The Hog Shed

Bonnie Mohrs Holiday Open House

2011-11-08T05:04:00.000-08:00

My friend Bonnie Mohr is having a Holiday Open House on December 1-4.

She is a wonderful artist and her studio is fabulous. Bonnies studio is just a few

miles west of The Hog Shed. You can't help but get into the Holiday spirit when

visiting Bonnies farm. For more info go to www.bonniemohr.com

Have a wonderful day, Claire

November Holiday Sale at the Hog Shed

2011-11-06T14:20:00.000-08:00

The Hog Sheds last sale of the year is coming up!!! November 10-13.

In just 4 days!!!

When you come to this sale you can't help but get into the spirit of the

Christmas season. The shop fantastic!!! I feel like having a party and

you are all invited. We are joining with Angvalls Prairie Gift Shop

and Holaseks Greenhouse for a Holiday Open House Weekend.

Be sure to stop by each store for great ideas, gifts, treats and a chance

to be in a gift drawing. Sounds like fun!!!

2011-10-03T18:32:00.000-07:00

Autumn in Minnesota is awesome!!! Our October Sale is in a few days. October 6, 7, 8, and 9. The shop looks warm and wonderful. I think I like this months look the best so far this year. Wait until you see it. We are having a Ladies Night Out on Friday from 6pm to 9pm. We had it in May and it was such a huge success and so much fun, we are having it again. Don't miss the fun. Here are a few pics of what you might see at this great sale....

2011-09-06T19:23:00.000-07:00

                                         The September sale is in 2 days!!! My list of things to do is getting
                                          shorter. The shop looks great and I have lots of back up. I am soooo
                                          excited to be back in the swing of things.....

This area is so sharp!! Wait till you see.

I just think these quote pillows on canvas are really neat!!!

What do you think are in these drawers.
It is soooo fun and you will see are the sale

2011-06-07T15:50:00.000-07:00

It's time for another sale!!!!!

The Hog Sheds' June sale is this week

June 9,10,11,12

The May Sale is this week!!

2011-05-09T20:44:00.000-07:00

The May sale is almost here. May 12,13,14,&15. We are almost
ready. The shop is bursting at the beams!!! This is going to be a
great sale. We have so many new and terrific pieces. The shop looks totally different from the last sale. Don't miss this one!!!

This area looks like a farmhouse kitchen.

This is a beautiful new chair with a matching ottoman from Cyndis' Recreations.

This area has an "Up North" look

I just love these lanterns. Wait until you see this room. Shannon has been working hard and it has a French look
Looking forward to seeing everyone.....Claire

Happy Trails!!

2011-05-03T07:21:00.000-07:00

This is Lynn & George. Lynn is the proud new owner of this very cute 1966 Coachman "Middi". We had a great time redoing this camper. She is going to have a wonderful summer with this trailer. Lynn has already joined Sisters on the Fly (woman that meet all over the country and enjoy the out of doors in vintage campers) and has named her new trailer.....Chicklet Viney Rose. How fun!!!

             She is having no trouble hooking up .

Off they go and what fun they will have!!

2011-04-19T07:39:00.000-07:00

Here are a few pics that I meant to blog last week.
These were taken during the sale.

The shop looked so nice. Very springy, despite the weather. Snow is in the

forecast for today. All I can say is "Boo Hoo".

This is a chair that Cyndi slipcovered. We still have it and it is very

"cottage chic". I love it. We sold this white table.

This was our "blackish" area. A warm but elegant feel

to this spot.

What a find!! A 1950 Capitol Bingo Machine.

Mint condition....Sold right away!!!

I love bunnies!!

Nancy loves the chaise that she just bought.

So does Painter, the cat.

This is the "man cave". I think this Chevy truck

panel would make a great headboard in a boys room.

Lots of accessories!!

Bunnies under the stairs. We have wonderfully

scented Hillhouse candles and terrific soaps

from European Soaps. I love Honey Almond!!

2011-04-18T07:04:00.000-07:00

We had a great sale last week. It was so fun to see everyone after the long winter break. Now I am junking, painting furniture and setting up the shop for the next sale....May, 12-15. Here are some pics of the sale. Oh, we sold the little 13 ft. 1966 Coachman. It is so cute. It is going to a great home with a couple who are excited to go camping!!

Here is little Caroline Elizabeth. Paying us a very first visit.

Caroline and her mother, Melissa

Ayla and Ella are almost two. So cute and very busy

What are the chances that two Caroline Elizabeths would meet for the

first time, at the Hog Shed?

Here is little Harper with her Mom. Love the shades!!

2011-04-06T20:24:00.000-07:00

Tomorrow is the big day. The start of our April Sale. The shop is full. We've worked hard.

This is a great 1950's Bingo machine.
I think it is so cool. Great sign too!!

Old books are fun to decorate with

We have lots new spring candles

Old glass jars have so many uses and have a wonderful country look

The cottage/dress shop

2011-04-04T05:26:00.000-07:00

Wait until you see the cottage. It is full of trendy, name brand and affordable clothing All re-purposed, re-styled re....... just for you. Be sure to check this out when you come for the sale. This is a "don't want to miss it" experience. Katie and Sue have been working really hard to make the cottage look very girly and fun. Here are a few pics

Spring is at The Hog Shed

2011-03-31T18:38:00.000-07:00

Welcome to The Hog Sheds April Sale.

It's next week, April 7-10. Lots to do......

Nests = Spring

The green garden room

Milk glass is so pretty

2011-03-23T18:56:00.000-07:00

Where is Spring!!!

Poor robins. Looking for food in the snow. They are enjoying my Red
Splendor crag apple tree.

It looks pretty but I want Spring!!!

