tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-63688611990225568292024-03-13T23:26:43.095-04:00Ranch Dressing Handmade and VintageA blog about the art and designs of Angie Nelson and life on The Junk RanchAngie @ thejunkranch http://www.blogger.com/profile/16378799206313610380noreply@blogger.comBlogger194125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6368861199022556829.post-1530696094214484032014-09-18T12:54:00.003-04:002015-01-06T15:21:38.641-05:00How Did I Become the Candle Lady?...and What is Up for 2015?<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-C0U52ls-hK4/VBnz9phna3I/AAAAAAAADsY/twsBHcRX-J8/s1600/IMG_2982.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-C0U52ls-hK4/VBnz9phna3I/AAAAAAAADsY/twsBHcRX-J8/s1600/IMG_2982.JPG" height="320" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Pottin' Shed soy candle hand poured at The Junk Ranch</td></tr>
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It seems like I've become known now as the "candle lady" around these parts. I do love making them, burning them, and sharing them with friends and family.</div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><span style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-QLa34QTX0mw/VBn1ZpY7wTI/AAAAAAAADsg/EpishYR0lMo/s1600/early%2Bfloorcloth_edited.jpg" height="300" width="400" /></span></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Me in 1990 I believe sitting on an early floorcloth design</td></tr>
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As I logged into <a href="https://www.facebook.com/TheJunkRanch" target="_blank">my Facebook page</a> this morning to post something about...yep, candles...I noticed that I had hit 2800 LIKES. Not bad for a neglected page, but it also hit me that all the new members knew was that I am a candle maker. Not that there is anything wrong with that, but...<br />
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For a while I've been feeling a little lost. I'm currently stretched so thin I am not really sure what it is that I DO anymore.<br />
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When I started this<a href="http://ranchdressingcowgirlstyle.blogspot.com/2009/09/what-is-ranch-dressing.html" target="_blank"> little junk business </a>in 2009, I got into it in a big way if you will remember. I wanted to make a change from being a <a href="http://ranchdressingcowgirlstyle.blogspot.com/2010/07/worktable-wednesday.html" target="_blank">floorcloth designer and artist for over 20 years.</a>..I wanted to fly by the seat of my pants and do something different every day...and I have. The junk biz has evolved and changed over the years. Bigger some years than others or not at all at times...like now.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-2_RpWshsaLs/VBn2R-vvV-I/AAAAAAAADso/JPME5irfhlY/s1600/Lee%2Band%2BTraci's%2Bbooth.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-2_RpWshsaLs/VBn2R-vvV-I/AAAAAAAADso/JPME5irfhlY/s1600/Lee%2Band%2BTraci's%2Bbooth.JPG" height="300" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">2nd Annual Spring Country Marketplace here at the ranch</td></tr>
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I've had <a href="http://ranchdressingcowgirlstyle.blogspot.com/2011/04/1st-annual-springtime-at-ranch.html" target="_blank">occasional sales</a> on my own, <a href="http://ranchdressingcowgirlstyle.blogspot.com/2013/05/vintage-rentalthe-total-package.html" target="_blank">hosted vendor sales</a> here on the farm with friends and business acquaintances, added a vintage rental option to my shop, had many <a href="http://ranchdressingcowgirlstyle.blogspot.com/2012/10/breathing-again.html" target="_blank">antique booths </a>, and sold things on Ebay, Etsy and Craigslist. I even hosted a <a href="http://ranchdressingcowgirlstyle.blogspot.com/2011/01/highlights-from-junk-workshop.html" target="_blank">junk workshop</a> and filled my little studio up with wall to wall people resulting in really cool and innovative functional art pieces. I think I may have even inspired a handful of my girlfriends to start their own junk businesses!<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-mjh_kgBhGmw/UT3fuchBB4I/AAAAAAAADQY/BweYssn5NMs/s1600/IMG_0235.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-mjh_kgBhGmw/UT3fuchBB4I/AAAAAAAADQY/BweYssn5NMs/s1600/IMG_0235.JPG" height="300" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Junk Camp 101</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-LvWowXySf0Y/UPQ0F0oPAaI/AAAAAAAADJY/5h9Ryh06YZA/s1600/2012%2B10%2B23_1085%2Bcopy.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-LvWowXySf0Y/UPQ0F0oPAaI/AAAAAAAADJY/5h9Ryh06YZA/s1600/2012%2B10%2B23_1085%2Bcopy.jpg" height="400" width="300" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">My sweet studio and shop</td></tr>
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<tr><td><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-VGCtrtgwxKA/VBo6iFaIFhI/AAAAAAAADtI/wExcjn-BOL4/s1600/IMG_0161.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-VGCtrtgwxKA/VBo6iFaIFhI/AAAAAAAADtI/wExcjn-BOL4/s1600/IMG_0161.JPG" height="400" width="298" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption">My shop's candle corner</td></tr>
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But for the last year, for the most part, I've just made soy candles. Lots of candles. I never intended to do this, but it happened. Sometimes it bothers me, knowing that I'm capable of much more, but yet I do this....well, it doesn't bother me too much...but, </div>
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I have made candles because: </div>
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#1 I enjoy it and I personally burn candles daily</div>
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#2 I give them as gifts and donations. </div>
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#3 I have great customers that continue to buy them</div>
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#4 That's all I can manage to do right now that remotely looks like the Junk Ranch is still alive.</div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-s1SArsOJfNE/URlUlbQcZlI/AAAAAAAADMM/sG3u09fHB_Y/s1600/2013%2B02%2B02_1491.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-s1SArsOJfNE/URlUlbQcZlI/AAAAAAAADMM/sG3u09fHB_Y/s1600/2013%2B02%2B02_1491.JPG" height="300" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Once upon a tine, I had wayyy to much stuff. This is only the front half of the shop a couple years ago</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-H6tgJjyJzCc/UIlOIEnpPAI/AAAAAAAADHU/VzQRVseR9ac/s1600/2012%2B10%2B23_1114%2Bcopy.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-H6tgJjyJzCc/UIlOIEnpPAI/AAAAAAAADHU/VzQRVseR9ac/s1600/2012%2B10%2B23_1114%2Bcopy.jpg" height="400" width="300" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">I love to style merchandise and photos!<span style="text-align: left;"><br /></span><br />
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<span style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-size: small;">Not many people remember, or maybe never knew, but before I became an artist I was an interior designer. After getting my degree, I worked for several years in High Point working in showrooms and with residential clients. When I became a mom, we decided that I should be a work at home mom and my floorcloth business was started. I had a few design jobs during my art career, but nothing major. There wasn't time. I had a great 20+ year run designing and hand painting floorcloths for clients all over the US. In 2009, I decided to switch gears and try to do more interior design as the handmade/vintage industry was beginning to boom. It was a natural transition, considering we have lived this way in our own home for nearly 30 years. </span></span></div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-6b-EW0v3jME/VBsI0_spS_I/AAAAAAAADtY/HpV4daboY3s/s1600/IMG_0279.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-6b-EW0v3jME/VBsI0_spS_I/AAAAAAAADtY/HpV4daboY3s/s1600/IMG_0279.JPG" height="400" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">A peek at some of the old pick wick boards in our daughter's cottage</td></tr>
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I love design and color and space planning. I'm finally getting my fill these days while working on our <a href="http://ranchdressingcowgirlstyle.blogspot.com/search/label/The%20Renovation" target="_blank">daughter's house</a>; a small little 70 year old cottage near my parents' home. Working on her house has inspired me to work on our own as well. The cobbler's kids have no shoes...and parts of our home looks like it did at the turn of the century. </div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-yQrTRn4NXD0/UIlOKhe7PQI/AAAAAAAADHc/NP1H36Op5Bg/s1600/2012%2B10%2B23_1115%2Bcopy.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-yQrTRn4NXD0/UIlOKhe7PQI/AAAAAAAADHc/NP1H36Op5Bg/s1600/2012%2B10%2B23_1115%2Bcopy.jpg" height="300" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Did I mention pet portraits?...did that too</td></tr>
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Being a shop keeper, booth vendor, candle maker, wife, mama, caretaker for 4 dogs and 2 cats and 2 horses, vegetable gardener, herb gardener and house keeper has completely frazzled me!...and now we have Erin's house renovation to finish.<br />
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Being a one-woman show is no longer important to me. Having it all has left me missing my favorite things in life:<br />
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*spending time with my family and friends...<br />
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* sketching and painting...<br />
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*decorating our own house...and enjoying relaxing there</div>
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*riding my horse...</div>
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*actually, using <i>all </i>of the vegetables and herbs I grow</div>
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....and lots more if I continue to peck...</div>
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What I'm getting to is...I'm about to move on to the next big thing. ME. </div>
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I'm doing it without guilt. I'm doing it without permission or validation from anyone else. I'm just doing it. I will continue to make and sell a few candles. We will finish the renovation and we will have a nice holiday season.</div>
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The new blog will be more concise and clean...and more the ME I am today...or the one I'm at least striving to be. We are re-learning (is that a real word?) to live simply here in our little corner of the world and I am excited to share on a more personal level the things I love and what I do on a daily basis. Not that it's all that exciting, but it should be somewhat more interesting...tutuorials, DIY, gardening, home keeping, animal keeping...you know, just life here on the farm, but with the same cowgirl spirit that started this blog in the first place. </div>
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So, for now, until the end of the year...I am the candle lady. In 2015 I am just Angie. See you soon!</div>
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UPDATE: This is my last post here...continue on to <a href="http://www.thejunkranch.com/" target="_blank">The JunkRanch </a> to the new website.</h2>
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<br />Angie @ thejunkranch http://www.blogger.com/profile/16378799206313610380noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6368861199022556829.post-21930886589451823942014-09-17T16:09:00.002-04:002014-09-17T21:10:33.734-04:00Limited Edition Autumn Harvest Soy Candles<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Autumn Harvest Soy Candles Limited Edition</td></tr>
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Fall officially arrives in five days. I've been burning my Pumpkin Souffle candle since Labor Day. I just couldn't wait. This is my favorite candle burning season. I absolutely love smelling the spices associated with Fall.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-fhfdU85kyZc/VBnhK-AxLVI/AAAAAAAADro/G-SBEZPvY0A/s1600/IMG_0286.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-fhfdU85kyZc/VBnhK-AxLVI/AAAAAAAADro/G-SBEZPvY0A/s1600/IMG_0286.JPG" height="320" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Autumn Harvest Collection Pour</td></tr>
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This collection smells like a country kitchen. Making them was a heavenly experience. Each day when I would come in from the studio I could smell the <i>day's work </i>in my hair and on my clothes. Each day, I smelled like butter and spices. OMG! </div>
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This year, we have our two best sellers, <b><i>Pumpkin Souffle</i></b> and <i style="font-weight: bold;">Buttered Rum </i>along with three new scrumptious fragrances...<i style="font-weight: bold;">Maple Nut Fudge, Pumpkin Applebutter, </i>and<i style="font-weight: bold;"> Sweet Potato Pie.</i><br />
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You can almost taste these candles! <i style="font-weight: bold;">Maple Nut Fudge </i>is a tempting blend of nutty walnut, maple, vanilla, cinnamon and chocolate with just a sweet surprise...a touch of tangerine. </div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Pumpkin Apple Butter</td></tr>
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I can't say that I've ever eaten <i style="font-weight: bold;">Pumpkin Apple Butter, </i>but now I am more likely to start hunting down a recipe! Imagine notes of orange, apple, pear, pineapple and cherries; middle notes of pumpkin, cinnamon, nutmeg and clove with base notes of warm vanilla. Well, there you have it...only better in real life.<br />
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My oh my...What do you get when you combine candied yams, marshmallow cream, brown sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, orange zest, a splash of lemon and buttery southern crust? <b><i>Sweet Potato Pie.</i></b><span style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18px;"> </span><br />
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This is a limited edition pour and I will stock them until Thanksgiving or until they are gone. All five fragrances come in 8 oz. and 16 oz mason jars. Pumpkin Souffle and Buttered Rum are also available in assorted Pyrex cups as in past seasons. Don't wait. Enjoy them now! </div>
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You can purchase candles from me here at the studio by appointment or have them shipped to your door </div>
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from<i style="font-weight: bold;"> Charmed, </i>3407 D Archdale Rd. Archdale NC</div>
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Angie @ thejunkranch http://www.blogger.com/profile/16378799206313610380noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6368861199022556829.post-90588255433998228942014-09-17T15:27:00.001-04:002014-09-17T21:26:33.424-04:00Coffee Collection Soy Candles <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Coffee scented soy candles at the Junk Ranch<br />
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The coffee is ready....</div>
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My new coffee soy candle collection is ready and smelling up the studio with the most wonderful rich aromas of coffee beans, hazelnut and vanilla...and that's just the cold throw. This is another thing I love about soy wax; it smells as good just sitting there as it does lit. Cold, they offer a light scent within a few feet. Lighted, the scent throw definitely fills a large room and in some instances, several.</div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">When just poured they look like the real deal</td></tr>
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The coffee collection consists of three customer favorites...the first being<i><b> Hazelnut Coffee.</b></i> Not much I can say here to describe it other than mouth watering. If you are a coffee lover this is classic. </div>
