It's All In Texas

Have you ever wondered where the best antiques, junk, and stuff is. Well, for the next 10 days it's all in Texas from Brenham to Round Top to Warrenton to Fayetteville and everywhere in between. We were in Warrenton this past weekend and dealers were already unloading and setting up from all over the United States. The fields are almost completely set up, and probably by the time I head that way tomorrow evening I bet most of them will be ready to go. I took a few pictures to encourage you come out. You don't want to miss it!!

Here are Donna of Curious Goods and Renee of A Junk Queen's Booth:


This old hospital examining table came from a Malakoff Tx hospital.


Renee always has lots of nests.



This next booth was from a dealer from Fort Worth. Loved this clothes closet:

I hope you make it out. If you do, stop by Zapp Hall and say hello. I won't have internet access while I'm in Warrenton, so be ready for tons and tons of pictures when I get back.

The Potting Shed

Linda's will debut their Potting Shed opening tomorrow morning at 10am in beautiful Burton Texas. I know they've both been working deligently to have it ready for viewing. They've planted flowers, herbs, and sprinkled the place with their magical touch. Now with the opening of their Antique Shop, Bed & Breakfast, and now potting shed they will have their hands full. And, to top it off they are getting ready for their big Antique Show that starts March 31.

When I saw Ludmil's creative touch on this fence, I just loved it. Isn't it a work of art in itself.

You know you'll find all kinds of gardening things, baskets, nests, eggs, and art from found objects. Hope to see you there.

It's Almost Show Time!!

(photo credit: http://madelinetosh.typepad.com/)

Can you believe that the Round Top/Warrenton Antique Shows will start in about a week. Well, technically as I previously mentioned in the last post some of the shows will start this weekend, but one week from today I will be in Warrenton Texas. I am so exicted and can't wait!! I always look forward to being back in the country. I guess part of it is because I grew up in the country and can't wait to be back there. I take my vacation twice a year to spend it at the shows and I can't imagine being anywhere else. I'll get to see my friends that normally I can only see twice year, there's the best junk on earth that you can even imagine here, and the customers/friends just make it so worthwhile.

I wanted to mention some flea market tips for those that possibly have never been and are planning on coming out to the shows. When I was on Sue's blog, Junk Market Style, the other day I saw her tips and thought it was just appropriate to do a post on them as well. The main point is just to have fun while you are out junkin'.

Here are Sue's tips:

1. Early Bird Special: You already know how the saying goes, “The early bird gets the worm”! Many flea markets across the country offer an early entrance option for all of you leave it to eager- beaver junkers. This alternative is not for bargain boppers, but for those of you in search of the best selection. You will have to cough up some extra green, but the variety of junk is hm-hm-hm good. In a nut shell; early entrance fee (varies), coffee and doughnuts (five bucks), early bird experience, priceless.

2. Search First, Rescue Later: We refer to this strategy as the “straight jacket“ defense to over paying. Take a loop-de-loo around the entire flea market before making any purchases (Let me just add this may not be possible in Texas, if you see something you like you better buy it, because if you come back it will probably be gone!!). Although, there are some downsides (you may miss a snag or two) to this plan of attack, but more times than not you’ll be happy you employed it.

3. Where is the Real Junk? After you’ve scoped out the market and retrieved your initial must haves get your boots a walkin’ to the back forty. What does this mean? Head out to the very back of the field and work your way back in. Vendors who have staked claim in the field are most likely to have what we consider to be the coolest of cool. You will find stuff in the rough with more potential than you can shake a stick at. What’s even cooler are the price tags or the lack there of, allowing you to inquire. What will you take for this thing with its ears cut short and its tail cut long?

4. Junkers on the Down Low: While out in the back forty, leave no stone unturned. Vendors will display their favorite junk confectionery, but the sweetest of sweet may be tucked away for later. Listen to that sweet tooth and ask if their might be any hidden treats perhaps slipped under the table, or in the back of their truck or tailer. If you dare to ask, you may be in for a pleasant surprise. Scrounging in the underworld is what true junking is all about, so, go for it! This is something that will not require a trip to the dentist, quite possibly a welder, but most definitely not a dentist... thank goodness for small favors!

