Florence, Colorado: Steampunk Shotgun Weddings

Just the other day I was sitting in the fair burg of Florence (antiques capital of Colorado and a most quirky, zippy and fun place) and thinking: Wouldn't it be nice if I could attend a shotgun wedding?

Actually I was not thinking that. I never thought I'd even type those words. But now it is possible.

As most regular blog readers know, I've dubbed Florence, the unofficial steampunk capital of Colorado. Why? Because I can. It's my blog and I can write anything I want.

Truly though, this town has one of the most fantastic and varied steampunk festivals anywhere.

Carriage rides, costume contests, games for the kids, arts, crafts, steampunkalicious cuisine and more.

BUT this year, there are new additions. Shotgun weddings. And marriage vow renewals--steampunk style of course.

This year the Escape In Time To Steampunk And Wine Festival is April 22 and 23.

It's never too early to start planning for that shotgun wedding or marriage vow renewal.

I wonder if there will be any Elvis impersonators, steampunk style, officiating. I can only hope...

Florence, Colorado: All The Single (And Married) Ladies Love Robert Redford

In a previous blog post, I mentioned that interest in Jane Fonda seemed a bit higher in Florence--the antiques capital of Colorado--than for Robert Redford.

Well, that changed today.

Filming for the Jane Fonda and Robert Redford movie, Our Souls At Night, was happening at Fremont Lanes today. I've never been inside the bowling alley, but I hear it's one of only a few six-lane historic venues left.

I happened to have a bird's eye view of the bowling alley most of the day. And then I spotted Robert Redford once. Then twice. I lost count at about six times.

Last week folks came in the antiques mall, where I work, and asked if I had seen Jane. No.

Ah, but today I was asked if I had seen Robert. Yes. From afar.

And the "lady" asking the question was nine years old. She was very wistful in asking, hinting and almost begging if she could see Robert. I told her I had no status, but perhaps if she asked one of the crew they might tell her when and how she could see him.

Then the truth came out. I asked,"Who is it who REALLY wants to see Robert?"

It was the girl's mother. Darn little charmer. She almost had me convinced.

The mother and her winsome daughter came back later and said the crew said there would be no contact or autographs until Oct. 11 when there would be a meet and greet. I wasn't able to find out what time or where, but I will update if and when I find out.

Another local antiques dealer and store worker was trolling the streets and got a picture of Robert, right before a car went by and almost ruined our pictures.

One time when Robert walked out of Fremont Lanes, a small group of middle-aged ladies screamed across the street,"Oh, Robert! Come over here!"

But mostly all the ladies, young and older, were quite dignified.

A few came in the antiques mall and wondered if Robert Redford was still handsome.

I can report that he is. I got just one distant picture, where you cannot tell. But a neighboring shop owner got a close-up picture of him that proves it. But that photo is stuck on my phone. I am not very adept with technical things, but will attempt to post it.

But here's my distant picture of the actor and storyteller whose popularity is at quite the fever pitch in Florence.

He's wearing a red plaid shirt and entering the bowling alley.

Another fan came by and said she wanted Robert to sign a horse book that she had of his.

And yes, I finally caught two glimpses of Jane Fonda around the bowling alley. She seemed very animated and engaged and it was a pleasure to even see these two professionals from afar working hard all day long while I attempted to keep their enthused fans happy.

Is Florence One Of The Most Interesting Towns In Colorado?

Yes!

Florence, the antiques capital of Colorado has been so interesting lately that I've had nary an extra second to post anything.

That will change soon. And I'll have some insights into many of the exciting things going on in our small burg.

Stay tuned...

Florence, CO: Sandy Dale & The Gnarlies Smackdown Valve Cover Race

It's a grudge match! Now, this blog doesn't go around spreading gossip--so you'd better make sure and listen the first time. I have it on good authority that the usually peaceful artistic genius, Sandy Dale and The Gnarlies (also peaceful and loving) are still experiencing the slight agony of defeat of last year's Florence Car Show in the valve cover races.

