Buttermilk Junction Happenins'

Moving On.....

2011-05-27T18:32:00.001-07:00

Greetings dear friends! I hope this email finds you well and enjoying a "taste" of summer! I think we are all anxious for the summer weather.

The subject line of this note implies what you might be thinking... yes, I am giving up my space at Indulge and closing Buttermilk Junction. It was a difficult and emotional decision but I am confident it was the right one. I am working full time in a job I LOVE and because I don’t have the time/energy required to devote to my shop anymore, it just feels like the right time to move on. My dream was to have my own shop and I did just that and it was an accomplishment that I am proud of.

My remaining store inventory will be going to "American Country" in Keizer... sometimes my web links don’t work so you may have to just manually type this one in to your browser... it's www.americancountry.us. Emily has some great vendors in her shop and (if you live locally) I am sure she would love to meet you, if you haven't been there already.

I have already shut down my website, simply because it would be really hard to fulfill orders at this point. I plan to keep my blog although I have never been very good at keeping it current!! The last day at Indulge will be Friday June 10. It’s business as usual there until the final day, so if you had your eye on something now is the time to snap it up. I also brought in a bunch of new goodies this past week.

If you're worried about where you will get wax melts for your melters, there is at least one other vendor at Indulge carrying them. Or, plan a nice drive to American Country in Keizer to stock up!!

I have loved being there for you these past 5+ years and I have made many friends.. some who have become "forever friends." It's been a pleasure and a privilege to get to know you and help decorate your homes. Somewhere down the road you never know if "The Buttermilk" will pop up again... but for now, I am enjoying having "earned income," being an integral part of an office team and just being a plain ol' consumer again.

I couldn’t have succeeded without the help and love of my husband, my Mom and Dad and my customers. I am ever grateful for you and I thank you from the bottom of my heart. Thanks for the memories!!!

~God Bless,

Christina Z
Shopkeeper

2011-02-17T15:01:00.001-08:00

Happy February people! A few days ago the wind was howling, the rain was coming down in buckets and it felt like winter...today, we have puffy white clouds, blue sky and sunshine. We've had amazing weather lately, and when the rest of the country has been dealing with snow, sleet, etc. we Oregonians have had dry, mild days. I'm sure the "experts" will be saying we are way behind on rainfall, but honestly - it's been wonderful!

Event:

This coming Saturday, February 19th, INDULGE Antiques is holding an after-hours shopping/dining event. From 6pm to 8pm, you can enjoy a dinner menu, pastries and wine AND even better, an additional 10% off storewide!! We are participating in this sale.... be sure to check it out!

New to the shop:

*Silicone dipped light bulbs in both flickering and standard variety

*Battery taper candles with regular and silicone tipped bulbs available in brown, beeswax and red

*Buttered Maple Syrup reed diffusers back in stock

*Real Tallow Berry bundles and a few Easter goodies for your Springtime decorating

Goose Creek jar candle SALE ALERT!

On "in-store special" through the end of the month are Goose Creek jar candles! Goose Creek candles are the best and if you've ever burned or melted one, you already know this. They burn clean down the sides with no wax residue, and smell just as good from the first time you light them until there is a scant 1/4" of wax left in the bottom of the jar. Some of the scents available are Maple Toddy, Orange Vanilla, Cinnamon and my personal fave, Apple Bourbon. All Goose Creek jar candles are 20% off so hurry in for best selection!

Happy February my friends......

~Christina Z, Shopkeeper

2011-01-23T17:22:00.001-08:00

It's the end of January and before we know it, Spring will be upon us! Easter seems like it's late this year - April 24th, which gives us plenty of Spring decorating time.

Please make a note that the Buttermilk Junction shop phone number has changed... it's now 541-285-7106. I've updated the website and the blog with the new number. Since I am working full time, you may not reach me when you call... but if you leave a message I'm happy to return your call. As always, you are more than welcome to call INDULGE for directions, hours, etc. Their phone number is listed below.

Coming middle of this week to the shop:

*Black Crow candles will be restocked in both the 8 oz. and 16 oz. sizes

*New sock kitties and wonderful primitive dolls from Ohio (picture above)

*A few new signs and wooden stars

*A little Spring décor!

*Still en route are silicone dipped light bulbs, battery taper candles and reed diffusers

Please don’t forget... I have a full assortment of wax melts and cookie tarts at home for local customers. It's never an inconvenience to set up a time to either deliver them to you or have you pick them up.... so please don't hesitate to call me!

My new full time job is going very well, but I sure miss seeing your smiling faces in the shop! I do hope all is well with you and yours.....

~Christina Z, Shopkeeper

2011-01-09T12:53:00.000-08:00

Just a quick posting to let you know I changed the shop phone number. The new number is 541-285-7106.... feel free to call anytime you need anything! If you get voice mail, please leave a message and I'll call you back as soon as I can.

Local customers remember; I have wax melts and some votives at home and am happy to bring them to you or you can come to me.

Take care!

~Christina Z

2010-12-23T06:41:00.001-08:00

Ho Ho Ho.....Merry Christmas! Just a few more days until the big "C"... wow. I'll bet the mall is a beehive of activity today. Glad I am done with my shopping!

As a reminder, Irvin's wax melters are still on sale both in store and online through December 24th; pricing as follows:

Mini Melters $15.00

Jumbo Melters $17.00

Oval Melters $19.00

Jar Melters $20.00

I am running low on a few designs in all four styles, so I will thank you in advance for your flexibility with substitutions. And due to the late date and our West Coast location, any online orders placed this week will very likely NOT make it to you before Christmas... please keep that in mind.

This year the Christmas goodies are going straight to 50% off, starting the week after Christmas. Since I do not have any consignment items this year, there are no exceptions to worry about! I'll be placing stickers showing the discount on all Christmas candle rings, cards, snowmen, Christmas candle scents, primitive and feather trees, etc. Technically, the sale pricing will run from Tuesday December 28th through Saturday January 8th but you might find a few bargains on Christmas Eve as well.

In other news, Bradley & Englert has decided to undergo a name change to "INDULGE." The owners of the shop feel it more accurately reflects the vibe there, and I am sure they will be getting their signage, business cards, etc. changed over in the coming weeks. Also a brief mention - there shouldn't be any variation of their hours on both Christmas Eve and New Years Eve, but if you are late heading out there on either of those days, feel free to call them at 541-747-3185.

Crossroads reed diffusers did not arrive as planned - sorry about that; we will shoot for January on those. If you were planning one as a Christmas gift, please consider purchasing a Gift Certificate from INDULGE. They do have them available in whatever denomination you choose, and the nice thing is that you can then redeem the gift cert. for any merchandise - you aren't just limited to The Buttermilk. I found that out this past week and thought it was good to know!

Back in stock and in store now are Carrot Cake wax cookie melts, Clove wax melts, and a large selection of Black Crow jar candles and room sprays. Coming soon will be Cinnamon Stix wax melts and the pretty Redwork Samplers as featured in one of my Country Sampler magazine ads last year. Web customers - I have not forgotten you and do still plan to send you a discount coupon to be used in 2011. Thank you for your patience during this transitional time for The Buttermilk.

Thank you all for your friendship, encouragement and loyalty in 2010. Till we meet again, MERRY CHRISTMAS to all AND a HAPPY NEW YEAR!!

~Christina Z, Shopkeeper

Buttermilk Junction
located inside INDULGE
1461 Mohawk Blvd., Springfield OR

541-747-3185 or 541-998-1563

Hours: Tues thru Sat, 11-6pm

Sale on Irvin's Wax Melters - in store and online!

2010-12-09T17:27:00.000-08:00

This is the biggest sale on Irvin's Wax Melters I've ever done.... so let the savings begin! From now through December 24th, ALL in stock Irvin's melters will be on sale as follows:

Mini Melters $15.00

Jumbo Melters $17.00

Oval Melters $19.00

Jar Melters $20.00

If you've ever tried a wax melter, you know that they are absolutely wonderful. Because the heat from the electric lightbulb melts the wax you place inside or on top of the melter, you can enjoy the fragrance of a candle without ever having to light one! No soot, mess or flame to worry about. And made in the good ole' USA to boot.

The sale prices apply to in-stock merchandise only - discount pricing does not apply to special orders. Sale prices valid both in store and online - online prices have been adjusted and are ready for you to order*. If you'd like to place an order and pick it up locally, please do so and select that option during the checkout process. I'm always happy to help in any way I can!

