Funky Junk from the Country

Hearts & more Hearts

2023-01-19T17:30:00.000-08:00

Creating hearts…

2019-12-15T16:31:00.000-08:00

Vintage Groves 116

Perrysburg, Ohio

Funky Junk at LouisiAvenue Antiques

2017-08-22T16:49:00.001-07:00

LouisiAvenue Antiques in Perrysburg, Ohio.

I'm back! Where has summer gone. The nights are going to start to get cool and the leaves will change! Antiquers love this time of year, outdoor auctions, Flea markets and vintage fairs galore. Time for antique dealers to stock their spaces with awesome finds and funky junk. Always funky junk in my case...

Perrysburg, Ohio is a very quaint town in Northwest Ohio. A beautiful downtown with potted flowers and benches, outdoor restaurants on the sidewalks and an amazing view of the river. That's where LouisiAvenue Antiques is located in an old three story brick building with a turquoise antique door. You are able to see crystal chandeliers hanging in the front window with beautiful white distressed furniture ready to go home with you.

The shop is split seemlessly into sections for each dealer. It's amazing how we each have our own style, yet, everything flows together so beautifully.

My obsession with suitcases will not go away. I can't get enough of them, small, tall, round or square. I adore them all.

Everyone has a blast changing out their dress forms! I recently changed out mine, switching out her pink tablecloth skirt for a white one, adding a vintage green glass brooch with antique lace. The antique Underwood typewriter works. Hopefully someone will purchase it to keep it in it's original condition. So many of these typewriters are being salvaged for the keys. They are used for jewelry and are very pretty pieces.

The vintage inspired {reproduction} card catalog is a very cool piece. Mr. Funky Junk found several of them and they have all sold very quickly. More suitcases, my suitcase obsession continues.

The antique trunk was purchased at an auction and still has several travel tickets on it from the original owner. Just imagine all the trips it has seen. These pieces make an awesome coffee table. I have one in our living room with a piece of glass on top and we love it.

Patriotic decor is a favorite of mine and who doesn't adore wicker? I picked up a stack of vintage decor books from another auction and live going through them. I have them priced very reseasonable so someone else can enjoy them as much as I do.

Thank you for taking this tour of my space at LouisiAvenue Antiques in Perrysburg, Ohio. Hope you have the opportunity to stop in and browse all the gorgeous furnishings on hand.

Love, peace & funky junk,

geniece

You can find me on:

Facebook: http://facebook.com/Funkyjunkfromthecountry

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Website:

www.funkyjunkfromthecountry.com

Pinterest: @funkyjunkcntry

Thank you!

Good Morning from the Country

2017-05-21T07:57:00.001-07:00

Good morning from the Country. I just realized I haven't posted in several months. Wow, where has the time gone? There isn't enough time in the day, week, month or year to accomplish everything I want to do!

So what have I been up to? Staying busy, painting, junking, painting... The weather is starting to get nice and I am starting to plant flowers. My vintage scale is always ready for a plant. I decided to go with a Boston fern this year from a local greenhouse {always buy local}. The impatients don't make it thru the summer heat on the front porch.

We have several vintage bikes on our property, each has a bicycle basket so I can plant flowers in them. Everyone who goes by our home knows our property, by the bikes with the flowers in the baskets! I can't pass up an old bike, especially with a basket.

I will be buying the liners and the wave petunias will be going in. See why I can't resist?

All of this flower planning has made me thirsty. Time for tea and the studio is calling my name. Painting and French typography to finish.

Thank you all so much for spending time with me in the Country.

Peace, love & Junk,

geniece

You can find me on:

Facebook: http://facebook.com/Funkyjunkfromthecountry

Instagram: Funkyjunkfromthecountry

Website:

www.funkyjunkfromthecountry.com

Pinterest: @funkyjunkcntry

Thank you!

A February Refresh

2017-02-21T02:35:00.001-08:00

Hello February,

So lovely to see you each year, February. We are in the midst of winter in the Midwest and thinking of spring. What to do on a day in February when its sixty-seven degrees outside?

A refresh at your antique space. I know what you're thinking...I spent the last two beautiful days outside painting and waxing, so we needed to drop off all of our hard work.

A vintage fireplace mantel, antique andirons, logs and a vintage fireplace screen.

I picked up several vintage bone Chiba tea cops and saucers at an auction. They look lovely in this old wall shelf turned on its side and painted antique white.

Starting to think spring and adding some colorful touches. I custom mixed the blue milk paint and call it bell bottom blue!

As with any antique space, it is always evolving and changing as items are bought and sold!

Thanks for stopping by today! Have a wonderful spring season!

Peace, love & Junk,

Geniece

You can find me on:

Facebook: http://facebook.com/Funkyjunkfromthecountry

Instagram: Funkyjunkfromthecountry

Website:

www.funkyjunkfromthecountry.com

Pinterest: @funkyjunkcntry

Thank you!

A Year in Painted Pieces

2016-12-20T03:04:00.001-08:00

As each year comes to a close, It's always fun to look back on all the painted pieces that have been created. Some of my favorites from 2016 with French typography graphics from The Graphics Fairy website, www.thegraphicsfairy.com.

