Humble Beginnings

The short, squatty vase in the picture is one of the first pots I made, and I still love it for all its humble imperfection. I keep it on the counter even when it bears no flowers because I love the imprint of leaves, the subtle color, and the earthiness of it. Maybe it's also a reminder of where I began, and when I get discouraged, I can glance at this small vessel and note that I've made progress.

This year my pottery business has humble beginnings as well. Before the year began, I made a list of goals, which included doing at least one spring and one fall arts festival and adding one vendor to my local venues. Done! The first arts festival is coming up April 20 in Waverly, Ala., with the annual Old 280  Boogie. For weeks I've been contemplating business cards; I even went so far is to make a mock up, but the line "website" kept me from ordering. Blog vs. website, which is best? Aren't websites the professional way to go? I've blogged before, so that seemed less intimidating. I follow several blogging potters who have links to true websites, so I decided to take that route as a start. Besides, doesn't everyone like a good story? I know that I prefer the blogs to the websites because they seem more inviting, more of a connection to the potter.

Hopefully the business cards will be ready. I've only myself to blame if they're not. But will the pots be ready? I'm afraid that what comes out of the kiln tomorrow will be it. Certainly the salt cellars and garlic pots won't be ready--they haven't been bisque fired and won't be until Monday at the earliest. If all goes well and firing goes as it should, I could have some garlic pots, berry bowls, tea bowls, and salt cellars to add to what's already packed and waiting for transport. Potting has taught me never to count my pots before they're glaze fired, but I'm crossing my fingers.