Carolina Crafting

I usually don’t do craft shows in hot weather but I saw one that had a really good cause, so I had to do it. The Brasstown Overlook is having a big art, music, fun festival. Everyone attending, both participants and the general public has been ask to bring nonperishable foods for our local food banks.  In this economy, we need to help our neighbors anyway we can.

The fun begins at 10 AM. To get there, take Brasstown Road to John Mason Rd. There will be signs to follow. Hope to see you there.

See you there !!!!

Just Jackie

My dad has been dead almost as many years as he was alive. He died when he was only 47. He passed away the day before Father’s Day.  It was probably the saddest day ever. I have tried over the years not to be sad on this special day for dads but it’s just there.  So this year with this medium of blogs I can honor him.

He was a ball player;  baseball and basketball. My brother and I spent most of our formative years in some kind of sports venue.  He would gather up all the neighborhood kids and we would drive around until we found enough kids to play a ball game. He taught me how to throw a curve ball.

He told me never be late for anything. If you get there early you won’t miss anything good. And you have your choice of seats. He also warned us about never putting a hat on a bed. (bad luck)  He loved to eat at new restaurants. I still have to eat in any new place that opens. He showed me that doing something you don’t like to do is a way to say “I love you”.

He only got to meet one of his grandkids but every time I look at one of my brother’s kids, I see him. I wish he could have grown old. I wish I could hear his old stories again. I’m beginning to forget them. I guess I will always be sad this time of year. It’s OK. I have some great memories.

Just Jackie

I’m not always about crafts…really!!!! I’m into being green,too. I have been since before it was popular and I know I drive my friends and family nuts with it.

I noticed when I was doing my craft shows, that almost every single artist and crafter  was green. That got me to thinking about showcasing their efforts, too. I live in a wonderful area in North Carolina that is very “earth” friendly so it was easy to get some videos. www.greenasyoucanbe.org was born.

The video that went up today features Earth Day in Brasstown. You’ll see some great artists. Thanks for checking it out.

just jackie

I’m always looking for new places to visit. Especially since my husband has been so sick, he likes to go for a ride on Sundays. This Spring has seemed more beautiful. I had heard about the Varda Market and had tried to find it one rainy Sunday but drove right past it. This last weekend I had better luck.

The Varda Market is in Hayesville, NC. Located at 590 Tusquittee Rd. It’s on the banks of the beautiful Hiwassee River.  This market is in it’s beginning stages and will grow as the summer goes on.  Last weekend, my favorite herb lady, Susan was there. She had some nice looking heirloom tomato plants.  This market is open to anyone who “makes it or grows” it. Set up is free. You can contact Robert at vardamarket@gmail.com or call him at 828.389.6396.  Featured this weekend will be Land’s End Homestead Organic Produce. I’ll be set up, too. Come by and say Hi!!!

just jackie                               

Spring has arrived and everyone is planning an event. I love this time of year. From now until Christmas there is something to do every weekend. I’m going to try and keep you’all up to date on what’s out there. (I might miss a few so don’t be offended it I miss your event. You can always contact me here if you need the word spread)

First, the Farmer’s Market in downtown Murhpy. It’s every Sat. morning, 10-2. Lots of local produce and  great crafts.

There’s a new Farmer’s market in Hayesville on Sunday’s noon to 4. I tried to find it last week (in the rain) couldn’t find it. I’m trying again tomorrow, will report on that.

May 30th Spring Fling on the Square in Hayesville, NC (12 to 3) Food & music, didn’t say if there was crafts.  Good food is always worth a drive.

June 6th is Springfest in downtown Murphy. This is a great show. There’s even a classic car show to keep husbands entertained . For more info call Barbara Hughes at 828.837.6821

Murphy’s Hometown Celebration on July 4th is still looking for crafters. You can call Aurelia at 828.361.4936. This is the third year for this event. It’s the kind of celebration you see in movies. There are still small towns out there. Makes you feel good to know your living in one.

Don’t forget to visit the Brasstown Overlook on June 27th. Some great artists have signed up for that day. Check out their site from the link posted on my site. If you come out, stop by and tell me you watch my web casts.

And finally, you can always find great crafts at The Shoppes of Brasstown Village. (yep, a plug for my shop LOL)

Just Jackie

I had been thinking about my tiny little shop in Brasstown. It’s crammed full of wonderful little things. For some reason no one would walk to the end of the shop.  Folks would just walk in, stand in one spot and just turn around in a circle. I know it’s small, 7′x15′, but there’s lots to see.

So, I moved everything. It was time to give the place a good cleaning. There’s a gap under the front door, leaves and other debris had made it’s way in over the winter.  I worked for hours and finally got it rearranged. I like it. But the test was when someone came in to shop. Sure enough, the first person walked all of the 2 or 3 steps it took to get to the table at the far wall. It worked, she even bought something. Hard work pays off once again.

I REALLY need a bigger shop.

Just Jackie

I can’t believe I haven’t posted since Easter. That’s bad. No, it’s good. It means I have been caring for my husband who has now had his  by-pass surgery  and is on the mend. I have much to talk about and will try and space it out so this is not too long.

Spring is here in full force and it’s beautiful. It’s the first year in this house so there are blooming surprises everywhere.

I went back to my shop in Brasstown today for the first time since Easter (except for Earth Day) It rained and was miserable but I was glad to see a few hardy souls out.

I did get orders from my web site for kitty litter screens while I was staying with Casper at the hospital and will spend the next few days catching up with that. I’m running out of frames so Casper has to get well soon or teach me how to cut the wood. (just a note about the hospital, he was in Erlanger in Chattanooga, TN and it was a great experience. Everyone, no matter their job was wonderful.)

This is one of the litter screens. The fabric is atttached with velcro for easy cleaning. It hides the litter pan and gives your kitty some privacy

Just Jackie

HAPPY EASTER

HOPE AND JOY

To all Carolina Crafting Friends !!

Just Jackie

I have been a fan of the Cherokee County Senior Games since the day I found out about the basketball shoot. I want to compete in that event the year I turn 65. (still a few years to practice.)

What I didn’t know about these events is that there is an art division. There are four different categories to compete in: Visual Arts, Heritage Arts, Performing Arts and Literary Arts. Deadlines for these events are April 15. Viewing of the art will be on May 5 and 6 at the Ballroom, 51 Hiawassee St. Murphy, NC.

For more info for the Silver Arts you can call  828.837.2467 or email:jvhhembree@gmail.com

Opening ceremonies for the Senior Games is May 2 at 10 am at the Murphy High School track.

Just Jackie

Our 25th show features a change of pace. The Wilson Family Band performs two of their songs for us: “Angels Of Mercy” and “I’ll Be Young. You can get their music by going to www.blindpigandtheacorn.com. Hope you have enjoyed our second season of Carolina Crafting and we’ll have more for you soon.