FAITH, FANCY, POETRY AND ROMANCE TO MAKE GLAD OUR HEARTS

Eight-year-old Virginia O'Hanlon wrote a letter to the editor of New York's Sun, and the quick response was printed as an unsigned editorial Sept. 21, 1897. The work of veteran newsman Francis Pharcellus Church has since become history's most reprinted newspaper editorial, appearing in part or whole in dozens of languages in books, movies, and other editorials, and on posters and stamps.


"DEAR EDITOR: I am 8 years old. Some of my little friends say there is no Santa Claus. Papa says, 'If you see it in THE SUN it's so.' Please tell me the truth; is there a Santa Claus?"

[TO] VIRGINIA O'HANLON.
115 WEST NINETY-FIFTH STREET

VIRGINIA, your little friends are wrong. They have been affected by the skepticism of a skeptical age. They do not believe except [what] they see. They think that nothing can be which is not comprehensible by their little minds. All minds, Virginia, whether they be men's or children's, are little. In this great universe of ours man is a mere insect, an ant, in his intellect, as compared with the boundless world about him, as measured by the intelligence capable of grasping the whole of truth and knowledge.

Yes, Virginia, there is a Santa Claus. He exists as certainly as love and generosity and devotion exist, and you know that they abound and give to your life its highest beauty and joy. Alas! how dreary would be the world if there were no Santa Claus. It would be as dreary as if there were no VIRGINIAS. There would be no childlike faith then, no poetry, no romance to make tolerable this existence. We should have no enjoyment, except in sense and sight. The eternal light with which childhood fills the world would be extinguished.

Not believe in Santa Claus! You might as well not believe in fairies! You might get your papa to hire men to watch in all the chimneys on Christmas Eve to catch Santa Claus, but even if they did not see Santa Claus coming down, what would that prove? Nobody sees Santa Claus, but that is no sign that there is no Santa Claus. The most real things in the world are those that neither children nor men can see. Did you ever see fairies dancing on the lawn? Of course not, but that's no proof that they are not there. Nobody can conceive or imagine all the wonders there are unseen and unseeable in the world.

You may tear apart the baby's rattle and see what makes the noise inside, but there is a veil covering the unseen world which not the strongest man, nor even the united strength of all the strongest men that ever lived, could tear apart. Only faith, fancy, poetry, love, romance, can push aside that curtain and view and picture the supernal beauty and glory beyond. Is it all real? Ah, Virginia, in all this world there is nothing else real and abiding.

No Santa Claus? Thank God! he lives, and he lives forever. A thousand years from now, Virginia, nay, ten times ten thousand years from now, he will continue to make glad the heart of childhood.

With sincere thanks to my beautiful granddaughters: the Devine Ms. D and our new little AYngel;

to me, they are pure joy, true wonder, and my delighted hope for the future!

Happy Christmas, all.

Holiday Hours for the Market at Serendip

The holiday shopping season has been so much fun for us at Serendip! Our customers have been wonderful, full of the joy of the season. We have wonderful art, crafts, and gift ideas from our long-term artists as well as some great new ones! Please stop by!

We've modified our hours a bit to try to accomodate all your holiday shopping needs. These are our operating hours for the happy holli-days ahead!!

Wednesday, 12/21 ***** 10:00 - 8:00

Thursday, 12/22 ***** 10:00 - 8:00

Friday, 12/23 ***** 10:00 - 6:00

Saturday, 12/24 ***** 10:00 - 3:00

***** Closed Christmas *****

Monday, 12/26 ***** 10:00 - 6:00

Tuesday, 12/27 ***** 10:00 - 6:00

Wednesday, 12/28 ***** 10:00 - 8:00

Thursday, 12/29 ***** 10:00 - 8:00

Friday, 12/30 ***** 10:00 - 6:00

Saturday, 12/31 ***** 10:00 - 3:00

***** Closed New Years Day *****

Monday, 1/2 ***** 10:00 - 6:00

SPECIAL ATTENTION FOR SERENDIP!

