Happy New Year.... a few reflections on 2008

Happy New Year to all! I'm back from my vacation in the North Cascades and am busy cleaning, organizing, and looking for a job. (the first two are much easier than the last). I thought my first post would include a few reflections on 2008. First, above is where I made 16 pots while on vacation in the Cascades. More about that later. Can't see it, but there are lots of feet of snow outside. A few of my cups are at the right of the pic. This was such a peaceful place- a glimpse of heaven! Maybe I'll have my own studio someday?

First, I wouldn't ever have imagined that I'd have a blog. Thanks, Becky for encouraging me to do this. It's been a great decision.

I'm also thankful that I've gotten to know so many caring and generous people at Clayworks. My pottery friends are wonderful. One of the best parts of 2008.

+ I'm also thankful for the ability and interest to travel. I've visited some great places, including Holden Village. I took 237 pics there and spent the last days of 2008 and in early 2009 wearing these.

My snowboots (they still look new, don't they?), and more importantly, the snow. Some people never leave their home state; I love that God has given me an adventurous spirit. Will post some of the pics from my trip soon.

+ I'm also thankful for faith... that is the most important; without it, I have no idea where I'd be.
+ Pottery-wise, I'm amazed at how much I learned in 2008. Slips, glazes, raku, barrel firing, and more. Even sold a few pieces. Never ever imagined I'd be as good as I am or that I'd be into pottery at all. Now my apt. and my life is filled with pottery. I have loved barrel firing too. Greg and Ron have been great teachers, too. I think in 2008 I improved the most in pot-making. Hope to do some more raku and work on some more forms in 2009. Hope to sell more pots in 2009 too. :) Maybe someday, I'll make a living of this. I have great dreams of days ahead filled with pottery. I even made 16 while on vacation! :) Hard to stay away.

+ I have loved listening to st. olaf choral music (thankful for the ability to hear)... I just bought the St. Olaf Choir's Christmas CD, (My Spirit Sings of Wondrous Things) so I must admit that I'm still listening to Christmas music. It's my annual christmas gift to myself. It's on my bucket list ( have you seen the movie?) to hear them in person, so that may just happen in mid-February. They're known as a premier acapella choral group, comprised of college students at a Lutheran school.

+ I'm thankful for great friends in Charlotte-- you know who you are. God is good.

+ It was a joy to serve at my former church as a pastor. I miss the people there already. Here's hoping that better is next.

All in all, I'm hopeful that 2009 will be full of wonderful surprises.