We took a little day trip last weekend to a nearby town called Farmville. It’s about an hour away from Richmond and, as the name suggests, involves driving deep into rural Central Virginia.
The reason for our adventure was actual to do a family bike ride on a new rails-to-trails park that opened up around Farmville called High Bridge Trail State Park.
For those of you who catch our Instagram pics on Facebook or Twitter, you saw a picture of that very (very, very) high bridge already. But coercing Sherry into riding her bike over this steel and wood skyway was my main thrill of the day. And hers was something else entirely.
She was excited about hitting up Green Front Furniture, which we had last visited nearly four years ago. It’s quite legendary around here – warehouse after warehouse of discounted furniture and accessories (over 18 football fields worth, so they say). So although most husbands might shudder at the thought, we actually ended up having a pretty good time. Of all the options in that lot, these metal giraffes were our favorite. Can’t you picture one of them next to a little wooden playhouse for Clara in our backyard? Maybe someday…
When it comes to the price point of the stuff at Greenfront, a lot of it is what we like to call “out of our reach.” You can usually find awesome things that are up to 50% off and even more than that, but their initial price is often so high to start with that the discounted price is still slightly to wildly out of our budget (ex: $500 chairs, $1200 tables, $3000 sofas). It’s still really fun for inspiration and just to see what patterns, shapes, and designs seem to be gaining momentum.
For example, this couch was $3639 (that was the sale price) but we both thought it was really cool in person. It’s hard to tell from this photo, but it was a thick fabric that wasn’t embossed or anything (in a weird way it was oddly understated for sporting a snakeskin-ish pattern). It might not be something we’d love for ten years (such a specific pattern on such a major piece of furniture might get old), but in the vein of being something that we’d never seen before and having clean lines and plush comfort (we sank in and soaked it up for a hot second before Clara demanded that we keep it moving) we thought it was fun.
Sherry also oohed and ahhed over these mirrors (but just as inspiration since the one on the left was $900 and the one on the right was $460). It’s funny to see them side by side since they actually seem to have a lot in common. Leftie’s our favorite.
This guy was also fun. It kind of reminded us of the ORBed version of the one we have over our bed (except for the small fact that ours was found on clearance at Hobby Lobby).
This leather chair was the stuff of dreams. We both completely agreed that if money were no object that $1491 chair would have come home with us. It’s one of those pieces that would easily be the coolest in the whole room. So we gave him a good long stare and tossed a few “you go, chair” compliments his way.
This chair was also really fun. Everything from the pattern & color of the fabric to the painted edge (it was just black around the sides and left au naturale in the middle) was something we thought someone at home could use as inspiration for a DIYable thrift store find with similar lines.
We also liked this chair, which sported an interesting combination of traditional, unpainted wood + clean and modern fabric. A lot of times we see people painting the wood a bold color (or even white, gray, chocolate, or black) when they reupholster something so classic with a more modern fabric – but this confirmed that leaving the wood alone and adding some crisp and graphic fabric can look great too.
Sherry loved this bench. Too floral for me, but the lines were cool.
This is another example of why we love window shopping, even if we can’t afford anything in the store. This coffee table was really innovative and totally gave us another DIY idea. It’s a little hard to tell, but the inside of the ottoman is wood (with a removable tray) and the outside of it is upholstered in leather. The mix of materials was awesome. And I bet if you had an old coffee table made of wood with a similar rectangular shape (they pop up at thrift stores all the time) you could even make a thick wood frame that could then be upholstered in leather (or something else) and then you could screw it to the top of the table from underneath. You could even find a wood tray to fit into the opening for the full effect (and add nailhead trim if you’re really feeling fancy).
This monkey chandelier was $399.
We had no words. See the guy on the right side laying horizontally? That part attaches to the ceiling, so it’s a monkey hanging from the ceiling holding four other monkeys up by their tails. Completely insane yet kind of amazing. I hope somebody bought it and designed the most awesome/over the top room around it. Although now that I think about it, spray painted white in a kids room might be the coolest thing ever. Don’t tell Sherry, she’ll want to go back for it.