Some time ago, reporter/writer Garth Bishop, who writes for Columbus City Scene magazine, said he was working on an article on unique gifts. He asked for some photos of Jim Burrowes' work. (His wife Jennifer Bishop is one of Serendip's photography members and he'd particularly noticed Jim's work when we last visited.)


It came to my attention today that we did get a mention in City Scene, so I wanted to pass it on to you all.


Hope you can check out this link and look at page 23--http://issuu.com/thepublishinggroupltd./docs/cityscenedecember2011?mode=window&backgroundColor=%23222222


Many thanks to Garth Bishop for his support of local businesses... and to woodturner Jim Burrowes for his sensational art!

SERENDIPITOUS HOLIDAY HAPPENINGS!

There are some very special events coming up at Serendip that are sure to make your holiday season one to remember!

Powell Night Out is December 1 from 5-8pm. Evening shopping in downtown Powell will be brightened by luminaries, and will include special sales and discounts from a variety of merchants. Serendip will offer refreshments and free gifts with purchase.

Don't be surprised to find Santa Claus strolling around-- he loves to visit Powell!

Serendip's private Customer Appreciation Parties will be held Wednesday, December 7, and Thursday, December 8, from 7pm-10pm-- you're welcome either night, or both. The artists of Serendip invite their friends and special customers to stop by for wassail & wine, refreshments and gift drawings, some special discounts, and a terrific shopping experience. Barbara Crockett will provide the music, you'll have a chance to meet the artists, and everyone will provide the fun!

On December 10, from 10-12; Andrea Gorzitze will offer a last-minute-handmade-gift class. This basic-level class will teach you to knit a fabulous ruffle-scarf, ready to gift or keep for yourself! The class is $28 per person; Andrea will bring several yarn choices for an additional $10-$25/kit. Bring your knitting needles, or Andrea will have some to borrow. Knitting experience or NO experience is fine. Just call Serendip to pre-register.



We're looking forward to celebrating the season with you. Please join us!!

INDULGENCES

The Market at Serendip has just introduced Sakura Bath and Body products. As the artisan, Michelle Lewis, says, "what woman doesn’t enjoy a spa experience?"

"I am a mother of four, three beautiful boys and my occasionally childlike husband. By day I teach Anatomy & Physiology, Biology and Cosmetology Science to over 100 high school students. Once I am home and spend some valued time with my kids and husband, I am ready for some ‘me’ time and that is what Sakura Bath & Body is for me. My childhood love of baking also inspires me – making bath and body products is like baking without the calories!"


Indulge in a delicious, skin-nourishing bath or shower with Sakura Bath & Body's Emulsifying Sugar Scrub, which gently exfoliates your skin while nourishing and moisturizing with rich oils and butters!





Sakura's Whipped Cream Soap is a smooth and velvety treat for your bath or shower! Enriched with Sweet Almond Oil, it is Vegan friendly and paraben free. Use a dab of this smooth whipped cream soap and it will turn into a creamy, foamy lather that nourishes your skin!

Goat’s Milk, Honey and Shea Butter lotion is a soft, smooth, light cream that will hydrate your entire body. This rich, creamy lotion will leave your skin feeling powdery smooth!

Spritz a little Refreshing Protein Hair Mist on your hair: it will remove tangles and nourish your hair, while providing a light perfume. Aloe, sea salt and collagen will hydrate and strengthenyour hair; it also boosts limp hair, by giving it more body and definition! For those with oily hair, Refreshing Protein Hair Mist is a perfect as a leave-in conditioner; while dry or coarse hair is revitalized by it!

The smoothing and refreshing sensations are amazing, and wait till you smell the fragrances! Sakura's Bath and Body line are indulgences for your senses!!

ABSOLUTELY AMAZING!!

We just installed a fabulous selection of breathtaking yet practical handmade leather handbags by Tuscada!!



