Junkin at Barntiques

Tick, tock, tick, tock...

2011-04-22T16:25:00.000-07:00

MY! MY! Time has certainly been ticking off of the clock! I haven't blogged for a very long time. February 27th was the last one. Alot has happened in that time period. My dad has been ill, hospitalized and now residing with my husband and I. I am the only child (long story). He is 84 and has given up. I told him that it really wasn't up to us and as long as he was here, we were gonna make the best of it. He has been an avid and somewhat possessed collector. Keys, padlocks, safes and every other thing he could drag home. And, if he couldn't drag it, he would go get it with a friend that has a tow truck. No kidding! We celebrated the birth of our fourth grandson. Elliss Keann Fleshman was born on March 7th. He has three big brothers, Easton (7), Emmitt (5) and Eaghan (18 mos). We got to spend six days with them and cherish each moment. So, now that Spring has officially started, (but no one has told Mother Nature) we begin the countdown to the opening of Barntiques. I have gathered many pieces, big and small, over the winter. Wow! It is so full that I am struggling with moving things around to set up displays. The weather lady said tonight that the sun will shine tomorrow and hit sixty on the thermometer! Bring it on! May 7th is the opening day for us and I am still in the painting, sanding and staining mode. All for now, gotta get organized (yeah, right) for the morning. Hopefully I will accomplish alot and even take pix!

What do you think?

2011-02-27T08:38:00.000-08:00

Today is Sunday, the typical day spent going to church and spending time with the family. Well, that is how I was raised. I still have a very strong faith, but do not find it necessary to attend a church. Our family is very small. And our sons family do not live close by. We raised our children through Sunday School and confirmation. And they have both found their own churches. I have a dilema. I have gathered several Bibles. They are not from our family. They have no writing to identify any names or family trees. I would like to do some projects using the passages. Do you think that this is sacreligous? I have had them sitting in my project box and really need to use them or pass them on. Let me kno what you think.

Hello SpRiNg!

2011-02-16T15:01:00.000-08:00

Ever wonder why 40 degrees in the autumn are sooooo much colder than 40 degrees in the spring? For those of us that live in the midwest can stake claim on this one. In November when the mercury dips down to the 30's and 40's, we are all pulling out our sweatshirts, coats and gloves. In February the mercury hits 40 and we are all grabbing the flip flops and bringing out the capri's. We all know that it is rare and that there are most likely some snow and ice coming before the calendar marks spring...but, we gotta dream! And today is a dream. I went for a long walk when the sun was high and warm on my face. Can't believe it will be in the 60's tomorrow, but like I stated earlier, there is snow in the seven day forecast.
I am patiently (as patient as I can be) waiting for the phone to ring and summon me to our sons house. Our fourth grandbaby (think it is a boy) is expected soon. And when I get the call to come help out, I will be on my way. We live five hours away. And the boys can now tell time, so we are really held to the clock on travel. Our daughter in law is a good woman. Yep, she is in the minority of male to female ratio. Easton is 7, Emmitt is 5 and Eaghan is 17 months. It is a busy household and I am thrilled that they want me to come help.
So, the sand paper is out and in great demand. I have several items painted in red. And it is a very orange red, but you know we will darken it right up. Sand it some more and be great. I am being drawn to the paint lately. I have also been working on some glass totems.
I am hoping to make the trek to the barn tomorrow. Can't wait to see what all we have to work with. Love the change of seasons and I really love the awakening of spring!

Is it blue or is it green?

2011-01-31T12:03:00.000-08:00

I have been bitten by the paint bug! I have painted nearly everything that is not nailed down. I started with a little wood piece that will be great for a fun sign. Then I moved onto a little table, two tool boxes, a coffee table, a three drawer dresser with cool industrial handles, a night stand, an old window (frame only), a couple of wall shelves and a dining room chair. I am in love with the color somewhere between the shade of the blue ball jars and a robin's egg. I just have to admit that the chest of drawers will be kept in my dining room. I will fill it up with linens, seasonal decor or just plain old junk.
The current project of the week is trying to come up with a redo for a box of clock works. There are a couple sizes of the actual clock face behind glass. So far, I have opened them up and covered the face with pretty paper. I have also adhered a vinyl letter on the front of the glass. I think I will try to make a couple look like shadow boxes. The front is rounded so it could hold something with a bit of depth.
I have several heart shapes cut out of fabric but I am fighting with the bobbin holder! When I get them sewn and filled I will be putting them on bed springs. I have never met a bedspring I didn't like!
All for today. Keep checking back, with any luck I will get Gale to take and post some photos! Happy junkin!

Can You Spell Inspiration?

2011-01-22T12:01:00.001-08:00

I have really been scouring for some inspiration. Looked through my own junk in the house. Can't get into the barn yet! Hoping for some warmer temps next week. Yep with temps in the twenties! Been looking at magazines. Checking out Junk Salvation's site. We (Sheri, Vern and I) made the little road trip to Gilbert(about 10 miles!) Went to our favorite shop, JB Knacker! Brenda has the touch! Love the primitive & the glitz together and just the right touch of quirkieness. Not really sure there is such a word, but no matter what,she has it! From the front window with the silver bike with the glitzy seat all the way through the shop and up the stairs, it is totally junk in the trunk! The harvest table, the chandeliers resting in the cement bird baths, typewriter key charms, metal lockers and cookies from the Cupcake Emporium! It was just what I needed. I am now inspired. Thanx Brenda for a fun morning!

BRRR!

2011-01-20T15:04:00.000-08:00

It is soooo cold here in Iowa today. And the forecast is for colder and even snow. It usually doesn't snow when the mercury dips down below ten degrees. Windchills predicted at -25*. Yes, MINUS ZERO! So, a good day to warm up with old friends. I sure fell off the seven posts in seven days! Can you tell I have a problem with procrastination? I KNOW! I made a trip to Hobby Lobby today. Lots of sales this week. I bought some pretty paper for seventeen cents a sheet. And, some pretty pink sequin ribbon. Can't pass up pink!
Vern and I are Scentsy consultants. Scentsy is a company that sells a wickless alternative to scented candles. We love it. We have warmers in several styles and sizes. And the scents are out of this world. I pick a new favorite every week. Baked apple pie, Reggae Sunset, sticky cinnamon bun, toasted caramel sugar, Mochadoodle, rustic lodge just to name a few. Can't wait for the spring/summer catalogs next month. We have a website for that so you can go check it out, fleshman.scentsy.us. If you have any questions or want to know more about it, hit me up here or at www.junkinatbarntiques@yahoo.com.
My project for tomorrow is fix the bobbin on my sewing machine! I talked to it nicely this am, but I still failed. I have some hearts cut out of some cute material and need the machine to put together. Then I junk them up with jewelry, skeleton keys, buttons and anything else to jazz them up.
So, for today I will sign off and go read some blogs of some very inspiring people. Thanx for checking us out and I hope you leave me a message!

Happy New Year!

2011-01-16T12:49:00.000-08:00

Happy New Year! I seriously cannot believe the last post here on Junkin at Barntiques was August 31st. So, instead of beating myself up, I will just pick it up here and run! The shop was open only on the second Saturday of the month last year and we have decided that we need an extra shopping day for all of our friends. We will open in May and be open on the second and the fourth Saturday through September. We will be having specials each sale. We have had plenty of snow here in Iowa so it has made the barn impossible to gain entry. I have although been working on many ideas and projects in the dining room. I love the fun robin egg blue paint that is really helping me see spring. Speaking of springs, I have two full iron bed frames that will be calling my name to get out the bolt cutters and have my way with it. LOVE, love, love old bed springs and just about EVERYTHING looks fun perched on them. I must say that I have an over abundance of windows that are making their way to the dining table for some fun communication/photo boards. We sold out of our junk necklaces. They were a big hit and we will be having fun with some new ideas from our favorite junker, Sheri. Always on the hunt for new fun junk to share. I am challenging myself to seven days of blogging, starting today. I never really know where I should draw the line between junk blogging and our personal lives. So bear with me on that. There are just so many things to share with our junk family. We have been through the circle of life with Sheri's mom passing away and her daughter giving birth. New babies are the best! Gale had a new grandbaby too and we will have one next month or so. Marriages,loss of friends and family, reconnections with old friends! Here's to a great 2011!

2010-08-31T15:33:00.000-07:00

I am going to try to do little blogs about some of the items available at Barntiques. We only have a couple of sales left for the year. Yikes! Gale has been making the cutest burp rags. They are made out of soft flannel. It is similar to my favorite old fashioned bib as it covers the shoulder, but it has a little bit of an addition to protect the shoulder going down the arm. Yep, I just knew I could describe it! About as clear as mud. Anyway, she is going to bring one over so we can have a photo of it. I have already ordered three. They will be priced at $4.00 each or three for $12.00. Great for shower gifts or just a fun part of the layette. A couple of the prints were trucks, baseballs, pink leopard print, yellow and blue. See ya here at the sale, September 11th, 9am-3pm. In honor of 9-11, we will be selling all Americana items for 50% off. Hope you can stop in.

Smelly Parties!

2010-08-27T15:50:00.000-07:00

Our great niece, Kamry used to come to my (Auntie kay's) house while her mom was working. She and I played the day away and then had naps. Her favorite thing in the whole wide world was the Little Mermaid movie and smelly parties. We would dress up and paint our nails, fingers and toes, put on makeup, brush and comb our hair (that is when I had hair!), put on glittery fun and spray ourselves and anyone else that would play with us with body splash! That became known as a "smelly party." Then, Kamry got a baby sister and didn't get to come every day. It was only special days and then she grew up. She is fourteen now. A beautiful young lady. And...she still remembers our smelly party. I painted an old suitcase pink and prettied it all up for my youngest great niece, Nyla. We had smelly parties too. What brought up the smelly parties is, Vern (and I) are going to start selling Scentsy. We have just joined but will get our starter kit and all the necessities within the next 10 days. Lots more on the new Smelly Parties coming soon. The website is fleshman.scentsy.us. Can't wait to share it with all of you. Have a great weekend and try to take time to smell the flowers. Or any other good smelly!

