Holidays are Coming

We've entered November and winter has made an appearance here in the past few days.  Flurries and freezing temperatures have taken the beautiful fall foliage of Central Pennsylvania and turned it a dreary brown.  It's time to nestle in and warm up your home for the holidays and family gatherings.

We're here to help you find the right gift for friend or family, the right accessory to accent your home or just help you with some ideas on how to arrange or manage your own collections.  Looking for a specific piece...we'll help you find either a traditional piece or perhaps something you can use for that "special" space that might be a little untraditional.  Open from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. every day, you'll be glad you visited.

Spring is on it's way!!!

If we are to believe (and all Pennsylvanians do) Phil has predicted that spring is right around the corner.  We were all spoiled just a little bit last winter when the weather was so mild.  I'm sure everyone is relieved that a more favorable and higher temperature is on it's way to a location near them.

Things are warming up at the Olde Barn Centre as well.  We've cleared out the holiday decorations (except the ones for sale) and started to decorate with a flair for spring and summer entertaining.  It's never too early to start thinking about those warm nights on the porch or around the barbeque with family and friends.  A trend for decorating one's outdoor space has been gaining momentum in the past few years with everyone 'stay-cationing' at home.  Spell check claims I just made that word up but I've seen it written elsewhere so I'm using it. 

Whether it's wicker or wood, swings or rockers, terra cotta or pottery, old or really old...we probably have it at the Olde Barn Centre.  I'm pleased to report we have something to interest everyone at the Olde Barn Centre.  Even if you're not an outdoor enthusiast, I'm sure you'll find something you didn't know you really wanted.  Open everyday of the week from 10 am to 5 pm, please stop by and see us.  And if Punxsutawney Phil predicted wrong...check the local school listings for East Lycoming and Muncy.  If the schools are closed or on a delay for snow closings...please call to see if we are open 570-546-7493.  Now let's make way for the Sun!!!

Another Year Winding Down

As 2012 comes to a close, all of us at the Olde Barn Centre want to wish you and your family a joyous holiday season.  If you have visited us in the past...we hope you will stop in again in 2013.  If you have never been to the barn...we hope you'll find the time to stop in and see the treasures we have to offer.  This year we celebrated our 20th anniversary of being open and look forward to another treasure filled and prosperous year to come in 2013.

HERE TODAY, GONE TOMORROW...NOT EXACTLY

Like bell bottom jeans and wide ties in fashion, there are universal items we use in our lives that wax and wane with popularity.  Some antique professionals believe today's buying trends are based on the content of the current magazines and what people see on television.  I admit I think that's part of the reason.  I also think it has to do with need.

We set up housekeeping with the essentials we need and fill in the blanks as we go along.  Our parents and their parents before them did the same thing.  So I believe it's this cycle of "family" that spurns the need to have certain "remembered" possessions and if they aren't handed down then we set out looking for them.

Some find when they set up housekeeping with the new items they've purchased or been gifted, those items break or wear out in 2, 5 or 10 years.  Items grandma or grandpa used are still around so in essence we are able to recycle and reuse those tried and treasured items.  I use a little mixture of both the old and new in my daily life and I think I'm happier for it.  It's mostly positive reinforcement to me to use the "tried and treasured" items.

An article in the May, 2011 edition of Country Living magazine remarks "It used to be you could tell when a woman got married by the Pyrex in her kitchen."  Said quote was made by Barbara Mauzy, author of Pyrex: The Unauthorized Collector's Guide.  The Corning Company introduced Pyrex in 1915 and advertised  it as the first glass cookware able to withstand extreme temperature shifts stating "it could take a meatloaf straight from the freezer to a 350-degree oven."  Solid colors were introduced in 1947 with patterns to follow seven years later.

With the multiple antique dealers we have here at the Olde Barn Centre, you'll find various shapes, sizes and colors in the Pyrex line.  Pyrex and other items from the Corning family are items I would consider "tried and treasured".  And completely affordable to those just starting out on their adventure of collecting.

The Olde Barn Centre is open every day from 10 am to 5 pm.  Now that the summer is winding down, if you haven't already maybe it's time to visit the Olde Barn Centre.

Preview of Summer

I am continually humbled by the people who can post on their blogs everyday.  Where do they find the time and inspiration???  I do think about topics or pictures I'd like to add ... and then more than a few days will pass and I will second guess the information or change my mind entirely.  I apologize if this prevents you from wanting to follow along.  I will try to stay more current with local happenings and pictures of what we have to offer at the Olde Barn Centre.

