My friend Wendell retired from a factory job Up Nawth a few years back. He works harder now than ever.

We visited him today at his 'pavilion' on Highway 127. He's there early for the big flea market that starts week after next. We went to give him a break so he could grab a meal while he had somebody minding the store.

I teased him about buying junk and selling antiques. He insists that, no, he buys and sells junk.

A prime example, some of the ugliest salt and pepper shakers I have ever seen. He discovered last year that he can sell these things for $3 a pair or two pairs for $5 and make a killing. This year he has hundreds of them and a line of bull that charms customers into returning year after year.

If you click on the picture to go to Flickr, then click on "all sizes" you can see the original so you can examine them more closely. If you decide that you can't live without that pair that looks like a turquoise washer and dryer (center, extreme left), let me know. I'll have him hold it for you.

Now he does have some neat stuff as well. He is an avid Griswold cast iron collector and sells a few pieces although they are pricey. I fell in love with this big brass kettle that I think he's selling too cheap, but I couldn't justify it with my accountant.

Moving all this merchandise, especially the cast iron, is hard work, but he loves what he is doing and he loves visiting with people.

Best job he's ever had.