My French typography pieces come in all colors, shapes and sizes.

A vintage commode painted in milk paint, French typography hand drawn with an oil Sharpie and finished in Ebony wax with a flat polyurethane.

French typography with a white oil Sharpie stands out on this piece painted in Queenstown Gray and waxed with an ebony wax.

My all time favorite French typography graphic from The Graphics Fairy is this Cafe & Legumes graphic on a large dresser painted with an antique white milk paint and waxed in an ebony wax.

French typography dresses up this small commode painted in antique white milk painted with an ebony wax.

This pretty little table received the bundle bee graphics.

Old tattered suitcases are a perfect backdrop for French typography!

This vintage music cabinet was painted in a patina green milk paint, French typography with an oil Sharpie and completed with an ebony wax. The graphics always take center stage on this color!

Thank you for taking a stroll down memory lane and some of my 2016 favorite French typography pieces.

Peace, love & junk!

geniece

You can find me on:

Facebook: http://facebook.com/Funkyjunkfromthecountry

Instagram: Funkyjunkfromthecountry

Website:

www.funkyjunkfromthecountry.com

Pinterest: @funkyjunkcntry

Thank you!

Merry Christmas from the Country

2016-12-18T13:59:00.001-08:00

Merry Christmas all. Hope this day finds you warm and cozy with family and friends!

The Christmas tree in the shack. We have solar power out there, so I walk out to turn it on for the holidays.

The daytime view from inside the front door.

Yes, we have snow! No worries, the shack has an antique kereosene heater to keep us warm.

The front porch is always decked in holiday cheer.

We have a mailbox, yet never receive any mail.

An old iron baby crib has been transformed into a bed, complete with a flour sack mattress.

Looking at the tree from the front porch. I always fill everything up with pines from our property.

Looking out the back window, Santa watches over the shack.

A view of the shack from our deck. The pond is not completely frozen, yet the snow lays on top.

The junk truck sits proudly in front of the barn covered in snow this time of year!

Merry Christmas & Happy New Year from Funky Junk from the Country!

Looking forward to 2017 and all it brings.

Peace, love & junk,

geniece

You can find me on:

Facebook: http://facebook.com/Funkyjunkfromthecountry

Instagram: Funkyjunkfromthecountry

Website:

www.funkyjunkfromthecountry.com

Pinterest: @funkyjunkcntry

Thank you!

A Vintage Christmas in the Country

2016-10-15T09:17:00.001-07:00

A Vintage Christmas here in the Country is getting underway. It has been really warm here in Northwest Ohio this fall, with temperatures in the 70's. So we have been busy picking up leaves and storing stuff in the barn for winter. Yet, we are in full Christmas Mose here at Funky Junk from the Country.

So grab a cup of coffee and enjoy all of the Christmas creations!

The fun vintage porcelain tubs were purchased from a friend, knowing they would make the perfect place to hold a Christmas tree. Both trees are in vintage containers, one in an old tin and the other in an old oatmeal container. The graphics on the front are amazing and I added a red ribbon. Vintage tablecloths are in the tubs, while old towels adorn the sides.

Check out the graphics on the old oatmeal container, yes they are amazing. I did have to add a cardboard ribbon roll to the bottom to add some height. Tiny vintage glass ornaments, along with new beading {{that looks old}}, mercury glass star ornaments and tiny handmade candy canes all adorn the tree. Little LED lights and a bottle brush star finish off the tree.

You can always find sleds in our barn ready for the holiday season in our barn. We purchase them all year long, yes, even when it's ninety {{90*}} degrees outside, we are searching for them. I also hunt for mittens and vintage items to adorn them, adding a ribbon and they are complete.

My oil can ornaments are always a favorite for me! I adore making them and love the industrial vintage feel.

This antique pie safe from 1890 is full of vintage goodies. I purchased the antique sleigh bells last year at an antique shop in Sandusky, Ohio, the sound is fabulous. You can just see the sleigh gliding over the snow and feel the wind when they jingle.

Hope you enjoyed this little tour of what we have been up to here in the Country. Stay tuned for the next post on the Shabby Shack decked out for Christmas.

Enjoy your Thanksgiving with family, friends & fur babies.

Peace, love & junk!

geniece

You can find me on:

Facebook: http://facebook.com/Funkyjunkfromthecountry

Instagram: Funkyjunkfromthecountry

Website:

www.funkyjunkfromthecountry.com

Pinterest: @funkyjunkcntry

Thank you!

This Thanksgiving I am Thankful For...

2016-10-15T09:16:00.001-07:00

It's Thanksgiving week and my thoughts turn to, what am I thankful for? This year has been interesting. I never dreamed that this year would bring us a beautiful baby girl, Eloise Reh was born in mid October. She was a couple of weeks early, yet happy & healthy.

I am beyond thankful for this beautiful little bundle of joy!

She is already growing and changing every time I see her.

I am truly blessed this year and for many, many years to come!

Happy Thanksgiving from my family to yours...

Peace, love & junk!

geniece

You can find me on:

Facebook: http://facebook.com/Funkyjunkfromthecountry

Instagram: Funkyjunkfromthecountry

Website:

www.funkyjunkfromthecountry.com

Pinterest: @funkyjunkcntry

Thank you!