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The second one, I call <b><i>Cup'A Joe</i></b>. It smells just like it sounds...like a strong cup of fresh brewed coffee.</div>
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And, lastly, there is <b><i>French Vanilla Latte</i></b>, for the Starbucks crowd. It's a good balance of expresso and vanilla.</div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-wyhowV2jGdU/VBnVAwrMbcI/AAAAAAAADqc/kOUdLsTFM0Q/s1600/IMG_0294%2B(2).JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-wyhowV2jGdU/VBnVAwrMbcI/AAAAAAAADqc/kOUdLsTFM0Q/s1600/IMG_0294%2B(2).JPG" height="400" width="153" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">4 oz. soy candles in coffee fragrances</td></tr>
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They are available in various coffee mugs, cups and 4 ounce jars..that are actually nice to take with you when you travel.<br />
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Ru862Lqf_ME/VBo0i8xR9kI/AAAAAAAADs4/fKKHfH6lsTI/s1600/IMG_0327.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Ru862Lqf_ME/VBo0i8xR9kI/AAAAAAAADs4/fKKHfH6lsTI/s1600/IMG_0327.JPG" height="400" width="298" /></a></div>
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These are now available year round as well as our summer favorite <a href="http://ranchdressingcowgirlstyle.blogspot.com/2014/06/southern-summer-collection-soy-candles.html" target="_blank">Sippin' Sweet Tea. </a></div>
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You can purchase candles from me here at the studio by appointment or have them shipped to your door </div>
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from<i style="font-weight: bold;"> Charmed, </i>3407 D Archdale Rd. Archdale NC</div>
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Angie @ thejunkranch http://www.blogger.com/profile/16378799206313610380noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6368861199022556829.post-64136065178594188422014-06-20T12:05:00.004-04:002014-06-20T12:11:35.230-04:00Things Go Better With Coke<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-xpXcDNUODQU/U6ROwxKGyEI/AAAAAAAADpk/hez2B_6msE0/s1600/vintage+coke+sign.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-xpXcDNUODQU/U6ROwxKGyEI/AAAAAAAADpk/hez2B_6msE0/s1600/vintage+coke+sign.jpg" height="297" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">My cool birthday present from my husband this year</td></tr>
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This week I celebrated my 54th birthday. All I can say is that 54 is not as old as it used to be! Fortunately, I'm healthy, strong and able to do most things I've always done, including driving without glasses and reading most of the time without my drugstore "readers". I still feel like I always have, if not better some days. I think my 30's and early 40's were harder in some ways.<br />
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I've decided that I honestly like getting older. With age comes wisdom, "they" say. I'll take that. And, with age, comes a little more free time. I'll take some of that too! That part, is actually in my control and I'm learning to stop over committing my time to every "good idea" I have....maybe that's the wisdom kicking in.<br />
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I'm looking forward to the year ahead and hopefully more of that wisdom will help me to stay focused on my priorities. Once we're finished with the<a href="http://ranchdressingcowgirlstyle.blogspot.com/2014/06/in-case-you-were-wondering.html" target="_blank"> renovation at our daughter's house</a> I want to start working on our place. Over the last few years I've neglected our home in order to give my all to building my new brand, <a href="http://ranchdressingcowgirlstyle.blogspot.com/p/the-junk-ranch.html" target="_blank">The Junk Ranch.</a> I've bought and sold some of the best pieces I've ever had, in order to offer the best to my customers.<br />
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Now, it's my turn to work my magic here at home. Taking on the renovation project forced me to rein myself in from being so over extended in my business. <a href="http://ranchdressingcowgirlstyle.blogspot.com/2014/06/its-not-official-until-its-facebook.html" target="_blank">I'm happy for now, just as things are</a>.<br />
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I know life will continue to evolve as I continue to grow older and I wouldn't be happy if it were any other way....oh, and the sign at the top of this post...my birthday gift this year from my husband. I LOVE it!! That's a great piece of rust and a great piece of our local history. It's now on the side of the studio under a shed where it will be seen but out of the elements.<br />
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So, in conclusion...with age comes wisdom, time and greater appreciation for other old things!!<br />
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<br />Angie @ thejunkranch http://www.blogger.com/profile/16378799206313610380noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6368861199022556829.post-73055927780338031492014-06-12T12:41:00.001-04:002014-07-24T13:40:08.497-04:00It's not official until it's Facebook official<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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I guess there must be some truth to that!...putting "it" on Facebook makes "it" official...and I haven't made an official statement there about the changes happening here at the ranch...until today with a link to this blog entry.<br />
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I had a nice couple stop by over the weekend wanting to shop and only found that my shop has reverted back to mostly a working art studio with a very small sales space<a href="http://ranchdressingcowgirlstyle.blogspot.com/2014/06/southern-summer-collection-soy-candles.html" target="_blank"> reserved for candles</a>, handmade gifts and small vintage items. I hated to disappoint them and I guess I expect that everyone will look at <a href="http://ranchdressingcowgirlstyle.blogspot.com/p/the-junk-ranch.html" target="_blank">my website</a> for information. My bad! I also am sorry, some others are disappointed that my shop isn't what it used to be, but as time evolves, needs change and we change, hopefully for the better.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-WImCoFhv-vM/U5nJRVOiavI/AAAAAAAADo4/BMYRHspLlYA/s1600/IMG_0160.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-WImCoFhv-vM/U5nJRVOiavI/AAAAAAAADo4/BMYRHspLlYA/s1600/IMG_0160.JPG" height="400" width="298" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Candle lab added to studio</td></tr>
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In the back of my shop, I added doors around the first of the February, to screen off an area to use as a downstairs candle lab. This is working so much better than running up and down stairs with armloads of things that need to be washed. I love having the extra space upstairs as well! It's nice having lots of areas designated to specific tasks. I'm very fortunate...some (my husband) would say "spoiled"...at any rate I'm grateful!<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">2014 Southern Summer Collection</td></tr>
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I have just enough space left in the front to showcase candles and handmade gifts. </div>
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For those that don't already know...I'm not doing occasional sales here this year or keeping shop. I've had so many tell me they missed our spring marketplace sale. I did too, but I didn't miss what it takes to put that together...but thank you so much for telling me. I appreciate your support and kind words!<br />
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My time is consumed this year with <a href="http://ranchdressingcowgirlstyle.blogspot.com/2014/06/in-case-you-were-wondering.html" target="_blank">the renovation of our daughter's house,</a> and the normal day to day of taking care of things here on the farm and the animals. I'm living the life I always wanted, although it's hard work every day. Now the garden is exploding and I will add that to my list for the next month or so. </div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-7CF0flATTs4/U5nJVHteelI/AAAAAAAADpM/0b1cHp7rWNw/s1600/IMG_0163.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-7CF0flATTs4/U5nJVHteelI/AAAAAAAADpM/0b1cHp7rWNw/s1600/IMG_0163.JPG" height="342" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Pulled out the peas yesterday...now the peppers can take off </td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-_KNxdZmoBhA/U5nJMD1QFzI/AAAAAAAADo0/ec3Ggd-PHbM/s1600/IMG_0162.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-_KNxdZmoBhA/U5nJMD1QFzI/AAAAAAAADo0/ec3Ggd-PHbM/s1600/IMG_0162.JPG" height="361" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The corn has grown several feet in the last week</td></tr>
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When I was a little girl, I always knew I wanted to have a little farm and live a simple life. Simple doesn't mean easy or completely stress free, but it does offer satisfaction at the end of the day and I sleep really well! </div>
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There are days when I would like to dress in something fashionable, be a shopkeeper in town again and eat lunch out on the cafe sidewalk, but today, I'm happy to be here, having conversation with the dogs and having lunch on the porch.<br />
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UPDATE: Ironically, my friend Lee, there in the tye dye, called and we met for lunch the next day. Be careful what you wish for. This worked out okay!! </div>
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-UicBCGyZ2iM/U6RfdeeEC3I/AAAAAAAADp0/2A_zOi3FSuc/s1600/Me+and+Lee.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-UicBCGyZ2iM/U6RfdeeEC3I/AAAAAAAADp0/2A_zOi3FSuc/s1600/Me+and+Lee.jpg" height="400" width="300" /></a></div>
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Angie @ thejunkranch http://www.blogger.com/profile/16378799206313610380noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6368861199022556829.post-5142085141296175812014-06-11T16:09:00.000-04:002014-07-24T13:42:52.325-04:00In case you were wondering....We are renovating a house for our daughter. Our lives have become incredibly busy and at the same time incredibly satisfying!<br />
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I have loved this little house since I was a girl. I loved the people that lived there and at a time, when the former owners talked of retiring to the beach, I had visions of someday living there myself.<br />
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Well, time has allowed my dream to somewhat come true now some 30 years later, and we are in the midst of making this forgotten little gem once again into a home. If you could see it now, you might wonder what we've gotten ourselves into...my tired back wonders every night! We have literally gutted it...removed sheetrock, carpet, dropped ceilings, layers of plywood, layers of floor coverings, cabinets, bathroom fixtures, old appliances and you know it...the kitchen sink!<br />
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As we get a little further along and I have something "pretty" to show you, I will begin to post the progress...until then, I'm leaving you with these...<br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-BdDEoWNt6p0/U5ixRT7QtjI/AAAAAAAADoQ/59RsLYIf2H0/s1600/Paul+Smith+Airport+1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-BdDEoWNt6p0/U5ixRT7QtjI/AAAAAAAADoQ/59RsLYIf2H0/s1600/Paul+Smith+Airport+1.jpg" height="296" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Paul's Airport </td></tr>
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I don't know exactly what year this was taken, but this is the little house on the right, at the foot of the "mountain", as we call it. The house was built in 1945 and used to be the office and cafe for the small airport that was there. The "mountain" is where I grew up and my parents still live.<br />
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When I moved there in 1968, there was no airport, but the hanger and barn were still there and it was a cattle farm until the 1980's. I had never seen any photos of the airport until recently when my good friend and neighbor surprised me with them. Ironically, her cousin had brought them to her early this spring for her to copy for her scrapbook.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-ercNS7jtKHg/U5ixTgu5FbI/AAAAAAAADoY/YCjgzx4-pRw/s1600/Paul+Smith+Airport+2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-ercNS7jtKHg/U5ixTgu5FbI/AAAAAAAADoY/YCjgzx4-pRw/s1600/Paul+Smith+Airport+2.jpg" height="253" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Paul's Airport</td></tr>
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The house basically looks the same today, with the exception of an additional fireplace on this side where the window is. It was purchased in the late 50's, I believe, and converted into a two bedroom home. There was an addition built later to give them a little more living space and a sweet little sun room. Beneath all of the mid century "updates", we've discovered the most wonderful original knotty pine boards on the walls, wood floors, and v-groove pine ceilings. It is the perfect little cottage!<br />
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Angie @ thejunkranch http://www.blogger.com/profile/16378799206313610380noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6368861199022556829.post-40706857209023214332014-06-04T22:00:00.001-04:002014-07-24T13:01:26.910-04:00Southern Summer Collection-Soy CandlesSummer 2014 is unofficially here but for me it's now official with the introduction of my summer candle line. Summer in the south is about as hot and humid as it gets but we sure do love our summers! I've taken inspiration from the things that make summertime wonderful.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-XnVfUqLN8g4/U492RhYbpAI/AAAAAAAADnI/oaH0q1uJbRU/s1600/IMG_2969.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-XnVfUqLN8g4/U492RhYbpAI/AAAAAAAADnI/oaH0q1uJbRU/s1600/IMG_2969.JPG" height="300" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Southern Summer Collection<br />
Junk Ranch Soy Candles</td></tr>
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Let me show you my Southern Summer Collection...I'd love it if you could smell them but I will have to compensate with good descriptions...<br />
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Everyone knows how we love our sweet tea here...not iced, but sweet! Every picnic and cookout includes a jug of sweet tea and if you visit anyone in the south, you will barely get through the door before you're offered a glass.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-vT2O25FiEyI/U492pANXUdI/AAAAAAAADnQ/rS2PPa0RKcY/s1600/IMG_2980.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-vT2O25FiEyI/U492pANXUdI/AAAAAAAADnQ/rS2PPa0RKcY/s1600/IMG_2980.JPG" height="400" width="300" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Sippin' Sweet Tea<br />
Soy Candle</td></tr>
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I chose the 100 year anniversary blue Ball jars for <i><b>Sippin' Sweet Tea </b></i>for you to keep and enjoy when the candle is gone. This is a fresh scent that will make you think cool thoughts of sitting on the porch sipping tea with a sprig of lemon balm and mint. We've been burning this one for a couple of weeks now and I can tell you it's going to be a classic summer fragrance here! Once you are finished with your candle, carefully remove the wick tab and leftover wax, run it through your dishwasher and drink sweet tea from your jar.</div>
