The Blessing I Almost Missed |What happens when you show up anyway

I almost didn't go.

Not because I didn't want to — but because four days before The Clay Garden Art Market, we said goodbye to our sweet dog Duke (Dukey) of 13 years...he was one of our kids. Thirteen years of unconditional love and silent encouragement that asks nothing and offers everything. I just wasn't done crying yet.

My heart was heavy in a way I hadn't expected, and I had some serious concerns about how to share my work that revolves around bringing joy and uplifting others — when the authentic me wasn't sure I could bring it with me. And still my husband and I loaded the car anyway.

I've learned something about showing up when you don't feel ready — it doesn't always fix things, but within it there always seems to be a greater blessing that lets the light shine in. 

That's what happened that day.

Being surrounded by fellow clay folks, leaning into conversations with strangers who are now new friends, and people openly enjoying my work uplifted me in such an unexpected profound way!

There was even a lovely woman who purchased a cup from me 15 years ago that was part of the original "365 Days of Clay Cups" project. She showed me the photo of her mug from my book that was on display and said she still loves using it. 

Something in me exhaled. By the end of the day my heart felt lighter. Not fixed—but just lighter and a bit more hopeful. There's a difference, and I think it matters.

Then came the Open Studio the following weekend. I made what I thought could be finished in time — the kiln opened Saturday morning, just an hour before the doors did. But Open Studio has never really been about the work for me. It's about the conversations. The new visitors. The annual friends who come back year after year — and this time, came prepared to sign the ceramic guestbook.

By the time both shows were over, my shelves were empty. Not "sort of empty."

Every. Single. Cup & Mug. 

It is a 100% fresh start in the studio!

Here are some of the lovely moments!

I almost missed it — and if I hadn't taken that step forward and shown up anyway, I would have missed the new friends, the sharing, the peace, and the lightness that crept back in while I wasn't looking. 

It sounds like the last thought, but I gratefully know it's the first thought ...God knew exactly what I needed, at exactly the right timing. That was the blessing. And the beginning of healing.

So what's next?

I'm back in the studio with so many ideas! On June 13th I'll be at the Virginia Corridor Art Market (behind Roseburg Square in Modesto, CA) bringing whatever comes off the wheel between now and then

And if you aren't local — don't worry. I'm making a separate set of mugs and cups that will be added exclusively to the online shop. Something worth watching for.

So for right now...there is clay on my hands (and clothes, and shoes, and hair), and joy is growing in my heart!

Thank you to everyone who chooses to uplift and encourage others! 

Joy, Love & Blessings, Tammy Jo