Fun with clay and fire

Over the past 7 months or so, I’ve been attending a ceramics class once a week. While mainly focused on wheel-throwing, I really wanted to learn more about firing sculptural work. As I have progressed, I’m glad I now have a foundation in making pots. Here is a frog sculpture, freshly dipped in glaze and awaiting final firing. I’ve had little time to sculpt lately. I do enjoy it and I want to get a few more pieces done before the big move. I know we’ll not be able to take much, but at least I’m creating some Christmas gifts.

Shiitakes, 2nd flush

Altered the path of our hike tonight to check on the shiitake logs again. Despite the dry conditions we were pleased to find another flush ready for harvest. Stir-fry tonight, soup tomorrow.

Chicken-of-the-Woods update: I was all ready to sample what was a very tender and nice looking specimen (pictured a few entries down). I revisited the stump with knife in hand only to find something had eaten all but a nub of it. I was disappointed, but have resolved to find another before the month is out and the prime season is over.