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Vegetable gardening has made a huge comeback in the last several years, especially with the ease of square foot gardening...there is nothing, nothing like a homegrown 'mater.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-sDsJVzQ8aEE/U493BH9V3OI/AAAAAAAADnY/yet8qhMbHXo/s1600/IMG_2976.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-sDsJVzQ8aEE/U493BH9V3OI/AAAAAAAADnY/yet8qhMbHXo/s1600/IMG_2976.JPG" height="357" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Country Garden<br />
Soy Candle</td></tr>
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My <b><i>Country Garden</i></b> candle is a wonderful mix of tomato leaves and basil...smells just like you are walking through the garden. It is light and a good choice for those that do not like a strong scented candle..These have been hand poured into vintage Kerr Jars I bought at an estate sale.</div>
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I have two different places I call my potting sheds here. One is behind the barn close to the garden and one is under the shed between the herb gardens. At either one I keep a big bag of potting soil for starting plants or re-potting them. I absolutely love the smell of dirt!<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-nSpvdRdsyx8/U493Zg-jTZI/AAAAAAAADng/wfhkXhcQEhk/s1600/IMG_2982.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-nSpvdRdsyx8/U493Zg-jTZI/AAAAAAAADng/wfhkXhcQEhk/s1600/IMG_2982.JPG" height="400" width="300" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Pottin' Shed<br />
Soy Candle</td></tr>
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My <b><i>Pottin' Shed</i></b> candle has been poured into recycled bean cans and embellished with used bailing twine...just like I start young plants in. You can go into any barn around here and find that most people save their twine after they cut open a bail of hay....so many uses for that stuff to mention. This one smells like...you guessed it...dirt. Earthy and musky. Men seem to gravitate to this one.</div>
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I haven't worn shoes with toes in them in a month and I've added one more pair of flip flops to my collection already. The rule growing up was that you couldn't go bare footed until May 1st. I don't do much bare footin' these days because I prefer my feet to be soft now, unlike the days when I would brag about being able to run across the gravel driveway without it hurting my feet.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-CC0YFsMi9dE/U493v54FFUI/AAAAAAAADno/ZAcNvuVsCgo/s1600/IMG_2978.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-CC0YFsMi9dE/U493v54FFUI/AAAAAAAADno/ZAcNvuVsCgo/s1600/IMG_2978.JPG" height="400" width="300" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Bare Footin'<br />
Soy Candle</td></tr>
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I love these little quilted jelly jars for my <b><i>Bare Footin' </i></b>candle. They are the perfect size for a small table or on your kitchen counter. When you walk into a room where this one is burning you may think the window is open and someone just cut the grass...fresh and inviting!<br />
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...And on the same path as dirt and grass are probably a few wildflowers. We have a more and more daisies each year in the field beside our house. They are the first of many that I pick each spring to add to bouquets from my flower and herb gardens.<br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-uKfB2Hw1Njs/U4_SvdzFRsI/AAAAAAAADoA/vJNKmhJ-sS8/s1600/IMG_2973.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-uKfB2Hw1Njs/U4_SvdzFRsI/AAAAAAAADoA/vJNKmhJ-sS8/s1600/IMG_2973.JPG" height="400" width="300" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Pickin' Wildflowers<br />
Soy Candle</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<i style="font-weight: bold;"> Pickin' Wildflowers </i>is a nice floral and herb scent that smells as good cold as it does burning. It will definitely give your home a pleasant summery aroma. <span style="background-color: white; color: #333333; font-family: Helvetica, Arial, 'lucida grande', tahoma, verdana, arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 20px;"> </span><span style="background-color: white; color: #333333; font-family: Helvetica, Arial, 'lucida grande', tahoma, verdana, arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 20px;">I've poured them into green collectible vintage style Ball jars so you can enjoy the candle now and the jar later as a flower vase.</span><br />
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And, what would summer be without a beach trip or six? Going to the beach is a given for most of us. It's as close as three hours to Myrtle or five to OBX, which is our favorite.<br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-L_kbpcZy70M/U494D5AIUDI/AAAAAAAADnw/fsy99ple_JQ/s1600/IMG_2971.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-L_kbpcZy70M/U494D5AIUDI/AAAAAAAADnw/fsy99ple_JQ/s1600/IMG_2971.JPG" height="400" width="300" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Sun Tannin'<br />
Soy Candle</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
This has to be the official "smell of summer". <i style="font-weight: bold;">Sun Tannin' </i>captures all that is perfect about the beach. It is the smell you have on your beach towel after a day of swimming and you hang it out to dry...suntan oil, salt, a little citrus, a little floral...perfect. I poured twice to get the sand and water effect...maybe next time I will try to get sand, water and top off with a light Carolina Blue sky.<br />
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All of these are now available in limited quantities just for the summer. Get them here at the ranch (please call, text, email or send a Facebook message for a pick up time). Please see the sidebar for contact information.<br />
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Remember. we keep your favorite "regulars" in stock year round...like <b><i>Hazelnut Coffee </i></b>and<b><i> Lavender</i></b> mixes. Do not hesitate to ask for a custom order of something you would rather have that is not in stock.<br />
<br />Angie @ thejunkranch http://www.blogger.com/profile/16378799206313610380noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6368861199022556829.post-56296305551002828092013-12-16T17:43:00.001-05:002014-06-11T15:37:49.166-04:00Got Candles?<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-gFtJ3tFEqdk/Uq9yqkzvvTI/AAAAAAAADkU/OtoXmbHwPrE/s1600/IMG_2651_2658.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-gFtJ3tFEqdk/Uq9yqkzvvTI/AAAAAAAADkU/OtoXmbHwPrE/s400/IMG_2651_2658.JPG" height="300" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Hand Poured Scented Soy Candles</td></tr>
</tbody></table>I never intended to become a candle shop...but it's looking like that's the big draw here these days! I've had people drive out here from other cities just for my candles.<br />
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I first started pouring my own scented soy candles a couple of years ago, when my favorite little shop stopped making them. Until I "experienced" a soy candle I had been happy enough with my $4 Walmart candles even though they sooted up my ceilings a little.<br />
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Soy candles not only hold more fragrance, they burn clean and last much longer than paraffin candles. Most scents have as good a cold throw as hot. After my first soy candle, I have never bought another paraffin candle.<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-kKMcRfTKMKI/Uq92LIp6UgI/AAAAAAAADkg/E4Dodt9_TQQ/s1600/IMG_2621_2688.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-kKMcRfTKMKI/Uq92LIp6UgI/AAAAAAAADkg/E4Dodt9_TQQ/s400/IMG_2621_2688.JPG" height="300" width="400" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: left;">I started out with these great little mason jars because that was what I always bought. They look nice in your kitchen and add a little nostalgia.They come in 8oz and 16 oz sizes.</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-eTRMHn953C8/Uq924ux6Z4I/AAAAAAAADko/LhH-AftNBq4/s1600/IMG_2624_2691.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-eTRMHn953C8/Uq924ux6Z4I/AAAAAAAADko/LhH-AftNBq4/s400/IMG_2624_2691.JPG" height="400" width="300" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: left;">Jelly jars are as good in the bath or bedroom as in the kitchen, because of their generic appearance. They are available in 4 oz and 8 oz sizes.</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-g-kWyY2FGA8/Uq95Qnkcf_I/AAAAAAAADlQ/VTmx1xm_9mo/s1600/IMG_2683_2704.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-g-kWyY2FGA8/Uq95Qnkcf_I/AAAAAAAADlQ/VTmx1xm_9mo/s400/IMG_2683_2704.JPG" height="400" width="300" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">The travel tins are always a must for vacation to freshen up your hotel room or beach/mountain house. Take a citronella out on your deck to keep the mosquitoes at bay. Also, these tins are what I use for my spa line. I keep them in three sizes...4 oz, 8 oz and 16 oz.</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-raQtpzYaiy4/Uq93g6sqVVI/AAAAAAAADkw/UCb46Y8WJvU/s1600/IMG_2674_2680.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-raQtpzYaiy4/Uq93g6sqVVI/AAAAAAAADkw/UCb46Y8WJvU/s400/IMG_2674_2680.JPG" height="300" width="400" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">I've had the most fun getting creative with other vessels. When I used to mostly paint I always said I would paint on anything that didn't run away. Now, I'm pouring soy wax into anything that will hold it.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br />
</div><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-Dv8_2RtLi2Y/Uq95DIOUbvI/AAAAAAAADk8/PVhVkzb-FH4/s1600/IMG_2682_2703.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-Dv8_2RtLi2Y/Uq95DIOUbvI/AAAAAAAADk8/PVhVkzb-FH4/s320/IMG_2682_2703.JPG" height="240" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Vintage Art Pottery Planter</td></tr>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-uN0gox5d6Wg/Uq95JRxdSwI/AAAAAAAADlE/bIu5Gx--FYA/s1600/IMG_2685_2706.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-uN0gox5d6Wg/Uq95JRxdSwI/AAAAAAAADlE/bIu5Gx--FYA/s400/IMG_2685_2706.JPG" height="400" width="300" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Vintage Art Pottery Planter and Vintage Scottie Glass Creamer</td></tr>
</tbody></table><br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-5Ff9lbj8Ppc/Uq95Z_ZAX0I/AAAAAAAADlY/PnJ-3z32Yvg/s1600/IMG_2686_2707.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-5Ff9lbj8Ppc/Uq95Z_ZAX0I/AAAAAAAADlY/PnJ-3z32Yvg/s400/IMG_2686_2707.JPG" height="400" width="300" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Vintage Milk Glass Goblets</td></tr>
</tbody></table><br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-xLSgrQRpA-g/Uq95YWFeX0I/AAAAAAAADlU/tHAf6UK_RM8/s1600/IMG_2694_2715.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-xLSgrQRpA-g/Uq95YWFeX0I/AAAAAAAADlU/tHAf6UK_RM8/s400/IMG_2694_2715.JPG" height="400" width="300" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Old Tins</td></tr>
</tbody></table><br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-2KwnBJschnU/Uq95cxmMtfI/AAAAAAAADlk/9_e_CtOvyaE/s1600/IMG_2696_2717.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-2KwnBJschnU/Uq95cxmMtfI/AAAAAAAADlk/9_e_CtOvyaE/s400/IMG_2696_2717.JPG" height="300" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Mid Century Stacking Mugs (JAPAN)</td></tr>
</tbody></table><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">When you go to auctions as often as I have over the years you accumulate lots of glass whether you want it or not...the pieces come in box lots and if you want the one great treasure in the box you have to take the whole box of goodies to get it. I have managed to acquire lots of punch cups and vintage costume jewelry... </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-W9Xnz5DZ1Hw/Uq97ofbSwkI/AAAAAAAADmA/71t7cpAucVA/s1600/IMG_2687_2708.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-W9Xnz5DZ1Hw/Uq97ofbSwkI/AAAAAAAADmA/71t7cpAucVA/s400/IMG_2687_2708.JPG" height="400" width="300" /></a></div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-rWOvlzY2aq0/Uq97hX9ui3I/AAAAAAAADl4/9IZDuL_xdqk/s1600/IMG_2688_2709.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-rWOvlzY2aq0/Uq97hX9ui3I/AAAAAAAADl4/9IZDuL_xdqk/s400/IMG_2688_2709.JPG" height="400" width="300" /></a></div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-4E13ZgVq6NA/Uq97b7qaLdI/AAAAAAAADlw/aGMl_YULR9w/s1600/IMG_2689_2710.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-4E13ZgVq6NA/Uq97b7qaLdI/AAAAAAAADlw/aGMl_YULR9w/s400/IMG_2689_2710.JPG" height="300" width="400" /></a></div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-u0jQhxGyP1k/Uq97vDQDPUI/AAAAAAAADmI/GbRFMi1R2VY/s1600/IMG_2690_2711.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-u0jQhxGyP1k/Uq97vDQDPUI/AAAAAAAADmI/GbRFMi1R2VY/s400/IMG_2690_2711.JPG" height="300" width="400" /></a></div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/--7fpGOQs1VI/Uq97vdIQeKI/AAAAAAAADmM/gvc1d2qKcVE/s1600/IMG_2691_2712.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/--7fpGOQs1VI/Uq97vdIQeKI/AAAAAAAADmM/gvc1d2qKcVE/s400/IMG_2691_2712.JPG" height="400" width="300" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: left;">The best thing about having a local candle shop is that you can have your favorite vessel refilled or bring in your own. Just today I had a customer bring in her own pieces and will be giving them as gifts. She was also able to request her favorite scents that I was not currently stocking. </div><div style="text-align: left;"><br />
</div><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-0p-y-ClELro/Uq9-UGGBJ_I/AAAAAAAADmc/h_w3L66HF28/s1600/IMG_2695_2716.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-0p-y-ClELro/Uq9-UGGBJ_I/AAAAAAAADmc/h_w3L66HF28/s400/IMG_2695_2716.JPG" height="300" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Customers Own Vessels</td></tr>
</tbody></table>I hope you will come in and try one. Before I started making them I always liked to treat myself to a new candle or two each season. I couldn't wait to try something new! They make wonderful gifts and especially this time of year when you need to grab something for a your party hostess!<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-pTK2Es3vY_w/Uq-C-k2VemI/AAAAAAAADmo/ww7IG9GWAg0/s1600/IMG_2681_2702.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-pTK2Es3vY_w/Uq-C-k2VemI/AAAAAAAADmo/ww7IG9GWAg0/s400/IMG_2681_2702.JPG" height="300" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Vintage Teacup and Saucer with Mulled Cider & Chestnut Scented Soy Candle</td></tr>
</tbody></table><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div></div><div>I am now wholesaling them if you'd like to inquire for your shop or boutique.<br />
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</div><div>I will be open one more Saturday before Christmas but as always, I am open by appointment...that simple! You can find select fragrances at Spade and Broom in Trinity and Palette Boutique in Thomasville if you are out and about. </div></div>Angie @ thejunkranch http://www.blogger.com/profile/16378799206313610380noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6368861199022556829.post-25708845307716748302013-08-22T17:51:00.002-04:002014-06-11T15:37:07.575-04:00Parts + Pieces = Clean StudioA while back I challenged myself to use up things from my junk stashes creatively as an incentive to get things organized. I would love to invite people back into my studio, but honestly I have no where to put them...I hardly have anywhere to work!<br />
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I'm not sure how long ago it was that I made myself that challenge...but I didn't do very well. I have continued to shop with the excuse that I needed to add to my rental inventory. Now, I actually have NO more room to store anything and I'm thinning my inventory by selling some of the overflow.<br />
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This week I've been in the studio making making more candy containers/vanity jars...etc. I made a few sales in my Etsy shop and now I'm motivated. $$<br />
