One of my favorite things in the spring is Joe and Christy Cole’s first kiln firing party at Windy Ridge Pottery.  We are like moths drawn to flames toward the giant 3 chambered kiln dubbed “the camel” by my friend Claire.  Thank goodness there is always lot of scrumptious food and beer before you get too close!  Joe Cole has singed his eyebrows a couple of times but it is understandable because he is the master of the kiln (meaning, we let him do most of the work).  It is quite a difficult job because the fire has to be fed for 2 whole nights.  Christy, the mistress of the kiln, had to stay up last night after most of us have gone home to bed.  The kiln will not be opened until Tuesday.  After that, they will be cleaned and ready to be shown for Clay in May this weekend.

The Camel

We feasted on brats, burgers, chips, cookies, carrot cake, pesto pasta salad, spicy garbanzo bean salad, quinoa and carrot salad, and New Glarus ales.  It is where I have met many great friends.  The first time we went was in 2010.  You can read about it here.

A Gorgeous Evening

Contributed by Leslie Damaso