FOUNDER'S DAY, A WEEKEND IN THE SWEET LAND

The talented Kelly Finch demonstrates creating a felted wool rug. Kelly makes lovely handicrafts and florals. I can't wait to see what she makes for the Union County Extension Homemakers Bazaar on Saturday, Nov. 19 in the Middle School. I'll be there too, thanks to Kelly.

Often it's the non-obvious thing someone says that inspires a column or blog. Here's a little story I didn't think at the time about telling, so I didn't get the lady's name.

While spending the weekend on the Union County Courthouse square  peddling books, I relished visiting other people's booths.

I bought a gift at the fiber-arts tent where several women were giving demonstrations and showcasing their beautiful handmade rugs, knitted, and crocheted pieces.

I struck up a conversation with a fiber artist in her 80s. I figured she was old-time Union County, but no. After a busy career and life in Ohio, she retired in her 70s and set upon a quest to relocate to a place of her choosing.

She found Liberty, Indiana, in an Internet search. Her main criteria? A spot on the map with a thriving fiber-arts organization. She found two in or around Liberty. Then she found a house that suited her, complete with wonderful drinking water from a well, something important to her. But here's what sealed the deal:  When she passed the courthouse and spotted the Templeton Cabin, she said that's it: She's moving to Liberty.

A decade later, she still loves it.

Isn't it interesting what connects someone to a place? For me, Liberty is home and history. But this woman had different criteria that suited her wants, needs, and dreams.

Thanks to the Founders Day Committee for including me, and a huge thanks to Kelly Finch for the invitation, encouragement and the use of a tent.

The fundraiser set a new record. Only one regret from me: I should have bid higher on the black lantern.

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Founder's Day Chairman Steve Logue demonstrates butter churning to some young "pioneers."

Bluegrass, Bicentennial and Boy Scouts: the local Scouts Honor Guard raised the flag daily and all stood for The Pledge of Allegiance. The Templeton Cabin was home to early (1805) pioneers.

Beans and books at my table.

On the square. Home and heritage. I enjoyed the relaxing atmosphere of a festival that honors our pioneer ancestors and showcases such old-time skills as butter-churning, juggling, fiber arts, canning, beekeeping, woodcarving and visiting.