See you in April

I am headed to the big Texas Antique shows and will not be back until April.  In the meantime, if you are in Texas, I hope you enjoy the blue bonnets and wild flowers that will be blooming:

(see even the cows like to have their pictures taken in the blue bonnets)

Have a great week and I'll miss catching up with you.  Stay tuned for lots and lots of pics, stories, and fun things when I get back! 

Are you Ready To Party?

That song "dON't bE TaRDy fOr ThE pARty" keeps ringing in my head, not really one of my fav songs but it does have a catchy tune to it.  Having said that and now that that song will play in your head all day, are you ready to attend the Blog Party, which is one week from today, Sunday-March 28th at 6pm at my booth at Zapp Hall.  Do you have your blog buttons/banners/ribbons made?  If you missed that post, read about it here.  You still have time to make something great!

(source)

Just a reminder (not that you need one), who all will be at the Blog Party:

1. 
   
   Jo Packham and Gina Galvin will signing their books/magazines
2. 
   
   Texas Live Magazine will also be there selling magazines from the past show, in case you were in it, you can pick up a copy or see what they are all about.  Click here to see the issue that featured several of us.
3. 
   
   Carol of Cookie DeMonde will be there selling her wonderful works of art cookies  AND
4. 
   
   Here's another treat Polly of Counting Your Blessings will not be able to make it the shows, but she's sent goody bags that I've already received and they are just gorgeous.  So be there early to get one and not miss out on these.  There is a limited supply of these.
5. 
   
   Also, don't forget there will be door prizes for the best Blog Button/ Banner/Ribbon and those that show up get to be the judges to vote on this (one of the best prizes has been donated by Robelyn of Red*Neck Chic and I've got more ideas on what I'll be giving away that you'll just have to show up to find out)
6. 
   
   YOU ~ I hope you've made plans to be there! 

Since I won't be participating in the blog ribbon contest, I just had to go ahead and show you what sweet Ann of The Tin Rabbit made for me.  I feel almost as if I'm headed to the prom, it's just so beautiful:

Thank you Ann, you're the best!

See who's mentioning the party:
Peacock Park Design 
Texas Live Mag
Gypsy Chix
Fiona & Twig
Curious Sofa
Time Worn Interiors
Sweet Pea
Callie Magee Antiques
Jill Suzanne
Chippy Shabby
Talking Trash
Laurie Anna's Vintage Home
Bloom & Bee Swanky
Raised in Cotton
The Red Door Antiques
Talk Sweet Talk

Looking forward to seeing you next Sunday!

Last Saturday

We were in Austin to celebrate my son's birthday.  We had a great time spending the weekend with him.  We winded up going to eat seafood rather than heading to The Salt Lick as he had requested, because it was so packed at their Driftwood location.  The place he picked was over the top, we had a feast, from oysters (my son and husband's fav) to gumbo (my order) to stuffed shrimp with jalepeno (oh so good) and that was just the appetizers.  We ordered fish and more oysters as our main course.  Here's the place we ate at, Pacific Star:

(Source)

While we were in Austin, we couldn't pass up the opportunity to go to the Austin City Wide Garage Sale (for those that don't know it's really not a garage sale, it's an antique show that has a little bit of it all):

Check it out:

From there we headed to Uncommon Objects on Congress Ave:

Our last stop was at Don's new place, STAG (right across from Uncommon Objects). 

You can check out Don's blog here. 

hAppY WeeKENd tO YoU!!

Show 411

I have to laugh everytime I get an email from Carol of Raised in Cotton and she call's me Sweet T 411!  Well, Carol this title's for you.  I know so many of you that are coming are new to the shows and you've mentioned a bit of being overwelmed just how big the shows are and you don't know where to start or some of you aren't even sure where you'll stay.  I'm sure it's not too late to book a place, even if it's in Austin or Houston, which these places are about an hour away (if you drive like my husband, ha).  But just remember a lot of the places do start booking 6 months in advance. 

