This past weekend, we attended the two-day Old Town Art Show in St. Augustine, FL.
Two days before going, I received an email stating that they were expecting high winds up to 45 mph and suggested we purchase metal cork-screw dog leash tie-downs.
A trip to Ace Hardware to get supplies in addition to our 8 sandbags, totaling 200#. We were definitely glad we had the extra security. We also reinforced the suspended metal grids in the lower corners with bungees stretched to the side uprights.
Saturday began very breezy but increased throughout the morning. It was an unsettling feeling to hear the frames slapping against the grids that displayed them. Bits of dried grass were sprinkled over the tableclothes and artwork, settling in the grooves of the float frames. We could not keep up with making the work level.
Of all the weather conditions, I would have to say wind is my least favorite. The power of huge gusts hit the tent sides, pushing them in and out like billowed sails on the ocean.
Instead of ‘holding down the fort’, we were holding down the tent, standing ready on the two front corners, holding on, never quite sure what would give, including me.
Finally, I asked Michael if he could find me a latte. I had already scoped out Travelin’ Tom’s Coffee Truck!
When he returned with my cup, he unwrapped a brownie that our friend Tomi had packed for us. One bite of this ultimate brownie, if there is such a description, soft in the middle, light crunch on the outside, salty and nutty, along with my creamy latte, I escaped from the sounds and actions around me.
I enjoyed my gourmet chocolate indulgence, which comforted me in this scenario as I ate and drank, with one arm wrapped around a tent post, steadying myself.
Around 2:00 p.m., we were told to pack up and secure our work. We packed everything in their bubble wrap sleeves and placed them in the plastic containers on top of our tables.
That night, we were called to come down to the festival grounds because a post had slipped. The zippers had skipped up on many tents, like ghostly cubicles with outstretched capes under street lights, as we fixed our tent in the rain.
The next day, the wind was not quite as bad. Threatening dark clouds, but thankfully, the rain held off, and we were able to stay until closing.
The sweet escape of eating my delicious brownie on a windy day was the comforting power I needed to brave myself under blustery conditions. Thank you, Tomi!
Have you ever found a snack or treat that is a reminder of finding joy in the little things? What was yours? Please feel free to leave your comment below.
