promises

I promised this blog that I would be better about writing - I committed to it. But absent I have been.

It's been a busy month. I've been working on some freelance writing projects that will be appearing in the upcoming issue of Richmond Bride magazine, and I've been putting a lot of energy into creating jewelry.

I've spent the past two Thursdays at the 17th Street Farmer's Market, selling both my jewelry and jewelry created by my dear friend Allyson Rainer. It's been fun. Really fun. I find it hard to believe that I'm writing about how much fun I had hanging out talking to strangers all day. Don't get me wrong - I love people. But I'm a huge introvert. Most of the time, I'm happiest in the company of my husband or a few close friends - or in my jewelry studio, humming along to Rilo Kiley, Bright Eyes, or the Old 97's.

But I'm having some serious fun at the market. It could be that I'm living my dream. I find it hard to believe that I can get up every morning and do what I love. Or it could be the fantastic energy of the market. All of the vendors are super-friendly and supportive and interesting and I've met a lot of pretty amazing people. I've connected with a few other female business owners, including photographer Jessica Joy Leatherman and Colleen (whose last name I don't know), who creates a variety of crafty goodness, including jewelry, and also does amazing henna. I feel like I'm surrounded by so much warmth and creativity that I feel completely replenished.  And despite last week's bad news, I feel utterly and completely alive.

This weekend, I'll be at the new Alternative Market in Carytown [behind AlterNatives (3320 W. Cary St.)].  20% of sales will be donated to benefit the Mayan Arts Project. And I've also applied to be a vendor at the new Byrd House Market in Oregon Hill.  Come check it out!