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I have accumulated lots and lots of glass so I started with those shelves and I'm going to work my way around the studio until I'm down to the real junk...the stuff that probably needs to be thrown away....we'll see!<br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-dM7T8kXP9t8/UhZ_UdqUl2I/AAAAAAAADgs/iykOBQkb7KU/s1600/IMG_2235_2364_edited-1.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-dM7T8kXP9t8/UhZ_UdqUl2I/AAAAAAAADgs/iykOBQkb7KU/s400/IMG_2235_2364_edited-1.JPG" width="293" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">More to replace the sold pair....</td></tr>
</tbody></table><br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-ztn-Su4pBys/UhZ_OndJfuI/AAAAAAAADgc/Ls16PjZ28Z0/s1600/IMG_2237_2366.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-ztn-Su4pBys/UhZ_OndJfuI/AAAAAAAADgc/Ls16PjZ28Z0/s400/IMG_2237_2366.JPG" width="300" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Finally digging into the broken pearls I bought on Etsy years ago</td></tr>
</tbody></table><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-zOUMQFMikBY/UhZ_TyeSgPI/AAAAAAAADgo/EhloKn-yD7g/s1600/IMG_2242_2371_edited-1.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-zOUMQFMikBY/UhZ_TyeSgPI/AAAAAAAADgo/EhloKn-yD7g/s400/IMG_2242_2371_edited-1.JPG" width="325" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">A smaller set...5 and 7 inches high...nice for a vanity</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-xuYFWnUEwp8/UhZ_cm0qJBI/AAAAAAAADhA/Ot1koo6_8do/s1600/IMG_2247_2376.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-xuYFWnUEwp8/UhZ_cm0qJBI/AAAAAAAADhA/Ot1koo6_8do/s400/IMG_2247_2376.JPG" width="300" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">This one I think I will keep...for a while at least...from a vintage fish bowl, and crystal candle holder and footed bowl<br />
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...salt shaker lid trimmed out with broken rhinestone jewelry</td></tr>
</tbody></table><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-4I1LxRCjzW4/UhZ_jF-nVdI/AAAAAAAADhI/wt4hy7FkxdA/s1600/IMG_2248_2377.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-4I1LxRCjzW4/UhZ_jF-nVdI/AAAAAAAADhI/wt4hy7FkxdA/s320/IMG_2248_2377.JPG" width="240" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">I have no shortage of plates either...china, ironstone, stoneware, old, new....</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-EvXh-SwZTEE/UhZ_9vrKWOI/AAAAAAAADiE/d4wAfhFYWN8/s1600/IMG_2265_2394_edited-1.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-EvXh-SwZTEE/UhZ_9vrKWOI/AAAAAAAADiE/d4wAfhFYWN8/s400/IMG_2265_2394_edited-1.JPG" width="368" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Small teapot centerpiece</td></tr>
</tbody></table><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Uj0_PZEGODo/UhZ_8tN6VUI/AAAAAAAADiA/97WPcd8Mfaw/s1600/IMG_2263_2392.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Uj0_PZEGODo/UhZ_8tN6VUI/AAAAAAAADiA/97WPcd8Mfaw/s400/IMG_2263_2392.JPG" width="400" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-oBkLJ0Qj_uY/UhZ_kGyj5_I/AAAAAAAADhQ/-h9tDgcCIpY/s1600/IMG_2250_2379.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-oBkLJ0Qj_uY/UhZ_kGyj5_I/AAAAAAAADhQ/-h9tDgcCIpY/s400/IMG_2250_2379.JPG" width="300" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">I just brought this teapot home this past week...</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-G4hfZQQtm5Q/UhZ_p53mREI/AAAAAAAADhY/plD1YWA_44M/s1600/IMG_2251_2380.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="300" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-G4hfZQQtm5Q/UhZ_p53mREI/AAAAAAAADhY/plD1YWA_44M/s400/IMG_2251_2380.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The gold chains are from the old jewelry that I've had since bringing in the storage trailer in 2010...and so did the pink and gold rimmed plate.</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-5HM9JZhAXBA/UhZ_6FewIXI/AAAAAAAADh4/S4gP5-_svhE/s1600/IMG_2257_2386.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-5HM9JZhAXBA/UhZ_6FewIXI/AAAAAAAADh4/S4gP5-_svhE/s400/IMG_2257_2386.JPG" width="300" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">This teapot "almost" sold a dozen different times. It works very well in it's new role as centerpiece. I hope someone will use it for tea parties!</td></tr>
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-xZgN0AMjKMo/UhZ_zBmO4QI/AAAAAAAADhs/FGP_Zy85dj4/s1600/IMG_2260_2389.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-xZgN0AMjKMo/UhZ_zBmO4QI/AAAAAAAADhs/FGP_Zy85dj4/s400/IMG_2260_2389.JPG" width="400" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">I leave the lids unattached so you can use the teapots as vases if you'd like</td></tr>
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</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">These are so much fun to make! The bond is permanent and weather proof...some people use the centerpieces in the garden in warm months as totems or bird feeders...lots of uses for both jars and centerpieces.</div>Angie @ thejunkranch http://www.blogger.com/profile/16378799206313610380noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6368861199022556829.post-59090485668005960962013-07-31T09:37:00.000-04:002013-10-21T11:56:45.065-04:00What is it about Rust?<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-7UCw-RmdZ9Y/UfkI65J4b6I/AAAAAAAADfc/d6BVmcPB4Yc/s1600/IMG_2144_2273+copy.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-7UCw-RmdZ9Y/UfkI65J4b6I/AAAAAAAADfc/d6BVmcPB4Yc/s400/IMG_2144_2273+copy.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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I have a thing for rust! As soon as I saw these doors I had a plan for them. The white stenciling is new as of last week but, soon I know the iron oxide will penetrate the new paint and begin to creep into the pattern and create a weathered patina that is unmatched in character...in my opinion.</div>
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-9LVNV3O7cXE/UfkJT0b5EmI/AAAAAAAADgM/2G6q1d8UQc4/s1600/IMG_2145_2274_edited-1+copy.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-9LVNV3O7cXE/UfkJT0b5EmI/AAAAAAAADgM/2G6q1d8UQc4/s400/IMG_2145_2274_edited-1+copy.jpg" width="176" /></a></div>
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They are metal cabinet doors my husband took off so that he could better use the cabinet in his shop. Knowing I love a little rust, left them out behind the building exposed to the elements for over a year...well, we forgot about them. The little bit of rust that was in a few choice places took over as they blew to the ground during a storm I suppose and became leaf covered in the fall. They remained there through the very wet winter and spring. Early in June, they appeared on the studio porch after the hubby rediscovered them. ...very proud of "his" work, later that day he told me my doors were ready. </div>
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-lzgXi3J1CIs/UfkI8ptSS2I/AAAAAAAADfo/_6PwU5ODVzg/s1600/IMG_2140_2269+copy.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-lzgXi3J1CIs/UfkI8ptSS2I/AAAAAAAADfo/_6PwU5ODVzg/s400/IMG_2140_2269+copy.jpg" width="300" /></a></div>
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They make a unique back drop for photo sessions or behind a guest book table. I also envision them separated and used individually behind fern stands...so many ideas!!<br />
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As I look around here I see rust in every direction...<br />
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-9MwlR-BbUKs/UfkJAiEnVGI/AAAAAAAADfw/3A0HaYPDfmo/s1600/IMG_2150_2279_edited-1+copy.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-9MwlR-BbUKs/UfkJAiEnVGI/AAAAAAAADfw/3A0HaYPDfmo/s400/IMG_2150_2279_edited-1+copy.jpg" width="157" /></a></div>
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This is a great old piece...heavy, heavy! It's an old street light base and makes a gorgeous pedestal...think ferns or other spillover plants or add a flat surface to the top and use as a guest sign in spot.</div>
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How cute is this rusty old Radio Flyer? </div>
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What would you do with this old fireplace grate? I love it for flower pots.</div>
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Okay, you just never know when you will need a rusty old iron with a bent handle...but you do know where to find one!<br />
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If I keep looking I'm sure I could find just as many more pieces around here!<br />
<br />Angie @ thejunkranch http://www.blogger.com/profile/16378799206313610380noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6368861199022556829.post-47519592094774515722013-07-24T16:28:00.000-04:002013-09-18T11:36:02.502-04:00It's a Candy Bar Kinda Thing<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-ZiB4GnX4BJY/UfAruY1J6oI/AAAAAAAADdc/TPNKTu9HdjY/s1600/IMG_2115_2224_edited-1.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-ZiB4GnX4BJY/UfAruY1J6oI/AAAAAAAADdc/TPNKTu9HdjY/s400/IMG_2115_2224_edited-1.JPG" width="283" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div>A good friend and fellow vintage rental owner asked me recently if I had vessels for a candy bar. I had pinned some <a href="http://pinterest.com/thejunkranch/wedding-candy-bar-ideas/" target="_blank">pretty photos on Pinterest</a> but, no, I really had not started collecting pretty little jars, bowls or dishes.<br />
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</div>When I first opened my shop I had lots of glass, many beautiful crystal and glass pieces, that came from the storage trailer. I had no trouble selling them. At the time, I didn't appreciate them and couldn't see a use for them...for me personally anyway....so they are gone. There are a few pieces now, that I would love to buy back since I have discovered I could use them...for a candy bar!<br />
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</div><div style="text-align: left;">What is a candy bar? It's a buffet of candy actually. These are popular at receptions, engagement and birthday parties.</div><br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-5KNYOVCaE70/UfAtgbeoeCI/AAAAAAAADd8/qLszsLT2x8A/s1600/IMG_2119_2228.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-5KNYOVCaE70/UfAtgbeoeCI/AAAAAAAADd8/qLszsLT2x8A/s400/IMG_2119_2228.JPG" width="300" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">This piece is made from an old<br />
Hormel jar, 2 crystal candle holders, and a lamp finial</td></tr>
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</div>When looking through my inventory, I found I only had parts and pieces of jars, lids, and other baubles I had collected for making centerpieces and garden totems....then I had a light bulb moment....perfect! I got busy one afternoon and started putting pieces together until I had a nice little grouping of candy jars.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-I-tlQ7m1CKM/UfAvpxeamNI/AAAAAAAADeI/LJn2lL1X5ig/s1600/IMG_2117_2226.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="300" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-I-tlQ7m1CKM/UfAvpxeamNI/AAAAAAAADeI/LJn2lL1X5ig/s400/IMG_2117_2226.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Jars and bowls for candy</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-7T_svNZMD6A/UfAv0DzDeJI/AAAAAAAADeo/NHZSzsxRUs0/s1600/IMG_2122_2231.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-7T_svNZMD6A/UfAv0DzDeJI/AAAAAAAADeo/NHZSzsxRUs0/s400/IMG_2122_2231.JPG" width="300" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Made from various pieces and parts</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-TjaEhdcLewk/UfAvshOadXI/AAAAAAAADeQ/yWsDqYMtNw8/s1600/IMG_2123_2232.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="300" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-TjaEhdcLewk/UfAvshOadXI/AAAAAAAADeQ/yWsDqYMtNw8/s400/IMG_2123_2232.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Interesting little bowl</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-m15ZCMA-PLE/UfAvyR3KHmI/AAAAAAAADeg/x8X9MvqL-lM/s1600/IMG_2124_2233_edited-1.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-m15ZCMA-PLE/UfAvyR3KHmI/AAAAAAAADeg/x8X9MvqL-lM/s400/IMG_2124_2233_edited-1.JPG" width="346" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">This beautiful bowl I kept from the trailer contents</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-cLVQiJFJSTY/UfAvw1WP4iI/AAAAAAAADeY/2C0QIr82RBE/s1600/IMG_2127_2235.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-cLVQiJFJSTY/UfAvw1WP4iI/AAAAAAAADeY/2C0QIr82RBE/s400/IMG_2127_2235.JPG" width="300" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Two brandy snifters and two custard cups...pretty clever huh?..</td></tr>
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</div>I hope you like them. I enjoyed making them and now they are ready for rental.<br />
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Also, I think it's quite okay to mix things up a little...you know I love milk glass used with vintage aluminum so I spread out a few of my pieces just to get an idea if this would work as a candy bar also... I think so!<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-EoIgUo3l9kM/UfA51J-0pmI/AAAAAAAADfA/VJYKjkwx0CQ/s1600/IMG_2130_2238.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="300" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-EoIgUo3l9kM/UfA51J-0pmI/AAAAAAAADfA/VJYKjkwx0CQ/s400/IMG_2130_2238.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Milk glass is the new black!...it goes with everything.</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">This will dress up or down....</td></tr>
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</div>I hope to have some photos soon in situ!<br />
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Angie @ thejunkranch http://www.blogger.com/profile/16378799206313610380noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6368861199022556829.post-55647557972200550322013-06-28T11:53:00.000-04:002013-07-01T10:21:17.692-04:00We Are Leaving Easy Street<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-sKdLx3D6WOc/Uc2QWYh4m_I/AAAAAAAADcM/aHUEdeviehs/s1600/2012+05+23_0474.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-sKdLx3D6WOc/Uc2QWYh4m_I/AAAAAAAADcM/aHUEdeviehs/s400/2012+05+23_0474.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
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When our children were younger I was fortunate enough to take summers off for the most part and spend precious time with them. We "played" summer camp and did educational and fun activities throughout the day. We had a schedule that took us from quiet mornings learning to cook and read to chore time at the barn and garden. We spent time caring for and riding our horses, had art time and swam for hours at the community pool. Although I do remember being exhausted, it was a good time in our lives. I was on track with who I wanted to be and lived very authentically...for a few good years anyway.<br />
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As the kid's grew and schedules got tighter our lives changed quickly. Once we were very self sufficient here on our little homestead and had planned to teach our children these values...but, that wasn't the case. To make a long story short, we forgot our mission. Our careers took off and our lifestyle changed. We were too busy and because we could, we took a wrong turn down Easy Street.<br />
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Day by day we would buy something we could make or repair. We stopped more often to get fast food on the way home from gymnastics or ball practice, and we began subscribing to services we swore we'd never pay for...TV, trash pick up and cell phones for kids under 16! We stopped planting a garden because we let spring go past without noticing we'd forgotten to prepare our plot and then...Walmart opened up 5 miles from our country home. Need I say more?<br />
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I recognized our wrong turns many times (I wrote a <a href="http://ranchdressingcowgirlstyle.blogspot.com/2011/06/keeping-it-simple.html" target="_blank">very similar post </a>two years ago) and have seriously tried to get back on track...especially during the years I homeschooled our son. Bless his heart, I'm sure he has repressed memories of planting with the signs and Three Sisters gardening...Google it!<br />
