Visiting the Cool Rim Country

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My sister Phyllis and I headed to the cool temperatures of the Rim Country recently to check out Garden Walk 2014, which is presented by the Rim Area Garden Club each May. This was our second sisters’ excursion and I was excited about showing one of my favorite areas of Arizona to my sister. We have such a great time that we’re looking forward to exploring more interesting events, shops and locations around this beautiful state.

The lovely weather added to a very pleasant day and our six-garden tour included two gardens each in Payson, Pine and Strawberry. We enjoyed unique and inspiring displays ranging from backyard gardens in residential neighborhoods to rural settings in the mountains. There was even a mini-ranch complete with horses, rescue dogs and an organic vegetable garden.

We saw fun yard art using antique and vintage pieces, relaxed in a serene Japanese garden set in the tall pines, learned practical tips for planting a raised garden, and discovered hundreds of plant species all well marked along each garden’s paths. It was very helpful talking with the master gardeners who were onsite and we took lots of pictures as reminders of each garden. We’re already planning to head back for the May 2015 Garden Walk!

After the tour it was time for lunch so we headed to HB’s Place in Pine. The restaurant site has been in the Patterson family for five generations, and our waitress McKenzee, a family member, related some of its rich history. Built in the late 1800s, the original structure housed E. C. Fuller General Merchandise. Several Patterson generations were raised on the property over the years, and in 1955-56, the current building was constructed to house a café, service station and the post office with Grandma Celeste Patterson as Post Mistress for 17 years. At one time, the Pine-Strawberry School even held some classes there. In 2006, HB’s Place opened, fulfilling a dream of Harold “HB” and Marilyn Patterson. HB passed away in 2007, but family members still offer delicious home-cooked food including their popular home made pies. HB’s Place is at 3854 N. Highway 87 and is open Monday to Saturday. Call 928-476-4475 for information.

After lunch, we stopped in at Coach House Antiques & Boutique to see owners Charlotte and Manny Cantu and check out their shop, which they opened in October 2012. Before locating in the heart of Pine, the Cantus owned a shop in Pinetop called White Mountain Cottage, but they wanted to be closer to their children and grandchildren in Phoenix.

Coach House is a special shop with a wide variety of unique items from boutique merchandise to antiques and vintage items. The boutique includes clothing, jewelry, home décor plus an infant’s section with new and antique merchandise. One room is full of kitchen items, such as kitchenware, décor, linens and furniture. Another room is the “man cave” with western, sporting gear and hand tools.

The inventory constantly changes so you can find something special whether you are looking for a gift item, a new outfit or that one-of-a-kind piece that you just can’t live without.

After browsing inside, we headed out through the back patio to the barn and discovered a fascinating eclectic mix of old signage, yard art, tools, milk cans, appliances, furniture and more. The Cantus have plans to increase the barn area and make room for vendors and possibly entertainment.

Coach House Antiques & Boutique is a fun place to explore and you’re sure to discover a treasure or two. Located at 3824 N Highway 87, the store is open Monday to Saturday from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. and on Sunday from 12 Noon to 4 p.m. Check out their website www.coachantiques.com or call 928-476-3641.

Each time I visit the Rim Country I learn more about its interesting history so, when you head to this delightful locale, take time to explore. Plan to attend the 3rd Annual Fall Apple Festival Antique Show on October 11 and 12 at the Pine-Strawberry Cultural Hall, 3886 N. Highway 87 in Pine.

We’ve made it easier for you to find some of the best places to shop with our guide on pages 11; plus there’s a list of coming events on this page. Each of our advertising shops is unique with its own story to tell—go and enjoy! And please tell them that The Antique Register sent you.

 

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