From small to large, the selection includes leather wristlets to clutches, hip bags and messenger style shoulder bags. These beautifully unique bags incorporate cow leather, deerskin, or hand dyed goatskin. Each purse design is dictated by the size, shape and contours of each hide, always keeping in mind the beautiful raw edges of each piece of leather. Many of these purses have a detachable 'flower', that can double as a hat pin or brooch.

You absolutely must come in to get one of these Tuscada bags for yourself, even before you think of gift-giving! Finely crafted, thoughtfully designed, and absolutely one-of-a-kind, these handbags are simply must-haves!

...WE CONTINUE TO GET NEW TREASURES

Over the weekend, The Market at Serendip received some wonderful additons to our collection!

Connie from Conjiagua Jewelry brought in some dazzling new earrings to complement her array of gorgeous necklaces. Handcrafted from semi-precious stones and bold metals, you'll find each Conjiagua jewelry piece a show-stopper!

WELCOME APPLESPROUT STUDIOS!

Just wait till you see the whimsical, colorful prints by Cortney North of Applesprout Studios!



Clever critters of all sorts, from jungle animals to farm favorites and so much more!



Cortney watercolors her papers, then cuts them into shapes and affixes them to their background, designing prints that are ideal for the nursery, a kid's playroom, even your kitchen or bath! Stop and capture some of this "wild" collection for yourself!

YES, YOU CAN PAINT!!

Michelle Morris, one of Serendip's watercolor artists, has scheduled her watercolor greeting card workshop!

All experience levels are welcome to come create unique and personalized greeting cards. Offered on Saturday, October 29, from 10am-12pm, this session will be a terrific way to learn a new skill and to ease into the holiday spirit!!

The class fee is $25 and includes materials to create two cards. Call Serendip for more information or to sign up; 614-358-2784!

ENTERTAINING DETAILS

Whether it's a family dinner, or a party with friends, a great event is made by the details!

At Serendip, you'll find unique and beautiful accessories to add a special touch to your gathering...


Whimsical Wire embellishes serving utensils with sparkling bling that includes vintage jewelry components-- each one uniquely beautiful and ready to party!







LP Designs offers bold handpainted oilcloth table runners-- perfect to add pizzaz to your table or buffet.



In addition to fantastic black-on-ivory tile coasters, Serendip offers Fifi Papers' colorful coasters in assorted designs.

Barbara Crockett's hand-turned wood pepper mills are works of art that add color and style to any setting.

Next time you entertain, don't settle for anything drab-- come to Serendip for the unique details that make your party shine!!

Friend to Wildlife

The Market at Serendip offers some very special art for your consideration.

You'll find five works by local artist Brooks Michael McMahon. The most notable to me is the posterized painting of Roxy, the well-known fox who lives at the Ohio Wildlife Center. This oversized print is vividly compelling, and captures Roxy's half-wild, but almost domestic, personality.

Roxy is now priced at 30% off, as are Michael's other four works at Serendip.


Michael McMahon passed away unexpectedly on June 1, at the age of 52. Serendip now offers Roxy, as well as the other remaining pieces by this talented artist, at 30% off, as we want to sell the pieces quickly and contribute the proceeds to his memorial fund.

If you're a fan of exceptional wildlife images, or if you appreciate Michael's work... or if you simply love unique and beautiful art... please stop in and consider incorporating Michael McMahon's work into your life.

ARTISTS' TENT SALE JULY 7!!!

What a spectacular opportunity to see an expanded selection of original work, meet the artists, and find some of your favorite art and crafts with special discounts!

The artists of Serendip are putting together an Artists' Tent Sale on Thursday, July 7, from 2:00-8:00 p.m. here in the yard at Serendip. You'll find discounted jewelry, original paintings, photographic art, mosaic garden accents, and much more!

Held in conjunction with July's Powell Night Out, in historic Powell from 5-8 that evening, the Artists' Tent Sale will include free lemonade and snacks. Plan to stop by!

