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minnesota and mel

updated wed 13 oct 04

 

Susan Nebeker on tue 12 oct 04


Took a much needed vacation to Minneapolis to visit my daughter and son-in-law last week Tough year for our family- my Dad is dying of cancer and lots of pots to fire and sell in between extended visits with him in the next state. Not to mention a teenager and husband at home to fuss over, they've been neglected some, I'm afraid.
I've reached the point of physical and emotional exhaustion. Needed a break. So, off to MN to recharge with my darling kids- Oregonians who are there temporarily there for school.
A highlight of the stay was a visit to Mel's studio in Minnetonka.

Daughter and I were warmly welcomed by Mel. Spent a lovely afternoon with him.
We marveled over his beautiful chinese glazes, received a throwing demo ( my crippled shoulder will benefit from his technique!) and the gift of a tool or two, enjoyed a cup of tea, and in short, had a great time.

Thanks to the thick and fluffy sweaters I mistakenly brought ( warm and sunny!), my MJ pots arrived home in one piece. The mug is satisfyingly perfect in my hand, the teapot pours smoothly and nary a drip, of course. The vase displays the fall asters stunningly.
I feel privileged to own them.

I've spent the last two hours relaxing with my tea here at the computer, catching up on 400 posts from Clayart. Should be unpacking, oh well.........

It's been entertaining and enlightening to say the least to read all the comments generated from Mel's mention of Young Dread's personal take on functional and production potters!

I appreciate this forum for all the thoughts and the wealth of information shared. It's helped me alot.
And thanks to Mel for the warm, generous and wise man that he is.

Now, back to the studio to fire up a bisque! Definitely feeling re-charged....
And I can't wait to try out his advice on how to fire my kiln in complete oxidation.
No more liver spots on my Oribe- woo hooo!

Susan



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