I actually just got back from that pottery workshop we talked about last month — it was way more fun than I expected. My first few pieces were pretty lopsided but the instructor was really patient and showed me how to center the clay properly. By the end of the session I managed to make a small bowl that actually looks like a bowl! I think I might sign up for the next level class if my schedule allows. The studio has evening slots so that might work for me. Let me know if you ever want to try it out — I think you would really enjoy the whole process. It is surprisingly meditative once you get into the rhythm of it. The kiln firing part is fascinating too because you never quite know how the glaze will turn out. I am planning to go back next Thursday if you want to join me. Just let me know and I will send you the details.

You know how I have been trying to get better at making sourdough from scratch? Well I finally had a decent loaf come out of the oven yesterday and I was so excited I almost burned my hand taking it out of the dutch oven. The crust was this deep golden brown and it made that hollow sound when you tap it on the bottom which apparently means it is done right. I let it cool for almost two hours before slicing into it and it had a really nice open crumb structure with those little airy pockets that you see in bakery bread. I spread some butter on a slice while it was still slightly warm and honestly it was the best thing I have eaten all week. My starter is about three months old now and I feed it every evening around the same time. It has developed this really pleasant fruity smell that I actually look forward to each day. If you want I can share the recipe I have been using. It is from a small bakery in Portland and the hydration ratio took me a few tries to get right but now I think I have it figured out.