*Please note that because this sale is running both online and in store, your first choice may not be available at the time of order. If that is the case, I will notify you if your first choice is unavailable. However, I have lots of stock on these and it's very likely that I can fulfill your request!

Happy Holidays, one and all.

2010-12-03T08:42:00.000-08:00

Well the transition is almost complete.... and things are looking so great at the new location! I snapped the above pictures when I was at at the new location yesterday.

I delivered votives to "B & E" (as I am calling it) as well as multiple jars of wax melts. Here is a fragrance list of what I have there now:

Votives ($2 each):
Orange Vanilla
Buttered Maple Syrup
Apple Bourbon
Cinnamon
Orange Clove
Cranberry
Balsam Fir

Wax Melts ($1.50 each):
Orange Clove
Log Cabin
French Vanilla
Hazelnut Coffee
Buttered Maple Syrup
Cinnabun mini melts (pk of 10 / $4)
Candy Cane
Spice Stick - coming soon!
Brown Sugar - coming soon!

Wax 'Cookie' Melts ($2 each):
Gingerbread
Lemon Cake
Christmas Cookie
Toasted Marshmallow
Carrot Cake - coming soon!

When you make your selections, you will notice white paper bags next to each display of 'wax.' Please utilize these paper bags for the appropriate 'wax' you are purchasing, so the staff at Bradley & Englert can properly ring in your selections.

Also back in stock is Buttered Maple Syrup in both the 16oz. and 26oz. jars. Anyone who has tried Buttered Maple knows it is simply the best out there. Over the next few weeks, I will be getting the Reed Diffusers back in, as well as a large re-order of both Black Crow jar candles as well as Goose Creek. This is the "candle time of year" and you won't be disappointed if you try any one of these fantastic candles! Don't forget that local customers may call me on the shop phone (541-998-1563) any time to pick up or have candles delivered. Email works too!

In other exciting (local) news, Ann at Emerald Valley Compounding Pharmacy here in Junction City is now carrying the Legacy line of greeting cards. I so enjoyed having these wonderful cards, but my new space was just not conducive to moving them there.... so Ann has picked up the line and has them available now. "EVCP" is located at 375 Holly St Junction City, and their hours are Mon - Thurs 9-5; Fri 9-4.

Speaking of cards, I just received a new shipment of the "Of Purpose and Spirit" cards, which are blank cards featuring beautiful photography of time worn, simple objects. There is a wide variety of Christmas images available at the new location.

Other new and recently restocked items are candy cane striped battery candles, regular battery candles, caramels in packs of 6, Holiday candle rings, cake candles in tin cans (so yummy!), gingham kraft gift wrap, a huge tin snowman cookie cutter, grubby tea light battery candles, assorted stockings made from coverlets, and much more for your Country, Holiday Home!

The next email I send will include information for the annual SALE on the always wonderful Irvin's wax melters... this sale will take place both online and in store. Details are coming soon so stay tuned! Happy December ya'll!

~Christina Z, Shopkeeper

Buttermilk Junction
Inside Bradley & Englert Antiques
1461 Mohawk Blvd, Springfield, OR

541-747-3185 or 541-998-1563

Tues - Sat 11-6pm

2010-11-29T07:31:00.000-08:00

The “Inventory Reduction” sale went extremely well! For that reason, our last day at the Junction City location was Saturday November 27th.

Friday, November 26th, marked our 5 year anniversary...a bittersweet one, for sure.

Quite a bit of our inventory has been moved over to the new location. Officially, we are already open for business at Bradley & Englert Antiques; however, our space won’t be fully stocked there until Tuesday December 7th. I'm working on it pretty much every day! All the Christmas goodies have been delivered over, and there are some darling primitives for the Christmas season!

Goose Creek jar candles have also been delivered to B&E as I am calling it. Tin wax melters and wax melts will be available there soon as well. Over the next week or so, I will have wax melts, jar candles and votives at home too. If you need anything in the meantime, please call me (phone number below) or email me and I will make sure to get some wonderful "smellies" to you asap!

I hope you and your families had a Happy Thanksgiving!

~Christina Z, Shopkeeper

Buttermilk Junction
Inside Bradley & Englert Antiques
1461 Mohawk Blvd.
Springfield, OR

541-998-1563

In-Store Inventory Reduction Sale Continues!

2010-11-17T08:30:00.000-08:00

Hello one and all… how has your November gone so far? Mine has been interesting, to say the least. I can hardly believe we will soon be Giving Thanks for our many blessings and feasting on turkey and dressing. Gobble Gobble!

The “Inventory Reduction” goodies are still plentiful and there are some wonderful things to be found, such as select Goose Creek and Black Crow jar candles, 2011 calendars, homespun fat quarters, framed stitcheries, wall décor, furniture and TONS of primitive country décor. Two items you may not have known were on clearance – a huge selection of votive candles, and ALL the Legacy greeting cards. Now is the time to stock up on these items and there are plenty available.

The sale percentage increases to 40% off this week – here is a reminder of the sale schedule:

Week Nov 16th - 40% off
Week Nov 23rd - 50% off
Week Nov 30th - 50%-75% off
Fall goodies 50% off til gone
Final day current location - Saturday December 4th

Today we move most of the large furniture over to the new location. Officially, we will be open for business at Bradley & Englert Antiques as of Tuesday November 16th, however, our space won’t be fully stocked there until about the first week of December.

I mentioned in the last email that you would still be able to shop locally for all the wonderful candles we are known for. As I have told many of you, I will be stocking all the popular jar candles, votives and wax melts at my home here in Junction City (in addition to the full selection available at the new shop location). I am working on the website so that you can order these items online and select local pickup, local delivery, or deliver to the new shop location. While we are in transition, these items will mostly be available at the “old” store location but will be filtering out to both home and new shop very soon.

I am working on cards and brochures for the candles… I should have them done in the next few days. In the meantime, PLEASE email me or call me on the shop phone at 541-998-1563 if you need anything. I am keeping this phone number so please make a note of it or save this email.

The Christmas sale “Blackberry Junction” is in full swing at the Albany “Fairmount” Grange… all our Christmas goodies are there and I’ve heard it’s been a fabulous show! Blackberry Junction is open 10am-6pm daily through Saturday November 20th… don’t miss it! The Fairmount Grange is located at 835 N. Albany Rd. in Albany, OR. Visit their recently updated blog at: http://blackberryjunction.blogspot.com/

As I’ve said before, special orders are ABSOLUTELY still welcome! Jar candles, curtains, braided rugs, lighting… anything and everything you need for home decorating or gift giving.

Thanks for all the well wishes, hugs and tears…. and thank you again for 5 wonderful years of Buttermilk fun. Here’s to many more!!!! You'll be hearing from me at least one more time before this location closes.

~Christina Z, Shopkeeper

BLACKBERRY JUNCTION CHRISTMAS SHOW/SALE

2010-11-10T13:37:00.001-08:00

Be sure to check out the wonderful Christmas show, Blackberry Junction! Located at the Fairmount Grange in Albany, this sale always has wonderful treasures!!

Ring in the Holiday Season with a visit to Blackberry Junction. The sale starts this Friday, November 12th and runs through Saturday, November 20th - 10am-6pm every day.

The Grange is located at 835 North Albany Rd... if travelling on I-5. exit at 233, take Hwy 20 West through Albany - follow the signs to "City Center/Corvallis." Cross the Willamette River and take the second right on North Albany Rd - the grange is located on the right, just past Ray's Grocery Store.

If you'd like to visit the "BBJ" blog, click here: www.blackberryjunction.blogspot.com

See you there!

Announcement

2010-11-02T14:41:00.000-07:00

I have a bit of news to share with you.... so may as well get right to the point and get it over with.

I am returning to the "working world" ... and truth be told, I have been presented with a job opportunity that I cannot pass up. The hard part is that I cannot be in two places at once - darn it anyway. This is one of those "grown up" things that you wish someone else would do for you.... well shoot, this one is all on me! Deep breath, here goes.....

Since I have to return to work, I will be downsizing the shop and moving. I found a wonderful location, a "co-op" called Bradley & Englert Antiques in Springfield. I knew the minute I walked in that it was the place I wanted the shop to be, and if you have not been there yet, you are seriously missing out! If you are scratching your head and going "huh??" please know I am taking this action because I adore Buttermilk Junction and want nothing more than its continued success, and want to continue to meet your country décor and gift-giving needs for many years to come.

