Simple Pleasures

This is the time of year to notice and appreciate the simple things that can get lost in the glitz and glitter. What are your simple pleasures? I have too many to list but I cherish the time to think about them-- to put aside the busyness and dwell with the moment. There are the birds that stay around and accompany us through the winter, the impressions that pine needles and cedar twigs make on the clay, and the clever and thoughtful homemade gifts that people give each other this time of year-- not the big fancy gifts but the creative ones. There is the warmth of the wood stove and the pleasure the cats cozying up to it. There are the dog’s circles of sheer joy in the snow. There is the music so special to the holidays, and those memories from the past. I love small gatherings, the catching up, the quiet times, the lights and goodies, and chances to learn something new. I love the opportunity to reach out to someone I can assist in some way, and the time to hope all over again for peace.  I wish you the warmest season’s greetings, wherever you are. May you have safe travels and quiet moments. And may your pleasures be simple and profound. 

The world of little plates

What does one do with plates only about 2½ by 3½ inches in size? I asked a few folks. Bill said, “Put sushi on them.” Pat said, “Keep my rings on it overnight.” Molly’s response was to use it as a spoon rest, Doug’s as a soap dish. Liz immediately envisioned her wee tray as a “tea bag cradle.” Jon feeds his cat on one small Kahoka plate. He points out that he has two so that Little Annie does not go hungry when one is in the dishwasher. He says this started when he learned that cats don’t like eating out of bowls that force them to bend their whiskers. 

These little plates come in many colors and textures. Some are a bit rounded, others nearly flat. They make great stocking stuffers and inexpensive small gifts for the holidays. I started making them when someone requested a couple dozen little plates last year. She covered them with holiday treats and then plastic wrap, added a bow and a tag, and passed them out at her office celebration. I love it when people use my pots (and little plates) creatively! There really is no excuse for bent whiskers!