Sandy said her valve cover car didn't even place--but she had a good time. This year she and The Gnarlies are planning on a good time again--but are stepping up their game to be victorious in the race.

When she slammed, I mean gently placed on the counter of ye olde antique mall-- a deluxe repurposed lunchbox (translated: lean, mean speed carrying case for The Gnarlies and their smoking-hot valve cover car) I knew she meant business.

Yeah! See it right there. on the carrying case: GNARLIES, NEED FOR SPEED.

Florence artisan Sandy Dale picked her three fastest Gnarlies to compete in the May 22 valve cover race.

It's going to be an epic smackdown of WWE proportions. Or maybe not. But I like my version of events better.

You can tell I'm a Gnarlies fan. I could have just taken one picture. But the guys were speeding around the counter so fast, I had to snap multiple pictures so I could capture the speed. Not really. But that's the kind of smack they talk in grudge matches and such.

Oh, yeah! Us Gnarlies have been practicing on roller coasters and drinking raw eggs to train for this epic race.

Oh, excuse me? You don't know what Gnarlies are? Well, you can read a bit about them in this previous blog post: http://truestoryclub.blogspot.com/2015/03/the-magical-world-of-artist-sandy-dale.html

And you can read about the Florence Car Show and find out about the epic valve cover races in a previous blog post: http://truestoryclub.blogspot.com/2016/02/15th-annual-florence-merchants-car-show.html

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.

What Are You Doing In Florence, The Antiques Capital of Colorado? TINY TOWN, RAILROAD

We are always curious to know what people are doing in Florence, the antiques capital of Colorado. And most importantly, we are interested in what significance the treasures they find here have.

Recently we met Wayne Russert, who resides on a ranch outside of Castle Rock, in Florence.

                                                   WAYNE RUSSERT in FLORENCE,CO

At first I wasn't sure what had captured Wayne's attention. But when he began inspecting his find, the sound of a railroad crossing bell rang through The Iron Gate Antique Mall.

And this beauty is going to the world famous Tiny Town & Railroad in Morrison, outside of Denver.

For those not acquainted with the joys of Tiny Town, the attraction features a 1/6-scale Western town and a steam-powered locomotive vistors can ride.

Wayne plans on using this Florence find--a railroad signal--on the redesign of Tiny Town's railroad crossing.

The history of Tiny Town is interesting (as most places are in Colorado) and more information on this family-friendly attraction is available at: http://tinytownrailroad.com/

Wayne has an interesting history too. He's a retired aeronautical engineer who also happened to work at a railroad. He is also involved at the Pikes Peak Historical Street Railway Foundation. More information on that organization is at: http://www.visitcos.com/venue/colorado-springs-attractions/Pikes-Peak-Historical-Street-Railway-Foundation

Even though he is retired, the engineer says he is busier than ever. And it appears most of what he is involved with involves enjoying and preserving history.

So, like so many others--Wayne found himself in Florence, where history comes alive in every shop.

What Are You Doing In Florence, The Antiques Capital of Colorado? OLIVER LOTT

 I am curious to know what people are doing in Florence, the antiques capital of Colorado. Florence is a burg of about 3,900. So I am always interested how people found the town, what they are doing when they get here--and most importantly, the significance of the treasures they find here.

Today we found out what Oliver Lott was doing in Florence. Oliver is from Bath, United Kingdom.

Being the observant person I am, I noticed he had a big camera, so I correctly guessed he is a photographer. He currently lives in New York City and attends the School of Visual Arts there.

Oliver is graduating soon and needed some more photos for a school project. He was in Cripple Creek taking photos and absorbing the local history, gold mining facts and scenery--when someone suggested he take the semi-short drive to Florence to view all the antiques.

The first place Oliver stopped was The Iron Gate Antiques Mall, 109 W. Main St. where he was able to find postcards and a vintage photo that caught his attention due to his love of American history. And of course, a camera.

                                                  OLIVER LOTT IN FLORENCE, CO

It's amazing and wonderful to me that so many people with so many different talents and interests can usually always find something to feed their souls in Florence.