I absolutely plan to continue to carry jar candles, wax melts, Irvin's melters, lots of country primitive décor and vintage pieces at the new location. Special orders will still be welcome. Although I will be stocking all the wonderful primitive treasures we so love, my space there will be a tad smaller than what I currently have. That means over the next five weeks, we are having a BIG inventory reduction sale!!!! I know this is a lot of information to digest.... but here are the details:

Everything that is NOT going to the new location will be progressively discounted. Naturally, this discount will apply only to in-stock merchandise and will not include furniture, which will be marked with a set price and will not be subject to further discounts. Again, items that are going to the new location will not be discounted.

Week Nov 2nd - 50% off Fall items 'til gone
Week Nov 9th - 30% off (Inventory reduction sale starts)
Week Nov 16th - 40% off
Week Nov 23rd - 50% off
Week Nov 30th - 50%-75% off
Final day current location - Saturday December 4th

While still at the current location, we will continue to be open Tuesday through Friday from 11-5; Saturday from 10-5; closed Sunday and Monday.

There will be display fixtures, backroom shelving, etc. that I will offer for sale... however some of these items cannot be picked up until the end of the month. If you purchase one of these items, I will give you the dates and times during which you may pick them up.

Happily, we have been invited to participate in the Blackberry Junction Christmas/seasonal show at the Fairmount Grange in Albany. Everything I have that is Christmas is going to this show, so if you are in a Christmas mood, you NEED to go to Blackberry! The show runs November 12 - November 20. Anything that does not sell at Blackberry Junction will either go to the new location or return to the current shop location and be included in the inventory reduction sale. The location of Blackberry Junction is the Fairmount Grange in Albany... the address is 835 North Albany Rd. You can "mapquest" it or just email me and I'll send you directions.

From this point forward, there will be no layaways or items held. Gift certificates will no longer be sold. All sales are FINAL - no returns or exchanges will be accepted. Outstanding gift certificates may be redeemed right up until December 4th... expired gift certificates will not be honored. After that date, outstanding gift certificates will be considered null and void. If you have a gift certificate and cannot come in before December 4th, please call or email me.

IMPORTANT!!! Wax melts and jar candles will still be available in Junction City - if you are currently buying these items from The Buttermilk, you will continue to be able to do so and right here in town. I would not leave you in the lurch on this!! Buttered Maple Syrup makes life worth living! Ha ha. But seriously, all the wonderful scents you have grown to love will be at your disposal. I will provide details on this soon.

For web and long distance customers - because inventory levels will be changing rapidly during this transition, it will not be possible for me to offer the same in store discount to you. However, after the first of the year when things settle down, I will get the web site updated and send you a coupon to use for a nice discount on your online or phone purchase.

I couldn't have succeeded these past 5 years without my wonderful customers... please know it has been a joy to help you. Thank you for your encouragement during this transition.

~Christina Z

Furniture For Sale

2010-10-14T14:30:00.001-07:00

Time for a couple pieces to find new homes! I have recently reduced the price on the corner hutch, and marked both these cribs for sale.

The corner hutch is a 1920s reproduction, but that date makes this piece an antique in its own right. It measures approx 90" tall at the highest point, and is on casters (that you cant see) which makes it easy to move around. This is a beautiful cabinet - if I had room it would be in my dining room right now. I have marked it $495, which is less than what I paid for it.

Also for sale is the cast iron crib in shabby cream paint. It does have the front rail, but the hardward to attach it is gone. I am sure you could easily make something or use the rail for a seperate display, towels, etc. It measures approx 55" long and 30" deep. Marked $85.

Last I have the really unique wooden crib for sale. I do not know its vintage, but it does have the original wheels (we just took them off to make work in a display - we can reattach for you). This piece is $50.00 and measures approx. 38" long by 20" wide.

All furniture available for local pick up only. You must have a way to transport the corner hutch, but we will help you load.

~Christina Z

My First Quilt!

2010-10-02T10:57:00.000-07:00

Well I did it... my first quilt! I've had the pattern for several years.. it's called "Slim Pickins" by Primitive Pieces by Lynda. I only had to buy 5 fat quarters to do this whole quilt... that's how much fabric I have been hoarding over the years! It took me almost exactly two months, start to finish. I did the blocks and all the hand applique while at the shop, and finished the borders at home. The leaves, stars and berries are all done in wool, and the overall size is about twin size. When I took the picture, I think I had too much flash... the picture looks really light... even my wall color is washed out. In real life it does not look light like that... it is primitive and dark.

I'm already on to my next project - an "Orange Peel" quilt from the book Remembering Adelia. I am hooked, for sure!!

Don't forget about our new hours... closed Sundays and Monday... starting Oct 11! Have a great weekend all!

Where does the time go....

2010-09-24T10:25:00.000-07:00

For heaven's sake... do you mean to tell me I haven't updated my blog since JULY? That is stinkin' ridiculous! Why is this so hard....

I need to let you know that our hours will be changing at The Buttermilk. As many of you know, I've been working 6 days a week for awhile now. As the dentist so tactfully informed me this morning, "I am approaching middle age" now. Using that as a partial excuse, I just can't keep up this schedule! So I've made the executive decision to return to a schedule that is closer to what I used to have... starting October 11th, the new hours will be:

Tuesday - Friday 11am-5pm
Saturday 10am-5pm
Closed Sunday and Monday

Sorry for any inconvenience this may cause. I've really been struggling with this decision and it just feels like now is the time to make the change.

Fall is in full swing here... I hope Oregon has a nice long Fall this year. You never know though!

Sorry I am making this short... I'll try to do better about keeping up with things. Now at least I'll have two whole days off every week - woo hoo!

~Christina Z

2010-07-26T13:35:00.000-07:00

It's time! It's here! Buttermilk Junction will be having the annual "Summer Sale" this Friday and Saturday, July 30th & 31st. Check this out:

40% off
Amish barn stars
throw pillows
flags & select patriotic goodies
floral garlands & select wreaths
table runners, shower curtains & valances
rag rugs
select electric candlelights

30% off
Irvin's wax melters
lampshades
Family Heirloom Weavers queen-size blankets
penny runners
wool hooked rugs

20% off
special order cotton braid rugs

NO... you don't have to memorize this! Everything that is on sale will be clearly marked with a discount tag.

So sorry... sale pricing does not apply to web/phone orders and unless otherwise noted, does not include special orders. There will be no holds prior to the sale.

You can call it an inventory reduction sale, Christmas in July or simply a summer sale...but don't miss it!

One quick update... we should have the Tea Lady Teas in time for the Scandinavian Festival, which starts August 12th. Til next time, stay cool!!

~Christina Z, shopkeeper

2010-07-16T10:11:00.000-07:00

The mailman was very good to me yesterday... I received the new Judy Condon book, The Comfort of Home!!I have only a couple copies left as the rest have already been spoken for... I just listed them on the website and they are $24.95 each.

The mailman also brought me the latest issue of our favorite magazine, Country Sampler! This is the September issue... chock full of wonderful Fall decorating ideas. 10 copies are available at $4.95 each.... dont wait too long to get yours!

I can hardly believe it's been a whole year since the issue that featured my house came out. Time sure do fly! The next update will give the particulars for our big annual sale. Stay tuned and enjoy the sunshine!!

~Christina Z, shopkeeper

2010-07-12T13:43:00.000-07:00

I am pleased to welcome Sophie's Cottage to Buttermilk Junction as we host our very first Trunk Show! My friend AJ (a.k.a. Sophie)and I met a few years ago when she had a shop in Hillsboro, OR. She still has her goodies in several antique malls in the Portland area, so I asked her if she would put together a "Shabby Beach" themed display for the month of July and take her show on the road! We just finished putting it together and I think it looks terrific. Love those aqua tones against that red wall.

The Sophie's Cottage Trunk Show will be available for at least the next few weeks...be sure to check it out!

All flag items are still 25% off... that includes all flags, flag finials and anything with a flag on it! Sorry, consignment items are not included and sale does not apply to phone/web orders.

The next email will give the particulars for our annual Inventory Reduction sale. Stay tuned and enjoy the sunshine!!

~Christina Z, shopkeeper

2010-06-30T16:00:00.000-07:00

We had a great turnout this past weekend at the Annual Parking Lot Sale! There were a few leftover goodies, which are now in the clearance section of the shop. There are still some great bargains to be had!

We will be closed on Monday July 5th.

Starting Saturday July 3rd, all flag items will be 25% off... that includes all flags, flag finials and anything with a flag on it! Sorry, consignment items are not included and sale does not apply to phone/web orders.

Happy summer all!

~Christina Z, shopkeeper

Just Listed!

