Whenever I read through magazines I am in awe of antique fair finds, yet I always seem to come up empty handed when I go. There is a monthly fair near my in-laws cottage in Centerville, Michigan, and I used to go often, and sometimes would drag home the occasional piece of McCoy pottery. I always wondered-- how do these people find such treasures? Well, this weekend I attended the Ann Arbor Antique fair for the first time since we moved to the area, and now I know what a really great antique fair is all about. Yes, it is expensive, but the dealers there are top quality, and have well-edited collections. Many booths are somewhat thematic, and are clearly gearing their wares towards someone who wants really special pieces, but may not have the time to scour the earth for those items at bargain prices. I believe that you are truly getting what you pay for-- the item, as well as the service of the person who found it for you.

We went on Saturday, which was a gorgeous spring morning, sunny but a little chilly. Scott was kind enough to brave the crowds with Elliot and the stroller, while I darted in and out of the booths. I was particularly taken with a few booths in the first tent that had buttons, beads, baubles, ribbons, pin cushions, you name it. Eye candy for the craftsperson. I didn't even buy anything there because there was simply too much to take in.

I came away with a few small treasures...items that spoke to me...a small house with a punched window on each side and a little front door (what were you for little house?). I love the way the maker drew all of the shingles in pencil. It is probably around 10 x 8 x 8, but it has a lot of presence. I also found a vintage eye chart, some cute colored spools (LOVE stripes and polka dots) that I think I'll frame or hang together, and a card of bakelite buttons.

Next time I may try it out sans husband and child, and with a hat and sunglasses.

Here is a detail shot of the roof.