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I'm writing this more for myself than for any other reason really. It helps me to feel more organized to see it written in black and white...but here goes...if you are even still with me...<br />
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We are getting back on track this summer. My business is in the perfect stage for me to do this and summer is the perfect time, with the long days, to get organized. We are going back to the basics and trying to be as self sufficient as possible. I'm exhausted from trying to keep up with current trends, from social media to the newest business model. Before making this decision, I was at the point of being so overwhelmed I accomplished nothing day in and day out for weeks at a time.<br />
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We live in a world of information overload. I've spent countless hours keeping up a website, blog, facebook pages, Etsy and Ebay accounts and now Pinterest boards....and all for what? Business? That's what we tell ourselves. I made the most money I've ever made in my lifetime the last year we lived in our mobile home, before the internet or any paid advertising. We only "think" we have to do things like "they" say to be successful. I've been most successful when I've done things authentically.<br />
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My heart and gut tell me to slow down! I'm cutting back. I'm taking back some precious time that I want to spend with family and friends and getting reorganized into a simpler lifestyle...which includes my business.<br />
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With this said, this will be my last blog post until about August. You may see photo shoot postings that I will be working on that I need linked from my website, but for the most part I am going to be pretty busy offline.<br />
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If you want information about vintage rentals please visit my website, <a href="http://www.thejunkranch.com/">www.thejunkranch.com</a>. You will find all of my information there.<br />
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Your best bet for the most up to date information will be from my <a href="https://www.facebook.com/TheJunkRanch" target="_blank">Facebook page</a>....And you may certainly contact me for appointments for <a href="http://www.thejunkranch.com/shop.html" target="_blank">shopping </a>and<a href="http://www.thejunkranch.com/vintage-rentals.html" target="_blank"> rental </a>or <a href="http://www.thejunkranch.com/services.html" target="_blank">design consultations</a>. See the side bar for my contact info.<br />
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If you'd like more information on living a sustainable lifestyle there is much "out there" these days. <a href="http://urbanhomestead.org/urban-homestead" target="_blank">The Urban Homestead</a> is a favorite and a wealth of info about doing this in small spaces. You don't need to live on a farm or even out in the country to be more self sufficient.<br />
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Thanks for reading and I will see you back here in about a month!<br />
~Angie<br />
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<br />Angie @ thejunkranch http://www.blogger.com/profile/16378799206313610380noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6368861199022556829.post-66568403922306106372013-06-10T11:24:00.001-04:002013-06-10T11:25:20.235-04:00Bring out the Swans...it's still raining! <table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Hand Poured Soy Candles in Vintage Swan Pottery Vessels</td></tr>
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All of this spring rain has surely put a halt on any outdoor picture taking I've wanted to do this last week...or two! On a brighter note, the time inside has given me the opportunity to get a little more organized and I did happen to get a few more individual inventory shots of my rentals.<br />
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In the photo above I'm showing two of my vintage pottery swans that I've hand poured scented soy wax into. These are available for rent for entry tables...etc. They will burn for your entire event or longer and will greet your guests with a pleasant aroma of your choosing. I stock all of the popular fragrance oils and can order by request....such a special touch for your special day or event!<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">A chipmunk sipping rain water from a leaf that had blown up on our front porch</td></tr>
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<span style="text-align: center;">The daily rains have also forced me to slow my roll and to try to enjoy a somewhat slower pace...giving me an opportunity also to notice that there is another world existing right under my nose that I'd ignored for quite a while...</span></div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">A fledgling wren I found in the herb garden</td></tr>
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I love my work, but I also love living out in the country and farm life. It takes balance to do it all. I'm still working on that...and focus! </div>
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This summer, I'm making it my goal to live a balanced life. I'm blessed that I can and I'm very grateful! I love my life on the farm and my design and rental business that I run right here from home. It's the very best of both worlds. </div>
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As I look out my window now...it's raining...again, but, that's okay.</div>
<br />Angie @ thejunkranch http://www.blogger.com/profile/16378799206313610380noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6368861199022556829.post-21759529682038615652013-05-28T11:14:00.001-04:002013-05-28T11:31:47.599-04:00Vintage Rental...The Total PackageI'm a week past the sale and still recouping from the time spent daily on all the details involved in putting it together...<span style="text-align: center;">...at any rate, the show went off without a hitch with the exception of a rain shower on Saturday but I think considering the weather we all did fairly well...just the perks of doing an outdoor show.</span><br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Stressed Out Furniture and Hennessee Home</td></tr>
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These are four of a dozen vendor booths...all were so well done!</div>
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Today, I'm finally back on a regular schedule both at home and at work. This upcoming Saturday marks opening day for my rentals to begin...</div>
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Because I'm doing this part-time only, I will be doing things a little differently than a lot of the rental companies...I am offering packages so that you can take your rented items to your venue and set them up just the way you choose them. </div>
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Choosing random items, just because you love them won't guarantee that you always find good uses when you are in stressful situations...The best stylist will leave things out if it's not going to work and that's wasteful on two accounts. For most of the people I've already talked to they don't know what they want exactly unless they see it all together. </div>
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Pinterest has been both inspirational and confusing for young brides, especially, because they are running around everywhere looking for every item from every idea they've seen. Most aren't able to afford to buy all these things or have the time to make what they want for their wedding. This is why renting is such a wonderful concept!</div>
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I'm interested in renting my handmade and vintage inventory out as props for photo shoots mostly and for receptions and parties. I will never have a bizillion of anything but I already do have many very special items that will add instant charm to your photo or event. </div>
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For example, the items from the photo above will rent as a whole unit with interchangeable teapots, table linens and miss matched cups and saucers to personalize it, but basically this setting will be what you see here. This particular setting can be used for family photos, engagement photos or a little girls tea party, set with a small tea service ...can't you just see little legs dangling from those chairs?<br />
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Of course, if you just wanted the table or a chair or two for something entirely different, and they are available, it's entirely possible! </div>
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I also have multiple spots here at the farm for your photo sessions with a list of wonderful local photographers if you don't have anyone in mind. </div>
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My catalog, which is still evolving, will have individual inventory pieces as well as the whole unit sets in which to choose from. Renting sets will save time and money which is two of our most valuable assets. </div>
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Of course, if requested, I'm available to style your photo shoots or events if you have a particular need other than what I've already come up with, and we can help with delivery if necessary as well. I'm also on board with making things, if I'm able, that you need...But, mostly this will be a self service rental company for those wanting something simply beautiful that stays within a reasonable budget. </div>
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I'm still quite a ways off with getting everything photographed... but it's evolving and I'm not quite so overwhelmed now that I've gotten started.</div>
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I will post more photos here as I get them done, and also on my <a href="http://pinterest.com/thejunkranch/ranch-dressing-vintage-rentals/" target="_blank">Vintage Rental Pinterest board</a>, but if you are a local, I hope you will make an appointment to see in person the items in the showroom. </div>
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Open for appointments, beginning Saturday, June 1st 2013. 336-905-0386 </div>
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Angie @ thejunkranch http://www.blogger.com/profile/16378799206313610380noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6368861199022556829.post-48063050414665094802013-05-05T22:43:00.000-04:002013-05-05T23:00:25.110-04:00My Vintage Rental Inventory is Shaping Up QuicklyTime is ticking fast now...I've got eleven days to be completely ready for the sale. I'm almost at a place where I can't do much until <i>crunch time...</i><br />
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So...this week I'm focused on my vintage rental inventory. The showroom is almost finished and I've started photographing the pieces. I hope to have a good start on the catalog by the weekend of the sale...hoping. I'm also trying to figure out my catalog and rental system...I hope there is a software system <i>out there</i> somewhere.<br />
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I'm having the best luck finding nice pieces to add to the things I already have. I wanted these vases you see on the table, that I saw at an auction yesterday...they threw them in a box lot with the candy dish and a set of 8 green glasses. I probably wouldn't have even bid on the candy dish but I really, really love it! I've never been much of a <i>green person</i>, but it's grown on me the last year or so. I love green mixed with crystal.<br />
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-lnde8PCsbA0/UYcJbLAFdrI/AAAAAAAADYQ/sggRCows744/s1600/2013+05+05_1870_edited-1.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="305" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-lnde8PCsbA0/UYcJbLAFdrI/AAAAAAAADYQ/sggRCows744/s400/2013+05+05_1870_edited-1.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
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When I first started toying with the idea of vintage rentals I found this table and several other small vintage wedding items all in one place, that seemed to me like a sign that I was onto something <i>meant to be. </i>This will be a beautiful piece used as a serving or gift table.I'm thinking I may paint the chairs now. We'll see.<br />
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-XWVBwMJzOPo/UYcMO8PLzCI/AAAAAAAADYk/LgWxVSVr3j0/s1600/2013+05+05_1869.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-XWVBwMJzOPo/UYcMO8PLzCI/AAAAAAAADYk/LgWxVSVr3j0/s400/2013+05+05_1869.JPG" width="300" /></a></div>
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This was one of the first centerpieces I made when they became popular a few years ago. I've always used it to display vintage jewelry on. I set the figurine on it just to be sitting it somewhere while I was moving things and now I think I really like it as part of the centerpiece.<br />
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I don't really know how I accumulated so many vases....and I have two shelves also of green glass and brown glass...oh...and milk glass. No lack of anything for flowers!<br />
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-5iR688bYqAg/UYcOU7EXeVI/AAAAAAAADY8/SmQH8L2oqpk/s1600/2013+05+05_1872_edited-1.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="241" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-5iR688bYqAg/UYcOU7EXeVI/AAAAAAAADY8/SmQH8L2oqpk/s400/2013+05+05_1872_edited-1.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
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About twenty years ago, I bought my first piece of aluminum. I still have it on my mantle. I remember the man told me that it was going to be really collectible one day and that I should buy all that I could. Well, I bought and then sold some of it...now, I'm buying again. I love it. It is really fun to use and so pretty for a <i>very vintage</i> wedding.<br />
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This is just the tip of the iceberg...remember, I'm a hoarder. I have tons of stuff and you know I'm always looking for more.<br />
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I'm shooting for June 1st as opening day for rentals. I should be ready for the most part to begin setting appointments for consultations and for rentals.<br />
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Come out on the 17th and 18th for a preview at our <a href="http://ranchdressingcowgirlstyle.blogspot.com/2013/04/i-am-getting-very-excited-about-our.html" target="_blank">Country Marketplace at the Ranch </a>show and sale. We are having two more vintage rental vendors along with those with antique, vintage and handmade things for sale.<br />
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...and come back here for more photos! Hopefully the weather will warm up and I will be motivated to set up outside for some styled shots...that's what I'm looking forward to!Angie @ thejunkranch http://www.blogger.com/profile/16378799206313610380noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6368861199022556829.post-83274745239858444452013-04-24T12:06:00.001-04:002013-05-11T10:41:32.987-04:00Our Vendor List for Country Marketplace<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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I am getting very excited about our sale in May. Last year, I was actually a little afraid that no one would show up to buy anything. I started with a handful of my closest friends as vendors, did a little marketing and hoped for the best. It worked and we had a good turnout. Whew! </div>
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This year we have a bigger vendor list. I learned a lot from last year and am working hard to make this another good event. </div>
