We had so much snow on Monday that I thought what better day to pot some of my bulbs that I just got at Walmart. I had some decorative angel vessels that I knew would look really good with the flowers in there. I was right. They were a perfect fit. I also needed to plant a few flea market finds with plants for the class that I am teaching at Gardenfest on April 11 at McHenry County College in Crystal Lake on Flea Market Gardening. I had an enamel colander and a strainer that worked really well as a planter. Hopefully the hyacinths and tulips will bloom in time for the class.
I visited a really neat resale store in Oregon IL called Rock River Resale. It's at 404 W. Washington. They have a great assortment of treasures that are priced from really inexpensive to a little much. But, there is definitely something for everyone. Of course Austin didn't want to go in. He was a little tired from all of my treasure hunting. But, of course, he was the one who found the treasures.
Happy treasure hunting!
Wednesday, March 25, 2015
Friday, March 20, 2015
Garden Finds
Happy Spring!
Spring started for me the other day when I found these wonderful garden treasures. The rusty patina and chippy paint made them even more awesome. I don't always come across white wrought iron pieces, so I grabbed them. So lovely to look at. They will be great in the garden. Hopefully the weather will cooperate so I can finish cleaning up the gardens today.
There are a few estate sales this weekend. On March 26 starting at 5pm is the Methodist Church rummage sale on Crystal Lake Avenue in Crystal Lake.
Happy treasure hunting!
Spring started for me the other day when I found these wonderful garden treasures. The rusty patina and chippy paint made them even more awesome. I don't always come across white wrought iron pieces, so I grabbed them. So lovely to look at. They will be great in the garden. Hopefully the weather will cooperate so I can finish cleaning up the gardens today.
There are a few estate sales this weekend. On March 26 starting at 5pm is the Methodist Church rummage sale on Crystal Lake Avenue in Crystal Lake.
Happy treasure hunting!
Tuesday, March 17, 2015
Cleaning Up the Gardens
Even though today was considerably colder (only around 44 degrees), I still wanted to get outside to work more on cleaning up my gardens. It always feels so good to be outside after staying in all winter. The housework can wait for another day!
I worked on raking the leaves out of 2 more beds. I like to keep the leaves as a groundcover to protect the plants in the winter and I don't deadhead any of the plants until in the spring when I do my cleanup. It was so nice to see the tulips, hyacinths and crocuses peaking out of the ground. It's well work the hard work of raking when these surprises are waiting.
The front door area still needs a little tweaking, but for now I'm leaving it. I added the word "GROW" and love how it plays off the coming of spring. We all need a little humor after a long winter.
Only 2 more garden beds to cleanup. I'm going to have the boys help me with working on the raised beds. I'm going to add more soil to them and would like to plant mostly swiss chard and kohlrabi in them. Last year the swiss chard grew so large and beautiful and then the deer ate them. I'll fool them this year and put it behind a fence.
I'll be out tomorrow treasure hunting. Hope you can too!
I worked on raking the leaves out of 2 more beds. I like to keep the leaves as a groundcover to protect the plants in the winter and I don't deadhead any of the plants until in the spring when I do my cleanup. It was so nice to see the tulips, hyacinths and crocuses peaking out of the ground. It's well work the hard work of raking when these surprises are waiting.
The front door area still needs a little tweaking, but for now I'm leaving it. I added the word "GROW" and love how it plays off the coming of spring. We all need a little humor after a long winter.
Only 2 more garden beds to cleanup. I'm going to have the boys help me with working on the raised beds. I'm going to add more soil to them and would like to plant mostly swiss chard and kohlrabi in them. Last year the swiss chard grew so large and beautiful and then the deer ate them. I'll fool them this year and put it behind a fence.
I'll be out tomorrow treasure hunting. Hope you can too!
Monday, March 16, 2015
Vintage Crates
I was so happy to be out in the wonderful weather this past week. Even today was beautiful. I took advantage and started to clean up my gardens. I'm a little out of shape and my body is a little sore now, but, boy do I feel good. I accomplished a lot and even put out some of my garden ornaments. Spring is definitely on its way even though tomorrow is supposed to get really cold again. I can handle the cold now since I've had a small dose of warmth and sunshine.
On Friday, I stopped at a few sales and was very happy to find some vintage Pepsi crates. They were really wonderful. I also found a vintage bottle crate from Boylan Bottling Company in Paterson NJ. Since I'm from Jersey, I'm going to keep it to use in Ethan's room as a shelf for his turtle collection. I hope to get to it soon after I finish with outside cleanup. I put the Pepsi crates in Carriage House and am using them to hold vintage treasures. It looks really nice.
I was busy restocking my shelves at Carriage House. I always love to see what I have put away to sell at a later time. It's like Christmas every day! Pretty soon I'll be taking over garden items. I'm still working on that. I hope to get those treasures in the store by Sunday.
There is a flea market in Wheaton at the DuPage Fairgrounds on Sunday. I have never been to it before so maybe I'll take a ride over.
Happy treasure hunting!