5. Let’s Talk Turkey, The Art of Negotiation: Negotiating is indubitably an art form. At the end of the day you want everyone to be happy. Vendors work very hard searching high and low in order to bring out the best in show for you. Rule number one is not to offend the vendor. Rule number two is not to offend yourself, so pre-determine what you can afford to pay for something you like. Rule number three, combine rules one and two and you are set to go. If you can’t bear the expense, politely ask the vendor if he or she can do better. If the answer is no, be prepared to walk away and say whatever you were after is out of your price range. Don’t say I’ll be back because that will leave the vendor laughing.

6. Cash and Carry: Cash, don’t leave home without it. Although some vendors are now accepting plastic, cash is still king at the flea markets. Before heading out the door make sure you have what you need in a variety of denominations. Twenties, tens, fives, and ones are best. Vendors always appreciate not having to break your honey bees. Oh, and by the way, make sure to keep it all in a safe and handy location. We’ve found that stuffing your back pockets is not all it’s cracked up to be.

7. Never Believe the Weatherman: (This is so true in Texas!!) Be prepared for sunshine on your shoulders, the rainy day blues, and everything in between. A full day at the flea market can produce a potpourri of weather conditions. You’ll want to pack a sensible bag of necessities. Items like bottled water, sunscreen, lip balm, shades, and a hat are a must (Let me add don't forget your comfortable shoes--you'll do a lot of walking). You may also want to consider layering up your wardrobe (This is really important!). Don’t worry about being stylish, this is not an audition for America’s next top model. As the brisk morning air gives way to the smoldering afternoon sun you’ll be able to shed layers on the fly without missing a beat or a hot deal. In case of the dreaded inclement weather situation, make sure to have that rain poncho and gollashes in the car ready and waiting. Don’t let a little torrential down pour send you packing like everyone else. Keep in mind if the storm sends folks running for cover you will be left with the goodies all to yourself. We do not advocate, however, junking in a lightning storm. Even we have to draw the line somewhere!

8. Don’t Find Yourself Lost in Translation. Some flea markets are expansive (just like this one), some are small, and some are just right. In any case you’ll want to know where you are, where you’re going, and most importantly where you need to back to. If you’re planning a major haul kind of shopping experience you will probably find it necessary to leave some purchases with vendors for pick-up later in the day. If so, it is imperative to make a map of your junking journey. Some fleas have maps available (you can pick up the magazine "SHOW DAILY" almost at any booth or show and it will include maps of all the shows), but if not, make sure to have a small notebook in your arsenal to make your own. You will want to jot down the vendor location (aisle, booth #, etc.), vendors name and contact information, and a list of the items left behind. The last thing you want to do is get home and realize that you forgot a favorite find.

9. Don’t Be a Hungry Junker. Do you ever go to the grocery store when you are hungry? Mmm, mm, bad idea. Most of us have learned this valuable lesson through personal experience. Why did I spend $50 on twelve bags of munchies? If you don’t have a plan of attack you might just have a similar escapade at the flea market. This time instead of buying silly food, you’ll be buying silly junk. Prepare a list in this order, things you need, things you want, and maybe a few things you’ve been dreaming of for quite some time. If you do this you’ll feel more in control, you will be less likely to over-spend, and you won’t end up with a lot of impulse buys that will assuredly take up residence at your next garage sale.

10. Don’t Let Your Eyes be Bigger Than Your Volkswagon Bug: Remember the junk you buy throughout the course of the day needs a ride home. Easier said than done!

My last tips are:

** Don't forget your cart or at least a bag to carry your smalls in. However, I really recommend a cart because once you load that bag up will be heavy to carry around. I also recommend putting a liner or a bag in your cart. Most carts are used to carry large items and it's not made for small items. You can use the bags to carry your smaller items in, but you still want to make sure they don't fall out of your cart so having a larger bag will hold it all.

** Bring plenty of water and snacks. You don't want to dehydrate yourself. With the way the Texas weather is, it can become very hot and drinking plenty of fluids will help to keep yourself hydrated. Also having snacks will prevent you from having to stop and spend extra money on foods that aren't always the heathiest to eat and you could save that money for finding more stuff.

