If you live in the Portland area, try and stop by the Convention Center this weekend. Local arts groups are holding their annual guild shows. I spent all my money at theCeramics Showcase (and I could spend your money too, if you like) on gorgeous hand made clay art. There are also exhibits of handwoven cloths, metal work, wood work, beads, jewelry, and glass. Best part? All of them are free! There are demonstrations in all the areas and tons of ways to support your local art community. What could be a better way to use that "Economic Stimulus Package" that's supposed to start coming our way next week?! (Okay, food and shelter are also good ways to spend the money, but art is very tempting!)