This wasn’t from Greenfront – it was from a nearby shop called The Sleeping Bee – but we thought it was really versatile. We could picture it in a kitchen full of dishes and linens and silverware in cups, or in a garden or sunroom with plants and other outdoor stuff on it.
And now for the discounted section of this window shopping mission. Haha. It wasn’t all 1K furniture, so here are a few less expensive (although still not dirt cheap, but the quality looked awesome) finds…
There were these Anthropologie-ish bone-looking knobs for $1.99.
This cute blue stool was $40.
And this giant mirror was $129 (the picture does it no justice, but it must have been almost three feet tall).
Probably our favorite find of the day was this giant glass lantern (about three feet tall) that was discounted from $99 to $49. Sherry thought one or two of them on a porch or patio with a giant candle in them could be, to use her words: epic. We didn’t buy them though, mostly because we were having fun walking around and didn’t want to drag them with us (and also because Clara was hungry so we had to feed the belly of the beast bean).
Now for those of you still interested in the more athletic portion of our Farmville visit, let’s revisit the High Bridge Trail for a moment. It’s an old railroad bridge that was built in the 1850s and actually played a part at the end of the Civil War when both armies tried to burn it down to their advantage. In the early 1900s the stone piers were replaced with steel ones.
It spans the Appomattox River and is nearly a half mile long. Though it’s really the twelve story height that makes your heart race. Especially when we stopped to think about the people who built the dang thing. It really makes me glad our deck is only four feet off the ground…
In spite of our sweaty palms, it was actually a really great ride. We went about 9 miles, since we wouldn’t dare attempt all 31 with a two-year-old strapped to the front of my bike.
Sadly the shot above is the best one Sherry got of the two of us. Her attempts to get a cool perspective by shooting from above resulted in tons of photos that looked like this. Sherry blames her “stupid short legs.”
Luckily someone hiking the trail offered to snap one for us.
Also luckily for us, Clara is a great bike rider. Our iBert seat is a lifesaver because I can interact with her easily the whole time – asking for her “help” holding the handlebars, singing songs and playing “I-spy” along the way. (We don’t work for them, we just like their seat. Haha.)
And in case you’re wondering, most of the trail actually was crushed gravel and virtually flat (Sherry’s favorite part). There are even bathrooms and picnic benches along the way. We’re already mentally planning a trip back in the fall once the autumn colors start to show their stuff and it cools off a bit more. Although this hot August trip was surprisingly comfortable – even if Sherry did wear jeans (typical). We highly recommend it. Especially since it’s also an excuse to browse the eighteen football fields worth of furniture that is Green Front. Anyone else going on shopping or biking adventures? Do you prefer to wear your toddler on the front of your bike? Or ploy them with lolly pops so they’re happy shopping companions?
Psst- We just shared the outtakes from Clara’s monthly pic on Young House Life (my favorite one involves a politician-ish gesture).
I’m assuming you all know about Verve Home Furnishings here in Richmond? It would be such a great place to do a post like this, because Kim always has such crazy stuff. Warehouse full of mid century modern furniture with some random other vintage finds thrown in.
Oh yes, I love that place! I’m dying to get back there and take some photos (my sister in law texted me all these awesome pics of amazing things she found!).
xo,
s
I know this is like a year later but thanks for posting about Verve. My wife and I have been in a furniture shopping rut recently and I was looking for inspiration here on YHL when I came across this comment. My wife and I checked out Verve today and now we finally have a entry table! How did I not know about this place before now?
Farmville is an adorable town. The furniture places are unreal, are they not?
Totally massive! It’s so much fun!
xo,
s
This looks like an awesome trail! I used to drive through Farmville all the time going back and forth from school, but I didn’t know this was here.