The weather has certainly improved.  Flowers are in bloom everywhere.  Some blooming earlier than they should since I saw a rose bush in bloom and it's only the first week of May.  For the spring and summer season we recently received a load of beautiful Adirondack gliders.  We've had so many compliments on them you just must try one when you visit us.  

We have many items such as furniture, decorator treasures and entertaining items all for your day-to-day or entertaining pleasure in your home for the summer.  Need a wagon or wheelbarrow to fill with flowers for your yard...we have it.  Need champagne flutes for the intended bride and groom...we have it.  Wicker furniture for your sunroom or porch...we have it.  We have the mixing bowls, serving bowls and deviled egg dishes for all your reunions and family picnics.  Stop by the Olde Barn Centre and see how we can help you make your summer magical and memorable.

Spring or Summer?

If you're a resident of central Pennsylvania, the last two weeks sure seemed like a prelude to summer.  Warm days, sunshine and dandelions cropping up everywhere.   Then we were awakened to the fact that it still is March and the weather has turned back to a colder, windier and noticeably wetter spring.

Spring also brings antique shows, auctions and increased traffic at antique shops and flea markets.  People are out and about looking to shake off the winter blues and stale indoor air.  Here at the barn, dealers are stocking their booths with merchandise to furnish, accessorize and decorate your home with that new fresh look.

Plus with the Easter holiday fast approaching, we have plenty of items you can use in entertaining your family during that holiday visit and meal.  Being a family owned and operated business, Easter Sunday is one of only the four major holidays we are closed.  From all of us here at the barn, we wish you and your family a joyous Easter holiday season.

Valentine's Day

We've been getting calls daily from people trying to find something specific for their sweetheart.  I can't stress enough that in this business, if your sweetheart saw it 3 months ago...it's probably long gone.  Unfortunately that's the nature of our business.  Well any business that deals in items that are rare and hard to come by usually don't have a back room full of the stuff.

There are highly collectible items you may find in every antique store you visit.  Depression glass comes to mind when I mentioned that last sentence.  Ironically certain items fall in and out of favor just like bell bottom jeans and wide ties.  Sometimes we'll have alot of something and sometimes not so much.  So if you see it and you like it but aren't sure ... take some time to decide if it's the right color, size or useful enough to bring home with you.  We have brochures at the desk and in our front lobby with our telephone number on it and you can call us to find out if it's still in the building.  Description is key, we need to know exactly what it is, the price and dealer code if you can remember it and where in the building you were when you saw it.  Sometimes items get moved around from booth to booth, upstairs to down or possibly if it hasn't been sold the dealer took it out to make room for new old merchandise.

The item pictured is a wonderfully built bar from reclaimed lumber.  It truly is a one of kind piece.

Thanks for reading and don't forget to stop by if you're in the area.  Open daily, seven days a week, yes that includes Sunday (we get asked that alot) from 10:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.  Wishing for warmer weather.

So we're on the count down to spring here in Central Pennsylvania.  Although it's not quite cold enough for snow, we'd sure be getting alot of it because we are having a ton of rain again.  Traffic has been brisk as people go out and enjoy the balmy winter.

Dealers are daily rearranging and restocking with new nice things for your home or gifts you might choose for friends.  Hoping to make a list of spring time happenings in the area soon.  Stay posted.  And for your viewing pleasure...yellow my favorite thing about spring are daffodils and lilacs.  Enjoy.

SUNSHINE

It's definitely sunny here in Central Pennsylvania.  Although once you step outside you realize all that bright light is deceiving because it's really only 28 degrees here.  We're still seeing a brisk traffic even with the frigid temperatures.  Yes we are in a barn but we do enjoy the comforts of heat in the winter and air conditioning in the summer.  And to add to your comfort, we serve complimentary hot coffee every day.

So what is this piece I've pictured today.  A definite conversation starter...it's a record player cabinet.  It has a classic look as well as an interesting Asian feel.  As a converted blanket chest, it will hold everything you need to stay warm on these cold winter nights.  Happy January.

74 Days until Spring

If I've calculated the days correctly.  So far no snow here in Central Pennsylvania but now I've probably jinxed it.  I'm sure we'll have some snow days here at some point.  With that in mind, if you are traveling a distance to come to visit us...and if the weather is inclement you might wish to call beforehand to make sure we are open.  570-546-7493.  If you live locally, generally we don't close due to snow unless the local schools have cancelled.  But again, it's always good to call first.