2011-03-21T17:54:00.000-07:00

This is the first postcard of 2011. I think it is so cute. I used a 1908 American postcard for the front. Isn't it fun?? Please note that this is the only postcard that I will be sending for the first 3 sales. Just trying to be more paper conscious and also saving a few $$. Shannon and I are having a blast getting the shop ready for this sale. We have so many new and wonderful pieces. Looking forward to seeing all of you soon.....Claire

2011-03-07T17:24:00.000-08:00

This is my second load from an estate sale and I have one more to go. I got lucky,

this is a hard time of year to find great "stuff". Now I have lots of work to do

to get ready for my first sale of the year. April 7,8,9, & 10.

Back to work!!!

2011-02-23T11:01:00.000-08:00

Today Shannon and I started working in The Hog Shed after our winter break. As you can see we have had a lot of snow here in Minnesota and I got a bit of exercise shoveling the

doorway out. We are full of ideas and have lots of new "stuff" for the April sale.

Thankfully our new furnace is keeping us warm. I will show you more of us setting up the shop in future posts.....Claire

2011-01-31T07:28:00.000-08:00

I'm back!!!!! But my blog is still under construction.....
My mantra for 2011 is "keeping it simple" but it is hard to
do sometimes. I have decided on sale dates for this new year.
6 sales at the farm and the Junk Bonanza sale. They are posted on the side bar. I have lots of new ideas and some new looks for the shop. I miss chatting with all of my customers. Can't wait to see you in the Spring. In the meantime I will have to get my camera out and post some pics to update you on what Shannon and I are doing to get ready for the Spring Sale. Happy Day......Claire

November postcard

2010-11-02T19:27:00.000-07:00

Here is the November postcard. It is an early 1900's and is from the USA. I really like it and I hope you do too.
I am excited about this sale. I am kind of enjoying getting into the "Christmas spirit". The shop is looking
wonderful and festive. I actually am thinking that just a few snowflakes might just make it all come together!!!
The weather has been wonderful for setting up the shop and getting the gardens ready for winter.
Hope to see you at this sale.....Claire

Outside of the Hog Shed in October

2010-10-18T18:57:00.000-07:00

I love the colors of Fall. I love being in the country in October.

The purple clary sage in the background looks great with the orange pumpkins


I took a few pics of the outside of our sale last week. The weather was great. Our next sale is in 3 weeks so there is lots to do as we will set up for a holiday sale. I just love Fall. Now I will have to get into a Holiday mind set. It is hard to do when the weather is exceptionally nice.

October sale vignettes

2010-10-15T05:39:00.000-07:00

Our October sale started yesterday. I took a few pics of the groupings just before we opened. It was a fun day. Lots of great customers and the weather is just perfect. I'll show the outside tomorrow.

October Sale...14-17

2010-10-13T06:13:00.000-07:00

I just love this postcard!! My sale is tomorrow....Wow!!! The shop looks great and is full, full, full. I'm crazy about the wonderfully warm colours of October. The weather here in Minnesota is just fabulous and the trees are beautiful. The farmers are busy in the fields. Life is good!!
If you are in my neighborhood, please stop by.....Claire

More on the Junk Bonanza!!

2010-09-30T09:11:00.000-07:00

I am really really behind in my blogging. Just to much going on(that time of year) and I have a mega cold(that time of year). So here are pics of the Junk Bonanza. It was a blast. Lots of work but well worth it. Everyone was so great!! The customers were the best and the show was super well organized. I will see you all next year as I have already signed my contract for 2011.

Here are Layla and Kevin from The Lettered Cottage blog. So nice and just as cute in person as they are on their blog.

Layla and Kevin were video taping all over the Bonanza. Layla liked my shabby wash tub. I think it would have made a neat party bar. I sold it!!

Junk Bonanza here we come!!

2010-09-14T22:06:00.000-07:00

This week Shannon and I planned out our Junk Bonanza display in our big shed and now it is loaded in a
trailer ready to head out to the sale in the morning. Here are a few pics of the display. We really like what we
are bringing and we hope you do to. Hope to see you at the sale....Claire

Trailer Tuesdays

2010-09-13T21:44:00.000-07:00

Here are a few pics of the newest travel trailer that we have been working

on. This is a 1966 Coachmen. Lots of red in this trailer. So cute!! We will be

having this trailer at the Junk Bonanza Sale. This is a perfect trailer for one

or two.


This is the kitchen area


Looking through the doorway

The table makes into a queen size bed.

Cyndi did a wonderful job with the cushions, pillows and curtains.

Every camper needs a good book!!

Try not to miss the Junk Bonanza Sale. It is going to be fantastic. If you come

to the sale, stop by and say, Hi!!

A Sneak Peak

2010-09-11T09:23:00.000-07:00

Here is a look at a few finds that I am getting ready for The Hog Shed sale and Junk Bonanza, I still have alot of tweaking to do. Don't you love the pails with numbers?? I have alot and I think I will fill them with pumpkins or mums.

2010-09-10T05:15:00.000-07:00

This is a copy of an early 1900 postcard. I can just imagine the fun this little girl was having
catching the baby pig. I just love this pic.....Claire

The September sale is just around the corner and Junk Bonanza is next week. It is a busy and exciting time of year!!!

I'm back and do I have pumpkins!!!!

2010-09-07T15:33:00.000-07:00

This is a Rouge Vif D'Etampes. aka The Cinderella Pumpkin. Great to decorate with and a bit different. I grew 3 different kinds of pumpkins for the Fall sales.

This is one of the tiny pumpkins I grew; Jack Be Little. Also fun for decorating and can be used as placecards for a party or they look great in a glass bowl

I just love these little Baby Boo's. Very fun to decorate with and you can glitter the tops to look like frost!! I will have lots for sale.

