I finally decided to try that sourdough starter everyone has been talking about. I mixed the flour and water three days ago and it is already bubbling like crazy. The whole kitchen counter smells like a bakery and I keep peeking at it every few hours to see if it has doubled. I fed it this morning and it was so active I thought it might climb out of the jar. My friend told me to name my starter so I called it Doughvid after my uncle. I have no idea if I am doing this right but the process is really satisfying so far. I found a great recipe for overnight sourdough pancakes that uses the discard so nothing goes to waste. I might try those this weekend if I can keep the mother culture alive. I already ordered a banneton basket and a lame for scoring the loaves. I know I am getting way ahead of myself but I love a good kitchen project. My neighbor said her starter is over a year old and she takes it on vacation with her. That seems a little intense but I respect the dedication. I think I am finally ready to try baking my first boule next week. I just hope it does not end up as a doorstop. iDEqmuGhvlhDpn Wish me luck because I am already attached to this sticky little jar of flour water magic.

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I signed up for a beginner pottery class last month and it has completely taken over my weekends. The feel of wet clay spinning through my hands is incredibly calming even when the wheel throws a wobble and everything collapses into a lopsided lump. My first few pieces looked like abstract blobs but I finally managed to pull a decent cylinder last Wednesday. I was so proud I almost cried in the studio. The kiln gods have been kind to me so far and none of my pieces have exploded during firing. I am currently working on a set of four tiny rice bowls that I hope to glaze in a soft celadon green. My instructor says I should slow down and focus on centering before I move to taller forms but I am impatient for progress. I bought a bag of speckled stoneware clay from a local supplier and it has a beautiful texture that shows off every finger mark. I want to keep one bowl for myself and give the rest as gifts. I think handmade pottery makes the best presents because you put so much time and care into each piece. I am already daydreaming about building my own small studio shed in the backyard.