Two Down, One To Go

Well, dear reader, week two of the Shaker Woods Festival is complete. I thank everyone who came out to the festival to support this wonderful group of artisans and talent. It takes a lot to plan an event, and I can't fathom what goes into organizing one of this magnitude, but Lana and Rob, the organizers, do an incredible job. We are very grateful to be part of this wonderful show. It has helped us to grow our audience, and we are so appreciative of all you do to help support us. 

When planning an event, there are certain aspects one cannot control, such as the weather. On Sunday, the woods had to be evacuated due to severe thunderstorms and the threat of a tornado. It was a fast exit from the woods for shoppers and vendors alike. This is the second time in our five years attending the show that the woods have been evacuated due to weather conditions. Unfortunately, this is part of the reality of doing live shows outdoors. When it comes to keeping that many people safe, it is best to err on the side of caution. Within half an hour, the woods were cleared of all shoppers. Within an hour, the woods were empty of most vendors.

The Bean and I were among the last to leave because we tried to pack up as much of our product as possible to protect it. However, once the wind began blowing, trees creaked and shook, branches fell, and the rain came down in sheets; we, too, erred on the side of caution and left the woods. In hindsight, it is best we did. We received an email on Sunday night stating that no one is permitted into the woods until at least Wednesday because there is so much damage. 

It's frustrating not to be able to button things up the way we would like, but in the end, it is just stuff. It's best not to be squished under a fallen branch for the sake of protecting a few jars of lotion and a few bars of soap. The Bean and I spent an extra night in Ohio because I did not want to drive through the high winds and driving rain. I'm happy we made that choice. A few of my friends messaged me to check on us. They said that it was like driving through Hurricane Katrina when it hit Florida. My girl and I spent the evening in a safe hotel room, joking around and watching HGTV and Hallmark.  We came home early Monday morning and got right to work. 

We have a lot to do during the week in order to get ready for our sunflower maze. I have blogs to write, painting to do, things to clean and arrange, and details to hash out. I am a bit stressed, but it will all come together. In the end, we have a lot of fun work to do, a safe place to call home, and a healthy, intact family. What more can one ask for? 

On this muggy August day, stay safe, be smart, prioritize, and keep washing your hands.