Oliver is a gifted photographer and has quite a presence on the internet. Just one place , his work can be viewed is: oliverlott.tumblr.com

Colorado Life Magazine

True Story Club blog is about many things--but its main focus is celebrating a sense of community, adventure and wonder of all the things tucked away in Colorado, especially small-town southern Colorado.

Probably no magazine embodies that spirit of digging into what makes Coloradans tick, better than Colorado Life magazine.

I've been a fan (and subscriber) of Colorado Life, almost since its inception. One of the most echoed themes in the magazine's Letters To The Editor section is that even people who have lived in Colorado most or all of their lives, still learn so many new places to explore, after reading the magazine.

I wholeheartedly agree. I've lived in Colorado, going on three decades--and every time I pick up Colorado Life, I learn something new about the state I love. Even about places I thought I knew most all there was to know.

This magazine has world-class photography and writing. But it goes behind the scenes and often delves into why communities tick--through the present and history.

Check out the Colorado Life website: http://www.coloradolifemagazine.com/

I encourage all who live this state to subscribe. And no, I don't make a penny off recommending this fine publication, or have any connection to Colorado Life, other than being an admiring reader. I just know a good thing when I see it, and love to share all that is good in our state.

Politically Incorrect Antiques: Who Says Antiques Can't Be Funny & Fun?

Who says antiques can't be fun and funny? You won't hear that from me.

I am NOT an antiques expert--but I like to play one on the internet. Actually I spent about 15 years selling antiques, collectibles and plain junk on the internet, so I never got to meet any of my customers in person.

So, when we moved to Florence--the antiques capital of Colorado, I began working in some of the antiques stores. And antiques dealers are a humorous lot--which I never realized.

We sit around laughing and joking about our antiques, other people's antiques and the paradox that is attempting to know what people want to buy. The day one decides that a pile of stuff that has been sitting on one's booth is sheer junk, a mistake, a lapse in judgement and needs to be carted off--is usually the day someone comes in and falls in love with it and buys it all.

And usually when you've found a piece that you think is so fine, so exquisite and magnificent--is the day you overhear someone chuckling that it is weird.

But here's what you often find antiques dealers chuckling over the most--politically incorrect antiques. I personally chuckle the most over clown collectibles and antiques and have made outrageous fun of those oddities in previous blog posts.

So, in honor of having fun in the antiques trade, occasionally I'll highlight a politically incorrect antique or collectible. Just to be clear--some of these antiques or collectibles, I'd have in my own home. I'm not making fun of the dealers or the items necessarily--just how times have changed with modern science and knowledge and how some items are hopelessly hysterical and amusing when viewed through the lens of modern times.(I have to say that because I don't want to be politically incorrect and offend anyone).  And it's most often customers that will come in and laughingly comment on what fun it is.

So, what antique or collectible cracks you up the most?

Who Says Antiques Can't Be Funny? Umm--And Crazy!

Yes, I find some antiques funny. OK, I find most of life pretty darn funny. Yes, I live in Florence--the antiques capital of Colorado and it was here I discovered just how funny antiques can really be.

A few weeks ago, many antiques shops decorated windows for Pioneer Days. I took some pictures of the windows at Legends and Lace, and the Iron Gate Antiques Mall, both on Florence's Main St.

For some odd reason, I was allowed to get a little crazy with the window at the Iron Gate. I showed some pictures of the display and some corny signs I printed up in previous blog posts. Naturally, I was a bit curious as to the reaction browsers and customers would have. I totally get that some people would think it was a bit over the top. In fact, one of the employees commented on how corny it was. When I casually mentioned that I might have had something to do with that travesty--the review changed to: cute.

Some feedback came in from customers. Sophisticated. I was surprised by that one. But the proof was in how much attention a window gets and how many of the items showcased actually sell from the window. OK, on both counts.

But sometimes things can backfire!

To refresh your memories. This was one of the corny things we did in the window.

That's an antique surgery or dental table. And the leg is a vintage prosthesis.

