If You Like Florence & Canon City: WATCH THIS

If you like Florence (the antiques capital of Colorado) and Canon City, then you might want to watch this: http://movingpostcard.com/canon-city-florence/

The moving postcard is exactly what it sounds like--and is edited by Luci Westphal, a German New Yorker currently exploring Colorado and the Wild West.

                                        Picture From Luci Westphal's website of Canon City

The moving postcards show Fremont County in a beautiful light. Hats off to Luci for visiting the "Wild West" and producing this visual treat.

Florence, CO: Florence Brewing Company

It was nice to see the Colorado Springs Independent do a story about one of their neighbors to the south this week when they highlighted the Florence Brewing Company in Side Dish by Matthew Schniper. Did I ever have any association with the Independent? I'll never tell--but hats off to the weekly newspaper in Colorado Springs for covering a great slice of Florence industry and creativity.

You can read the story at: http://www.csindy.com/coloradosprings/florence-brewing-company-opening-soon-howard-to-gogc/Content?oid=3688917.

Regular readers of this blog know that I extol all things southern Colorado--and especially Florence, so I am constantly keeping tabs on what is going on in Florence--and what coverage this fair burg receives.

I'm seeing a theme here. Even the Independent story captures it. The owner of Florence Brewing Company, Hans Prahl, according to the story was, "attracted to the tiny town of around 4,000..."

Yes, once you've been to Florence, it's hard not to be attracted. Is it the historical buildings? Perhaps. Is it the fact that we are in the 'banana belt' of Colorado and when it's snowing like a son of gun 30 miles away and we are sunny and mild with a few lackadaisical flakes? Perhaps. Is it our ridiculously low (compared to major metropolitan areas) real estate prices and property taxes? Perhaps.

But it's something more. Just the other day I was at an appointment with a professional who has a business in Florence, and he and his assistant told me in casual conversation that they have heard several Canon City(where they both live) business owners and  officials say, "We should do things like Florence."

There's just an atmosphere here. I can't totally explain it in words. But it's evident in all the little blog posts I do about local people and businesses. It's just the way Florence does things. And even though I've never met, Hans Prahl of the Florence Brewing Company--I understand why he was "attracted to the tiny town of around 4,000..."

But as in every "true story," the story is best told by the person living it. You can read more about Florence and the Florence Brewing Company at: http://www.florencebrewing.com/story

All I can say, is there will be a lot of happy people on May 14 (targeted date for the brewery's opening) in Florence when all of us will be able to sample this top-drawer craft beer.

Steampunk Window Displays: Spirit Riders

As you all know, I've been roaming around Florence-the antiques capital of Colorado to view some of the steampunk window displays in evidence as the town gears up for its 2nd annual Escape In Time To Steampunk In Wine Festival, April 9 and 10.

Of course, we'd expect Spirit Rider, at 111 W. Main, to have a tantalizing steampunk window display, because store co-owner, Barb Bierley, is the driving force and organizer of the steampunk festival.

Barb has done a fantastic job of of turning Florence's steampunk festival into a tour de force.

She's organized and inspired the town to embrace the steampunk identity. And it's an identity that Florence had all along--but just needed a festival to celebrate what it already had for many years.

If you've read previous blog posts, you know that Florence, with its many antiques shops and art galleries was already embracing the Victoriana, steampunk and industrials arts for years.

It took someone like Barb to organize the festival into an event that perfectly showcases what Florence had for years-a multitude of shops, artists and resources that embodies the spirit of steampunk.

And this festival is a double-win. No, it's more like a quadruple or more win. The festival not only celebrates the spirit of steampunk, but the small-town community feel of Florence and all the creativity that has always been here. It also celebrates a town treasure: The historic 1923 opera house, the Rialto. The event is a fundraiser to restore the town jewel that is the Rialto. And that's something we can all get behind.

See you there--on April 9 and 10!

STEAMPUNK-A-LICIOUS: Get your steampunk fix here

There have been a lot of steampunk posts on this blog. And it's no wonder, since Florence had a great inaugural steampunk festival last April and is gearing up for the 2nd annual Escape In Time To Steampunk And Wine Festival, April 9 and 10, 2016.

