Today was the first really sunny and clear day of spring, and we took the day off to visit Annapolis. My partner had never been downtown, so we had fun walking around and reading the plaques on houses. Besides the food — of course, the best fish and chips I’ve had in years is to be had at the pub on the dock — my favorite part was The Annapolis Pottery. The shop itself was filled with beautiful things, and the potters were hard at work creating wet pieces. It was fun to be able to see masters at work, and remember how quickly things take shape in their hands. I can only dream of someday being half that good on the wheel.

We didn’t buy anything to take home with us, but several things caught my eye: the spherical nest ‘box’ and bird feeders (of course), the French butter keepers, the covered baking dishes, assorted pitchers and carafes, and a particularly vibrant red wine bucket / utensil container. The series that involved pressed leaf forms was beautiful, too.

I love going into shops like that one, even (or especially) when I know I won’t be buying anything. They’re like a mini gallery visit. And, the colors and shapes always give me something to think about for my own creations.

If only I could learn some tricks from simply watching the potters’ hands, I’d be golden.