Tuesday:) It Takes a Village…or a Community

“The greatness of a community is most accurately measured by the compassionate actions of its members.”

~Coretta Scott King

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McKinney Creative Community meets every second Monday of the month at 5:30ish, over at The Cove on Tennessee. It was so cold and blustery last night, that I thought for sure that not that many people would attend. The place was packed with artists, writers, musicians, web designers, friends, etc. (we even had a visiting puppy dog.) All were there for the same reason, to share food, friendship and information.

McKinney has the greatest arts community and the most wonderful artists and creative people on the planet. Maybe, even the universe, but I haven’t visited the rest of the galaxy to find out. Maybe one day?

All are welcome to attend these pot luck gatherings. You don’t have to be an artist or even think you are creative. But, if you attend, you certainly will leave feeling inspired, and maybe decide to take that pottery or jewelry class, or sign up for a dance or yoga class. It’s never to late to learn or try something new. And the best part is, you’ll make new friends.

I always like to post a picture of my brownies on the Facebook page, before they go in the oven. I’ve been told that that’s a good reminder and incentive for the gathering. Yesterday, I made Snicker-s’mores brownies. I used lots of leftover Halloween candy bars and marshmallows. Yum!

The first hour or so of our meeting is socializing, sharing yummy foods, desserts, and beverages. Then, we gather in a circle and just share our “New and Good.” It can be anything from taking a workshop, upcoming art shows, awards, or just a recent trip. My sharing was about my visit to Chicago to see my grand babies and visit family. We are all family here, sharing family news.

Our guest speaker yesterday was Molly Brewer from McKinney’s Arts Commission. Not only did we find out about the many projects and opportunities in McKinney, but also about the many grants available to various individual artists and art groups. Several suggestions and opportunities we would never have known about. Very informative.

As I’ve said a zillion times, there is so much to learn and so much to share in our community. It only takes that first step to say, “I want to expand my horizons.”

In December, many of the artists will be featured or attending the Tupps Brewery Holiday Art Bazaar. The perfect opportunity to purchase amazing local art and crafts at wonderful prices. Check it out.. oh yes… and have a beer or two while shopping and meeting the cool artists.