** Bring comfortable shoes. I can't stress this enough. I've seen shoppers in high heel shoes and I know they've got to be uncomfortable. Remember, you are literally in the middle of a cow pasture. There are sandy spots, uneven spots, and the last thing you want to do is fall down and hurt yourself.

The important thing is to Have Fun!!

Where Do I Shop at the Shows (revised)

In a previous post, I mentioned I would share some of the places you could shop when you come out next week to the Round Top/Warrenton Antique Shows. Some of the shows start this weekend March 21st and run through April 4th. There are so many great places to shop and this is only a small portion of dealers not to be missed. One of the first shows you will come to when you turn onto Hwy. 237 is the La Bahia Antique Show. This places has dealers in tents on the outside and inside their building. I always love coming here because you can always find a treasure. Melonie and Brian of The Seed Box Antiques are located at this show. Their tent is at the front near the main road. Click here for pictures of their booth during last Fall's show.

The next show located about 5 miles down the road on the left is The Big Red Barn. This show is packed with dealers inside the barn and they've added tents on the outside as well. Tricia of The Red Door antiques will be located here. Check out her blog for details of her location and show hours.

As you arrive in Round Top, The Gone To Texas show is located on the left side. If you see the Merry Christmas store, you've gone to far. You'll find Donnie at this show. I've featured him previously on my blog and he has some of the best finds I've seen. I love his displays too! Be sure and stop in and see what he's found. Click here for last Fall's pictures of his space.

Right before you arrive in Warrenton, you will see The Texas Rose Show. Vickie is the owner and she always has great things and displays. Susie and Hector and Maggie of The Veranda are located at this show. You can also find Susie and Hector at The Tin Star Field in Warrenton.

Almost directly across the street from this show is The Marburger Farms Antique Show. Many of my friends are located here. You must arrive early at their opening day to find the best things. If you wait until the afternoon, all the good things are just about gone. Theresa of Time Worn Interiors, Shelley of Sweet Pea, Tricia of The Red Door, and Peg of French Vanilla are all located by the road in Tent H. In Tent A is Robin of Magnolia Pearl, Judy Hill of JHillDesigns, Linda of Willows Nest (they are all located right next to each other), and Linda Parker is located toward the beginning of the tent. In Tent B is Mo McSwane of Rubbish and Co. and Terri Squyres of Garden Worthy. You'll find their links on my side bar or go to the Marburger website for more information.

At the Cole's Antique Show you'll find Janet Romaine of Rubbish II. She always has such unique finds, lots of ironstone, flash cards, and butter pats by the pound. Stop in and see what she'll have this Spring.

The Ex-Cess Show is located next to Cole's and here you'll find Michael and Ed of The Leftover's Antique Shop. Clutter is located next to Ex-Cess. On their opening day they'll have a party that afternoon to celebrate this and it's always a lot of fun to attend.

The Bar W field is located almost right beside Clutter. Here you'll find Renee of A Junk Queen, Susan of Found Around, and Donna of Curious Goods. Donna is new to this show. I know all these ladies have been shopping like crazy to find great things for the show. They will start setting up and probably already will be open this weekend. They are located by the port-a-potties. Be sure and go early to check them out.

Of course, there will be so much going on at Zapp Hall, you may not want to leave here. This show starts on March 26th. You'll find lots to do like eat at Royer's, have a blast at The Blog Party, dance the night away at The Junk Gypsy prom, and shop with these great dealers: The Junk Gypsy booth is located right off the main road, MaryAnne is located in the Chicken Coop behind the JG booth, my tent is located right in front of the hall. Bobby Boyd is located right across from me. There will be a lot of great dealers in the Big Tent (I misunderstood that Laurie of LaurieAnna's Vintage Home would be there, but not until the Fall). Gina of Country Gardens and Richard of Alston's Old Home Place are located in a big tent together. Carolyn Westbrook is located in her cottage across from Royer's and Deb of Talking Trash will be back in her old spot beside Royer's (I'm so glad she'll be there at least for a few days and she'll quickly go back to be with her daughter and new grandbaby). Stay and visit, eat, and listen to the bands that play in the evenings, or just hang out at the Bubble Lounge, which is always open during the show.

