Blob art: an easy and fun way to let the creative juices flow.
Despite the glowing yellow orb in the sky at present, the last few weeks have been downright dark. While the moisture is a welcome friend after the summer of earth thirst, it’s forced us to rediscover and find some new indoor activities to bide the time away from the screen over a long, dark, wet holiday weekend.
Our family partook in blob art paintings on Thanksgiving Day thanks to Methow Arts putting the bug in my ear (or link in my inbox). This was an easy and fun way to let the creative juices flow and share time with family in a new way. I never knew my mother-in-law had such talent!
Speaking of art, the current exhibit at Confluence Gallery challenged local artists to submit 10-by-10-inch pieces of monochromatic creations. Artists were able to choose any color(s) they desired, and what came forth is a vibrant rainbow as diverse as the artists themselves. Make a point to stop in a see the Riot of Color during Mistletoe Madness this Friday (Dec. 3) and shop with discounts available that night.
Twispmas will be on full display for Mistletoe Madness where, as always, local shops, galleries and eateries will be there with their fabulous wares. I hear there’s an ugly sweater contest at participating bars in town and Mr. and Mrs. Claus will be strolling the streets to spread the cheer. New this year is a Winter Market, so those who are mourning the loss of the bazaars, can find handmade gifts aplenty. Find the candy canes to mark the horse and carriage stops to travel back and forth on Glover Street whilst singing merry holiday carols. Friday from 3-7 p.m., Twisp is the place to be.
If you can’t make it to Twisp this Friday, here’s an idea. Go shopping hassle free, cut down on carbon emissions, and maybe even enjoy a cocktail guilt free while you shop. Take the TranGO. Last weekend, I boarded the TranGO in Twisp with a couple friends for a shopping excursion to Winthrop. Granted, I drive to Winthrop almost daily, but taking the bus was much more pleasant and cost effective (free right now). We had a lovely day shopping and enjoyed a bottle wine with comfort knowing we didn’t have to drive home.
Think about it. Do you really need to run that errand in your single-occupancy car? Or do you have some flexibility in your schedule to run your errands on foot and ride the bus home? The more we start doing this, the more normal it will be, the less emissions we spew, and more money to spend on other things. Busing also promotes walking, which is healthy. Besides, I am sure the bus drivers appreciate the company. So, I challenge the Winthropians, come visit Twisp via the bus, and vice versa for your holiday shopping!
Or come by horse. Yes, why not — it wasn’t that long ago each shop had a hitching post. There’s the potential for a growing generation of equestrians in the valley with the newly formed, first ever Liberty Bell High School Equestrian Team. The new team was coordinated by Angelyn Sheppard and will be coached by Tiffany Boyce-Scott. The team will participate and compete in Division 1 against other eastern Washington teams such as Chelan, Colville, Mead, Spokane and Wenatchee. Students in grades 9-12 can learn to ride English, Western and Ranching. Roping and dobbing cattle, an almost lost art, is encouraged.
Registrations are open and information will be available via Liberty Bell. Currently, the team is in search of a covered riding arena for the winter months. If you own or know of an unused arena, the team could use your help to get started for the season. Please contact Angelyn at (509) 860-7869 if you have intel on an arena that might be available to this new and exciting school team.