After some time away I am finally back and busy, busy,busy!!! I am getting ready for the Junk Bonanza Sale and then The Hog Shed's September Sale on Sept. 23-26. I also have been getting a small 1966 Coachmen trailer ready for Junk Bonanza. You can see a pic here http://www.junkbonanza.com/activities.php and I will have more pics in a few days.It's very cute!

It's hydrangea drying time

2010-07-30T10:22:00.000-07:00

I really like hydrangeas and I have several varieties on our property. Last year I dried the Annabelle hydrangeas by hanging them from the rafters of The Hog Shed. Looked terrific but they dried badly. Very brittle and very shrunken looking. In the past I have picked them when they are about to go from white to a green and feel lighter. I pull off the leaves and put them in buckets with about 4 inches of water. Then I find an airy place to put them for about 2 weeks. I just did this and put them in the cottage where I have lots of room right now. They are looking good and are almost dried. I wish I could get them not to turn brown. Some always do for me. I really like to use them in the fall for decorating and for Christmas too. If anyone has another way to dry Annabelle hydrangeas I would love to hear from you.
Have a happy day.....Claire

Trailer Tuesdays

2010-07-20T18:55:00.000-07:00

I think this little trailer is a cutie and I haven't even done anything to it yet. While big K is working on the Fan trailer I have decided to start the interior of this 10 foot long 1965 Coach camping trailer. It is in great shape and and will be a quick fixer upper. The exterior will be painted with a big red stripe going around. So sharp and cute!!! Wait until you see the finished results.

Here is the fabric that I have picked out for the cushions, pillows and the vintage tablecloths will be the curtains. The red is a vinyl and the red and white stripe is pillow ticking that I love. It will be the front and back of the cushions. It is going to be so cute!!!

It doesn't look like much but.....

2010-07-19T14:07:00.000-07:00

I know this load doesn't look like much but wait until you see these metal shelves in all their glory. I am so excited about this "find". Can't wait to clean and poly them and in The Hog Shed they will go for the Sept. sale. They are so cool. The rack on top of them has another great use for our Sept. sale. I will let you know soon about something new at The Hog Shed. Shannon and I have started back to work today after being off for about a month. This is why The Hog Shed is called an "occasional " sale. We have lots to do and will need the next six weeks to get ready for Junk Bonanza and The Hog Shed Sept. sale

Trailer Tuesdays

2010-07-06T08:26:00.000-07:00

This is in February as we are about to start.

The center interior is in great condition. The back and front had some water damage. This trailer was built from the inside out so we had to remove the "skin" from the outside to replace the wood and paneling on the inside.

I thought I would show you my slow progress on the latest trailer my husband and I are redoing. We are kind of new at this and we didn't realize how much work some trailers can be. We thought this cute 1967 Fan trailer would be done and on the road by now. It has been alot of work and still is a work in progress. When done it will be a terrific trailer. Here are some before and during pics of the trailer. We are about 2 weeks from having it painted - white and teal, I think.
I have all the fabric ready to go for the window treatment, cushions and extras. I will need about 2 weeks. I am seeing light at the end of this tunnel. Update next Tuesday....

A great find!!

2010-06-29T07:13:00.000-07:00

I just love this chaise that I found at a church rummage sale. The best part is that it was only $20.00. Mint condition. Very comfortable, like new and covered in a light pink polished cotton. I am going to slip cover it as soon as I find just the right material. Oh, I am keeping this find!!!

I love the tufting. This chair is soooo cute and I have been looking for one for my bedroom for a long time. When I found it I jumped up and down; did my I am happy happy happy dance and I think I frightened the little lady in charge of the furniture.
I am not having a sale until September. Taking a little time off to recharge. But I am still junking.....

The Lampshade Ladies!!

2010-06-12T15:49:00.000-07:00

Can you tell that we are having a fun sale? This is Joyce and her sister
Millie who are attending a local country music festival(Winstock). It has
been raining for the last 3 days and Joyce and Millie are going to wear
their new "umbrellas" back to the festival. Sometimes it helps to have
a great sense of humor. Go Millie and Joyce!!!

June Sale

2010-06-08T04:35:00.000-07:00

Here is the card for our June sale. It dates about 1900, Belgium.
I think it is so charming. Just look at the clothes they are wearing.
The children look so happy and adventurous. We do a big sale just
once a year and it is almost here. So much to do. The shop looks
fantastic and so different from last month. The cottage is now a
"guest house". It is so welcoming. I want to stay in it!!

In the gardens

2010-06-03T14:17:00.000-07:00

I have been out of the blogging loop lately and I apologise. I

have been working long hours on the many gardens we have on
our property. It is just that time of year. I love having my business
so close but I also feel that the gardens need to look great.

This is next to the cottage and I am replanting this area

This is near the house and it is the hosta garden. I am about to divide
and clean up this area.

This is also mainly a shade garden. Next year it needs to be redone.
The ferns and a peony have really taken off. There is a small pond
on the left.

This garden is in front of The Hog Shed. It is full of color.
The William Baffin climbing rose is blooming and so are the irises.
My roses are just starting to bloom.
I took off the doors to the corn crib and filled it with good soil.
I have mostly hostas planted in it with a path down the middle.
This little garden is about 3 years old and has been a bit of a
challange. Impatiens grow great in here.

My perennial garden. Just finished weeding!! Now it needs
the compost.
The other end of the perennial garden
My wisteria is in bloom. The scent of wisteria is fabulous.
What a wonderful welcome at the entrance of our farm house.

I am about to transplant a few hostas and lilies in this
new shady area.

The catmint has gone wild!! The peonies look great. I
also have hummingbirds in this area.
This is the other side of the cottage. I just love my old birdbath.

