Home show off to a wet start

COEUR d'ALENE - Good thing they had tents.

"We're just trying to stay dry," said Miranda Hofert. The volunteer director for the Kootenai Humane Society was huddled under the organization's canopy with several other women and a few dogs up for adoption when the clouds burst once more on Friday afternoon, putting a damper on the first day of a home and garden show at the Art & Home Center.

Great Pyrenees mix Brandy wasn't about to budge from her dry spot under the table, however.

"We'll be here all weekend," Hofert said.

The group will be alongside nearly 70 commercial vendors at the free show that runs through Sunday at 1619 Lee Court, across Appleway Avenue from Lowe's.

"It is all about the community," said Pat Chadwick, partner in the business that is holding the show inside and out of the center. Vendors include artists, artisans, contractors and distributors of items ranging from skin care to Tupperware, and jewelry to hardwood floors.

"A lot of them have never been to a trade show," Chadwick said. "Their phone is not ringing."

With a little luck, the weather forecast, which calls for slightly better conditions today and even sunnier on Sunday, will make the first of what are planned to be ongoing shows at the Art & Home Center a popular destination for shoppers.

"The weather ain't helping," said Steve Minette of Floors by Steve.

Hopping about under her canopy, Melanie Warner, Leilani Natural skin care vendor, said the show got off to a slow start because of the cool, wet conditions.

"This morning my fingers froze," she said.

The plants for sale in the outdoor venue were doing well, and some participants had the benefit of the rain, but the screen-shaded dining area was no match for the heavy downpour. Those with displays inside were much more comfortable, and considering the intricate hand work that went into many of the items on display and for sale that was for the best.

Dan Woodward brought some elaborate wood furniture built specially for the show, including an alder dresser with self-closing drawers, a glossy cedar chest and a sapele mahogany wine chest in an arts and crafts style.

"Everyone likes the wine storage," Woodward said.

There will be plenty of hot coffee, tea and cocoa, plus hot dogs and kettle corn to enjoy under that shady dining area when the sun does decide to shine, and a good selection of sunglasses, too. Bedding, granite, garden art, heating and air conditioning, and a variety of services for homeowners will be on display for visitors to the show.

For those willing to brave the weather if it is less than perfect, there is also a chance to win a new Polaris four-wheeler.

Hours are 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. today, and 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. on Sunday.