Newly junked items

2010-08-24T04:59:00.000-07:00

Here's the scoop...Tin cupola... 2 well worn barn doors... 6 drawer wooden cupboard that is black with white handles... wooden boxes... two cast iron base (white, garden square like for umbrella possibly)... big old trough, no, I mean BIG old trough... rusty tools... tall clear glass bottles, some with lids... keys... vintage, rusty tool (mounted on a board, has a gear on it)...OLD screen door for a shed...baby crib, hopefully to make into a bench...enamel kitchen ware, white and gray...small metal oil can...just to name a few items that I junked this weekend. Last week junkin...three large wooden boxes, one of which is a trunk, one is a very old wooden box with a tray inside...two matching dining chair...one upholstered straight chair...2 wooden ironing boards...baby scale (two pieces)...and lots of other cool stuff. Gonna have to wait till our next sale, Saturday, September 11 from 9-3 at 2000 5th street, Nevada, Iowa. Will mark all items in the Americana theme down in honor of those killed on 9-11.

Where did August go?

2010-08-24T04:22:00.000-07:00

Where in the hell is August? Where did the summer go? I just opened my door to hear the birds sing, the sun rise in brilliant color and there is NO HUMIDITY OR RAIN IN THE FIVE DAY FORECAST! And, let me tell you it has been a L-O-N-G time we have been waiting for this day. This day...my oldest grandson, Easton (new 1st grader) and his brother, Emmitt (new Tk student) will board their bus this morning to start the new school year. Easton is a bit nervous and nothing really scares Emmitt. Wish I were there to see them when the bus comes up the long gravel road to pick them up. Last year, Easton asked the bus driver if he could just drop him off at Ma Kay's house. It was not on the route (dammit anyway). He told him, he would just have to go down this road and then turn. How I would love that. We spent this past weekend with them in northwest Iowa. We took my dad, (GG) to see the new place they live in. (new to him) Ate too much as usual, hugged and smooched alot (never enough) and went to a rodeo. The boys did mutton bustin at the intermission. Hysterical to watch these kids hang on for dear life while riding a sheep that had released from a shoot, just like the big guys on the bulls. The youngest one was 2 1/2, oldest was 9. Easton did really well and Emmitt took fourth place. I would almost buy some sheep to watch it again! Love my family. Easton, Emmitt and Eaghan will be big brother to a new baby E, somewhere around March. Hope your day is filled with sunshine and love.

It is a baby girl!

2010-08-10T12:24:00.000-07:00

One of our junkers here at the barn will be meeting her brand new grand baby today. Aly Kay was born on 08-09-10! She weighed nine pounds and was 21 1/2"long. Her mom and dad are Stephanie and Jon Bogatzki. They live near the Twin Cities. Mom, dad and baby Aly Kay are doing well. Can't wait to see you little princess! Congratulations to all of them! 143 Oh yes, remind me one day to tell you the importance on the numbers 143!

Long live air conditioners

2010-08-10T12:16:00.000-07:00

I am sitting in our house with the air conditioner running. I have decided that I have it pretty good. I CAN NOT believe people lived without air conditioners. I know that we got our central air conditioner the day they walked on the moor. And, some still live without it. I sat with a friend on a porch around lunch time. It was shaded and had a decent breeze. That I could handle. Then I went to the grocery store and it was chilly! Left and came home. I sweat a bucket carrying in groceries and putting them away. I am now praying to the Air Conditioning Gods! I know I need to go work in the barn for our SECOND SATURDAY SALE! But I am giving that a second thought. I will let you know if I really go out and work. For now, I will keep praying to the A/C Gods until October!

...and rainy again!

2010-08-04T06:57:00.001-07:00

And it is still raining, with one day out of the next seven that has sun! Starting to get really soggy! And the Iowa humidity? EWWW! I really did do a post on Monday. Don't know where it is, but I did do one. We have just turned another page in the calendar. What? School supplies? Must be true cuz hobby lobby has had their Christmas items out since June!
We are getting busy out in the barn for the next "second Saturday sale! August 14th is quickly approaching. Lots of new (old ) stuff. Metal tables, wooden boxes, tool boxes, furniture that will hopefully get painted. Kitchen wares and mantiques has gotten the most items this month. Hope you all can be here. Saturday, August 14th from 9-3 at BARNTIQUES. We are located at 2000 5th street.
I want to send some comforting prayers to many of my friends. So much suffering. I am sorry for them to be on this path. Please say a quick prayer. I feel so helpless for everyone that are grieving and I worry about those that are ill. We continue to send heartfelt sympathy and continued prayer. From your Barntiques junkin buddies.

Rainy Monday-hmm

2010-08-02T06:00:00.001-07:00

It is still July

2010-07-31T13:18:00.000-07:00

I had to hurry and post a blog today so it doesn't look like I only had one post for the whole month. Wow! Not real sure where the time went but it is almost time to turn the calendar again. We had a really good time at Briggs Woods. The cabins were so quaint. Great breakfasts cooked over the fire by Michael and Courtnie. We were in charge of dinners. The mosquito's were in charge of entertainment. Sprays on our bodies and several different outside sprays were no challenge to the hungry little blood suckers. It was fun to watch the boys play and sleep. More play than sleep!
We had picked up alot of fun junk right before the July sale. And...lots of it sold quickly. Our August 14th sale will be bigger and better. I have been very fortunate to acquire many new (our new is really old!) pieces. The barnyard is full of doors, iron garden items, well worn tools and great decor,scroll wood from a lovely home here in Nevada. (I will miss my "window guy!") He and his family moved to Florida. Good luck to Tom Peace and his family! We have many new glass/crystal items. If it ever cools off (and I don't mean SNOW!) I am gonna go crazy with white spray paint.
Barntiques will be happy to have Rick Trine back with his willow furniture. What lovely pieces and great prices too! Haven't heard from Mary (the spa girl) and Sara (the jewelry lady) yet. We have got some fun things we are working on. Sure hope they can be here too. Our barn family is growing by leaps and bounds. Here's a shout out to all of our friends that have been having a tough go. Love ya all and know we are praying for you. I will do my best to get back into the blog mode, so be patient with me.

Wow! Gotta play catch up!

2010-07-07T16:16:00.000-07:00

Don't know where to start because I have sooooo much to tell you about. My oldest brother lives in Macon, Georgia. Haven't seen him since 2003. Haven't hung with him for many years. He is turning 60 and his class threw a birthday party for themselves and eachother. I forgot how much I love him. He is alot of things and has so many stories. We are 10 years apart and share the same momma. I know she was happy that we got together.
We have just refinished our own hardwood floors. My grampa built this house in 1938. And I think he got his money out of their years. It was ALOT of work, but doing it with my husband and seeing the end product was great. PLEASE DON'T EVER, EVER, EVER ASK ME TO HELP! Well, maybe...but not any time real soon.
I went to the fourth of July parade on the third of July in our hometown. Vern is really not much into parades, so as I was on my way to Lowes, Menards or Home Depot, I stopped and watched. Nothing like Old Glory flying so beautifully. Old timers riding on the veterans float, tractors, emergency units from ours and others hometown. Makes me get weepy. Love Independence Day.
On my way home from any of the MANY hardware stores, I saw a sign for a garage sale. It was a Saturday and I figured with alot of people having the day off, it would be busy! Let me tell you that I started "a pile". And to all of you that know garage sales, gotta have a pile. Started picking out and hauling stuff to "the pile". I bought so much stuff, that the guy said he thought I might need help getting these treasures home. They were selling out their junkyard. Can you say metal tables, rusty milk cans, old steel wheels, garden iron ware, 6 foot metal lockers, great old rakes. So, I called Gale and she and Willie came to the garage sale. It really wasn't as exciting to them than it was to me. By this time, the man having the garage sale had hitched up a horse trailor and brought it out to load up. I have been to alot of sales, I have NEVER had to have it hauled in a horse trailer. I think Gale will be posting some pix! She and Willie shook their heads, but they knew I was in hog heaven. It was the bomb and he still has sheds that he hadn't opened in years. Gonna be sure to give me a call before the next sale!
So, better get off the computer and go do some work for the Second Saturday Sale! Did I mention that it is Gale's birthday, so come on over for some cupcakes!

Sheri's jewelry

2010-07-01T14:26:00.000-07:00

Day 5 of 7! We may have a break in the original goal. We will be refinishing our hardwood floors. They look pretty worn, but they have alot of stories to tell us. Just a reminder that we live in my grampa's house. Love it! So, Vern and I are going to work the holiday weekend. Hope it goes much easier than I have pictured in my head. (We won't go there!)
Junker Sheri is so creative and unlike me, follows the project from start to finish. Well, kinda. We have been gathering old spoons. We will take any and all that you have on hand that are not using. Actually, after you see her new jewelry line, you may want to keep them. As usual, no photos. I have three of them and I can never choose which one to wear, so I wear them all! She takes the spoon, turns them over and flattens them. And, she has a real method. Hammer to spoon! And, then there are a few secrets to the final product. She has two different sizes of letter press. A few of the words she has used is Ma Kay, nana honey, x0x0, junk mama, sew little time, quilt junkie, and alot more. She finishes them off with cute little junk embezzelments. So cute and they are selling like hot cakes!
Guess you will just have to come to BARNTIQUES next Saturday, July 10th. We will be here from 9-3! FuNkY JuNk and JuNkY FuN! WE are located at 2000 5th st, Nevada, Iowa!