I went to college at Longwood in Farmville. I’m so psyched to see Farmville get some love :)
OMG, Farmville! I went to Sweet Briar College near Lynchburg, and Farmville is where we went for boys.
That’s funny. I went to UVA, and Longwood (Farmville college) guys/girls would come up here on the weekend to have something to do! #smalltownwoes
I’m glad to hear some first-hand info about that new park. I’ve read about it and we want to give it a try soon. It sounds really nice.
Oh that blue & yellow patterned chair reminds me of the new print from BB&B (although different colors) that has been making me want to replace our perfectly good, not very old bed set… every time I walk by the new one I have to talk myself down. Every. Time.
I think I just need to find the fabric & make something else out of it
These are such great photos! Clara looks so adorable in the bike photo :) Have an awesome weekend guys!
HOORAY! My grandparents live in Farmville, and I’m so happy that you went there! There was a lot of drama surrounding the High Bridge trail (mostly because it butts up against a lot of land that people use for deer hunting in the fall), but my family’s confirmed it’s quite nice. My only recommendation for stuff to check out in Farmville is Motley’s– it’s a weird antique store with lots of winding rooms, lots of buckets and piles of junk, and lots of hidden treasures. I don’t think it’s very kid safe– but if you guys like digging through stuff to find goodies, very fun. Farmville also does music on the riverfront once a month, which is very cool!
Ooh that sounds like an awesome shop. Next time we’re there I’m goin’ in!
xo,
s
I second the rec for Motley’s. It is only similarity to Green Front is that once you enter, it’s a maze to exit! Lots and lots of random stuff.
Sara, I’m totally with you on that. Motley’s Emporium it’s one of my favorite places to shop around in town.
And next time, be sure and stop by and visit Pino’s Italian while in town.
Can I place orders for your next trip out there? ;-)
Sherry – totally feel your pain about short legs ;-)…I am 5’2 and a constant ballerina…not that I am graceful or a dancer (I wish!) but I have to stand on my tippy toes to get good shots, reach things etc.
Oh and have a great weekend! :-)
You might also enjoy the Virginia Creeper Trail! Pretty much all downhill.
Thanks Dail!
xo,
s
John–as a tall guy like my husband, do you ever hit your knees on the iBert? Thanks for the great pics & post!
Thankfully no! Clara can reach back and touch my knees with her hands, but I convinced her not to so it’s more comfy for both of us. Haha.
-John
Our county just revamped an old rail to trail as well! We’re in southern NJ, so it’s all flat, but they did intersperse some cool historical sections along the way! Part of it also has two trails paralell to each other (I guess much like when it was the rail line) which is great for walking our dog separate from people who are trying to run/bike the trail. I would love to cross that bridge!
I love Clara’s bike seat, that is the coolest thing ever! She got to have an awesome view instead of being in back like most seats I see.
Those metal giraffes would be look cool in your backyard! I want some for mine!! :-)
Oh yeah…that leather chair is amazing! It’s funny because in the first picture of the snake skin couch I kept looking behind it to see that chair yet I only needed to keep scrolling!
Yes, we are riding again in France in two weeks. Last year we rode from the top to the bottom of France which was beautiful and difficult in spots. This year we are starting in Paris and riding to points in Burgundy for two weeks. Then in October we are once again cycling from Pittsburgh to Washington, DC on rails to trails. That’s it for the rest of this year, but we have BIG plans again for 2013.
That sounds awesome!
xo,
s
What bikes do you all have? We’re having our first child next year, and I told my hubby I’d like a bike for Mother’s Day, and he can get one for Father’s Day!
I have a K2 and John has a Trek. Hope it helps!
xo,
s
Okay seriously, Sherry? How did you bike 9 miles in jeans? in August? Do you know that it’s totally acceptible to wear shorts/leggings for biking, right? And I’m sure John wouldn’t post a picture of that…lol
Haha, I’m a weirdo! I know. Total never nude.
xo,
s
yes kelly, i thought the same thing.hahaha.