On Friday, I stopped at a few sales and was very happy to find some vintage Pepsi crates. They were really wonderful. I also found a vintage bottle crate from Boylan Bottling Company in Paterson NJ. Since I'm from Jersey, I'm going to keep it to use in Ethan's room as a shelf for his turtle collection. I hope to get to it soon after I finish with outside cleanup. I put the Pepsi crates in Carriage House and am using them to hold vintage treasures. It looks really nice.
I was busy restocking my shelves at Carriage House. I always love to see what I have put away to sell at a later time. It's like Christmas every day! Pretty soon I'll be taking over garden items. I'm still working on that. I hope to get those treasures in the store by Sunday.
There is a flea market in Wheaton at the DuPage Fairgrounds on Sunday. I have never been to it before so maybe I'll take a ride over.
Happy treasure hunting!
Tuesday, March 10, 2015
Sales are Starting
The Vintage Shop Hop went so well this past Friday and Saturday. I hope you all had fun and thank you to those who came and shopped at the Carriage House in Crystal Lake. We had so much fun doing it. The weather was cooperative so many people were out and about.
On Sunday, I went to a sale at Elgin High School. This was its 42nd year. I went for the first time. It was sooooo much fun. Over 200 booths with vintage, antique, new and more. I found the most adorable handmade plastic Easter eggs. I had to buy them. The picture doesn't do them any justice. I also found a wonderful 25th anniversary framed basket and a vintage photo album filled with newspaper clippings, recipes, pictures etc. I don't know which item I like more.
We also went to the Algonquin Library book sale on Friday and found some good books on gardening and knitting. The prices are always great. The next sale dates are: July 9-12 and November 12-15.
I found out about 2 sales. The spring garden show at Antiques of Winfield at 27W461 Beecher, Winfield IL April 25-26 from 10-5. I have never been to this one, but it looks like fun. The other sale is a new one this year at: 22029-22049 N. Pepper Road in Lake Barrington on May 9th from 9-5. It's a spring market with 9 Barrington area shops hosting it. Another sale that looks like fun.
Remember that this Thursday, March 12th, are 2 church rummage sales. One in Prairie Grove on Rte 176 and the other in Cary at the Methodist Church on 1st Street.
Happy treasure hunting!
On Sunday, I went to a sale at Elgin High School. This was its 42nd year. I went for the first time. It was sooooo much fun. Over 200 booths with vintage, antique, new and more. I found the most adorable handmade plastic Easter eggs. I had to buy them. The picture doesn't do them any justice. I also found a wonderful 25th anniversary framed basket and a vintage photo album filled with newspaper clippings, recipes, pictures etc. I don't know which item I like more.
We also went to the Algonquin Library book sale on Friday and found some good books on gardening and knitting. The prices are always great. The next sale dates are: July 9-12 and November 12-15.
I found out about 2 sales. The spring garden show at Antiques of Winfield at 27W461 Beecher, Winfield IL April 25-26 from 10-5. I have never been to this one, but it looks like fun. The other sale is a new one this year at: 22029-22049 N. Pepper Road in Lake Barrington on May 9th from 9-5. It's a spring market with 9 Barrington area shops hosting it. Another sale that looks like fun.
Remember that this Thursday, March 12th, are 2 church rummage sales. One in Prairie Grove on Rte 176 and the other in Cary at the Methodist Church on 1st Street.
Happy treasure hunting!
Wednesday, March 4, 2015
It's Almost Here!
Spring is coming (I hope) soon. I'm starting to get the winter blues. At least the Vintage Shop Hop will be on Friday and Saturday. In case you haven't heard, its over 200 vintage shops from IL and WI that are participating. All of the details are on Facebook at Vintage Shop Hop. It will be loads of fun. Treasure hunting always is. Carriage House Antiques is ready for the day with 10% off the whole store and linens and framed pictures are still 20% off. I will be there on Friday so stop by and say "hi".
Thursday March 12th is the church rummage sale in Prairie Grove on Route 176 starting at 9am and then at 11am in Cary is the Methodist Church rummage sale on 1st Street. Yeah!!!!!! The season is beginning.
For the first time in about 10 years, I went to the Kane County Flea Market this past weekend. I had stopped going because there was so much new junk. I had heard it had changed so I wanted to see for myself. There was a nice variety of vendors there and I had a good time. I would like to go back when the weather is warmer and the dealers are outside.
Happy treasure hunting!
Thursday March 12th is the church rummage sale in Prairie Grove on Route 176 starting at 9am and then at 11am in Cary is the Methodist Church rummage sale on 1st Street. Yeah!!!!!! The season is beginning.
For the first time in about 10 years, I went to the Kane County Flea Market this past weekend. I had stopped going because there was so much new junk. I had heard it had changed so I wanted to see for myself. There was a nice variety of vendors there and I had a good time. I would like to go back when the weather is warmer and the dealers are outside.
Happy treasure hunting!
Wednesday, February 18, 2015
Braving the Cold for.....Vintage Linens
I braved the cold today since I wasn't sure if I would be venturing out tomorrow with a high forecasted at 2 degrees. With it being around 8 degrees today, I thought it was warm enough.
I'm glad that I did. I visited a few of my favorite places and found loads of vintage treasures and like vintage treasures. My trunk was full! A large white birdcage came home with me. It is just darling with flowers wrapped into it. Today seemed to have a garden theme which made me wishful for spring. At least I can have spring in my house for now.