2010-06-30T05:24:00.000-07:00

Day 4 out of 7! I am over half way there! Today we are going to talk about Gale's lamps. It is pretty straightforward. And as you get more acquainted with Gale, that is just her personality. Don't ask if you don't want her opinion. Willie is her junk husband. He can do ANYTHING that we have asked him to do. Pulled out a set of steps from a garage and re worked them to fit in the barn. So thanx to Willie, Vern and Gale for that addition. We get so many compliments on the steps and upstairs. You all know, well, now you know that I talk out loud and think through, ok partially through projects out loud. Can't do that around Gale and Willie because they are standing,and there they are waiting with their tools to start and finish the job. I can imagine the outcome, but, I am not realistic on how to do it. They are!
Back to the lamps. And, yes I will get Gale to post some pics on here today or tomorrow. They have scoured yard sales, good will stores, neighbors trash (one of my favorite shopping spots). Always a keen eye to old lamps, parts, shades and whatever. Some of the lamps that they made and are gone is a pink melmac coffee cup and saucers piled cutely on top of each other. And just to let you know, I have more of them, so maybe it will be replaced! That one went to a good home Saturday. They have made them out of old lantern, soccer ball, birdhouse, oil can, you name it they will try it. I would try to give a tutorial on it, but can't tutor a subject I don't know. Maybe we can get one of them put their actions in words.
So here's to day four. Hope you enjoy!

Thanx Andrea

2010-06-29T06:12:00.000-07:00

Day three of seven postings! I was asked to make a presentation to Bible School kids at the methodist church here in town. I don't really attend church so much, but I do have a history here. I was baptized, confirmed and married in this church. Lots of great memories. My momma has been gone for 22 years and I can still see her sitting in the last pew.
The theme of the week is Survivor. They asked me to speak on the survivorship of cancer. I survived with my co-survivor (husband) three and one half years ago. So, I am trying to prepare something that would be fitting for all four of the age groups. We survived through the faith that we have. I know that God guided my amazing journey so that I could talk about survivorship. Some days I feel terribly guilty that I am a survivor. That is when I have to take the time to pray. I am thankful that I am known as a survivor of breast cancer. I wear as much pink as I can and talk to as many as I can that early detection saved my life. My sister in law had cancer. We had a great conversation over the phone about all kinds of stuff. The last thing she said to me was "get your mammogram". She died five days later. As promised I made my appointment and had the procedure. It was one month to the date of her death that the doctor told me I had breast cancer. We prayed and cried. We had to tell our kids. So hard that was. But I knew that God was with us and I had to be strong. Two months to the date of her death, I had my bilateral mastectomy. I was lucky. They removed the cancer. I know that God was with us in every way. And my sister in law got the last word. Thanx Andrea.

Button, button, who's got the button?

2010-06-28T12:00:00.000-07:00

Day two of my commitment of posting here on our blog for seven days in a row. Figure by day 7 it should become a habit!
I love buttons. Big, little, tiny, shiny, four hole, two hole, round and any other button I find. My dad used to go to so many auctions and in the treasures he found would almost always be a jar or card full of buttons. So, many years ago, I too started picking them up as they are so available. I have put them in jars, lamps, wreaths, on photos and crafts too. My latest button craze has been making little flowers out of them. I will try to get the junk photographer to snap a couple of pix and post here. I have sold over 200 of them. And now, I will be adding them to fun junk in the barn. They look so cute with a couple of them and a simple tied bow. Adorable on a little tree. I use 3-5 buttons varying in shapes and size. I put the largest one on a wire, following with the next one in size. Then I push the wire through the rest of the wire coming back down to form a stem. Wrap them up with a little flower tape and WA-LA! A cute little flower to nestle into a book mark, decorate a gift, glue them all together and make a bokay of them on a plan gift bag, barrettes for the hair. Here's hoping that you will get inspired and make your own little button flowers.

Got lot's of catching up to do!

2010-06-27T04:56:00.000-07:00

I apologize for the lack of postings here. I am not sure where the time went, but there was alot going on, I guess! Welcome to all of the new readers that picked up our business cards with zealousness yesterday!
Huge shout out to Brenda and the gals (yes, you too Neil!)at JBKnacker. We feel so privileged to have been included on the first Breakfast Club in 2010. You guys always do it up right! The girls that came here were so fun and 95% of the customers were straight from your doors. THANX BUNCHES! Brenda posts and advertises in all the right spots and then shares with us little guys. I wonder how many made it back to Gilbert having completed the route. Great fun. If you haven't ever been to JBKnacker, they are at 123 main street in Gilbert. I only wish I had the eye for design and setting up the most fabulous displays.
We have began selling jewelry. And was that a hit yesterday. Sheri is the master of design for these quirky little sayings pounded into old spoons, trays or anything else you may want personalized. First day of selling and sold 6 or so.
Gale and Willie have made lamps out of interesting items and her pink melmac coffee cup lamp sold. Don't worry, if you want one, I have more pink (go figure...pink?) dishes to make more.
We have done alot of junkin and have a whole building to pull from to cover the empty spaces made yesterday. The best part of having these monthly sales is we have time to go looking for just the right rusty tool, lantern, ladders, garden decor, fancy smancy glass, furniture and all the other great finds.
I will be posting more often and the junk photographers will be posting new pics!
With all of the hub bub yesterday I forgot to tell people that there are a litter of baby kitties that we have not found yet. Mama kitty has hid them well this time. Hope you all visit here again and next posting will have hints for what you may find at the next sale...July 10th which happens to be junker Gale's bday. Maybe we will have cake! No candles in the barn, especially 51 of them!

Past, present and upcoming

2010-06-19T14:51:00.000-07:00

Well, we have some catching up to do. Our first sale went great. Fun to meet great friends, old and new. Sara with handmade jewelry and Mary with spa product were a great addition. So much fun, we have asked them back. Seriously it was so fun! Gale, Sheri and I have been working on new projects. We will be open on Saturday, June 26th from 9-noon for a special sale. Brenda from JB Knacker, 123 main street in Gilbert is having a Breakfast tour. You start at her shop and the treats and coffee are ALWAYS so good. She has a great shop filled with so many handmade items, repurposed junk, great ephemera and a real compassion for her shop and her customers. She is a gem. She will be giving out a map with several (4-7) barns, shops and a garage sale to die for. I will be giving out yard stones to the first 13 (love that number) customers. And I have a few other ideas up my sleeve. I have been gathering and the barn is so full we have little settings outside in the barnyard. I will promise to be more current, there is just so many things and so little time! Plan on a great day of junking on Saturday. It is sounds like alot fun, I want to go when we close. See you soon. Remember our sale is on the second saturday of each month. I will try to remember to let you know where the other sales are for the tour.

May is my favorite month!

2010-05-01T16:28:00.000-07:00

Today is the first day of my favorite month. Growing up we had a great time making and delivering May Baskets. They were made out of plastic or paper cups, the plastic green baskets that strawberries came in, whatever we had on hand. The handles were always pipe cleaners. We filled them with popcorn, m&m's, gum drops, sprigs of lily of the valley, lilacs and any other goodies. The simple joy of delivering them was so great. Last year, Sheri and I made them out of scrapbook papers, filled them and delivered to several of the elderly ladies she cleaned house for. The conversations with these women were remarkable.
There is quite the fury going on in the barn. Displays torn down, switched up a bit, painting furniture and finding treasures that I had forgotten about.
We get so excited seeing our old friends and making new ones. Mary Nesset will be joining us this month. She will be sharing her spa products. And, she will be bringing her friend, Sarah, that has just began her own line of jewelry.
Between the weddings, graduation parties, mothers day, birthdays and anniversaries we will try to keep our sanity. (We all know better than that!)

Happy Monday!

2010-04-19T06:02:00.000-07:00

I am forcing myself to do a quick post here this morning. I have grounded myself to the garage for creating and the barn for displaying! We have some tables, a beautiful wooden shadow box, and lots of window projects calling my name. Gotta get it all prettied or junked up for the opening of Barntiques. I am going to get fliers created and printed up this week. Can't believe how fast May 8th is approaching! Time to fly...fill ya in on the days progress!

IT'S A GIRL!

2010-04-11T05:40:00.000-07:00

Yep, it is a girl. A five month old, blue merle, Australian Sheep Dog puppy! I really don't know what the hell I was thinking but when the grandsons asked if they could bring us a puppy. My heart melted, the brain went to mush and all of that even smoodged Papa Vern. He is the one that said,"Absolutely no more dogs." That turned in to "ok, but she has to stay outside!" The first two nights she slept on the deck. Then, we started introducing her to the resident k-9's. She started melting our hearts and on the third night, we both told her it was time to go to bed. She marched right behind the two little dogs that sleep in our bedroom and we both said "Good nite Maisy." She really slept well on the floor at the bottom of our bed! And, has continued to sleep there! So, we are now in the midst of puppy world. The common words are "no-no biting" (on my sleeves), "Maisy, come!", "Oh man, how am I gonna explain the shredded atlas? the ripped coffee table book that we had for three days? the foot cushion (which did have a tiny hole in it)? and a cleaning rag (didn't get into much trouble on that one, didn't really want to clean any way! And of course the positive lines like "good girl maisy (rhymes with daisy), nice poopies!" I am sure there will be more Maisy stories, but hopefully some successful stories!
We worked in the barn yesterday and had a great time. Gale (our photographer has many talents) moved a wood pile into a lovely stack. We made about four extra feet on each side of the hay loft for more display room. Worked on a couple of areas of garden-ish, pretty dishes and some mantiques displays. Pretty much tore up the whole up stairs. But, it is gonna be awesome when we are done.
Willie, the junk carpenter, worked his magic on a dining room table for my house. It is made from the barn door that was removed from our "brooder house" before my dad tore it down. Four fence post legs with spindles nailed on for trim. Yep, it is awesome. I white washed the legs and am ready to put a sealer on the table to keep the rest of the paint chippiness intact. I LOVE IT. Gale will be posting photos on here so keep checking back.
I think that I really get the best end of our bartering system. Actually, I mention an idea and before I know it, Willie is here measuring and scratching his head saying "yep, I can do that", and Gale is the hands on laborer. All I have to do when she says she "may want this or that for this or that", is say come and get it.
Great day of good hard work. Can't wait to get back out there. Gotta get, Maisy is pacing, that means gotta potty!

