Learning To Roll With The Punches -- The Big Six Oh !

I’m sure you’ve had one of those weeks – that time when it seems like everything is breaking down. My kiln malfunctioned this week. It’s been a faithful part of my studio for the last several years. I’ve taken it for granted that pressing a couple of programming buttons will yield the end results I plan and hope for. I loaded up shelves of glazed pots a few days ago, started the kiln, only to see a flashing "Err 1" message the following day. Bummer. 

After some exploration, phone calls to a local ‘kiln doctor’, instruction manual reading and testing, – I’ve determined which part has broken and affected the successful operation of the kiln- firing process. It’s a part called the thermocouple and gauges the correct temperature of the kiln as it fires up to almost 2000 degrees. 

I am capable of fixing the problem. Deep down I know this. I get nervous at first – trying to tackle a job I’ve never done before. I don’t want to screw it up. So I gather as much information as I can and double check the necessary tools and dive in. Usually, there is a positive outcome. If there isn’t, I know who to call. 

Have you ever caught a quick glimpse of yourself in a mirror or window reflection and thought -- "Oh my God, I look just like my mother/father ?!? I see so much of my mother and aunt in this recent photo of me. 

All of this relates to what is going on in my own life this week. Today I turn 60 years old. Words that come to mind: Amazing; What?; Time Flies; Gratitude; Breaking Down; Freedom; Happiness. Like my kiln (you know I had to go there!), with aging, I notice some of my body parts have begun to decline. This is natural. In my mind, I still feel young so sometimes I have to adjust the desired outcome to go around whatever isn’t quite working the way it used to. It may cause some trepidation at first, but as I move forward I learn to work around those faults and keep going. 

I don’t exactly feel old. 60 years has passed in a whoosh. The good news of the week has been plentiful as well.

 I’m thrilled that my clay art is now available at The Cooley Gallery in Leesburg, Virigina.  Chris Cooley is a potter and former NFL football player who owns this gallery/studio. The historic town is filled with shops, galleries and restaurants. Let me know if you visit, I think you'll have a great time!

I demonstrated making my yarn bowls at the "Urbn Market" this past Friday. I really enjoy showing how I create my art and engaging with attendees. I always ask people (especially the kids) to show me the bottoms of their shoes. If there is any kind of pattern there, I use a piece of clay to make a new stamp. Go look at the soles of your shoes in your closet. You’ll be amazed at some of the patterns you’ll find there!

In the studio, I thought of a new design for a recipe box. I’ve made one before but wanted to simplify the design. I’m happy with the results. The little heart on the front will hold a select recipe card when it is in use.

So I have a favor to ask. I love collecting recipes. Could you send me one of your favorites to share? My goal is to receive at least 60 new ones to add to my kitchen. You could just snap a photo if that makes it easy, or type it out in an email (claybylaura@gmail.com). Or even send me a link to a tried and true you like to make. Click here to begin. Thank you!

Push The Pause Button

As much as I love creating clay art in the studio and meeting customers at sales events, I also treasure family time. This coming week I am preparing for a Thanksgiving table of 18! I couldn’t be happier! Gathering together around a ceremonial meal complete with tried and true favorites and an experimental recipe or two – it’s a lot to be thankful for.  

I like the added bustle and hustle of grocery stores and markets. I like the ritual preparation of the meal. I even like to clean and organize the house in preparation for staging and serving the meal. It's a pause from my usual routine. The preparation gives me a chance to reflect and of course be thankful.

So here's one of our family Thanksgiving favorites! Please share some of your own family favorites with me. I love trying new recipes -- especially when they come highly recommended!

I hope you will have a chance to push the pause button in your own life this week. Despite all the crazy preparation for this American holiday, it is time to reflect, share gratitude and be together. 

Here's one of the largest bowls I ever made while working on the potter's wheel. I think it is a good size for the new recipe I'm planning to try while the family is gathered. It's a caramel corn recipe from a fellow potter/blogger 'Dr. Deb.' I follow her blog posts. Click on the photo above to get the recipe. You won't be disappointed!