My name is Jen, and I've been buying and selling antiques and vintage online and at local markets for 28 years, with the most recent addition to the mix at Monticello Antique Marketplace in Portland, Oregon. I especially enjoy time worn things with patina and character, honest wear and charm. Have eyes to see the beauty in the simple, so it doesn't take much to make this girl happy.

Over the years I've added to my collection by lots of good old fashioned DIY and junkin'. I love the thrill of the hunt, especially when I have good friends to share it with. My mom taught me at a young age the value of thrift stores and a good deal, long before thrifting was popular. It's always been a way of life for me, and the most honoring way to stretch the resources entrusted to me by my Creator. Vintage things almost always hold their value as well, making the investment in them sweeter still.

My hubby and I have beenmarried for 35 years and spent a good chunk of the first part of it restoring an early 1900's farmhouse that's a county historical site on the Oregon Trail. We did most of the renovations ourselves, including the addition of a delightful wrap-a-round porch. We thoroughly enjoyed being united in goal and purpose, and then seeing the results of what we set our hands to come to life. Speaking of life, our current project is two charismatic girls, ages 20 and 13, and have spent the second half of our marriage with them in new construction. I don't know which half has been more challenging but have loved both experiences more than words can express and wouldn't trade either for any amount of shiplap, ironstone, wood bowls, galvanized tin, homespun linen or white chippy things you could give me.

Is another old farmhouse in my future in the years to come? I love to hope so. In the meantime, I'm practicing contentment where the Lord has me planted and am waiting on Him and His plans and purposes for my future days. Looking back, they're always the sweetest anyway.

Blessings abundant,