While the weather is still drizzly and cold, I've been spending time inside sifting through thrift, antique, and junk shops. With some time and a little patience, you can find great things to repurpose in your home or garden: all you have to do is open your eyes and think a little creatively!

I spent last weekend in Clarkston with a good friend, doing just that, and I drove back to Spokane with a car full of treasure. If you haven't been to the L/C Valley for an afternoon of shopping (and eating...there are some great pastries in these small towns), I highly recommend a day trip. Clarkston is about two hours from Spokane and the drive takes you through Union Town, which is chock full of great shops.

For a trip to Clarkston and Union Town, I recommend the following stops:

The Hanger Antique Emporium: an old airplane hanger turned antique mall, the place is vast, has great variety, and free coffee to keep you going—plan some serious time for this one.

River Chicks' Antiques & Knicks: smaller, but friendly and packed with things ready to be found!

Daily's: for lunch and pastries. Great food, great coffee, great baked goods.

In Union Town, stop at the Artisan Barn, which displays and sells local artists' wares year round. You'll find three great antique and flea market shops along 195 as you drive through town. I have purchased everything from furniture to garden art on my trips. While you're in town, stop at the Sage Bakery. Their jammers (jam-filled scones) are worth the trip all on their own.

This coming week I hope to make my way through the Monroe Street antique and thrift stores as my hunt for treasures continues. I'll let you know what I find!

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