WATERCOLORS WITH A LOCAL FLAVOR

We are so excited to announce the addition of Karen Groeniger, of Powell, to our group of fantastic fine artists. Karen's work is internationally collected and encompasses a wide variety of styles and subjects, from abstracts to tradition, from local scenes to florals and beyond...

As pictures are always worth more than words, let me just share:

FIRST DAY OF SUMMER

In the Northern Hemisphere, summer solstice begins on Jun 21 2011 at 1:16 P.M. EDT. The longest day of the year, it's also considered the first day of summer!

All through time, humans have celebrated the beginning of summer in various ways:

Ancient Pagans celebrated Midsummer with bonfires, when couples would leap through the flames, believing their crops would grow as high as the couples were able to jump.

In Ancient Sweden, a Midsummer tree was set up and decorated in each town, and the villagers danced around it.

The Celts celebrated with bonfires that would add to the sun's energy, Christians celebrated the feast of St John the Baptist towards the end of June, and it is also the festival of Li, the Chinese Goddess of light.

At Stonehenge, revellers still gather to see the sun rise...

How will you celebrate the first day of summer? Why not welcome summer with new art and decor from Serendip?

LP Designs offers these delightful glass panes, fresh and pretty for your summer windows.

This French Pot from Rush Creek Mosaics is great indoors or out, filled with flowers or on its own to accent.

Carol Fiorella's most recent offering is this watercolor of a tulip in soft, airy colors to complement the fresh, open decor of summer.

Handpainted oilcloth tablerunners offered by LP Designs will bring the sheer fun of summer to every meal!

IN MEMORIUM

It is with great sadness that I report that one of Serendip's fine artists, Michael Brooks McMahon, passed away unexpectedly on June 2.

Michael's warmth, humor, and exceptionally beautiful wildlife art have been valued additions to the Serendip group. He also created popular clutch bags from woven recycled magazines.

Michael was committed to his children and family, his art, the Ohio Wildlife Center, and his dogs (in no order but mine).

I will accept donations in the shop for the Michael McMahon Trust, to help provide for his minor children. Michael's art will remain for sale at Serendip until further notice. Proceeds will go to the trust/family, of course.

My memory: Michael, as he was leaving the shop, quipped (with an ironic glint in in his eye), "Live creatively". I laughed at him then, but now I'm adding it to my personal philosophy.

Thank you, Michael. Rest in peace.

JUNE'S POWELL NIGHT OUT

It's almost time for Powell Night Out again-- Thursday, June 2, from 5:00-8:00 p.m. Many of historic downtown Powell's merchants will stay open late and give you LOTS of great reasons to visit that night!

The Market at Serendip has an especially fun incentive to visit:

Appearing live on Serendip's front porch for Powell Night Out:

3C Highway!!

3C Highway is a local musical group that plays the classics from Twinkle Twinkle Little Star for youngsters, to Don’t Get Around Much Anymore for Senior Citizens.

The unique sound of 3C Highway’s repertoire, performed by Keys, Sax, Guitar, Bass, Drums and Vocals, takes the audience on a musical road of the classics: love songs, dance band numbers, light jazz, country, cajun, New Orleans style, Rock and Roll, and folk songs.

Make plans to visit Powell Night Out and join us for the fun!!

Psst... it's almost Mothers Day!

Looking for unique gifts for the special women in your life? With ever-changing merchandise, we've added lots of great new original art and artisan crafts to Serendip, giving you a huge array of wonderful choices!

We recently welcomed the work of Jane and Kim, who refurbish vintage furniture into better-than-new pieces for your home. We also have a beautiful selection of blown glass by Kyle Hood, clutch purses from Lea Ann O'Brien, and a fantastic array of handmade jewelry by Nancy Lacke/AdoreJules, Connie Halon/Conjiagua, Laura Neal Designs, Kristy Sickles/Daisy Mae, Lynn Thomas/Rin and Sammie, Daryl Roche, and Elizabeth White.

