For Fun and For Free

Free Is Good!

Do you love to get something for free, especially if it's something you want or need? When Central Market opened here in Fort Worth, we received an insulated grocery bag and some kitchen scissors for free! It was worth winding our way through the crowds. Plus, we bought a lot of great groceries and helped support our daughter who was working there at the time. We still shop there, many years later. That kind of free gift was valuable to us.

Fun Is Good

Do you like to have fun? What kind? I like fun but my idea of fun might be totally different from someone else's. I finally realized that I don't like clowns. I find them kinda scary so I avoid clowns and places with clowns. But, I do love other kinds of fun. I love to dance even though I can't do it. That's something I do in private! I love playing with dogs (and socializing with cats since they don't often play) in the neighborhood. I love playing with kids on Field Day at school. I love "dad" jokes even though I can never remember punch lines.

Free Isn't Always Free

Have you ever gotten one of those "come-ons" in the mail to get a free gift, maybe even something you really want? All you have to do is go see this timeshare or new development? Yikes! I'm not the kind of person who can say, "No," easily so I avoid those offers. To me, they aren't free at all. They cost time, effort, usually a lot of gasoline, and my emotional serenity. The "free" gift isn't worth it.

Sometimes I HAVE TO GIVE IT AWAY TO KEEP IT

What does that even mean? To me it means that creativity is a gift that was given to me for free and if I want it to continue being available to me, sometimes I need, and even want, to give it away. A few years ago I started following David Zinn on Instagram (@davidzinn), a very endearing sidewalk chalk artist from Ann Arbor, Michigan. His work always makes me smile, sometimes laugh out loud, and often amazes. I had some chalk because, what are grandmothers for except to keep lots of chalk around, so I thought I would try my hand at chalk art too. At first, I copied his designs, which he lovingly allows. I bought his book to learn any tricks of the trade (there aren't any). I was so surprised by the responses from my neighbors! They love chalk art! I could hear them from my art table. They were squealing, laughing, and sometimes they took pictures. The kids also make requests from time to time. Chalk art for me is both Fun and Free. I can't hold onto it and I love giving it away. It's always a learning experience and anytime I can make learning fun, that's a win/win.

I'm waiting for the weather to cool off before I get back out there on the sidewalks!

Thanks for reading this far. Now, go have some fun!

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To see some of my current non-chalk art works on display FOR FREE, please visit House of NeVille Gallery & Gatherings Wednesdays - Saturdays from 11:00 A.M. to 7:00 P.M. The current show is entitled "Reflection," and there are many talented artists on display. The show runs through December 14th, 2024.

2409 Neville Street, Fort Worth, TX 76107 | 817-454-4107 | neville2409@icloud.com

The House of NeVille also offers classes in a variety of subjects and is a venue for your entertainment needs (including a full kitchen)!

Until next time!

Betsy