JUNK CAMP

A New Door Opens in 2012.

2011-12-31T16:58:00.004-06:00

We just have to find it!
I believe there is a plan and purpose to one's life. Not sure what mine might be, but I will continue to search in the New Year. One of my favorite sayings is The more you know, the more you know you don't know. It is true.

Life is grand and I plan not to waste a minute. Wishing you a wonderful 2012 and thank you for your support and friendship.
Cheers,
Ki

2011-12-28T15:18:00.007-06:00

How is it that fleamarket bottles can be so amazing with no work at all?

Check out this link for a fun interview I did recently!

Happy New year!!
Ki

Joy to the World!

2011-12-21T15:20:00.004-06:00

2011 is winding down.
It has been a whirlwind of a year!
Magazines, Junk Bonanza, and moving to Los Angeles kept me crazy busy and so very happy. I am truly blessed. I doubt life will quiet down in 2012, and that is ok by me!
Happy New Year! I wish you peace, joy, good health and good times with friends and family.
Thank you for your kind words and support.
Cheers,
Ki

Cowboy Junction Flea Lecanto Florida

2011-11-29T10:43:00.000-06:00

I love discovering off the map flea markets! A reader and fellow junker recommended Cowboy Junction in Lecanto Florida and I decided it was worth some research since Lecanto is an easy drive from my sister Karla's home in Ocala FL. When searching the internet I realized the flea doesn't seem to have an official website or facebook so I had to pick up tips and info from folks blogs and comments. Good thing I found out it is only on Tuesdays and shuts down in the summer.

My sis and and I headed out early on a foggy Tuesday morning in November to get our Flea fix. Since we weren't exactly sure where we were going, we stopped at the local mini mart in Lecanto for directions. We got there just as most vendors were unloading their trailers and trucks.

We were excited to see the eclectic mix of antiques, vintage and garage sale leftovers. Something for everyone! It was obvious some vendors were there to buy as they left their booths unmanned to do some shopping.

The pace was relaxed and not as frantic as most fleas. It did feel like shoppers were on vacation or enjoying a morning in the warm sunshine. I picked up a couple small items that would fit in my carry-on including the cheerful glass clown cocktail stir sticks above.

We couldn't resist the mini donuts as you can see my sis Karla posing for the blog photo above. We stopped at a Thrift store in Beverly Hills on the way home and tried out Red's a new lunch spot for us in Hernando. Yummy, but be sure to split, portions are huge! Now I wouldn't recommend driving all day to visit Cowboy Junction, but if you are in the area you may just find a treasure or two! I did!
Cheers,
Ki

2011-11-24T11:14:00.002-06:00

It's a pretty simple message. Pass it on!

Have a great Thanksgiving weekend everyone.

Ki
(I took this photo a couple days ago in Beverly Hills Florida just outside a Thrift shop.)

A Winey Weekend!

2011-10-13T12:59:00.008-05:00

Tyson, Jenny and me having the best day ever!

Life has been crazy busy lately so I took my daughter Taylor's advice and escaped for the weekend leaving my computer, paperwork and deadlines behind. My son Tyson and his girlfriend Jenny and I hopped in the car and drove 4 hours north to Paso Robles. Wine Country. If you know me, you know that my favorite things in the whole wide world are family, friends, junk, horses, wine and coffee. In that order.

Paso Robles Inn

With a little help from my new friends, Three Speckled Hens, we were able to plan a last minute trip that was the perfect get-a-way! Wine tour on the west side of town that included great vineyards, wineries and tasting rooms. Our designated driver and tour guide was Dustin from the Wine Line. We were fortunate to get the last 2 rooms at the historic Paso Robles Inn in charming downtown Paso.

Me, Kathy, Susi & Carrie owners of Three Speckled Hens Shows

I met these amazing women at Farm Chicks in Spokane this past summer and knew we would hit it off! I am planning to visit their vintage sale next April in Paso Robles and am excited to meet all 70 vendors. I hear they throw quite the shindig!

Proulx Tasting Room

Susi's family owns Proulx an extraordinary winery and we were treated to a private tasting while we watched the sun set over the spectacular countryside.

Dinner at Artisan, a few short blocks from our hotel was just the right ending to our day. Early to bed, since we were headed to San Luis Obispo the following morning for a little junking at the incredible Remnants of the Past show.

Tyson and I, happy as clams and loading the goods

Family, friends, junk, wine and coffee. Can't get any better than that!
Cheers,
Ki

P.S. Taylor was very jealous when she saw the pics so she will be sure to come along next trip!

Wanted! Your Favorite Vintage Sales.

2011-09-29T17:42:00.003-05:00

Photo courtesy of the Boys of Barn House's Summer Country Vintage Marketplace Weekend; shot in the booth of Platanitis Vintage Home & Garden.

Be sure to visit Flea Market Style blog to learn how you can recommend your favorite vintage sales for the upcoming spring issue of the magazine. We had such a great response from readers on antique malls across the country for the current issue, we know you are going to have lots of fabulous vintage sales to tell us about! Sorry, you can't leave your comments here, you must head over to FMS.
Cheers,
Ki

One Giant Thank You!

2011-09-21T19:01:00.007-05:00

(front left to right) Emily, Me (back left to right) Kim, John, Irene, Jane

Junk Bonanza 2011 is past and I am still in a bit of a daze. It was the biggest and best Bonanza ever, thanks to our amazing vendors, gracious partners and sponsors, exuberant press, hardworking and fun loving staff, supportive family and and everyone that worked behind the scenes. I am grateful to all the attendees that laughed, shopped, and drank those crazy good tomato drinks.

If you missed the Bonanza you will want to check out Junk Bonanza blog for fun pics and all the stories.

Think I will take a nap. A very long one!
Cheers,
Ki

Heading to Junk Bonanza!

2011-09-10T22:51:00.003-05:00

Talkin' Junk!

2011-08-30T10:32:00.006-05:00

If you love your coffee as much as you love your junk (like me), then you will love this new addition to my online store. We will also have limited quantities of our exclusive Talkin' Junk diner mug in the Revolution store at Junk Bonanza . Check it out here!

The winner of the giveaway is LisaM. Congrats Lisa! Look forward to seeing you at
Junk Bonanza!
Cheers,
Ki

My First Post on Etsy's Blog!

2011-08-25T14:23:00.005-05:00

My first post on the Etsy blog. Be sure to check it out! And I would love it if you would leave a comment there!
Cheers,
Ki
PS Be sure to sign up to win Junk Bonanza giveaway below!

Junk Bonanza Giveaway!

2011-08-23T16:00:00.001-05:00

It is almost here! Yeah! We have been working like crazy to make this year the best Bonanza yet! I often wonder if we will get everything done in time...and somehow we always do. So I am going to try not to stress and enjoy each and every day leading up to Sept 15!

Be sure to enter our Bonanza giveaway below to win VIP tickets, the spanking new fall issue of Flea Market Style magazine and some other goodies. Here is the scoop!

The annual Junk Bonanza brings together more than 130 juried vendors of select vintage treasures, junk and antiques! This year's event, Sept. 15-17, returns to Canterbury Park in Shakopee, Minn.

The giveaway includes:

* 2 VIP tickets, which allow for admission all three days of the event, including the Early Bird on opening day, two hours before the show opens to the general public.

* A Junk Bonanza tote

* A Junk hat from the Junk Revolution store

and

* A copy of the latest Flea Market Style Magazine, hot off the press!

To enter, just comment on this post by Monday August 29 2011 and be sure to leave your contact information so I can mail your prize if you are the lucky winner!

Winner will be chosen by a random number generator.

Learn more about the indoor, rain-or-shine Bonanza at www.junkbonanza.com, or on the blog at junkbonanza.blogspot.com, where profiles of individual vendors are running almost daily.

Good luck and see you at Junk Bonanza!
Ki

Flea Market Style Cover Reveal

2011-08-09T08:00:00.000-05:00

Yeah! Here it is! The cover for the fall issue of Flea Market Style Magazine! Now, you are going to have to wait a few weeks till it hits the newsstands, so be patient. This fab photo was taken by Heather Bullard. The wall is in my living room. Needless to say we had a fun day shooting!

One of my all time favorite ideas, that actually works!

If the suitcase shelves look like something you might want to duplicate for your wall, there are step by step instructions in the magazine.

Keep an eye on the FMS blog for updates!
Cheers,
Ki

A Good Day at the Auction

2011-07-17T13:06:00.014-05:00

I am not the most patient person when it comes to shopping, so auctions are always a bit uncomfortable for me. Especially when my items of interest are scheduled for the end of the day. Last weekend my sister insisted we check out an auction in Citra, Florida. Karla and I ran over to the property early (around noon) to check out the items going up for auction and decided we better sign in and grab chairs. Glad we did!

Two black University Windsor chairs were on my items of interest list. The auctioneer referred to them as Harvard chairs. There were a few other things on my list and I was hoping to put something in the back of the truck at the end of the day.

It was probably 95 plus degrees and extremely humid. Uncomfortable, but as my sis says, it helps to weed out the weak at heart early. She was buying for her Etsy site, so had an eagle eye for items that were non-breakable and easily shipped.

Her first purchase, a metal cooler.

These were a few of the items on my list, but went a little higher than I was willing to pay considering I would have to ship back to LA.

Similar items to the ones above will be in the fall issue of Flea Market Style. Wait till you see what we did with them!

It was a great day....only wish I had worn shorts! My one purchase was the 2 chairs, mint condition with original cushions for twenty bucks each.
Did some research when I got home to find they were selling on eBay for over $200 each without the cushions. Seems they were made by the oldest furniture manufacturer name in the Country, Nichols and Stone.

Karla and I went to another auction last night and they happened to have one of my same chairs, 'cept not as good of condition. I thought maybe I would buy if I could get a good deal to add to my collection. Guess what it sold for? Over $350. Yep! Not sure what I will do with my chairs, but I feel better knowing I can probably get my 40 bucks out of the pair if I decide to sell! I did however come home with a giant metal chandelier in my lap. Can't wait to share pics. Not sure what I will do with that either...I really need a store!

What is the best deal you have gotten at an auction, flea or yard sale??
Cheers,
Ki

A Much Needed Flea Break

2011-07-03T15:23:00.014-05:00

I have been hanging out with my dad and sis on the farm in Ocala Florida while I finish the fall issue of Flea Market Style magazine. We have less than 2 weeks to hand everything over to the publisher and the details are mind blowing. I am sorta a big picture gal so this part of the process is a titch stressful. This morning, my sister insisted I get off my butt, leave the computer screen so we could check out the local weekend flea market. I am glad she was persistent!

You will never guess what we used softballs for in this next issue of FMS!

My sister Karla found this handmade afghan which will be going on her Etsy site soon. It is awesome!

Yep, I thought so! Heywood Wakefield when I turned the chair over.

I always like the chairs the vendors sit in. Why is that?

My purchase, Texasware like bowls. Wish you could see the little speckles. My sister was not feeling it. It is nice to junk with someone that has different style picks. No fighting over stuff!