You may not have seen our offering of glorious garden planters for your yard-- they make great gifts with their lush, brilliant colors. Rush Creek Mosaics offers home accents and planters embellished with mosaics made from vintage finds. Indoor/outdoor pillows by MPM Designs in vibrant colors complete a lovely garden setting.

We even have honey for your honey-- MockingBird Meadows' Coffee Infused Honey is here!

I don't think the blog will fit everything we have in store for Moms and your other special women! Just for fun:
candles, candleholders, embellished servingware, turned wood sculptures, contemporary clocks, suncatchers and chimes, glass globes, pottery, bottle stoppers, turned pens and pencils, throw pillows, scarves, aprons, bags and totes, wall vases, blown glass, photographic art, greeting cards, silk floral arrangemeents, turned wood peppermills and bowls, survival bracelets and leather bracelets, hairbows, magnets, necklaces, earrings, vinyl wall decals, bookmarks, clutch purses, accent lamps, decorated notebooks and memo pads, journals, soaps, commemorative birthday hats, poster art, original paintings, wood vases, glass vases, decorated tea towels, headbands, diaper cakes, knitted baby items, rings,signed prints, earrings, furniture, carved folk-art animals, wine bottle lights ,painted glassware, napkin rings, dog collars, some things I'm not sure how to describe quickly, and many things I'm sure I've missed.

The important thing to note, though, is that Serendip is filled with lovely surprises at every turn. For a one-of-a-kind gift, be sure to stop in!

FORGET THE RAIN! FORGET THE RAIN! FORGET THE RAIN!

As you enter Serendip, you enter a world of lush blooming flowers, cheery outdoor pillows, unique mosaics, and art that bring sunshine to your soul.

Leslie has added a grand grouping of spectacular blooming baskets, flowering planters, and colorful floral accents. They are perfect Mothers Day gifts, garden starters, patio treats, or pick-me-ups against the rain!

Accenting these beautiful plants are Phyllis Baker's handcrafted throw pillows. Offered in vibrant indoor-outdoor fabrics, these pillows will brighten your porch swing, deck furniture, or outdoor rocking chairs.

Rush Creek Mosaics has introduced a grouping of vintage vessels and furniture embellished with bright and whimsical fragments of art. The shabby chic furniture, vintage bean pots, and decorative plant buckets are a welcome additon to your outdoor (or indoor!) living!!

BIG FUN IN MAY AT SERENDIP!

We have some wonderful things coming up at Serendip!

First, you'll want to plan on attending the Powell Street Market on May 1, between 9:00 am and 5:00 pm. The plans call for 125 vendors lining Powell's historic streets, offering antiques, collectibles, art, crafts, and food. And, of course, Serendip will participate enthusiastically, with Jim Burrowes and Barbara Crockett showing off their woodturning skills. Susie Lowder will expand her collection of vibrant, gorgeous paintings onto our front lawn. Finally, we'll be offering lots of new products and exciting spring merchandise beginning that day!

And, of course, Mothers' Day is coming. Don't forget to stop by Serendip for unique gifts for the special women in your life! On May 2, we'll start registering you for a chance to win a fantastic Serendip gift basket, with a selection of items to make your mother smile. The basket will include handcrafted jewelry, original art, home accent items, and so many fun treats...

Then comes Powell Night Out, on May 5 from 5-8. Barbara will provide her lovely flute serenades, and we'll make sure you have some refreshments while you enjoy strolling through historic downtown Powell's unique shops, galleries, and restaurants. Plan to come to town and stay late!

Spring CORK AND CANVAS Schedule

Jenny Float has brought us her newest Cork and Canvas Painting Class schedule! Lots of new paintings to try and fun to be had. Bring a beverage and a snack, if you'd like, and join us for a night of creativity. Each class is $40 and includes all materials you'll need to walk out with a finished painting. Also, Jenny has extended her offer to buy 3 classes/get one free... you can fill your entire home with art!

Please contact the shop to register or email jenny (jennifer.float@yahoo.com) so we can be prepared with class size.