Velvet Ribbon Bookmarks

2016-10-10T20:48:00.002-07:00

Have you ever seen a pic on the internet and knew you could make it too. Yes, I have. After adoring the pics of the Velvet Ribbon Bookmarks with vintage jewelry, I knew I had to make them. A quick trip to Michael's and Jo Ann Fabrics for Velvet Ribbon and end clasps, was all I needed. I have been collecting vintage jewelry for several different projects for awhile, so I knew that was covered.

I purchased the Velvet Ribbon at Hobby Lobby, choosing a light blue and a very pretty fuscia.

The end clasps and jump rings were purchased at Jo Ann Fabrics.

I have picked up vintage jewelry at flea markets, auctions, garage sales and friends. A great way to use family jewelry that will last forever. Pass it on to someone, so much fun!

You will need some small tools and a pair of scissors. This vintage project took me an hour to complete four {4} Bookmarks. This was fun and I will be making more vintage Bookmarks as Christmas gifts. Happy vintage repurposing everyone!

Peace, love & junk!

geniece

You can find me on:

Facebook: http://facebook.com/Funkyjunkfromthecountry

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Website:

www.funkyjunkfromthecountry.com

Pinterest: @funkyjunkcntry

Thank you!

The leaves will turn soon...

2016-09-27T09:25:00.001-07:00

Yes, the leaves will be turning to that beautiful yellow, orange and brown. Our days and nights are finally starting to get a little cooler. After a summer of high temps and very high humidity we are welcoming cooler days and nights!

It is a crisp 60 degrees this morning as I walk our property this morning with Gracie & Zoe {border collie & designer mutt}. The fountain is still in the pond and will be until around November. See the rainbow in the fountain, so beautiful. The sun is shining!

Our flowers on the decks and porches are still blooming. They will soon be surrounded by leaves and more leaves. Yet we will enjoy for as long as we can.

We will be able to see past the barn in a few months as we spend endless hours picking up the leaves. We dump them in our woods to decompose and fill in our low spots. Gracie and Zoe are so excited to run out in the yard. After our walk they will take a long nap! Trying to keep them out of the pond is a challenge this time of year, as the water is warm and the air cool.

The funky junk truck stands tall next to the barn all year long. Over the years the bright red Rustoleum finish has faded and has become the perfect barn red patina!

I picked this fountain up at an auction this summer and I think it looks fabulous on the barn. Our walk included a little trip out to the Shabby Shed. The hanging flowers still look gorgeous. I can not explain how peaceful it is out here. It is so quiet, only the wind blowing and the leaves wrestling in the wind. The perfect spot to decompress after a long day.

The mail box on the Shabby Shed is still empty, yet waits patiently for a letter. Over the years I have collected several Carruth pieces that adorn the shed.

We live not far from the Carruth Studio and I have collected quite a few of them over the years. They are so versatile to decorate with, inside or out!

The windows are still open to let in the fresh autumn air.

Just a little view from the front porch of the Shabby Shed.

There is a hammock to relax on just past the shack.

I spent this past Sunday getting the front garden ready for fall. Gracie & Zoe assisted of course, it's ruff being a dog in the country. They are up to the task!

Happy fall everyone. I hope you have enjoyed our walk in the country this autumn morning!

Peace, love & junk!

geniece

You can find me on:

Facebook: http://facebook.com/Funkyjunkfromthecountry

Instagram: Funkyjunkfromthecountry

Website:

www.funkyjunkfromthecountry.com

Pinterest: @funkyjunkcntry

Thank you!

My Daughters Baby Shower

2016-09-05T18:08:00.001-07:00

My daughter, Candice at her baby shower with her friends from the salon.

Yes, that beautiful lady with the baby bump is my daughter and she is due on October 31st, 2016. We are hoping for a little Halloween pumpkin!

Candice wanted to have the baby shower at our home, small, intimate and simple. She is so easy going and just wanted to share memories with family and friends!

In keeping with her elegant and simple shower I decided to have it on our deck. With about 20 guests RSVP'd it would be perfect. The weather was wonderful, 75 degrees, sun, no wind and no pests.

I set up all the tables with thos plastic covers in a light pink, lavender and turquoise, all colors in the new baby nursery. Then topped with vintage lace table clothes, they were gorgeous! Blue ball jars filled with flower bouquets from the grocery store. Yes all the flowers were marked down to $4.00 a bouquet and still looked stunning. I split the bouquets into two to fit in the blue Ball jars. I had saved several different sizes of Candice's baby shoes to add a little sparkle and memory to her day. Simple, elegant and beautiful.

I also made a Pom Pom garland that will hang in the nursery too as an additional sparkle to the long table.

The setting was perfect overlooking our big red barn.

The upper deck had the simple plastic covers in nursery colors.

With a gift table and chair that would soon become packed with baby sweetness! I found an old red, metal Radio Flyer wagon {{Right corner of the pic}} for Candice & Patrick to take the baby for a stroll.

A half chocolate, half white cake with pretty pastel Flores was made by a local bakery and delicous.

A rag garland and some paper balls finished out the decorations.

