from the Sci-Fi Loving Shut-In

May our cups runneth over with love

by Greg Vineyard

Ah, the day of Love. And this year it falls on a Tuesday — how exciting! Tuesdays need that something more to make them less… Tuesdayish. So this is your year to make it happen.
OK, I don’t really know what I’m talking about because I stay in watching movies like Outlander, but I know that aside from saving the universe from aliens, it’s all about connection. And diamonds, right? Made you nervous just now, didn’t I?

But wait, this is Asheville, land of amazing, handmade arts and crafts, performance, literature, farm-to-table foods, microbrew and outdoor adventure! So many choices as you search for just the right gesture to celebrate love, family and friendships. And not just for Her. There’s a lotta Hims, Thems and Friends that might be on your list. Romance. Bromance. Neighbors. Knock yourself out!

Having trouble deciding? Ask yourself: “What would I like?” Aside from the entire Farscape series on DVD (which I just got, so don’t run out on my account!), of course I recommend ART. Local art makes for a fantastic gift. For your loved ones who really enjoy shopping for themselves, perhaps a gift certificate. Or art instruction for two to create a memorable art Date Night. (Think of the pottery scene in the movie Ghost.) (OK, now STOP thinking about the pottery scene in the movie Ghost.)

Since Asheville has an incredible food scene, dinners — whether out on the town or home-cooked using local ingredients — are artistic in their own way. And of course Asheville is home to many fine jewelers, should you want to get down on one knee while holding up something shiny in a velvet box… Seriously, what’s with the nervousness??

A suggestion for those on the search: how about a hand-made coffee mug? You are SO in the right town. My morning tea is always in a mug made by a local artisan. Artistic types are inspired by their artistic cups. In my current rotation are unique works by Patty Bilbro, Jennifer Moore and Tim Turner. Gift mugs can hold treats, love letters, friendship notes, gift cards, special teas and coffees, chocolates… and even rings. Yes, I alluded to the ring thing again. Why are you sweating??? Just breathe.

Ironically, one of my favorite Valentine’s gifts in this category isn’t handmade… When I was growing up, on Valentine’s morning there would be a card and a gift at each of the kids’ places at the breakfast table. In the early 80’s, I received a heart-covered cup, which you see in this month’s photo. This mug has traveled with me over great distances. It’s just as important to me as any handmade piece I own. Like a responsible museum curator, I have retired it from too much handling and take very good care of it.

Valentine’s Day makes me think of my eclectic combination of favorite, personally meaningful things, from new art to old, treasured pieces, like my heart mug. All together, these keepsakes bridge my past and present.

I offer up the thought that you can trust the universe to guide you to the right gift; go anywhere in our town and just start walking. ‘Cause it’s not just the item given, but the act of giving itself, that fuels good feelings and promotes memories that serve as a resource for renewal and connection.
Happy Valentine’s Day — and don’t forget to pick up something for yourself!