I am so excited!

2010-03-26T14:54:00.000-07:00

I have been very busy out on the junkin route. Our junky photographer has snapped some shots and will follow. Here's a teaser...windows, banisters, trellis',rusty tools, a set of wagon wheels on the axis, cast iron skillet, old metal bucket, 2-3 shelves, really, really, really old rusty fencing, lead glass vase, 3 small metal tool boxes,tables and desks to die for. It has been so fun and so innocently acquired. Gotta love life when you can do what makes you happy.
The business cards arrived this week too. I love them, but wish I would have put "second Saturday sales". But, word of mouth, blog and facebook will get the word out.
I am going to go price some of the items now. Can't wait till May 8th! Hope to see you!

We Made It! We finally made it!

2010-03-02T15:57:00.000-08:00

We made it! Yes, we finally made it. We made it to the barn and shoveled and picked at the snow and ice. And, we opened the door far enough to gain access. Kind of access. Seriously, we were in snow drifts up to our wahtoosies! But, we did it! There was only a small bit of snow in the hay mow. The barn kitties have done just a few minor repositioning of the displays. Brenda from JBknacker, in Gilbert, just a short jaunt away is having her big shabang on Saturday and Sunday. Go check her out at www.jbknacker.com. I have to say she has the goodies. And some came from Barntiques! It really felt wonderful to be back in the barn. It is filled with junk, pretties, garden items,windows, tables and desks, glassware, mantiques such as vintage camping chairs, rusty tools, shabby chics and the best thing, memories. Memories of mine from my childhood and also the stories that we are told about other precious moments of our customers. I have lots of new fun things for the Second Saturday Sales starting in May. All for now, gotta work on the new (old) stuff! More to tell you about in the next post. Maybe some photos too!

Snow, more snow, wind...

2010-02-09T07:09:00.000-08:00

I think I am going to take up a collection, go to Pennsylvania, reach in the hole and pull that damned ground hog out of his hole to show him what he has gotten us into! Seriously, we have set the records for snow, missed work days, missed school days, roads closed and the bill for the nice man we pay to clean our driveways out have hit the high note too! I realize the winter has been tough on everyone. And I believe that God only gives us what we can handle, but even with prayer, I am ready to scream. Good thing about it, I don't have any reason that I have to get out in it. Cleaning houses don't rate real high on the "don't travel unless it is an emergency" list. I love cleaning with my Barn Buddy BFF, but we are fair weather girls! And last nite one of my Barn Buddy BFf came over and we rolled balls of yarn. Yep, doesn't get much more fun than that. I have the pot of beef stew on and it is smelling marvy! And, my table is full of projects. The bowls and blue ball jars of skeleton keys,vintage jewelry, tiny padlocks,tokens,vintage tags, birds nests, old frames, an old bread box that is being painted, and some pretty silk flowers are all calling my name. I have priced and boxed things headed to the barn. Wish I could get out there. There are sooooo many snow drifts and some as high as the garage roof that it would be impossible to get there. Now, that was an unusual comment from me. The idea of not being able to get to my junking? I better go drink some tea. I must be getting sick!

Living for the ones who have passed.

2010-02-06T18:45:00.000-08:00

I was diagnosed with breast cancer one month to the day that my husbands sister died after her very valiant fight to this demon. It was 2006. I have swore to do all within my power to raise money and awareness so others don't have to die. Early detection saved my life and I want to save others too. I chose to have a double mastectomy. My medical team was aggressive. Fortunately, I did not have to have chemo or radiation treatments. Sometimes I feel guilty to put myself in the survivorship club. I did not have to bear the pain and agony of what many others have gone through.
My best friend, Kyla lives in Boston, Mass. She saw a commercial advertising the Breast Cancer 3Day Event and she immediately called and said we needed to participate. Boston was one of the twelve cities for the event. My husband, myself and Kyla formed Team Wicked Pink. The planning, preparation physically and mentally was a challenge. Each person had to raise
$2,200.00 to qualify for walking. We all made our commitment and more. I must say that it was challenging, amazing, gruelling, fun, emotional, exhilarating, did I mention amazing, fulfilling and many other words. I have never trained for a three day, sixty mile walk. Again, I will say it was amazing. We camped overnight in a sea of pink tents. Took showers in a semi truck. Ate better than any family picnic I ever attended. Walked side by side with survivors, family member, fighters of the disease while just taking chemo. Talking all the way about each of our stories. We carried penants with Andrea's photo specially made for us through one of my husbands co workers. There were men dressed in pink tutu's and fish net hose. There was one team that attends yearly and they carry back packs with first aid, vaseline, lip balm, tampons and pads! Signs along the path. Horns honking! I get goosebumps now each time I hear the advertisement on tv. And for our surprise 50th birthday party, the guests were asked not to buy the silly black, over the hill, run of the mill gifts. But, to make a donation to the Susan G. Komen foundation. What a lovely gesture.
Barntiques is a blend of many people that have felt the pain of cancer. Cancer is not picky. It attacks young, old, strong, weak, rich, poor, nice or mean. The pain is felt in so many ways. So, this year instead of raising the money solely for breast cancer, we will be donating it to the American Cancer Society. I am not sure what all we will do, that is what the planning committee will handle. (I hope there is a planning committee!)
So, here it goes. Barntiques will be accepting donations and marking those items for a portion of the sale to go to the American Cancer Society. Wish me luck, I think I can smell a taste of victory. Please pass this on to others that may live near or far that would like to participate. I KNOW that we will be able to make a difference. Everyone deserves a lifetime.

I am a picker by birth

2010-01-26T04:19:00.001-08:00

Last nite on the History Channel at 8pm was a show called American Pickers. It is about two guys that search out the "real fine collectors of Junk" and buy what they can and resell the items. Novel idea! Alot of us junkers have been "picking" since conception. It was a good show and the first stop was in northeast Iowa. It shows that they do have a headquartered shop that junkers can call and then if interested, the American Pickers go picking. The picker went to a collector of any and everything. He had busses parked (and had been parked for many years)out and about the property FILLED with junk. There were electrical items, a HUGE sewing machine he had used for his leather making shop. He had a windshield for an old motorcycle that had vintage state stickers to show where the rider had been, bycicles of any age and parts to who laid the rails. It did reveal that the picker had a collection of bikes and was a great interest to him. They picked up a canister set for $20 and had a resale price of $70! I almost croaked. The same set is sitting on my cupboard and it has been there since 1938. Yes, I will admit that I screamed and giggled like a junior high girl.I really enjoyed the show. They were respectfull of the junk yard and took the time to listen to the many stories that are associated with each piece of interest. The show also gave me a positive vibe that someday, the winds will stop howling as it creates snow drifts higher than myself and the temps will rise. Anything positive in the weather is a big boost here in central Iowa. I enjoyed the show and it really gave me the bug to get out there and start picking.

Buttons, buttons, I have the buttons

2010-01-17T13:48:00.001-08:00

I am from a long line of collectors. My dad will be 83 next month. He has ALOT of collections. He began collecting when he was eight years old because his teacher asked for each of them to find something they liked and wanted more of. Being a child of the depression era, they didn't have money to just go buy things and toss after a few days. He found some keys that were not being used for anything. And today he has hundreds of thousands keys, several thousand padlocks, thirty or more safes, rocks, anything that is Winchester, pencils, railroad items, salesmens samples and buttons. The winter weather here in Iowa has been terrible. He has a five gallon glass bottle and thought he would go through some of the buttons and fill the bottle. The mission has been completed. I have no earthly idea how many are in the bottle. So, now I have jars and coffee cans full of buttons that were extra. To say the least, I have been looking for projects using them. They range from teeny tiny to about two inches in diameter, all shapes and sizes, different colors, some are for military uniforms and some are just very interesting. I am thankful that he has had something to keep his mind and fingers busy. I don't know which collection he will work on next. But, I know which one I will be working on!

2010-01-12T15:14:00.000-08:00

The new year has everyone searching for happiness, wealth, success, you know, all the important stuff. My theory on this is...clean the basement. So, a couple of days ago, I took the plunge. Our house was built in 1938, so it has the block basement walls. One corner is the coal room. There is the fruit room. And the main room still has a functioning well pump. I love this old house and I am truely honored to live here. I have some issues with staying on track, so it helps to have several different rooms! I jump from room to room. The goal for the month is to get some organization with all of my junk and make room for the projects that I have not completed. I found old door knobs, rusty and crusty tools, Ball jars filled with nuts and bolts, baling wire, wood chunks and some trinkets. I can't wait to get them all put together and then the creativity will hopefully follow. We won't open the barn until April or May. That seems like a long ways away, but I know we have to get a jump on it! I think I will head to Gilbert, to see Brenda at JBKnacker for some inspiration. Her shop is always a treat. Gotta get, I hear some junk calling me from the basement!