Quite a few of the flower jars went home with guests. Yet some went home with Candice and several stayed right here at home!

The candy on the second plate was a hit!

Flowers always make you happy. Well for now, we are waiting until October for that sweet baby girl to arrive. Mean while Candice is helping with my Milk Paint 101 classes and everyone adores her!!

That baby bump is so sweet!

I will keep you updated, as we are on baby watch going forward!

Peace, love & junk!

geniece

You can find me on:

Facebook: http://facebook.com/Funkyjunkfromthecountry

Instagram: Funkyjunkfromthecountry

Website:

www.funkyjunkfromthecountry.com

Pinterest: @funkyjunkcntry

Geniece & Jim

Funky Junk from the Country Barn Sale & Vintage Market 2016

2016-09-05T17:28:00.001-07:00

The Funky Junk from the Country barn was ready to go at 9:00 a.m. On July 23, 2016.

Remember that red barn that stands in our yard so eloquently, yes it was decked out in shabby loveliness!

Oh and our yard, full, full, full! This was just a small part of what we had, my hubby had the trailer packed and the Junk Truck box truck was full too.

The evening before, it looked so peaceful under the evening sky. Don't let it fool you, it was 96 degrees out with the highest humidity in two years, left us with a heat index of 105* degrees. When you set a date ten months in advance, who knew? I kept telling myself, better than pouring rain!

We hard iron yard art from Tonya Haynes at Juntique on Sofia Street. The yard was full of cool creatures holding flower pots!

While inside the barn, Julie & Danny from Great Finds Maumee, LLC were all set up. Amazing vintage finds along with dress forms, bakers racks and so much more.

Tonya from Vintiques and Sophia Street was also here with lots of vintage pieces. She also had the fabulous green fan that kept her cool in the +100 degree heat!

Found on Brighton Street was set up by the pond with some beautiful artwork, quilts and vintage picnic baskets!

Sunny Mead Alpacas from Whitehouse, Ohio were here also and everyone loved them. They also brought their cart full of very cool items for sale!

Our old Pepsi Cola matchine had a workout that day keeping the water and pop cold. It was ice cold and several customers wanted to buy it. Not for sale though.

There was plenty of vintage finds in the barn.

The Shabby Shack was hit with everyone who walked out to check it out!

Can't wait until next year! Well worth the work and plenty of new ideas to come!

Peace, love & junk!

geniece

You can find me on:

Facebook: http://facebook.com/Funkyjunkfromthecountry

Instagram: Funkyjunkfromthecountry

Website:

www.funkyjunkfromthecountry.com

Pinterest: @funkyjunkcntry

Geniece & Jim

2016 I Can't Believe it's June Already!

2016-06-04T07:33:00.001-07:00

Wow, it's June already. Can you believe it? Lots going on here at Funky Junk from the Country!

Take a look at the pieces of 2016 so far...

Yes, I couldn't resist creating another ballerina dresser. It was so much fun and this is a challenging design to create!

This is the full finished piece!

I had to create with a little color. This is General Finishes Patina Green Milk Paint with an ebony wax. This color is stunning!

This one was fun too! A first time for this graphic and I adore it. This pic was before the Ebony wax finishing touch.

French typography is not only for furniture. I picked this vintage suitcase up at an auction. I can't resist and my hubby gets annoyed! It was not in top top shape, yet it was perfect to draw on with a white oil Sharpie. If it doesn't move, it's fair game to draw on!

This is an old glove box from a vintage dresser. Mr. Funky Junk added a bottom to the box and it was perfect for graphics. I am obsessed with vintage dress forms, so hence, the design.

This vintage graphic is amazing. So nice to create a piece with nostalgia from Toledo, Ohio. This old door was just waiting for graphics to brighten it's future!

Just a fun sign to pass the time.

This piece was a labor of love! My father was a Letter Carrier for 30+ years, I couldn't resist.

A fun drum table was calling to become a gorgeous clock table. And it was! It's always 5:00 somewhere, and this table didn't last long at the Antique Mall.

Mr. Funky Junk from the Country out did himself with this vintage bed turned into an amazing bench. This piece sold to a couple from Indiana who stopped by the Antique Mall on their way home. Enjoy!

This graphic is one of my favorites. Simple, yet classic, oh so pretty.

Every once in a while you have to bust out the white Sharpie and the General Finishes Lamp Black paint.

This is just the French typography, lots of custom work, tables and chairs, lots of chairs! Hope you enjoyed the pieces so far. Stay tuned for what the next six months holds. Oh I can't wait!

Thank you all! A huge "Thank you" to the "Graphics Fairy" for their fabulous graphics and their continued support. I am over the moon excited every time they feature my work. It never gets old, that's what keeps me creating.

Peace, love & junk,

Geniece

You can find me on:

Facebook: http://facebook.com/Funkyjunkfromthecountry

Instagram: Funkyjunkfromthecountry

Website:

www.funkyjunkfromthecountry.com

Pinterest: @funkyjunkcntry

Geniece & Jim

Happy Mothers Day!

