Fried Green Tomatoes

There couldn't have been a more gorgeous day for Saturday's kiln opening. Or a nicer bunch of folks that came out to enjoy it.  Music was provided by Eck McCanless, who is both a talented musician and potter.  I was set up next to the lovely Bonnie Burns, another wonderful local potter.

On the other side of me was Nick and Suzie, from StarWorks Glass.  I'm sorry I did not get a good picture of their gorgeous pumpkins, bowls, tumblers and jewelry.  You can catch a glimpse of their work behind the bouquet and basket in my booth.

I was gifted with some green tomatoes, and decided to fry them up last night.  A bit of sea salt, fresh ground pepper, and Joseph's hot pepper sauce.  Then dredge in a mix of flour and cornmeal, and into the frypan.  I only fry food once or twice a year, but boy, were they good!

Plant Magic

Early yesterday morning while donning my scrubs, a Green Anole lizard jumped out of the folded clothing.  I saw, then felt it land with a thud on my bare foot.  Light was just beginning to break outside, but you can bet I was now fully awake.  I requested a Most Benevolent Outcome that I would be able to catch the lizard, and safely return it outside.  They're pretty fast creatures, and my finger was "bitten", but that mission was accomplished easily.  I've heard tales of people getting them to bite their ears, which doesn't hurt, and wearing them as earrings.  We have several different lizards here, as well as the colorful Five-Lined Skink.  I'm always cheered by them all, and their antics.

On our walk tonight, I reached the back field before the dogs.  I saw what appeared in the distance to be a goose waddling off into the woods, something I've not seen there before.  I expect it was dining on the grass, and possibly migrating. There were also dozens of dragonflies flitting about over the field, a truly magical sight to see.  It was a warm day today, in the upper 70's, so maybe they were having their last hurrah of the season.

Last week, I experimented with dyeing fabric with plants.  I gathered large amounts of goldenrod and poke berries in the wild areas here, getting chiggers on my ankles.  But I really loved the whole process (well, not the chiggers)....from gathering, extracting the color from the plants, soaking the various fabrics, and especially fishing them out of the big enamel pots to see what I had.  Seeing the fabric all lined up on the clothesline made me smile every time I walked past.  I incorporated a couple pieces of lace into some eye pillows I made yesterday.  I'm looking forward to using the rest in other projects.   I noticed some cotton and linen fabrics did not hold the colors as well, with silk and wool felt maintaining the brightest colors.

There has been lots of creating going on, as I'm taking part in the Caldwell-Hohl kiln opening this Saturday. They have a beautiful setting, with a gorgeous, handcrafted log cabin, large pond, and a menagerie of animals.  There will be music, interesting vendors, good eats, and a gorgeous day is forecasted.  It's a great opportunity to purchase some holiday gifts, or just enjoy the lovely fall day, so come on by if you are in the area.

Sprouts and a Show

I've just come in from checking the winter garden. Yesterday's rain has encouraged sprouting of the greens, so it's coming along nicely. My good friend M is visiting. He and I go back many years. J & I are enjoying having him here, and catching up. I've been getting ready for a show this week. I'll be taking part in the Caldwell-Hohl kiln opening this weekend. The forecast promises a lovely, sunny fall weekend. If you're anywhere near Seagrove, come on by. I will be leaving at 2 tomorrow to attend a dear friend's memorial service, so come earlier if you're coming for my offerings. I'm playing Sunday by ear, and will stay as long as there's enough attendance. Happy Friday, friends!