears they have!

These gals were her for the first time from Iowa. Becky Hiatt and Jenny Boevers, a mother and daughter duo. The name of their business is called Junk Revised and it has a retro flair to it. I wanted this Minnesota sign!

Her I found Sue Whitney of JUNKMARKET, the show organizer, taking a well deserved break!

Some great vintage signs from Judi Shackelford of Rubarb Co.

What a fun display this was!

These gals, Jolie Raimondo of JolieRaimondo.com and Linda Morall of Northwoods Boutique, were taking a break. Sorry, I'm not sure the gal behind her, but she was another fab dealer who joined them..

This light, courtesy of Otten Brothers had my name written all over it. What a fun piece!

This wood box was seen in one Sue Whitney's Country Garden Magazine articles.

Sarah Smith, from Kansas, was my neighbor and I was so glad to be by her. We've become fast friends and she has great stuff! Did I just say great? It was AMAZING! Her WWII French Army bags were a huge hit, along with her reconstructed vintage jewelry and English Bus Rolls. Another LOVE!

This is her friend Meloney's booth from The Seed Box Antiques. She is another one with impeccable style.

This little cabinet of Meloney's was wonderful! You know me....I love industrial!

I was able to snap a picture of Sarah Smith (left) and Kari Blackwood (right) taking a break. Love these gals!

And how could I forget Shayne Barsness of Style Minneapolis. She has great Style! Fab is the word!

And l saved the bestest for last. Judy Hill from Texas was here! Seriously! The Judy Hill! How did we rate? Thanks Judy for making the long track from Texas. We loved having you!

How could you not want to spend time in this beautiful booth. Judy has the touch!

Here's a picture of Judy on the left with Laurel Putnam of Chipping with Charm on the right.

Like I said, my pictures aren't the best, but I hope I was able to give you an feel of how amazing the space, product and people were. It was truly the best of the best!

My Booth at JUNKMARKET Under Glass!

2011-09-06T22:48:00.000-05:00

After a long day, I thought I'd throw out some pictures of my booth. I like how it turned out. All it needs is some plants, and they'll come tomorrow. But I'm tired, so here's the pics! Short and sweet :-) To see the pictures larger, just click on them.

Hope to see you this week! For times and info, go to junkmarketstyleevent.com.

Displaying Memories

2011-08-30T06:00:00.002-05:00

There's something about old family pictures. They are something I look on with great fondness. To be able to see the heritage from which I've come, to see my parents as children, or my grand parents as young adults. It just gives me so much appreciation of where I've come. And I think those things are so important. So when I come upon something that can display those prize possessions, I'm all over it. I only hope the next generation can look from the past to help them in their journey to the future.

This piece was originally used to hold files folders, possibly in a dental or doctors office.

I wasn't very fond of the brown paint, so I simply sanded it off. It hadn't been put on their very thick, so it took very little work to remove it. I did make sure I protected myself with gloves and a mask in case the paint was lead base.

The piece needed some embellishments. These European house numbers would suffice.

Being both the pieces were metal, all I needed was some magnets to attach this to the file holder.

This brooch turned into a magnet, also adds some additional interest.

And then I need my family pictures. This is my Dad back in the '60s when he worked in radio. A very special photo.

Or how cute is this! Probably taken in the late '30s or early '40s.

I love how it all came together.

But then again, if I want to change it up, it works great for notes, business cards and other things I may need handy.

To see more of my JUNKMARKET projects, click on the link on the side of my blog.

I've also linked up to my friend Amy of Whisperwood Cottage's Linky Party "Authentic Style". How better to show my style then to show you some of my favorite things! Hop on over there and check it out!

Good Friends, Good Times and Good Junk...My Weekend in Oronoco!

2011-08-25T06:00:00.001-05:00

I just had the most amazing weekend in Oronoco at Gold Rush Days! If you're unfamiliar with Gold Rush Days, it's an event that the whole town of Oronoco gets in on. They open up all the public spaces, along with private yards, and it's one heck of a sale! This year, I was able to tag along my friend Sue Whitney for a photo shoot she was doing on the event for Country Gardens Magazine. I've tagged along before on photo shoots, and it's such a thrill for me. This time unfortunately I seem to have forgotten my camera, so guess what? No pictures! My bad. I guess you'll just have to purchase the magazine next summer to see their pictures. Ooops!

So here's a run down of what was going on.