Happy New Year

2010-01-03T16:32:00.000-08:00

Happy New Year! It seems silly to think that just because the calendar changes that we all should make changes too. But, on the other hand, it is a great chance to begin again. So, to this idea, I am not starting over, just getting a re-charge.

Barntiques is looking mighty lonely and cold these days. The snow drifts in the barn yard are the highest we have seen in years. And, the temps are below zero. Hard to get real excited about being out there. Once I get all of the pine cleaned up from the holiday, we will begin our new year in the barn. We have decided to be open the second Saturday of the seasonal months. This gives us time to gather and restore before displaying. We will most likely open in May, but if we get really good weather, we may have to have a select sale in April.

So, I am going to make every effort to write a new chapter here at least once a week and hopefully have some fun projects and photos too!

Happy New Year to all of you and hears to new beginnings!

Saturday is actually the 25th of July.

2009-07-21T09:23:00.000-07:00

It has been pointed out to me that I had written in the previous post the correct day but not the right DATE! I should have written it as Saturday, July 25th. Thank you Gale. I am pulling out some old items and putting out some new fun things. It always amazes me that items that have been in the display for a period of time look inviting to the same customers when they are just moved around or adding a little do-dad. Did I just say do-dad? Oh my, I am getting older! Love to blog more, but the barn is calling me. Maybe we can get our resident photographer to post some new pictures tomorrow. Gotta run!

2009-07-20T12:38:00.000-07:00

One thing at a time...Nice thought, but my OCD never obliges! We are having another sale this Saturday, July 26th. I am beginning to wonder where July has flown to. The weather here in Iowa has been so weird. We had winter, then our wet season, a little warmer, still in the soggy season. There was those 6-8 days of good old Iowa heat that really should have been next months weather, and now, well, we have set all time record LOWS! I would imagine that since we will be open this weekend, we will have monsoons with a touch of snow! Doesn't matter! We will be having a great time in the barn. I had thought of getting one of those cool cd's of nature's sweet sounds, but I already have them out there. And the hint of meowing for the fun of it. Yes, those baby kitties, you remember, the ones from the two BOY cats that we sheltered! Yep, they will be 9 weeks old and ready to go to a new home. They are all so sweet, but really need to go to their new families before they knock anymore items to the floor with their not so cute attempts at gymnastics! JB KNACKER, in Gilbert, will be holding their Breakfast Club this Saturday too. Be sure to start there from 8am-10. Brenda ALWAYS has fun stuff and I think she usually has the coffee pot on. You will also be given a map to some of her fun shopping spots, like us! We will be open from 10-3. So, grab a friend and make it a day! We like to think that our shop is where you go for FuNkY JuNk and JuNkY FuN!

Here's a little tribute

2009-07-07T14:27:00.000-07:00

I have been watching and reading some of the articles on Michael Jackson. I was moved by the memorial service today. My husband has been glued to the tv also. He comes from a family that shared alot of musical talent. He was VERY emotional during the service. When the live coverage ended he had to go to work. So, I didn't really get a chance to talk about it. I was truly worried about his emotional state. He shared that it was scary to have someone our age pass on. He had so much going on, but I don't think he ever really had the chance to just be Michael Jackson. I want to believe that he is with his family and friends that have left this world. One of his brothers shared that he had a twin that was waiting for him. His children were present at the service. I was glad for that. They need to find comfort and closure. Their world has been shuffled so much. I am hoping that they will have the love and support of the Jackson family and there is not a long legal battle for custody.
I am sorry for the loss of his life. He co-wrote the song, "We are the World". There were several things that I want to take away from what I learned about him today. I want to make sure that all of my friends and family know how much they are loved. I am not convinced that I tell them or show how much I really appreciate them. I hope that my grandchildren will have fond memories of me and the silly things we do together. Alot of friends spoke today. They had fond memories and some very passionate statements. The world is a better place for many of Michael Jackson's contributions. I want that to be a legacy of my own too. I don't need the gratification shown, but I do hope I leave this world on a kind and loving note.
Being a breast cancer survivor, I have had the patience to stop and appreciate all of the good things life has brought me. And I am thankful that I am alive and have been given, as they say, a second chance. So, on this note I will bring this to an end and hopefully some of you will take a moment to recall your special times with others.

2009-07-05T10:53:00.000-07:00

I decided today that I really needed to weed out the basement stash. Four or five boxes full of junk and pretty stuff. From Americana to good old rusty tools. Now, I just need to find some muscles to move it. Haven't been able to do much with my immobilization boot. Stitches are out and just onto the rehabilitation. So, junkin downstairs was pretty fun. This week will be the hustle bustle of moving displays, clearing out the basement, and sorting through all of the boxes that people have dropped off. Can't wait to see what all there is. I have been working on some birdhouses, got to junk them up! And the rusty little tin birdhouses tied up with rafia. Too Cute! The bottles that are etched by hand are a great item to color up your garden and they are priced very reasonable. I have also been schmazzing up some denim bags. But, you can be assured that it will all available on Saturday, July 11th from 10-5.
We are really excited to be on JBKnacker's Breakfast Club tour! Saturday, July 25th. JBKnacker is located in Gilbert, just a short drive north of Ames. You are to go there first and take in all of the shop specials. Have a little bite of nourishment and caffeine. Then they provide a map prepared for some extra great shopping spots. They have outside rustic decors, shabbies, lots of ephemera, handmade necklaces with vintage game pieces. If you haven't been there yet, you really must mark your calendars and start your day in Gilbert! Anyway, hope you can stop in here and at JBKnackers. And...if you need any 6 week old kittens, they will be available soon!

Turn down the furnace Mother Nature!

2009-06-23T06:25:00.000-07:00

Hot, hot and hotter today! And...the reason it is hotter today is that we will be OPEN from 4-8. Well, unless the severe storms hit as predicted. The barn is a great place to be in a storm, but it stinks if you can't make a run for it eventually. The rain and hail sound great on the tin roof! There has been cleaning and shaking things up out there. Hope some of you will try to stop by. HOT DEALS for everyone!

Surprise!

2009-06-19T08:51:00.000-07:00

Follow our blog all the way to the bottom and you will see what one of our barn computer techies have accomplished! I knew that whining would work some day. Nope, really, she took the photos AND wanted to share them. Don't know what I would do without good friends. All for today! Enjoy the pix!

2009-06-18T11:31:00.000-07:00

Before I begin this post, I really must say how sorry I am for ignoring the blog. And...to tell all of you that check in on me by one method or another, THANX! Had a little foot surgery that has s-l-o-w-e-d me down, but I am back in the barn again. At least on the main level of the barn.
It seems like it has been forever since I have sat here at the computer. We have had a litter of kittens that will be three weeks old tomorrow. Yep, I was in the recovery room and my dear friend that was running the kitty chores came in and announced that we had a very lovely litter of five. And of course, she had them in the antique carriage. How appropriate! I finally got to see them yesterday and they couldn't be any cuter or wigglier!
Since we are all back on the mend and have adjusted to the summer schedules with swimming lessons, ball games, heat and humidity, I think we should have a little gathering in the barn. Yep, Barntiques will open the stable doors again on Tuesday, June 23rd from 4-8. We are also going to be open on the second Saturday, July 11th from 10-5. I hope we get to see our old friends and meet some new friends. The barn seems so lonely and sad since we haven't been open. But, that is about to change! There is something special about times spent in the barn. Whether it is memories from childhoods or finding a special item to purchase for our own homes, we hope it brightens your day.
I will make every effort to find some newsy little piece to pass on or maybe I will actually make good on my promise of photos. We have taken some great shots, and I just can't seem to figure out how to post them here.
So, for now, I will sign off with great hopes of reuniting and resparking the interest here on the blog and in the barn. Thanx for stopping by either place!

Sitting here in soggy Iowa

2009-06-09T16:54:00.009-07:00

Sitting here in soggy Iowa

2009-06-09T16:54:00.007-07:00

Sitting here in soggy Iowa

2009-06-09T16:54:00.005-07:00

Sitting here in soggy Iowa

2009-06-09T16:54:00.003-07:00

Sitting here in soggy Iowa

2009-06-09T16:54:00.001-07:00

Yikes! Stop the clock!

2009-05-12T15:38:00.000-07:00

Yikes! Why do I always do this? Take on a few other displays, pricing and adding a stairwell to boot? Gotta love what ya do, right? I DO LOVE WHAT I DO! I just think I always need to do more than I really can accomplish. Who doesn't? So, Barntiques will still be in the 'gotta dig for yourself' mode. When I had my flower shop, the front area really was tidy and well kept. Back room was a different story. Flowers, boxes with tissue and newspaper, stems everywhere and then add the water. That was another Yikes! And most of my life has been spent trying to chase the clock. Yes, Barntiques will open Friday at 10 am and the treasures will be amuck. The hay mow has been filled with old high chairs, barn doors, garden items like trellis and planted flower pots, and Americana baskets and trinkets. Mantiques is great fun. Rust, dust and manly. With a few old skelton keys, padlocks, keys and a few miniature locks too. And of course the main room will hopefully have a path. Glassware, vintage kitchen ware, bakelite eating utensils, crocks and I am not really sure what else I may uncover! I do want to remind visitors to bring a packet of flower seeds. We will be planting a flower bed at the Barntiques sign. I think it will be fun to watch the garden and friendships grow. Hope to see you this Friday and Saturday from 10-5.

