less than shiny.

It's hard to avoid clichés when composing a long overdue blog post, especially when Christmas has passed in the gap. 'Time flies...', 'What a month...', 'Where does the time go...'. They're all rather boring, yet incredible easy to use. 

I might try some honesty instead. I am tired. Five days of resting over Christmas has only served to allow my immune system to relax and let a virus in, leaving me with an uncontrollable dry cough that is wrecking my (and my boyfriend's) sleep. The elements of Christmas - time with Ed, slow and indulgent meals, prosecco and croissants for breakfast, movies, writing and drawing - were glorious, but I feel far from rested. 

This festive season - my first as a full time potter - was brilliant despite the drama of a failed thermocouple in the kiln. New designs sold well, bespoke work was challenging and fulfilling, I pushed my production rates to provide stock for more outlets, Christmas in the Yard was ridiculously busy, I attended my first curated market in the UK. I stayed on top of jobs most days, with only occasional tears of frustration. I was mostly incredibly happy. I am deeply grateful to my customers for continuing to support me by purchasing my work and for being so patient (and for bringing cake).

From the beginning of November I abandoned most domestic duties and relied upon Ed to feed us and look after our home. He was willing to do that for me. His help comes without strings. Ed is the champion of this story. He believes in me and sacrifices his time to care for me, in turn helping me to achieve my goals. 

I need to make changes before the next festive season. Whilst I adore my work, I need to focus on sustainability.

A particularly nice end-of-year treat: being featured in the first British-Irish Council Creative Industries sector report! Many thanks to Mike Reaney from DED for bringing the group to visit the studio back in February.