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Here is our vendor list: </div>
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Crane Farms - Winston Salem</div>
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<a href="https://www.facebook.com/CraneFarms?fref=ts" target="_blank">Crane Farms on Facebook</a></div>
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<a href="http://www.cranefarms.blogspot.com/" target="_blank">Crane Farms Blog</a></div>
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<span style="text-align: left;">Cabin Creek Antiques - Lexington</span></div>
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<span style="text-align: left;"><a href="https://www.facebook.com/cabincreekantiques?fref=ts" target="_blank">Cabin Creek on Facebook</a></span></div>
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<span style="text-align: left;"> Goat Feathers - Winston Salem</span></div>
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<span style="text-align: left;"><a href="https://www.facebook.com/GoatFeathersAntiques?fref=ts" target="_blank">Goat Feathers on Facebook</a></span></div>
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<span style="text-align: left;">Stressed Out Furniture -Linwood</span></div>
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<span style="text-align: left;"><a href="https://www.facebook.com/pages/Stressed-Out-Furniture/269185143171860?fref=ts" target="_blank">Stressed Out Furniture on Facebook</a></span></div>
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-SzjnG2ED-Ek/UXf4bFI3mTI/AAAAAAAADV8/Qxzv2YYv-V0/s1600/lori.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-SzjnG2ED-Ek/UXf4bFI3mTI/AAAAAAAADV8/Qxzv2YYv-V0/s400/lori.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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<span style="text-align: left;">Loriginals - Thomasville</span></div>
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-e2xQ0SZ8U9M/UXf5wxHVlrI/AAAAAAAADWI/xirw96tH184/s1600/Brown+Eyed+Suzy.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="378" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-e2xQ0SZ8U9M/UXf5wxHVlrI/AAAAAAAADWI/xirw96tH184/s400/Brown+Eyed+Suzy.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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<span style="text-align: left;">The Brown Eyed Suzy - Salisbury</span></div>
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<span style="text-align: left;"><a href="http://www.etsy.com/shop/thebrowneyedsuzy?ref=ss_profile" target="_blank">The Brown Eyed Suzy on Etsy</a></span></div>
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<span style="text-align: left;">Hennessee Home - Winston Salem</span></div>
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<span style="text-align: left;"><a href="https://www.facebook.com/pages/Hennessee-Home/360397100653974?fref=ts" target="_blank">Hennessee Home on Facebook</a></span></div>
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-ZYOJLyZf0Ho/UYpjTsfrKdI/AAAAAAAADZM/SGhBXCrSFAQ/s1600/Blackbird+Box.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-ZYOJLyZf0Ho/UYpjTsfrKdI/AAAAAAAADZM/SGhBXCrSFAQ/s400/Blackbird+Box.jpg" width="300" /></a></div>
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<span style="text-align: left;">The Blackbird Box - Lexington</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: georgia, serif;"><span style="font-size: 14px; line-height: 25px; word-spacing: 2px;"><a href="https://www.facebook.com/pages/The-Blackbird-Box/236311046508914?fref=ts" target="_blank">The Blackbird Box on Facebook</a></span></span></div>
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-DeLHcmwRQNk/UYpkSD6YNKI/AAAAAAAADZY/cPF7TvH7r48/s1600/Vickie's+Jewel+Box.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="225" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-DeLHcmwRQNk/UYpkSD6YNKI/AAAAAAAADZY/cPF7TvH7r48/s400/Vickie's+Jewel+Box.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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Vickie's Jewel Box-Lexington</div>
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<a href="https://www.facebook.com/groups/466672863387061/?fref=ts" target="_blank">Vickie's Jewel Box Auction Site on Facebook</a></div>
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<span style="text-align: left;">Ranch Dressing - Thomasville</span></div>
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<span style="text-align: left;"><a href="https://www.facebook.com/TheJunkRanch" target="_blank">Ranch Dressing on Facebook</a></span></div>
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<a href="http://www.thejunkranch.com/" target="_blank">Website</a></div>
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....and two more on deck from last year if they can clear their schedules.</div>
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-pUU8bWpyWfY/UXf_pdOYS6I/AAAAAAAADXU/RRlhsuYNAcI/s1600/Betty's.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-pUU8bWpyWfY/UXf_pdOYS6I/AAAAAAAADXU/RRlhsuYNAcI/s400/Betty's.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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....and one more good friend if she can get a day or two to finish some projects</div>
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-B_oxIcCJHQ4/UXgC6ZS1tLI/AAAAAAAADXs/gfasulHZL9U/s1600/Sarah's+wreath.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-B_oxIcCJHQ4/UXgC6ZS1tLI/AAAAAAAADXs/gfasulHZL9U/s320/Sarah's+wreath.jpg" width="271" /></a></div>
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And...we have <a href="https://www.facebook.com/pages/Sweet-Scoops-Beyond/128373773917986?fref=ts" target="_blank">Sweet Scoops and Beyond</a>...to serve up hotdogs, ice cream, tea and lemonade on Saturday!</div>
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So, it's looking to be another good sale here at the ranch! Ya'll mark your calendars and plan to come!<br />
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See you then!</div>
Angie @ thejunkranch http://www.blogger.com/profile/16378799206313610380noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6368861199022556829.post-81184701476576037602013-04-19T22:41:00.000-04:002013-04-20T13:51:14.422-04:00Save the Date<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
One month away....</div>
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-_cYQV9WsP6A/UXH_gkBtL3I/AAAAAAAADUk/-hcA6gnKUJ0/s1600/Country+Marketplace+Spring+Flyer.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-_cYQV9WsP6A/UXH_gkBtL3I/AAAAAAAADUk/-hcA6gnKUJ0/s400/Country+Marketplace+Spring+Flyer.jpg" width="291" /></a></div>
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We can't wait! Stay tuned for vendor profiles and photos.</div>
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Coming soon!</div>
Angie @ thejunkranch http://www.blogger.com/profile/16378799206313610380noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6368861199022556829.post-90980159246249089672013-04-15T17:35:00.000-04:002013-04-16T08:44:21.509-04:00Chapter Three...Vintage Rental<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-JkS9sIDG8gk/UWxhlrzXs3I/AAAAAAAADSM/8GFT7IZycLc/s1600/19958_1225366708118_1034469_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-JkS9sIDG8gk/UWxhlrzXs3I/AAAAAAAADSM/8GFT7IZycLc/s400/19958_1225366708118_1034469_n.jpg" width="326" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">My sister and I in about 1966</td></tr>
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Here I am in my third year in this business and true to what I said on my ABOUT page when I began this blog, I am trying on lots of hats until I find one that fits...<br />
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<span style="color: #6f3c1b; font-family: Trebuchet, Trebuchet MS, Arial, sans-serif;"><span style="line-height: 20.796875px;">I'm now wearing the <i>vintage rental hat</i>. It took a year and a friend drawing me a picture for me to realize that I should give it a try. A vintage rental business </span><span style="line-height: 20.796875px;">provides brides, event planners and photographers with unique vintage props and antique furniture for weddings, events and styled shoots. I also want to offer my skills as stylist as well if anyone has a need.</span></span><br />
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-eoCYzEwF8iE/UWxnbe8K7kI/AAAAAAAADSY/_ToSghbHVlU/s1600/Andrea.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-eoCYzEwF8iE/UWxnbe8K7kI/AAAAAAAADSY/_ToSghbHVlU/s400/Andrea.jpg" width="266" /></a></div>
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<span style="color: #6f3c1b; font-family: Trebuchet, Trebuchet MS, Arial, sans-serif;"><span style="line-height: 20.796875px;">Last year we had a cute engaged couple stop by and ask if they could have their engagement photos taken in and around our barn. We were happy to oblige. It so happened that the day they were to have their photo shoot was the day before our occasional sale and I had lots of the overflow of vintage furniture and other goods out under the studio shed. </span></span><br />
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<span style="color: #6f3c1b; font-family: Trebuchet, 'Trebuchet MS', Arial, sans-serif; line-height: 20.796875px;">The photographer, Amber Belangia of ASB Photography, hadn't been here until the day of the shoot and as I watched her I could see her cogs turning as she surveyed what we had to offer. She went out behind the barn into the woods...</span></div>
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-j5mvvoVzEAU/UWxpL0BeKNI/AAAAAAAADSs/tuksxaCYgfk/s1600/Andrea10.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="266" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-j5mvvoVzEAU/UWxpL0BeKNI/AAAAAAAADSs/tuksxaCYgfk/s400/Andrea10.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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<span style="color: #6f3c1b; font-family: Trebuchet, 'Trebuchet MS', Arial, sans-serif; line-height: 20.796875px;">She went across the road to the cow pasture... </span><br />
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-pfc72tGMzZE/UWxpkvVazVI/AAAAAAAADS8/wi3d7ieiPvE/s1600/Andrea13.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="266" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-pfc72tGMzZE/UWxpkvVazVI/AAAAAAAADS8/wi3d7ieiPvE/s400/Andrea13.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-gyjUNtdvAXA/UWxpf_VRLEI/AAAAAAAADS4/zoUn9LzT1lg/s1600/Andrea12.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-gyjUNtdvAXA/UWxpf_VRLEI/AAAAAAAADS4/zoUn9LzT1lg/s400/Andrea12.jpg" width="266" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">I just absolutely love this one! </td></tr>
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<span style="color: #6f3c1b; font-family: Trebuchet, 'Trebuchet MS', Arial, sans-serif; line-height: 20.796875px;">She went in the barn, and up to the loft... </span><br />
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-UHyUYgLWiZE/UWxqARBpCQI/AAAAAAAADTg/45_usb-L100/s1600/Andrea3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-UHyUYgLWiZE/UWxqARBpCQI/AAAAAAAADTg/45_usb-L100/s400/Andrea3.jpg" width="266" /></a></div>
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-q84lFqZJU48/UWxp_MjtR8I/AAAAAAAADTQ/Tw0SL9laIPU/s1600/Andrea11.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-q84lFqZJU48/UWxp_MjtR8I/AAAAAAAADTQ/Tw0SL9laIPU/s400/Andrea11.jpg" width="266" /></a></div>
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<span style="color: #6f3c1b; font-family: Trebuchet, 'Trebuchet MS', Arial, sans-serif; line-height: 20.796875px;">and I was pleasantly surprised that she made several pictures at the studio and among the </span><i style="color: #6f3c1b; font-family: Trebuchet, 'Trebuchet MS', Arial, sans-serif; line-height: 20.796875px;">junk! </i><br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-ZQNegua-u_k/UWxqCLsLXtI/AAAAAAAADUI/ucZreSzB8V8/s1600/Andrea8.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="266" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-ZQNegua-u_k/UWxqCLsLXtI/AAAAAAAADUI/ucZreSzB8V8/s400/Andrea8.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Did you notice you're see through a mirror view? So cool!</td></tr>
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-qXn5X4MHFCU/UWxqBVdsFGI/AAAAAAAADT8/bHyDX8yZcLc/s1600/Andrea5.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="266" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-qXn5X4MHFCU/UWxqBVdsFGI/AAAAAAAADT8/bHyDX8yZcLc/s400/Andrea5.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-ECA6E07pREc/UWxqBmvPR7I/AAAAAAAADUA/tE17ygWTeSQ/s1600/Andrea6.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="266" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-ECA6E07pREc/UWxqBmvPR7I/AAAAAAAADUA/tE17ygWTeSQ/s400/Andrea6.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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<span style="color: #6f3c1b; font-family: Trebuchet, Trebuchet MS, Arial, sans-serif;"><span style="line-height: 20.796875px;">And I realized, we are at no loss for weathered farm buildings here to use as a backdrop either! </span></span></div>
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-813vGMico5I/UWxqCzHTvWI/AAAAAAAADUU/IdJEJyGnS18/s1600/Andrea9.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-813vGMico5I/UWxqCzHTvWI/AAAAAAAADUU/IdJEJyGnS18/s400/Andrea9.jpg" width="266" /></a></div>
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<span style="color: #6f3c1b; font-family: Trebuchet, 'Trebuchet MS', Arial, sans-serif; line-height: 20.796875px; text-align: left;">These are just a few of the photos from the afternoon and I think Amber did a wonderful job! I now realize that we have the potential to provide more in the way of props and opportunities. I'm getting very excited! I can't continue without thanking my friend Lee from </span><a href="https://www.facebook.com/pages/Stressed-Out-Furniture/269185143171860" style="font-family: Trebuchet, 'Trebuchet MS', Arial, sans-serif; line-height: 20.796875px; text-align: left;" target="_blank">Stressed Out Furniture </a><span style="color: #6f3c1b; font-family: Trebuchet, 'Trebuchet MS', Arial, sans-serif; line-height: 20.796875px; text-align: left;">for making the suggestion that I should look into doing rentals. She and another new friend, Cindy from </span><a href="https://www.facebook.com/cabincreekantiques?fref=ts" style="font-family: Trebuchet, 'Trebuchet MS', Arial, sans-serif; line-height: 20.796875px; text-align: left;" target="_blank">Cabin Creek Antiques,</a><span style="color: #6f3c1b; font-family: Trebuchet, 'Trebuchet MS', Arial, sans-serif; line-height: 20.796875px; text-align: left;"> and both from my Design Junkies group, are also just starting their vintage rental businesses as well.</span></div>
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<span style="color: #6f3c1b; font-family: Trebuchet, Trebuchet MS, Arial, sans-serif;"><span style="line-height: 20.796875px;">By the time we have our Country Marketplace at the Ranch sale on May 17th and 18th, the showroom will be ready and I hope we will be well on our way to having a completed inventory portfolio including styled photos for inspiration...I'll also have PLENTY for sale that weekend under the shed, and probably under a tent as well, so don't think I've stopped junking or selling...I've set June 1st as the official opening day for rentals to start. Consultations will be by appointment and at your convenience so I'm not going to set days or times.</span></span></div>
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<span style="color: #6f3c1b; font-family: Trebuchet, Trebuchet MS, Arial, sans-serif;"><span style="line-height: 20.796875px;">There will be more to come as I progress. In the meantime you can check out more of Amber's photos on her <a href="https://www.facebook.com/pages/ASB-Photography/126666247640?fref=ts" target="_blank">Facebook page</a>, <a href="http://www.asbphotographs.com/index2.php#/home/" target="_blank">website</a> and <a href="http://www.asbphotographs.com/blog/" target="_blank">blog</a>.</span></span></div>