One of my favorite places to treasure hunt is at the Sparrows Nest. Today I stopped in at the one in Cary and was in heaven. Every February, vintage linens of all kinds are put out for sale washed and ironed. They have an amazing assortment right now. I found sooooo many wonderful pieces. I just have to keep a few of them for my own collection. (Maybe all of them.) I did leave a lot of them for others to buy. I also found a navy blue vintage leather Coach cross body purse. I wanted a cross body bag to use when I go treasure hunting so both hands are free to pick up treasures. This one was perfect.
Stay warm while treasure hunting and have fun!
I'm glad that I did. I visited a few of my favorite places and found loads of vintage treasures and like vintage treasures. My trunk was full! A large white birdcage came home with me. It is just darling with flowers wrapped into it. Today seemed to have a garden theme which made me wishful for spring. At least I can have spring in my house for now.
One of my favorite places to treasure hunt is at the Sparrows Nest. Today I stopped in at the one in Cary and was in heaven. Every February, vintage linens of all kinds are put out for sale washed and ironed. They have an amazing assortment right now. I found sooooo many wonderful pieces. I just have to keep a few of them for my own collection. (Maybe all of them.) I did leave a lot of them for others to buy. I also found a navy blue vintage leather Coach cross body purse. I wanted a cross body bag to use when I go treasure hunting so both hands are free to pick up treasures. This one was perfect.
Stay warm while treasure hunting and have fun!
Tuesday, February 17, 2015
Just a Few Things.....
I always love finding vintage Christmas treasures. I look for them all through the year. What a surprise it was to find a load of them the other day. I had seen the sign for a moving sale on Thursday night when Austin and I were out. So, on Friday I decided to see what it was all about. The sale had started on Wednesday so I didn't think there would be much left. How wrong I was! The back room in the basement had boxes full of vintage Christmas. My trunk was filled when I left. I found 14 boxes of Shiny Brite ornaments, a vintage Nativity scene and many other figure ornaments. I couldn't believe it. The man said that no one had even looked at the Christmas items until Friday. I'm glad I got there early. Usually once a season of looking for treasures, I stumble upon something like this. I'm still going through the boxes. They are so lovely.
After that I thought I should keep going and I found another sale. Behind some other items, I spotted a giant pig that happened to be a bank. Too cute not to get. I just have to clean it up and it will be even cuter. I love the unexpectedness of treasure hunting. The not knowing what you will find is part of the fun.
But, here are some planned upcoming events: There is another Rummage-a rama in West Allis WI this weekend at the State Fair Park. March 5-8 is the Algonquin Library book sale. Remember that there is a $10 fee on Thursday only. March 12 is a rummage sale in Prairie Grove on Route 176 starting at 9am. March 6-7 is a Vintage Shop Hop where over 200 shops will be having sales. There is a map on Facebook at Vintage Shop Hop for all of the participating stores all over Wisconsin and Illinois. It should make for a fun 2 days.
I have started spring cleaning in my house. I like to begin towards the end of February because once the weather starts to warm up, I'm outside in the garden. I had to buy a new vacuum and it was amazing to see what a bad job my old one did. The house looks so much brighter after using the new one.
Happy treasure hunting!
After that I thought I should keep going and I found another sale. Behind some other items, I spotted a giant pig that happened to be a bank. Too cute not to get. I just have to clean it up and it will be even cuter. I love the unexpectedness of treasure hunting. The not knowing what you will find is part of the fun.
But, here are some planned upcoming events: There is another Rummage-a rama in West Allis WI this weekend at the State Fair Park. March 5-8 is the Algonquin Library book sale. Remember that there is a $10 fee on Thursday only. March 12 is a rummage sale in Prairie Grove on Route 176 starting at 9am. March 6-7 is a Vintage Shop Hop where over 200 shops will be having sales. There is a map on Facebook at Vintage Shop Hop for all of the participating stores all over Wisconsin and Illinois. It should make for a fun 2 days.
I have started spring cleaning in my house. I like to begin towards the end of February because once the weather starts to warm up, I'm outside in the garden. I had to buy a new vacuum and it was amazing to see what a bad job my old one did. The house looks so much brighter after using the new one.
Happy treasure hunting!
Tuesday, February 10, 2015
Loads of Vintage Hankies
Since we are having a special on vintage linens at Carriage House Antiques, I wanted to share some displays that we have in the store right now.
Karen came up with a cute idea to attach hankies with small clothespins onto a small metal dress form as its skirt. It is adorable and it is really easy to see all of the patterns on the hankies. She also came up with the idea to put hankies with crochet trim into a mail sorter. Karen and Di are so creative with displays. There is also a bakers rack filled with vintage linens. It looks so cheerful and inviting.
I tried to display my linens in an easier way so that they all are in view. I almost succeeded. I have so many right now that you have to dig a little to see them all. Isn't that the fun way to do it?
I enjoyed treasure hunting today since the sun was out for awhile. It actually felt warm.
Happy treasure hunting!
