Hannah Gandell took this photo of Maria’s first potholder lesson in India, the girls working on old foot pedal machines were deeply into it. The idea now is for them to make these potholders and ship them to America, so Maria can sell them here and send the money back to help women earn a living.

Maria is making potholder history, she loves to each and is passionate about helping these girls learn how to make free form art. Potholders for sale at The Open Houses, I think, and all year on our blogs. Dahn Gandell has already pledged $400 to buy the first batch of potholders and ship them here.

Make no mistake about it, this will cement Maria’s connection with India and these women, she will be back next year. She says I should come. I don’t want to step in her show, but I think I’d like to go. I’m beginning the search for a good farm sitter.

I was wavering about whether I could go or should go, but when I hear Maria’s excitement and see the photo possibilities, then I know I should go.