Today is the last day of vacation. Back to the J-O-B tomorrow. But, I don't mind. I am so lucky to have a job that I enjoy going to. Everyday is an amazing adventure at work. I am employed at an independant bookstore. But, we are so much more than that.
We take in all types of media and other stuff for trade/buy/sell. Our six Arizona locations ensure that we take care of our state-wide customers. As well as our out-of-state regulars. Let me explain what "stuff" means to us: books, magazines, video games, video game systems, hardware for vg systems, computer software and components, digital cameras and components, antiques ad collectibles, crafting supplies, art supplies, jewelry, ephemera and old photos, framed paintings and photography, toys, action/superhero figures, CDs, LPs, DVDs, VHS, audio cassettes, sheet music,comic books, RPG books and figurines, board games, jigsaw puzzles, household items, music instruments, furniture, memorabilia, oddities and the plain old weird! We evaluate everything brought in to us as to the sale-ability. If we think we can sell it, we'll take a chance on it. Of course, we look at condition or possible overstock issues. Some really fun and funny stuff comes through our doors.
As I said before, I enjoy going to work. I am blessed to get the opportunity to fill my "art larder" for alot less than I would pay in any store or online. And I have been given the opportunity to teach a couple of altered art classes, which are totally free to our customers. I am preparing to do a few more classes after the first of the year. We supply all the elements, our customers don't need to bring anything to the classes. I am also talking to one of our other locations about doing a class or two there. What fun!
I hadn't realized that I had the "teaching' gene. When I was given the chance to do my first altered art class I was so scared. I don't have any credentials in art or teaching. Who was I fooling? Ok, myself. But, surprise of all surprises. Some of the customers who came to my classes are accomplished artists or are already involved in creating altered art/mixed media. I was blown away by the comments they left. And requests for me to lead other classes. Talk about an ego boost. I can't wait to get back to it. I love teaching. And I found that I was really good at it. Teaching seems to come naturally. I feel over-whelmed with the need to pass on any and all information my brain cells can release. Wish I would've given this some serious thought back when going to college and becoming a teacher wouldn't have been a pipe dream. At almost 50, I don't see myself doing it. Guess I'll just settle for doing art classes at work. Fumbling my way seems to work for me! As long as my customers appreciate the community outreach and continue to show up, I'll volunteer to teach. Plus, it's so much fun.
I wasn't going to leave a link to our website but after thinking it over I decided it wasn't such a bad idea. Come see us at: www.bookmans.com
Stay safe,
redopal
4 comments:
Hope you enjoyed your holiday and enjoyed yourself.
like you i discovered the teaching gene, it makes such a difference when your students are enthusiastic about what they are learning, may not have been the same if you were teaching high school students!!
lucky thing, getting all those goodies.....
So glad you had a nice vacation. I'm leaving next Saturday for a week in Kentucky with my children, grandchildren, father and sister. Can't wait. Those cards are just fabulous!
Jeanie, These pieces aren't cards. The top one is canvas board approximately 7 X 9 inches. The Vino one is a canvas piece about 11 X 18 inches. I wish they showed up better, because they are very textured and the colors are muted and soft. The canvas piece has a stamped piece of mica incorporated into it. Really pretty. I like the Vino one alot.
Thanks for visiting. Have a great time with your family.
Blessings,
redopal
Hey, so glad I stopped by for a visit. I tried to click on these two wonderful pieces to get a close up but did not work for me. I love them Tina. Are these pieces yours alone or something all the class worked on? Hey, wish you were in my town, would take a class from you anyday...hmmmm, perhaps a tut down the road huh? Visited the bookman's site and impressive. Like the colors and layout. All seemed to say fun and busy (lot to offer). Have fun with time off.
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