I thought it was corny. But hey, you try and decorate a window based on the items vendors have in their booths and somehow get a theme going.

So, here's where it almost backfired. I was sitting in Iron Gate Antique Mall by the door on an antique church pew. OK, I know it's sacrilegious to think of someone of my ilk to be in a church pew. But it's located by the door and occasionally I sit there and greet customers.

The pew has a great view of the entire window. I noticed two gentleman walking by, then they put on the brakes and stopped by the "leg" display. Even though I couldn't hear them, I could see them quivering with laughter.

I was thinking" Thank God! Someone besides me think this is a little amusing.

But these guys were laughing so hard, I was wondering why. They then came in the store.

As I greeted them (without mentioning I noticed them guffawing outside) I noticed the gentleman laughing the hardest had a leg prosthesis. I inwardly cringed, thinking: Oh my God! In my wildest window-decorating fantasies, I NEVER even thought of how people who were missing a limb would take this. What have I done!?

The men greeted me and strode by, still chuckling. They never once mentioned it was offensive.

And that's when I realized, if someone with a partially missing leg thought it was hysterically funny--then I too could come out of the closet and be as corny as I want.

Yes, even though it almost backfired: Who Says Antiques Can't Be Funny?

Florence can't be the only place in the country with some funny antiques. Feel free to send us your funny antiques' pictures and maybe we'll put the on the blog.

We Found YOU In Florence, The Antiques Capital Of Colorado: Alison Helsley & Rose-Marie Gerschefske

A priest, a rabbi and a parrot walk into a bar…No, wait! Two nice young women walk into a store in Florence, the antiques capital of Colorado and buy a tractor crankshaft… OK, now I have the story correct.

As most regular blog readers know, I semi-recently  started a new feature here. It’s simple. Not long ago, a marketing campaign started in Florence—Find It In Florence. I have nothing to do with that campaign. But since I am a perennially curious former newspaper reporter who has always been fascinated with the true stories evident in seemingly ordinary life—I decided to see what would happen when I pop out of nowhere with a camera and a notepad and ask people what they are going to do with that antiques’ find, they discovered in Florence. So, now we have: Will We Find YOU In Florence, The Antiques Capital of Colorado?

This time around we found two creative, fun-loving women who hauled a big rusty vintage tractor crankshaft ($42) t to the counter of the Iron Gate Antique Mall in Florence.

Naturally I could not help asking what they were going to do with that lovely, heavy rusty beast. I knew there had to be a better way to do weight training.

Alison Helsley of Canon City (recently relocated from Dallas, Texas) was delighted to find this work of art in Florence. She is planning to make a table base. She described the look she is going for as: “industrial, modern rustic.”

            Rose-Marie (left) and Alison show off their latest Florence find--a tractor crankshaft

       

Music to my ears! I knew exactly what she meant—and that scared me. But that’s what working around lovely eccentric, rusty and yummy vintage things does to a person.

“It’s going to make an awesome coffee table,” Alison said.

I have no doubt about that. Alison said she is going to use a metal cog as the base and some pallet wood as the top.

As usual, I asked Alison to send True Story Club a photo of the finished product.

Alison was accompanied by her friend, Rose-Marie Gerschefske, who is visiting from Dallas. Rose-Marie got a mini-workout by helping her friend with the crankshaft and lifting it up for a picture.

OK, as usual we had a blast with: Will We Find YOU in Florence, the Antiques Capital of Colorado. But the question is: Will you be the next people we find in Florence?

You might be shopping in Florence and someone might come up and ask you if you want to be found in Florence—and be on this blog. So far, not one person has refused! Everyone has been gracious and shared what they were buying and WHY.

Even if I don’t find YOU in Florence—you are welcome to submit a photo of yourself and/or your friends and family and share what YOU found in Florence. It can be an item, a meal or an experience. I am really not that fussy—as long as we are all having fun, sharing a memory or sharing a creative idea.

Who Says Antiques Can't Be Fun? A Leg & A Ho In Florence--The Antiques Capital Of Colorado

Who says antiques can't be fun? Certainly not me.