I decided to round up  the steampunk posts and put all the links in this one blog post, so you could get your steampunk fix and also see a bit of the evolution of steampunk in the fair burg of Florence. Florence is the official antiques capital of Colorado. And I've sassily dubbed it the unofficial steampunk capital of Colorado. Why? Because I can. Aw shucks, just read all or some of the huge amount of steampunk posts and you can come to your own steampunky conclusions. Links are below this year's steampunk festival poster.

Steampunk posts from this year below. I'll round up the numerous posts of what Florence was up to last year for the steampunk festival in another blog post.

#1 http://truestoryclub.blogspot.com/2016/03/florence-colorado-tour-of-legends-and.html

#2 http://truestoryclub.blogspot.com/2016/03/steampunk-window-display-legends-lace.html

#3  http://truestoryclub.blogspot.com/2016/03/what-i-found-in-florence-antiques_18.html

#4 http://truestoryclub.blogspot.com/2016/03/bloomn-gals-in-vineland-gear-up-for.html

#5 http://truestoryclub.blogspot.com/2016/03/steampunk-festival-window-florence.html

#6 http://truestoryclub.blogspot.com/2016/02/steampunk-wine-festival-florence-co.html

#7 http://truestoryclub.blogspot.com/2016/02/florence-unofficial-steampunk-capital.html

#8 http://truestoryclub.blogspot.com/2016/02/got-musical-talent-got-steampunk-then.html

FLORENCE, COLORADO: Tour of Legends and Lace Antiques

I was sneaking around Florence--the antiques capital of Colorado--taking pictures of the steampunk window displays. Legends and Lace Antiques, 131 W. Main St., has one of the best window displays in town. And while I was there, I thought, why not go on a virtual tour of Legends and Lace?

I've been saying for over a year (when Florence had its first steampunk and wine festival) that Florence should be the unofficial steampunk capital of Colorado. Not just because of the newish steampunk festival--but because Florence has so many shops that have carried steampunk, Victorian and industrial items, for years and years.

One of the best examples in town is Legends and Lace.

If you love Victoriana like I do--prepare yourself.

Yum! Legends and Lace also provides handmade, handsewn custom lampshades like the one above. I should know. I have a custom Legends and Lace lampshade in my over-the-top gypsy, Victorian decor at my own house.

Double yum! Downton Abbey--eat your heart out.

If you love vintage and vintage-style hats--the Legends and Lace is for you.

Meow! Yes, the whole shop is the cat's meow.

These boots are made for walking.

Hats off!

OK, the peach hat with the feathers would be perfect...

Ah ha! Plenty of totally intriguing steampunk goodies at Legends and Lace.

Steampunk ornaments. Have yourself a merry little Steampunk...

Steampunk all the way and EVERY day...In Florence--the antiques capital of Colorado AND the unofficial steampunk capital of Colorado.

Steampunk Window Display: Legends & Lace In Florence,COLORADO

Florence, the antiques capital of Colorado is getting ready for its 2nd annual Escape In Time To Steampunk And Wine festival, April 9 and 10. So, I'm peering in all the town's shop windows and giving everyone a virtual tour of the window displays.

Legends And Lace Antiques, 131 W. Main St., ALWAYS does its window displays up right all year round, but totally knocks it out of the park for steampunk.

                                               STEAMPUNK GIRL IN FLORENCE,CO

Steampunk girl is new  (from last year) in the Legends And Lace window. She's just so dang cute I want to squeeze her pudgy cheeks and goggles off her adorable face.

                                                  COLONEL STEAMPUNK IN FLORENCE,CO

I'm just making this up. I have no idea if this guy's name is Colonel Steampunk. But, hey, it's my blog and I can do whatever I want. I personally think the Colonel is a good spy and commands covert missions and he's Steampunk Girl's favorite uncle.

                                                 STEAMPUNK BOMBSHELL IN FLORENCE,CO

I was going to make this bombshell, Steampunk Girl's mother or aunt. But I think I'll make her an undercover spy that attempts to seduce Colonel Steampunk from his righteous mission.

See how cool the steampunk window is at Legends And Lace? Come on--get up to Florence and see if for yourself--and you can have the fun of making up your own (better than mine) stories about the characters in the window.

And don't forget to come to the steampunk festival. There are more activities, contests and goings-ons than you can shake a pair of goggles at.

What I Found In Florence--The Antiques Capital Of Colorado

Well, here's what I found recently roaming around Florence--the antiques capital of Colorado.

I love this old wooden restaurant sign. We all need a bit more quality and good cheer also! Ah, what I wouldn't give to be able to buy a cheese sandwich for two bits. DISCOVERED AT: The Iron Gate Antique Mall, 109 W. Main St.