Karen came up with a cute idea to attach hankies with small clothespins onto a small metal dress form as its skirt. It is adorable and it is really easy to see all of the patterns on the hankies. She also came up with the idea to put hankies with crochet trim into a mail sorter. Karen and Di are so creative with displays. There is also a bakers rack filled with vintage linens. It looks so cheerful and inviting.
I tried to display my linens in an easier way so that they all are in view. I almost succeeded. I have so many right now that you have to dig a little to see them all. Isn't that the fun way to do it?
I enjoyed treasure hunting today since the sun was out for awhile. It actually felt warm.
Happy treasure hunting!
Tuesday, February 3, 2015
Linens.....
I love to change my vintage linens seasonally. There are so many beautiful ones that I wish I could display my whole collection. There are some wonderful hand embroidered pieces, crochet, handtowels, aprons, handkerchiefs and tablecloths. I have spent time going through them and have put many for sale at Carriage House Antiques. This month it is 20% off all linens. (All framed pictures are also 20% off.) It is a nice time of year for me to reorganize and share the treasures that I have found over the years.
Yesterday, since we had so much snow on Sunday, school was closed. The boys and I went to the Carriage House in the afternoon to set up my linens for the big sale. I promised them some time afterwards at Starbucks as a thank you. What a surprise when we got to Carriage House to see how much snow needed to be shoveled in order to just get in. Something about being outside with all that snow working together to get it cleared. It was actually fun. They helped out tremendously inside and out. As promised, we spent time at Starbucks (so did practically the whole town) and used their internet access. (We still have problems at times with ours.) So, try to make it over sometime in the month of February to look at the linens and pictures. 20% off is a nice surprise.
Happy treasure hunting!
Yesterday, since we had so much snow on Sunday, school was closed. The boys and I went to the Carriage House in the afternoon to set up my linens for the big sale. I promised them some time afterwards at Starbucks as a thank you. What a surprise when we got to Carriage House to see how much snow needed to be shoveled in order to just get in. Something about being outside with all that snow working together to get it cleared. It was actually fun. They helped out tremendously inside and out. As promised, we spent time at Starbucks (so did practically the whole town) and used their internet access. (We still have problems at times with ours.) So, try to make it over sometime in the month of February to look at the linens and pictures. 20% off is a nice surprise.
Happy treasure hunting!
Tuesday, January 20, 2015
Crafting Felt Hearts
Last year I crafted felt hearts using vintage aluminum light holders and tinsel as well as vintage fabric to embellish them. They came out so wonderfully that I thought I would make them again this year. I especially love how the red hearts came out.
I used vintage earrings and vintage fabric yo-yos to embellish them. I even had some great crochet pieces that I used on them. The pink sparkle felt heart came out wonderfully too. I also put crushed lavender in them. (I had no idea how hard it was to find lavender at this time of year. This summer I will be sure to harvest lavender and dry it from my garden.)
I had drawn the heart free hand and then saved the sample for future use. The embroidery thread that I used to sew it all together was found at sales. I always buy embroidery thread when I find it because it can be used on so many projects. I just happened to have the right red and pink colored threads to match the felt. I try to collect objects all year round when I find something that I really like and am not quite sure what I will use it for. There will always be some way to use it on something. I just had to go into my stash to find the perfect items to embellish the hearts with.
This weekend (Saturday and Sunday) is a flea market in Milwaukee at the State Fair Park called Rummage-a-rama. It is located at 640 S. 84th St in West Allis WI. Enter at Gate 5. Parking is $5. Admission is $4 per person. (Check the construction updates because the ramp for 84th St off of WB I-94 is closed for the winter). I have not been to this before so I don't really know anything about it. If the weather is fine, I just may have to check it out.
Happy treasure hunting!
I used vintage earrings and vintage fabric yo-yos to embellish them. I even had some great crochet pieces that I used on them. The pink sparkle felt heart came out wonderfully too. I also put crushed lavender in them. (I had no idea how hard it was to find lavender at this time of year. This summer I will be sure to harvest lavender and dry it from my garden.)
I had drawn the heart free hand and then saved the sample for future use. The embroidery thread that I used to sew it all together was found at sales. I always buy embroidery thread when I find it because it can be used on so many projects. I just happened to have the right red and pink colored threads to match the felt. I try to collect objects all year round when I find something that I really like and am not quite sure what I will use it for. There will always be some way to use it on something. I just had to go into my stash to find the perfect items to embellish the hearts with.
This weekend (Saturday and Sunday) is a flea market in Milwaukee at the State Fair Park called Rummage-a-rama. It is located at 640 S. 84th St in West Allis WI. Enter at Gate 5. Parking is $5. Admission is $4 per person. (Check the construction updates because the ramp for 84th St off of WB I-94 is closed for the winter). I have not been to this before so I don't really know anything about it. If the weather is fine, I just may have to check it out.
Happy treasure hunting!
Saturday, January 17, 2015
Winter Garden View
I have been busy putting together a powerpoint presentation for the Flea Market Gardening class that I'm presenting at Gardenfest in April. Since yesterday was slightly warmer and it actually felt like spring was in the air (wishful thinking), I went outside to take pictures of my garden with the snow. This way, I could show the attendees how wonderful flea market treasures look in the summer and in the winter. All year round glory. Each picture brought a smile to my face, but my favorite one is with the giant turtle that I purchases a few years ago.