We drove down on Thursday evening and were able to set up our JUNKMARKET Style booth....oops. No pictures for this! You'll have to trust me. It was stunning! We did run into a bit of a pickle. Sue and I didn't know how to put up the "easy up" tent. What can you expect from a couple of blonds! Thanks to Jeff Marthaler from Dona Rose Antiques for his help in this venture. The Pfarkel Sisters came to help after a distressed call from me (they've helped us put up a tent in the past when we were having difficulties), but they got there too late. No sweat...they did however help finish getting the booth put together. Thanks, gals!

The famous Pfarkel Sisters from St. Charles, Minnesota, Sharon, Diane and Janelle!

The next day we were up early to get ready for the day. If you know me at all, being up early is no simple feat. Mornings and I don't go together so well. But this was for a worthy cause. So after a few supply runs, we arrived in Oronoco around 9:30 ready to start an exciting day!

The morning was spent greeting people and sharing about JUNKMARKET and JUNKMARKET Under Glass. Because the booth looked so spectacular (thanks to Sue's great style), we drew in a lot of people. It was fun meeting new and old fans of JUNKMARKET! Thanks for all who stopped by!

In the afternoon, Sue spent the day with the photogs, Greg and Chris, photographing all the fun sites of the sale. Me? I was out with the Pfarkels, looking for some great finds....Oronoco is the bestest!

Here's a picture of us from last summer's photo shot. Chris is on the left, Greg's on the right. What a great couple of guys. They are fab!

At the end of the day, I spent it with the Pfarkels, Marge (an adopted Pfarkel sister), Sue, Greg and Chris at the Pfarkels campsite with good food, good wine and good friends. Perfect way to end the day. Aaaah....

Tammy asked in the last post what I purchased in Oronoco. Here are a few pics, Tammy :-)

This metal desk was a steal. I LOVE vintage metal pieces...specially if they're medical.

Some great spindles. I wish I would have bought more. There must have been fifty of them, or more. I went back later in the day and they were all gone. Darn!

I've always loved these (don't ask me what they are). This one was extra special...it's more tall and narrow then most of them I've seen. Can't you see it with a candle behind it?

I picked up a couple of these vintage metal coolers. I have a few more at home. Love!

Know what this is? A table fan which is literally a table. Another piece I love! The color is fabulous!

It came from Northwestern Hospital (where ever that is). That makes it even cooler!

Many of these items will be fore sale at JUNKMARKET Under Glass....hope to see you there!

A Can't Miss Event....JUNKMARKET Under Glass "Fall Edition"!

2011-08-17T06:00:00.016-05:00

I've been meaning to get this out to you...it's coming up quickly! It's our first ever JUNKMARKET Under Glass "Fall Edition" and it's just around the corner! The spring one was so much fun, and we had such a great response, we just had to do it all over again!

I've been gathering up things throughout the summer and seem to be coming up with a couple of themes. Most recently I ventured out a couple of fellow junkers, Amy of Whisperwood Cottage and Jan Berg of Summerspell, to a local flea market where I found some great vintage pieces. See if you can pick out what themes where developing here. I've got a few pictures of some items I've found and cleaned up, but I have lots more to get ready! I'm such a procrastinator (can ya tell?).

I'm really hoping to meet a lot of fellow bloggers/junkers/JUNKMARKET-eers at this event. So please, please, please be sure to stop by and introduce yourself. I may not be great with names, but I'm certainly hoping to be able to connect with a lot of you. Please let me know your thoughts on here, too. I love hearing from you!

I found this great library book shelf.

It's just too cool for school....literally!

This pale blue metal mail sorter would be amazing used as wine storage. Wowzer...it sure could hold a lot of wine!

This is a post office scale.

Can you see a theme here?

But then again, I have another "blue" cubby! I might have another theme developing. Hmmmm....

Or maybe it's a scale theme I have going on? You know how I love scales!

And this one gives you the "exact weight"!

This ladder is all hand made...which makes it even more special!

What a find this vintage ballot box is. I just might have to keep it!

This window washer swing has some of it's original "blue" paint. It's gonna be the center feature of my booth.

This old "blue" heater is just a shell, but it still has that "cool" factor and contributes to one of my themes.

I think this piece is extra special. It may not get to the sale either.

Old wicker has really been speaking to me lately. Am I the only one?

I also found a boat load of these tin pieces...love! Now all I have to do is figure out what to do with them!

And after a good day of junking where do I go with my friend Amy...

