country – to shows both big and small, where they hope to sell their wares and find a few treasures for themselves, too. The couple employs pickers who are dispatched throughout Kansas and Missouri to search for what Brenda calls “scores,” or purchases. They travel to one or two large shows every six months, she says, and when they’re not on the road, they’re in their barn behind the house, where much of their prep work is done. If the weather is uncooperative, as was the case during this winter’s harsh cold snaps, they simply take their work indoors to their house. After all, the show will arrive, whether or not they’re ready. Home a homage to a bygone time Drive up the winding gravel roads on the way to the Kilgores’ farmhouse and you’ll see it clearly — the small, picturesque house on top of a hill. The entrance to the property is marked with an old wagon wheel, and on your right is a small pond. Get out of your car, and you’ll see the small barn where Brenda and Mark do their renovation work — in warmer months, at least. Vintage metal signs adorn the exterior of the structure (Brenda says Mark has a special spot in his heart for vintage advertising). On your left, a small stone path leads up to the farmhouse’s front door. Enter it and you’ll be in the small sunroom where vintage planters hold a colorful array of plant life. The couple added the sunroom when they moved into the house, and it’s attached to
A wooden crate is used as the coffee table in the Kilgores’ living room. Inside a large, polished, wooden bowl are items either gifted to the couple, or items they have found on their peaceful walks through the adjoining woods.
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