2010-06-22T13:50:00.000-07:00

I just put the homespun fabrics on the website! They are available for purchase as both yardage (one yard min.) and fat quarters. I hope the pictures do them justice because they are gorgeous in person! Nice soft homespun, not the scratchy & rough stuff from the big boxes.

2010-06-21T12:14:00.001-07:00

Our annual Parking Lot sale is comingTHIS Saturday, June 26th from 9am-4pm. If you've been to my sales in the past, you know I mark sale items way down! We'll be set up in the parking lot on the south side of the building... if you pull in and don't see parking available, the entire parking lot on the north side of the building is available on Saturdays... even spaces marked for the insurance office. And one last item regarding the sale... to keep prices low, on June 26th we will not be accepting credit card payments for sales totaling less than $10.

We have two things happening in July. First, we'll be having our annual "Inventory Reduction Sale." Last year we did it in August, but have decided to move it ahead a bit this year. Details and dates will come in the next newsletter!

Secondly, we will be carrying pre-packaged tea from Eugene business "Tea Lady Teas!" This is exciting for The Buttermilk! Some of the initial offerings will be Peppermint, Yummy & Creamy, African Violet and Jazzi-Tea. As the teas arrive, I'll be posting them on the website with their own shipping rate. This will keep them affordable for those not in the area.

Last item to note in this newsletter is that Fall will be coming early to Buttermilk Junction! A nice selection of goodies will be available in early August. You were asking for it early last year so this year we're not waiting until September. Woo hoo!!

Hope to see you very soon!

~Christina Z, shopkeeper

An "Oops!"

2010-06-17T15:35:00.000-07:00

I've been meaning to post something here and, well... you know! I did an "oops" in my ad in the latest Washington/Oregon edition of the Country Pleasures magazine. I had been debating about changing my hours to be just Tuesday - Saturday and I guess I thought I had made a firm decision so I let the publisher know. Well short story long, I decided NOT to fiddle with my hours and never changed the ad back.

We will continue to be open MONDAY - SATURDAY from 10:00am - 5:00pm. Sorry for any confusion this may have caused!!

Primitive Night Lights back in stock!

2010-04-14T15:38:00.000-07:00

The darling primitive night lights are back in stock... thanks to the FedEx man :>) I have brown, red, mustard (shown) and brown with brownish bulb available once again. I'll be listing them on the website tomorrow. Also new to the shop and shown in the picture are the Irvin's outlet covers in blackened tin. I have the standard double outlet in stock, but they are also orderable in many other configurations, including GFCI outlets, double lightswitch, etc. Will get them listed on-line tomorrow too! Bye for now!

2010-04-02T12:57:00.000-07:00

Almost forgot! I promised Buttermilk customers Linda and Joe Harris that I'd post a link to their house. The Harrises were featured in the same issue of Country Sampler as my home... Aug/Sept 2009. Their home is OUTSTANDING... and currently for sale! Take a minute to click on the link below... you will be ready to move right in! Toota-Loo for now!

http://www.sunriserealtyllc.net/2710whisperingoakspl.htm

2010-04-02T10:01:00.000-07:00

If you live in the Pacific Northwest, you're probably about ready to float away... geesh.... talk about April showers! My niece, who lives in San Diego, called me a few days ago to "complain" how hot it was... 85 degrees. Poor baby!!

My new battery candles have arrived and they are way cool! I ordered these at the PA show and they were one of the last shipments to get here. There are several styles available... all are shown in the picture above. From left to right, top of shelf... small "votive" size BOC (battery operated candles) available in red and primitive brown, medium size "cake candle" BOC that actually has a timer function.. available only in prim brown, and a tall BOC avail only in mustard (and this is the only one). Lower shelf has the tall "cake candle" that have a full size taper BOC that slips down in the wax sleeve... avail in must and burg, and the new lumpy bumpy pillar BOC in mustard, tan and burg. All feature a very waxy, thick silicone bulb. Very different from the other BOCs I carry :>)

Also shown are two other items from the PA show (do these people realize it's been almost 3 months?!?!) One is a black metal sleeve with star cutouts... this will fit over a candle, but also has a small cut out at the bottom for you to feed an electric cord through. And the mustard star unit is made to show off whatever large jar or cake candle you are burning. Would even look darling with a large BOC!! Also available in several other colors.

Bye for now dear friends and HAPPY EASTER!

Gratitude

2010-03-26T19:36:00.000-07:00

Just wanted to take a break from my typical Blog posts and write about gratitude. That is, MY gratitude for the wonderful customers I have!! When I think about the success of Buttermilk Junction, I am blown away that we've continued to grow each year the shop has been in existence.

For those of you who don't know, I have wanted to own a country shop since I "found" country decorating in the eighties. In November 2005, my husband Lee and I rented the tiniest storefront we could find in Junction City and started setting up shop. If that space was 200 square feet I'd be surprised. Even though we knew it could never be our permanent home, we had to "test the waters" before jumping in any further. In April 2006, we moved to a 1000 square foot shop nearby and enjoyed that space until the summer of 2007. Due to issues with building management and a flood caused by an upstairs renter, we started looking for a new space for Buttermilk Junction. On Sept 1st 2007 we opened in a neat shop 3 blocks away. I thoroughly enjoyed that location for the two years we were there, even though parking was a huge problem as well as a few other issues. At the end of August 2009, I began packing up once again and moved over to Ivy St. to share space with our local quilt shop, Thimbles & Threads. That was 7 months ago and I haven't looked back since. Not only did my wonderful customers support the move, we've made many more country-lovin' friends since then and the past 7 months have exceeded my hopes. All this to say that without you, there wouldn't be a Buttermilk.

We are not rich by any stretch of the imagination... my husband and I BOTH need to contribute to our finances to pay the mortgage, car payment, etc. I always had a corporate paycheck and when I lost my full-time job to overseas outsourcing in 2008, I was not sure what to expect. But God is so good! And I thank the good Lord every day that I get to do what I love (DECORATE) and be my own boss. It's hard work but very rewarding and I look forward to whatever the future holds. When you come in and say Buttermilk Junction is your favorite store, or you'd rather shop there than anyplace else, I am truly honored. Thank you for your friendship and your support!!!

Homespun has arrived

2010-03-19T07:04:00.000-07:00

Well poo I am a week behind in my posts... I have been working really hard to get my new "POS" system up and running. It's been very time consuming to enter everything... hopefully another week and it will be done.

Look at this gorgeous homespun!! I have 8 bolts now... loves it! The red reverse windowpane and the mustard/black windowpane are my two favorites. I am so thinking curtains! This is very nice quality homespun, not the rough stuff from the "box" stores... $8.75 per yard. A reminder that the fabric ladies are happy to do the cutting.... you don't want me to do it... I cut fabric like I wrap gifts... and that's not a pretty picture my friends.

Spring Open House was a wonderful success! Too bad it didn't feel like spring... but that's OK, it does now :>) I've received SEVEN more boxes of goodies since the S.O.H.! Not all of it is seasonal... there was the homespun, some wonderful primitive "tabletop" cubbies, faux tallow berry candle rings and garlands, reed diffusers are back in, repro tin Easter chocolate molds, new braided trivets and coasters in wonderful colors, etc. I am also expecting the new Judy Condon book any day now. Oh and the UPS man brought me a big box of runners, shower curtains and window treatments that I haven't even opened yet!!

If you haven't been in the shop in awhile, please come see all that is new! Will try to get some of it on the website over the next few weeks... POS taking priority right now as I have to be up and running by April 1st.. no foolin'!

Happy Friday all!

Spring Open House next week!

2010-03-05T10:43:00.000-08:00

Won't you please join us for our Spring Open House... scheduled for Friday March 12th and Saturday March 13th from 10am - 5pm. Come have a look-see at all that is new!

How has everyone been.... I have felt very productive this week! I managed to spackle and touch up paint my office, in addition to getting my decorating theme nailed down for that room (not to mention cleaning up the extreme CLUTTERY mess!). Also, I moved a wall cabinet to a new location and a shutter became a wall hanging in my dining room... and I even started a Goodwill pile. The highlight was putting my new coverlet and duvet on my bed. Next project will be a new bathroom countertop if I figured my tax liability properly and we actually DO get a refund!

Oh ya... I also decorated my house for SPRING! Yeehaw... so nice to see some Springy things here and there. Before you know it we'll be putting out the seashells and flags. Aack! Have a wonderful week all!