2016-05-07T05:06:00.001-07:00

My two favorite Moms, my Mom & my sister, Celine! 💗

Happy Mothers Day! Yes, another year has passed and it's Mothers Day again. Every day should be Mothers Day if you are lucky enough to still have your mother. Call her today and every chance you can, because there will come a day when you can't.

My daughter, Candice, Lexi {{my grandsons Mom}}, my grand daughter, Jaiden and myself!

Have you heard that saying "Sometimes when I open my mouth, my mother comes out"? Lately my mother has come out! I said something the other day and seconds later I realized, I sounded just like my Mom! Wise & caring that is!

My Gramma, Goldie! She will always hold onto my heart, sigh! 💗

So, to all you Moms, step Moms, Grammas and Mr. Moms have a fabulous day every day!

Me and my sister, Celine! Yes, we are both Moms & Grammas! 💗

My two beautiful children, Christian & Candice! Love you to the moon & back! 💗

Peace, love & junk,

Geniece

You can find me on:

Facebook: http://facebook.com/Funkyjunkfromthecountry

Instagram: Funkyjunkfromthecountry

Website:

www.funkyjunkfromthecountry.com

Pinterest: @funkyjunkcntry

Geniece & Jim

For now I will wonder and dream...

2016-04-12T19:58:00.001-07:00

I picked this old suitcase up at an auction and immediately wondered "Where has this piece traveled? What was carried in it? Who owned it? Was it ever lost in transit?

Yes, I am drawn to pieces with a history. I want to know the story, you know, the rest of that story! The black round suitcase has seen better days, the edges are frayed and the handle is worn. Yet, wait for it...the key is tied to the handle. Yeah! The lock and the latches on the side still work. The fabric inside is worn, yet it has maintained it's color and pattern. It still has that look of distinction!

Because of the condition of the suitcase, I decided to add some French typography to the top with a white oil Sharpie. My obsession with French typography never ends, from suitcases, to windows, to furniture, if it doesn't move or bite....I see a potential canvas.

From the moment I spotted this suitcase at the auction, I have wondered "What adventures has this suitcase seen?"

It now has a new finish, a new breath of fresh air and is ready for a new adventure! The black round suitcase is available at the Maumee Antique Mall, Maumee, Ohio.

Adventure on, sweet suitcase!

Peace, love & junk,

Geniece

You can find me on:

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Website:

www.funkyjunkfromthecountry.com

Pinterest: @funkyjunkcntry

Geniece & Jim

Traditional to True Shabby & Chic

2016-03-03T04:23:00.001-08:00

I picked this dresser up at an auction, it appeared to be in decent shape. {{Don't they all?}}. Well, sometimes your eyes can deceive you! Like so many dressers we buy, it needed an overhaul. The drawers needed tweeting, the wheels were broken and removed. Several chunks were missing on the sides.

My hubby does all the repairs and preps everything for me. He did remove the handles and filled one of the holes for each of the handles. I prefer to use glass crystal knobs on my pieces, just my signature style!

Several coats of General Finishes Milk Paint in Antique White and it's ready for French typography. I have used this graphic before on a custom order with a very similar dresser. Having done this graphic several times it only took my an hour or so with a black oil Sharpie. Graphics can be found at The Graphics Fairy.com. The graphics are complete. I print my graphics out on graph paper {{yes, they do sell this at Office Max}} and then draw them by hand. The graph paper allows you to be able to block and determine where you start and spacing for your graphics.

Once the graphics are complete, it is ready for wax. I prefer Ebony wax from BriWax. Apply with a bristle brush and rub down with steel wool. Applying in small sections allows you to easily rub it into your piece and give it that finished look. I use a black glaze on the top, so I can then use General Finishes Top Coat in Satin or Flat to protect the surface from stains and liquid damage.

Off to the Maumee Antique Mall with this piece! Now, on to the next project!

Thank you so much for checking in on my junk adventures!

Peace, love & junk!

geniece

You can find me on:

Facebook: http://facebook.com/Funkyjunkfromthecountry

Instagram: Funkyjunkfromthecountry

Website:

www.funkyjunkfromthecountry.com

Pinterest: @funkyjunkcntry

Geniece & Jim

From Tired to Time Table

2016-02-15T18:46:00.001-08:00

Check out this old drum table that I picked up at an auction last year. I love this style of table, simple and elegant. Again, I knew as soon as I seen it what I wanted to do with it. Any guesses so far? Stay tuned!

After a good bath with vinegar and water it was ready for paint. It would take three coats of General Finishes Milk Paint in Antique White. With a little dry brushing in Driftwood in between coats, only to the top. I want this piece to have that aged feeling.

Next up, some numbers and a French typography graphic from The Graphics Fairy. I did use stencils for the numbers and then drew the graphics on with a black Oil Sharpie. After everything is complete, I will add a black glaze over the top and Ebony wax on the rest of the piece. Last thing to do, use General Finishs Flat Performce Polyurethane.

Yes, it is adorable, ready for a beautiful room!

Thank you so much for checking in on my junk adventures!

Peace, love & junk!

geniece

You can find me on:

Facebook: http://facebook.com/Funkyjunkfromthecountry

Instagram: Funkyjunkfromthecountry

Website:

www.funkyjunkfromthecountry.com

Pinterest: @funkyjunkcntry

Geniece & Jim

Happy New Year! 2016 You are going to be great!

