There was a bead show in town today. I usually travel to the show in Cincinnati once a year and have not been to the Louisville show, as there are fewer vendors. I had a busy schedule today, so I alloted myself an hour thinking I'd be in and out. Wrong. Two hours and 15 minutes later, I was standing in line for one last purchase and realized I didn't have time to wait. I returned those items to their respective bins and had to leave for my next stop, a nursing home.
I had to visit my grandmother and get there before bingo started at 2:30. Bingo is very much antipated each weekend and grandma doesn't like to miss it! We had a nice visit and I showed her all the goodies I bought at the bead show. She loved the agate pendants, the black cat beads, the amethyst "sticks" and the dichroic glass pendant I found. I was surprised she went for the cat beads as she doesn't like cats. I told her they would be cute for Halloween so I am making those into earrings for her.
I went to the activity center with her where everyone was assembling for bingo. She showed off the beads to everyone at her bingo table and called others over to see. She is my #1 fan, so proud of me for my creativity! Everyone commented that I must get it from my grandma as she is very creative too. The activity director came over to see and mentioned a little show that they set up once a year during Nursing Home Appreciation Week. Local vendors come in and set up booths for the visitors, staff and residents of the nursing home. She told me there is no cost, which seemed very generous. I gave her my card and told her I would be interested and that I would also have a door prize or two to give away that day.
Here's what I am thinking of doing. I want to offer different tier pricing. Instead of taking my earrings that are $20, I want to offer a line that is affordable for the residents, say in the $10 - $15 range. They don't have the date set yet (it's next year) but if it's close to a holiday, like Easter, I can make holiday themed items. To me it's not about making money for this event, it's seeing the smiles on their faces. Jewelry makes women smile, no matter what age they are! I have entertained the notion of teaching them to bead, but I am afraid it would be difficult with most of the beads that I have (too small to see, pick up etc.)
Even though I have signed up for three holiday shows in October, November and December, I am rather excited about spending the day with my grandmother and her friends and giving something back to the place that takes care of her. This visit made for a very happy Saturday.
And I am also contemplating a return visit to the bead show tomorrow!
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3 comments:
that sounds like so much fun! i'm originally from ky and i lived in ohio, too. so it gave me a big smile to read about your going to the bead shows there. and you are a lucky, lucky girl to be able to spend every weekend with your grandmother. what a wonderful blessing that is! the craft show they will be an exciting event for them. i'm sure your grandmother will be so, so proud of your participation and lovely jewelry.
You made me remember my Grandmother. I still miss her so much. She was quite crafty with needlepoint, crewel work and sewing. She taught me so much and was so wonderful. Enjoy the time you have with your Grandmom. It's time you will treasure all your life.
The idea of setting up a small show for the NH residents sounds like a great idea! I think I will add that to my list of things to do in future as there are several assisted living centers around me and I think the residents would like the chance to shop.
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