Silverton, Peaches, Balance

Another art fair under our belts for the summer. We had a beautiful weekend; after being in so many states this month I felt a little dazed by yet another big event to digest so John came with me and even offered to take over but of course I had to go there so I could file my report afterward. (that's a fib - the truth is that I don't want to miss anything. I'll catch up on my rest when I'm dead.)

The city really gets behind this fun little fair. The night before they hosted us at a party with food and libations from local wineries. The theme was tiki-tiki tropical and so we did our best to think of palm trees.

Some of the yummy food that was served. They kept coming around with the wine. Oh, yeah.

This fair has some of the best demonstrations and play areas for kids of all ages. Dont you love this display of cardboard mania? Moms, don't buy your kids expensive kits. Give them cardboard and little scissors and glue and turn them loose to make their own cities. These were really detailed and the man who was making them was so happy; art makes people smile!!

I don't know who this guy is but he was stencilled on all the garbage cans in the park. Hee hee. I said stencil.

My little friend Mia and her me-maw getting down with the glitter and glue. She made a visor and a necktie out of heavy paper. And then forgot and left it in my booth.

I bring you only one new artist this time. His name is Wolff Bowden and I urge you to visit his website and look at his materials up close. His paintings were made out of some heavy duty auto paints and resins and mystery thick stuff. They were just wonderful as I'm sure you can tell. He is a writer as well as an artist; look at the charisma pouring out of those eyes. Whew, the energy!

Calligraphy demo. There were also demos and hands on events featuring origami, resist painting, digital film making, wood carving, musical instrument making and some I'm sure I've forgotten. It was wonderful.

I wanted him so bad. What a little cutie-patootie. He never stopped wiggling.

And a couple of journal pages about the busy mayhem that has been this whole month so far. My sister in the hospital, me running all over the country wanting to be at least 3 people, John taking up the slack at home by taking care of all the things I am neglecting in my haste. It isn't true that you can have it all. We have to choose, darn it. I'm a glutton so I keep trying to digest too much.

Only my journal calms my nerves. Here I am organized, focused and slow. This is the polestar that lights my journey and shows me the way. Mine is not a book of mayhem. It is messy in some ways but when I look at it I see resolve.

Yesterday I picked the peach tree and made 8 pints of Ginger Peach Marmalade. (Guy & Wm., this is for you. Come visit. The jam got thick this time and I'll make you scones to go with.)

Finally, thank you dearest Ro for the "Nice Matters" award. Nice manners. I hope I have them even though I worry about leaving anyone out or not doing enough. I want to pass this award on to Maija and Deb Trotter for writing such kind words about me on their blogs in recent days even though all I wanted to do was express my love to these outstanding women. The more people I know, the more people I love. Really love. Oh, it makes life complete; to love deeply and well. (and yes, I know others have given you this award already but darlings, you deserve it again!)

A little crazy today. Full range of emotion. I think I'll go into the studio now and pour it out.