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<span style="color: #6f3c1b; font-family: Trebuchet, Trebuchet MS, Arial, sans-serif;"><span style="line-height: 20.796875px;">Thank you Andrea and Robert for letting me use your sweet photos! And thank you Amber for sharing you talent with us! </span></span></div>
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Angie @ thejunkranch http://www.blogger.com/profile/16378799206313610380noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6368861199022556829.post-31817103211886084712013-04-04T14:14:00.001-04:002013-04-15T14:48:30.227-04:00Secret ServiceI am taking a rare minute of solitude to update my blog and do a little "splainin"...that's southern for explaining...and it usually involves a long story.<br />
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If you know me, you know I thrive on change! My husband won't walk through the house in the dark for fear of running into something I've moved...or moved back. Some things, I like to keep the same and never change...like my hair and favorite clothes. I keep my hair long and in a ponytail the majority of days. I love wearing t-shirts, jeans and boots or flip flops...depending on the weather. But, the rest of my world pretty much changes, or <i>evolves</i>, as I prefer to call it, fairly often.<br />
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So, now I guess you are wondering what I'm about to throw at you so I'll just say it in plain English. I'm changing up Ranch Dressing again. No big surprise, you say...I know! Remember the part you just read about my husband afraid to move around in the dark because I may have moved something, or<i> <b>moved something back?</b> </i>Well, I'm rearranging at the Ranch...AGAIN... and moving some things back where I started.<br />
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It's no big deal really, but I thought you should know...I'm<i> <b>not</b> </i>going to keep regular hours after all. I'm going back to appointments <i><b>again</b></i>. This worked beautifully in the beginning and who knows why we ever try to fix things that aren't broken...but we get carried away with how good things are and just assume they can be better...speaking for myself anyway.<br />
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For being such good sports about this I'm going to tell you a little secret...we are getting ready to offer <i><b>vintage rental</b></i> for weddings, photo shoots and other events very, very soon. You'll be able to view our portfolio and see our vintage props in person at our<i><b> Country Marketplace at the Ranch</b></i> sale in May.<br />
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I'm very excited...and also very busy! I will post more about the sale and the vintage rental as we progress!<br />
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<br />Angie @ thejunkranch http://www.blogger.com/profile/16378799206313610380noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6368861199022556829.post-51427792248672303262013-03-19T11:41:00.000-04:002013-03-28T14:10:10.502-04:00The 2nd Annual Country Marketplace at the Ranch...<h2 style="text-align: center;">
<u>Save the Date</u></h2>
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2nd Annual County Marketplace<br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">Friday May 17th and Saturday May 18th</span></h3>
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Times to be determined</div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><u>Attention Potential Vendors</u></span></div>
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We are looking for a good balance of each category:</div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">Antique/Vintage</span></div>
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Primitives</div>
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Farm Finds/Old Tools/Etc<br />
Vintage Rentals/Country Weddings</div>
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Hand Painted Furniture</div>
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Upcycled/Repurposed Art</div>
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Jewelry </div>
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Farm Fresh Eggs </div>
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Local Honey</div>
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?? What do you do or have that we haven't listed??</div>
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and...</div>
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One food Vendor (Hamburgers/Hotdogs, cold drinks...etc)</div>
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<u>Things to consider before applying:</u></div>
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<span style="font-weight: normal;">This is an outside show.</span><br />
<span style="font-weight: normal;">Handmade items must be made by you and original.</span><span style="font-weight: normal;">Items can NOT be from a kit of any kind.</span><br />
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We do not supply tables, tents or electricity. </div>
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Spaces are approximately 8 x 10. </div>
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You may rent more than one space.</div>
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Vendors are expected to set up and be ready before the show starts and stay until the show closes.</div>
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If this is your first show with us it is <u>free</u> unless you want an extra booth. (Please let us know now if you'd like two booths upon acceptance)</div>
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Booth fee is $30. This pays for advertising. You keep all of your sales. </div>
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If you can say yes to each and would like to apply, please email your contact info along with photo examples of your wares. If you have booth photos send those as well. Send to angie (at) thejunkranch (dot) com</div>
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Selections will be made the first week of April and we will contact you either way. We'll send contracts with all the specifics at that time. </div>
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Thank you to all that have already contacted us! We are looking forward to another fun and profitable weekend in May!</div>
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~Angie</div>
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<br />Angie @ thejunkranch http://www.blogger.com/profile/16378799206313610380noreply@blogger.com11tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6368861199022556829.post-41440678464192438272013-03-11T10:25:00.002-04:002013-04-02T22:11:14.604-04:00My Name is Angie, and I am a HoarderI won't even begin to show you the amount of <strike>junk </strike>art supplies I have accumulated in the barn, and in my studio, especially under my work table...if you've been in my studio before you will remember that my work table is 8' x 8'. It's a wonderful work space...when it's uncluttered.<br />
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I found a few photos from a workshop I taught here a couple years ago that will give you an idea of how much space I have...or should have...<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">So many good ideas were born here!</td></tr>
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Right now, it's this full and it's just my mess! Beneath the table there is so much stuff that it's to the point that I have to dig just to see what I have...it's not good!! Yes, I am a hoarder! </div>
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I really want to begin having workshops once again and have requests every week...I am just terribly ashamed to say that I don't have room so I say, "I am working on that!". </div>
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I've tried for weeks to clean up but all I'm doing is rearranging the mess! So, last Thursday, I decided to challenge myself to use only what I have from all of my junk stashes and fill my shop here at home and my Etsy shop. I am not going to buy anything until I have nearly depleted my materials. </div>
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So far so good...</div>
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I started with the abundance of plates sitting along the edge of the wall taking up precious floor space...I don't know if you can tell from the photos but they are all altered in some way with a 3-dimensional element here or there. </div>
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When I can see my floor...including the floor underneath that 64 square feet beneath my worktable, I plan to begin offering workshops again. </div>
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I don't know what I will be inspired to do this week. I made a few more altered plates and several garden totems and flowers. I am loving these pieces for the gardens so much I may have to keep some of those! What's easier to ship I have listed t in my Etsy shop...check it out if you are interested!</div>
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..<a href="http://www.etsy.com/shop/RanchDressingOnline?ref=search_shop_redirect" target="_blank">.Ranch Dressing Online</a></div>
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Please support your local artists, and in turn, you will receive the same blessing...it's a form of tithing that I believe in and practice..<a href="http://www.blogger.com/blogger.g?blogID=6368861199022556829#editor/target=post;postID=7668238960243724107" target="_blank">.read here about Indie Tithing.</a></div>
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Have a great week and I'll see you back here next Monday! </div>
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Angie @ thejunkranch http://www.blogger.com/profile/16378799206313610380noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6368861199022556829.post-73724114735287576082013-03-05T10:45:00.000-05:002013-09-18T11:38:16.239-04:00Part 2...the Secret to Focusing on your BusinessOur first guild meeting went well with a dozen women attending, and excited to share and listen to each other. I shared a little of my story and my rules for staying focused...and I 'm glad to know that I am not the only one that goes off on tangents wanting to try too many things. I had a moment there when I was afraid they would think I was off my rocker..turns out we are all cut from the same cloth when it comes to wanting to try new ideas. It was indeed good to meet with these women and as one lady put it..."I finally feel like I am with my people."<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div style="text-align: left;">To recap yesterday's post, I'm working to master this ability to focus on growing my business this year and to develop it into something unique that represents me as an artist and shopkeeper. If you landed here first you can read part one here..<a href="http://ranchdressingcowgirlstyle.blogspot.com/2013/03/the-secret-to-focusing-on-your.html" target="_blank">Part 1</a></div><br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">I committed to having regular hours this year. A BIG step for me</td></tr>
</tbody></table><div style="text-align: left;">I have made a list of rules for myself to help me stay on task. I offer them here as suggestions...they are in no particular order really, and you can tweak them to suit your personality and business.</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br />
</div>1. Have a loose schedule...daily and weekly... things happen and change but get back on it as quickly as possible. Work in blocks of time (60-90 mins) and take a few minutes in between to regroup thoughts.<br />
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2. Know my limits...time, energy, budget and talents. Learn to say no sometimes, to myself...and others. It's okay.<br />
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3. Just because I can do something doesn't mean I should do it as part of my business...ie...antique booths, painted furniture, every new idea I see on Pinterest!! Do it for myself and have fun. Everything is not about making money.<br />
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</div>4. Again...Everything is not about making money! Enjoy whatever I am doing while I'm doing it...even grocery shopping, cleaning or pulling weeds out of the gardens. There is great satisfaction for me to have a well stocked pantry, a clean house and beautiful plants and flowers.<br />
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5. Network with like minded peers. Professional contacts know what I am talking about whereas spouses or family and friends may just nod and never say anything when I want to bounce ideas. Too, accountability will keep me on my path.<br />
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6. Never compare myself or my shop to my peers. It's not fair. Be myself. It's so much easier!<br />
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7. Set goals..daily, weekly, monthly, yearly... and review them each morning, so that I do not get distracted! I can't meet my goals when I veer off my path too far.<br />
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8. Work for a period of time every day without tv, social media, phone, and email . Do NOT check my phone for FB updates or messages...It can wait! Schedule in social media times and forget it the rest of the day. Get lost in just my work.<br />
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9. Use lunch time for just eating and relaxing for an hour. Eat healthy..Recharge for the afternoon.<br />
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10. Make time for myself! This is where it's okay to go down those rabbit trails. Have fun!<br />
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Thanks so much for reading and commenting! I hope you stay focused and have the best year ever!<br />
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</div>Angie @ thejunkranch http://www.blogger.com/profile/16378799206313610380noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6368861199022556829.post-68417218626221605462013-03-04T16:20:00.005-05:002014-06-21T11:18:25.119-04:00The Secret to Focusing on Your Business...Part 1<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-kjnA1u-TSC0/UTUMeO2IrvI/AAAAAAAADOc/ORgpb8H9m9I/s1600/rickflyfishing.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-kjnA1u-TSC0/UTUMeO2IrvI/AAAAAAAADOc/ORgpb8H9m9I/s400/rickflyfishing.jpg" height="300" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">My husband, at about 20, focusing on his passion</td></tr>
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<b>Focus</b>...my word of the year. I've talked about it several times this year in my blog here and on my Facebook page...always the joke of course....then someone took me seriously and thought I had actually mastered this enormous ability and asked me to speak to a group of like minded people. EEEK!<br />
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We are only three months into the new year, so I haven't exactly mastered it yet!...I am the poster child for adult ADD, but, I'm doing better. I have recognized a few places where I tend to get distracted over and over and I'm learning to make corrections.<br />
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<b>My Story...</b><br />
Let's go back to about 1999 or 2000...I discovered the Internet! As some of you know, I was a floorcloth designer and was at that time very focused and had made a name for myself on a national level. I was considered one of the modern pioneers responsible for bringing the craft back into popularity. My ten year old business was successful and I was busy, busy busy too with two young children and a <i>work out of town </i>husband. I look back now and wonder how the heck I did all that I did??<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-7Ecgj1j1YOg/UTUO35cc5QI/AAAAAAAADOo/L_HpwtI_99Y/s1600/Floorcloth+Book.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-7Ecgj1j1YOg/UTUO35cc5QI/AAAAAAAADOo/L_HpwtI_99Y/s400/Floorcloth+Book.jpg" height="400" width="333" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">My work was included in this book</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-dtQkEv0CH9w/UTUO4AAZyGI/AAAAAAAADOw/N5NMn7qzszE/s1600/Herb___Quilt_tabletop_pieces-586x404_1_-471x343.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-dtQkEv0CH9w/UTUO4AAZyGI/AAAAAAAADOw/N5NMn7qzszE/s400/Herb___Quilt_tabletop_pieces-586x404_1_-471x343.jpg" height="291" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Included not only in the book but also as part of Lexington Furniture's Weekend Retreat Accessory Collection</td></tr>
