Spring Fling at The Birchwood Mall, Fort Gratiot, Michigan

March 29, 2025

I participated in a new-to-me mixed-media show at the Birchwood Mall recently. I'd never been there before, and wasn't quite sure what to expect. I've done shows at shopping malls in the past, and some of them didn't go so well. However, this time, I was pleased with the organization of the event, my space in the layout, the kindness of the other vendors, and the turnout of readers. It was a good day. 😊

Situated near Port Huron, almost (give or take a couple miles) directly across from the Blue Water Bridge at the Canadian boarder, it was an easy drive up. I was half-tempted to hang a right and continue on to make the four-hour drive to visit friends in Toronto... but alas, I had commitments and Charlie was home alone. So, that trip will have to wait. (Sorry, Caroline.)

The mall had easy access, a wonderful ramped loading dock very close to parking (no stairs or curbs to navigate!), and the booth areas were nicely spaced. I'm getting really good at "Tetris packing" and was able to get my tables, stool, books, and display accessories all on the cart for just one trip to and from the car! If you haven't discovered them yet, flat bungie cords are a tremendously helpful invention. Although, I forgot to bring one of my tablecloths this trip; but it wasn't a big deal. I've already tucked it into the box for my next event. There's always something.🙃

With a generous 10' x 10' space, I experienced none of the typical claustrophobia that can sometimes come with indoor events. Drake and I set up in a wonderful space, against a wall, directly behind the gigantic Easter display, complete with ducks, chickens, and a place for little ones to take a picture with The Bunny. Drake really wanted a photo... but we were so busy all day, we didn't have time to make it over there before Mr. Rabbit went home for the day.

I met a plethora of wonderful people, some of whom were tiny readers. I'm happy to report that Henry and Emmett made some new friends and got to go home with them. I sold several of my other books, too. It's always fun to meet readers, no matter their preferred genre, or even if they don't buy books from me. Simply talking about stories and the wonderment of books with people who enjoy them, is a wonderful thing. And, it's a bonus when I meet children who love books as much as I did at their age.

I only had two regrets at the end of the day: First, no photos with The Bunny; and second, because I did this show on my own, without a table buddy, I wasn't able to take time away from my table to ride the carousel, or play a gigantic game of chess, Sorry, and checkers. But now that I know this mall has these delightful things... I'll be sure to visit again... perhaps before taking that ride across the bridge on my next trip to Canada. 😉

Thank you to everyone who came and celebrated Henry's second event out in the wilds! We had a great time!