It is quiet on the farm so it is the perfect place to finish up the fall issue of Flea Market Style magazine. I have already upgraded my MiFi account when I ran out of bytes earlier today. No high speed Internet at the bunk house and if I stand in just the right spot I can stay connected for most cell phone conversations. This post was a challenge as my service cut out a few times before I finished. Geez!
My sister informed me there are a few auctions coming up and I better get this magazine finished so we can do some more junking before I go back to LA.
Cheers,
Ki

Farm Chicks Spectacular

2011-06-06T22:53:00.004-05:00

I am exhausted! It was my first trip to Farm Chicks in Spokane and I had a ball! Will get all my photos posted next week as I am traveling this week for FMS mag. If you were there, let me know and I would love to visit your blog to see photos. Serena puts on one amazing show!!

Yes, I got a chance to have breakfast at Chaps and I must say I was blown away by the food, decor and wonderful people. Celeste, you rock!
Cheers,
Ki

I Nailed It!

2011-05-19T17:11:00.007-05:00

I can't help digging through piles of date nails every time I spot them at flea markets. I own a small jarful of meaningful dates including my birth year...not gonna tell you what that is...

I knew they are from wooden railroad ties and mark the date the tie was installed, but that was the extent of my knowledge. I decided to take a minute and do an online search and came across a great article. I am now better informed! Did you know France made the first date nails around 1859? Neither did I. Check out this link for a short course in these cool little buggers.

Now I just have to figure out something fun to do with them...any ideas?

Heading to Des Moines next week to shoot 2 stories for Flea Market Style mag. Fun time with Cammie, Stacey and Adam!
Cheers,
Ki
P.S. Title of post was inspired by American Idol. Could I get any cornier?

Ode to Joy!

2011-05-09T10:36:00.005-05:00

Ode to Joy by Kristin

I had a wonderful Mom's day at the Rose Bowl with my kids and want to thank everyone for their sweet notes. You have no idea how comforting it was to hear from all of you. Thank you.

I want to tell you about Kristin, a good friend of mine, who has challenged herself to blogging everyday for a year. Not that unusual you say? Kristin is a brilliant artist with a keen sense of humor. Get this... she will create a piece of art everyday and post about it.

Crab Cakes by Kristin

This is the note she sent me this AM...

You can check out my blog, now be warned, the picture I did this morning is one I drew while I was waiting to meet you at Salut for drinks....and you couldn't look at it....too graphic, I thought it was humorous, it made me laugh. This morning I finally put color to it.

Kristin has crazy wild dreams and has decided to paint them...wait till you see her Project Runway model in a gown made from a tube of toothpaste. Her blog,
Camp Studios, will make you smile! Be sure to say hi and welcome her to the blog world!
Cheers,
Ki

My Sweet Mom

2011-05-06T16:54:00.004-05:00

Mother's day will be bittersweet this year. It will be the first Mother's day in a long while that I will be spending with my kids, Taylor and Tyson. It will also be the first Mother's day I will celebrate without my mom. My mom died on Easter from Alzheimer's.

I haven't been able to communicate with mom for some time because of her disease. I feel like I can talk to her now. I know she is with my little sister in Heaven surrounded by horses, dogs, cats and lots of donkeys.
Love you Mom.

I wish everyone a blessed and wonderful Mother's day.
Ki

Vintage Coffee Pot Totem

2011-05-03T19:10:00.005-05:00

Window shopping in Athens Texas I spied these delightful guys in the window of an optometrist shop. Seems everyone has been bit by the junk bug! Too funny!
Love those fork eyelashes!
Gathering photos of my trip to share with you...I had a blast.
Cheers,
Ki

Heading to Texas!

2011-04-22T15:51:00.007-05:00

I am excited to take a little break and hop a plane to visit my friends at Sweet Peas and Winnie & Tulula's in Athens, Texas. I will be hanging out in the shop Friday evening April 29th and Saturday the 30th. Be sure to check here for times and more info. I will be signing Flea Market Style magazines, my official duty, and look forward to meeting new friends who share the same passion for the old and beautiful! Come say hi and and check out this amazing store.

I only travel with a carry-on these days, so Margo has promised to ship my purchases back to CA. (Thank you Margo.) I am really looking forward to some down time. It will be a blast! Come hang out with us!
Cheers,
Ki

The Never Ending Winter

2011-04-18T21:17:00.004-05:00

Got several emails from Minnesota friends today tortured by the possibility of snow tonight. Decided to snap a pic as I walked to the post office to buy stamps and send along to cheer them up. Now you could say I am just rubbing it in, but I would never do that. I lived in Minnesota my entire life and I understand their pain about now.

Hang in there my friends. Winter can't last forever?!? Can it?
Cheers,
Ki

The Early Bird gets the Best Junk!

2011-04-14T19:21:00.002-05:00

Junk Bonanza Early Bird tickets just went on sale. Yeah!
For details check out the Junk Bonanza Blog.
Hurry, cause the first 250 tickets ordered get the cool JB canvas tote!
Cheers,
Ki

Brilliant Idea!

2011-04-02T16:35:00.005-05:00

All I can say is, I wish I had thought of this one!

2 walkers + 1 board = awesome table to sell your flea market wares.
Cheers,
Ki

A Girls Day Out!

2011-03-30T19:52:00.009-05:00

Yep, you guessed it! Junking with my sis, Karla, at Svinga Bros in Ocala Florida. Just a girl's day out shopping the salvage yard. Beats the Grove in LA!

No minors...I guess this junk is rated XXX!

Price is determined by weight and metal type.

Already made a project out of these wall mount tissue boxes. (With the help of Karla's husband.)

Wonder what she has up her sleeve? It is on her Etsy shop along with some great locker tags and keys with locks that she nabbed!

We didn't ride in on bicycles so we were ok.

A simple piece of junk and a little imagination is the start of something amazing!

Love Karla's design. Modern desk organizers using ashtrays from airline seat arms..She is a genius! You can check them out on her Etsy site!
Cheers!
Ki

The One That Got Away!

2011-03-18T17:07:00.001-05:00

I stood patiently behind a 30-something & rather good looking guy as he negotiated for the vendor's best price on this amazing hotel sign. I kept quiet and waited cause I knew the minute he hesitated, I would raise my hand and shout SOLD to the gal in the olive army jacket!

I didn't get the chance. He too, couldn't pass it up. I doubt that he knew I was waiting in the wings to snatch it up. If only I had gotten their 5 minutes earlier.

Despite the hotel sign mishap, it was a great day to be shopping the Rose Bowl flea with my Minnesota Junk Bonanza team. Check out the Bonanza blog for more pics of our weekend.
I can bet you have a story about the one that got away...have you gotten over your disappointment?
Cheers,
Ki

Do you think this is funny?

2011-03-08T17:59:00.003-06:00

As I was unpacking boxes this weekend I ran across a hairnet still in its original package.Vintage copy always makes me smile. Okay, I get The Final Touch of Loveliness, although I am reluctant to think that even back then a hairnet was considered lovely. What I don't understand is the tag line Human Style. Does that mean they made other styles, and if so, for who? Farm animals? Family cats? Aliens?

The front of the package may be a bit confusing, but the guarantee on the back is very clear. Don't see too many companies these days guaranteeing their product to be Perfect!
Would love to hear if you are as puzzled as I am or if you have read any vintage copy that makes you smile!
Cheers,
Ki

It Never Gets Old!

2011-02-22T19:36:00.008-06:00

Okay I know this is sorta dorky, but it is still exciting to see my team's hard work in print. I had my daughter, Taylor, take this photo of me today at my local newsstand on Larchmont in LA. I have been known to move Flea Market Style to a more visible location on the racks since it often gets lost behind the big names that pay for prime location. (I doubt that the vendor appreciates my rearranging.)

I am still waiting for my copies from the publisher so had to fork over retail dollars to have one of my own. Geez!

Hope you have had a chance to find yours. Be sure to check out the FMS blog for where to find.
Cheers,
Ki

Flea Market Style Cover 'Reveal'

2011-02-07T03:00:00.003-06:00

Our new cover!

Yeah! Flea Market Style hits the stands in just a few weeks. Want to be sure you know what to look for on the newsstand. It has been a blast working with our amazing team and there will be no rest for this gang as we are already working on the next issue.

Heather Bullard and I had a rocking good time shooting the cover last month and we will let you in on the behind the scenes on the Flea Market Style Magazine blog sometime soon.

I know you will love the new issue. Be sure to head over to the FMS blog to grab a button and celebrate with us!
Cheers,
Ki

Welcome to Sunny California!

2011-01-25T14:52:00.008-06:00

My new ride, a Ford Escape.

No scraping windows in this part of the country. Yeah! It has been 75 and sunny since I arrived! Still sleeping on my kid's sofa while my apartment bathroom is being remodeled. Can't wait to show you the before and after. Hoping to move in this weekend.

My new home in Larchmont Village Los Angeles CA

I have been learning my way around town. I am still a bit nervous when driving and parking. No big suburban parking lots here. Thank goodness for back-up cameras. I managed to find the fashion district in downtown LA for my fabric needs and have visited a few spendy antique stores. Need suggestions on salvage yards, used restaurant supply stores, thrift shops and bargain vintage hot spots. Am looking forward to the Rose Bowl and Long Beach Fleas in a few weeks. Any tips are welcome!

Spent the weekend with Heather Bullard in Riverside CA shooting the cover for Flea Market Style. It goes to print this Friday and we have begun working on the Fall issue. Be sure to head over to the Flea Market Style blog for a host of great give-a-ways!

Wish me luck! Big City living is gonna take some getting used to. Thank goodness for the kids!
Cheers,
Ki

Sweet Good Byes

2011-01-13T12:46:00.001-06:00

As I scrape ice from my windshield for the last time, I wonder what it will be like not owning a truck. I have decided to trade in my trusty steed for a more compact model. I flunked parallel parking when I was 16 and haven't improved much since. I figure my big black pick-up just isn't gonna work for me in LA. I am sad to say goodbye to my friend that has dutifully carried hundreds of loads of junk over the years without a single complaint.

I suspect I will become one of those people with chairs, salvage, and tables strapped to the roof of my much smaller vehicle. Oh my. Any tips would be helpful!
Cheers,
Ki

New Year. New Doors. New Everything!

2010-12-31T12:23:00.008-06:00

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!

2010-12-25T12:22:00.002-06:00

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

2010-12-16T05:00:00.000-06:00

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?

2010-12-11T14:04:00.009-06:00

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

2010-12-05T16:29:00.009-06:00

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

Fresh from the Garden!

2010-11-26T15:45:00.008-06:00

Picked fresh from the garden on November 26! Hard to believe, especially for a Minnesotan.

I am spending time at my bunkhouse on the family farm in Ocala Florida. I needed a quick centerpiece for my sister's birthday brunch and hadn't planned ahead. So shortly before my guests were to arrive I dug through a few craft boxes and came up with some cute paper that I cut into flags, attached to sticks and added to fresh cut flowers.

I snuck the flowers early this AM from the my sister's garden, hoping she wouldn't notice me rummaging around outside their family room window. Unfortunately Mia, their fox terrier, heard me and announced it to all inside. Ooops!

Thanks everyone for your lovely comments about my mom. It truly meant allot to me. We had a wonderful day and every so often throughout the afternoon I believe my mom knew who I was, or at least that she loves me.
Cheers,
Ki

Thanksgiving with my Mom.