(sorry sherry.)
One question – did you take these pictures with your iphone or a camera?
They were mainly all with the iPhone I think! Maybe some with the big camera, but most (and all trail ones) with our phone.
xo,
s
Yay! Farmville lovin’! I went to college in Farmville! It’s such a cute town and I LOVE that trail. It’s such a nice surprise to see my old stompin’ grounds on one of my favorite blogs! Tell me you hit up Macados for lunch?! It’s a staple when you visit Farmville. :)
Next time for sure! Sounds so good!
xo,
s
I went to Longwood too!!! :)
I love this post! My husband went to school in Farmville (Hampden-Sydney) and at the time we thought that the only thing in town was the Walmart, which was where all the high school students hung out since they lacked a mall. I’m going to have to try harder to convince him to return so I can check out Green Front Furniture!
FYI, if you ever find yourself in the Fredericksburg area, they have plenty of antique stores, and the best ice cream on the east coast (Carl’s) in the summertime. It’s where my alma mater is and a great place to check out battlefields, old architecture, and ice cream!
Sounds like so much fun!
xo,
s
And she wore flip flops for a 9 mile bike ride??? She’s full of contradictions… I could never own only one bra… or wear flip flops on an athletic jaunt… I admire you… but still suggest getting a second bra so the girls are perky for John when you’re in your 50’s. :)
Haha, I’m a weirdo, I know. Jeans and flip flops.
xo,
s
Have y’all ridden the Virginia creeper trail? I’ve done it countless times and it’s so much fun! http://www.vacreepertrail.org/
Sounds awesome!
xo,
s
That store looks totally dangerous. I’m sure I’d manage to fall in love with all of the stuff that was still well over $1000. It’s a talent.
So I just have to brag on my man/thank you guys for insporation because I came home yesterday and was completely surprised by my husband who had built me… a table. Yeah. I only managed one pic before pretty much fainting: http://lollingabout.wordpress.com/2012/08/17/foodie-friday-gather-round-the-table/
After hearing you guys mention Ana White and seeing all of the projects John has tackled, Josh totally went for it! We still have some finishing touches to go, and need to stain it, but WHOA! Thanks for inspiring all of us newbies!
That’s so awesome Allyn!
xo,
s
I’m with Sherry–that bridge would freak me out! Looks like a fun trip though!
My husband and I don’t have bikes but plan to get some. i saw a neighbor with the front child seat and that is what we plan to get. I think it would be better to keep an eye on them.
I hope you filled your bellies with Macado’s! I’ve been known to make special trips to Farmville just to eat at Macado’s…of course some window shopping always works its way in, much to my husband’s dismay, he’ll totally go for food though!
Mmm, sounds so good! Next time!
xo,
s
As the daughter of a doctor, I have to applaud you for wearing your helmets! Safety first! :)
That monkey chandelier is INSANITY…in some weird way I feel like I sort of have to have it!!! Ha! Love the bike trail…makes me want to MOVE somewhere with a fabulous TRAIL!
cheers
~ Jillian
http://www.hersplitends.com
Love the ibert, as does my son. He likes to point out dump trucks, big buses and taxicabs while riding (we live in Manhattan). It’s so easy to interact with him, too, like you said. He LOVES ringing the bell when walkers cross against the light. Oh, if you ever make it to the city, feel free to house crash my family’s apartment. Good fodder for what you can do with a rental. Cheers!
She looks so darned cute…. and happy in that last pic :)
Well, that monkey chandelier is awesome. Would you mind going back and picking it up for me? I’ll wait right here.
Haha, on my way!
xo,
s
We have two chairs almost identical to the third one down, that are sitting in the space above our garage (wow, I should really do a post of all the furniture up there we intend on using in the house…). Anyway, I plan on reupholstering them so this was great to see “them” done! Great visual image for me down the line! Thank you. :)
Ooh, good luck with those Heather!
xo,
s
We NEED that metal giraffe in our yard also! What a fun biking trail- may need to try it out this fall.
