I had my last outdoor show of the year last Sunday at the Franconia Sculpture Park and despite being incredibly windy with lighter than average foot traffic, I left feeling really good about the day. Even though it wasn't a packed market with huge sales, I left with the sense that people can and do truly care about each other. I witnessed a variety of people happily go out of their way to support folks working hard to bring something unique and of quality into the world (yes, folks like myself). I watched as handcrafted loaves of sourdough sold out half way through the day. I watched folks line up to talk about sustainable farming practices and favorite cuts of meat. I saw families engaging with art and grabbing small items to be saved for gifts this holiday season.
And I sold a few pieces.
And then I took some of the money from those sales and bought some pork chops from forest raised pigs. And I am hoping to dig into some of fresh sourdough I picked up tonight for dinner. And then those makers came and supported me with purchases. And it all felt right.
As your inbox and your attention start to (or continue to) be flooded with talk of sales and holiday shopping and blah, blah, blah, do yourself a favor and seek out local goods. I promise you there are a ton of hard working, talented and very passionate folks near you doing awesome things. Support us and we'll take good care of you...and the local economy...and the environment...and, well, we'll do whatever we can to keep making the world better in a million ways.
Best,
Ty