I watched as an Arts & Crafts oak rocker sold for $50, an antique Bar Harbor wicker chair fetched $40, and a Victorian fireplace screen brought only 10 bucks. I spent five whole dollars on a firewood box and dropped another $45 on two framed prints that caught my eye. I kicked myself afterward for not bidding on an oak poker table with a felted top that sold for a mere $30, but I was glad I bowed out at $90 and let another bidder take home an antique bed warmer for $100. Those, I learned later, you can buy for considerably less on eBay.
Auctions are fast-paced, and there's no guarantee you won't regret a decision now and again. But, when you see something you like--and the price is right--don't hesitate to seize the deal.
It was nearly 1 p.m. when weary auctioneer Kit Martin asked for an opening bid of $50 on a chest of drawers that looked attractive from a distance. I waved my paddle as a gesture of support. Another bidder jumped into the fray, and I was sure I needn't worry I'd wind up with the piece. I bid again, reflexively. The other bidder dropped out. And that's when my marital woes began.