That sounds like such a cool trip to take…definitely one I’d love to do! Thanks for sharing! :)
My daughter and I so enjoy your blog… However, she gets so inspired that the projects end up being DIM (Do It Mom)! :)
Haha, thanks Vicki! Or sorry, I guess! Haha.
xo,
s
We’ve also had fun browsing GreenFront….but it is totally overwhelming! I’m glad to know about that trail: that will get us back there, although after this massive summer of heat is over!
Yay! for Green Front in Farmville. We went there two years ago on one of the hottest days in June – do you know how HOT it gets on the upper floors of those warehouses – yikes! Anyway, we bit the bullet and bought two matching Bradington Young leather wingback recliners, our most expensive furniture buy ever, but we Love them!!
I got so excited seeing this post! I went to Longwood College in Farmville. It’s such a cute and quaint little town. My parents always loved to stop by Green Fronts when they would come visit. Thanks for the trip down memory lane. :-)
I live in a town about 30 minutes away from Farmville called Blackstone and each year at Christmas (actually from Thanksgiving through the first of the year) our local hardware store puts on an amazing train display. THOUSANDS of people come each year during that time to see the trains. Really it is more than just trains…he has hot air balloons, fire trucks that put out the fire with real water, etc. It is definitely worth the hour drive. I think Clara would love it, and I know many adults that do also.
Sounds awesome!!
xo,
s
Gosh, that bridge does look scary. Eeek! Reminds me rather of the bridge in ‘Back to the Future 3’ that Clara (the Doc’s love interest, not your Clara!) nearly fell to her death off.
Love that monkey chandelier, just so bizarre! Don’t think it would fit our rooms though (it looks kinda big!) even if I had the money and could afford shipping to UK LOL! But the GrandTwins would love it I’m sure.
Must show my daughter the pics of Clara’s bike seat. She actually has twins, but I think both she and son in law cycle occasionally… Must try and find out if those seats are available over here.
Thanks for a real entertaining window shop! And the scary bridge pics – lovely to view faraway places!
oh are you guys giving away an Ibert on Monday?!?!
Haha, I wish! The clue for our giveaway was in this morning’s post :)
xo,
s
I actually love that floral bench too! I think I may need to look into one of those bike seats. Looks so comfortable for little passengers!
Megan
Ps: How does Sherry go for a 9 mile bike in jeans and flip flops?!
I’m a maniac, haha.
xo,
s
The Verve Warehouse is open tomorrow!
Wahoo!
xo,
s
Those giraffes are awesome!
P.S. Sherry, I’ve never worn the pencil jeans before but I just picked up some from Kohls (they’re part of the Lauren Conrad line) and they’re super comfortable and cute. I seriously just love that you’re who you are even with all of us following you!
Aw thanks Crystal, you’re so sweet. I hope they’re the best jeans ever. Haha.
xo,
s
green front is amazing, right!? we got our couch there.
and i’m loving those mirrors. i’m in the market for a round mirror for my “entryway” (that’s in quotes because we live in a ranch like you guys so i don’t really have an entry/foyer) but sadly it’s a tooouch out of my price range.
I almost bought an ibert after a co-worker sent me a link to the site. However, after reading a review by someone who wrote they cannot reach around the seat because they are short. I am 5′ 2″ and did not purchase it because of that fear. Does Sherry ever put the seat on her bike? And if so, can she reach around it?
Thanks!!!
It’s always on John’s bike (total paint to move it) so I haven’t tried. So sorry!
xo,
s
Amazing pictures. I live in DC but will now scheme a way to get to Farmville… (Also, you crashed the iBert website!)
Oh no! Oops. Hope it’s back up soon!
xo,
s
I LOVE Farmville! I spent every summer there as a kid and I would love to go back.
Looks like fun, but I’d also be excited to hear about what’s in Dinwiddie or Goochland!