The first thing I recommend when you get to the shows is to pick up a copy of the Show Daily.  Most vendors will have this in their booths.  It covers so much and will be a very helpful guide for the shows:

Check out their site for all the show info. you'll ever need.

Here are just a few sites for you to check out on where to stay:

• Flatonia Tx: Town Cottages
• Giddings Tx: Ramada Inn, I've heard this one seems to be a favorite with dealers because they said it’s clean, not fancy though
• Columbus Tx : Holiday Inn Express
• Somerville Tx: Best Western
• LaGrange Tx has several Hotels & B&B’s
• Burton Tx: Knittel Homestead 

I really don't know anything personal about these places, so if you've stayed here and don't recommend them, please let me know.  Or, if they are good recommendations,  please give me your thoughts.  These are just places others have recommended.  You might also check here for more lodging sites.

Okay, if you can't find a place others have stayed in their vehicles.  Just think it would be like you are at summer camp, sleeping under the stars.  Besides you'd probably only sleep for a few hours anyways, because you would want to be up early to go shopping. There are new showers and a laundry place in the middle of Warrenton.  You can't miss finding it.  You might bring extra clothes and blankets because the weather this next week is going to be cold in the mornings, but it looks like it's going to get to be around 70 in the afternoons.

Now, on to places to eat:

• 
  
  We discovered a really great place to eat Breakfast at the Tree Park Field, thanks to Lisa.  They serve really good eggs, pancakes, the works and very reasonably priced.  I don't remember the name but if you ask anyone in this field, they'll point you to them.
• 
  
  If you like Mexican Food, check out Manuels in the Sommerplace Field, next to Zapp Hall.  It's really good or try the Mexican eatery at The Texas Rose Show, across from Marburger Farms.
• 
  
  Of course Royers in downtown Round Top is a fav, just expect to wait about an hour, so worth it though.
• 
  
  Zapp Hall's cuisine is always a favorite of ours.  The pie is divine!
• 
  
  We like to eat at Orsak's in Fayetteville too, except I think we are banned from going there since we were so loud last time.  We did have the waitress laughing though.
• 
  
  On Wednesday nights there a great place to eat an all you can eat buffet in Burton, The Cactus Restaurant, and it's Chicken Fried Steak night with all the fixins and desert on Wednesday nights. 
• 
  
  Here's a site that covers so many more places in surrounding towns.

I know you want to know, where to shop.  Now check out Fancy's guide, she's done all the work and covered it all.

See you in, how many days?  5 days and counting!!!!!

Do You Know What Time It Is?

It's SHOW TIME...  Time to head to the beautiful country side that will be filled full of awesome treasures.  Can you belive we are one week away!!

Need I say more:

(the fields at Zapp Hall)

When  we were there this past weekend, we noticed that some of the tents were already going up in the fields.  The Marburger Farms show already had a lot of their tents up as do several other shows. Can you feel the excitement in this post.  Can't wait...  Hope to see you at Zapp Hall!!

BTW, HaPPy sT. PaTRIcks dAY!!

Accumulations Show Vendors

The Accumulations show was this past Wednesday evening and Thursday and what a blast it was.  I wanted to show you who all set up there:

Van Harrison:

Peg of French Vanilla:



Janette Bibby:



Steve of Uncommon Objects:



Amy of Bloom & Bee Swanky:


Linda Parker:




Micki & Brandy's barn with more pretty things outside:

My space:

I have to tell you a quick story about several other pieces of ironstone I had brought to the show.  It was all set up on a tall industrial rack that my husband had forgotten to tie down.  The day had been overcast but I didn't expect it to be so windy and along came this strong wind and you can guess what happened.  The rack toppled over and broke just about all of it.  Well, I was literally sick over it, but then I realized it was just stuff; stuff that can be replaced.  Well, let me tell you what a great group of friends that were at this show.  Not only did Steve, Ludmil, John and Van come running to help me out (since my husband wasn't there), but the girls gathered a box of their personal ironstone and presented it to me.  Thank you all so much for this and to Amy for allowing me to room with her and for the sweet gift as well and to Micki for the awesome cabinet.  You all are the best!! Despite this, it did turn out to be a great show.

