The Painted Porch

Last week, my co-workers and I had the opportunity to run up to Minneapolis with our sister program. We got to see Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat at the Chanhassen Dinner Theatre. The show was good, but interesting. On our way home the next morning, we stopped at the Medford Outlet Center for about an hour or so. I might have picked up some cute items for the newest babe of the family.

But across the way, this store was calling my name.

When I opened the door and walked in, I just stopped. I had to take it all in. It was amazing. I think my heart even started beating a little faster. So, after my little pause, I began walking around the store, just looking at all there was. When the kind lady asked me if I needed any help or was looking for something certain, I told her I'd take one of everything. She agreed that there is so much great stuff. (She's not the one that owns the store or finds the stuff....she just works there.) I did walk out of there with a couple of items and many more ideas. The best thing.....she let me take pictures!

So if anyone is needing a reason for a roadtrip or will be driving on I-35 anytime soon, plan on stopping by The Painted Porch and spending some time there. If you need someone to go with you, I'd be happy to assist! Why can't there be stores like this where I live? Does anyone have ideas of stores in the Ames area that are similar to this? If so, please let me know.

Here are some of the pictures I took at the store. Maybe they will get your decorating/creative juices flowing. Or maybe just a need for a quick road trip! :)

I have been wanting a cute bench for years. Here were some cute ones...which I did not get. I thought maybe some day I'd attempt to make them.