Clock is ticking

2009-05-09T09:18:00.000-07:00

The clock is ticking and we are hustling! Went garage saling yesterday, nothing great to be found except a big old rusty wheelbarrow. I picked up some petunias and a few little plants, pink of course. Lots to do, but am I having some fun! The banister and handrailers will be coming tomorrow. It really is starting to look like I was hoping for. Just wanted to put in a couple words to REMIND you that we are gonna be havin'some fun next Friday and Saturday. I am hoping that everyone will remember to bring a packet of flower seeds. We are going to put them all together and plant them. I can't wait to watch the seeds grow and turn into beautiful blooms. It will represent all of the friends of Barntiques that visit. You will have to keep coming back to watch the garden and our friendships grow. Gotta get to the barn. Have a blessed Mothers day.

SpRiNg HaS SpRuNg!

2009-05-05T17:09:00.000-07:00

Spring is still SpRiNgiNg at Barntiques! The barn has made a couple of changes. We have taken great consideration and have decided that we will be having sales on the following scheduled dates,(hopefully, I won't forget to include the schedule!) It is so exciting to have a week here and there for gathering and making and displaying and you know, mental health breaks. I am sure that our families would question the "mental health breaks!" They know we are CrAzY for junk and fun. That is why we have said that we have "junky fun and funky junk!" We have also found the staircase that is perfect and feels like it was built in 1938 with the structure. Now the real work begins. Another addition is the upcoming birth of baby kittens. It appears that Junky and Barny are more than friends! What's a barn without cats running around or just draped across a big old overstuffed chair? We have gained another junkin friend at the barn too. Gale and her wonderful hubby, Willie have been VERY instrumental in motivating and donating (hopefully, donating) physical labor to get ready for the opening of the "man-tiques" section of the barn. I will be trying to find out about local sales coming up. I know that this is very helpful in mapping out the junk huntin day(s). Our next sale is May 15th and 16th. Flier to come soon! Other area happenings are JB knacker, www.jbknacker.com, located in Gilbert, Iowa. Vintage Fest will be held May 15/16. More info on that is at www.vintagefest.com. Old Crow Farm, www.oldcrowfarmantiques.com, is located in Winterset, Iowa. All of these events will be great and you won't want to miss any of us! We have a great little area of fun people and good junk! So, here's the dates so far...May 15-16th, June 12-13th (also city wide garage sales) and July 17-18th. Keep checking back for updates on all this fun.

Recent Observations

2009-04-26T06:25:00.000-07:00

Recent observations. #1. City wide clean up that goes directly to the dumpster faster than anyone is allowed to pick it up, SUCKS! #2. Meteorologists get paid whether they predict rain, snow, heat, cold, windy and hot even when they are WRONG! #3. In the last four days, we have had it all except snow. #4. Iowans look forward to spring. #5. The farmers started planting their crops this week. #6. Junkers are junkers are junkers! #7. Spring brings the hope of warmer weather and outside gatherings! #8. Temperatures on Friday hit the mid 80's. #9 The high yesterday was the lowest of the lows all week. #10. The old wives tail of If it rains on Easter Sunday it will rain for the next six Sundays. #11. Old wives are damned smart, because it is off to that start! #12. I cried at many of the memories shared yesterday out in the barn. #13. (Which is one of my LUCKY numbers,) I found out that the email that I sent (well, thought I sent) didn't reach anyone. #14. I need to become literate with this machine of many uses! #15.I have great friends that helped me get ready for and run the sale. #16. I also have great friends here in junkland, like JBKnacker is Gilbert, Iowa and Old Crow Farm in rural Winterset, Iowa. #17. Our youngest (in utero) grandbaby is strong and sleeps on its little tummy and will make an arrival in early October. #18. I have hours of work this week opening up the 2nd door of the barn to what I like to call "mantiques". #19. We are getting a bit used to the whole "empty nest" syndrome. #20. If you want a job, with a paycheck no matter what your performance, go to meteorologist school!

Come see us at the Barn!

2009-04-19T13:09:00.000-07:00

HOT OFF THE PRESSES! THIS JUST IN! SOURCES HAVE REPORTED THAT BARNTIQUES, THE PLACE WELL KNOWN FOR "FUNKY JUNK AND JUNKY FUN", WILL OPEN THE DOORS ON SATURDAY, APRIL 25TH AT 10:00 AM! ACCORDING TO OUR CRACK TEAM OF INVESTIGATORS, YOU CAN ONCE AGAIN COUNT ON UNIQUES, ANTIQUES, MANTIQUES(is this really a word?), SHABBY CHIC, ROMANTIQUES AND MUCH MORE! AN INTERVIEW, WITH PHOTOS SHOULD BE AVAILABLE ON WEDNESDAY EVENING. BARNTIQUES IS LOCATED ON THE SUNNY, NORTHWEST CORNER OF PICTURESQUE NEVADA, IOWA. ADDRESS IS 2000 5TH STREET. THE BARN-GIRLS CAN BE CONTACTED AT JUNKINATBARNTIQUES@YAHOO.COM. DON'T MISS OUT ON ALL OF THE FUN!
All fun and silliness aside, we are located 8 miles east of Ames. If coming in on highway 30, take the main entrance (yes, marked by the glorious wastewater treatment plant!). This will take you across the railroad tracks, through the booming mainstreet business area. Continue through town through the 4way stoplight, past John Deere, another set of rairoad tracks to the end of the street. This will be "T" avenue. Go left,(west)one block. This street ends at our driveway. Hopefully you will be able to find it by following the traffic. Pull on in and we are located in the big white barn. It is going to be a warm, sunny, bright day and we have been waiting for this since November! Grab a friend or six and let's see ya at the barn!

No Reason for This

2009-04-05T09:30:00.000-07:00

I am sitting on the computer trying to make sense of our weather. I know, I live in Iowa and it is ONLY April. The crocus and daffodil are blooming. The tulips and iris are poking out of the ground. Robins have been able to feast on worms. Families have started to venture out on walks with the dogs and kids. It really is great to see the change of season. UNTIL TODAY! Blizzard warnings have been posted, roads treacherous, churches across the state have been cancelled and I just walked through a 3 foot drift to get to the barn to feed Barnie and Junkie. There is just no reason for this!
My basement is a shamble as I have been starting and delaying several projects. I have a bunch of ideas and enough supplies to decorate half of Iowa. The sewing machine has been staring at me for weeks. And...as you guessed it, there's no reason for this!
Did I mention that I have a touch of procrastination? Ok! More than a touch!
My husband gave me a really cool camera. And all of the works to put it on my blog. I have attempted that but my ADHD kicks in and I jump to something (or nothing) else. Once again, there is no reason for this.
I will make a promise to all of my faithful followers (and I mean every 8 of you)that I will be posting more often and begging someone to show (I am a visual kind of girl)me how to post photos.
My sidekick, Sheri is back from her spring break (sounds like she is in college-huh?). And we really have to get moving so we can open up the barn with all kinds of fun new projects! She has such a great eye for fabric. I know that she has been making aprons out of vintage material. To die for! I have seen some of her sewing skills up close and personal! I am the owner of two great bags that she has made. Hopefully we will have some of those in the barn. She also has something in her head that has to do with vintage handkerchiefs.
And, why haven't we accomplished what we were going to do all winter? Yep, there is just no reason for this.
Check back in a few days, the snow will hopefully be gone and the warmer temps will help us all get into the season of change!

Rain, rain go away!

2009-03-24T04:54:00.000-07:00

Rain, rain go away! Oh wait a minute, it is March and the temps have been hovering 60. What was I thinking? It could be snow! But, that is in the forecast towards the end of the week. Go figure. We are going to our grandson's house in northwest Iowa. Yes, I realize that this region is the first to get snow and the last to have snow! As a grandparent, little blizzard won't stop us. And...I can still detect burn piles through the snow. As I have stated before, burn piles should be outlawed until inspected by a junker!
We have a new addition to the barn. Two precious, furry, purring kittens. They are about 4 months old. Been raised in the garage with about 30 other strays. Barney and Junky have taken to us very well, of course we are the ones that have food! I always crack my husband up when I say, "but, honey, they are free!" And unfortunately I also have to hear him say "there's no such thing as FREE!" (speaking only of animals of course!) And, naturally, Barney is a typical male and wants to stay in the elite club of males always being right! Yep, second day, a little matter appears in his left eye. No problem, wipe it out right? Third day, little more GREEN yuck and eye is swollen. GREAT! Next day, still some green stuff and the eye is completely closed. Did I mention that I had to crawl, climb and do the worm dance to reach him? I made the treacherous venture of the mounds of my JUNK to get to him and he just layed there. Now I know that he is sick if he is not running away. Bad sign. It is now Friday at 5:45 pm. Vet closes at 5:30. My daughter is standing next to me and we are ready to start our ugly cry. Pulled out my Feline First Aid Kit, consisting of what the hell am I going to do list of questions and answers. Did I mention that Mary Ann was standing next to me, expecting a great potus to appear or to hug the booboo away? The heat was on and I was sweating profusely! Warm paper towel packs and LOTS of attention and I think we may be on the right track. He is peppier and has his purr machine up and running. Hopefully I can delay the opportunity of hearing "there's no such thing as free", unless it is junk! I will go check them in just a few minutes. I am hoping that the next chapter will be how they are playing with the customers and helping them load lots of goodies into their trucks!
Back to the rain situation. It has forced the inside tasks to be tackled. I got a bunch of lovely pint milk jars, some of them with the Borden logo printed on both sides. And more Ball jars. In my world there is never enough Ball jars. I use them for everything. I have also randomly gathered quite a few enamel bowls and pans. Red and black trim. Some more garden surprises too! I think I will leave you with those items to ponder and will go out and dig a bit in the garage.
I have been told that it has been difficult to leave messages. I think I have figured it all out. HOPEFULLY! I love hearing from everyone, so sorry this has been an inconvienance.