2010-03-02T07:37:00.000-08:00

Well shoot.... I missed my Friday deadline last week! I think it was because I got in a great big ol' box from Family Heirloom Weavers and I got caught up in the moment. While a few things I was expecting were backordered, the box did contain my new duvet and my "Sea Star and Jewels" coverlet. Ooooh la la this coverlet is a beauty!! I raced home at 5pm to put it on my bed. Loves it!! Still some decorating to do in the master bedroom but these two pieces were a major part of the redo.

The pillowcases are from pbteen.com ... they are black with white polka dots! The pillow and bedskirt are Ralph Lauren "Cold Springs," a black and linen mattress ticking. Also, the coverlet reverses to linen background with black. I must comment, that white basket looks out of place in the photo... funny how the camera really highlights certain things! Maybe I will get out the black paint this weekend.

The UPS man was not very good to me last week! I think he stopped twice; once with a tiny box of not much to speak of and the other time with the blankets. He did show up yesterday with a huge supply of 2010 Country Sampler Home Tour Editions, which was great... but I had hoped for something even a teence more exciting?!?! Mr Fed Ex brought two ginormous boxes from Lt. Moses Willard lighting... a special order for a customer. I told Mr UPS he better not let me down on Tuesday. He didnt seem particularly amused.....

Well this is a short one since it's already Tuesday and I need to be back on schedule by the end of the week. Bye for now!

2010-02-19T15:35:00.000-08:00

WOW... Spring Fever is going to be rampant if this weather keeps up. Even though I have to be at the shop all day, it is still so nice to look outside and see glorious sunshine. It's probably 60 degrees out there, yet I just saw someone go by on a motorcycle wearing a T-SHIRT!!! Crazy people!!

The UPS man didn't have anything too exciting for me today (tissue and bags... yawn....) but the FedEx guy brought me some Amish barn stars. I have never ordered them before, but am trying out the 10" size... they are adorable! Perfect for the authentic barn star lover with a space problem! They will retail for $18.95 and I'll try to get them scattered around the shop tomorrow.

Have been keeping myself busy today with a painting project using some new paints I ordered at the Winter Market. So far it's, er, interesting! It's quite a process and I am anxious to see the end results. Since the day is almost done that probably wont happen until Monday. Also managed to do a little hand stitchin' today and whipped up some cute SEED bags. Will have to wait til Spring Open House next month to see those tho....

**UPDATE** Furniture is SOLD......So I just got a call from my BFF Laura and she asked me to post on my blog that she has reduced the already bargain price of her IKea Ektorp set to just $500! For everything!! OMG I wish I had an empty room somewhere! Here is a link to the IKea website / Ektorp page so you can see how wonderful a deal this is....http://www.ikea.com/us/en/catalog/products/20031656 This link shows the sofa slipcover... and as you can see it's $149 just for that ONE slipcover... so $500 for an entire set of furniture plus three complete SETS of slipcovers is an incredible deal!! See my previous post for more info.. it's the one from February 5th.

Well I shall close for now as part of "Blog Friday" is writing in my own blog, but the other part is reading some of my faves!! Happy Weekend all!

2010-02-12T13:32:00.000-08:00

New tin "Petticoat" lamp - USA made

New tin hanging taper holder - USA

Tall tin "hogscraper" electric candlestick - USA

Grapevine garland with tiny twig STARS attached!

Oval penny mat

Black crows

Tan primitive cat

Faux bay leaf wreath with "pip" berries

Does anyone else have the "wintertime blues?" I have just been struggling to get motivated to get ANYTHING done! Cant get interested in doing too much of anything... and there is so much that needs to be done. I hope this feeling doesnt last too long... I much prefer to feel productive and energized (well, who doesn't, right?)

The UPS man has brought me a few new things this week.. always so fun to see him coming with a big ol' box! So far it's just been the "tip of the iceberg"... most of the larger orders are still yet to arrive. I snapped a few pictures as I unboxed this week... as shown above. A lot of what I ordered at the show was "Made in America" product and I am tagging things as such as they come in.

I've been putting new goodies out as they arrive, except items that are spring-specific. Those will have to wait until the Spring Open House, March 12th and 13th. I hope I have enough product for Spring.. I always worry about that. Hope everyone has a wonderful weekend!

2010-02-05T11:59:00.000-08:00

Happy sunny Friday! We are all going to get a severe case of Spring Fever if this keeps up.

My BF Laura found out yesterday that her house has sold, and she and her hubby Mike will be able to buy the "farm of their dreams." I am so happy for her, but I will sure miss hearing her go "toot-toot" every morning as she's on her way to work. Although, the new place is just a mile up the road.

Anyhoo... Laura has a collection of IKea slipcovered furniture that she is wantin' to sell. She has a full size sofa, loveseat, chair and footstool in the "Ektorp" line, complete with a denim, a tan and a white (washable) slipcover for EACH piece! She is asking $1000 or best offer for the entire set... that's probably cheaper than the 3 sets of slipcovers alone. I can attest to how well these pieces go with "our style" of decorating because I have the loveseat in my living room. If you are in driving distance to us here in Oregon and are interested, please give me a call here at the shop and I will put you in touch with Laura.

Still patiently waiting for my new goodies to arrive! So far all that has come has been new plastic bags and a giant roll of tissue. B-O-R-I-N-G! As things start rolling in I'll put some pix up here. Have a wonderful weekend!

2010-01-29T15:58:00.000-08:00

Happy Friday! I think I have sufficiently recovered from my jet lag, however, the euphoria from my trip is still lingering!

I've spent today in the shop brainstorming "Spring." Always a hard season for me.. just not into the cutesy pastels and what I call "bunny-chicky" stuff. Next week I need to get out into the big world and do some research on what direction the shops are heading as we move into February. Of course I will be receiving new stock over the next 3 months.. lots of small wooden cupboards, new linens from Family Heirloom Weavers, new pillar candles and much much more.

Redid my master bedroom before I went on my trip and my guest bedroom was the unfortunate recipient of all the red things I stripped out of there. So I think I will start sorting through that mess tonight (but it's so much easier to just close the door!) A few things will go on EBay, some will make their way down to the shop and others will just go in the "decorating closet" for the next time I change something around. The main things I am waiting for to finish the redo are the homespun duvet I ordered at the PA show and I need to make a decision about lampshades.

Also on the agenda for this weekend is clearing out the dining room - that was my dumping ground for all the goodies I bought at the Cash & Carry... some are for the spring open house so they will need to find a new hiding place until we get closer to March. Come to think of it, once I get that guest bedroom cleaned up I can stash them in there. :>) Oh it never ends!!!

2010-01-22T13:09:00.000-08:00

Well I have to say... this has been a MOST overwhelming trip! I arrived in Pennsylvania at about 5:00pm on Weds and have been immersed in primitive country ever since. WOW. Here are a few highlights so far:

While waiting for my van shuttle, I bumped into Kathy and Sharon from my favorite store of all time... The Country Loft!! Who would have thought that an Oregonian would see people she knows from San Diego in Philadelphia! Of course I figured they would be coming to PA for the Market, I never dreamed we'd share a van ride from the airport! That was very cool....
I have filled an entire suitcase full of "Cash & Carry" items... oh if I only had a truck and trailer, I could have spent a mint!!
I met Irvin Hoover, of Irvin's Country Tinware!!
I have placed TONS of orders for wonderful new goodies.. many "Made in America"
I am heading over to The Cheesecake Factory for dinner! (or is it lunch... I am still on West Coast time...)

That's all I have to share right now... I am still trying to soak it all in and get my game plan for some ordering tomorrow. The show ends at 3pm tomorrow and I am transferring hotels right afterward, so I am across the street from the airport (currently 30 mins away). I'll probably blog more tomorrow evening!

2010-01-15T11:05:00.001-08:00

Well I am being true to my word about posting every Friday... although I can't think of a whole bunch to post about!

Very quiet in the shop today... January is usually the slowest month and this one's coming in true to form. That only make me wish I were home decorating something, anything! I was surfing around this morning and saw THE most gorgeous master bedroom... done in all cream, black and brown, with mocha colored walls and toile valances. Oh my I was ready to redo my whole room right then and there. My master is still the same as it was shown in the Country Sampler Fall issue... Pottery Barn "Margaret" collection in red. I do so love it but also love a change so my mental wheels are a-turnin!! My bed is matte black iron and I already have the cream colored quilt, so it wouldn't take too very much to change it over... some pillow cases, a new duvet, some different lampshades, toile drapes... hmmm......

