July 15, 2019: A Note of Gratitude
“Feeling gratitude and not expressing it is like wrapping a present and not giving it.” -William Arthur Ward
We’ve just finished another two-day show in Alton Bay, New Hampshire. The weather was perfect, with blue skies and a slight breeze. We were up at 4:30 a.m. saw the sun rise, and on site by six. It takes us about 3.5 hours to set up. Our booth was situated right beside Lake Winnepesaukee, underneath an oak tree which gave us shade and respite from the sun. Before the show even officially started, we had customers. Our show promoter, Castleberry Fairs & Festivals, have been thoughtful about assigning us the same spot and people knew where to find us. It was wonderful to see returning customers and meet new ones. We were incredibly busy both days and had our second most successful show ever. After breaking down and packing up all of our paraphernalia (another 2.5 hours) last evening, we finally had time to sit down at dinner and reflect on the weekend and also this path we’re on as Jewelry Artists.
Gratitude
“At times our own light goes out and is rekindled by a spark from another person. Each of us has cause to think with deep gratitude of those who have lighted the flame within us.” -Albert Schweitzer
Leaving a secure job as a teacher to venture out as artist an was scary, but I’ve had encouragement from the initial discussions with my husband, family and close friends whose support has been invaluable. Out of this decision, evolved the invaluable collaboration Ron and I now share in both designing and producing our jewelry.
The posts, phone calls and visits from family and friends expressing support continue to provide “emotional sustenance”. Having personal “well wishers’ is something we are continually grateful for having in our life. My 99-year old dad, waits for my call at the end of every show to hear how the day went. Since the beginning, he has had faith in our ability to succeed, and tells me, “I knew you would do well”. I prayed for you.” When I’ve doubted myself with worrisome “what if’s”, he’s cautioned me “not to cross the bridge until I get there.” His insights and wisdom continue to light the way,
“I would maintain that thanks are the highest form of thought, and that gratitude is happiness doubled by wonder.” —Gilbert K. Chesterton
I’ve written before about the camaraderie of other artists. Their sharing of stories, tried and true tips in show participations, possible locations, as well as assistance when needed has been such a valuable gift. They also have ventured out on uncertain financial paths, yet are generous in their willingness to share what they know. The friendships we have formed add an additional joy to working “on the road”.
“Gratitude unlocks the fullness of life. It turns what we have into enough, and more. It turns denial into acceptance, chaos to order, confusion to clarity. It can turn a meal into a feast, a house into a home, a stranger into a friend.” -Melody Beattie
At dinner after closing, we continued our tradition of asking the question, “Who was our favorite customer of the day?”. This query has nothing to do if they even purchased a piece of jewelry. It’s who did we connect with the most, through a story, laughter, or sometimes tears. This time, we had too many to choose just one. We realized how much our customers have enriched our lives, and treasure the connections we have made.
Returning home last night, we were completely exhausted, but filled with the incredible feeling of gratitude we have to be able to work and make a living at something we love to do. The fact that we are doing this together makes it even sweeter. We are also so thankful for the ongoing encouragement we have from our family, friends and customers.
Alton Bay, July 2019
*The feature photo was taken while we were packing up We had a tiny visitor who landed on one of our tables next to a sparkly Goddess Bracelet. It was very patient while I took multiple photos, and eventually flew off.