Recycled Treasures

Fall bring lots of street fairs, festivals and other outdoor events that allow us to take in the sunshine and cooler breezes (well, at least here in the mid-Atlantic region).  Today I enjoyed the beautiful October weather at Art on the Avenue in Alexandria, VA. Perhaps not new to artisans, but higher on our collective radar, were all the recycled items turned from trash to treasure in such creative ways. Like the tab-top purse I discovered in Maine this summer, today I found colorful bottle-cap magnets, glass-bottle bird feeders, and some gorgeous handbags made from vintage coats and book covers - just to name a few.  Of course there were lots of all-natural soaps, lotions and candles, jewelry, photography, paintings, apparel, woodwork and many other items made by local crafts-people, along with festive music, tasty treats (although I missed the pie contest!) and even some beautiful, hand crafted didgeridoos. Check your local arts calendar for street festivals - it’s a great way to get some sunshine, support local artists, participate or perhaps find a few treasures to take home.