2010-11-24T19:04:00.003-06:00

As I write this post, my eyes are filling with tears and I am actually sniffling all over my keyboard. I don't usually wear my emotions on my sleeve, but tonight I am feeling a touch weepy. Tomorrow, along with my sister, brother-in-law and dad, I will spend Thanksgiving with my mom in her new home. My mom has Alzheimer's.

I haven't seen her in a few months and I am hoping she will remember, if just for a moment, who I am. It is okay if she doesn't. It just would be nice.

I am truly blessed to be spending the day with my mom and family. I am grateful.

Wishing you and your families a wonderful Thanksgiving!
Ki

Winner!

2010-11-24T12:33:00.001-06:00

True Random Number Generator

Min: 1

Max: 77

Result:

Congratulations to Renee from Where the Grass is Greener, the winner of the $100 gift card to the Junk Revolution store!

Cheers!

'Tis the Season Give-a-way!

2010-11-19T17:14:00.002-06:00

The Bachman's Holiday Ideas House would be incomplete without lots of natural elements, Bachman's is a nursery and garden center, after all! We incorporated hundreds of boughs, spruce tips, poinsettias, pine cones and birch twigs to add a festive feel.

The sunroom was decked out for a celebration, of course!

A collection of vintage ornaments, displayed in a bowl are just one of the simple sparkly touches.

The Bachman's Holiday Ideas House is open through December 12 {closed on Mondays, Tuesdays and Thanksgiving}.

Time to celebrate!

This week, my Junk Camp blog reached 1000 followers! Yeah! To mark this occasion, I am offering a $100 gift certificate to my Junk Revolution store to ONE lucky reader.

My daughter, Taylor, and I spent this past week filling Junk Revolution's virtual shelves with over 2o new tee & sweat shirt designs and accessories, just in time for the holidays.

I want to thank all of you for coming along on my junking journey, supporting my various endeavors and faithfully reading about it all on this blog.

To enter, just leave a comment on this post.

You must be a follower to win {so become one if you are not already!}.

I will close the comments at midnight (CST) on Tuesday 11.23.10 and announce the winner on Wednesday.

Cheers!
Ki

Holiday Ideas House, Sneak Peeks!

2010-11-07T19:24:00.001-06:00

The Bachman's Holiday Ideas House opens this Thursday, November 11th. The final touches are being placed and it looks terrific!

Just for you, some sneak peeks into a festive holiday home filled with vintage inspirations and creative project ideas.

Please visit the Bachman's website for ticket information. And don't worry, I will be posting images and directions for recreating many of my favorite Holiday Ideas House projects on this blog.

Cheers!

Holiday Ideas House

2010-11-05T11:00:00.005-05:00

Along with traveling cross country, I have been busy with Bachman's Holiday Ideas House. You won't want to miss it! Angie and an incredible team of stylists, buyers, and designers have created a jaw dropping, breathtaking, and inspirational showcase of hundreds of wonderful ideas you can take home with you for the holidays!

Bachman's Holiday Ideas House opens Thursday November 11th. Be sure to check out the website for dates, times and tickets. (Tickets are selling fast so be sure not to wait.) It is definitely worth traveling to see. Plan lunch with a friend and immerse yourself into a holiday wonderland. I have never seen anything like it!

Will be posting photos as soon as the last minute touches are complete!
Cheers,
Ki

Living out of a Suitcase

2010-10-24T17:17:00.010-05:00

I'm sorta a homebody, but it seems lately life has taken me for a wild ride cross country. I photographed stories in California and Des Moines for Flea Market Style Magazine, junked in South Dakota, Nebraska, and Iowa and am headed to NYC this week. Whew!

Living out of a suitcase leaves little time for curling up in my favorite chair with a magazine and cup of french roast. Hotel rooms are all starting to look alike. And in case you are wondering, I do check for bed bugs!

What makes it all worth while? The wonderful people I am privileged to meet. Junkers are the best!
Cheers,
Ki

Bachman's Fall Ideas House

2010-10-08T08:49:00.002-05:00

Well, check a successful Junk Bonanza off the 2010 bucket list! It was a great show and it's activities have kept me away from this blog, along with working on another fabulous issue of Flea Market Style and the opening of the Bachman's Fall Ideas House. I have just a 'few' things on my junking plate! Wanted to give you a glimpse of the Bachman's Ideas House.

The Fall House is open just a few more days. Last day is Sunday the 10th of October and then we tear it all down and start over on the Holiday House. Did I just say Holiday? Yikes...where does the time go? Not sure I am ready. Are you?
Cheers,
Ki

PS - Head on over to the Flea Market Style blog, we are hosting a great giveaway!

The Bonanza goes campy!

2010-09-03T14:30:00.001-05:00

google images

The vintage trailer craze seems to be really catching on. I heard a rumor that some vintage trailer lovin' Bonanza shoppers will be pulling in to the Junk Bonanza with their own beauties. I can't wait to check them out for myself!

There will also be two vintage trailers for sale at the Junk Bonanza! That's right, FOR SALE!

First, this beautiful 1956 Airstream Caravanner Travel Trailer. It just so happens that 1956 was the first year the Caravanner model was manufactured - this trailer is #80 out of #100 built in Jackson Center, Ohio.

Look at this cutie! This 1966 Coachmen (Middy) was made in Middlebury, Indiana and measures 10' x 7'. Both trailers will be parked at the main entrance to the Junk Bonanza. Go to the Junk Bonanza activities page for more information!

As you can probably imagine, my life is a little wild right now. We are making final preparations for the Junk Bonanza, putting finishing touches on the Fall Ideas House at Bachman's and finalizing our shooting schedules and stories for the next Flea Market Style magazine......whew!

Loving every minute of it!

I have always dreamed of traveling the country with a vintage trailer and a long list of fleas to shop. Someday...

Cheers!

Junker's Willpower

2010-08-22T16:30:00.015-05:00

I have to say, I have improved my willpower over the years. I automatically ask myself the mandatory six questions before moving ahead on a junk purchase. Do I need it? Do I have room to keep it? Do I have time to refurbish it? Can I afford it? Will I ever find another one? And most important...Will I regret not buying it?

Big Red Game Wheel. Thirty-six inch diameter, four feet tall on a base, double working wheels that make the coolest clicking sound when spinning, pristine condition. You may know, I am a sucker for game wheels and this is definitely the 'Granddaddy of Wheels'! My heart literally skipped a beat when I eyed it in the corner of an antique warehouse on a junking trip to Nebraska a few weeks ago!

Willpower out the window! It will be at Junk Bonanza. I feel a little sick to my stomach just thinking about putting a price tag on it. Do I need it? Do I have room.... I know I am not the only junker that struggles with willpower issues!
Cheers,
Ki

Where Women Create

2010-08-19T11:23:00.000-05:00

I am honored to be featured in the most recent issue of Where Women Create, with fellow midwestern girl Amy Butler on the cover. You can check out my profile along with those of other creative women! Many of us in this issue will participate in the Thursday evening autograph party at The Creative Connections event.

I have a busy weekend ahead. We are bringing a glimpse of Junk Bonanza to Oronoco Gold Rush Days, a giant (over 1200 spaces) antiques and flea market in southern Minnesota. Actually we will have a Junk Bonanza booth Friday and Saturday at the event with selected vendor merchandise, copies of Flea Market Style magazine for sale and promotion for the Junk Bonanza. Stop by and say hello, I will be there signing copies of the magazine on Friday!

Can it possibly be mid-August already? The Junk Bonanza is right around the corner. Have you gotten your Early Bird tickets yet?

Cheers!
Ki

Random Thoughts.

2010-08-15T17:41:00.014-05:00

I was recently at the Atlanta Gift Market and spent much of my time in crowded elevators traveling from floor to floor. The market was busy and the elevators were working overtime. Folks squeezed a bit closer each time the doors opened to make room for yet another passenger. We all joked and greeted each other while looking at the back of heads.

Did my hair look as bad as most of my elevator colleagues? I was horrified. I realized the only time I look at the back of my head is when my stylist, Bea, spins me around in the chair and hands me a mirror. That would be about 4 times a year...yikes!

Upon returning from Market, I ran to my friend Jane's shop and purchased a $4. vintage hand mirror. If I am in a hurry in the morning, I don't bother to look, as I would spend the day knowing my severe cowlick needed some work. What was the saying? What you don't know, won't hurt you?

I guess that is why I like flea markets...there are no elevators and nobody really cares what you look like. Have you checked out the back of your head lately?

Amy over at Junkologie blog is having a super giveaway. You could win tickets to the Junk Bonanza or a signed copy of Flea Market Style Magazine 2010. Hop on over and let her know I sent ya!
Cheers,
Ki
PS Yep, that is vintage peach and black tile in my bathroom. It is kinda a love hate thing with me.

I'd love to meet YOU in Minnesota!

2010-08-01T15:00:00.002-05:00

Hope you are planning to attend 2010 Junk Bonanza on September 16, 17 and 18 in Shakopee, Minnesota. Along with the the incredible Bonanza team, I have been working hard to put together a spectacular sale showcasing the most talented vintage, antique & junk vendors in the Midwest! I heard airline fares to Minneapolis have been discounted in some parts of the country so if you were thinking of traveling, you might want to look into soon! You can also check out the “accommodations” link on the Junk Bonanza website for lodging options. Early Bird tickets are for sale on the website as well!

In addition to shopping for great junk, there are more opportunities for fun that just happen to coincide with the Junk Bonanza dates. I have provided links so you can learn more:

· The Bachman’s Fall Ideas House in Minneapolis will be open to the public during the Bonanza. The Bachman's Ideas house will take on a modern country look for Fall, a surprising mix of vintage and new for a harvest celebration! A side trip you won't want to miss. Get your tickets online as favorite times sell out.

· The Creative Connection Event will bring artisans and crafters together for classes, panel discussions and interaction during a 3-day event at the Hyatt Regency Hotel in downtown Minneapolis. Special guest Ree Drummond, the “Pioneer Woman” blogger has recently been added as a speaker and will be available to sign copies of her book, The Pioneer Woman Cooks. Visit The Creative Connection website for all the important info.

· The Handmade Market at The Creative Connection event will be open to the public for boutique style shopping. Bus transportation will be available between the Junk Bonanza and The Creative Connection event. (Bus tickets will be sold by Creative Connection)

Who knew that Minnesota was the place to be in September? There will be an abundance of inspiration and creativity - what fun! I hope you will join me!
Cheers!
Ki

Behind Closed Doors

2010-07-20T14:30:00.018-05:00

The thrill of the hunt is the best part of junking. I believe the thrill is created by the not knowing. The possibility of finding a gem in a tattered box of seemingly worthless kitchen utensils, a treasure left to rot on the floor of a fallen down barn, or a love note hidden in the pages of a time worn book.

Every so often I stumble upon a place that excites and energizes the junker in me.

Behind closed doors I found a room of wonder. A once busy train station used as a storage facility for unwanted pieces of history.

The prettiest robin's egg blue walls spoke quietly, urging me to explore.

I found out the building may be for sale. Wish it was in my neck of the woods.