I recently had my master bathroom painted and aside from one wall cabinet, I haven't put any of the decor back in. I'm just not sure what to do with it. I have a new PB shower curtain (Mum pattern.. cream background with shades of dark mustard, spring green and rusty-red orange). We have an awkward space between the two mirrors that I've never quite known what to do with. I have a couple ideas but hate to put holes in the wall in fresh paint until I know for sure.

My next post will be from Valley Forge, PA and I am sure all those primitive country goodies will put me in seventh heaven. Woo hoo!

New shop pics as promised

2010-01-09T13:44:00.000-08:00

Happy New Year!!

2010-01-09T13:24:00.000-08:00

Oh I just have to laugh at myself... I haven't posted to my blog since the middle of November. That is just so silly! We've all been busy but for Heaven's sake..

Well Happy New Year all! I hope you had a wonderful Holiday season and that 2010 finds you well. Don't we all remember the "crisis" of Y2K? Hard to believe that was TEN YEARS ago. We went to ridiculous lengths to prepare the workplace for the "big crash" that was sure to happen.. each supervisor had phone calling lists in case the "worst" happened, things were backed up and saved and re-saved... and then NOTHING! My boss and I became fond of saying "There's always Y3K to worry about next" :>)

In 10 short days I am Philadelphia bound! I am so excited to go to the big wholesale market I can hardly stand it! I have such wonderful visions of what I will find.. I am armed with my notebook to record ideas in each night. The show is partially "Cash and Carry" but the "Carry" part of that equation is a little challenging when you live thousands of miles away. The airlines new rules about luggage dont make it any easier. So I will likely do mostly ordering and we can look forward to new goodies in February.

Last Sunday my BF helped me re-do the entire shop and strip down all the Christmas. WOW that is a chore. We moved everything over to the clearance area and you can imagine how much cleaning was needed from all those glittery, flakey things... not to mention the metal "glitter" that invariably falls off the bottlebrush trees. The challenge for the rest of that day was moving things around to make it look different, and then filling in all the holes left by Christmas. I think we pulled it off! It is so refreshing to look at different displays.

I've snapped a few pictures... and promise to tell you all about the big show when I get back! Ta-Ta for now!!

New Country Sampler has arrived!

2009-11-13T17:08:00.000-08:00

Well, the December/January 2010 issue arrived yesterday, and it's clear that my BF Laura's 15 minutes of fame have begun! Her home is featured in this issue, and starts on page 26. Truly, I have to tell you... you can't begin to know how gorgeous her home is! From the minute you walk in, you feel right at home. She has the most gorgeous antiques and collections... every corner is filled with wonderful treasures. I wish there were about 20 more pictures in the magazine... you are missing out on so many wonderful nooks and crannies.

If you'd like to see more of Laura's wonderful home, go to the left side of this blog and find the "Home Tours" button... it will direct you to my webshots site.

I am so fortunate to have met my decorating soul mate.. and that we live on the same street in the same small town... wow - how great is that???

Halloween Spooktacular

2009-11-04T14:26:00.000-08:00

Our first ever Halloween Spooktacular was devilishly fun! we are looking forward to next year's event. Here are some pictures of our costumes.... me in full Survivor regalia including knee socks, stained tshirt and an actual Survivor "Buff" (I am a huge fan) and Bobbie looking very scary in her Morticia get-up.

Vacation... finally!

2009-10-24T15:13:00.000-07:00

This year was the first time EVER I have gone 9 months without any time off... so needless to say my hubby and I were both very ready for a vacation. Of course, San Diego was our destination of choice (as always). We enjoyed 5 blissful days of warm sunshine, wore flip flops and shorts, and ate at all our favorite resturants. We were able to spend a lot of quality time with our niece Lauren and nephew Anthony... we also visited Lee's grandparents and also managed to see a few dear friends. We love living here in Oregon but it sure is nice to spend time back home as well.

Now that we're home, I am trying to get into a Christmas-y mood. The open house is only a couple weeks away and the Christmas merchandise is arriving every day. I have spent hours examining my Christmas decorating idea books and I think I am starting to "come around." Although it's been hard to think of winter today, with the gorgeous fall sunshine outside. I suppose it will all come together... it always does!

All Moved In!!

2009-09-03T11:08:00.000-07:00

Well it just about broke me, but the big move is complete and we are open for business at the new location!! I am LOVING the light and bright quality of this space and am so happy with the wall colors. The new space is much larger than the old, and I was able to add quite a few furniture pieces and other goodies. If you want to check it out, go to my webshots site for more pictures:

www.webshots.com/user/buttermilkjunction

The shop is decorated for Fall... all the lovely oranges, yellows and browns... yummy! We are featuring several offerings by local crafters... homespun pumpkins, witches boots, grubby pumpkins, crows... oh my.

Still waiting for several shipments... more linens by Family Heirloom Weavers, woven dish towels by Weaver's Corner, etc. Check back often!!!

Ready for school!!

2009-08-07T11:47:00.000-07:00

Well since I am in "downsizing mode" with the shop's upcoming move, I am going to blog about my sweetie pie niece Olivia, rather than about decorating. Look at that face!! Olivia is the youngest of my sister's children... she just turned 5 last month, and is overly anxious to start Kindergarten in just a few weeks! Olivia is our little sweetheart... such a good girl... so eager to help and always has a smile on her face. We are so fortunate that we get to see "Miss O" very frequently. She loves to stay the night at our house in "her room" and play decorating with Auntie.

What a blessing all our nieces and nephews are!!

I Passed!!

2009-07-28T13:16:00.001-07:00

Eee Gads - is that me??? I guess that is what I look like after spending 3 days in the HOT, HOT sun on a HOT, HOT asphalt parking lot taking the motorcyle endorsement class! What you can't see is that my face is beet red... even SPF 55 wasn't enough this weekend. The picture was snapped at the end of the final FIVE HOUR session on the motorcycle, and the car thermostat said 102 when I got in at day's end. They require you to wear jeans, long sleeves and boots. I don't own a pair of boots so I had to borrow my hubby's - and three pairs of tube socks. Talk about adding insult to injury....aack!!

I have wanted to take this course for several years now... and finally did it. The class is sponsored by Team Oregon (http://www.teamoregon.orst.edu/) and is awesome! They provide the motorcycles and helmets.. you provide the endurance. I am proud to say I passed both the written and skills parts of the class with flying colors. I still have a lot to learn, but now I can ride my 1966 Lambretta with the confidence I didn't have before. I even enjoyed learning how to ride a "real" motorcycle!!

Country Sampler website

2009-07-22T15:57:00.000-07:00

I just logged on to the Country Sampler website and it has been updated... here is a link to the "extra" photos of our home:

http://sampler.com/issues/issue.aspx

Click on the number "3" above the picture (the photo shown is customer Linda Harris' living room). So fun! Enjoy!!

Fall 2009 Country Sampler arrived today!!

2009-07-15T14:09:00.000-07:00

Well I thought it was coming out soon... but I was still surprised when my UPS man dropped off a 10 pound box of Country Sampler magazines today!! Woo hoo!! The pictures of our home and the article came out great... I am so pleased and honored to be part of my favorite magazine! Of course now that I see everything there are some things I would have changed or done differently.. but all in all I am very happy (it's just the perfectionist in me....) Remember when you are looking at the pictures, they were taken the weekend after Easter and it was unseasonably hot (about 85 degrees) that afternoon. We are sweating to death on that scooter ride!!

Also in this issue is customer Linda and Joe Harris' reproduction saltbox home in Albany, OR. Wow... their home is so fantastic. Linda is a "purist" when it comes to Colonial style decor and she does it exceptionally well. In my home I like the more modern blend of old and new.. but to me, it's "all country" so it's all good. I love country decorating and I just cannot get enough!

I dont think the magazine has hit newsstands yet... even the CS website has not been updated with the new issue yet. This baby is literally hot off the press.

Our 15 minutes of fame is now official!! Thanks for being excited with me :>)

Sidewalk Sale Success!!

2009-06-30T13:50:00.000-07:00

I was so anxious to have the annual sidewalk sale behind me; now I just can't believe it's over! Wow... what a whirlwind weekend. Friday I hauled everything I'd priced from the backroom to the front of the shop, then Saturday morning we gathered at 6:30am to start setting up. With 4 people, we still only finished at 7:55... only 5 mins before the sale started!! I don't know if you can tell from the pictures, but the tables stretched from the alley on our south all the way past the police station on our north.

It was a busy day... lots of people came and we sold over 600 individual items... WOW!! It took no time to break it all down... but I vowed I was taking Sunday off and just enjoyed being home.