Birdland: Acrylic on Canvas Monday, April 18 6-9

My Starry Nite: Acrylic on Canvas Tuesday, April 19 6-9

Lady Day: Acrylic on Canvas Monday, April 25 6-9

Spring Lovelies: Acrylic on Canvas Wednesday, April 27 6-9

Joy: Acrylic and Mixed Media on Canvas Tuesday, May 10 6-9

Sweet Memories: Acrylic, Mixed Media on Canvas Thursday, May 12 6-9

Beautiful Butterflies! participants will be given 2 canvas boards Acrylic and

Mixed Media on Canvas Board Monday, May 16, 6-9

Breeze: Acrylic on Canvas Board Tuesday, May 24 6-9

Blue Birds: Acrylic on Canvas Wednesday, May 25 6-9

Jazz Trio: Mixed Media on Wood Thursday, May 26 6-9

Powell Night Out in downtown Powell!

The first Thursday of each month, downtown merchants will get together to offer entertainment, special discounts, and great times at POWELL NIGHT OUT. Tomorrow night is the first of the season, and here's a rundown of the offerings I've heard of so far:

...Shyne will be offering all of their Marie Osmond products at 40% off along with a free Marie Osmond accessory with every Marie purchase!
...The Candle Lab will be featuring their Rain scented candle for only $10 (regularly $15) in keeping with April Showers! They will also be providing an acoustic guitarist for the evening.
...b-rose Beauty Bar will offer special discounts for the evening.
...Krysty Designs will have face painting throughout the evening on their patio, and live acoustic guitar music!
...Blackberry Patch Antiques will offer customers one night only specials!
...Receive a free gift with every purchase at Cute as a Button (while supplies last), and enjoy music by "The Charmers".
...Paris Flea Market will give you $5 Off any purchase of $25 on April 7th.
.... and of course, Serendip will offer the usual light refreshments, good company, and Jim Burrowes' demonstration of the art of woodturning.... See the post below for details on this remarkable artist.

POWELL NIGHT OUT!! Thursday, 4/7, 5-8 pm!!

The Market at Serendip is so excited about our season’s first POWELL NIGHT OUT, Thursday, April 7, from 5 – 8 p.m. Serendip will offer our usual light refreshments, but best yet, we’ll offer an artist demonstration on our front porch!

Jim Burrowes, a native of the Dayton area, has worked with wood most of his life. He has worked in construction, furniture building, and, most recently, woodturning, which began as a hobby and quickly became a passion. His work has earned both local and national recognition. Jim is in demand as a woodturning instructor and demonstrator. He is a member of the Ohio Valley Wood Turners Guild, Central Ohio Woodturners and The American Association of Woodturners, where he is listed as an instructor in the national directory. He teaches woodturning in his own studio, as well as at the John C. Campbell Folk School.

Jim has a passion for learning and a special gift for sharing his knowledge and techniques with others. It’s a joy to watch him work, listen to his jokes, and feel his love for the natural beauty found in wood.

NATIONAL WEEK OF THE OCEAN...

...is April 3-9, 2011. Kneisley Underwater presents a large selection of vividly colored, crisply clear underwater photographs to remind you of the oceans’ beauty and importance!

CHANGES EVERYWHERE!!

Wait until you see! Leslie from LP Designs has moved her gorgeous merchandise into Serendip and is pretty well settled-- and what a WONDERFUL addition she is to Serendip! With her carefully selected artisan work from around the country, we now offer an even more complete selection of original art to enhance your home. Colors, textures, contemporary pieces, traditional work, everything fresh and beautiful-- you must come experience the wonderful items we have in store for you now! In keeping with a new season and terrific additional merchandise, we are returning to our non-winter hours, beginning today. Those hours are

***Sunday noon-5:00***

***Monday 10:00-6:00***

***Tuesday 10:00-6:00***

***Wednesday 10:00-6:00***

***Thursday 10:00-8:00***

***Friday 10:00-5:00***

***Saturday 10:00-6:00***

Come in and see us soon!