The Cottage...May Sale

2010-05-22T06:57:00.001-07:00

The cottage looked so pretty and summery for the May sale. Here are a few pictures. I sold most of these pieces and already have started a new look for June. This building is fun to work with.

A black and white vignette

2010-05-14T17:37:00.000-07:00

I filled this china cabinet with vintage photos for this sale. I had so much fun
looking at all of them. I mixed in a few old box cameras and it turned out to be

a very fun vignette.

I just love the old dresses.

An old brownie camera!! How about her glasses!!

This picture and cards were drawn by a friend, Bonnie Mohr. Bonnie is very
talented. The poem "I do" is written by her and is wonderful.

Setting up the shop for the May sale

2010-05-08T10:31:00.000-07:00

I took a few pics of the shop for you to see. We have been
working really hard despite the cold and rainy weather. Shannon
and I were just soaked yesterday hauling finished pieces in the rain.
Enough complaining... I really like this zinc top library table. So cool!!
It looks great with everything. The little bench on top and the
chair have blue and brown paisley covers.

I really like the corrugated tin on the walls. This is a super
long table with a zinc top and grey blue bottom. The six
chairs are covered in a blue paisley to match. I think I
will have to lower those chandeliers.

Wall decor!!

A fun table vignette. I am just thrilled with our new
Aspen Bay candles. They smell terrific and burn very well and long.

Cyndi just dropped off a new chair. The colors are just great and complete
the look in this room. Check out her blog; (link on right side) and you will see
more pics of this chair and other creations. What talent!!

Lots of goodies for the May sale

2010-05-06T07:01:00.000-07:00

I just love junking. Got a great load last weekend. The back seat is full of the
fragile pieces. Sometimes it
feels like Christmas. (notice the old sled?) So many cool things.
So many possibilities.

Shannon has been very busy priming all of the goodies. I just
love these chairs...set of 6 with a captains chair

A sea of white. Lots of dressers

The priming is done. We let it stand for 24 hours and then we paint.
I'll show you later how beautiful "cottage white" is on this furniture. Now its
time to rest.

The May postcard

2010-05-03T19:02:00.000-07:00

Here is the postcard for our May sale. It went in the mail today. It is a vintage
postcard from France, dated 1900. The women look like they
are having fun dancing with baby pigs. The Hog Shed will be fun too!!
We have so much new furniture. Lots of white!!! I picked up a truck load
of rusty garden decor just for this sale....

Lots to do!!!

2010-04-28T06:09:00.000-07:00

Doesn't this look like a mess?? This is what my work area looks like
right now!! Lots to do...repairing, priming, painting & staining. Whewww!!!

I also just picked up a small load of rusty iron. I like to use these pieces this time of
year because it looks so great in the garden or on a porch or deck. The bikes are
from the 50's. So cool....great in the garden or even wall art. Fun!!!

The Cottage

2010-04-27T05:33:00.000-07:00

This is how the cottage looked during our April sale. We are about to paint it from top to bottem. White ceilings and walls that are Spiced Vinegar. This is sort of a linen color and goes well with everything. The cottage is going to become a "guesthouse". Great ornate white bed and lots and lots of whites throughout. Very feminine. Well, off to work....Claire

A great sale with great customers

2010-04-20T18:17:00.000-07:00

This is Alexandra and and my daughter Betsy. They worked great together
at the register on Sat. It was busy and they had lots to do.
Below are a few pics of some of the great ladies that stopped at the sale over
the weekend.

I just love seeing Ruth (left) She is just a ray of sunshine.
She came all the way from Anoka and brought a friend.

My down the road neighbor,Maryanne came with her daughter and
granddaughters.

Here is Maryanne(without the shades) and Patti. Maryanne just can't
stay away. She must be having fun....

These wonderful ladies(2 sisters and 1 daughter) drove a long way, from Chokio, Mn
That 's near Morris. Corlys, Arlou and Emily. It was so nice to meet you.
This is why I have The Hog Shed. I just love meeting and getting to know all of you.
Thank you all so much. It was a wonderful weekend.....Claire

Great customers!!

2010-04-16T18:34:00.000-07:00

Jennifer, Lester Prairie, Karen and Denise, came a bit further from Willmer

We have had two wonderful busy days at The Hog Shed. Here are a few
of my fantastic customers who have helped make The Hog Shed
a success.

Maryann and Patti, bookclub pals and pug owners

Everyone loves Central Cafe's fresh cookies

This is Finn, who came with his Mom and picked out a frog cage.
There is something for everyone!!!

My take on a Potting Shed!!

2010-04-08T13:15:00.000-07:00

I thought I would show more pics of the shop since this is where I have been all week getting ready for the April sale; next week. This is a new potting shed area. It is surrounded by old green windows and it is in the entrance of the shop and continues. I have to say that I am thrilled with the way the shop has turned out for this sale. We got in a lot of new and wonderful goodies that have been fun to work with.....Claire

New pics of theshop plus one

2010-04-07T08:01:00.000-07:00

We are busy in The Hog Shed getting ready for the sale. We finished a small
vignette that I think looks very nice. I love the cement angel. All in all this spot
has a nice soft look for Spring.

I have several french doors that I like to use through out the shop. This
sale I used them as a glass wall. It lets the light in and gives this little hall
and airy feel. The Hog Shed can get a bit dark so I try to use a lot of lights
and windows all over the shop.

As I am typing in my porch/office I noticed how bright and gorgeous the
forsythia is outside the window. I am always so suprised how early this
shrub blooms in Minnesota. Have a great day....Claire

2010-04-03T10:55:00.000-07:00

My April sale postcards are in the mail. This is a vintage postcard from France dated 1905. Isn't she cute!! Can you imagine taking a walk with two little pigs? This was sent to a Madame Amelie Carbonner in Provence.
This is the back of the postcard. I superimposed my information over the original greeting. The next sale is just around the corner and there is a lot to do.
Happy Happy Easter to all.....Claire

Setting up for the April sale....