I know you too, have experienced this feeling of wonderment. We never know what lies behind closed doors. I have learned over the years if you are brave enough to open the door your life will be richer and way more fun!
Cheers,
Ki

Junking Trip 'EST's"

2010-07-13T20:25:00.001-05:00

Just returned from junking in Nebraska, Iowa, and South Dakota with my friend Cammie. Thought you might enjoy the EST highlights of our trip.

YummiEST Treats!

CoolEST Junkyard! (also the BuggiEST afternoon)

GreatEST Value!

WeirdEST Junk Find! (dentist suitcase)

FavoritEST Junk Find! (5 foot double game wheel)

DarnEST Camouflage (Antique store posing as a warehouse)!

DustiEST Gravel Road!

FriendliEST Kitty!

CutEST Train Station!

TallEST Corn!

QuirkiEST City Festival!

BEST Tour Guide and Scout!

I do love junking!

Cheers!

PS ~ Go check out the Junk Bonanza blog (http://junkbonanza.blogspot.com/) for a fabulous giveaway and to meet another Bonanza vendor!

California and Beans.

2010-07-02T11:30:00.003-05:00

My trip to California was a mix of business, family, and fun in the sun! I stayed with my kids sharing the sofa with Beans, my daughter Taylor's newly adopted stray Boston terrier. Despite his drool, love for chewing up rolls of TP, snorting, and farting, he made the perfect roommate.

My 20-something children gave me a glimpse into their southern California lives, complete with dinner at '$1 taco' night and hangin' at the cast and crew party for a new TV show at a local hot spot where, I am pretty certain, I was the oldest person in the club! We enjoyed brunch at Paradise Cove, walked the beach, visited Laurel Canyon dog park and hiked the trails in Runyon Canyon. It was a blast! (I really should get myself a pair of shorts...and a tan.)

My days were spent working long hours with Heather Bullard planning and budgeting for the next issue of Flea Market Style magazine. You can check out Heather’s post on the Flea Market Style blog to hear more about our time together planning and eating, eating and planning…..

This week I am back working on the Bachman's Fall Ideas House, getting ready to open vintage in 3 more stores, and then off for some junking with my friend Jane. I will fill you in when I return! (I sorta miss that smelly little Beans.)

Cheers!
Ki

PS - Check this out!
Have you ever fantasized about having your work published? What about becoming a book designer and author? Then join in the conversation on Wednesday, July 7 at 4 p.m., when Nicole McConville, Beth Sweet, and Kathleen McCafferty—editors of Lark Craft (www.larkcrafts.com) host THE CREATIVE CONNECTION/Etsy Virtual Lab. Join in the conversation on how to get published, learn how Lark finds inspiration, works with crafters and designers, and develops book ideas. Find out how to tailor your own book proposal to best reflect your creative spark. To register for this Lab Session, go to etsy.com. But hurry—space is limited!

Good Junk Award!

2010-06-20T09:57:00.002-05:00

If you are a regular reader of my Junk Revolution website, you know that I award the Good Junk Award to businesses, artisans, authors, blogs, and flea markets who specialize in vintage or vintage inspired products and services.

I am excited to introduce you to the latest recipient of the Good Junk Award, White Flower Farmhouse!

White Flower Farmhouse is a small retail shop located in Peconic, New York that specializes in incorporating antique and refurbished elements into simple country style.

Owner Lori Guyer opened White Flower Farmhouse in 2003. She believes that simple country style should be inspired and not expensive - I love that! Because Lori is committed to affordability, her inventory turns over quickly and allows her to offer new finds each week!

Want to know the best part? They have an online store! You can visit www.whiteflowerfarmhouse.com to shop for vintage wares, ticking pillows, ironstone, linen sheets from France, Robert Ogden lighting and Dash & Albert rugs and so much more good stuff.

It has been a busy week for me - spent two days shooting for the next issue of Flea Market Style and then got on an airplane to fly to California to meet with Heather Bullard and enjoy some time with my kids!

Be sure to check out the Junk Bonanza blog to get all the scoop on the fab vendors, event updates, and give-a-ways.
Cheers!
Ki

Summer Ideas House Projects

2010-06-12T08:30:00.000-05:00

The Bachman's Ideas House is full of summer-inspired decorating ideas! Using lots of vintage items that are readily found at flea markets, tag sales or perhaps laying around your tool shed or garage, we found clever, yet practical ways to re-use, re-cycle and re-create!

Remember the vintage hangers that we used as towel bars in the Spring Ideas House bathroom? I am loving our summer-inspired use of old lawn sprinklers! We simply used metal brackets to anchor these vintage beauties to the wall and added some crisp white towels. A fun look for your summer cottage or lake house! (I am sorta into hooks and towel bars lately...must be a midlife thing.)

This next project could be used in a child's bedroom, a mudroom, entryway or even in a bathroom. We took wheels off beyond repair wagons and trikes, and mounted them onto wood using doorstops from a home improvement store. We built them as singles but you could also use a long piece of wood and mount a row of wheels horizontally. Sturdy enough to hold a jacket, but so fun you may not want to cover them up!

The screened in front porch just begged for summer color. We created flower boxes using old mailboxes, and hardly a one the same size. We attached the mailboxes to heavy wood blocks for stability and character. (We filled the boxes with more wood to raise pots.) The geraniums are a happy, colorful welcome to the Summer Ideas House!

OK, after writing this post, I am ready for a tall glass of lemonade in the warm summer sun! I am planning to get the chance to relax a bit, soon. My schedules and projects continue to keep me busy and energized...but I also realize that it is important to stop and smell the geraniums once in awhile so I am off to CA next week to visit the kids! Here's wishing all of you inspired projects and fun this summer!

Cheers!
Ki

Bachman's Summer Ideas House is open!

2010-06-02T16:45:00.068-05:00

Perfectly timed with the early summer-like weather we have enjoyed in Minnesota, the Bachman's Summer Ideas House opened to the public today!

The home's interior underwent a complete redesign once again and is inspired by the lake cottages that surround the many Minnesota lakes. We were able to make great use of the yard and detached buildings, creating comfortable outdoor entertaining spaces complete with lots of vintage touches.

The Bachman's Summer Ideas House features over 150 projects and ideas for using new and vintage items in fresh, unique and practical ways. Some of my favorites are the mailbox planters, wagon wheel hooks, and sprinkler towel bars. I will show you a couple of these in my next post.

So you're thinking, "Ki, while I would love to come see your Ideas House but I don't live in Minnesota (or anywhere near Minnesota for that matter!)".

I am really excited that you will be able to see the house in a future issue of Flea Market Style magazine. We will be shooting the house for a feature in the magazine!

On another note, the new Junk Bonanza blog is up and running. The blog's author Jill Hinson, will feature insider information about the Bonanza and highlight the Bonanza vendors in her posts. Right now she is hosting a giveaway on the blog - two Early Bird tickets to the 2010 Junk Bonanza! Go check it out!

Cheers!
Ki

Dream Junk Job

2010-05-29T09:41:00.002-05:00

I seem to be tangled up in my many projects...

and some days feel like I am juggling so many "balls" I wonder how I will keep them all up in the air.

Bachman's Summer Ideas House opens this week and we have transformed it into a completely different home from spring, including paint colors, furniture, accessories, and over 75 ideas! In addition, the yard is filled with gardens, a working potting shed and entertaining spaces. Whew!

While we race to finish the Summer Ideas House I am working on refreshing the Flea Market Style Magazine blog. Yep, I have signed on to produce the 2011 edition, this time as Editor in Chief. Will announce the team and update you on the Flea Market Style blog really soon.

And of course, the Junk Bonanza needs my energies. Fortunately, I have an incredibly seasoned and dedicated staff I can count on. We'll be adding a blog this week on the Bonanza site to introduce you to our amazing vendors and update you on all Bonanza happenings.

I am the luckiest person in the world to have my dream junk job! I do however, go to bed each night wondering where the day went and hoping I don't drop any balls!

Cheers,

Junk Bonanza Website Refresh

2010-05-16T21:21:00.037-05:00

Wow, Junk Bonanza is just four months away! It seems like just yesterday I was dishing up mini- donuts to early birds waiting in line at the entrance to Junk Bonanza 2009.

Be sure to check out the refreshed and remarkable Bonanza website . All the information you will need to attend the best junk round-up in the Midwest is there including links to many of our over 100 vendors!

* Very soon you will be able to purchase Early Bird Tickets online which will allow you to enter a full two hours before the doors open to the general public! (First 250 tickets ordered will receive a very cool market bag.)

Coming soon...an up close and junk personal look at your favorite Bonanza vendors on our new Junk Bonanza blogspot. Jill Hinson will be giving you all the scoop!

We are excited to be back at Canterbury Park with both returning and new vendors bringing their best wares for all your shopping dreams!

Hope you are planning on joining us at Junk Bonanza 2010 on September 16, 17 and 18!

Don't forget to sign up for Bonanza updates....more news to come! We've got some pretty big plans in the works.

Cheers!
Ki

Roadside Junking

2010-05-10T13:24:00.027-05:00

Junking is never without adventure and my recent trip to Florida proved just that!

I love the fact that the word "junk" has gone through a bit of a transformation over the past 10 years, and I would like to think I had something to do with it. "Junking" has even become a verb - "to find a great vintage element or remade/repurposed item to incorporate into our home".

But the roadside junk stop just outside of Ocala, Florida reminded me that sometimes it is still just junk! I loved rummaging through the good, the bad and the ugly to find the hidden gems that resided among them! Bet you're jealous.

As I sifted through the piles, an elderly woman sat in a chair in the midst of the junk under an umbrella with her cash belt snug across her tummy announcing prices as needed. The junk was cheap and dirty. There was no air conditioning, no restrooms, no packing material or bags, and no returns! No kidding. Die hard junking!

Planning has begun for the next Bachman's Ideas House, with a summer theme and lots and lots of brand new projects to share. Good news...just heard Flea Market Style magazine will go into a second printing next week! Life is busy but I am having a ball!

Cheers!
Ki

The Creative Connection Event

2010-04-27T15:56:00.047-05:00

Mark your calendars! The Creative Connection Event is taking place in Minneapolis the same dates as the Junk Bonanza. The Creative Connection was recently founded by Nancy Soriano, former editor of Country Living magazine and Jo Packman Editor in Chief of Where Women Create.

The Creative Connection brings together artists, business owners, bloggers and those who have the desire to be creative for an opportunity to learn, market and create! There will be daily hands-on classes in jewelry making, knitting, painting, sewing and journaling taught by industry leaders as well as panel discussions on how to use technology and social media to market your business. The event will even feature a "Smart Bar" for one-on-one consult by experts in the field and a Handmade Market for indulging your shopping desires!

Keynote speakers at the event will include Amy Butler, a designer known for printed fabrics for home, fashion and craft as well as MaryJane Butters, editor of MaryJanes Farm magazine.

I will be attending the Thursday evening cocktail party and authors book signing event. I am honored to be featured in the August issue of Where Women Create and have been invited to sign copies of the magazine (along with other featured women) at a special Where Women Create table.

Two great events on the same weekend makes for an ideal girls getaway and worth the travel from either near or far. You can find more information on the Junk Bonanza and The Creative Connection websites.

