October kicked off the craft fair season for me, starting with Oak Knoll Fest XVIII, a fine press book fair in New Castle, Delaware. I've been planning on exhibiting there since I first visited in grad school, and I heard through the grapevine that this may be their last one, so I just couldn't pass it up. Milo and Scott were a big help and we enjoyed our first road trip as a little family.
A week later, I found out that as a new member of the Southern Highland Craft Guild, I had a chance to fill in for a last-minute cancellation at the Craft Fair of the Southern Highlands! My head was still spinning from even being accepted as a member, but this was an opportunity that I just couldn't pass up. I feel so honored to be a member of this prestigious group, and to be able to show my work alongside so many talented artists and craftsmen! My booth needed a lot of work, but I think I pulled together a decent display in such short notice. I really enjoyed meeting the other artists and felt a real sense of camaraderie, and look forward to working with the SHCG for many years to come.
Technically, I'm taking the fall off from work, but really I'm just not teaching for the fall semester. In reality, I feel busier than ever, filling in my "free" time with craft fairs and workshops. I did get lots of puzzled looks from other parents when I'd tell then about my plans for this fall, but they were all too kind to just come out and say that I'm crazy. So even though I'm glad to have participated in these events, a word to new parents out there - take at least three months off from working, and I mean really take the time off! I'm already exhausted, and the holiday season is right around the corner...