2010-03-31T16:30:00.000-07:00

I was just in the shop and took a few pics of some of the vignettes that we have
gotten ready for the April 15th sale.

These little ducks will look even sweeter with bows!!

Love these trays!!

This is in a farmstyle area of the shop. I really like the metal on the walls

Isn't this pretty? Cyndi's pillows are beautiful.

Bistro tables are hard for me to resist. The candles are
Hillhouse's new "bloom". Wonderfully scented!!

This is in the new potting shed we did for the front of the shop

This is in the entry and I love the original green paint. This
would be great in a potting shed.

2010-03-30T17:20:00.000-07:00

I planted up this cute urn for Easter. I threw some wheat grass seed in around the pansies for fun. I have planted lots of wheat grass seed in pots for the shop but I haven't mixed it with flowers before.
It is a bit hard to see the pansies. I think I am going to have to "mow" the wheat grass. It looks a little wild!! If I do this again, I will use taller flowers like tulips or gerbera daisies.....Claire

Lulu, the Hog Shed rabbit!!

2010-03-25T15:32:00.000-07:00

This is my bunny,Lulu. She is a mini-lop and she is about 4 years old. Since it is almost Easter I think it is appropriate to introduce her. She gets lots of treats during the sale weekends from children. She is very sweet.

This is the front of Lulu's summer home. The "boss" went all out building this house for her. All I asked for was a new rabbit hutch, and I got a rabbit farmhouse. She has a large winter home that is very plain.

Here is the back of the farmhouse. It is really very cute. Meanwhile, Shannon and I have started taking the shop apart and redoing it for our April 15th sale.....Claire

What a great March sale

2010-03-23T06:30:00.000-07:00

I just had a wonderful March sale. It was exhausting getting back into the swing of things but so fun to see everyone and meet new friends after a long winter break. I wanted to take alot of pics of my terrific customers but in the craziness of the sale I kept forgetting. Here are a few pics of some customers that were having a good time at The Hog Shed.

Susie and her mom, Bonnie

My daughter Betsy and Ginny. They had so much fun they came out twice.
Katie and Ellen from neighboring, Winsted

Thank you to everyone who came to The Hog Sheds March sale. I have a new load of furniture to unload and get ready for the April sale.....Claire

The March sale is almost here

2010-03-17T20:29:00.000-07:00

Tomorrow is the big day!! The weather is supposed to be sunny and 50's. I have been running around with my new pink boots on for almost two weeks because it has been so wet and muddy on the farm. If I had some tulips, this is what I would do with them. More sale pics tomorrow.

More shop pics

2010-03-15T19:52:00.000-07:00

Lots of bunnies, birds, nests and eggs in this sale

This is a corn picker that has been repurposed into a basket

Some of Cyndi's burlap pillows and Bonnie Mohr's art

I love the saying on this architectural piece.

More pillows from Cyndi and my favorite bunnies. The wooden white letters are new for this sale. We are almost ready. I can't wait for this sale. It has been so long since I have seen my customers. It will be wonderful to "catch up" with everyone.....Claire

Putting on the finishing touches

2010-03-11T18:14:00.000-08:00

A new candle line from Aspen Bay. Love the containers and the scents are terrific
Here are some more pics of the shop. I am filling it up to the rafters with a ton of Spring stuff I have been collecting these past few months. I think I have filled every nook and cranny with lots of great treasures. I really like our new wooden letters. M is for Mimi or Mary, Maddie, Martha, or..........

I love white flowers

2010-03-09T06:01:00.000-08:00

I just love vases, urns, pots,bowls and baskets of white flowers. There is something showy, striking, elegant yet simple about a bunch of white flowers.....have a great day. I am off to plant wheat grass seed for the March sale......Claire

My Birthday!!

2010-03-08T07:23:00.000-08:00

Today is my birthday!!! I am not discussing age but as Oprah would say" I am embracing " this one. Well, I am trying!! We celebrated yesterday with a family affair!! The top pic is with my 3 fantastic grandchildren eagerly waiting for me to cut the cake. The only boy in the middle (Colton) shares the day with me. How could I be so lucky!! We are celebrating his today. (6 yrs.)My kids ordered this cake and it had the most beautiful icing flowers I have ever seen. Look at those jonquils and pussywillows!! Lemon filling, delicious. Now I am off to lunch with friends. Have a wonderful day, I am........Claire
* I am taking the day off. I'll be planting grass for the shop on Tues. Thinking Easter!!

Putting it all together

2010-03-04T07:51:00.000-08:00

Up in the rafters!!!!

Shannon (my right hand pal) and I have been busy all week putting the shop together for the sale. Just beyond the entrance we did a cream room with just a touch of brown. It's not completely done but this gives you an idea of what we have in mind. I love the pussy willows and I am thankful that Hillhouse Candles has welcomed back their French Tulip scented candle line. The scent is just fabulous and fills the entire shop. I love Spring and I am so excited that the shop will be open in just......14 days!!!!

March 2010 Postcard

2010-02-27T08:36:00.000-08:00

Here is the front & back of the postcard for our March sale. After a lot of ups & downs I think it's just what I had in mind. Every year I have a different look for the monthly postcards. So this year...drum roll please...I am going to use a vintage postcard with a pig or pigs on it. Not an easy task mind you. This terrific Easter card is German circa 1903. It was being sent to a young woman in England. I think vintage postcards are so fun and interesting. I hope you do too......Claire

It's a white week!!