I just returned from junking in What Cheer Iowa and Kimball South Dakota! Having packed my long underwear away for the season, I had to buy a new pair along with a stocking hat for the 50 mile hour winds and chilly temps in SD. The junk was worth it!

Cheers!
Ki

More Ideas House Projects!

2010-04-22T14:16:00.029-05:00

The best ideas require little or even better, no work!

Take for example the "curtains" in the Bachman's Ideas House. The white kitchen needed a pop of color but with opening day deadline approaching, time for a custom sewing job was out of the question. A quick, and might I say, adorable solution was to simply tie these new vintage-look aprons on cuphooks attached to the window frames!

This second project really happened by accident. I was working in the kitchen one day while much of the interior of the house was being painted. Needing a paper towel holder, I grabbed one of the painters empty rollers and voila! - we had ourselves a one of a kind paper towel holder - for free! My plan was to attach to a base and use in the craft room. When I went looking for an appropriate base Lora had the same idea for the kitchen!

She attached our repurposed paint roller/paper towel holder to the end of the butcher block island. How is that for re-purposing?

I had a wonderful week in Florida. I was even able to get out for some junking and will share pictures with you next week.

Cheers!
Ki

Two Ideas House Projects

2010-04-16T08:40:00.022-05:00

The Bachman's Ideas House is filled with clever and practical uses for vintage objects - most that can be found easily and purchased for next to nothing. Here's a couple of my favorite projects.

In the upstairs bathroom, I repurposed two old wooden hangers as towel bars. By anchoring a scrap piece of dowel to the wall before the hanger was attached with 2 screws, I created a simple, yet sturdy place to hang a towel!

Notice that the metal "hook" on the hanger makes a great (and easy) place to quickly hang your towel - no excuse for wet towels on the floor! And the wooden form is a great place to add a washcloth or even a hand towel.

For the next project, I challenged my friend, Sara Smith (you may remember her from Flea Market Style magazine) to create a side table with stacks of old coverless Reader's Digest Condensed Books. This project proved to be a bit tricky because it was really important to create a stable base - out of of books, no less!

Sara was able to drill through the center of the books (individually), insert a threaded metal rod and attach it to a wood base with nuts. At the top she added another thin piece of wood for extra stability and topped it with the 4 volumes you see through the glass top. You can see the washer/nut combination under the glass which I think gives it sort of an industrial look. (Clear rubber surface protectors placed on top of the nuts keep the glass from sliding.)

I am off to Florida for the next week to check in with my parents and fam, the bunk house and do some horse back riding....and maybe even a bit of junking.

Cheers!
Ki

Bachman's Ideas House

2010-04-07T09:39:00.043-05:00

Whew! The last few weeks have been a whirlwind. Bachman's Ideas House opened today and it has been a fabulous creative journey.

I was privileged to work with an amazing team of talented folks from Bachman's, including (house mother) Angie and (Mr. in charge-of-it-all)Larry. Together we took a charming old bungalow on the Bachman's property (5936 Lyndale Avenue South Minneapolis MN) and really spruced it up - repainting, adding new light fixtures, granite counters along with a long list of fresh and doable decorating ideas.

The Ideas House showcases many of Bachman's products and highlights how people can incorporate vintage finds and repurposed junk into their own homes with beautiful results.

In addition to putting the finishing touches on the many vintage projects featured in the house, I have been busy spreading the word. This past Tuesday, I appeared on the Fox 9 Morning Show and was able to give viewers a sneak peek inside the house. Click on the Fox 9 link and see my appearance!

Examples of projects included in the house are; vintage hanger towel bars, a bed spring table in the dining room, a side table with a stacked Reader's Digest books base, a "C" clamp coat rack and even a baseball bat headboard! So much fun to create and even more fun to share! (All are for sale! You just have to wait till the house is closed for the season to pick up your find.)

Want to see more? Plan to visit the Bachman's Ideas House in Minneapolis from April 8-18 (closed Mondays and Tuesdays) and May 1-2. Tickets are $5.00 with 20% of the proceeds benefitting Children's Home Society & Family Services. Also with admission, visitors receive a $5.00 coupon off a purchase of $25.00 or more at Bachman's.

What if you don't live in/near Minneapolis? Don't worry, I will be posting more pictures from the Ideas House and project details in upcoming blog posts!

When I checked in with one of the House greeters this afternoon to see how it was going, she exclaimed visitors were giddy checking out all the fun ideas. Some even hugged and squealed with excitement. Hearing that made all those long hours so worth it! Did I tell you we will do it all over again 3 more times this year? Totally new decorating ideas including the yard and gardens coming up in June.
Cheers!
Ki

Living Simply - A junker, her couch, bed and (finally) a can opener!

2010-03-29T09:14:00.031-05:00

I am a junker. Living simply has never quite been my motto. I drive a pick-up truck because I know good junk can be found everywhere and I want to be prepared. We junkers never think one of anything is enough – a box of 100? Now that’s more like it!

Unexpected career opportunities have allowed me to experience simple living. And I am here to tell you that YES, even a junker can embrace a “less is more” lifestyle!

I moved into the charming duplex, I now call home in Minnesota, and purchased just the basics – a couch, a bed and a kitchen table. Slowly, I am adding the accessories that make my home uniquely mine.

Addicted to white bedding, I dressed my bed in crisp white linens and added a couple of the Nancy Polacek pillows featured at Bachman’s. Aren't they darling? The pillows are a perfect compliment to my freshly painted walls – “Wheeling Neutral” by Benjamin Moore.

I also have my favorite American Legion wine glasses along with recycled soda bottle glasses purchased at Bachman’s. Until just recently, I could serve my guests a glass of wine, but forget about cooking dinner! I didn't even have a can opener! Thanks to my friend Patty I am now equipped to open cans! Oh my, I have no excuses...'cept no pots and pans in the cupboards yet. Looks like it will be take-out for a while.

The curious painting above is a gift from my friend Jane – I have had my eye on it for sometime in her shop, Mustard Moon – or maybe he has had his eye on me! I am trying to find just the perfect place to hang him where he won't creep my guests out.

My hand-me down-television - well, let’s just say for now, this is working. I am definitely on the hunt for just the right cabinet! Maybe need to shop the local used restaurant supply store.

This week I am busy finishing up the last projects which will be featured in Bachman's Idea House. Be sure to visit their website to purchase your tickets.

Cheers!
Ki

Get Your Junk at Bachman's!

2010-03-22T16:24:00.015-05:00

If there is one thing I have learned in life is that change is inevitable, often unpredictable and wonderfully exciting all at the same time!

Remember my plans to spend the winter in Florida settling into the bunk house on my parent’s horse farm? Well, my “stuff” is in Florida but I have spent the better part of the last six months in Minnesota working on an exciting new project for Bachman’s – a family owned Minnesota floral, gift and garden center retailer.

I was approached by Bachman's in the fall of 2009 and asked to help the 125 year-old retailer implement a new and different retail strategy, incorporating vintage wares, artisan exclusives, and remade “junk” into the gift and home décor spaces of six of the Bachman’s locations.

So just when I thought I could kick-back and enjoy the winter months in sunny Florida, I was back in Minnesota, calling on talented artisan friends and junkers to help me create and find fabulous products for the Bachman’s stores. A big thanks to Cammie Metheny and Jane Hall for their support and good junk! Larry Pfarr and I managed to travel to seven states hunting for the best (and most) treasures we could find. Not an easy task in the middle of winter. It has been an adventure!

The concept made its debut a couple weeks ago at the Bachman’s Minneapolis store on Lyndale Avenue. We grouped the products into five lifestyle departments, Modern Country, City/Loft, Cottage, Euro and Kids. You can find items ranging from vintage tractor seats, soy candles, locker baskets, old cupboards, Nancy Polacek pillows created especially for Bachman’s, Lisa Souers jewelry, exclusive paintings by Sue Wolfe and Suzanne Theisfield, candle trays made from recycled wood by Tom Howland, silverware plant markers by Brenda Weber, spectacular hand crafted tables of recycled wood and architectual tin from West End Salvage, and much more. Our goal for each department is 50% vintage products mixed with 50% new, with the exception of the kids department where vintage works best as decorating items.

Professionally, this project is the perfect fit for my unusual skill set, I have been working day and night and I love it! My creative juices are definitely working overtime. However, with all the work and traveling I have been doing, I had been feeling a little, well, unsettled personally, that is until I moved into a charming duplex and bought a bed and couch. I sort of feel like I am 18 again, embracing the simplicity of it all while having a ball! (I can't buy canned goods since I don't own a can opener.)

Along with the Lyndale store, Bachman's remarkable visual and buying teams just finished filling the retail spaces at both Bachman’s Plymouth and Eden Prairie stores (3 more stores scheduled for the end of summer.) I should be taking a breather you say? Not for a couple more weeks as on April 8th we will open the Bachman's Idea House located on the Lyndale Bachman's campus that incorporates all our fabulous vintage and vintage-inspired products and showcases real ideas for the decorating your home.

Who was it that said “Life is what happens when you are making other plans.”?

Cheers,
Ki

Flea Market Style is here!

2010-02-08T17:02:00.009-06:00

My friend Jane called and said Sara called and boxes of Flea Market Style were just delivered to their shop. Really? With an anticipated release date of Feb 23, it caught me a little off guard. I swear it was just a few days ago that I was final proofing. Wow! That was fast!

I had Jane and Sara drive a copy to me braving the snow covered icy roads. Thanks guys. You can find me this evening with a glass of wine, magazine in hand, curled up on the sofa in my jammies.

Thanks for all your support during the process. Can't wait to do it again!
Cheers,
Ki

Time Flies!

2010-01-31T15:26:00.014-06:00

The new year is a month old and I haven't had a minute to flop down and say hello! Life has taken me for a marvelous ride these past few months and continues to deliver surprising opportunities and joyful moments.

As I mentioned in my previous post, I was planning a move to the bunk house on my folks farm in Ocala, Florida. Well, my furniture and things moved. I stayed behind braving the obnoxious temperatures and tolerating frozen car windshields and the thirteen layers of clothing it takes to keep warm in Minnesota in January. What for you ask? I was hired as a consultant by Bachman's, Minneapolis based garden, floral, home and gift retail stores to introduce vintage finds along with exclusive product designed and made by local artisans. It has been extremely rewarding and right up my alley. We are racing against the clock to reveal the new concept March 20 in 3 of their stores.

I have had a chance to check out my stuff stacked in the bunk house garage and unpacked one room. Also got to take a day to check out my first flea market of the year in Webster Florida. The sun was shining and I shopped happily with my sister and brother-in-law in a sweat shirt. (No long under wear needed.) My purchases included a harvest gold dial phone, a vintage American Legion belt buckle mold, and a round slide carousel. I love it all!

Flea Market Style Magazine looks absolutely wonderful and hits the stores officially Feb 23! (I heard it may be at the book stores the weekend prior.)

You may have noticed I haven't had a blog face lift....too much stuff to do and too little time. Will check back in soon to update. Be sure to grab a new junking tee on the Junk Revolution online store for junking in 2010!
Peace,
Ki

My Journey

2009-11-11T09:05:00.001-06:00

I am taking a break from my blog for a bit; need to tend to life's details. Along with finishing up Flea Market Style Magazine this month, I am packing up and moving to the bunkhouse on my folk's horse farm in Ocala, Florida.