2016-01-27T17:01:00.001-08:00

Can you believe it, a new year? So excited for 2016, new ideas, new projects, new adventures!

Well, my biggest adventure this year is going to be my 2 Barn Sales & Vintage Markets. Yes girl, I said it, Funky Junk from the Country is having a summer barn sale & vintage market. It will be held right here in our barn and on our beautiful property {{10 acres}}. Crazy right? Not at all, crazy fun! Our barn is huge and when cleared out and cleaned up, it is really very cool. Along with the Shabby Shack, the pond and the woods it is a beautiful setting.

Funky Junk from the Country will be the sponsor, and we are inviting 15+ additional antique/vintage dealers, repurposers and vintage dealers. Add a couple food trucks, some live music, face painting and paint demonstrations, you won't want to miss it.

So mark your calendars for the first Funky Junk from the Country Barn Sale & Vintage Market set for Saturday, July 23, 2016, 9:00 a.m.- 5:00 p.m. At the Funky Junk Barn in Monclova, Ohio.

Stay tuned for more details!

Contact Geniece Schaber at Funkyjunkfromthecountry@gmail.com or call me at 419-351-8943.

You can find me on:

Facebook: http://facebook.com/Funkyjunkfromthecountry

Instagram: Funkyjunkfromthecountry

Website:

www.funkyjunkfromthecountry.com

Pinterest: @funkyjunkcntry

Geniece & Jim

I Have Been Looking for You for a Long Time!

2015-12-03T01:36:00.001-08:00

I have been looking for you for a long time!

Have you ever looked for that one piece for a long, long time? The piece that would steal your heart, you knew when you seen it, it was yours? Well, I have several of those pieces in my head and in my heart! Some are small and some are tall, rusty gold, fancy and flashy, oh you know what I mean....swoon worthy.

As we were looking at the upcoming auctions for the week and noting pieces in the back of our minds that we wanted, there it was. Mr. Funky Junk seen the same piece and said "We have to get that one". Having heard that over the years, I just say okay, cool piece and keep looking. You see, I like shiny baubles and old glass bottles, suitcases and... {{ I really could go on and on and on}}. Mr. Funky Junk likes manly, big, heavy pieces of wood & metal! This piece had everything he was looking for. He already had a price in mind and a plan. All we had to do was wait until Tuesday for the auction, patiently wait. Mr. Funky Junk has the patience of a Saint, one of the things that attracted me to him {along with his smile and handsome looks}. So we would wait and act really calm and cool until Tuesday's auction.

Mr. Funky Junk already had a plan in mind even before we purchased it, woo, thank goodness we won that bid. As the bids were going up and up, I elbowed my hubby, you know that elbow, the one that means, don't loose your mind over this piece {even though it was that one & only}.

This piece was well worn and that perfect patina, you can not recreate! But, the doors were missing, you could see the cut outs for the hinges, no hinges, no doors. So Mr. Funky Junk from the Country would build a set of doors out of some old table leafs and some spare wood. He is a keeper!

Then to paint them and add graphics. This cabinet is amazing so nothing to fancy, just something to enhance it and add character. Ummmmm, this will take just a little bit of research on The Graphics Fairy website. I have been fascinated with bees lately, the bee cabinet, the bee suitcase the bee sign, you can see where I'm going with this this. Bees, bees everywhere! The Graphics Fairy website is so organized, you can find so many amazing graphics!

Well, the graphic was chosen and the Sharpies are ready. Sharpie up and....wait for it...go!

Now that the graphics are done, some Ebony wax to darken and age those doors to match that amazing patina. Yes, patina that has been years in the making.

If I could only sneak this piece into the house I would. It would stand tall and proud in my dining room, everyone would ooh and ah, yes, stunning. Oh my, time to wake up, back to reality. The hubby says I can not keep it.

After posting a pic on Instagram, I received an email that someone was interested. She called me and came out to look at it, paid for it and we delivered it. Sigh, it went to a wonderful home. A vintage collected and created is going to put it in her craft room and fill it up with vintage paper, metal and hardware.

This really is a once in a blue moon piece. Wow, now to search for another piece, just as stunning.

Thank you for dropping by!

Peace, love & junk,

Geniece

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Geniece & Jim

A time to be thankful......

2015-12-01T19:48:00.001-08:00

A time to be thankful.....

This is the time of year when we reflect on what we are thankful for. As you look back on the year, there are so many things that come to mind, gifts, health, babies, new jobs, yes we could go on and on. Yet, what really matters ?

As this year has been a difficult one for me personally, there is one thing that I am thankful for. It makes me happy, joyful and sad all at the same time,

My Dad, John T Shuff

I am thankful that I was able to call this gentleman my father! For 55 years I had the most wonderful man calling me his daughter. Not all times were great, not all times were bad, but my father was always that one person I could call for reason! He was always there to tell me I could get through it with my chin up and be a better person for it. My voice of reason, my reason to live life to it's fullest.

Yes, we had an empty chair at our Thanksgiving table, but the love and aurora of my Dad was there and will be with us forever. I love and miss you every minute of every day Dad, so until we meet again, that chair will always be at our table. I am thankful to love you to the moon and beyond, your daughter, Geniece.