There are a few people in Florence--the antiques capital of Colorado--who seem to have a warped sense of humor. If you read a previous blog post, you saw just a sampling of window displays in honor the 88th annual Pioneer Days, slated for Sept. 18 to 20.

One of the most amusing windows was spotted at Legends and Lace with its sporting ladies and a gentleman caller getting ready for, ahem, a night of romance.

Then we went to Iron Gate Antiques Mall and spotted a window with some rather corny signs it. I noted there was a rumor a few more signs might pop up in the window. And I wasn't lying.

If you don't believe the level of silliness going on in the antiques trade (in select parts of Florence) breeze by the Iron Gate and Legends and Lace to see for yourself.

Since we visited the Iron Gate window last week--this sign popped up. GET A LEG UP ON YOUR SHOPPING. Sigh! How original!

That's an old dental or medical table (for sale) and a leg (yes, also for sale). And getting a leg up on the shopping refers to Junktique and Punktique on Sept. 18 and 19. Most people know about Junktique--and open air market replete with fine antiques, collectibles and plain, old junk and other fun stuff.

But Punktique is NEW! It's also an open air market, and caters to those interested in steampunk items. Now, a few weeks ago I did a search on the word--PUNKTIQUE. It does not come up that much, except in terms of an alternative music genre. So, (and you heard it hear first) the PUNKTIQUE open air market for steampunkers (and all those with tastes leaning towards neo-Victorian, industrial and gothic) in Florence, MIGHT well be one of the first such events in the USA. I say USA--because steampunk is much more popular in the UK and Australia and is starting to come into its own in the USA more.

Now, won't that be exciting--to be at one of the first punktique markets ever?

Back to the window display. Some of those window decorators at Iron Gate could not resist this one.

Oh, my goodness! Travesty upon the English language! Imagine getting a real antique HOE and imagining the pioneers might have been thinking about farm implements when they came up with the slogan: Westward Ho! What kind of crazed antiques dealers do they have in Florence?

See you at Pioneer Days and Junktique and Punktique. You won't know who I am. I'll have my camera. But I'll be in hiding. Why? Because as you might have guessed--I am the butcher of the English language responsible for these signs.

AND I also might see you somewhere in Florence--the antiques capital of Colorado--when I pop out of nowhere and ask to take your picture for our new feature: Will we find YOU in Florence?

We Found YOU In Florence, Colorado: Frankie Nelson & A Pitchfork

Will we find YOU in Florence, the antiques capital of Colorado? That's part of a new (an hopefully fun) feature on this blog. It's simple. There is so much to find in Florence, but we want to find YOU in Florence and see what YOU found in Florence. Even if we don't find you first, feel free to send us a selfie or picture of you and your Florence find. Simply include your name and where you are from, the item and what you plan to do with it. Try and get a Florence landmark or background in the picture, so we know you found it in Florence. And feel free to tell us how much you paid for it (if you want) and what store you purchased it from.

This week we found FRANKIE NELSON OF CANON CITY in Florence--the antiques capital of Colorado!

This nice lady was minding her own business and shopping in one of her favorite places in Florence--The Iron Gate Antiques Mall at 109 W. Main St.--when I popped out and FOUND HER IN FLORENCE.

Mrs. Nelson found a variety of treasures in Florence--but her main find was.... What do you think it was? I'll give you a hint.

You guessed it! A pitchfork. I was going to ask Mrs. Nelson to recreate this American Gothic artwork with her pitchfork purchase. But Mrs. Nelson was way too cheerful a person to even come close to pretending to be dour for a pitchfork picture.

Here's the real Frankie Nelson with her Florence pitchfork.

Yes, the dealers at Iron Gate (and in most of friendly Florence) care about customer safety. Those are some wine corks on the pitchfork tines.

Mrs. Nelson is an antiques dealer herself--so she knows Florence is one of the best places to come for fabulous finds for her own home and yard.

What do you think she's going to do with this antique beauty? She's going to put some corn cobs on them and make a delicious, antiquey, primitive bird feeder!

