Maria’s new handbag. First one made for a 7-year-old girl. Note the pink and green.

December 21, 2009 – Christmas week. Things are slowing down. I will be happy when all of the online retailers stop advising me how many more days I have to order for Christmas. I think the thing about photography is to take photos of things you love, or of the things people you love create. Maria made this handbag for a 7-year-old and she is thinking making more next year, along with belts, placements and other functiona art made from vintage and discarded fabric. I’m into it, something I would never have been aware of before I met her.

It is always gift to be made aware of beautiful things that I was too dumb or blind to see. I think  these handbags will follow the example of the potholders and sail out into the world.

Other functional art: Mary Kellogg’s new book, “Whistling Woman.”

The Agricultural Stewardship Associations’ 2010 Calendar, proceeds to go conserve farmland.

And you are invited to come to my first photo show, “Portraits Of My Life,” reception 3 p.m., January 9, 2010, the Redux Art Gallery, Dorset, Vt.