2009-03-18T04:09:00.000-07:00

GIVE ME A "S"! GIVE ME A "P"! GIVE ME A "R"! GIVE ME AN "I"! GIVE ME A "N"! AND GIVE ME A "G"! WHAT'S IT SPELL? SPRING!!! Wish I had pom-poms, it would have made it more convincing. You get the point. We have been blessed with some normal spring days and could'nt be more happy. I journeyed out to the barn and opened up the doors to let the sunshine in. I was so excited that I started to move a few things around and get a path that only I could weave through in the dark. The males in my family have not been forthcoming with any permanent electricity so it really is a task to work out there. I would have thought since I melted the outlet on the house and ruined a drop cord or three that SOMEONE would realize I need a little help in this area. So, today, I will be dragging another cord out there and plugging in a few lights. How was I to know that since there were still places to plug in extension cords, it was unsafe? One of our family friends home is sitting empty and I was drawn by a mysterical force to the back shed. Hey, the house is going up on the block, sitting empty for months, and it was my godparents. So, why would I disappoint them, by ignoring this force. I casually walked over there. And, then, reality took over and I was on a junk hunt! There were a few items left out in the yard so I made a little pile by the garage. I mosied (is mosy a word?) back to the old work shop, opened the door and inside waiting for me was HEAVEN! Once again, I was peering in the dark as it too has no electricity, but what I saw was great. To list a few of the treasures, solid brick pavers that have raised lettering, a cement bird bath (never knew they were THAT heavy), old rakes and brooms, an animal trap, old bottles ranging in sizes of 4 oz to one gallonand a white wooden trellis (with the paint chipped off). Turned around and there it was. A wooden storage cupboard, showing the many colors it had been painted through the years.(I have since found out it had been part of the kitchen of the house that was torn down at least 50 years ago). Naturally it was attached to the walls, so this was going to take a little more effort! I started lookng for a way to get the cupboard down. Found an old shovel and started to pry it off the wall. At this point in time, there was a little (it seemed big at the time)gray mouse. Our eyes were about the same size as we both scattered. I couldn't get out of the shed fast enough! I went one way and I have no idea which way he went. Once I got over the heart palpitations, I peered inside. No sign of him. Back to work with the shovel to pry the cupboard off the wall. Two more forces of my mighty strength (yeah, right, it was still adrenaline) and the cupboard was off and it was good to go. I am really excited with the piece. I think I will leave it chippy and in it's beautiful state. After one more life changing encounter with the little gray guy, I brought my treasures home and got on line for some good mousers! I am picking up a couple of outside kitties this afternoon. It was a GREAT day and I am so thankful it is finally SPRING! Hope you put us on the map for your junkin days and stop by to play with the new kitties.

2009-03-13T03:02:00.000-07:00

We had been enjoying some fabulous spring weather. Record temps here in Iowa and we WERE loving it. Just in time for our Let's Pretend it's Spring Sale, the winds changed, the rain moved in, the mud came with it, the temps plummetted, BUT, it was Spring inside! The tables were filled with springy grasses, tulips, eggs, spring caramels and LOTS of funky junk. And of course we had junky fun! We sold skads (Is scads a word?) of skeleton keys,dog tags, windows, vases, kitchen (vintage of course) utensils, garden statues, depression glass, chenille bedspreads, antique chicken feeders and some architectural items. WhEw! It was a great sale and what was even more fun was meeting lots of different people! I think about 90% of the sales were to people that had never been here before. Sheri and I got to meet JoJo and her darling baby girl. She and her husband have Old Crow Farm. JoJo has a great personality and we are looking forward to go to their old barn. Their first sale of the year is May 16-17th. We sent and received customers from JBKnacker in Gilbert. Brenda has been so supportive in working events together. Women love to jump from shop to shop!
We are very excited to get out into the barn and start cleaning and putting up new displays and vignettes! We have some antique floor lamps to start the new season off with. Alongside, vintage aprons, a great little childrens area with world globes, folding chairs, books, high chair, solid wood cradle, baby stroller, vintage games and additional game pcs., green depression glass and so many more items. You know I can't list them all because it would spoil the fun on opening weekend. But, you can bet there will be something for everyone. AND...I am meeting with a new designer. Her specialty is glass etching. Keep an eye out as they will be appearing in the yard as teasers! She is a crazy lady that is going to add so much to the garden areas. We are looking to open mid to late April, depending on Mother Nature. I unloaded lots of stuff yesterday and my hands were almost numb because of the cold and dampness. Where is Spring?
Gotta go! I guess since I am up I should enjoy every minute of this Friday the 13th!

Friday the 13th

2009-03-13T02:29:00.000-07:00

It is 4:30am. My 82 y/o dad was not feeling well, so he called at 2:30. We scrambled for a phone, knocked it off the table and it fell into God only knows what under our bed. I announced the time and exclaimed, "oh no, this means something dead, or they are gonna be!" Got up and grabbed the phone and it was dad. He lives alone, one block away from us. He was upset and thought he was having a heart issue. He had a heart attack and double bypass surgery on Friday the 13th, 21 years ago. He had a pacemaker put in last summer. Being the good (some would argue) daughter, I grabbed my medical bag and headed down there. I think he was in a little pain (although not heart related). After sitting with him for a bit, took his blood pressure, checked his pulse, felt his head, got him some meds (that's a whole nother post or six), got him into bed, with the heating pad and he settled down. I came home, tried to go back to sleep and here I am sitting at the computer!
Today would have been my moms 80th birthday. She was born on a Friday the 13th and married on a Friday the 13th. I have always had good luck on her day. She has been gone for 21 years. I miss her still and especially today. We lost her to a heart ailment when she was 58. She always told us that "there's alot of things worse than death." I do understand this theory. In honoring moms birthday, I have always tried to do something that she would have thought sweet. I have bought carnations and given them all to her friends with a card. The card was plain on the inside and I wrote a note about some funny thing they had done together or how she loved them. One year I took some of them for lunch. This year is different. There are very few of her friends alive now. They are in nursing homes or in bad health. I saw her brother (my Uncle Roger) the other day. He is younger than she. He did not know I was there. He has become even shorter than he was and staggered with pain as he walked. I am not sure how mom would have looked on her 80th birthday and I wish she were here. Hell, I wish she were here everyday! But, I would never wish her any more pain. And to this day I will honor her in a special way.

Let's Pretend it's Spring! Sale!

2009-02-28T08:17:00.000-08:00

I can't believe the many items I already have displayed for the sale. And...I am going to be bringing more on Monday. We generally have the sales outside,but we have opted for warmth and coziness. There are vintage aprons, primitive oil lamps, globes and we haven't even packed up the china hutch, basement or attic. The path that my husband has strongly urged to remain clear has diminished in size. We have even made overnite reservations at our dear neighbor Pearl's house!
Barntiques is always happy to meet new friends. But our old (not the age of the owners)friends at JB Knacker in Gilbert are also throwing out the welcome mat for all of your shopping pleasures. You need to check out her great website and blog, jbknacker.blogspot.com. If you have ever been there and for you that have not visited, the shop is actually a two story house. They have a fabulous array of items. She often offers classes. The jewelry soldering class has been my favorite. It is great to have the opportunity to get together and throw some ideas around the round table! Brenda is a great person to work with and I really admire her knowlege and experience. She has mentioned forming a Guild and I think that sounds very inticing! I am sure we will have to don our vintage hats and broaches while sipping tea out of beautiful china tea cups. We will have sale fliers here at our house and at JB Knacker!
There are some old camping chairs calling my name. No, not to sit in, but to get priced and displayed! Yes, the old windows and garden decors is hollering from the yard, so here's to a great Saturday to you all. I will keep you posted with updates. Thanx for stopping by. Please let me know you were here, as a new blogger, it really is exciting to see who all has been by. For now, Let's Pretend it's Spring!

Let's pretend that it is SPRING!

2009-02-20T06:27:00.000-08:00

Living here in the middle of Iowa, with forecasts of MORE snow makes one a bit crazy. We need to see and hear the birds. I have not even seen a robin yet. There are still piles of snow, smaller than two weeks ago when we had a tease of 60 degrees. I really want to see the grass greening up, the daffodils and hyacinth peeking up through the ground. SO, I have decided that I am going to pretend that it is SPRING! I know that we many of us are visual people, and I promise to get photos up and going this weekend. That is my goal! I have decided to have a PRETEND IT IS SPRING sale. I have been gathering and I can't wait to see people go through bins of vintage aprons, linens, 1947 Pioneer corn seed sacks. I am sure excited about the vingtage (what am I talking about-they are the games I played!) board games, antique wooden cradle, brass baby doll bed,marble top tables, lots of windows, large screens from a house built in the late 1900's, lots of ephemera, loads of old kitchen tools and a whole lot of junky fun. The actual sale is Saturday, March 7th from 9-5 at my acreage. Too cold in the barn, so we will be inside the house. I have evicted the child day care for two weeks so I don't have the helpers rearanging my displays. And in mentioning all of the items and more, I may have to move out too! My acreage is at 2000 5th street, Nevada, Iowa. I PROMISE to keep you updated on items and fun! Stop by and see our funky junk and junky fun! I hope you will take time and let me know you stopped by the blog! I would ask that you include your email address or blog. I don't know how to contact some of you by just leaving a post. Thanx alot for checking us out! What! OOOPS! I think I hear a bird chirping in the tree!