Our dealers are busy filling their booths with new "old" merchandise.  Our offerings span from the smallest hat pin to the largest dining room table with assorted sizes and treasures in between.  One of the latest trends in collecting seems to be character glasses.  Whether you display them or use them, we have quite a few to choose from.

So if you're done with the mall shopping for the holidays and would like to find a little treasure for yourself...stop by.  We're open every day (weather permitting this time of year) seven days a week from 10 to 5.  I think you'll be glad you did.  Thinking warm (weather) thoughts and looking forward to your visit.

MERRY CHRISTMAS

The Olde Barn Centre staff and dealers wish you and your families the warmest of Christmas holidays and a Happy New Year.

Most Wonderful Time of the Year

While temperatures here in Central Pennsylvania aren't quit cold enough for snow, it is time in our area for residents to reflect on what the next few months will bring.  Will we get alot of snow or will it be a mild winter?  Only time will tell.

Antiques evolve with time just like people.  They mature and grow in exposure to situations in our daily lives.  A simple piece of furniture from your grandparent's childhood could find itself in your home as a treasured piece of the past.  Pick up any home magazine these days and you will find all of them feature layouts praising the combination of vintage antiques with today's traditional furnishings.

Furnishings might not be what you have in mind with the upcoming holiday season.  My Christmas gift list has more toys on it than 'useful' gifts.  But we do have quite a selection of housewares, decorations, furnishings and entertainment pieces if that's what you're shopping for.

Shop in comfort and visit us at the Olde Barn Centre.  We're open 10 am to 5 pm, seven days a week with the coffee always on.  We will be closed Thursday, November 24th for our employees to observe the Thanksgiving holiday with their family and friends.  Hope to see you soon.

New Beginnings

Antiques aren't usually considered or associated with new or the beginning of anything.  When someone hears the word antique visuals that come to mind are something old, rusty, worn and definitely used.  But as in life, sometimes we have to start fresh.  Stepping into an antique shop can be a wonderful way to furnish a new house,  enhance an addition or just mix things up a bit in a room to make it more enjoyable.

As we enter the fall season and move into the winter months, many holidays and family gatherings will be shared and enjoyed.  Do you desire a new set of mixing bowls?  A table to seat all your family and dearest friends?  Or some whimsical decorations to brighten your decor?  At the Olde Barn Centre, we have gifts and goodies to satisfy even the most discriminating tastes when it comes to collecting and decorating.

Whether your preparing your first Thanksgiving dinner and need that gigantic turkey platter or looking to furnish the corner of relaxation in your home in preparation for those cold winter nights, come browse the Olde Barn Centre and see if you don't find something "new" to you.  Happy Halloween from the Olde Barn Centre.

Happenings in the Area

I'd like to add some events going on in the area if you are traveling in the region.

August 13 & 14  41st Annual Arts and Crafts Festival, Eagles Mere, PA  fine artists and craftsman display their work on the village green  9-5  $5 admission  for more info:  http://www.visithistoriceaglesmere.com/

August 18-20  Sunbury River Festival  info: http://www.sunburyriverfestival.com/

August 26-28  Middlecreek Valley Antique Association's 15th Annual Fall Antique Show  info: http://mvaapa.org/

August 27th   40th Annual New Berlin Day  info:  http://www.newberlinpa.com/

September 3  29th Labor Day Market, Eagles Mere, PA  antique vendors display their merchandise on the village green.  9-5 $5 admission

September 8-11  Nittany Antique Machinery Show and Penn's Cave Festival  info:  http://www.nittanyantique.org/

September 16-18  Pennsylvania Bowhunters Festival, Sullivan County Fairgrounds, Forksville, PA  info: http://pabowhunters.com/

October 8 & 9  31st Sullivan County Fall Festival, Sullivan County Fairgrounds, Forksville, PA

Heat, Rain, More Heat and More Rain

Antiques are like summer weather, sort of.  Sometimes it's hot and humid.  It can also be cool and mild.  Antiques and collectibles range in value from high to low and back to high depending on the active interest in them.  Certain items like traditional furniture and signed pottery usually retain their value through the years but depression glassware, kitchenware and holiday collectibles seem to float in and out of favor depending on what's on the cover of the current decorator magazines.

At the Olde Barn Centre we offer a broad range of antiques and collectibles.  Items that range from the 1800's right into collectibles from yesterday.  We've got it covered whether it's in House Beautiful, Martha Stewart or Antiques Journal.

