Handbuilt porcelain boxes – I hope to bisque fire them tomorrow. The smallest is 1″ square, the largest is 5″ x 6″

I’ve had a couple of opportunities come my way recently that I would have jumped at the chance to do 1 year ago. My schedule is filling up, however, and after careful consideration I had to decline offers to teach and show my work. Now, my work isn’t in that high of demand, mind you – but it is a timing issue. It’s hard to tell someone no, however, and when I was originally propositioned, I wisely asked for time to think about it. I don’t like saying “no” to anyone, but after looking at my calendar and checking my sanity level, I declined. I’m one of those people that doesn’t like to disappoint, but I do need to look after my own health and sanity.

John F. Kennedy High School, Denver, CO

Meanwhile, I spent the majority of the morning at John F. Kennedy High School in South Denver speaking to 4 different ceramics classes for career day. I was approached by the school’s resource specialist about being the ceramics speaker a couple of months ago – and wondered if they wouldn’t like to have someone a little more experienced than myself. I was hesitant, but eventually agreed to do it since it is good practice speaking in front of people – especially to high school students. I hope I didn’t bore them too much – and tried my best to offer up different options within the field of ceramics that could offer a lifelong career.

Overall, the kids were very polite and seemed interested in what I had to say. After the first talk, I realized I needed to be more succinct and by the 4th time around, felt very comfortable with my spiel. It is after all my story. I saw a few kid’s eyes glaze over (pun intended), and felt I was intruding when I walked down the back stairway to my car and saw a couple making out. Was I like that in H.S.??

I procrastinated getting my images and outline prepared – so this morning I was up at 4am cramming for my presentation, which is only fitting, don’t you think?

Now I need a nap,

~Cynthia