Ethan loves turtles, so when I spotted it in an antique store, I had to buy it. I have moved him around the yard a few times, until I found this spot by the swing set that sits quietly now. Originally, I had it in a place closer to the woods. We have wild turkeys that come and go in the yard and one in particular that was always by himself. We named him Jackson. Well, one day Jackson was walking along when he spotted the turtle. I just happened to be watching from the kitchen window. Jackson slowly approached the turtle and ran away a few times each time he got closer to it. It was so fun to watch Jackson being afraid of this new "animal" in the woods. I'll never forget it. After a few times of circling the turtle and running away, Jackson seemed to have known that the turtle wouldn't bother him and he actually went closer to explore this new addition to our yard.
Flea market treasures bring some fun and whimsy to a garden. I hope to share this with all of the attendees in April that take my class.
Ethan loves turtles, so when I spotted it in an antique store, I had to buy it. I have moved him around the yard a few times, until I found this spot by the swing set that sits quietly now. Originally, I had it in a place closer to the woods. We have wild turkeys that come and go in the yard and one in particular that was always by himself. We named him Jackson. Well, one day Jackson was walking along when he spotted the turtle. I just happened to be watching from the kitchen window. Jackson slowly approached the turtle and ran away a few times each time he got closer to it. It was so fun to watch Jackson being afraid of this new "animal" in the woods. I'll never forget it. After a few times of circling the turtle and running away, Jackson seemed to have known that the turtle wouldn't bother him and he actually went closer to explore this new addition to our yard.
Flea market treasures bring some fun and whimsy to a garden. I hope to share this with all of the attendees in April that take my class.
Thursday, January 8, 2015
It's a New Year!
Happy New Year to you!
I am a few days late I know, but things have been busy. After taking down all of the decorations, (at home first) and then at Carriage House Antiques, I spent 5 hours at the store redecorating and putting out Valentine treasures. The booth looks so light and airy. I love it!
Even though the snow is falling outside right now and the temperatures are sooooo cold, I'm thinking of spring. The new Vintage Style magazine is out and it is a really good issue. Maybe because we are stuck inside and the kids have been home for 2 days due to school being cancelled, I'm dreaming of flea markets and looking for treasures. The Vintage Style magazine makes it worse since the pages are full of wonderful treasures to hunt for.
I have also been busy preparing for my presentation at Gardenfest on April 11th this year at McHenry County College. I'm presenting on Flea Market Gardens. It has been fun researching and seeing pictures of what others have done to their gardens. But again, it makes me dream of spring and all that will come with the warm weather.
Remember, rummage sales will start in March and that isn't really that far off. It gives me time to organize my home for all of the treasures that I will be filling it with shortly.
Keep safe and warm this winter.
I am a few days late I know, but things have been busy. After taking down all of the decorations, (at home first) and then at Carriage House Antiques, I spent 5 hours at the store redecorating and putting out Valentine treasures. The booth looks so light and airy. I love it!
Even though the snow is falling outside right now and the temperatures are sooooo cold, I'm thinking of spring. The new Vintage Style magazine is out and it is a really good issue. Maybe because we are stuck inside and the kids have been home for 2 days due to school being cancelled, I'm dreaming of flea markets and looking for treasures. The Vintage Style magazine makes it worse since the pages are full of wonderful treasures to hunt for.
I have also been busy preparing for my presentation at Gardenfest on April 11th this year at McHenry County College. I'm presenting on Flea Market Gardens. It has been fun researching and seeing pictures of what others have done to their gardens. But again, it makes me dream of spring and all that will come with the warm weather.
Remember, rummage sales will start in March and that isn't really that far off. It gives me time to organize my home for all of the treasures that I will be filling it with shortly.
Keep safe and warm this winter.
Sunday, December 21, 2014
Happy Holidays! Merry Christmas!
On our way up to Monroe Wisconsin last weekend for our bi-annual cheese run, we were driving through Brodhead and came upon a truck outside of someone's driveway that was a perfect Christmas card picture. We just had to stop. I thought it was a wonderful image to use to wish each and every one of you a joyous holiday season whether you celebrate Christmas on December 25th, Hanukkah or Christmas on January 7th. Hope you have a wonderful time with friends and family and that the new year brings you good health, love and lots of time to enjoy life.
Tuesday, December 9, 2014
An Unexpected Gift
I got such a nice surprise today from my friend Cecilia. I had just finished cleaning up a mess from a toilet that overflowed and was pleasantly surprised to find a holiday gift waiting for me. My friend Cecilia loves vintage Christmas items probably as much as I do. She had wrapped up a candle that is sold at Anew Interiors Anew in Woodstock and tied on a vintage snowman ornament. I have never seen an ornament like it. It is beautiful! I am touched and so excited. I hung it on my silver tinsel tree where it belongs. Most of the ornaments on that tree were purchased from Cecilia. It was so nice of her to think of me. She is my friend that I go treasure hunting with.
On another note: I found this vintage Santa bank today. I love it. Santa is winking. It will be for sale at Carriage House Antiques on Thursday for $26.99. I am tempted to keep him......
