Indie Craft Parade

This weekend has been inspirational.  Last night my sister, a friend of ours, and I enjoyed a wonderfully delicious dinner at an intriguingly artistic restaurant.  After dinner, we headed downtown.  One of these days I will remember to bring my camera along and post some pictures of this wondrous place.  It is one of the most culturally thriving, daringly artsy, marvelously delightful locations on earth.  Please visit! 
We didn't visit downtown for a regular stroll along the river, or to browse through the several art studios, or even to stop in one of our favorite places, Spill the Beans.  We went strictly to visit the

Boy.  was.  I.  inspired.

Here's the link if you want to find out what it was all about.  Basically, it was a festival of handmade art.  Over 75 chosen artists displayed their products: 2-D art, 3-D art, fiber art, to wear products, paper goods, and more.  Creativity abounded.  My top favorite was Illyria pottery.  Not only does Katie create incredibly beautiful and innovative products, but she is also my ceramics teacher.  Some of my other favorites were Carrie Creech, Heather Davenport, Fox to the Opera, and lightnest. 

I could have spent my whole summer's earnings at that place.  But I didn't.  I was content with one purchase:  An absolutely stunning ceramics mug crafted by Carrie Creech.  I've already used it twice.  Let me just say:  Vanilla chai tea tastes better when I use this mug.  I think the beauty of the mug heightens the taste of any drink that enters it. 

Next weekend my sister, friend, and I will be taking a fun trip to Charlotte.  The Blumenthal Performing Arts Center is featuring a new Broadway musical production of Mary Poppins.  After the delightful performance we are going to eat at the Cheesecake Factory.  Expect lots of fun pictures!