Shaking things up

I have been making animal rattles this week. Most started out as small orbs that were then transformed into pigs, sheep, and one cat. The larger pig started out as a little, wheel thrown jug. All of them are small and will fit in the palm of your hand. I will probably finish them in a variety of ways, incorporating some of the techniques gleaned from the workshop I went to at the end of August. The rattling animals were filler work while waiting for pig bodies to firm up for assembling. These little guys will make great kiln fillers as well. They can tuck in underneath all those vessel sinks that Jeff has been making.

 Today we awoke to cool, dry, air... it's only 61 degrees here at 9 am. It feels so good to have windows open with fresh air and sunshine streaming in. Not sure how long it will last, but I will enjoy it while it's here.

Pigs on the run...

The piggy bank orders are piling in for the holiday season. I spend many nights making them in my sleep. This morning I poured my coffee and as I was heading to the fridge to put away the milk, what did I see outside the window??... a PIGLET. A real live piglet. Now I do live next door to a farm, but this farmer raises cows and goats. The farmer's shepherd was out there trying to round up this pig, when along came a small dog that looked like a springer spaniel. Everyone gave each other a few sniffs then the pig came trotting through the field into our yard. The dog quickly followed.

Of course I HAD to grab my camera and run out in my pajamas to snap some photos!

Once outside I realized that I shouldn't be getting too close to a strange dog and his piglet buddy. Believe it or not, I used to be a runner and about 12 years ago I was bitten by a springer spaniel while out on the road. Since then I am a little afraid of strange dogs.

I decided that the zoom on my camera would be a good idea. The dog ran ahead and into the woods, with piglet close behind.

I hope they made it home safe and sound, the Pottery Highway is a busy road.
Now it's time for me to get to work on my own piggies so that they will make it to their new homes in time for Christmas.