I love to just sit and look at my decorated Christmas tree. All of the tall trees at Menards were sold, but we did manage to find a blue spruce for $12. It is so full and beautiful. This year I chose to put on homemade/crafted ornaments and other favorites. Every year its a new look.
Hope you find some time to treasure hunt!
On another note: I found this vintage Santa bank today. I love it. Santa is winking. It will be for sale at Carriage House Antiques on Thursday for $26.99. I am tempted to keep him......
I love to just sit and look at my decorated Christmas tree. All of the tall trees at Menards were sold, but we did manage to find a blue spruce for $12. It is so full and beautiful. This year I chose to put on homemade/crafted ornaments and other favorites. Every year its a new look.
Hope you find some time to treasure hunt!
Tuesday, December 2, 2014
Decorating for Christmas
As soon as the Thanksgiving dishes are put away, decorating for Christmas in my house begins. Since I worked at the Carriage House Antiques on Friday, I started as soon as I got home. I just love to bring out the vintage ornaments where I am always in awe of their beauty. Vintage Santa and elves are my favorite. I put up my 3 vintage tinsel silver trees where each have a theme. The smallest one is for Santa only. One is for vintage figures that I purchased on my treasure hunts this year and the other one is for vintage ball ornaments that I also purchased sometime this year on my treasure hunts. I did bring out some old favorites. I had to!
I like to set up the vintage decorations first before I set up the tree. It's nice to spend time on each so that I can savor the moment. We will probably put up the tree this weekend. We usually put up a real tree. We don't go far. Usually just to Menards where they have a nice selection for a good price. It has become our tradition.
Enjoy making memories this holiday season!
I like to set up the vintage decorations first before I set up the tree. It's nice to spend time on each so that I can savor the moment. We will probably put up the tree this weekend. We usually put up a real tree. We don't go far. Usually just to Menards where they have a nice selection for a good price. It has become our tradition.
Enjoy making memories this holiday season!
Monday, November 24, 2014
Enjoying Some of Fall
Even though it was raining, we decided to spend some time at Edwards Apple Orchard in Poplar Grove. They will be closing for the season on November 30th. I love going to the orchard and experiencing everything that they offer. They have the most wonderful barn full of edibles and home décor. Downstairs is a café where you can get apple cider donuts, apple cider and more. Austin fell in love with half popped popcorn so we made one last trip this season to stock up on them. It's always sad when the season comes to an end.
But, one season ends and another holiday season begins. I restocked my space at Carriage House Antiques. We had such a wonderful open house this past week. So many wonderful people came to help us celebrate. I sold many vintage Christmas treasures. It was nice to see how excited people were when they found that perfect treasure or one that brought back memories of their childhood. It was wonderful to be a part of it all.
There are still many wonderful vintage Christmas treasures along with other treasures at Carriage House. Things are always changing and new treasures are always being brought in.
It is snowing today here....a good day to clean the house and to prepare for Thanksgiving. Here's hoping everyone has a wonderful Thanksgiving!
But, one season ends and another holiday season begins. I restocked my space at Carriage House Antiques. We had such a wonderful open house this past week. So many wonderful people came to help us celebrate. I sold many vintage Christmas treasures. It was nice to see how excited people were when they found that perfect treasure or one that brought back memories of their childhood. It was wonderful to be a part of it all.
There are still many wonderful vintage Christmas treasures along with other treasures at Carriage House. Things are always changing and new treasures are always being brought in.
It is snowing today here....a good day to clean the house and to prepare for Thanksgiving. Here's hoping everyone has a wonderful Thanksgiving!
Monday, November 17, 2014
Holiday Open House is Only Days Away!
The holiday open house at Carriage House Antiques in Crystal Lake starts this Wednesday at 1pm and continues through Sunday. I started setting up my space today and it is filled with vintage Christmas. I so love Christmas and everything vintage that goes with it. I'm planning to do more on the space tomorrow since I found loads more to put into it. It is going to be so much fun!
Wednesday 1-7
Thursday 10:30-5
Friday 10:30-5
Saturday 10-4
Sunday 12-3
Happy treasure hunting!
Wednesday 1-7
Thursday 10:30-5
Friday 10:30-5
Saturday 10-4
Sunday 12-3
Happy treasure hunting!
Thursday, November 6, 2014
Rearranging
Every week I try to rearrange my space at the Carriage House Antiques. It's nice to have a new welcoming look. I bring in new merchandise as often as I can because everyone likes to see something new. Right now, jewelry has taken over. I have been finding so many wonderful pieces that I have to share them.
The Holiday open house is scheduled for November 19th from 1-7pm and then continuing regular hours for the rest of the week. We will be closed as usual on Monday November 17th and again on Tuesday November 18th to prepare. Please make sure to mark your calendar for this wonderful time. Vintage Christmas at its best. I'm parting with wonderful treasures that I have had for years. It will be such a fun time.
Happy treasure hunting!