2009-02-11T11:21:00.000-08:00

I tried, but I just couldn't let my LEAST favorite day of the year go by without venting! I can hardly type the occassion without letting out a deep groan and a mean scowl across my forehead. I have always felt that this is the one occassion that is sooo over rated! I worked in the floral industry for many years and we even owned a popular shop in our hometown. Most customers think that the event was conjured up by some bored card making, flower poking, chocolatiers, that needed to rack up some sales between Christmas and Mothers Day! And if I would have been able to cancel it, I would have! It was the costliest, least profitable event. The prices of roses were at a premium, staffing the design room a sheer headache, scheduling the delivery trucks, and this was in the days before credit cards, so then the billing and the blah, blah, blah. Wow! That felt good to release all of that negative energy! Anyway, now I get to make fun stuff out of old junk, have little overhead, make people smile and no one has to pay an arm or a leg. (Maybe a table leg!) Little did I know then, that there are alot of people lovin the rusty junk as much as I did! That is really the point I have been trying to get to. We have all heard that the economy has had the bottom ripped out, chewed up and spit out. But, through it all, finding ways to say or show that you love someone or appreciate friends and family does not have to have a dollar amount. In fact, some of the best gifts that we get, are giving our own love to others. Forget the 110 million red roses that will be sold in a three day period, the 1330 different selections of greeting cards, or the eight BILLION conversation hearts sold between January 15th thru the 14th of February. Even at a very young age I always knew that I was loved. And, I also knew that some people were loved but weren't told or shown. Call it peer pressure, but I did not know how many people bought and sent themselves roses. All in the name of St. Valentine. The important thing to do is let others know that they are loved. And if you happen to show it with a little rusty, chippy, shabby or junky treasure, it will make your own heart glow! Lastly, I want to express the appreciation I have for all of you fellow bloggers, readers or stumblers. You are all loved.

The girls at the table

2009-02-01T12:21:00.000-08:00

Last week, we had what I think should be called "A Roundtable". No, I am not talking about a round table. I am referring to a little session of 'come on over to my house, let me throw some junk on the table and let's just see what we come up with. My sidekick Sheri, Brenda from JBKnackers and her sweet baby Cecelia, and a fellow friend and customer, Amy were here. We had a great time of getting an idea and building off of it. We took apart a few things and wiggled 'em around. There were alot of ideas and a few head scratchers. The cinnamon tea was flowing and we were so busy talking that I forgot to get out the little nibbley things. The conversation moved quickly from old keys, pearls, bed springs, vintage Valentines, cooing at precious Cecelia to filling little glass bottles, ephemera, old storm windows and clothes pins. I have had time to ponder the roundtable. I would say that each of us added to every conversation. Some of the ideas were no brainers that made at least one of us crack up! It is very evident that no two heads think alike. And, that two heads are better than one. I have entirely too much stuff! We all are looking forward to spring. Each of us admitted to having the most understanding if not just plain tolerable husbands. Today, as I sat down to write this entry, I figured out one more thing. We don't have to work at creating the newest idea using the oldest of items that will rock the trash to treasure world! We only have to surround ourselves with friends, old stuff that bring back good memories and the chance to be comfortable. So, here's hoping that you have a roundtable of your own real soon. And, when you do, share it with us.

Living the Dream

2009-01-19T12:19:00.000-08:00

From my earliest memories I remember my mom working the polls at the election. She was born red, white and blue. And she was one of those democrats that liked to share her political views. She put signs in the yard, collected all of the political buttons and wore them too. She loved adding to her donkey collection and showing them off to her republican friends. Her political views were passed to each of her children. We passed this down to our children and to her honor the tradition is continuing. My four year old great niece even pretends that she is Michelle Obama. How adorable to see Nyla put her hand on her hip, flip her two big old foofy hair poofs and say with quite a diva attitude "Hello, my name is Michelle Obama and you should vote for my husband, so... we can start calling him President Obama!" This was spoken so eloquently from the pretend podium. My mom would have eaten up every precious moment with her grands and great grands. That brings me to the real meat of this message. WE ARE LIVING THE DREAM! I have not been able to pull myself from CNN with the coverage of Martin Luther King Jr Day and the inauguration of Barack Obama. We are living out the dream! The dream of equal rights of all Americans. The backs of the buses are not reserved for anyone anymore. We all drink out of the same water faucet. Public education is exactly that. It is for everyone. And the list goes on. Unfortunately, I take alot of these rights and issues for granted. You see, I am blessed to say that I have great nieces and nephews on both sides of our family that are African American. We have been privileged to have several African American children in our home for day care. One day, my oldest great niece asked "what color is my new baby sister going to be?" That knocked me back a few steps, not really knowing the answer that her parents would approve of. We talked a while and she and I came up with cinnamon toast. My mom passed away twenty years ago. She never knew how her political views would transcend into the future. She did not get to live out her dream. Frequently we feel her presence and I smirk or get a tear in my eye. Now I remember why she loved cinnamon toast. We will continue celebrating this historic time and hope everyone is living their dream.

You know it is C-O-L-D when...

2009-01-15T13:18:00.000-08:00

...junkin nite gets cancelled due to weather. We have not had school for three days. Snow, blizzard conditions and below zero temps. It takes alot for us to postpone a junkin journey! Remember it was in my own basement. Three of the junkers live out of town. Rural driving can be so dangerous. Some roads are not primary and do not see the snowplow for a couple of days. And this, an old 1938 house with block walls and a cement floor. The frost was really bad around the windows and it was chilly down there. The junker of the evening was me. And the junkees will be over next week. But, I can tell you a few of the items I thought would be a big hit. Lots of miniature padlocks, tags, vintage jewelry, wooden ballisters, a couple of old green window screens, little bottles, ribbon, skeleton keys and gemstones to mention a few.
I did get my holiday tree decorated. It is a 6 foot pencil tree. Clear and red lights. Three wooden plaques, hope, love and peace. Snowflakes, country wooden hearts with little buttons and some tin snowflakes.
The seasonal array of vintage Valentines from 1927, lace and doilies will be out and displayed tomorrow. Better get to work. The grunging jar is calling me.

Goin Junkin!

2009-01-13T14:56:00.000-08:00

Oh boy! I am goin junkin tomorrow nite. We are having below zero temps, more snow and I just need a good junkin night! I have invited Brenda (quirky kind of gal) from jbknackerblogspot.com, a fun girl that has a sign company and my crazy sidekick, Sheri. Sheri is a fun, good hearted woman with deep spiritual faith. She can talk about ANYTHING! More about that in another blog (always gotta look forward to the next blog). Back to the junkin night. Did I mention that this trip will be in my basement? I am wondering if that is a sign of a true junker or should I be embarrassed? It truelly is a junkers delight. So, we are going to the basement, find anything we want in a short period of time and head back upstairs to put it to good use. I will have to figure out the whole picture thing so I can show you what we have created! I am going to close out with my mantra of Every piece of junk is someone's memory. Think about it and I am sure you will understand where I am coming from!

Let me introduce myself some more

2009-01-11T15:12:00.000-08:00

I have just celebrated my 49th birthday! I also celebrated the 2nd anniversary of breast cancer survivorship. My co-survivor is my husband of 30 years. We are high school sweethearts, graduated (walked together in graduation ceremonies) in 1978. Vern served 10 years in the US Navy. Yes, we were married at 18 years old. He was stationed on the east coast. During that time we had two children. Michael is 29. He and his wife, Courtnie have two boys. Easton is 5 and Emmitt is 3. Now I know why I thought my mom was a freak carrying around photo albums of the grandkids. I am now the freak. Although, I have a pocket video frame. There will be plenty of stories about the EE's! Our daughter, Mary Ann 26, lives with us. She provides child care. I have a niece, Addie that means the world to me. She and her husband, Dwight have Nyla 4, and Jabari is 2. My dad is 82 and lives one block from us. And I can guarantee there will be stories about him! Vern works for 3M. Hopefully he will be able to continue through this rough road that we are all on. Me, I am pretty much a Jill of all trades and master of a few. More on that in another post. That pretty much is the run down on our little family. Our EXTENDED family is ever growing and so loved and appreciated. In blogging, I hope to show some great photos of befores and afters of the junkin trade. I absofrickinglutely am a collector of wwwaaayyyyy too many things. I come by it naturally from my dad. He has many collections! Once we get the hang of this blogging thing, I will show you what I mean. I am sure I will be at this again as we prepare for blizzard conditions tonight and tomorrow!

A Time for Change, I hope!

2009-01-11T10:48:00.000-08:00

Whoa! With support from my husband and encouragement from friends I have entered into the world of blogging. I find myself talking out loud to the dogs or anyone that may listen. So, I figured that blogging would be the right thing to do! I am not one that discusses religion, politics or money. Those three subjects are squeezing into my comfort zone. But, I have taken to them lately. I voted for Barack Obama. I support the time for change. And I support him. I love to listen to him speak. I feel like he is talking right to me. And, I love that! I am excited to see a typical family in the White House. And...I am really excited to find out what kind of dog will be honored to be the "first dog!" I feel like there are enough of us supporters to actually make changes. I am making little changes. I am trying to figure out my new camera, video frame and little pocket video frame. Another change is that I am going to start making healthier decisions. Oh! I can't believe I am putting that into print. Now it is official. I will continue to pay it forward as I do believe in it. So, thanx for reading and hopefully I will make this blogging event fun and interesting to everyone.