My, Dad, John T Shuff

Take a moment and think about what you are truly thankful for......

peace, love & junk,

geniece

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Geniece & Jim

From Beast to Beauty

2015-11-16T06:54:00.001-08:00

From Beast to Beauty!

As soon as I seen this piece I knew I wanted it. Oh those great bones and detail just called my name! Having repaired several other armoires, I knew the work involved. Don't be fooled, this piece had some issues, a big hole in the back {how does that happen}. The left side was loosing all of its veneer, we knew some of it could be saved, yet quite a bit of it would have to be replaced. Better yet, I knew the beautiful reward of a gorgeous piece of furniture to cherish forever!

Finding it at an auction, you may or may not be the winning bidder. We always have a max price in mind as to what we will pay, and on occasion we go crazy, temporary loss of mind and go over budget! With all the work involved with the veneer, we won the bid well below our budget. A winner!

I nick named this piece the "Beast" because we had to load it on our junk truck, bring it home, unload again and put it on a cart. It has more than earned its name the "Beast". Who knew it would be that heavy. Calgon take me away after just pushing it into the studio!

Mr. Funky Junk had to place it on its side to repair the big hole in the back and to repair and rebuild the veneer on the left side. My hubby, Mr. Funky Junk is the love of my life and my partner in junk. {He is a retired policeman and my hero too.} Okay, enough mooshyness! He may ask for a raise, hah!

The Bakelite handles were removed, several were broken and will be packaged up and head off to the Maumee Antique Mall in our booth for sale. They are very pretty and retro, yet not in my vision for this piece. In order for my hubby to repair the veneer, we removed the drawers { ALWAYS number them} and checked them out. Next step, turn it on it's side, clamps, glue, bondo and elbow grease where all used to repair this side.

So I asked my hubby if he took a pic of the side while in repairs, answer: "No, did you want me to? " Ugh, "YES"!

Well no repair pics in action, it's ready for paint! Getting ready to put my paint brush in action. Fast forward, moved it into my studio {the room next door} and started painting.

I use General Finishes Milk Paint in antique white. It's my go to paint for all of my projects. Depending on the piece, it could take three or four coats of paint, allowing drying time in between. I use a brush and do not spray my pieces. Yes, it is a ton of work and takes time to complete. After typography and an ebony wax, you will understand. My style is unique and I love it!

Next step, my all time favorite way to spend an hour........browsing The Graphics Fairy website for beautiful graphics. Go check out Karen's fabulous site www.thegraphicsfairy.com, you will be amazed. I have seen this graphic completed on another piece of furniture and it was beautiful. Not a hard choice, I could already imagine it completed. Print out the graphics on graph paper, gather my oil Sharpies and I am ready! Hear me roar and watch my draw!

I always start in the middle of my project and work my way out to the sides and the entire piece. Nothing is perfect, I always have a white oil Sharpie on hand as well, it gets a workout! Quite often I have to get up, walk away and then stand back and check it out. Just to make sure I am on the right path and make any adjustments. Like anything else, some projects are easier than others. Other pieces just ooze a certain graphic and I have to go with it!

The drawing is complete. Amazing detail makes this graphic fabulous. This one was challenging and took me two days, a total of 6 hours. The first night I had to walk away and relax. My eyes were seeing double and I couldn't focus. My second day was fine and I could stand back and admire the completed design.

Now on to the real work, waxing the entire piece. My go to wax is Monbri in Ebony, using a bristle brush and lots of steel wool. When buying steel wool, I prefer no. 2 or no.3. To course will leave scratches and to fine will make you feel like your arm will never move again. Words of wisdom, wear surgical gloves, the wax will stain your fingers and the steel wool will leave your hands raw. Does this sound fun yet?

Apply the wax with your brush in small sections and then wait a few minutes before waxing. If you prefer a darker more aged look, you may have to wax and remove several times. Don't apply the wax very heavy thinking it will be easier...because it won't be! Waxing and rubbing with steel wool is hard work, but the results are well worth it! The steel wool and wax will tone down the graphics and give it that aged, shabby chic style that I love.

The left side has been waxed and rubbed with steel wool. The right has only graphics added. The older you want the piece to look, the more waxing and steel wool you will need to use.

You can again see the side and bottom right drawer have been waxed and rubbed. I will be adding glass crystal knobs and then final pics before the big reveal. Can you see the "Beast" transforming into the "Beauty"? Ooohhhhh, I can! {sigh}

It looks completely different now. Just wondering how many people would bid on it now? It has five (5) deep dove tailed drawers and the closet space {on the left side} with a wood bar for all of your hanging clothes.

This one was a challenge, yet I have wanted to tackle this graphic for some time, I'm happy I did!

Thank you for hanging out with me for this "Beast" into a "Beauty".

As always, peace, love & junk,

geniece

You can find me on:

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Etsy Shop: JunkfromtheCountry

Geniece & Jim

Fall 2015

2015-09-01T11:20:00.001-07:00

The Fall 2015

Can't wait for fall. The calendar says it's the end of summer and it is finally getting hot. Yet fall is just a month away.