Today (Tuesday) I created a larger clearance area in the back of the shop.... and put out the clearance Fall goodies. I LOVE FALL!!! I'll put the Christmas clearance goodies out in a few weeks (it's still wayyy too early to look at Christmas!) There are still good things left!! Here are some pictures....

Painting the New Location

2009-06-10T14:29:00.000-07:00

Boy, you sure forget how much painting hurts! I think if we remembered how sore we get, we would never repaint anything. We spent a couple weekends readying the walls at the new shop location.... we have one more loooong wall to do over 4th of July weekend. I am loving the new colors! The main color is called "Rich Georgia Clay" but I have fondly nicknamed it "Yam." I also painted an accent wall "Brick Fleck." I've never painted a red wall before .. I love the way it turned out. That's the hubs with paint roller in hand.

Don't you love the way they name paint colors? It must be fun to be on some of those committees. One of the reds I loved was called "Red Longjohns." I wonder if there has ever been a color named "Dust Bunny" or "Soap Scum." Now that would be funny!

Can it be the end of May already?

2009-05-26T15:20:00.000-07:00

Wow.... where does the time go. I've heard people say that it gets worse as you get older... well there's something to look forward to, huh?

This Sunday, May 24th, was my niece's 20th birthday. Here is a picture of her with her 120 pound dog "Charger." Seems like just yesterday she was a tiny baby.... and now she's all grown up. Since my husband and I don't have children, our nieces and nephews are even more special to us. Lauren has brought immeasureable joy to our family! Happy birthday sweetie!!

Country Sampler Fall Issue!

2009-05-21T07:23:00.000-07:00

Sneak peek of the cover!!

As you might already know, my home was recently photographed for Country Sampler Magazine and was supposed to be featured in the Fall 2010 issue. However, I learned last week that we've been officially moved up to this year! The magazine will be published in mid-July, and I've ordered a couple dozen copies for the shop. If you don't already subscribe, won't you consider purchasing your issue at Buttermilk Junction? It will be priced at $4.95 - that's less than you would pay at the "big boxes."

Also featured in this issue will be customer Linda Harris' lovely Saltbox home. Her home is spectacular... and I have a hunch her Fall decor is sure to be a real treat!

New "NetBook!"

2009-05-14T15:18:00.000-07:00

Have any of you seen one of these cutie pie computers? Oh my gosh.. this is the neatest thing! It's made by Acer, and is top rated by both Consumer Reports and PCMagazine. I ordered it at costco.com... don't you love CostCo? (oh that's a post for another time!) Anyway, I took a picture of this little NetBook next to a basket of lemons so you could see how small it is. It weighs less than 3 pounds. I've been having a lot of fun using it while watching tv ....or if I just need to look something up or check my email I don't have to kick the hubs off our main computer. We do have a laptop as well, but it weighs a TON and it has a humongous screen and a noisy fan... nothing you'd want sitting on your lap while watching tv. See.... sometimes electronics CAN be fun!

Monday, Monday

2009-05-11T07:49:00.000-07:00

I LOVE MONDAYS!! It's truly my "day off" from the shop and usually, most of my housework has already been done the day before. Most of the time it's my run-around day... today is not too different. My neighbor (who also happens to have built our home!) is taking me to a local remodel he is working on where apparently there's some "good junk" available for the taking.... can't wait to see what that's all about. Then I have to meet the UPS man at my shop around 10am as he is delivering my new Acer Netbook this morning! Can't wait to try that baby out!! After that, I do have some errands to run and I am sure the day will fly by as usual.

I did manage to snap a few pictures this weekend of the house... some updates and changes I've done since the Country Sampler photo shoot. They asked me not to post pictures of the Fall decor (even though I did take a bunch...) but I wanted to post some of the changes I've made. The next two projects at home are to repaint our master bath (sooo not looking forward to that) and to repaint and redo all the wall decor in our office. I never take pictures in there because it gets so messy... hoping to change that sometime this summer. ANYHOO.... I posted a new album on my WEBSHOTS site... please locate the link on the left side of the blog and you'll go right to it.

Hope your Mother's Day was wonderful! We spent the morning with Lee's mom and the evening with my folks. Very simple and relaxing and just the way we like it :>)

~C

The Country Sampler Experience

2009-04-23T08:26:00.000-07:00

I just can't believe it's all over!! Phew... what a whirlwind! The photographers (Donna and Philip... shown in the picture at the end of a very long day... and calling D&P for the rest of this post....) arrived at my BF Laura's house Friday night. We made introductions and then Laura gave them the grand tour. They left all their SCADS of equipment in her living room so they would have less to set up the next day. We went out to dinner and had a wonderful time getting to know them. They have shot for Architectural Digest and many other prestigious magazines. They've led very exciting lives.

They came back to Laura's house at 8:30 Saturday morning and were there all day. Laura said D&P moved many, many things and re-arranged things so they were pleasing to the camera. About 6pm D&P brought their equipment down to my place (a mere 7 houses away) and boy did that make things seem a whole lot smaller in the house!!!! These folks do not travel lightly - tripods, computers, cameras, cables, 5 bags of fresh fruit and 2 big buckets of fresh flowers, great big Rubbermaid tubs of props, etc. They toured my house and then went on their way.

D&P arrived for the shoot at 830 Sunday morning and let me tell you... it was exhausting!!! Their minivan did not leave my driveway until 8pm. The only room in my house they didn't shoot (besides the master bathroom) was my office, which I had already piled all my everyday junk in (big box of shoes from by the front door, my coffee maker, toaster, knife block, all my husband's paperwork and junk from "his" baskets, etc.) So by the time all their things were piled in there it was very distressing!! I can see that if you were a person who couldn't handle clutter or your house being turned upside down, it would be very challenging. D&P did say they had a photo shoot where the homeowner had to leave.. she couldn't handle the stress!

The Editor in Chief told D&P that there is a 75% chance that the pictures/story (which hasn't been done yet) will run in this year's Aug/Sept issue... she is pushing to have it ready. How cool would that be???? D&P have already emailed the Editor the rough/unretouched pictures for her to look at. Supposedly there will be a decision in the next 2 weeks... I promise to keep you posted!!!

It's truly surreal to see your home through their fancy lenses!!! It was the most exciting thing that's ever happened to me and I still can't believe it came to fruition. D&P told us several times that literally thousands of people submit their houses for consideration and a very, very few are ever chosen to be published. What an honor.

However, I am SICK TO DEATH of pumpkins!! I finally got it all put away last night. I don't even want to hear the words Fall, Autumn, Harvest!!

Country Sampler is coming!!

2009-04-14T08:45:00.000-07:00

On Sunday April 19th, Country Sampler magazine photographers Donna Pizzi and Philip Clayton Thomas will be coming to Junction City to photograph my home and my best girlfriend's home! We've been talking about this for months and just set the date several weeks ago.... it is so exciting! I truly feel so honored.

The really interesting part is that our home will be featured in the August/September 2010 issue, so Fall is in the air over here!! The house is adorned with pumpkins, Indian corn, spooky cats, Fall signs and the like... and it's starting to look normal! (now I know I am in trouble...) When I put the Fall goodies out on the porch I know the neighbors will really be talking.

The photographers will arrive on Friday to introduce themselves and have a look at our homes. Saturday April 18th they will spend the day at Laura's spectacular home, which is only 7 houses away from us on the same street. She will be in the December/January 2010 issue, so her house has more of a winter theme right now. Then they will come on Sunday to shoot ours. Sometime later this Spring, Donna and Philip will return to take pictures of our friend Dee's glorious home! She will be the first to be featured, in the April/May 2010 issue.

I'll do another post right after the excitement is over. Happy Halloween everyone! :>)

Christmas in the Country

2008-11-22T07:46:00.000-08:00

Oh my goodness... I am so behind on my blog posts! I just can't believe I am only getting to this an average of only once a month. Our Christmas Open House, "Christmas in the Country" was held earlier this month. I love this time of year and how very full the shop is! I am especially pleased with the large Christmas tree in the window.... would love to cart that baby home and plunk it right down in my living room! Some gift ideas for this year: NEW Reed Diffusers in Buttered Maple Syrup and French Vanilla, inexpensive "Gifts to Go" section, NEW seasonal scents in 26oz. jar candles, NEW clove scented battery candle lights, and as always, a full assortment of Irvin's punched tin wax melters in three sizes.

Do come by and shop our Christmas goodies when you have the chance and enjoy the sights and sounds of a country Christmas. Hope to see you soon!