Enjoy the rest of the show:

We'll be doing this again tentatively at the end of October, so keep watching for this event and I hope you make plans to attend.  Thanks to all the customers that showed up and especially those that mentioned they had read it on my blog.  Lisa and Linda you two are too funny, we'll have to do that again.

Check This Out

When Lisa contacted me a while back to let me know we had made the Texas Live Magazine, well I was super excited.  Last Monday night, March 8, I had the opportunity to meet and visit with the editors of this magazine and what a delightful group they were.  We met in one of the prettiest places in my town, the Whistler Bed & Breakfast.  We could hear the wind chimes clanking in the wind and the beautiful settings inside the home were just as appealing.

I want to let you know that they have a new blog, Texas Live Magazine, which you can check out here.  You can also purchase their magazine at any of the local bookstores or you can contact them to purchase it.  Their articles cover all different topics in Texas, like antique shops (Leftover's was included in a previous magazine), great places to eat or visit, and it is also now available online as a flip book, which is really cool.  Check out their site for more details.  The best part about meeting with them is that they are going to be at the blog party scheduled for March 28th at Zapp Hall, selling magazines, so if you're there you'll get to meet them personally and check out the magazine.  If you have a great place you want them to check out in Texas, be sure and mention it then or email them with the details.

Here's a preview picture of their newest post, see they even are getting their boots ready for the upcoming antique shows:

I have so much to share with you all this week.  I want to show you the The Whistler B&B, of course all the fabulous vendors that were at the Accumulations Show, what we did for my son's birthday, and... time is running out to get things ready for Zapp Hall Antique Show that starts next Friday, March 26.  Would you believe a lot of the fields are already putting up their tents.  Please check back this week for many more posts to come. 

10 More Days!!

Can you believe it, that we are 10 days away from being at some of the best antique shows in this part of Texas!  So, as I've usually done, here are 10 more reasons why you don't want to miss the shows:

(Jill's booth at Little House on the Hill show)

1. 
   
   The  Zapp Hall antique show is located in downtown Warrenton with opening day on Friday March 26th - you know I had to feature this one as number one since I'm here at this show. Let me go ahead and explain where I'll be located since several of you have asked.  My tent is located directly in front of the hall.  If you are standing at the front steps to the hall, look to your left.  I'm the only tent that backs up directly in front of it. As a reminder, my blog party is on Sunday, March 28th at 6pm ~ you are most definately invited if you are going to be in the area.  There are so many great vendors that are going to be at Zapp Hall, so come down and see each of them and be sure and check out Royers for great food or relax with your friends at the bubble lounge.  Also, don't forget this is where the famous Junk Gypsy crew is located and I so hope you've made plans to attend their prom on April 1st. There is no charge to get into Zapp Hall and have lunch at Royer's while you are here~the pie is divine!!
2. 
   
   The Marburger Farms Show - is in Warrenton, but this show does not open until Tuesday, March 30. You will have to pay $25 to get in early but I promise you it is well worth the early rate for the best stuff and displays. If you wait until after 2pm, it's only $10 to get in but all the great displays have usually been torn apart by this time. I'll be here early showing you what great things and artists/stylists that can be found here.  Check out their website for a list of who all you can find here and you can also find their exact location on their website.
3. 
   
   The Texas Rose Show - is located right across from Marburger Farms. Vickie is the owner of the show and their displays are always a must see. There is a small to go Mexican eatery here and they  make some of the best Mexican food around.  For those that know me, you know I'm very particular about my Mexican food, but I think it's some of the best around.
4. 
   
   The Cole's Antiques Show is located off Hwy 237 in downtown Warrenton, and here you can find more great vendors.  They also have really nice bathrooms here, which is important at the shows unless you just prefer using the port-a-potties.  It's air conditioned and great place to visit.
5. 
   
   The Clutter Show's opening party is on Friday, March 26 @ 4pm and this show is run by sisters, Shirley Schwantz and Staci Schwantz.  Be sure and get there early to wait in line to see their great displays.  They normally have wine, beer, drinks and refreshments for their opening party.
6. 
   
