A: Is for Arts and Crafts!

Fall in New York means it's time for the annual craft fairs. One of the most celebrated is right outside my door and I can even see it out my window. CRAFTS ON COLUMBUS is an event showcasing jewelry, clothing, art and home decor compliment the foliage. From 77th to 81st streets around the Natural History Museum on the Columbus side, talented venders show their wares. This is the perfect place to find that unique gift for the holidays. This fair goes on every Saturday and Sunday rain or shine the month of October. Highlighted here are some of my favorite reasons to spend a pleasant weekend strolling on the UWS.

Seymour Mondshein and Lisa Martin have created unique handmade backpacks, purses, and fashion forward bags created in leather, tapestry and nylon. This is Maple Leather Company and Great Bags first time at the Columbus fair due to the renovations going on at Lincoln Centre and it is to our good fortune. This is craftsmanship and skill rarely seen, that is only passed down from generation to generation. It is obvious that these two artisans love what they do, for it shows in every item. These designs evolve into many different styles and shapes. Striving to create works of lasting beauty and design which are both durable and functional, this company succeeds in every way. Each bag is designed to provide the user with maximum convenience, comfort, and style and I love the organizational pockets and key holders that most of the collection carries. All these bags are proudly made in the U.S.A. My favorite is a bag called the collectable, which is 3 bags in one. I am now proudly an owner. Made in tapestry and nylon it is light weight and offer design and function. "Maple Leather Company" offer a distinctive look and style that allows New Yorkers to look their best.

Kizmet Yogawear is a high quality, upbeat clothing line for the fashion and body conscious athlete in us all. It is clothing used as a canvas and infuse with inspiration from beliefs, ideas & references from different sources. The Lotus flower is often referred to as the seat of empowerment & associated with the bounty of the earth. The Om is representative of the eternal balance of the elements, along with mind and body. Ganesha Hindu is the Deity of success, knowledge & wisdom. The Buddha image is a reflection of Compassion. Namaste' The honoring of one divine spirit to another. The Bamboo stalks for good fortune & happiness. I love this urban wear and vibrant yoga wear line made from the softest cotton/ spandex and the sheerest jersey cotton available. Their belief that we are truly one world all striving for peace, love and happiness in our own way and I for one support that.

Stepanka Horalkova’s creates beautiful ceramics. I have passed by her booth and always admired her craftsmanship. Self-taught ceramic artist born in the Czech Republic who now lives in New York. Her work is all hand built, mainly using slabs, and range from standing vessels, standing abstract forms, wall pillow forms, spheres and functional ware. If looking for a new mug to add to your collection, here is one that will make drinking your morning coffee or tea a artistic expression and that is a F.A.C.T.