2010-02-26T13:57:00.000-08:00

This has been a busy week, painting like mad to get vintage furniture ready for our March sale.
This wonderful cupboard above is very old and in great shape. I love it. Whitewashed tin will be put in the door openings.
Isn't this buffet great. They have been hard to find this year. Love the handles.
Not quite finished....the bunnies look cute!! Hmmmm..... let's find some cool knobs & pulls
This library table is getting a zinc top tomorrow. Now to find just the right chair....Claire

Travel Trailer Tuesdays

2010-02-23T05:36:00.000-08:00

I have been wanting to blog a bit more about our trailer projects but it never seems to quite fit in so I am dedicating Tuesdays to Trailers!!! Ken and I have gotten a bit nuts over vintage trailers, preferably 50's and 60's. We are currently working on a 1967 Fan Trailer. It has 2 areas of water damage
( pretty typical in old trailers). We have just opened the front to replace some wood that has been wet in the past. If you look inside you will see that the floor is in great shape and the wood on the wall is beautiful. Wonderful grain. More next week....Claire

Savoring Jeanne d' Arc Living

2010-02-21T08:49:00.000-08:00

I just can't get enough of this magazine. It is really special. The photography is absolutely awesome. It is one of those magazines that you wait for just the right time to read, with no interruptions, a wonderful cup of herbal tea and a comfy chair.

Flea Market Style is here!!!

2010-02-18T04:53:00.000-08:00

It's here!!! The long awaited Flea Market Style Mag is finally here!!! I will have them for sale
in the shop in March. It is really really great and will definitely get you thinking Spring. Lots of ideas and very inspiring.......Claire

Some of my favorite things....

2010-02-16T07:15:00.000-08:00

I really like cupboards!! Large or small, painted or not. I have just found a couple and I have a cool spoon-carved one in the shop now. They are getting harder to find but it is so fun when I do find a great one. I'll be working on my new ones this week. I can't wait to show them to you.........Claire

Great colour!!

I want this one!!

I bet this was a built in at one time.

Very Vintage!! Very Farmhouse Style!!

New Finds

2010-02-14T16:10:00.000-08:00

Just a few pieces I found this weekend. This week I will start painting for the March sale. I bet you won't recognize these pieces at the sale. I'll be giving some more sneak peeks at a few other great things I have found.....Claire

Bunnie Heaven!!

2010-02-10T07:08:00.000-08:00

This is The Hog Shed today. Lots and lots of snow. I feel like I am heating an igloo. I just keep it warm enough to be comfortable with layers on. I have heat but no insulation(another reason why I am closed until March)

The delivery man has been here just about everyday bringing boxes and boxes of what I have purchased at market. This is the fun part. I think I am in Hog Heaven!! So much to open and see where to put it in the shop
No, I am in Bunnie Heaven!! These bunnies are soooo cute. We had them last year and they sold out. I want them all!! They are so old-fashioned looking. I can't wait to get them in the shop.....Claire

A busy week!!!

2010-02-04T08:46:00.000-08:00

Shannon and I have been very busy this week working in The Hog Shed. We have been hauling furniture and boxes and boxes through the snow and cold. (there are many reasons why I don't open again until March; snow and cold are just 2 of them) Some of our Spring orders from market have arrived adding to the excitement of getting ready for our next sale. Wait until you see what we have ordered....so cool!!!
I did find a great double metal sink at a sale this week. Isn't it great?? I am going to put it in our new potting/greenhouse room. Below is the start of getting the room ready.....oh, I am having fun!!!
Back work.....Claire

Our first trailer "redo" of 2010

2010-02-01T19:13:00.000-08:00

This is our first vintage camping trailer remodel of the New Year. It is a 1967 Fan travel trailer built in Lagrange, Indiana. This trailer is 16 feet long. The wood inside is beautiful. Wonderful grain and light and dark wood.

Now we have it in the big shed. Wait until it is painted. So cute!! What colors will look good? The sink, oven, frig and grill on the furnace are turquoise. Really neat!! They are in wonderful condition.
Oooops!! We found a little wet wood. Not surprising for a 1967. The rest of it looks great. This looks worse than it really is.
I think I may have found some fabulous fabric for the curtains, couch/bed and benches at the table.
Still playing around with it tho. So many possibilties and I get to do the fun part!! I'll be giving you updates on our progress.....Claire

A Minnesota Moments Article

2010-01-25T17:14:00.000-08:00

More Press!! I feel so fortunate. Joannie Buettgen a Minnesota writer and columnist visited
The Hog Shed last summer. She took this picture and submitted an article to the Minnesota
Moments magazine about the shop. Thank you so much, Joannie.

Jeanne d' Arc is here!!!

2010-01-21T11:34:00.000-08:00

It's here!!!! Jeanne d' Arc has arrived!! My first copy this year and in English. There is something about this magazine that is so pleasing to the eye. I just want to grab a cup of tea, a comfy throw and curl up and savor every page. I am going to order extras of the next issues so I can have them available for sale at The Hog Shed.

It is farmstyle, a bit bohemian, a little shabby and much more.

Farmhouse Style

2010-01-20T06:17:00.000-08:00

I really like this kitchen. Great lights, great table and more...

At The Hog Shed we love farmhouse style and it looks like we are in great company!! Pottery Barn likes it too!!

Look at all the ironstone!!!!

This is Farmhouse Style in the spring. I love white tulips!!!

Little Things

2010-01-11T17:55:00.001-08:00

I found this picture in a old magazine. I love the words... I know well that happiness is in little things....John Ruskin. I have just started to knit my first sweater.....Claire

Keeping busy

2010-01-07T08:16:00.000-08:00

I started this blog to give everyone an idea what the day to day life might be like for a small occasional sale business owner. Right now I am on a break as the shop doesn't open again until March 18,2010. I am doing lots of organizing of my home (#1 on my todo list- basement) and making some decisions about the shop..... new business cards, theme for monthly postcards, a new blog look and what changes do I want to make in The Hog Shed. ( I like change, keeps me jumping) Since the weather is very Brrrrrrrr!!, I have lots to do inside.

