The First Snow Day

I went to Martinsville today for a little shopping at several open houses downtown. My first stop was Studio 107 on Church Street where I chatted with Mary Powell, watercolor artist. She was demonstrating her painting technique while two dulcimer musicians played somewhere in the back of the studio. I followed the sound and, of course, the smell of refreshments and found the source of the music which added to the festive atmosphere. All over the studio were lovely handcrafted quilts, jewelry, handbags and Christmas ornaments. Carolyn sort of "runs the show" and everyone is always so nice there.

My second stop was a great consignment shop also on Church Street called Consignment Corner. I am not a stranger to this shop and love to poke around to see what is new. In the past I have found many blue and white china treasures to expand my already huge collection. Today I hunted Christmas items and was delighted with the tin Santa advertisement and two new (with the tags on) red and white sets of pot holders, apron and mitts that I can use for gifts. Then I spied the treasure of the day, a set of 8 clear glass cup and saucers to use for cider. The prices are incredible! I read somewhere that being frugal is the new "chic." Stop in and talk to Dave and Becky, the owners. They are friendly and knowledgeable. They offer furniture, antiques, books, quilts, pictures, lamps, dishes.......on and on and on.

On to The Southern Virginia Artisan Center for a look at some gorgeous hand crafted art items. I saw my friend, Iris Gillispie's photography there, interesting jewelry, pottery, painted gourds, paintings, bookmarks and even a handmade turkey call box. You name it, they have it. Even Santa Claus showed up! The visitors center is also in the same building.

My last stop was Martha's Baskets, Gifts and More on Ellsworth Street where I started a little pile of merchandise to purchase. I bought the cutest little round soaps that look like peppermint candy. Martha's has great gourmet items such as Wind Willow cheese ball/dip mixes, wine, Virginia peanuts, crackers, preserves, Nancy's fudge and mulling spices. A wonderful tasting honey mustard was there for tasting. And I did! For you Paula Deen lovers, her products are for sale at Marthas.

While at Marthas, I spoke to artist Susie Pool who works with fused glass. The plates with reindeer on them were darling. OMG! I need to go back and get one for my Reindeer Chow, why didn't I think of that? Anyway, Susie gives classes upstairs, but you can purchase her ornaments, sun catchers and all kinds of beautiful glass.

As I left my last stop, it started to snow. The first snow of the season! As I approached my car, my hair and red coat were covered with white snowflakes. It was such a happy feeling to be standing in the snow, the cold nipping at my already pink nose and feeling really happy, which is something I have not felt very often since my mother died last September. Life is good even though bad things happen sometimes. I pulled my coat a little tighter and hurried to my car.

As we approach the Christmas holiday, please let us all remember people in nursing homes, shut-ins and those who are, through no fault of their own, having a difficult time making ends meet. It is fun to run around, shopping and enjoying the Christmas rush but there are some of our neighbors who won't have a happy Christmas this year. If we have a little extra to give, let us give it.