08/12/2026
I know I look a little cray cray here, but this photo marks one of the biggest moments in my pottery journey. 🤯❤️
Can you guess what it is?
I recently paid a visit to my favorite local pottery supplier (Gem Ceramics), who's phone number is literally saved in my phone as "Roger-Glaze Dealer." His shop is conveniently located right below the pottery studio where I take classes, which means he sees a lot of me.
This wasn't an impulse purchase. In fact, it's the result of nearly two years of asking questions, researching options, changing my mind, asking more questions, and trying to figure out what made the most sense for my future in clay. It also included the most supportive husband on the planet always and forever cheering me on, and pushing me to dream big and "do the damn thing" (Love you big, Nikolas Itnyre 🥰)
The timing also had to be right. We needed to get somewhat settled into our new home, have a plan for an additional outdoor structure, and, most importantly, accept the fact that pottery isn't going anywhere in my life. I love it too much.
I brought my sidekick O along for the adventure. At one point, O very innocently asked (in front of Roger🫣) why we couldn't just buy it online. I explained that when you have the chance to support local businesses and the people who invest in you, that's almost always the better choice.
Roger has spent so much time patiently answering my endless questions, walking me through options, talking me off a ledge a few times, and sharing his knowledge every step of the way. When it came time to buy, he even matched an online deal without me asking.
That's the kind of service, expertise, and community you don't get from a website.
So if you can shop local and support the people who support your passions, do it.
Now for the important question...What do you think I bought? 👀
Hint: It should arrive in 10 to 12 weeks, and I am internally screaming with excitement.
