Art At The Mill 2015

It's time for Art At The Mill at the historic Burwell-Morgan Mill (c. 1782) in Millwood, Virginia! This is truly a Clarke County treasure and one of my favourite events to attend. Walking into the old mill is a stunning experience that elicits the senses. The still-working mill is a pleasure in and of itself, and then add in all the wonderful pieces of art, and it is a sight to behold. During the show, you can view more than 1,000 pieces of artwork created by over 300 artists from our surrounding area and more than a dozen other states. You may even get to chat with one or two of the artists, whom I have always found to be so personable and willing to answer any of my questions. One year my little girls even enjoyed a simple art lesson given by one of the local artists. It was a special touch added to an already enjoyable experience.

Art At The Mill is a lovely day excursion. Shop at the art show, browse through the gourmet food shop, The Locke Store, maybe even pick up a few things for a casual picnic on the beautiful grounds of the mill. The surrounding horse farms also make for a relaxing drive in the country. The Shenandoah River is close by, as well, and you can get a peek at the delightful and unique Virginia Bluebells along the river banks.

These photos are all from last year's Art At The Mill event. I cannot wait to get there this year to see what all the talented artists have been up to in the last twelve months! I hope to see you there.

Join the Clarke County Historical Association for the 2015 edition of Art At The Mill:

Art At The Mill will be open April 25th-May 10th, 2015 during the following hours:  

Monday-Thursday 10-5

Friday and Saturday 10-6

Sunday from 11-5

Adults $5

Seniors $3

Kids 12 and under are free

Blessings and love. xo

Giving at Christmastime

Ben and I visited our local F.I.S.H. (Faith In Serving Humanity) location last weekend. We had a bag of clothing to donate, and I had been wanting to go and find out more about the services they offer. This location had a food bank plus a clothing room where clothing is sold, with the profits going to the food bank. 

We both looked around the clothing room to see if there were any items we might want to purchase. Unfortunately, there wasn't anything in either of our sizes that worked for us this time. I plan to go back once in awhile, as they get donations in weekly.

While we were there, we went back to the food pantry to talk with the ladies there about what their current needs are. They said that what they really need right now were actually non-food items. They explained that food stamps do not cover any toiletries, paper goods, diapers, etc. Food stamps cover basic foods, and the food pantry may have a few items to offer, food-wise, but what about those items we use every day that aren't included? 

Here is a list they gave us:

One of the volunteers told us that her heart really goes out to the elderly, as they have such fixed incomes to begin with and what little money they have often goes toward medications or medical supplies. They may be able to get some of their basic food needs met through food stamps, but what about toothpaste or denture cream? What about toilet paper? What about dishwashing detergent? 

I have never had to receive assistance from the government to feed my family, but I will be honest and tell you that I have come close to applying for food stamps a couple of times. There is nothing like that sinking feeling that comes when you look into your pantry and refrigerator and don't know what you will feed your kids. And to not have the basic toiletries and items that we, in America, consider necessary. That is stressful. I have certainly learned how to be more resourceful, and of course I asked over and over for wisdom from God, which He always gives. But sometimes there are just no resources. 

I am thinking more and more about how to help the dear people in my community. I know the statistics of those who are on government assistance are more staggering than ever. People are in need. Those of us who have access to resources can help. 

After leaving F.I.S.H., Ben and I went to the grocery store, and I was thrilled to find coupons at the kiosk for laundry detergent and fabric softener for brands that were already on sale. Score! I hope to also visit the dollar stores within the next week to get a few other things. Our budget is limited, but I am compelled to help.

And of course, while we are out picking up toothpaste and diapers, we can also throw a jar of peanut butter and a couple of boxes of mac and cheese into our carts, too, don't you think?! 

I can't think of a better Christmas gift to give.

Blessings and love. xo