Dungeon Time!

I've been keeping the Covid Blues away by spending time in the dungeon... the creative ideas just keep coming.   All will be available on the Primitive Handmades Mercantile tonight - please stop by at 8pm cst  <3

 

Ringing in Thanksgiving

 Covid has changed every normal event and my daily grind during 2020 and I've honestly felt worthless  - or is it helpless (?) at times.  As I was scrolling the internet one day, my eye caught a segment about volunteering for the Salvation Army. While I've always donated to the many buckets we encounter around town, the thought struck me that this was something I could do that is not about me in the slightest.
I went online and signed up for 2 hour slots for the next month - and yesterday was my first day.
It started off a bit rocky ... there was a fellow working the bucket in front of Hobby Lobby as I pulled into the parking lot and parked my car.  I approached him and happily announced that I was his replacement for the next shift!  Well, my grand announcement was met with a look of stunned bewilderment. He told me he was working a 5 hour shift and would not be done until 3pm.  I could tell he was not about to budge or give up his post and as we talked, I realized he was a paid ringer who was counting on those funds.  I let him know I would contact the Major to see if there was another kettle nearby that needed a volunteer and bid him a good day.
While I was waiting for a return call from the Salvation Army, what else could I do but go shopping!  So into Hobby Lobby I went, happily sorting through the crowded aisles for the items I was in search of.  And as I exited my shopping trip, I saw my new friend speaking to a lady and pointing to me.  (was I in trouble already? lol) 
Apparently the error was on their scheduling part - and they proceeded to set up another kettle for me to man at the opposite door.  I was thrilled to know I didn't screw up and drive to the wrong location. 
I happily put my purchases in my car and set off to find my bell and get busy!
I must say, I was so pleasantly surprised by my experience that day.  I greeted folks entering and exiting and played doorman for many during my shift.  With all fall items marked down 80%, there were a LOT of bags leaving the store and Hobby Lobby was even more crowded than normal. They actually had over half of their checkout lanes open ... a *rare* sight in itself!
And I must say... my afternoon shift restored my faith in people. Kindness is an easy thing to extend and 99% of the time, it is met with kindness in return. Many donated, whether it was a large bill or the widow's mite, all were met with thankfulness from me for helping me fill my bucket.  And most everyone I greeted extended the same grace in return.
I have decided to extend my month of volunteering to Christmas - or as long as they will have me.  I so enjoyed my afternoon and God gave me a feeling of worth that came from an act as simple as saying hello and opening a door.
I also might add.... since my retirement, I have gone soft.   lol.... I came home exhausted from standing in the warm sun for 2 short hours. 

New kids on the block

 I've been spending some time in the dungeon.  I call this piece "Starry Night" and while he is sold, I am happy to say I've been working on some new snow-kids.
I hope you will stay tuned for these Works in Progress  <3

Still Kickin in Missouri

I always enjoyed posting here and keeping up with friends, but over the past few years, it seemed that Facebook always took the majority of my "internet" time.   I'm gonna give it another go here - and hope to stay current with you all!  I have been spending much time in the dungeon and have a few new items that will be available. Wish me luck ... I don't want to chicken out on this!  :)