Still not enough shopping or fun, continue down the road and you'll find Gloria at the Gin Tent. She has a new blog and a secret writer that writes all her posts. Check her out here.

Jill is located at Little House on the Hill field which is right across the street from Third Base field. She's located by the creek. Jill has a shop in Lousiana called Jill Suzanne and she always has the best smelling candles around. They last a really long time. She'll bring lots of treasures and one of a kind things as well.

Last, but not least you'll find Lisa of La Rustique Market at the Tree Park Antique's Show. She's also new to this show, a first timer. Check out her blog for more info.

For more information on the shows, click on the websites or you can also find lots of info. at Show Daily.

See you in a little more than a week! I can't wait!!!! Click on the picture above to view some of last season's slide shows.

It's a girl

Deb of Talking Trash wants the world to know that her beautiful grandbaby, Bella Marie, was born yesterday, March 12th (what a great day). Please continue to pray for her and her daughter Jenn. She said Bella came into the world kicking her little legs and making a lot of racket, like her Nana.

Please go to Deb's blog and wish her and her family well and lift them up in prayer!! Bella weighed one pound and will stay in the NICU for a few months until she gains weight and strength. God has really been with this family the whole time and we want to continue to lift them up in prayer.

Congrats to the whole family and we'll be praying that she continues baking (as her sweet momma put it)!!

God's best to you all,

T

March 12, 1982 Event

Do you remember what you were doing March 12,1982? Now look at the date, not yesterday, but 27 years ago today. Some of the things that happened then were Katherine Hepburn and Henry Fonda were being considered for an Osar for On Golden Pond, the Dow Jones industrial average diped to 795.47, its lowest level since April 23, 1980 (fast forward 2009), and The U.S. Department of Labor announced a drop of 0.1 percent in producer prices.

Well, I can tell you exactly what I was doing and it's a date I'll never forget. I was in labor, or should I say but not with pain. I know I'm one of the fortunate ones that never experienced labor pain. I awoke that morning, not feeling that well, big as a house and my water broke that morning. My family rushed me to the hospital thinking that any time, he would be born. Well, he had a mind of his own, and still does and decided he didn't want to be born until 7:00 pm that evening. No wonder he's a little night owl! He weighed 6 lbs. 8 oz. and you could hear him crying all the way down the hall. He was the prettiest baby to be born, as was his brother. He had this very distint cry that no other baby had and we could all tell it was Brandon crying. Back then, they kept you in the hospital 5 days if you had a C-Section, but now you are quickly released. We came home on St. Patrick's Day and of course he wore the cutest green suit home.

Well, now 27 years later, he only get's more handsome as the years go on and we are so proud of him. He lives in Austin, one of the pretties towns in Texas, and works for a great company. We went and celebrated his birthday this past weekend with him. I still see this little boy that grew up playing baseball from the age of 5 until his senior year. He was the best short stop our town had. Picking on his brother, running through the house snaggled tooth and laughing the whole way as he ran by me. I so miss those days and sometimes wish I had just one more moment with them being little again.

Happy Birthday SON, we so love you, and hope you have the best day ever!!

Here's Mark, Brandon, and my husband.


Brandon and Courtney.

Here we were all at Guero's:

Book Signing Tour and Blog Party

I am so excited to be part of Sue Whitney's Book Signing Tour in Texas to debut her new book, Junk Beautiful Outdoor Edition. Her book is full of ideas for creating beautiful outdoor settings and many ways to use what you have to create that one of kind atmosphere that only you can add your touch to. Her book signing tour starts Friday, March 27 at Gatherings, our most favorite store in Georgetown, from 1:00-3:00 pm and continues in Austin that evening at Uncommon Objects, our most favorite store in Austin!!

On Saturday, March 28, she can be found back in Georgetown and that evening she'll be at Leftover's Antiques Shop!! Wow, she's going to all the best places. We will be at Leftover's that evening as well, would not miss it for anything.