The Holiday open house is scheduled for November 19th from 1-7pm and then continuing regular hours for the rest of the week. We will be closed as usual on Monday November 17th and again on Tuesday November 18th to prepare. Please make sure to mark your calendar for this wonderful time. Vintage Christmas at its best. I'm parting with wonderful treasures that I have had for years. It will be such a fun time.
Happy treasure hunting!
Friday, October 31, 2014
On the Road Again
My friend Cecilia and I spent the whole day yesterday treasure hunting. It was such a blast! It is great to have someone to bounce ideas off of. We pick up things that we know each other would like incase the other missed something. The man at the store wasn't sure that we could pack all of the furniture that she bought into my van, but since I'm the master packer (as Cecilia says), we fit it all. The back seat is there for a reason. It was jammed packed too.
We still found time to stop at a new store that we found in Barrington right off of Route 14. There was a pink sign on the road for Pink Geranium. Our interest was piqued so we decided to stop. It is in a nice old brick building. They sell architectural remnants, new items and vintage items. It was their 4th week opened. They are only opened on Thurs-Sat. Their Christmas open house is in 2 weeks so that might be a good time to visit them. They are supposed to combine it with other Barrington stores. We bought a few treasures, but I think that they have so much more room to stock more treasures for sale.
Happy Halloween! It was scary to wake up with a dusting of snow on the ground. I'm not ready for it yet.
Happy treasure hunting!
We still found time to stop at a new store that we found in Barrington right off of Route 14. There was a pink sign on the road for Pink Geranium. Our interest was piqued so we decided to stop. It is in a nice old brick building. They sell architectural remnants, new items and vintage items. It was their 4th week opened. They are only opened on Thurs-Sat. Their Christmas open house is in 2 weeks so that might be a good time to visit them. They are supposed to combine it with other Barrington stores. We bought a few treasures, but I think that they have so much more room to stock more treasures for sale.
Happy Halloween! It was scary to wake up with a dusting of snow on the ground. I'm not ready for it yet.
Happy treasure hunting!
Wednesday, October 29, 2014
Fall Colors Pillow
At least today I'm back into the fall. The past few weeks have been all about Christmas and getting things ready for the November open house at Carriage House Antiques.
A while back at an estate sale, I bought a hand embroidered piece of a pheasant/partridge that incorporates fall colors. I loved it and knew that it would make a great pillow. Yesterday I finally made that pillow. It is perfect for this time of year.
Since the weather is getting chilly here, I started knitting a scarf. It always seems appropriate to sit down and knit when it begins to get cold. I love to just sit and knit to clear my mind. It is my stress reliever and meditation.
Enjoy the fall. Happy treasure hunting!
A while back at an estate sale, I bought a hand embroidered piece of a pheasant/partridge that incorporates fall colors. I loved it and knew that it would make a great pillow. Yesterday I finally made that pillow. It is perfect for this time of year.
Since the weather is getting chilly here, I started knitting a scarf. It always seems appropriate to sit down and knit when it begins to get cold. I love to just sit and knit to clear my mind. It is my stress reliever and meditation.
Enjoy the fall. Happy treasure hunting!
Tuesday, October 28, 2014
Getting Ready for.....Sh!...Christmas
I have always loved the Christmas season. I look forward to it every year. This year is no different, except I have started working on it earlier. Since the Carriage House Antiques will be having a Holiday Open House in November, I needed to get ready earlier. I am almost finished going through my collection of Christmas ornaments and decorations and have many (I do mean a lot) of treasures that will be selling at the open house. I have also been busy putting some of my "touches" on items that will be selling also. So many wonderful items. Too bad I can't keep them all!
Happy treasure hunting!
Happy treasure hunting!
Tuesday, October 21, 2014
Busy....Busy....
The days just seem to fly by lately. I have been accomplishing a lot, but I need more time to do the other things.
This weekend, we were in Ft. Wayne Indiana so I had lots of time to finish some knitting projects. They are being felted in the washing machine right now so I'll post pictures when they are finished. I always get more knitting done when the weather gets cooler. This weekend was perfect for that since I was spending it inside at a Pokémon tournament.
I rearranged my space at the Carriage House Antiques to fit in a few more things. A favorite hand made wooden garage is there now. I'm trying to not add too many new items since the Christmas open house is coming soon. But, I keep finding great treasures to put in the space. I'm really busy pricing Christmas treasures and have sooooo many wonderful ones. You won't want to miss the open house. (More to come on that at a later date).
Sparrows Nest thrift store had their Christmas open house today. It was loads of fun. Lots of great treasures. All of the stores have Christmas items in them now.
There are 2 church rummage sales in Crystal Lake on Thursday: 1st Congregational on Pierson Street starts at 9am and the Methodist Church near the Salvation Army starts at 5pm.
Happy treasure hunting!
This weekend, we were in Ft. Wayne Indiana so I had lots of time to finish some knitting projects. They are being felted in the washing machine right now so I'll post pictures when they are finished. I always get more knitting done when the weather gets cooler. This weekend was perfect for that since I was spending it inside at a Pokémon tournament.
I rearranged my space at the Carriage House Antiques to fit in a few more things. A favorite hand made wooden garage is there now. I'm trying to not add too many new items since the Christmas open house is coming soon. But, I keep finding great treasures to put in the space. I'm really busy pricing Christmas treasures and have sooooo many wonderful ones. You won't want to miss the open house. (More to come on that at a later date).