A magic lantern. This is so cool and well, steampunk. I've been reminding blog readers for over a year that Florence is the unofficial steampunk capital of Colorado, because the shops have so many steampunk, Victorian and industrial items, 365 days a year. DISCOVERED AT: Iron Gate.

 And do NOT forget, Florence's steampunk festival is coming up April 9 and 10.

Big wheels keep on turning...There is always a fantabulous selections of good junk outside Florence Antiques, located at 103 Main St. The selection changes daily and if you slow down enough as you are driving by, you can usually find something eye-poppingly strange and delicious. The inside of the shop is also packed with antique finds, jewelry and more.

Ah, spring has sprung at The Iron Gate Antique Mall. I love this cast iron bench and table and bright yellow accessories.

Yes, Florence has many authors and writers! One of the best known is Barry Brierley. He's the author of many historical fiction novels, as well as a talented painter. He and his wife, Barb, own Spirit Riders, where Barry's books and artwork are sold--as well as western decor, clothing, boots, antiques--and vintage and steampunk clothing and lots more. Located at, 111 W. Main St. And check out the author's Facebook page at: https://www.facebook.com/barry.brierley.3

I like this bookcase made out of reclaimed wood, discovered at The Iron Gate Antique Mall.

Eating My Way Across Colorado: Aspen Leaf Bakery & Cafe

You want some of the best baked goods and fresh salads, sandwiches and soups that southern Colorado has to offer? Look no further than the Aspen Leaf Bakery & Cafe, located at 113 W. Main St. in Florence--the antiques capital of Colorado.

Usually I eat my way across Colorado alone, but this time the girls and I went to see what was happening at one of the most popular spots in Florence.

The Aspen Leaf is so popular that people drive from out of town to feast.

Two people in our party had the turkey panini, which I've had before also. Imagine a stunning artichoke spread, provolone, sliced red onions, alfalfa sprouts and marinated tomatoes complimenting all that turkey on some flat bread. No, just don't imagine it. Get to the Aspen Leaf and have one. The garden salads at the Aspen are always clean, fresh and crisp.

Our salads were chock full of tender baby spinach, other greens and plump, bright tomatoes.

I had the egg salad accented with celery and a special seasoning on a croissant. Beyond divine.

I could blather on about the veggie mushroom melt, the organic, vegan burger, the fresh soups and tortilla and lettuce wraps. Yes, I could.

But let's be honest. We all have these healthy offerings and then want to get to the baked goods.

The Aspen Leaf even has a good selection of gluten-free offerings. They also have cookies, macaroons, scones, danish, brownies, turn overs, bear claws, cinnamon rolls, muffins, bundt cake, coffee cake, cheese pockets with various fruit fillings, tiramisu with mocha sauce, strudel, banana bread, bread pudding with vanilla sauce, pies and cheesecakes.

If that wasn't enough--the Aspen Leaf semi-recently added soft serve ice cream to the list of temptations.

Breakfast, served until 11 a.m. is just $4.95 at the Aspen Leaf and includes quiches, biscuits and gravy and breakfast burritos.

As if all the food and beverages at the Aspen Leaf weren't enough to keep one lingering in delight--then the ambience would be.

The Aspen Leaf's walls featured local artists' works.

This bakery and cafe is located in a historical building (complete with skylight) as are most of Florence's businesses.

Local handmade pottery for sale.

And local food products.

We loved this culinary collage.

Vintage aprons and kitchen tools.

More local art.

And if you really want to vicariously set your taste buds aflame, make sure and visit the Aspen Leaf's Facebook page: https://www.facebook.com/Aspen-Leaf-Bakery-and-Cafe-117536445005789/?fref=ts

What I Found In Florence--The Antiques Capital Of Colorado

Here's a weekly roundup of fun and funky and unique items I found in some of the many shops in Florence--the antiques capital of Colorado.

Yes, it's a butter churn. But I think of it as a vintage exercise machine. Notice that the churn has a foot pedal AND a handle for churning--for a total aerobic workout. DISCOVERED AT: Iron Gate Antique Mall, 109 W. Main St.

Handcrafted right in Florence--delicious organic vanilla. Here's a secret about Florence: There are a lot of home based artisans making small batches of edibles, soaps, crafts and other items, one batch at a time--the old fashioned way. DISCOVERED AT: Wood Grain On Main, 114 W. Main St.