...and my friend Jan?

No better place than Sonic! The perfect end to a perfect day of junking!

Here's the rest of the details...again, please come and say hi!

These are a Few of My Favorite Things!

2011-08-02T06:30:00.003-05:00

"Rain drops and Roses and Whiskers on Kittens" might make Julie Andrews feel better when she's down, but for me? It's scales and cloches, along with some other great vintage finds! So "when the dog bites, when the bee stings, when I'm feeling sad, I simply rememeber my favorite things and then I don't feel so bad!" Who really needs Prozac? All I need is some really great junk!

I have always had a love for scales, but this one is particularly beautiful. It was the inspiration piece for my happy place.

Ooooh, what is it about a worn piece of ironstone? This one is particularly special holding some of my favorite flowers from my garden, Annabelle Hydrangias.

In the basket of the scale holds a few of my scale weights. Though they are a little rusty, they make me happy!

I love the wear on these pieces. Two are from an old pillar and one, a piece from a wooden pulley. Again, LOVE!

Now who wouldn't feel better looking at a vintage clock under a cloche?

And this piece? Not actually a cloche, but the globe from an old hanging light fixture. Perfection!

Now doesn't that make you happy?

And who doesn't love rust? This piece, though not perfect, is beautiful.

The piece that holds this "happy" vignette was actually a tithes box from a church. Notice the slot to put your tithes in?

Now doesn't it all together just make you go, "Aaaah"?

Mudd Lake Sale Pictures!

2011-07-29T13:34:00.001-05:00

Two posts in a little over a week! Can you believe it? I've got a few pictures from our booth at Mudd Lake. It was such a fun sale, and even though the weather didn't always cooperate, it was very successful. Glad to meet so many fun and new people, too!

I had the fortune of being in the "horse barn", along with Bob Kratch from Mudd Lake, Otten Bros. and Sue Whitney JUNKMARKET. So when the storms came, we didn't get any of the wind and rain. And on those hot days, we had a cool cement floor and ceiling fans. Now how do I rate? Haha! Thanks to Sue for letting me help her with all her creative displays. I love working along side such genius! So without further ado.....

Does this look like a horse barn to you? We had three creative table displays to give you oodles of ideas.

Can you give me an "E"?!!

Only "Junk" in this trunk is the good kind (unless maybe we're referring to this manekins backside)....lol!

Loved the mixture of the white chippy pieces with industrial and natural wood. My favorite look lately!

Now this is what I call a flower bed!

My absolutely favorite room! Love how organic it is....you had to see this in person!

We had lots of outdoor vendors, too!

Can't remember if this was taken before or after the storm? Looks like everthing is in place here.

Photo Credit: Mudd Lake

And then we had Nick. His beans were to "die for", along with all the other good food he made. Nummmmmm!

Photo Credit: Mudd Lake

Look good to you?

photo credit: Mudd Lake

Looks like someone shopped 'til she dropped!

Thanks to all who worked tiredlessly on this sale to make it what it was! Also thanks to Mudd Lake for putting this on.

Miss Me Yet?

2011-07-21T00:03:00.000-05:00

Thought I might have to remind you what I look like. I'm sure you must have forgotten...I mean it has been a while. Well actually it's been over a month! Have you wondered where I've been? Well I've been taking a slight break from blogging to work on a lot of fun new adventures (plus have some quality summer family time). It's been a fun summer and I've got some very exciting happening's on the horizon.

And what kind of adventures, you may ask? Well first off, I've be I've been having some "huge" fun with my friend Sue Whitney of JUNKMARKET. We've joined forces with Bob Kratch of Mudd Lake and have been busy transforming his horse barn, yes a real horse barn, into a shopping Junk Mecca! And it hasn't been easy. This Minnesota summer has been brutal! With high's in the 90's, we're putting in a lot of blood, sweat and tears. But it's gonna be worth it! It's looking pretty darn amazing! Sue's one extremely talented lady, and am so thrilled to be able to "assist" her in this venture. I just need to get out there and get some pictures taken!

So here's the details:

Mudd Lake Presents:

"Junk in the Trunk" Art, Antique, & Junk Flea Market!

Join us at Mudd Lake Farm, July 22nd-24th from 9am to 6pm.
Mudd Lake is located at 10685 County Road 24, Watertown, MN 55388

"Shop the fields with numerous Art & Antique dealers as they abound throughout the apple orchard. This event is JUNK MARKET STYLE APPROVED!"