She even offered to send me a picture of the finished project, so I can put in on the blog.  So, she's my type of person and antiques collector--because she EXACTLY understood what we are going after on this blog, without me even explaining!

Mrs. Nelson also showed me lots of pictures of some fantastic things she's done in her home landscaping with antique wagons, a green thumb and sheer creativity. So, I cannot wait to see how she works this pitchfork into her autumn decor.

Yes, we found YOU in Florence--the antiques capital of Colorado--Frankie Nelson. Thanks for being a creative inspiration and sharing your decorating ideas with us--and letting us FIND you and share in your enthusiasm for antiques,collectibles, decorating and creative living.

You want to be FOUND in Florence? You can either wait for me to pop out of nowhere with my camera and goofy look on my face, asking if you want to be on this blog---OR you can send us a picture of what you found in Florence. Please make sure there is a Florence landmark or background so we know you are indeed in Florence. Let us know where in Florence you found it--and even how much you paid for it, if you want. And let us know what you plan to do with it. And we LOVE pictures of how you put your fantastic Florence find to use in your home or yard--or who you plan to give it to as a gift.

Who Says Antiques Can't Be Fun: Florence, Colorado

Who says antiques can't be fun? As most everyone knows, Florence--the antiques capital of Colorado is gearing up for the 88th Annual Pioneer Days, held Sept. 18 to 20. This year the event will have a bit of steampunk flair.

There will be a steampunk ball street dance and Punktique. Annually, bargain hunters descend on Florence for Junktique--a cavalcade of bargains, antiques and good old-fashioned junk. New this year is Punktique--and open air steampunk market held at the same time as Junktique.

There are already lots of signs in Florence's windows welcoming steampunkers.

And a few windows that prove: antiques can be fun.

This was taken at Legends and Lace. This dude is taking a bath and strumming a melody: Love Always, according to his sheet music.

Ah! Seems innocent enough. Let's "pan" over to the other side of the window.

Oh my! You can't see it very well in the picture, but that there fancy lady is holding a cigarette holder and some money in her hand. And there's a pile of money on the table. My goodness! That dude is getting ready for an evening with the sporting ladies. The window is quite the homage to racy ladies--and I love it.

Let's move down Florence's Main St. a little. Someone with a warped sense of humor was busy at the Iron Gate Antique Mall.

Looks innocuous enough. A bunch of grates hanging on the wall in the window. Yeah, it's a little steampunk. But you can't really see the sign in the right side of the picture. Some joker put up a sign that reads: Isn't This A "Grate" Wall? Honestly, I am appalled by that sign. When I find out who put it up there--I will tell them that antiques are a serious business and nothing to joke about.

What else is in the window at Iron Gate? Well, it's an homage to pioneers with a little steampunk thrown in.

Yes, someone had the audacity to dress a nice pioneer woman up, plunk a steampunk-inspired hat on her noggin and then give her a suitcase, a bear skull and a badminton racquet to fend off all the animals in the Old West (pictured in the background). She was placed in a Victorian-era baby buggy with a gizmo and light bulb-- to steampunk-power her buggy across the lone prairie.

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At the top of this picture, one can see the wheels of her steampunk-powered buggy, which also has a big chain and anchor in the back. Why you ask? Just because.

There's some more taxidermied animals and a nice display of antique wheels. The same joker who put that "grate" wall sign up, decided to put a HOT WHEELS sign on that big rusty John Deere wheel.

There's a few more signs in the window. Rumor has it these window decorators were also going after that Burma Shave sign ambience. And rumor has it that a few more of those corny and appalling signs might appear in the window before Pioneer Days. I hear that one of the signs that might pop up is SO silly that people might gasp in shock.

All this nonsense really has to stop. People will start thinking antiques are fun. Wait, they are!

See you all at Pioneer Days, Junktique and Punktique. How will you know who I am? I'll be wearing a red rose. No, actually, I'll be wearing a taxidermied skunk with a sign around my neck that reads: SteamSkunk.