There are certain things I’m always on the hunt for in antique stores…ironstone, cool scales, French chairs, etc., but the rest of the pieces I buy are ones that speak to me.  It’s hard for me to explain it, but I just know when I see a special piece.  It has a character about it, a patina, a color, a style.  Some pieces are kind of close, but don’t hit the mark.  Other are spot on.  For me, this antique hose reel was spot on. I saw it hanging on the wall in an antique store.  The chippy blue paint was what jumped out at me first, then the delicate metal wheels, then the overall interesting shape.  When hung on the wall, this once-utilitarian piece looked like art.     When I’m looking for pieces to resell and use as photography props, I’ve learned that I need to trust my

I have been methodically collecting furniture to makeover for the next MMSMP look book and for the Chapel Market in October.  It seems like a long way away, but I’ve learned that I shop smarter when I have plenty of time.  So, I’ve been trolling Craig’s List for pieces and scored a third empire piece… …and it’s a beauty!  It’s very sturdy and comes with some pretty hardware and the original key, which is pretty rare.  The curve of the top drawers is really cool.  I love craftsmanship like that. The top is pretty badly scratched, so it’s going to be stripped down (just the top) and then I’ll go from there.  I know it will be a challenge, but I’m picturing white for this piece… We’ll see how that goes! A few weeks ago, Jeff asked me a question that stopped me in my tracks.  “What is something you

** I’ve had a lot of inquiries from wonderful people offering the piano a good home and I believe it has found one.  Thanks so much to all who were interested! ** Yep, you read the title right.  I am offering our 100+ year old upright piano for free.  If you read my book, you know the story behind the piano.  For those who haven’t or need a refresher, Jeff gave me this piano.  I grew up in a musical family and I’ve wanted a piano for a long time.  When we moved to this area almost 8 years ago, one surfaced at a church yard sale.  It was $300, which was more money we had to spend on something that wasn’t groceries or diapers.  I looked a the posted picture and sighed, knowing we just couldn’t swing it. A few days later, Jeff was working late and being very