Sparrows Nest thrift store had their Christmas open house today. It was loads of fun. Lots of great treasures. All of the stores have Christmas items in them now.
There are 2 church rummage sales in Crystal Lake on Thursday: 1st Congregational on Pierson Street starts at 9am and the Methodist Church near the Salvation Army starts at 5pm.
Happy treasure hunting!
Monday, October 13, 2014
Sh....The Garden is Sleeping
This past weekend I put the garden to sleep. It was a little chilly, but perfect to work outside. It was time to clean up the garden. I usually refresh the soil in the fall, but this year I'm waiting for the spring instead. The yield wasn't that great this year and I felt that refreshing it in the spring would be better. Since the garden is a series of raised beds, I can start early in the spring getting everything ready. Next year I'm thinking of planting only kohlrabi, swiss chard and maybe squash in it. Time to change it around.
I had my garage sale on Friday and it was sooooo cold. I had on multiple layers along with my gloves. I didn't have a great turnout, but at least I sold some of the bigger items like a jewelry armoire. I was a little disappointed in the lack of people shopping. I love to haggle on price, but most people were looking for free items or very inexpensive. If I had a price of $1 on an item, they wanted it for 50 cents. It was definitely the most challenging sale I have had. I donated whatever was left to Savers in Crystal Lake so at least my house is clutter free. For now.
I added new items to my space at Carriage House Antiques. There is a lot of jewelry there now! I'm getting ready with my Christmas items. An open house is scheduled for in November. Details will follow soon.
Thursday, October 25th is the First Congregational Church rummage sale in Crystal Lake on Pierson Street.
Happy treasure hunting!
I had my garage sale on Friday and it was sooooo cold. I had on multiple layers along with my gloves. I didn't have a great turnout, but at least I sold some of the bigger items like a jewelry armoire. I was a little disappointed in the lack of people shopping. I love to haggle on price, but most people were looking for free items or very inexpensive. If I had a price of $1 on an item, they wanted it for 50 cents. It was definitely the most challenging sale I have had. I donated whatever was left to Savers in Crystal Lake so at least my house is clutter free. For now.
I added new items to my space at Carriage House Antiques. There is a lot of jewelry there now! I'm getting ready with my Christmas items. An open house is scheduled for in November. Details will follow soon.
Thursday, October 25th is the First Congregational Church rummage sale in Crystal Lake on Pierson Street.
Happy treasure hunting!
Wednesday, October 8, 2014
The Simple Things
Sometimes the simply things are the best. I bought some wonderful dried flowers at the Cedarburg flea market last weekend. The large bouquet was for a wood vase that I have and love and the other bunch was for in my pitcher that is a part of a wash set that is on top of a buffet. Just those simple touches really warmed up the room.
On another note: I finished setting up for my garage sale. I decided to have it this Friday only. I haven't done a Friday only sale, but thought that since the weather will be good that I would try it. I don't want to hold anything over until the spring.
Happy treasure hunting!
On another note: I finished setting up for my garage sale. I decided to have it this Friday only. I haven't done a Friday only sale, but thought that since the weather will be good that I would try it. I don't want to hold anything over until the spring.
Happy treasure hunting!
Monday, October 6, 2014
Treasures Galore
These past few weeks have gone by so quickly. I have been so busy trying to get my space to look just right. This morning, I rearranged and added more treasures. (I took a few things out that I will be selling at my garage sale. They just didn't fit in with the look that I was going for.) If the weather holds, I will have the garage sale on Friday. One day only. I wanted to have the sale this past Saturday, but with the rain, snow flurries and cold temps, I decided to wait.
My space is really coming along at Carriage House Antiques. I have been busy hunting for new treasures. My friend Cecilia and I went out again on Friday and hit some estate sales and rummage sales. It was a blast! We have a great time and it's nice to have someone to bounce ideas off of.
The boys and I went to the last Cedarburg Flea Market on Sunday. Even though the weather was very cold, we had a great time. We found a few treasures, but there weren't a lot of vendors. It was way too cold to be outside all day. I am updating the 2015 calendar of flea markets and events so be sure to look at it and mark your calendars for next year.
Zion Lutheran Church rummage sale in McHenry is on Thursday Oct 9th at 8am. Autumn Drive in Woodstock along Garden Valley Road is on Oct 17-19. Happy treasure hunting!
My space is really coming along at Carriage House Antiques. I have been busy hunting for new treasures. My friend Cecilia and I went out again on Friday and hit some estate sales and rummage sales. It was a blast! We have a great time and it's nice to have someone to bounce ideas off of.
The boys and I went to the last Cedarburg Flea Market on Sunday. Even though the weather was very cold, we had a great time. We found a few treasures, but there weren't a lot of vendors. It was way too cold to be outside all day. I am updating the 2015 calendar of flea markets and events so be sure to look at it and mark your calendars for next year.
Zion Lutheran Church rummage sale in McHenry is on Thursday Oct 9th at 8am. Autumn Drive in Woodstock along Garden Valley Road is on Oct 17-19. Happy treasure hunting!
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