New Year. New Doors. New Everything!

Taylor, me, & Tyson

My life is about to change...big time! My decision to move to CA, closer to my kids, is a bit scary, but also crazy exciting. I am packing up my things this month and heading West to a land and culture that is quite different from what I am accustomed to. Prepaying for your gas at the pump, wicked parallel parking challenges, paying to park to shop at Target, maneuvering across 5 lanes of traffic to exit, and grocery carts that lock their wheels if taken out of the perimeter of the store parking lot. I can do it! I know I can! (At least my kids say I can!)

My new home is located in a quaint area of LA called Larchmont Village. The small apartment has everything I was looking for, well almost. Close to my kids, Starbucks, and sidewalk cafes. It has hardwood floors, vintage architectural details, and is in a charming building that will suit my eclectic junk style.

Fortunately, I can work from anywhere in the country and LAX is 20 minutes from my door. I will be traveling between Florida, California and Minnesota, for Junk Bonanza, of course. Lots of fun new business stuff on my plate that I will be sharing with you soon. I plan to take a deep breath and dive in. Geez! This is gonna be fun!

Thanks for hangin' out with me this year and have a Happy New Year!

Ki

Wishing you a Merry Christmas and a bright New Year!
Hope you are enjoying every moment with family and friends.
Cheers,
Ki

Salt & Pepper Angel Project

Sometimes the simplest projects are the ones I get most excited about!

I have been procrastinating producing this project for several years now. Christmas comes and goes and I say to myself "I will get to it next year." (Sound familiar?) Well, I finally decided late or not, I am going to make angels from salt and pepper shakers!

Step 1
Place a cork inside the cap. (I had to turn my cork sideways in larger caps to fit snugly.)

Step 2
Cut a piece of 18 gauge wire and wrap around a round object to shape halo as shown and insert through hole in cap into cork to secure.

Step 3
Wrap tinsel garland around halo and secure by tucking end through wire.

Step 4
Attach angel wings to each other with tape or glue and to shaker with double stick poster tape. I used feather wings from a craft store, but vellum or art paper works as well. Embellish with ribbon or cord. Fill glass shakers with colored sugars for a festive option.

Singular shakers (missing their mates) are the least expensive. The one above cost $1.50 at a flea market.

Step 5
Arrange several angels on a mirror, silver tray or decorative china platter and embellish with greens ornaments and pine cones. They also make sweet place card holders or hostess gifts!

Whew! I feel so much better now that I don't have to store this idea away till next year. My brain will be a little less crowded!
Happy Holidays!
Ki

Let it Snow?

Waiting for the snowstorm to hit Florida.

Just heard the weather reports from back home in Minnesota. How many inches? Yikes!

I am envisioning my truck buried under a mountain of snow. Oh well!

I just heard from a hearty Minnesotan friend that said "Truthfully, I am GIDDY that it is snow-snow-snowing outside and I'm in the house with my glue and scotch tape! Going to light a fire later and be thankful for a roof to live under! Good to do that every now and then!"
Wow! Great attitude!

Karla, junking buddy, seamstress extraordinaire, and decorating on a budget guru

Just want to let you know my sister Karla, just started a blog. Be sure to visit and say hi! I know she will be excited to hear from you!

Don't forget to check out the Junk Revolution Online Store. Best Seller this weekend?
Junker Charms!
Cheers,
Ki

Flea Fix

After spending this past week sitting at my computer finishing up Flea Market Style Magazine Spring 2011, a shopping trip to the flea market was just what the doctor ordered! My sister Karla insisted I move away from the screen and head out to the Ocala Flea Market.

It was a perfect day for a flea!

It isn't the kind of flea you find amazing antiques but the livestock was plenty unusual.

I really wanted to take Mr. Bunny home with me.

We did scarf down some of the best Kettle Corn I've tasted for under $4. (I consider myself a connoisseur of the yummy stuff.)

I bought a half dozen spools for a project for $3. Will share with you next week.

My sister paid $10. for this silver plate tray. I confirmed she got a good price!

I am a sucker for pretty fabric. Wish I knew how to sew.

Karla and I stopped at an antique store on the way home. This 2 foot crowned baby was a bit steep for my wallet, but I may go back. I don't know why I am attracted to such weird junk?!

I am feeling much better now that I got a flea fix!

All new tees and sweats in the online Junk Revolution store. Be sure to check out for your favorite junker gifts.
Cheers,
Ki