To see more on this fun event, go to Sue's post "Big To Do at Mudd Lake Furniture Company" on the JUNKMARKET Style website. And for directions go to Bob's website at muddlake.com. Hope to see you there!

PS Stay tuned to more upcoming events!

Thank you!! Thank you!!!

2011-06-15T23:49:00.000-05:00

I had to take the time to give a big "thank you" to all the response I received from my last post, both publically and privately. I am overwhelmed and my heart is full. Your comments have been amazing and so supportive. And rest assured, I will continue to blog and share. I've got lots coming up, and I know the future looks bright. This blogging community is amazing...to say the least.

Again, I'm so glad to have shared my heart with you. You're the best!

Are Pictures Free for the Taking?

2011-05-26T01:33:00.004-05:00

I guess I've got a bone to pick with someone. I know the laws regarding the internet can be very vague, but I'm getting really tired of people taking my pictures and posting them on their website (or in a recent case in their newsletter) and using them for their own monetary gain. I can't tell you how many times this has happened to me. And I'm sure there are some I don't even know about. Maybe I should be flattered by it. But I only seem to find out about it in a round about way. And I've only rarely been contacted for prior authorization.

I work really hard to produce the projects I do, let alone edit the pictures so I can bring them to you. I really make no money in doing this. My purpose for doing it is to inspire you and even be able to recreate it for yourself. And I have no problem with that. I think we all love to share ideas.

But my question to you is this. How do you feel about using other's pictures or other's using yours? I know some websites are totally made up of other's pictures, and none of them their own. A lot of times they're from major magazines and store catalogs. But this has really discouraged me from posting at all. I think I'd feel a little different if I had been contacted in the first place. If you know me, I'm really very giving. But finding out after the fact just makes me plain old mad.

I do think this is a good discussion to have. I'd really love to hear your thoughts on the matter. Am I wrong? Please don't feel bad of me to bring this up. I really want to know. What are your thoughts? My blog from the get go has tried to be totally original, and positive. I want it to be, well....all me. Not anyone else. I want it to be a good reflection of me and my style.

So please, don't hesitate to comnent. I'd love to know your thoughts on the subject, good and bad.

PS The picture used in this post is free clip art.

"I've Been Framed!"

2011-05-24T06:00:00.031-05:00

Did you miss me? I've been having a bit of over load load lately and thus I've neglected my blog. My bad. I'll try to do better, but sometimes you just have to let some things go for awhile. We've been busy, too. With a Hockey Trip to Boston for my daughter, the Easter Holiday, Occasional Sales I'm involved in, another speaking engagement, etc., I've been extremely occupied. But here I am, back on the bike again and getting into the swing of things. I've got some new ventures I'm stepping into and I'll let you know more about that when they take more shape.

But in the meantime, here's one of my newer vignettes in my home. I purchased this amazing frame with the great patina a few years back. I didn't want to detract from it's coolness by adding a picture to it so I did something different.

I had purchased a bunch of these European house numbers from a wholesaler that was going out of business. I loved the rusty patina on them and I thought they'd worked well inside the frame.

There you have it. To me it's much more interesting than a silly old picture.

I hung the two in a little alcove I have in my entryway. I think everything seemed to come together quite nicely, if I do say so myself.

I found these children's boots at a favorite local occasional sale and I think they work perfectly in the vignette. Using them as bookends is a little out of the box, but I like that!

And how about the nice little Texas star on them?!

I LOVE vintage books! I have quite a few of them. Funny thing is, I'm the farthest thing from a book worm. These books have some fun titles, Child Rhymes, 20,000 Leagues Under the Sea, Songs for the School and Longfellow's Evangeline.

This iron urn holds a branch I picked up on a sisters' weekend in the woods. It holds a branch I literally stole from Mr. Beaver. I went and got it right off the top of his dam (and that's probably what he was sayin'). Ooops. My bad. But it was soooo cool. Couldn't help myself.

Rocks hold the branch in place...and the moss adds to the coolness of it.

The branch slightly covers the frame, but I kind of like that.

And the final piece to the vignette puzzle, this chippy grate. I added the inside gear piece to it as I didn't think it looked quite complete without it. Sometimes the best things just happen by chance.