My favorite season is fall! I love wearing jeans and a sweatshirt sitting around a bon fire. Cool temps at night, open the windows and let the fresh air in .

Oh, the colors. The trees, the leaves all warm red & brown! You know that the holidays are just around the corner.

Enjoy some of my favorite pics from last fall!

Fall flea markets & auctions are the best! I could walk all day at a fall flea!

Some of last years fall decorations!

Peace, love & junk,

geniece

You can find me on:

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www.funkyjunkfromthecountry.com

Geniece & Jim

My Wall Street Dresser

2015-08-08T17:17:00.001-07:00

The Wall Street Dresser-before

Every once in a while you have to try something new. New colors. new styles, new graphics, anything different!

So, that leads me to the "Wall St. Dresser". It started out as an ordinary tall boy, my hubby had to fix all of the drawers, not a one of them worked properly. The handles had fallen off, so we decided to fill the double hole on each side. I love to use glass crystal knobs, just my signature handles!

Color.......I love color, yet I work primarily with Antique White and Ebony wax. I have had a can of General Finishes Driftwood for about six months. Just never had time to use it. In photographs it appears more like the color of sand, yet when I painted this dresser it looks more like a grey. That's quite all right , grey is hot right now, what a fabulous color for the Wall Stret Dresser.

Driftwood by General Finishes Milk Paint

Choosing graphics is always fun, what to do? I primarily work with French Typography so creating block lettering will be a change of pace. Just keeping up with my skills! A coat of Ebony wax and a steel wool rub over the entire piece, it's almost done. Don't forget the knobs, clear glass Crystal knobs and it's done!

Ebony wax by Mon Bri Wax

Now check it out! Perfect for a little boys room, teens room or a family room. Ready for staging and off to the Maumee Antique Mall, Maumee, Ohio. Look for the Funky Junk from the Country booths, #241/242 & 258/259.

Peace, love & junk,

geniece

You can find me on:

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Website:

www.funkyjunkfromthecountry.com

Geniece & Jim

Vacation 2015

2015-08-08T15:59:00.001-07:00

Our men in Montana!

Vacation noun.

an extended period of recreation, especially one spent away from home or in traveling.

Every other year we travel with friends to Sturgis, South Dakota to ride the Black Hills. We ride, eat, laugh, camp & play cards. A time to unwind from a long hard winters, kids, work and businesses.

Sturgis, South Dakota

If you know anything about the Sturgis, S.D. experience, you know that it is a wild time, like no other! This was the 75 th Anniversary celebration and estimates are attendance was estimated to be 1.6 million bikes. It was crowed in some areas, but nothing overwhelming. We tend to ride the outlying papa areas anyway.

Our truck and toy box, filled with ultra classic Harley Davidsons inside.

We hooked up the truck and toy box on Thursday evening and set out. We didn't need to be in Rapid City, S.D. at our camp site until Saturday, so we had time to doddle and seek out antique or junk shops.

As a child we traveled a great deal and Mom would always say a prayer as we were pulling out in a huge woody station wagon packed with four kids, bread and sandwich spread, homemade of course. We packed sandwich spread, bread, iced tea and adult beverages, that we won't get to enjoy until we reach camp. My prayer is kept to myself, short and sweet, to keep us safe and allow us to have a great time! It works for me!

My hubby does the pre-planning for our trip, cleaning the toy box, strapping in the motorcycles and getting plenty of candy and junk food. I make sure I round up jeans, Harley Davidson t-shirts and warm comfy sweatshirts, for this nights around the fire ring. Sturgis, S.D. Is approximately 1200 miles and roughly 22 hour drive.

No vacation goes without a hiccup. Just like 2011 we blew a tire on the toy box just over the Indiana line, not far from home, considering the 22 hour drive. My hubby had to change the tire olong side the turnpike, with trucks wiping by at 65 mph. What a man, thank the lord he is an awesome mechanic. The organized man that he is, he had the receipt for he spare tire we blew before in his toy box glove compartment. Our next stop Iowa, we had the address and everything we needed to get it repaired and carry on!

Bullseye Antique's, Oacoma, S.D.

Along the way we had to stop at several antique stores and junk shops. As a junker you can't turn it off! I googled along the way. It's always interesting to see how other antique shops decorate or what's hot in their area. One shop had closed for good several months ago and one we just couldn't find. Check out these cool shops along the way!

Loess Hill Pickers

Book covers, cover their wall in the antique shop!

We have been to this antique shop several times on our journeys to South Dakota.

Have you ever went into an antique shop where they don't want to sell anything? This shop was it, the prices were so high, there was no way he ever sold anything, oh well, we loved walking through it!

The Missouri River

Mount Rushmore, Keystone, South Dakota

Scenic, South Dakota

The Badlands, South. Dakota

Alzada, Montana. {{Topless Tuesday}}

Hulett, Wyoming {{No panty Wednesday}} Don't ask!

There are so many sights to see in South Dakota and not enough time in a week!

Our vacation selfie!

Hope you enjoyed the highlights of our vacation 2015. We had a blast, relaxed and recharged! Now back to reality, work and junk!

Peace, love & junk,

geniece

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