River Journey Series

My two favorite things in clay are textures, especially lace textures, and glazes that flow. The River Journey series has the colors from my whitewater rafting trips on the French Broad River, and this one captured that essence perfectly.

I may not go rafting for another month as I am still fragile, recovering from surgery. These colors still call to me, perhaps even more urgently as memories than as experiences in real time.  I think of that exhilarating moment going over rapids, scenery blurring, control suspended, and what it is to be no more than a leaf taken by a strong current. Isn’t it ironic that most of our lives are spent trying to get or maintain control, while the nanoseconds of exquisite joy occur during abandon and surrender. Perhaps this is why I layer 7-10 glazes and stack them in the kiln, never knowing what the heck will happen.

Like this one.

Creative Weddings

My niece, Cionne, was married on 6/27, under a beautiful hand built outdoor huppa in Chicago. Before I get all sentimental and philosophical, here’s a few pics of our family enjoying Chi town and the reception:

  

So today, Kelly and James dropped by to pick up the gifts ordered from their bridal registry. Here is the set they now own- 10 place settings of my Beach Cottage:

They shared some lovely pics from their wedding, with chic creative flourishes, all handmade, or purchased on Etsy. I am loving this trend towards creative weddings!

 

I loved James’ pinwheel buttonniere, purchased from rule42.  And look at the adorable handmade flower girl tutus!

I love how individual style is the rule these days. I wish both couples all the happiness that their hearts can hold. It’s such an honor to be a part of someone’s wedding- as a guest, and as the maker of their dinnerware, too!