Just a few local Holiday shows and I’m almost through 2018. I’ve been pleased with everything I’ve done up through now, a few of us are still making baskets for the new additions to the SNI enrollments. I’ve got a co-hostess for craft nights at the OCC/SINM, they worked on moccasins and now some beaded ornaments, next month we are making a small basket from a kit. I’ll share the results, hopefully.

Contests to compete, entry deadlines, new work – I’ve got to look forward and see what I’ll be able to participate in. There are some show dates come and gone but plans still to consider others.

Maybe It’s just one of those days, I’m feeling older, glad I can share some of my time and talents with others but I could retire soon. My body feels the affect of what I was once capable of doing more and more. The Emerald Ash Borer has slowly taken this once abundantly available resource of the black ash tree. And like that erosion, I’m becoming discouraged also. It’s heartbreaking to see the devastation and the toll it is taking. Our environment is a precious commodity and we should be protecting it. Our minuscule harvesting is nothing in comparison to what the EAB has done.

I know by sharing what I can – I am preserving the knowledge with future generations in mind but with it comes emotions which I had not been aware or even prepared to come from my art. I’m sad, angry, indignant, reflective, hopeful, tired and proud. In my mind, my ancestors are behind me, giving me a knowing nod and a gentle smile and this gives me a warm comfort that I’m doing something right. Hope you have a good day, make memories, make art. Peace.