The Extravaganza

Who WOULD'NT want to go to an "Extravaganza"? It sounds so....... extravagant? So the Springfield Extravaganza, let me tell you. It is a dust-lovers paradise. It is obviously in Springfield, Ohio with more vendors sprawling over the fairgrounds than you could ever see on a typical weekend. It is nationally known for having the best of the best when it comes to odd finds, vintage collectibles and about anything else you can imagine. I will tell you a couple of my favorites!

One booth had nothing but mountains of old quilts and linens. I can hear your trepidation already! Bed bugs Emma?! Are you crazy? Okay, if you are concerned (which I was not) bag it up multiple times and throw it in the wash when you get home. But if you can see through the cloud of bug spray, let me tell you why these old relics are magical.

I found quite a few pieces that were hand sewn, they included the dates on them... many like 1902, or 1910. They have so much character!! So much more than any you would find in a store today! You can frame them, make throw pillows out of them, and use them as bed spreads or throws! They even had old dresses turned into aprons! I just love aprons.. I tie them on and dance around the kitchen rolling out pies and making noodles! Totally kidding. I like spaghetti and Marie Calendars pies, but I also like aprons and channeling my inner Betty, Martha, and Julia when I make something out the box (and not the pre-made boxes... )

There are old signs in plentiful supply, old chalkboards and jars galore. There are so many crates, luggage pieces, and furniture do-dads that you cannot nearly see them all. I make it my personal mission to track down any piece of old wood that has any kind of drawers or cubbies and inspect each one. Most of the time these gems fetch a pretty penny but curiosity gets me.

Prices are really all over the place. I caught myself a few times telling the sellers "Your prices are really wonderful!" when I enjoyed their items but saw nothing I just HAD to have! Then I would be in another vendors booth trying not to breathe too heavy in fear something might break and I would be responsible for it. Yikes!

My final purchase were minimal, but perfect for my needs! I got a pair of old wooden theatre chairs, a pair of ceramic birds, a metal wall organizer, and a metal stool with the small steps beneath.

Vendors and buyers from all over the US flock to be a part of the show, whether it be to profit or pour out their pockets. Perhaps a little bit of both. But on that beautiful day in May, I went with my mom and if I had walked away with my pockets full and no relics to show for my time, it would have still been time best spent. We laughed, we ate, and my mom even entertained my crazy decorating ideas.  We went home with dirty shoes and a full van load, and a million memories. Its amazing the antiques and even the not so tangible treasures you may find in a flea market!

Love you most Mom. Thank you for the day.

Boxes, and Tape and Paper OH MY!

Move they said.. It will be fun they said. I am about a solid week in to the new-old homestead and I have just now found my hair dryer. I think my hair was about a day away from becoming permanently piled high on top of my head in a bun. I apologize for the visual.

We boxed, we labeled, we taped, and we called in the troops. We were so grateful to have the St. J crew and my parents drive in for the big haul. The kids were the major job! I don't know if I thought through to the extreme nature of moving. It all seemed so dreamy: new paint, new clean carpets, so many projects!!! But now: SO. MANY. PROJECTS.

I had these rose colored glasses on when I started taking on furniture projects. I still love them. They are like my little babies... But little did I know that this gorgeous, remarkable house would be one. giant. baby.

The house is in fabulous shape: new windows, updated electric, well insulated, two furnaces, and more! My parents poured years into this home and she shows it! There are reconditioned hardwood floors that my dad brought back to life... and beautiful decorating in every room. My parents have fully loved this home, and now it is our turn!

With every box we unpack, and every item that finds its home (at least temporarily) our dreams just keep growing. I hope if you are passing by the house you enjoy seeing the new life that is swarming around! There will be little bikes zooming on the black top again and a little girl picking flowers...Of course one giant black schnauzer basking in the sun will probably greet you with affection if you decide to stop in for a spell.

The front porch will always be open, and the swing will always be free. I can promise a glass of lemonade or tea, but give me some time on the snack.. I just can't seem to find the box that holds my desire to cook just yet. I am sure it will show up soon enough! Happy Memorial Day All!!