Again, another piece with amazing patina. It's perfecto mundo! And if you pick up the latest issue of "Country Garden" Magazine, you'll see some more of my grates collection, among some other of my vintage pieces, in the JUNKMARKET Garden Party Ideas section. I was honored to be a part of the shoot and provide some of the pieces for it! Unfortunately, any pictures with me in them must have hit the editing room floor. Oh well. But Sue did an amazing job in the styling so it's definitely worth picking up!

Junking from J to K, and Everything In Between!

2011-05-09T23:16:00.045-05:00

I have my second speaking gig! Seriously! And I have to say, I'm quite excited. The first one, a few months ago, was at a local thrift store. And I guess it went so well, I was asked to do it again. This time at The Loft on 2nd in Anoka, MN. So if you're not busy on Thursday, May 12, from 6-7 pm, I'd love you to come on down and join me! And it's all free!

What will I be taking about? Why "Junk" of course. My topic, "Junking from J to K and Everything In Between" will hopefully inspire and entertain you with some of my experiences of taking what some would call "junk", and transforming them into amazing decorating accents. You'll also be able to spend time with other fellow "Junkers", and learn how you too can save money and be "green" at the same time.

The Loft on 2nd is located at 2005 2nd Ave, Anoka, Minnesota. Their phone number is 763.208-0589. For additional info head on over to their website at http://www.thelofton2nd.blogspot.com/. I'd be thrilled to have you join us!

Spring Time in Minnesota

2011-04-20T23:25:00.000-05:00

Someone's playing a very mean trick on us here in Minnesota. Seriously. It's suppose to be Spring! It is April 20 for goodness sake! But we all awoke to a winter wonderland this morning. And it may be gorgeous, but so is green grass and garden flowers. I mean really? I am so ready for Spring to come....please? But in the meantime, here I am taking pictures of the snow. Hopefully these will be the very last pictures we'll see of snow for this year. And maybe the next outdoor pictures I take will be of my garden. Here's to summer!!

Until next time,

A Desk Reorganization ala Junk Style!

2011-04-01T17:03:00.001-05:00

I'm not one to be very organized to say the least. And my home desk is often a place for disarray. But with a little help from some good old vintage junk, I'm hoping to solve this problem.....

This is the first piece that's gonna help me do that. Can someone tell me what it is? No matter, it's just what I need. Looks like my cat is curious again on what I'm doing. Either that or she just likes being in my pictures :-)

How's this for a pencil/pen holder?

It use to hold drill bits.

Next on the list? Something for note paper. I think it was originally used for a calendar. But we junkers always like to use things for different purposes, now don't we.

Can't take credit for this repurpose idea, but it'll give my desk a little embellishment. The door knob piece is metal so with a magnet and a metal tag made by my friend and fellow JMS contributor Sue Wolfe, it'll add a little extra pizzazz.

A vintage date calendar and a slate board from Pottery Barn will help keep me on track...hopefully!

And because the piece is metal, it will be another place to hold memos and business cards.

With this piece, I'll always be able to find note paper....it won't be walking off!

Another little embellishment. The key fob was purchased at one of the JUNKMARKET sales.

There you have it. All neat and tidy...and all in one place.

On the other side of the desk, beekers with ivy cuttings are displayed with some red gears all stacked up and holding a wire flower. A vintage dresser mirror serves as a tray.

Now if my desk could always be this neat!

To see more of my JUNKMARKET projects, click on the link on the side of my blog.

It's a Dilly of a Sign!

2011-03-26T12:27:00.010-05:00

I found this sign at the last JUNKMARKET Style Event, Flea Market Under Glass. Because there is no pre-selling allowed (we have to save the best for the customers), I had to book it over to the Junk Devotions/Queens of Chic's booth shortly after the doors opened. Sorry, Richard. I guess I just move faster than you :-) The only problem with the sign it? It was too long for the wall it was intended for. Oops....but sometimes decorating accidents work out for the better!

Don't you love this sign! It was "almost" perfect for my wall. The only problem? It was a bit too long.

The wall it was intended for really needed some "oomph" to it.

My solution for it? Allow the sign to hang over one edge, and then add something fun to the end of it.

This "vintage" rope would be usefully in hanging the piece.

And this cool old wheel? It'll be a fun addition!

It doesn't hang over too much, just enough!

A cute vintage green industrial table with a black and white scale complete the vignette. Though this wall was a work in the making, I like how it all came together!

To see more of my JUNKMARKET projects, click on the link on the side of my blog.

Thanks to Amy of Whisperwood for sponsoring this fun chalkboard linky party!