Junction City Harvest Gathering & Quilt Walk

2008-10-26T08:29:00.000-07:00

Earlier this month, we participated in the first ever JC Harvest Gathering & Quilt Walk! Quilters from all over our area submitted their wonderful creations and they were displayed at area businesses and at the Historical Society as well as the JC Library. Customers Norma Templeton and Carol Adams both had quilts on display at Buttermilk Junction. While I was out of town that weekend, it sure was fun readying the shop for the event. Above are their amazing quilts....... and trust me, the pictures do not do them justice.

We are definitely planning on making this an annual event!

Fall is here!

2008-09-17T07:20:00.000-07:00

I cannot believe it's been over a month since I posted something... that is awful!

Well, it's finally Fall at Buttermilk Junction! Today is the official Open House and the shop is brimming with cozy Fall and fun Halloween goodies to decorate your home! Lots of wonderful scents as well, including my new favorite, Buttered Maple Syrup jar candles. Yummmm.....

I updated my "webshots" with pictures of the shop, as well as posting pictures of my Fall decor at home ... take a look when you have time.

Happy Fall Ya'll!

Fall Preview

2008-08-06T12:39:00.000-07:00

Can you believe.... time for a Fall Preview already!?! This week is the Scandinavian Festival here in Junction City, so I thought it would be a good opportunity to test the waters, as they say, with a few Fall products. I even managed to make a few of them myself - woo hoo! I've set out the 2009 calendars that I've received so far... more designs are coming.

If you're brave enough to come out to see us during the Festival, we're planning to stay open late and we'll even be open on Sunday 8/10!

WEBSITE IS UP AND RUNNING!

2008-06-21T14:08:00.000-07:00

Phew.... finally! It was a lot of work, but it's done. You can now visit us at www.buttermilkjunction.com and shop online! I have included all our wonderful Amish Barn Stars, Irvin's Wax Melters, candles, framed samplers - just about everything I carry in the shop!

Do you know someone who would like to shop with us, but lives out of the area? Share our website address with them!

Annual Sidewalk Sale

2008-06-19T15:42:00.000-07:00

Just a quick note to announce a change to our 3rd Annual Sidewalk Sale. Since we don't have a luxurious parking lot like we did at the old location, I've decided to change the sale to One Day Only. With the Junction City Police Department and Jail right next door, I didn't want to do anything that might cause our fair city alarm! Ha ha!

Please visit us on Saturday, June 28th (the last Saturday in June!) from 8am til 5pm for a great sale. I've been marking tons of things at 50% off or more... I really do have a lot of great things to put out, so you don't want to miss it.

Hope to see you then!

New at the Shop!

2008-06-04T09:04:00.000-07:00

I had such a fun weekend redecorating the shop and adding all kinds of new goodies.... what a treat! Above is a picture of the Americana display at the front of the shop, and above that a picture of the gorgeous new "Made in the USA" woven table squares, throws, and blankets that just came yesterday (of course, one day after I finished all the re-doin'!)

If you click on the link to your left, called "Come Tour Our Home" you will be directed to WebShots, where I've posted all the pictures I took of the shop. You'll find new star-stamped pottery, new bedding on the little twin bed, the "cinnamon pantry jars" I made, new star shaped silicone lightbulbs, etc. etc. Be sure to check it out! Come see us when you can!

Website in the works!

2008-05-29T08:46:00.000-07:00

Over the next several weeks, I'll be fine tuning a real, honest-to-goodness website for the shop! It will allow for online shopping, as well as give you first glimpses of new products as they arrive. While I plan to spend all weekend redecorating the shop and putting out all the new goodies, I still hope to have the website up and running for commerce sometime in mid-June.

The website address will be www.buttermilkjunction.com. Stay tuned!

Shop Updates

2008-05-21T12:02:00.001-07:00

Lots going on at the shop! Here are a few items of note:

*All sheep figurines and bottlebrush wreaths have been marked down to 50% off!

*Our next First Friday is June 6th - starting at 5pm, we'll have an unadvertised sale, a sweet treat, and be open til 7pm along with other downtown businesses

*The week of June 10th will be our annual Flag Day sale

*Our annual Sidewalk Sale is scheduled to start on June 26th and it'll be a good one!

We have new items coming in by the truckload! Come see us in June for lots of great things to decorate your home for the summer!

New at the shop... and more soon!

2008-05-13T13:24:00.000-07:00

I can't believe I've not made any posts since April. Oh my goodness - I have no excuse! Except that maybe a few days of sunshine got to me? If it's going to be 90 degrees this week things better change real soon, because it looks like 40 and rain to me....

I got a few new things in at the shop and created a display with them (see picture). I've also just placed "mega-orders" for new things and to restock the Irvin's wax melters, etc. Look for new summer-y things to come in sometime next month. And everyone knows what's next.... FALL!!! Aack!

Have a great week!

Virtual home tour!

2008-04-20T16:03:00.000-07:00

This week, one of my customers told me that she posted pictures of her home on a site called "Webshots." Welllll.... wouldn't you know..... I just had to do mine too! What fun! I have it all set up in a link right here on the blog. Just look right under the picture of the shop, there's a link to my Webshots site. Click that link and you'll go right to my albums.

Not only do I have pictures of my home, but I also created an album with pictures and descriptions of a few new things I just got in at the shop. Check it out!

And just a quick note - starting this week, all of the lamb figurines and bottlebrush wreaths (ivory and pink) at the shop are marked 25% off.

Hope to see you soon!

Just in!

2008-04-11T18:38:00.001-07:00

Just in at the shop -

Completely restocked on the multi-colored braided round and square trivets, as well as the round coasters
Homespun table runners in checks (mustard, navy, barn red, black) as well as ticking stripes
New! Candle rings / wreaths with twiggy pieces, red and cream berries and rusty stars - great around the base of a taper or pillar, or even on the wall... multiple sizes available!

Sorry I don't have any pictures... of all days to forget the camera! I'm off to sunny San Diego tomorrow.. so more blogging next week!

TV Commercial in the works

2008-04-10T15:37:00.000-07:00

Can you believe it? We're going to be on TV! This morning I met the film crew at the shop for my "big debut." Ha ha! This from the person who never took drama in school, never performed in a play, can't keep a straight face, etc. It was such a fun experience though. Last weekend, my husband Lee and I rearranged the back 1/3 of the shop and I think the timing was perfect for the commercial. He also was able to put some Wall Wisdom up by the barn stars, which made for a nice shoot. I say "nice shoot" like I know what I'm talking about!

They "made" me (ok, they asked me to) be in the commercial, which was a very interesting experience. I hope it doesn't look corny! And, I hope they used the skinny lens on the camera! It will be on CBS - KVAL in the next couple of weeks... can't wait to see the finished product.

Gorgeous!

2008-03-26T18:00:00.000-07:00

I was looking through a magazine, and noticed a sign that read "Beloved." I thought wait a minute - that would make an excellent Wall Wisdom! And I knew just the place for it... right over my bed. My husband took the idea from concept to installation in 24 hours (this is some kind of a record!) And here is the finished product. The font is "Blackadder" and it's about 34" long. Doesn't that look gorgeous? Let us create something for you!

Easter items on sale

2008-03-25T13:34:00.000-07:00

Can you believe Easter is already behind us? Goodness! Starting Wednesday 3/26, all Easter-specific items will be 50% off. Hurry in for best selection!

Wall Wisdom - NEW!

2008-03-16T17:26:00.000-07:00

Check this out! We are now offering Wall Wisdom - a fully customizable, pressure-sensitive vinyl that applies directly to your walls. Haven't been able to find just the right sign? Or maybe you have a difficult-to-fill area in your home.... Wall Wisdom is for you! Come by the shop and take a look. We can give you a quote within 2 business days and you could be looking at your new wall graphics within a week's time!

Spring is here!

2008-03-16T16:46:00.000-07:00

Well, Spring weather is here at least! This is the time of year when my husband and I both are trying to remember why we chose Oregon as our current home! Just kidding - we do love it here.... it's just tough to know how to dress for these crazy weather days.

The Spring Open House (held on 3/12) went very well. It sure was fun to fluff up the shop for Spring, even though that usually means adding some pastels into the mix (not my favorite primitive accent color...) Scroll down below to find a few pictures of some of the Spring goodies at the shop.

Have a wonderful week! ~Christina Z

Welcome to the new Butter-blog!

2008-02-24T13:01:00.000-08:00

Thank you for visiting our new website! I think this will be a great way to share coming events, show new products, and maybe even share a few decorating ideas. I am really excited about it!

Stay tuned for Buttermilk Junction happenings and other ramblings.... and be sure to check back frequently.