Keep warm....Claire

Happy New Year!!!

2009-12-31T13:33:00.000-08:00

I found these vintage postcards the other day. They are so cool!!! Especially when they have a note on the back: Dear Cousin, We all send our best wishes to one and all for a very prosperous New Year, Lovingly, Anna

This one says, Dearest Mabel, wishing you Health, and Luck and Everything that goes with it on the New Year, From Anna Do you think Anna would believe that in "almost 2010" we would be reading a postcard that she sent in1913?

Wishing everyone a wonderful New Year !!!

A great pastime on a cold day!!

2009-12-29T10:27:00.000-08:00

I really enjoy magazines. I have tons that I have saved because they are just to great to throw away. I am sad about the loss of some magazines that no longer exist, but I am also excited about finding new ones. Today I am going through my stash of mags, looking for ideas & inspiration for The Hog Shed. I look for a color, keyword or picture that will get my mind rolling. I guess you could call this a great pastime on a cold Minnesota day.....Claire

A Country Pergola

2009-12-28T08:50:00.000-08:00

My husband(Ken) built this pergola to define the front entry of our home and provide us with some protection from the elements all year round. Our house is over 120 years old. The pergola is covered in wisteria. Do you see the little birds eating the seeds on the top left. I just love the pergola.....Claire

Vintage Plastic Holiday Figurines

2009-12-21T06:50:00.000-08:00

I haven't been blogging quite as often because I have been busy getting my home ready for Christmas Eve when everyone comes for the celebration. My husband(Ken) did his thing yesterday. He really enjoys his vintage plastic figurines. This year a few came indoors and the bigger ones came closer to the house than they have ever been. A bit bright last night but fun. He says its all for the grandchildren but I suspect........Claire

I found "The Find" !!!

2009-12-16T06:36:00.000-08:00

I don't know where I heard about this book, but when I saw it for 1/2 price I snatched it up. It's all about vintage and I love vintage. A nice coffee table book. A great book for ideas and inspiration.....Claire

Jeanne d'Arc Living in English

2009-12-14T05:43:00.000-08:00

Oh, how I love this magazine. I found a Dec, 2009 issue of the Jeanne D'Arc Living Magazine in English!!! I got the last issue at Round Barn Potting Co. in Andover. They kindly mailed it to me. Thank you!!! The photography is just beautiful and the ideas are very simple. Nice to the eye!!! When good mags are hard to find, this is a treat!! Speaking of mags, I can't wait for the new Flea Market Style Magazine to come out this spring. I'll have it in the shop for sale......Claire

Thank you!!! Thank you!!!

2009-12-10T15:31:00.000-08:00

I want to say thank you to everyone who came out to The Hog Shed this Holiday season. I really appreciate your support and all of the great words of encouragement about the shop. I can't thank you enough!!! Have a wonderful Holiday and warm wishes for a terrific New Year...Claire
****Brianna Alberts made this card and others for the shop. Very plain and simple but classy and to the point. I hope she does more for Spring.

I am on vacation!!!

2009-12-09T07:33:00.000-08:00

I just finished the last sale of the year!!! I would love to say I'm on vacation and going south, especially in light of our very wintery blustery weather here in Minnesota. The Hog Shed does not open again until March 18, 2010. But alas, I have a very long to do list. Sooooo, I am not sure what I will blog? Should I still keep on blogging while the shop is closed? Are you even interested in......my shopping for Spring sales, new logo and business cards, themes for the sales, garden planning, 4 vintage camping trailers to refurbish, etc.??? Besides all that, I have my very neglected home to organize, clean and some rooms are in desperate need of painting and decorating. Wow, lots to do!!! No vacation for me but I think I would still like to keep in touch and maybe it will help me to stay directed. Maybe I could use this blog as a daily login for my long to do list. (and I am bound and determined to get my knitting out and finish some all ready started projects). I promise my blog will never be this long again!!! Have a wonderful day and I am on vacation.....Claire

...more customer pics

2009-12-07T17:18:00.000-08:00

The ladies in the above picture had fun shopping at The Hog Shed. I just love the little red "basket on wheels". Just think of how fun it will be with Christmas greens or wrapped packages in it. So many options.
Here is little Grace with her very cute hat and coat. Love her socks and bag. Grace comes with her Mom to every sale.....Claire

Thank you!!!!

2009-12-04T17:16:00.000-08:00

I love my business because I have so many great friends and customers. Since this is my last sale for a few months so I am entitled to go on about my customers a bit. Deb and Curt stopped by today. Wonderful long time friends and Deb has helped me every Thursday since I opened. Elizabeth is a wonderful person and I have really gotten to know her since I opened The Hog Shed. She just picked out a pretty scarf to go with her new coat. Love the scarf!!!
Marlene and Vicki are from Minnetonka(I think) and are new customers. They had wonderful things to say about the store and I think they had alot of fun shopping and sipping hot cocoa. Thank you everyone for your support this year.

Great Hog Shed Customers

2009-12-03T16:29:00.000-08:00

This is Kathy and Anne(left and right). They are great customers who come almost every opening day, first thing in the morning. Center is Julie, who is Kathys' sister-in-law from Australia. To me great customers are those that are fun to talk too, have a great sense of humor and really enjoy coming to The Hog Shed. These gals have it all and more. Thanks for being "great Hog Shed customers". So nice to meet you Julie!!!