Delicious honey. As it reads on the label: As straight from the hive as you can get.

It's unfiltered, raw and unpasteurized. I purchased some and can attest to the quality and taste. Florence resident, Shellie Busetti is responsible for the honey and the vanilla. DISCOVERED AT: Wood Grain On Main, 114 W. Main St.

Shellie is also a photographer, along with her husband, Bill. She recently showed the new note cards she is producing from her original photos--as well as Colorado postcards. Yes, scenes from Florence, are in the works! The Busettis' photos and artwork are also available matted and framed. They have a website at : http://www.busettiphoto.com/  DISCOVERED AT: Iron Gate Antique Mall, 109 W. Main St.

Handcrafted letters made painstakingly from beer bottle tops, by a local artisan. Each letter is sold individually, so one can just get one's initial or make an entire sign or statement. DISCOVERED AT: Wood Grain On Main, 114 W. Main St.

If you are missing an iron gate for your estate--no worries! You'll find it in Florence. And it's no accident or IRONy this treasure was discovered at The Iron Gate Antique Mall, 109 W. Main St., which always pays homage to its namesake with a good selection of vintage gates and fencing.

Beautiful Hoosier cabinet, spotted at the Iron Gate,which also carries separate Hoosier jars and glass.

Handcrafted, handpainted wood signs--made by a local artisan. DISCOVERED AT: Wood Grain On Main.

Scruffy, the antique dog. Not for sale--but he wanted to get on the blog. DISCOVERED: At my house.

FLORENCE,CO: Tour of BARN & BARREL--Total COOLNESS!

You all know I like to roam the streets of Florence--the antiques capital of Colorado and just see what's going on. Recently I stepped into Barn & Barrel, located at 115 W. Main St. And I also ascended into a world of total coolness.

For those familiar with Florence, the location of Barn & Barrel formerly housed the antiques and art shop, Touch of Grace--also a popular destination for those looking for top-drawer antiques, art, jewelry and architectural salvage. The owners of Touch of Grace relocated out of state--and Dan Vinton and his wife Tracy, a few months ago moved Barn & Barrel from a smaller location a few doors down to the spacious showrooms at 115 W. Main.

Barn & Barrel's slogan is: Farm Fresh To Barrel Aged. The shop specializes in antiques, art and architectural salvage.

                                                  BARN & BARREL IN FLORENCE,CO

I guarantee if you check out Barn & Barrel's Facebook page at: https://www.facebook.com/barnandbarrelflorenceco/?fref=ts
you'll be pleased and probably hop in the car to check out one of southern Colorado's most unique home decor stores.

Like most shops in Florence, thing change almost daily. But here's what was going on at Barn & Barrel last week. Join me for a fun tour!

Yes, they have a great selection of primitive wall cupboards with that delicious, chippy paint.

And free-standing primitive cupboards loaded with vintage smalls.

OK, you had me at chippy paint. But there's way more to be discovered at Barn & Barrel.

Salvage galore!

A wonderful farm (or harvest) table constructed of 100-year-old barn wood. And the price is a fraction of what it would generally be outside of Florence--the antiques capital of Colorado.

Another view of the delicious barnwood table.

Owner Dan Vinton said this area started as simply a quiet retreat area for customers and browsers to sit back in comfort and relax and rest. He said they put a comfy couch there for visitors--that wasn't supposed to be for sale--and it sold. They got another comfy couch and it sold. And then they finally put in this stylish, distressed leather couch--which is now for sale. But no worries--Barn & Barrel will always have a good selection of stylish furniture and a comfy place for visitors to unwind.

Here's how it all started. Dan said his wife Tracy, years ago, began offering a line of quality handmade soaps and body products--and they used some antiques as "props" in their display. The antiques and vintage items began selling--and the rest is history. But the Barn & Barrel still has a line of soaps and body products.

A display of handbags, scarves and other fashion accessories

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The Barn & Barrel also proudly sells local artisan work--like this handmade wooden bowl.

You never know what you will find at Barn & Barrel--and that's half the fun of browsing in this fantastic shop--and all of Florence for that matter!

A vintage car fender as wall art? You bet!

Thanks for joining us on a tour of one of Florence's coolest shops.

And make sure and snap some pictures of what YOU find in Florence--and feel free to send your pictures to this blog for possible publication.