August 13th, Saturday, you can find Eagles Mere abuzz with the annual Craft Festival.
August 26th & 27th, Friday 5:30 pm-9 pm, Saturday 9 am-4 pm, 37th annual Antiques Show at Geringer Hall, Muncy

Lazy Days of Summer

First Sunday Celebration Pictures

Happy Memorial Day

Let me start by saying on behalf of everyone here at the Olde Barn Centre, we thank all those men and women who serve our country, at home and abroad.  We are truly home of the free because of the brave.  THANK YOU.

Final preparations are being made for our June First Sunday Market and hope you will stop by.  Just a reminder we open at 8 a.m. for this event only but the shop will remain open until 5 p.m.  I shouldn't have requested the heat in my last post because someone sure turned up the thermostat.  We went straight from 40 and rainy to 80, muggy and more rain.  Weather is something everyone has an opinion on.  It's too much for some and not enough for others.  From handmade quilts and comforters to Adirondack rocking chairs for star gazing....whether you like it cold or hot, inside or out we have some amazing finds for you.

Please enjoy your holiday weekend with family and friends from everyone at the Olde Barn Centre.

Things Are Heating Up

Or so they should be considering we're in the month of May.  April certainly provided us with the showers and flowers are blooming all over Central Pennsylvania, that's for sure.  But Mother Nature hasn't seen fit to provide us with more than a few sunny hours on any given day.

All sorts of summer antiques are finding their way into the booths at the Olde Barn Centre.  We have some great summer furniture, wagons, wheelbarrows and garden tools.  Pick up a floral tablecloth, some pretty ice tea glasses and invite friends over to sit on the porch to visit.  We have a new batch of Amish rockers on the porch that just arrived two weeks ago.  These rockers are new (not antiques) but are a great addition to any home for either inside or out.  They get rave reviews and are only available certain times of the year.

I'd like to announce our First Sunday Markets are scheduled for 2011.  The first First Sunday will be June 5th, 2011 and then again on August 7, 2011.  We invite outside dealers to set up their wares and open at 8 am to the public.  The outside market is open from 8 am to 12 noon but the Olde Barn Centre will be open until 5 pm, our regular closing time.  We're hoping for a good turn out and great weather.  Stop by if you can.

Happy Easter

I had the pleasure of being able to travel to Washington DC for the Cherry Blossom Festival recently and it truly was a magical place.  History is all around us and it's nice to know you don't have to travel too far to experience it.  We all have personal possessions in our lives that may conjure up memories of a more personal nature.  Our lives are filled with stories and events that are as significant to us as the monuments in Washington DC.  

At the Olde Barn Centre, we are brimming with treasures for your home.  Some old enough to have their own personal history like the Allegheny House bar featured in the last post.  Some new just waiting for you to take them home so you can make them part of your family history.  Stop by and take a walk down memory lane and go home with some future memories of your own.

I'm happy to report we will be having our 1st Sunday Markets again this year.  Sunday, June 5th will be the first and hopefully we won't have the issues with the weather we did last year.  I know we had reports of hail in Montoursville that morning but not a drop of moisture to be seen at the Barn.  Weather in the "Valley of the Susquehanna" needs it's own meteorologist, trust me.  Anyway, our 1st Sunday Market, June 5th, 2011 will run from 8 a.m. until 12 noon and currently we have 10 vendors returning from last years' markets.  These vendors will have their displays set up in the parking lot outside the Barn and their items range from old tools, furniture, glassware, linens, etc. to and including plants, herbs, baskets and other craft items.  Spaces are available just contact us at 570-546-7493.

The Olde Barn Centre is open daily from 10 a.m. until 5 p.m.; however on Sunday, June 5th we will open the building at 8 a.m. to coincide with the Market.  Join us if you can.  As a final note, we will be closed Easter Sunday to celebrate with our families and friends.  Easter is one of the 4 scheduled closings of the Olde Barn Centre.

Happy St. Patrick's Day

The weather here has really been a roller coaster ride.  One day snow, next day sun, two days of constant rain and we're back to cold again.  Weather truly does dictate what we are able to accomplish in our busy lives.  Our dealers have been busy spring cleaning and bringing in 'summer-y' collectibles and furniture.  One of the new additions to the second floor is a magnificent piece of restoration which I have included a picture of.   This piece comes to us from a local landmark bar and restaurant that has been closed for quite a few years.  Maybe you recognize it.  It is truly a must see.

The Bloomsburg Antique Show did reschedule due to the flooding at the Bloomsburg Fairgrounds.  So if you thought you missed it, you didn't.  It's now scheduled for Saturday and Sunday, March 26th and 27th.  We have some complimentary discount admission cards at our front desk if you would like to stop by and pick them up.  Happy St. Patrick's Day.