I will be splitting my time between Minnesota and Florida as I am working on an exciting new Minneapolis based project along with the Junk Bonanza, of course.

You can catch me hanging out on the Junk Revolution Community message boards and I will continue to talk junk on the Flea Market Style Magazine site. Don't forget to check out the Junk Revolution Online Store for your holiday gift giving!

I will be sure to post any earth shattering news as it happens. I plan on getting a blog face lift during my sabbatical, since I haven't done a thing to pretty up my blogspot since I started posting over a year ago. Any ideas?

I am nervous, anxious, but excited to start my new journey. Wish me luck!
Peace,
Ki

Holiday Spirit

2009-11-04T09:05:00.005-06:00

Lori Miller, proprietor of the Round Barn Potting Co has been up nights getting ready for the holidays. I can't wait to see the treasures filling her fabulous shop along with fresh and creative entertaining and decorating ideas. She is talented beyond words when it comes to merchandising and display!

She sent me a tease last night to be sure I wouldn't miss her event this weekend! If you haven't been to Lori's shop you need to clear some time on your calendar! A surprising mix of new and vintage objects showcased in elaborate and beautiful settings. You will leave feeling inspired and probably with a bag or two filled with goodies for entertaining, decorating or gift giving.

The details:

Round Barn Potting Co

Andover MN

2009 Christmas Premiere

Saturday Nov 7 10-5

Sunday Nov 8 11-4

(Don't worry, if you cant' make it this weekend, Lori is open year round!)

Trust me, no matter where you live, it is worth the trip! Hope I run into you at the Barn! And Lori, get some sleep!

Peace,

Party Time.

2009-10-23T12:17:00.011-05:00

Yep, it was a grand Happy Trails blog party! It is hard to believe it has been over a month since the Junk Bonanza. I have been sorting, packing, paying bills, and blogging...you know the drill.

If you missed the party, you will see it was all about saying cheese!

Heather and Amy say cheese.

Kari and Heather say cheese.

A beautiful day to meet folks, visit, and win prizes!

Matthew helped me thank bloggers for coming and introduce our guests.

Jo , me and Nancy saying cheese.

Serena requesting cheese.

Christine brought something better than cheese.

Say home-made cookies!

Looking for cheese from behind the camera lens.

Yep, it's Amy!

Nebraska says cheese!

Twice!

Heather, Nancy, and Jo are saying cheese, but are thinking, where did the cookies go?

Skip the cheese and say ice cream, please!

Thanks everyone for coming! If I missed your names or blogs, don't be shy...be sure to comment. (Wish I had a photo of everyone that attended. Where is Margo and Linda?)

A big thank you to all that shared their Junk Bonanza photos with the world! It was a ton of fun and I look forward to next year's party! We are in the midst of planning 2010 and can't wait to share with you the exciting news I am forced to keep under my hat for just a while longer....

Be sure to check out Flea Market Style Blog for a behind the scenes peek at junking in Texas by Margo Arrick!
Peace,
Ki

Halloween Junk Projects

2009-10-12T10:55:00.013-05:00

I am not sure what is wrong with me. I have never gotten terribly excited about Halloween. I know I am in the minority as surveys confirm Halloween is the 2ND largest holiday in the USA and growing in popularity every year! With that said, two of my favorite stories for Country Home Magazine were Halloween projects...go figure!

You may remember some of my projects from 2006 & 2008 Country Home.

Grain scoops and pumpkins on display in my rustic shelf made to fit the handles.

My take on Matthew Mead's pumpkinman.

Gardeners burlap, ric rac and license plate letters attached with wire.

A shot of black spray paint, pipe cleaners, and upholstery tack eyes turn vintage Jello molds into scary little critters.

Junk Pumpkins were a smashing success! I got letters and emails from readers all over the country. Families, elementary school classes, and girlfriends, all creating one of a kind junk pumpkins and having a whole lot of fun!

Check out the BH&G website...Seems my Junk-o'-Lanterns continue to live on their website!

Now Matthew Mead ,on the other hand, loves Halloween! You must pick up his new magazine or book. The projects are simple, quick, and not too scary!

It is snowing like crazy in Minnesota today...hope the pumpkins don't freeze!
Peace,
Ki

Junk Bonanza. The Junk.

2009-10-10T08:59:00.011-05:00

Junk Bonanza exhibitors have the best junk! Every year I am blown away by their incredible collections, amazing assortments, spectacular display, and down-to-earth prices. This year was no exception.

I have a million photos and can't post them all, but will put together a slide show for the Junk Bonanza site when I have more time to sit at the computer. (Based on my schedule these days, not sure when that will be...) Be sure to check out all the great Bonanza photos and stories on the blogs listed in my sidebar.

Here is just a peak at some of the coolest junk from Junk Bonanza 2009!

Anything zinc, galvanized or industrial was hot!!!

Inspiration thing-a-ma-jigs from silverware.

Love the 5 lb weights.

Multiples in every booth..having a large group over for dinner?

Exhibitors know how to welcome fall.

Did I say multiples in every booth?

Bright and funky.

Sparkly and beautiful.

Happy customer.

Did I mention multiples in every booth?

This year's Bonanza included artisans who recycle and recreate wonderful objects.

Happy customer.

The shopping cart and liner was purchased in my Junk Revolution store at the Bonanza. We will be selling the cart liners, made from recycled coffee bags and trimmed with vintage fabrics, in our online store mid October!

If you are drooling...don't apologize. It happens to the best of us!

Be sure to check out Junk Revolution's Good Junk Seal of Approval Winner, Alli of birddog press! Gotta go work on a few projects for our new magazine, Flea Market Style....first round of stories went to the publisher yesterday....Yikes, I'd better get rockin'!

Oh, and be sure to mark your calendars for Junk Bonanza 2010 Sept. 16-18!
Peace,
Ki

Junk Bonanza. The People.

2009-10-01T17:30:00.021-05:00

Junk Bonanza has the best junk in the Midwest, but what makes the Bonanza second to none is our extraordinary staff and phenomenal vendors. I am humbled by their energy, passion and brilliance!

I want to thank everyone that participated in Junk Bonanza! You rock!

Next up good junk and a great blog party!

Peace,

Junk Bonanza 2009. Opening Morning.

2009-09-27T15:48:00.027-05:00

Thursday morning September 17th 2009. Junk Revolution's 4th Annual Junk Bonanza opened in it's new home, Canterbury Park, Shakopee Minnesota.

Marshall's Farm Market of Eden Prairie MN welcomed Junk Bonanza customers with locally grown produce and plants along with delicious homemade honey, pesto, salsa, jams, breads and more.

Early Bird shoppers (many from out-of-state) were in line by 7:30 AM and buzzing with excitement! They would be the first customers to lay their eyes and hands on some the most incredible antiques and good junk in the Midwest.

Emily and crew handed out Good Junk Bags to the first 200 customers that ordered their EB tickets online.

For an added treat, we passed out freshly baked mini donuts to customers waiting patiently for Canterbury's gates to open.

Despite the long lines, my son Tyson, Irene, and Bonanza's efficient staff were able to get folks inside quickly and without a hitch.

John and I managed to sneak a few mini donuts that morning...unfortunately the white sticky sugar on our fingers and lips gave us away.

Visitors were immersed in an indescribable sea of creativity, beauty, excitement, and energy the minute they came through the Junk Bonanza gates. Bonanza's 110 talented, knowledgeable, and passionate exhibitors proved once again, nobody does it better!

Good thing folks had all those donuts for extra shopping fuel!

A special thanks to Heather Bullard for spectacular photos...my camera hibernated in my bag the entire event. (If I fail to mention names or businesses, please comment, as I want to be sure everyone is credited!)

If you made it to the Bonanza, thank you for coming. If not, hope to see you next year!

Be sure to check out the links in my sidebar for some great Junk Bonanza stories and photos. Next up...Bonanza exhibitors and some cool junk!
Stay tuned!
Peace,
Ki

Taking a little break!

2009-09-21T14:54:00.003-05:00

Wow! Last week's Junk Bonanza was grand! It was a whirlwind of events including set-up, out-of-town guests, TV appearances, magazine meetings, parties, the actual event, tear down, and now closing details! Whew!

I can't wait to share everything with you. I am just too pooped to do it today...I need a nap!
Peace,
Ki

2009-09-14T21:30:00.005-05:00

It is going to be one heck of a Junk Bonanza! I was at Canterbury Park today. I stood in the center of the deserted tent and took a deep breath. In less than 48 hours the tent and buildings will be overflowing with the best antiques, architectural salvage, vintage items and good old junk you have ever seen in one venue!

We are sold out to vendors and continue to receive emails and calls for space. Press has been incredible and we anticipate big crowds! I have been fortunate to have the absolute best team to work with on the Bonanza and couldn't have done it without them.

I am tired, nervous, and a bit overwhelmed! I can't wait to greet folks in line as we open the gates at 8AM Thursday Sept 17 for Junk Bonanza 2009 Early Birds

Don't forget to stop by our blog party on Thursday at 1PM. I am excited to add former editor-in-chief of Country Living Nancy Soriano and editor-in-chief of Where Women Create Jo Packham to our guest list! Can't wait to tell you all about it next week!
Wish me luck!
Peace
Ki

Bonanza Blog Party

2009-09-03T14:02:00.018-05:00

We are having a party!!! This will be my first blog party ever! I wasn't quite sure what a blog party was, so I asked a few celebrity bloggers for input. I learned that the only criteria is, that it has to be fun! So I guess that means treats and prizes!

THE SCOOP:
Happy Trails Meet & Greet Blog Party
Junk Bonanza
Paddock Gardens Canterbury Park Shakopee, MN
Thursday Sept. 17
1:00 to 2:00PM

I have received RSVP's from a few of your favorite bloggers including Heather Bullard, Margo Robolady, Matthew Mead, Linda Restyled Home, The Farm Chicks, and Kari Artsy Mama

Meet Nancy Soriano, Design + Lifestyle Expert and Former Editor-in-Chief of Country Living along with Jo Packham, Editor-in-Chief of Where Women Create

Bring your cameras and cards to pass out (if you have them) and get ready for some fun!

If you plan on attending, grab a blog button to post (the cute squirrel in my sidebar or below) and leave a comment below with your blogsite. (You don't need a blogsite to RSVP.) I will add you to the blogroll on my sidebar .

Feel free to post this button on your blog.

I can't wait to meet everybody!
Ki

Coffee Time!

2009-08-31T13:31:00.005-05:00

Sometimes the best ideas happen by accident! Such is the case of the recycled coffee bag purses my sister Karla is making for the Junk Revolution store at the Junk Bonanza.

You see, I shipped her a box load of coffee bags to make flea market shopping carts liners. Some were just too small for the project. As junkers, we hate waste, so after a few phone conversations, we figured out what we could do with the misfits.

Not bad, huh? I do love my coffee!

Will be posting about the Bonanza Happy Trails Meet and Greet blog party this week. Be sure to check it out!
Peace,
Ki

Win this Cart!

2009-08-27T08:47:00.002-05:00

In the spirit of blogging and to thank everyone for all of the unbelievable support and warm welcome we've received on our Flea Market Style Magazine blog, the team has decided it is only fitting to reward our readers with a fantastic, flea-market inspired give-away!!

