Emma Bridgewater - One of My Heroines

I'm sure most folk who live in the UK have heard of Emma Bridgewater, who, when only a young woman had the desire and the vision to save an enormous ancient pottery in Staffordshire. She says that literally everyone told her not to do it. In previous centuries the area was known for it's many potteries and of course the filthy air they created. Today there are only a few working potteries left. The Mr and I visited the Bridgewater pottery a few days ago, we had breakfast, a tour of the factory, we even painted some plates, which will be sent to us once they have been fired. The whole experience was top notch and I would recommend a visit if any of you get the chance. After witnessing the labour intensive process involved in making her pots I fully understand the pricing and their worth. Incidentally all the folk working there were very happy with their tasks. Take a look at our plates above, can you guess which one I decorated and which one the Mr did? Before we went he wasn't sure it was his cup of tea but he absolutely loved doing it. When we recieve them back I'll post another picture so you can see the difference in the glazes after several firings.

JUST WOW

Watch it all if you have time, you'll be smilimg ear to ear, with just a little tear.

Lucky Girl

"The best moments in reading are when you come across something - a thought, a feeling, a way of looking at things - which you had thought special and particular to you. Now here it is, set down by someone else, a person you have never met, some one even who is long dead. And it is as if a hand has come out and taken yours." Alan Benett, The History Boys. Today I was gifted two very special items for my yet to be reading room and I couldn't be more thrilled. Here is one of them. I'm a lucky girl.

And here is a very special boooooook. To grace my shelves.