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<span style="text-align: center;">Remember back then also, when the Internet was dial up and we had limited usage? That was probably a good thing and we just didn't realize how much! When broadband and unlimited usage became available to us, I literally would sit for hours surfing the web...</span><br />
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The Internet opened up a whole new world for many of us. There was Ebay and online galleries and websites galore with information on any topic we needed to know about. Blogs were the most wonderful things with their tutorials, beautiful photos, and peeks into the lives of other artists who appeared to both do and have it all! It was heaven...and that was before Facebook or Pinterest!!<br />
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One day I woke up and realized I had <i>information overload. </i>To make that even worse I had also bought and read every book I found on marketing online and how to work social networks....more information...and more to do!<br />
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By 2009, I had gotten so distracted that I lost all of my direction in my personal life and career..Over the last ten years I had joined multiple online galleries, had seller accounts on both Ebay and Etsy, created websites and started blogs all of which took hours and hours of my time each day. I was juried into a very prestigious western art show, The Western Design Conference, and traveled to Wyoming three times in as many years. Locally, I rented booth spaces, exhibited my work in local art shows, joined art guilds, opened and closed an art gallery, taught children's art classes and ran summer art camps. I painted not only floorcloths, but furniture, pet portraits, house portraits, murals, Dr. Scholls's sandals, cowboy hats and even one of those Pigs in the City for Uptown Lexington.<br />
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I began to grieve the life I wasted while I was busy veering off my own path and down too many rabbit trails! It was nothing like I had planned and dreamed about. I didn't like my life!...because it wasn't <i>my life.</i></div>
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In 2008, a friend and I took a day off and went to the NC Arts Incubator in Siler City for more "inspiration". On our way home our last stop was at sweet little primitive shop that I'd always wanted to visit. I was very inspired. The shop was quaint. It was located on the potter's farm and most of all, I could see that she was focused on what she was doing. I didn't want to leave and I found myself going back often. It felt good there. </div>
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After almost a year of thinking about it and talking my husband into "just one more thing"...we decided to open our own shop. I would open a handmade and vintage shop at our home in my studio...but this time I would have to focus on <i>just this one thing</i>. I had to or I was going to be single at 50 years old. It took another year to get the building ready and get the inventory moved in. Our grand opening was in November 2010.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-j9s2JIIpTJ0/UTUPzTb1EQI/AAAAAAAADPE/YqZ0sRu3oWA/s1600/a+studio.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-j9s2JIIpTJ0/UTUPzTb1EQI/AAAAAAAADPE/YqZ0sRu3oWA/s400/a+studio.jpg" height="300" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">My studio before it was Ranch Dressing<br />
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<span style="font-size: small;">Focusing does not come easy for creative people! </span></div>
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<span style="font-size: small;">A year after opening my shop I got distracted again by "designer antique booths"...it was right down my alley and I justified it by saying that it was good advertising. It would lead customers to my shop. In reality though, if my booths looked good my shop would be lacking and vise versa. I couldn't do it. I was once again spreading myself too thin but because I knew other women who did both a shop and booths. I felt like I should be able to pull it off and this was just part of "the business".</span><br />
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</span> <span style="font-size: small;">I have had five booths in three antique malls since opening my shop in 2010...I closed my last one the end of January 2013. I have everything under one roof and can say I am truly happy about it.</span><br />
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-egrpWHBZZVo/UTUSWpRwSJI/AAAAAAAADPQ/Q2eR9nuM7vs/s1600/IMG_0377.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-egrpWHBZZVo/UTUSWpRwSJI/AAAAAAAADPQ/Q2eR9nuM7vs/s400/IMG_0377.JPG" height="300" width="400" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;">One of my booths at the Depot at Gibson Mill</span></div>
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Beginning in 2012, instead of a new year resolution I began to have a word of the year. That year it was <i>balance</i>....and this year,<i> focus</i>. Thank goodness I chose balance first! In order to focus you have to have balance in your life. I think this is the secret...having balance makes it easier to focus.<br />
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It takes time to transition from being too busy to being balanced but, it's definitely doable. You will figure it out! Start where you are spending too much time...it won't always be where you are wasting time...just where you are over spending. You may not want to stop working in time to make dinner for your family. Our work is fun and we get carried away...but that's not balanced if we are neglecting our family. Like me you may be trying out every good idea you see, thinking you can do it just as well or even better by the time you put your spin on it...then you go off down that rabbit trail and leave what you were just getting good at to try something new.<br />
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There is nothing at all wrong with trying something new and wonderful that you've found on Pinterest or saw in a shop somewhere, but how about just doing it for yourself or for a gift for someone...or maybe better yet, how about supporting the artist you got the idea from...what a novel idea! We can be a little good at lots of things or really really good at what we are naturally gifted in...so, so hard for us artsy people!<br />
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Once you find your <i>balance</i>, your <i>focus</i> will come together easier. You will understand your limits and that having limits are not bad...just like limited Internet or phone plans...not all that bad!<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-1JuvQcJu26o/UTUTdBsfBKI/AAAAAAAADPU/SJyPsYV7JbA/s1600/2013+02+02_1491.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-1JuvQcJu26o/UTUTdBsfBKI/AAAAAAAADPU/SJyPsYV7JbA/s400/2013+02+02_1491.JPG" height="300" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Ranch Dressing Feb. 2013</td></tr>
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Tonight I will give my talk to our new guild/support group serving the artisan and vintage/antique industry in our area... come back here tomorrow for<a href="http://ranchdressingcowgirlstyle.blogspot.com/2013/03/part-2the-secret-to-focusing-on-your.html" target="_blank"> part 2 for my 10 suggestions for staying on track in your business</a>.<br />
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Thanks so much for reading and commenting!<br />
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<br />Angie @ thejunkranch http://www.blogger.com/profile/16378799206313610380noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6368861199022556829.post-9587820187322724512013-02-11T16:19:00.000-05:002013-03-04T16:01:46.358-05:00All Under One Roof<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-s1SArsOJfNE/URlUlbQcZlI/AAAAAAAADMM/sG3u09fHB_Y/s1600/2013+02+02_1491.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="300" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-s1SArsOJfNE/URlUlbQcZlI/AAAAAAAADMM/sG3u09fHB_Y/s400/2013+02+02_1491.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">View from the stairs of my little shop, Ranch Dressing Handmade & Vintage</td></tr>
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On the last day of January I began rearranging, stuffing, stacking, and layering all of my inventory. All of it!...under one roof. It's been a long time since I have been able to <i>focus</i> (my word of the year) like this and it feels good!<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-PDA8CvbF8oY/URlUm2QHisI/AAAAAAAADMU/mxC4-8BwEWs/s1600/2013+02+02_1492.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="300" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-PDA8CvbF8oY/URlUm2QHisI/AAAAAAAADMU/mxC4-8BwEWs/s400/2013+02+02_1492.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Down the center</td></tr>
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I closed my booth in Lexington and moved two truck loads back home. It was bittersweet as I've already told some of you that have been in. I had such high hopes, but I was really just spreading myself too thin.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-52D0Y1Z0EcQ/URlUpC5xwoI/AAAAAAAADMc/xS-bA0dUsD8/s1600/2013+02+02_1493.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="300" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-52D0Y1Z0EcQ/URlUpC5xwoI/AAAAAAAADMc/xS-bA0dUsD8/s400/2013+02+02_1493.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Kitchen Wares</td></tr>
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In retrospect, and from all the good comments from people coming in here the last few weeks, I don't know why I ever ventured away from my own shop in the first place. It is so easy here and it was always so stressful and really hard keeping one or more booths while I attempted to keep things going here. I'm happy to say that now I'm focusing...there's my word again...I'm moving right along and things are falling into place. For the last two weeks, I've had new customers coming from my Facebook campaign and I've also managed to get my studio organized enough to start planning for some workshops.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-1qHL2cqpSiE/URlUqdGYfuI/AAAAAAAADMk/rxLcHx6HUG4/s1600/2013+02+02_1494.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="300" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-1qHL2cqpSiE/URlUqdGYfuI/AAAAAAAADMk/rxLcHx6HUG4/s400/2013+02+02_1494.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Back Corner</td></tr>
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As you can see the shop is brimming with stuff and that I don't need to be looking for anything else to go in here to sell...but I'm planning on having our vendor sale again this May and I will need extra things to go under the shed. I'm already on the hunt for those things!...and for vendors...I'm planning to send out information to potential vendors in March so if you may be interested get me your contact info.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-bcyrwoHGwbs/URlUrgWn2XI/AAAAAAAADMs/WCI3udXASSw/s1600/2013+02+02_1490.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="300" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-bcyrwoHGwbs/URlUrgWn2XI/AAAAAAAADMs/WCI3udXASSw/s400/2013+02+02_1490.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">I've even taken in the stairwell going up to my studio</td></tr>
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If you haven't entered our contest yet for the $100 shopping spree here at the ranch, you still have time. You can get all the information here on the blog from this link...<a href="http://ranchdressingcowgirlstyle.blogspot.com/2013/02/feeling-lucky.html" target="_blank">CONTEST</a><br />
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And also, our February edition of our newsletter went out today. You can view if from this link...<a href="http://myemail.constantcontact.com/News-from--Ranch-Dressing-Handmade-and-Vintage.html?soid=1112120109984&aid=UvQCwz7J-QE" target="_blank">NEWSLETTER</a>. If you'd like to have it sent directly to your inbox each month along with an occasional announcement or two please sign up at the bottom of the newsletter.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-sIG10_z7pls/URlUtLjezXI/AAAAAAAADM0/w-qdVvcZPig/s1600/2013+02+02_1495.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="300" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-sIG10_z7pls/URlUtLjezXI/AAAAAAAADM0/w-qdVvcZPig/s400/2013+02+02_1495.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The other back corner of Ranch Dressing</td></tr>
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Thanks so much for supporting our small business and too, for shopping local. It's not only fun to get out and off the beaten path once in a while, it's the right thing to do! Thank you!<br />
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Angie @ thejunkranch http://www.blogger.com/profile/16378799206313610380noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6368861199022556829.post-50219765933836059772013-02-01T13:30:00.000-05:002013-02-03T13:31:00.652-05:00Feeling Lucky??<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-MHhxBN3M8dk/UQwGpwGuD8I/AAAAAAAADLo/c3Hfq-Luo4M/s1600/Feb+Promo.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-MHhxBN3M8dk/UQwGpwGuD8I/AAAAAAAADLo/c3Hfq-Luo4M/s400/Feb+Promo.jpg" width="300" /></a></div>
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We want to beef up our biz in February and thank you in return for being great and supporting small businesses like ours. See below for your opportunity to win a $100 shopping spree here at Ranch Dressing.<br />
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1) If you already follow my blog leave a comment for me telling me you'd LOVE to win, for ONE ENTRY.<br />
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2) New followers will receive ONE ENTRY.<br />
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3) Refer a friend to follow our blog and receive TWO ENTRIES for each friend. (Have them tell me you sent them.)<br />
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4) If you have a facebook account you can gain more entries the same way...<a href="https://www.facebook.com/TheJunkRanch">www.facebook.com/TheJunkRanch</a><br />
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5) If you are local visit the shop. If it's your first visit you will receive TWO ENTRIES. No purchase necessary. For every $10 you spend you will receive THREE ENTRIES.<br />
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Even if you don't win this time we always punch your appreciation card for every $25 you spend with us. When you have 5 punches you will get 20% off your next purchase. We love our friends and want you to love shopping here!<br />
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The contest begins today Feb. 1 and ends Thursday, Feb 28. We will put all the entries in a hat and randomly choose one lucky "Rancher". The winner will be announced March 1, 2013.<br />
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...Long distance Ranchers are eligible...you will be able to choose from our photo albums on Facebook...you do NOT need an account to see our page...<a href="https://www.facebook.com/TheJunkRanch" target="_blank">facebook.com/TheJunkRanch</a><br />
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Good luck and best wishes to you all!!Angie @ thejunkranch http://www.blogger.com/profile/16378799206313610380noreply@blogger.com0