Head on over and sign up!

Peace,

What Cheer Iowa Flea Market

2009-08-23T08:36:00.017-05:00

What Cheer Iowa Flea Market is for the seasoned junker. You must posses endurance to withstand the more than likely rains and mud, patience to dig through the thousands of boxes and tables, and passion to appreciate the spectacular junk treasures it has to offer. What Cheer serves up some of the best antiques and junk in the country!

Jane, Sarah, and I spent the night in Oskaloosa as to get an early start. (There are no hotels in What Cheer.) It rained during the night, but be were quite pleased to see the sun peaking through the morning clouds. This would be my first dry visit to What Cheer!

As we pulled in, I couldn't help but take a photo of the parking sign above. The gal at the entrance noticed my curiosity and explained that it was painted by an older gentleman that has since passed away. They didn't have the heart to change it.

My purpose in coming to What Cheer was two-fold. One was the shopping, of course, the other to visit and get a hug from my friends. Tom and Dave are from Muscatine and both will be vendors at the Junk Bonanza next month.

Tom Howland, in the neon green tee, is celebrating over 1 year with his new heart and proclaims he has never felt better! (Tom taught me everything I know about the wonderful world of flea markets and junk!)

There was some confusion as to what day to show up to shop What Cheer. We decided to take Tom's advice and come on vendor set up day.

Not everyone one was unpacked when we arrived, but we managed to snag some of the most amazing junk that most certainly would have been gone had we shown up the advertised day.

Jane and Sarah bought at least 30% of the stuff coming off of this couple's van. One stop shopping!

An entire box of bunny trophies were the perfect present for a friend that had a war on with the bunnies demolishing her garden.

The junk ran the gamut. Pretty to

practical.

Odd to

common.

If this photo makes your heart skip a beat, I shouldn't tell you everything in the boxes is $2. You might have a heart attack!

I couldn't help but appreciate the packing job this vendor from Canada has mastered!

He is able to get more junk in his van than most would get in a 20' trailer.

It was a marvelous day. We could have continued to shop for another 24 hours, but ran out of money and space in my truck.

If you ever have a chance to go to What Cheer, don't hesitate. Don't be fooled by my sunny photos, bring your rain gear!

A personal thanks to all of you that have visited and supported my new endeavour, Flea Market Style Magazine! We are overjoyed with the response and promise you will be blown away by it's pages!
Peace,
Ki

Flea Market Style Magazine Blog Official!

2009-08-19T19:19:00.006-05:00

If you've already been there, you're probably wondering what's taking me so long to announce our Flea Market Style blog?!?! My excuse is...life!

We launched our blog for Flea Market Style magazine very late last night after a major glitch...created by me...spelling the word style wrong, without a t, when I registered the blogspot name...Since our magazine blog includes bloopers, you most certainly will read all about it in the upcoming weeks! For the record, I do know how to spell the word style...without spell check. Really. Tell me you've never done something as stupid as this?!?!

Linda and I plan to blame it all on Matthew who was in dreamland during the horrific event of launching! I am not going to ramble on...Check out our new blog site and get ready for an amazing new magazine!

You can grab a blog button off the new site to help us let the world know!

Peace,

Inspiration Junk Piles

2009-08-13T09:21:00.002-05:00

My house is neat as a pin. My office/workroom usually looks like it was hit by a tornado. That tornado would be me! I have piles of junk on every chair, table top, and cabinet, and in every corner of the room. Inspiration junk piles!

I pull curious scraps and pieces out of bins for projects and when I'm finished...I can't bear to put them back in the bin out of sight. I need to just look at them for a while. Interesting junk comes home with me from the flea market and I automatically add it to a junk pile. The right pile, mind you.

My inspiration piles have been known to take over my office. Today I will show you just one inspiration pile. I don't want to scare you off before you know me better.

Not sure why my inspiration junk comforts and delights me the way it does and would never try to explain my piles to a non-junker. I know you understand. What's in your pile?

Heading to Oronoco MN tomorrow (August 14th), one of my fav flea markets! We will have a Junk Bonanza booth on Minnesota Avenue next to the Community Building in downtown Oronoco. Stop by to visit if you are in the neighborhood!

Peace,

Road to What Cheer Iowa Flea Market

2009-08-09T20:34:00.011-05:00

Jane, Sarah, and I were giddy as we drove out of Jane's driveway. Girls trip! Destination...What Cheer Iowa Flea Market. What's a junk adventure without a few side trips...

Jane tried to convince us she owned the town!

Ron and Susie, owners of Ms. Mac's Antiques, (Janesville MN) will be vendors at the Bonanza. We stopped in to say Hi! Check out some of their amazing junk below!

Jane couldn't leave without making a purchase.

Sarah couldn't pass up the cool rake! We hit more shops in Waseca MN and Clear Lake Iowa as we headed south.

Brenda welcomed us to her charming shop, JB Knackers just outside of Ames, Iowa. It was late in the day and jewelry class was in session. Wish we could have joined in, I have always wanted to learn to solder.

Brenda is also a Junk Bonanza vendor and is stocking up for the big event!

By the time we loaded our purchases into my truck and hit the road it was dark and beginning to rain. Exhausted, we landed at our hotel in Oskaloosa, Iowa close to midnight. Big day tomorrow! Sarah and Jane giggled and talked all night about junk...those girls! I do love girl junk trips!

Stay tuned. What Cheer Flea Market did not disappoint!
Peace,
Ki

Killer Junk!

2009-08-01T10:30:00.004-05:00

I just returned from a 2 day adventure, junking in Iowa with my buddies Jane and Sarah. I wasn't planning on buying anything...it was strictly a photo safari for me. The magnificent glider above was that thing I wasn't planning on buying. I couldn't resist. I know you would have done the same thing. Right?

I will do a full blown post about What Cheer flea market and all the great shops we visited along the way, including our last stop where I put down the camera and took out my wallet!

The killer glider will be for sale at Junk Bonanza ...I don't have anywhere to put it. At least I can own it for a little while. Tell me I am not crazy!
Peace
Ki

The Farm Chicks are heading to the Junk Bonanza!

2009-07-24T20:13:00.006-05:00

Recognize these gals? Yep, they are Serena & Teri, The Farm Chicks! I got a call yesterday from Serena confirming they are coming to the Junk Bonanza on September 17th in Shakopee Minnesota! They have graciously offered to sign their newest book, The Farm Chicks in the Kitchen, and join in the fun at our Happy Trails Meet and Greet Blog Party! Details to be announced next week.

Wait till you hear who else is showing up at the party! I can't wait to share more news!
Peace,
Ki

American Junk Idol

2009-07-18T11:04:00.012-05:00

You won't find me waiting in line for an autograph from Brad Pitt. I don't scream when I hear David Cook in concert, and I rarely go out of my way for a book signing. I am not easily impressed by celebrities. I am however, thoroughly in awe of my good friend and notorious junker, Cammie. She is an American Junk Idol. She knows good junk and she knows where to find it.

I have had the opportunity to ride along with Cammie, junking the back roads of Nebraska, South Dakota, and Iowa in search of the best America has to offer. How she finds some of the places...I don't ask. (That is privileged information.) She is trusted, respected, and well liked by her sources. Many don't understand why she would ever want their dirty, crusty, old junk and are grateful to have her haul it away.

When I am busy at my computer, Cammie is kind enough to let me junk vicariously through her. She treats me to live photos by phone and I feel as if I am right next to her, smelling the junk. Thank you Cammie! (Photos are courtesy of Cammie's recent excursion to Wendall's Junkyard.)

Check out her blog and you will learn how a real junker lives and breathes good junk. Tell her I sent you, I am hoping for a good deal on the truck door (above) she is bringing to the Bonanza!

Matthew and I are working like crazy on our new magazine, Flea Market Style! Will let you know as soon as the blog goes up so you can get an inside peek at making a magazine...bloopers and all!
Peace,
Ki

Sprinkler T.P. Holder Junk Project.

2009-07-16T12:02:00.005-05:00

Not so extreme makeover. Keep extra rolls close at hand!

When I looked at this sprinkler....

I saw a toilet paper holder. You too?
Peace,
Ki

A Door Opens. Flea Market Style.

2009-07-09T06:00:00.002-05:00

Standing in line at the grocery store a few days ago, I scanned the magazine racks for something interesting, entertaining, and inspiring to bring home. Nothing! I had already savored the 2 home decor magazines that interest me and was hungry for more. Sadly, my favorite publications have disappeared from the newsstands and my mailbox this past year, along with my job as editor-at-large for Country Home Magazine.

They say one door closes and another opens...well, it flew wide open! The big news I have been dying to share with you is..Matthew Mead, style expert and friend, and I are partnering to create and produce a new magazine titled Flea Market Style - a 144 page newsstand magazine chock full of vintage style decorating, fresh projects, collecting tips, special features and more, to be released early spring 2010. Whew! I didn't know how long I could keep a secret!

Matthew and I are thrilled to welcome some of the most talented folks we know to join our magazine team including Linda MacDonald of Restyled Home and Heather Bullard. We are also in the process of creating a blog dedicated to the making of the magazine (including bloopers) and will let you know as soon as we have it up and running, hopefully mid-August!

I will be crazy busy this summer with Junk Bonanza and Flea Market Style; so if you notice I am slacking off on my blog, it is only because I am working my butt off and having tons of fun!

I think I can say a new door just opened...a really big garage door!
Peace,
Ki

Road Trip. Oklahoma & Missouri.

2009-07-04T08:50:00.017-05:00

Bet you were wondering if we ever got home. Fortunately our road trip from Florida to Minnesota via Texas didn't take as long as it has taken me to blog about it!

Kerry and I allowed ourselves a mere 2 days to drive the last leg of our junkation, Tyler Texas to Long Lake Minnesota, so we had to speed junk along the way. (I am hoping for a do-over someday soon, so I can visit all the great shops and sales I know I missed.)

I was the navigator and kept my eyes peeled for billboards and signs broadcasting antiques and sales. Antiques Etc. 580-226-3490 in Ardmore Oklahoma proved to be a fruitful stop. My purchases included a brown pottery pitcher and bowl for the Bonanza and a Boy Scout merit badge sash.

We investigated historic downtown Purcell Oklahoma on a hot, humid, and sleepy Saturday afternoon. We found more than 8 charming and friendly antique shops to visit.

Folks along the way enthusiastically shared their must see towns and shops. Guthrie Oklahoma was mentioned more than once.

Discovering Guthrie was like going back in time. The city is alive with shops, theatre, trolleys, & horse drawn carriage rides and has preserved the rich heritage and unique history as the first state capital of Oklahoma.

While chatting with the gals at Recollections 405-260-0101 we found that Casey Affleck, Jessica Alba, and Kate Hudson were in town shooting a movie The Killer Inside Me. We learned that the production had purchased antique furniture and props locally and when finished with them would auction back to the community. Great idea!

Hungry, we asked where to eat and were directed to the Boneyard Grill 405-293-9615.

Yummy recommendation!

The bugs had taken over our windshield and the trip just kept getting better, as you will see!