   The Gin is located on the opposite side street as Zapp Hall.  Here you'll find really great finds if you don't mind digging for that special treasure.
7. 
   
   The Bar W Field is located down from the Cole's Antique show and this is one of my favorite fields to shop at.  Look for their big sign, you can't miss it.  You just never know what you'll find here or who you'll see here.  There is just row after row of great things to be found.
8. 
   
   Little House on the Hill Show is located by the Dillards Field in downtown Warrenton.
9. The Tree Park Antiques Show, which is the last show on the left just as you are leaving Warrenton.  Look for their signs. 
10. The The LaBahia show is one of the first shows you will come to as you turn onto Hwy 237 from Hwy 290 or it's the last show if you leaving from Round Top, you'll pass Carmine and then it will be the last show before heading onto Hwy 290.

With this post I wanted to feature 10 Great Shows you don't want to miss stopping at. There are many many more places you can go shopping at but these are 10 must see places.  I didn't mention the great vendors that will be here because I'd like for you all to leave a comment letting everyone know exactly where you will be located.  See you in 10 days, if not before!!

28 Years Ago Today

Our oldest son was born.  I can't believe how fast time flies and he has grown from a sweet baby to a handsome man.  I'm so proud of the man he's turned out to be.  Let me tell you a little bit about him.  He came into the world on March 12, 1982 at 7pm.  He was such a tiny thing (6lbs, 8oz).  His first word was ball, which is kind of funny when most kids first words are momma or daddy, so this I belive set the course of what his favorite sport would be.  He played baseball from the time he was 5 until his senior year.  See what I mean by his first word setting the course.  He still plays ball in his spare time or you can find him on the golf course (like today).  He's taken the day off to play one of his favorite sports, golf, and what a beautiful day it's turned out to be.

 

We'll be celebrating with him this weekend, so there'll be more pics to come.  Happy 28th Birthday to my baby!!  I think everyone should have a week or weekend of celebrating their birthdays, right. Please check back for where we go for his birthday.  He's already told me where he wants to eat and it's one of our most fav places to go.

I also wanted to wish a very Happy and special birthday to Ms. Bella and Brandy, who along with her mother hosted the Accumulations show this past Wednesday and Thursday.  We celebrated with Brandy and the rest of the crew that was at the show.  Please also check back for the awesome friends that were here for their beautiful displays.  I'm sure Deb, Cat Daddy, Jenn and the rest of the family will be having a HUGE birthday celebration for Ms. Bella's day.  Hope both of you have a wonderful Birthday today!!

White Wednesday in the Hill Country

Tomorrow, March 10th, the Accumulations Hill Country vintage Home and Garden fair starts.  There is going to be so many awesome vendors here and coupled with being in the Hill Country is a double shot of excitement.  I hope you've made plans to join us for shopping and wine under the starts.  It starts at 4:00 pm sharp, get there early so that you can be the first in line. 

Since it's also Kathleen's White Wednesday tomorrow, I thought I'd do this post early and show you some of the white things you can find here.  Here's a preview of what you'll find at Brandy and Mickie's Barn, proud owners and sponsers of the Accumulations Hill Country vintage Home and Garden Fair. 

See the pretty white metal chandeliar?  Well, I just couldn't stand it and had to have it!

I don't know what it is about the School Sign and this display, just love it all.

Chicken feeders and the blue tool box are so versital, see you can now keep your ironstone in them.

Look how cute these garden shovels look all grouped together hanging in front of the window.  What a cute idea.

Cute display with a cute sign, can't go wrong with anything in this display.

More pretties on a shelf.

Rose plates and bowls are still a favorite of mine.

This is just cool stuff all grouped together.

I never tire of displaying with old photo's.

More photo's in this display.

Another great arrangement of things.