Her tour then brings her into Warrenton that Sunday, March 29th at OUR BOOTH!! I cannot even begin to tell you how excited I am about this event!! The Blog Party will be held during the Book Signing Event and everyone is welcome to attend. Even if you do not have a blog, but maybe you are thinking about starting one, or you just want to hang out with us and have a great time, please stop by. You will no doubt laugh until your side hurts, have a glass of wine to toast being in Warrenton in the middle of so much wonderful things and people, you'll think you've gone to JUNK HEAVEN!! Please let me know if you can make it out to the Blog Party. It starts at 2:00pm!! There will be several drawings to be held in my booth. Sue is having a giveaway of her new book and magazine and I'm having a giveaway as well. DON'T MISS IT, YOU'LL REGRET IT!!

Sue and I during the show last Fall

She will continue with her tour at Marburger Farms Antique Show on Tuesday, opening day, from noon until 3:00pm by the Cafe. At 7pm that evening, you can find Sue at Royer's Cafe in Round Top. You better go early if you want to get a piece of their pie!! And a seat for that matter...

Her tour will end on Friday, back at Marburger Farms, but of course Sue would not miss the JUNK GYPSY prom on Thursday, April 2, for anything. This is a NOT TO BE MISSED EVENT!! Only at Zapp Hall at the Junk Gypsy booth. Don't be late!!

Here is a preview of the Junk Beautiful Outdoor Edition book:

(all book photo's: Junk Market)

Click here to check out her Texas schedule and you can read more about her book here. See you real soon!

Weekend Trip in Austin

We spent this past weekend in Austin to celebrate our oldest son's birthday. It was an absolutely beautiful weekend and the weather could not have been any better. The more time I spend in Austin, the more I'd love to move to this area. We had such a great time spending the weekend with our boys. Since we were eating at Guero's Taco Bar, you know that I could not pass up an opportunity to stop at Uncommon Objects. Everytime I visit this store, it always changes, nothing remains the same.

This guy was at the front of the store, welcoming customer's. He has a bone to pick with you if you've never been here:

Click on the picture to see the rest of our trip.

Antique Queens

Lana, owner of Antique Queens in Rockdale Tx is having a one year Anniversary celebration this Saturday, March 7th at 9:00 am. She owns a multi-dealer shop and the only dealer that I know that I always stop and check out is Janet Romaine of Rubbish & Company. She's doing so well with the shop that she's expanded to the building next door.

The shop is located at 106 W. Cameron Ave in Rockdale, TX 76567 (512) 446-4655. If you are anywhere near Austin, Waco, Temple, Bryan/College Station or anywhere in between stop in and celebrate with them. They have a wide variety of things to choose from.

Here are preview pictures of the shop:

I'm also helping her create her blog. Go over and welcome her to blogland and check out her shop if you are in her area.

Where's all the people and stuff?

Today we headed out to Warrenton Texas to check out the scenery. We loved driving through Brenham and Burton and seeing all the pretty blue bonnets that are already blooming, even the dog wood trees are budding. Isn't it too early for these, but maybe they think it's already Spring with the crazy Texas weather we've had. Once we hit La Bahia, Carmine and Round Top it's a really different place minus all the people and stuff that you would normally see during Antiques Week. Where were all the bumper to bumper cars and crazy women passing in no passing lanes to hurry and get to a show before all the goods are gone. Yes, one season a girl in a black Suburban was in such a hurry to get to Marburger she was passing in no passing zones just to wait in line for the show to open. Crazy, but I've seen so much more I could tell you, but I'm sworn to secrecy because what happens in Texas stays in Texas (ha ha)!!

You could tell the show promoters are getting their fields ready to welcome the crowds that will start arriving in less than two weeks. I have several friends that will already start heading that way around March 15, so it'll be here before you know it.

Here's what the show grounds look like during the year, without the shows going on:

Zapp Hall right where the Junk Gypsy's normally are, where's the suburban:



Marburger Farms looks really different, no people, tents, or cars lined up blocking the traffic:

Here's Clutter, minus the clutter of people and stuff. You can see Ex-Cess and Cole's in the distance:

Last but not least was Bar-W. No Renee or Susan could be found, but wait a few weeks and this place will be transformed as well.

Are you getting excited about these shows. I sure hope so, there will be lots of cool things I'm sure and there are always great people that come out. In one of my future posts I'll be showing a map where all the places not to be missed are. Happy trails!!