Seeing as how I write with a slight hilly twang, and seeing as how I graduated from the very mountainous Appalachian State University, finding a niche to settle into called Grassroots Appalachia seems like a perfect destination for me...and my books.
I couldn't have designed a store better suited to me than this one. Created as a brainchild of Lenoir, North Carolina resident Michael Barrick, it will enable artisans and authors throughout the Appalachian region to become a supportive community as they (we) share our own creative brainchildren. He found an empty, available space, (next door to a bakery - woohoo) at 458 Harper Avenue in Lenoir.
Opening week will be filled with exciting activities designed to set the tone of the enterprise. First up, Saturday, August 15 at seven in the evening is a ticketed event, a comedy, "Don't Rock the Boat."
Skipping to Tuesday, August 18, at 6:30, the soft opening really cranks up with a gathering to explain the concept of "Creating Conditions Favorable for Community Life." Paintings by a late 19th century artist, Fred Boger will be revealed at this gathering.
My friend and fellow writer, Karin Davidson, shares loom weaving starting at 11:30 Wednesday morning, August 19. It's a do-drop-in moment in time.
Following this hard-act-to-follow is my presentation of fly fishing/fly tying with special guests David Anders and James Henson. Starts at 2:00, so once again, do drop in! Of course, my books will be there with me. I wrote about these anglers and tyers in my fly fishing books, and even though...EVEN THOUGH I have never been fly fishing in my life, I can't wait to share this time with them as we talk about the books, the art of tying, and the lives of those who are devoted to this sport.
To round off Wednesday, at 6:30 crafter Amber Shoemake will teach a class with "a few fun surprises" thrown in. I think I'll hang around to see what she has in store...literally "in store."
Thursday August 19 is a biggie! A doozy of a day, if I say so myself, because I am thrilled to be a part of it. The day focuses on Caldwell County Literature, starring at first step, The Foothills Writers Group. 11:30. We (I say we, because I'm a Foothills writer, too) will bring our books, and, get this, a potluck luncheon of mountain staples to share with whoever comes. My assignment is pinto beans, and rest assured, there will be cornbread and all the fixins. We'll talk books over the goodies, like this one, our fifth cooperative book. Do drop in.
Another local author, Tony Deal, takes the stage Thursday evening at 6:30 to share his newest book, "But That's Not True!" This I've got to hear!
All of the opening week events are designed to excite the community about the possibilities of creating and then selling in a fair trade market. I cherish the friendships I've developed being a part of the creative community. I've learned from mentors. I've learned from just being present and absorbing. Also I've learned from observing this one thing: there is always a welcome spot for others to join.
See you soon!
Catch of the day,
Gretchen