If you come out to the show, you should also make plans to eat at the Salt Lick Restaurant, which is located about 5 miles from the show.  Best BBQ around, it's so good, you'll definately be back for more.  We always sit on the screened porch because I like to watch the birds while we eat.  Here's a picture of hubby when we were there on Saturday:

Don't forget we'll also be open on Thursday, March 11th.  Hope to see you there!

FYI:  15 Days away from being at the biggest antique shows in Texas!  Are you planning to come out?  Sure hope so.

Accumulations ~ Hill Country vintage home and garden fair

starts on Wednesday, March 10th from 4:00 to 9:00 pm.  I hope you are making plans to come out and see the awesome vendors and enjoy an afternoon of shopping and wine under the stars.

(click here for details)

Here's the list of who you can find here:

☼ Mickie & Brandy ~ proud sponsers/owners of the Accumulations Show. 

☼  Linda Parker of Fragments & Imperfections.

☼  Amy Bradshaw, owner, Bloom & Bee Swanky in Waco.
☼  Steve Wiman, owner, Uncommon Objects in Austin.
☼  Janette Bibby of Dream On.
☼  Van Harrison Antiques.  
☼  Peg & Jon of French Vanilla.
☼  Linda & Ludmil of Willows Nest Farm
☼  Of course we'll be there

The show will continue on Thursday, March 11, so if you can't make it out on Wednesday, you can still come and shop from 10:00 to 4:00 pm.

The address is:  3800 Elder Hill Road, Driftwood Texas.

For more info., contact Brandy at 512/731-0570 or bshults73@att.net

We will have a very rustic and outdoorsy booth, with some other things mixed in that I've been working on.  Hope to see you there!!

20 MORE DAYS & The Junk Gypsies!!

Can you believe how fast time is flying and we are only 20 days away from being in Junker's Paradise.  Can you feel the excitement in the air?    Rather than give you 20 more reasons why you don't want to miss coming out to the shows, I thought I'd show you a new blog instead.  I'm sure you all know the famous JuNk GYpSy cREw, well they've got a blog that you just have to check out:

(Source: JGB)

I believe this picture must have been taken at the last show.  The memory of all this mud wasn't a pretty site, but we all survived!

Be sure and go over (click on their name above to be routed there) and welcome them to Blogland.  See you in 20 days or less!!

More Blog Party News on a White Wednesday

I know it's White Wednesday, but I wanted to share more Blog Party News with you, so I've just joined the two posts.  Not only will Jo Packham and Gina Galvin be there selling and signing their magazines and books, but I've also invited Carol of Cookie Du Monde to be there selling her works of art cookies and petit fours.  Let me tell you if you've not had the pleasure of trying her awesome creations, then you are in for a real treat!  She makes the most awesome cookies that just melt in your mouth.  Carol also sells her beautiful finds at Zapp Hall each Spring and Fall, she's located around the corner of the hall by the Zapp Hall Restuarant.

Take a look for yourself:

(source)

Be sure and check out Carol's blog.  She can probably create anything you are looking for and she does take custom orders for your next shower, party, or celebration and she's located in the Houston area.

Also, don't forget to make your name tag/badge/banner whatever your mind comes up with to create and wear at the Blog Party and there's going to be a prize for the best one created.  Here's the fun part about judging the name tags, Theresa, Time Worn Interiors (famously known as TOT) suggested that you all will be judges rather than trying to select someone to judge that may not have been partial to their favorite *wink*, so no I guess CD can't be one of the judges, you know he'd pick his favorite CD Kitten.  You all get to select which one you think has made the best name tag and the one with the most votes wins the prizes!  So get busy creating!

One more exciting thing, Robelyn of Red Neck Chic has so graciously offered to donate one of her beautiful purses as one of the prizes, so as you can see there's going to be more than one prize, so I know you don't want to miss the opportunity to come out and join the fun!

You can see more of Robelyn's designs, here.

If you are new to my blog and hadn't heard about the party or the name tag fun challenge, click here and here to read more.  So looking forward to seeing you at the party on Sunday, March 28 at 6:00pm, if not before!!  Don't be late.

Also, be sure and visit Kathleen's blog for all the White Wednesday participants.