The Last Sale of the Year

2009-12-02T05:53:00.000-08:00

It is hard to believe that the last sale of the year starts tomorrow. Shannon and I were in the shop yesterday to change things up abit. The shop looks really great and we ended up redoing most rooms. It is full and very festive. It is hard not to be in the spirit of the season. I can't wait to decorate my house.....next week!!!!

Harvest Tables

2009-11-30T07:22:00.001-08:00

Something new at The Hog Shed are the wonderfully made harvest tables that we have both in the shop and the cottage. A local craftsman, Todd Konen expertly makes the tables and benches out of barn wood. He makes them to any length and color. Todd has been very busy. He also makes shelves, cubbies and benches in any size and color......Claire

Shop Pics

2009-11-28T16:07:00.000-08:00

Here are some pics of the shop. I really like how it looks this year. I will be open one more weekend - December 3-6. Then I will be closed till next year(March or April, I think). I really do need a bit of a break. I haven't set the dates yet but I will post them when I figure it out........Claire
By the way, the Hot Cocoa Bar has been a huge success again this year!!!!

New friends!!!

2009-11-28T05:01:00.000-08:00

My youngest daughter,Betsy(on the right) brought friends to the Hog Shed. Ginny Bisanz(next to Betsy), three of her daughters plus a friend are first timers at the Hog Shed. What a lovely family!!! It was a delight to meet them......Claire

Vintage Christmas Cards

2009-11-22T16:00:00.001-08:00

I can't say enough about vintage Christmas cards. I am so thankful that so many people choose to save them. My husbands Aunt Arlene kept every card she ever got in albums(many many albums) I am so glad that she did this as I just love to look at them and use them in displays in the shop. I've put them in trees, hung them all around windows, and I have framed them. I have several unique vintage Christmas postcards that I have framed in The Hog Shed now. I just love old stuff.....Claire

Do you know Jane?

2009-11-20T17:21:00.000-08:00

This is Jane Hall of Mustard Moon in Carver and here are a few pics of her very cool shop. Jane is a master of "putting it all together". I helped her at her shop today for her Nov. occasional sale. She also helps me at mine. We had alot of fun.....Claire

Jeanne d'Arc Living

2009-11-18T17:20:00.000-08:00

I have heard of this magazine but I have never seen it until today at the Round Barn Potting Co. It is so cool!!! It is from Denmark and I can't read a word but the pictures are fabulous. I just love, love, love it. I can't wait to see the next issue of Jeanne d'Arc.

The Hog Shed has the best customers!!

2009-11-16T05:52:00.000-08:00

The reason I have the Hog Shed is because of all the great women that come every month to shop or just say "Hi". This weekend we had so many wonderful customers stop in....3 sisters, a mom plus one (that's Deb Bebo trying to hide in the back) and this little cutey pie,Scarlet with her wonderful pink sunglasses that she would not take off. Scarlet loved our hot cocoa bar!!!
We just had our best sales weekend since the shop opened. A huge thank you to all of my fabulous customers and friends for all of your support....Claire

Friends are great!!

2009-11-14T05:14:00.001-08:00

It is so great when fellow Occasional Sale "shop keepers" stop by for a visit. Jane from Mustard Moon and Sarah from Seasons in Carver are talented,fun and a bit "crazy" women. Their shops are open next week. Carver and Chaska have several shops that will be open. I'll be at Mustard Moon on Friday helping Jane. Stop by....Claire

Our little cottage

2009-11-13T18:33:00.000-08:00

Today I had a wonderful conversation with this customer,Gayle who recognised my little cottage as one of the cabins at a camp she had attended as a child. This cottage was at Camp Manikiki and I really enjoyed hearing her stories about the camp and her many summers there. We had this cabin moved onto our property about three years ago and I fill it with great stuff every month for the sales. It is just a treasure.....Claire

First Day of Holiday Sale

2009-11-12T17:53:00.000-08:00

Shannon put this little vignette together in front of the shop. I love all the fresh greenery. The weather is very mild and it doesn't seem like November in Minnesota. We had a wonderful sale today; very busy just the way I like it.

Cyndi is soooo talented!!!

2009-11-10T18:44:00.000-08:00

Cyndi Fouquette of Cyndi's Recreations dropped off a few things she sewed for our sale. I just love these pillows. I think the Welcome Christmas socks would look great on a front door for the Holidays.....Claire

So Cute

2009-11-06T16:02:00.000-08:00

Except for a few "tuck ins" I have the trees in the shop and cottage done. These little birds are so sweet. They are tiny and wool felted. I think I should have ordered more.....I want some for myself....Claire

Mercury Glass Ornaments

2009-11-05T07:37:00.000-08:00

Shannon(my right hand gal) and I have been decorating The Hog Shed all week. 12 trees, so far. We just love these mercury glass ornaments. Silvery and tarnished....so cool!!!

What do you collect?

2009-11-01T09:59:00.000-08:00

What a simple festive table decoration!!! I collect vintage metal biscuit tins or picnic baskets just like the one pictured. I have alot and I use them all the time. (storage, decor etc.) It is fun to use the things you collect. I have several in the shop that I am going to decorate like this for the Nov. sale.....Claire

Holiday Postcard is ready!!

2009-10-30T17:53:00.000-07:00

Our Holiday postcard was mailed today. It is a very simple, right to the point kind of a card. Isn't the little pig on the back cute?? Thank you, Sharron. I am busy, busy busy getting the shop ready for out Nov sales. I'll have to give you all a sneak preview of some of the things I ordered. I getting excited for this one.....Claire

Presents???

2009-10-28T15:46:00.000-07:00

It feels a little like Christmas with all the boxes we are opening, and all the ohhhhs and ahhhhs that are coming from us. We feel great about the wonderful gifts and decorations that we have picked out. We're sure that you are going to love them too. The shop is a mess but we're getting excited......Claire