“Community is a sign that love is possible in a materialistic world where people so often either ignore or fight each other. It is a sign that we don’t need a lot of money to be happy–in fact, the opposite.”  Jean Vanier

Oh! How can I express how wonderful the fundraiser for Vernon was this weekend?  It touched me so deeply that people not only came out to spend some Christmas money at the Craft Market, but that talented individuals (some that I didn’t even KNOW) donated their handmade wares for our cause. As an artist, I respect how much time and heart goes into each piece. One never gets back in dollars what one puts on in effort, but that isn’t the point. Its the GIFT of it, the giving, that counts.  I know Vernon will be equally moved when he understands this for himself! He will be so touched that people care so much for him, for US, that they keep coming together in such creative ways to help out.

Of course we still don’t know the monetary cost of this crazy season we’ve been in. There has certainly been a loss of income, and that is before hospital bills. But today money doesn’t matter to me. Its the beauty of connections, of creative giving, that sings in a voice higher than everything else. Today it feels, to me, beyond such earthly trapping of numbers and green papers.

About a month ago, a dear friend of mine, Jeff Girard, discussed the idea of a Craft Market over a coffee. He said that he and Pattie Herdell, owner of the  San Clemente Art Supply, had come up with the idea of a community-based fundraiser for Vernon.  We would get a few friends to donate some goods, and who knows? Maybe we would raise a thousand dollars?

At any rate, it would raise awareness of Vernon’s plight, and it would be a chance to get together and do something, when no one really knows what we should be doing at all? It has been 6 and a half months and we are all kind of at a loss of what to do next (especially since insurance and police are still not giving any official numbers, but the bills are certainly pouring in.)

Well, check out this little idea that became a big idea…

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even Justine’s Pre-K principal showed up!

Metal Letters cut out in Vernon’s Fonts: Pacifico and Oxygen.  Brilliant!

My self-appointed God-Father, Jeff (he may not like this moniker) at the till.  Chris’ grandparents hand-printed and sewed the flag.  We are nothing if not eclectic.

Festive joy and a bit of reggae. Why not? Can you spot the marvelous Andrea?

All generations welcome here!

What can I say? Just really cool stuff.

And good-looking people.

I understand we brought in over $5000.  Amazing. Heart-expanding amazing. I just said that money isn’t the most important thing. And it isn’t. But wow, it sure helps a LOT.

Thank you everyone…every step of the way.