Damn LJ

Apparently LJ has removed the option to post using the old interface. I find their new GUI lacking and a bit too much like Facebook for my tastes. Why they chose to fix something that was not broken and ignore other issues that the site has had for years is beyond me.

Okay, enough griping about a product that I don't even pay for and on to other more exciting stuff.

Hmmm. Now the pressure is on to deliver something exciting. ;-)

The big news is that we've bought a cargo trailer for the studio. I've been hunting for a used trailer for some time now and finally hit upon one that's in good shape and affordable. Kudos to Steve, the guy selling it, for taking the time to answer _all_ of my questions via eBay and giving me a fair price. The trailer is 4' x 8' and is tall enough that I can stand up in it. The Endeavor pulls it (empty so far) with ease. The trailer will not only transport my business but also store all of the show things (tent, tables, etc.).

On the health front, I am re-thinking the PRP therapy for my hip bursitis. It will be painful and apparently now Dr. Truong is making folks spend $50 on supplements prior to the procedure on top of the cost for the plasma kit. I've done some reading and the consensus online is that rest, rest, and more rest is needed while avoiding stairs like the plague. I'd like to get a second opinion but am not sure where to go for one at this point. The tennis elbow seems to getting a little better with ice, icy hot, and massage.

Yesterday was a rare Saturday where I got some studio time. daecabhir was busy with work stuff, so it was only fair that I got busy with work stuff too. After a little bit of throwing, I experimented with some ring holders and made another cone-coffee filter holder - with some tweaks made to the original design

My sweet and amazing daecabhir brought me two bouquets of flowers for Valentine's Day - a dozen pink roses and a bunch of purple carnations. Does he know his girl or what? We had a nice candlelit dinner, exchanged wonderfully sappy cards, and lots of kisses.

Dedication to the Goddess of the Kiln

Oh great and mighty goddess of fire
we dedicate to you this day a new kiln
Lovingly built by the humble hands of your servants

We pray that in your continued firing
you will only flame our creations with
creative scorch marks and never make them crack,
That you melt our glazes lovingly and evenly,
without runs or drips, unless they look really cool

We ask that you grant us the will and patience
To allow our work to dry before entrusting them to your care
To not view your work until you have cooled your fiery rages
To properly wash all shelves, just in case

In return, We the worshipers of your great and mighty gasses,
Promise to always wipe the bottoms of our creations and
to never let you overcook,
To keep your burners in good repair, for we would not want you
to ever go hungry or blow up.

~Brandy Dickerson 1997