Jim's Antique Mall in Bethany Missouri 660-425-6020 was recommended by a Junk Revolution member (Artifacts and Architecture). As we drove up, my heart skipped a beat. A junker's delight!!

Are you still breathing? What was I thinking driving in with a loaded vehicle. I told Dean I would be back this summer...with an empty trailer.

Sorry for the out of focus picture. My hands were trembling as I eyed this area in the far corner of the shop.

We were still full from breakfast, but knew from the Junk Revolution message boards that Toot Toot located just off I-35 on Hwy.136 (right down the road from Jim's) was a must eat stop. So we did! Stop and eat. The lunch buffet with mash potatoes, gravy, fried chicken, ham,...you get the picture. Yum!

Small world. When we returned home I noticed the turquoise wood trunk I had my eye on at Jim's and was planning to go back and purchase, showed up on a Bonanza vendor's blog. It is coming to the Bonanza...just not with me.

Had a incredible time with Matthew Mead in New Hampshire this past week. Can't wait to share my visit with you!
Peace,
Ki

Road Trip. Mineola & Gladewater Texas.

2009-06-23T14:47:00.019-05:00

Just can't get enough junk! An exhilarating day in Canton was just the first course. Margo was about to serve up up some of the best junking in Texas. We convinced our hubbies to come along. Roger, Kerry, Margo, and I headed out to Mineola & Gladewater Texas. On the way, we stopped at Latif's Antiques in Tyler 903-882-6031...Man oh man...

Margo explained...If you see his van in the parking lot, he is open. You must ring the door bell and he will let you in. We had the whole place to ourselves.

As we walked through the front door I immediately zeroed in on the punch time clock, similar to the one Sue and I found at Kane County Flea years ago. Perfect condition and a bit larger than most I have seen since. I could tell this was going to be fun!

Margo headed straight for the drawers filled with junk bits and pieces.

I admired this vintage chandelier.

A very unusual lampshade was calling my name.

My heart was pounding as we sifted through boxes and shelves of some of the most unusual antiques and junk I have ever seen in one building.

I attempted to play a Flutophone in grade school..I always wondered what happened to all those instruments...still hiding in kid's lockers?

We had lots more junking to do and the guys were getting hungry so we had to pack 'er up!

I couldn't leave without the chandelier. The box was filled with a million crystals. I am dreading cleaning and re-assembly.

You suggested we eat at the East Texas Burger Co. in Mineola! Roger, Margo, and Burger Boy posing. Lunch was delicious!

Kerry and I had hamburgers, onion rings and sweet potato fries. MMMmm!

The town of Mineola is filled with charming antique and gift shops.

My husband still hungry...decided to purchase a fried pie for dessert. It was on the honor system and it seemed to be working.

Wish this guy could come home with me.

I might know a soccer player who would like this sign.

After checking out a garage sale in Mineola, we stopped at several interesting shops including a real junk shop! Mineola Traders (just outside of town) 903-569-1404 Five dollars on the soda crates (pop crates, if you are from Minnesota), and there was plenty to choose from.

Project?

As delighted I was to see the honor system alive and well, I was thoroughly disgusted to see this sign...Oh come on, do folks really spit in the trash by the front desk?

Rebecca was so kind to host a little get-together at her shop in Gladewater. Rebecca's Antiques and Collectibles 903-844-9650 You may recognize her famous pup. It was so much fun to meet everyone and do a little shopping in her charming store. (I just realized I need a new bra after looking at this photo...man I gotta pull myself together.)

We visited with Reba in her wonderful shop, Red Rooster Antiques, just down the street. 903-844-9240 I learned the town of Gladewater holds the title, Antique Capital of East Texas. Wish we would have had more time to check out all the shops.

Dinner back in Tyler....I had been craving Mexican for days!

Thanks to Margo, junk tour guide exception ale, and our patient husbands, the day was extraordinary! Notice she is wearing the official Junk Bonanza tee...thank you Margo!

I've been told I need to hit Athens and Malakoff on my next trip to Texas. Sounds good to me!

Be sure to check out Seabold Vintage Market on Junk Revolution's Gallery Page. Liz has an amazing junk style...so fresh and simple!

I am taking a short break from posting as I am heading to New Hampshire to spend some time with Matthew Mead. We are working on an exciting new project. I can't wait to share the scoop with you when I return along with the last leg of my road trip. Tyler Texas to Long Lake Minnesota.
Peace,
Ki

My Dad.

2009-06-21T07:49:00.004-05:00

"It is a beautiful day on the farm!" My dad is a happy man. He taught me how to appreciate life despite its tragedies, pain, set backs, and inconveniences. He is my model for enjoying the journey. I've been told I look at life through rose colored glasses. My dad gave them those glasses when I was a little girl. He taught me life is a precious gift and to never take it for granted.

My dad is a wise man. Glad I listened to him. It is a beautiful day on the farm!

Peace,

Road Trip. Canton Texas.

2009-06-12T21:34:00.007-05:00

First Monday Trade Days in Canton Texas happens once a month, well sort of. It can be kind of confusing cause it doesn't actually happen on a Monday as its name states. Just think of it this way. Canton Trade Days is open Thursday through Sunday before the first Monday of every month. Get it?

The town of Canton, (population 5,124) grows to become the 7th largest city in Texas every month during the event, averaging over 300,000 visitors. First Monday Trades Days is the oldest and largest flea market in the world!

If you have been following my blog, you know that my trip from Ocala Florida to Minnesota included a Texas detour to visit my good friend, Margo, and do a little junking in Canton.

My husband Kerry was a trooper to hang in there with us the entire day. He doesn't consider himself a junker, however enjoys visiting with the friendly vendors and shoppers.

The guy with the camera is Allen Arrick. Yep, Margo's son. Allen, photographer extraordinaire, was shooting his first, flea market assignment. Discussing junk and light at The Porch where I met Renee and Becky.

Unfortunately, I didn't get photos of all the wonderful folks we met that day so I apologize for not mentioning everyone.

Maggie from the Veranda was incredibly kind to throw a little get together for fellow bloggers and junkers, many of whom I have followed online.

Margo, Susie, & me . Susie and I have chatted for years over the phone about her wonderful product, Vintage Textile Soak. First time we actually hugged.

Teresa Garden Antiques, Nancy Ella Elaine, Eilean, Donna Curious Goods, Margo Robolady, and me.

I have heard so much about Judy Hill and her amazing sale, I was excited to finally meet her. Judy, Gloria Sweet Pea ,Margo, Maggie The Veranda, me, & Joy. (Joy makes the most fabulous oyster shell mirrors.)

Looks like Minnesota junk to me!

I made her do it! She will totally hate me for posting...Sorry Margo.

Terri with Unique Antiques was a refreshing breeze of energy in the sultry mid afternoon. I love vintage linens.

I hate to iron.

Margo's friend and fellow vendor, Donna, swears by Vintage Textile Soak.

Hanging out in the shade Sky, Susan, Eilean , me, Margo, & Nancy.

Too heavy to haul home, but tempting.

Too big to haul home, but tempting.

Too dirty to haul home, but tempting.

Too silly to haul home, tempting? The Cotton Patch girls!

Have always wanted to remodel and add a sink in the hallway.

Absolutely too heavy to haul home.

I was thinking Junk Bonanza. Ideas for repurposing, anyone?

Cool ship's throttle.

I own a red Burma Shave sign and it's on display in my family room. I was naturally attracted to this booth filled with carnival items. It turned out Garland, aka Dad, was helping out his daughter, Mandie Murphree, by selling some of her cool carnival stash in his booth. Check out The Shop Antiques. According to her dad, Mandie has quite the inventory!

We got to eat a funnel cake for breakfast...a little greasy, but yummy!

Just outside the Porch I found this treasure wanting to go home with me. Did I mention my truck was full before I got to Texas? It was like being on a junk diet. I was starving and I couldn't satisfy my appetite!

According to Donna Bookout, she is a collector and lover of all things that jingle or glitter! Donna has been a vendor at Canton since 1970. She said when the booth rent was raised from $3. to $5. she had 2nd thoughts about continuing. She credits her staying power to her wonderful family, customers, and fellow vendors that have supported her over the years. Love you Donna.

Who is this person and where is she now?

Say cheese...again. Margo, Lilly Junk Palace. Donna Curious Goods, me, & Rhonda. (The milk glass vase and cool cash register number 4 at the beginning of this post belongs to Lilly.)

My dad is a Shriner. I own a fez or two.

Love Donna's junk jewels and wild creations! (I get you, Donna.)

At the end of the day when we thought we couldn't take one more step, Linda Hatfield, City of Canton operations supervisor, picked us up in her official looking golf cart and took us on a delightful tour of the grounds! She answered all of my questions about Canton including "Why doesn't First Monday Trade Days take place on Monday?"

More Texas junkin' stories and pics to come. We visited some of Margo's favorite junk hot spots the very next day. Never too tired to junk!
Peace,
Ki

Road Trip. Mississippi.

2009-06-08T10:45:00.006-05:00

I spent many a Friday night with my high school buddies at the local drive-in theatre. The drive-in seems to have disappeared along with our favorite hangouts, the Main Street tastee freeze and bowling alley.

We ran across this amazing landmark named after my mom, Beverley, in Hattiesburg Mississippi. It is for sale and would make a wonderful flea market venue. Any buyers out there?

Just down the street, Hwy 49 South, I spied Marketplace Antiques & Frenchie's Flea Market (601-544-6644) and decided to check it out. I wasn't surprised when I saw this drive-in movie speaker for sale.

Kerry waited in the car as I cruised over 200 booths in this very large antique mall. Realizing I could be a while, he came inside to explore with me.

The auditorium chairs were in the back, the flea market area, and I was told the vendor had over 500 to pick from @ $20. each.

This historic train depot bench was priced a titch higher...

The sign above reads:
No trespassing on this farm. No sitting on or climbing fences or going through them. No climbing on buildings.... you get the idea...I get the impression the property owner was a little annoyed with folks when he scribbled out this warning.

Our stomachs were beginning to grumble. I advised my husband that I couldn't possibly eat another meal served under the Golden Arches. He recommended we look for a quirky hole-in-the-wall restaurant with a barbecue sign and a parking lot filled with cars. It didn't take us very long to find just that! Shady Acres in Seminary, Mississippi on Hwy 49. (601-722-4130)

I didn't try the crawfish...but I did chow down a pulled pork barbecue sandwich. Mm mm.

If the sign said antiques...we stopped! Jerry and Ann Kukor welcomed us to their charming shop in Magee, Mississippi on Hwy 49 and Ann gave us a tour of her beautiful watercolor paintings she has for sale. (601-797-4393)

No room in the truck for this rockin' juke box...

My bumper sticker says I brake for junk...that includes trash as well!

Trash and Treasure on Hwy 49 in Mendenhall Mississippi was an adventure in junk! A little more digging than your average mall, but the great prices made it worth it! (601-847-6700)

Love the ashtray by the front door! Not for sale.

My husband spotted this treasure and we were able to find it a spot in the truck! Yippee!

Kerry and I met so many wonderful people on our 2nd day of travel and saw the coolest junk! We arrived at the Arricks, our hosts, in Tyler Texas late that evening. We had to rest up for a busy next day in Canton Texas! Can't wait to tell you all about it!
Peace,
Ki