Last weekend we worked with clay and it was really nice. We handcrafted and hand-painted bowls for the annual fundraiser, Empty Bowls 2015. Boulder Mountain Clayworks, among a few others, sponsors the event. At the beginning of the new year, several restaurants in the Wood River Valley will also participate. Hearty soups, colorful salads and decadent desserts will only make up part of the spread; locally made and donated from varying establishments throughout the valley. Any and all funds raised from Empty Bowls will go toward families in need this winter.

The inside of Michele's bowl before glazing.

The inside of Michele’s bowl before glazing.

While Michele and I crafted our bowls from a mold provided by Boulder Mountain Clayworks, Ethan took his talents to the wheel. He’s a natural artisan; we are already dreaming up ways to snag our very own wheel.

Back on the wheel for the first time in almost 10 years.

Back on the wheel for the first time in almost 10 years.

Not bad! Made me want to get back at it. What a therapeutic process.

Not bad! Made me want to get back at it. What a therapeutic process.

Robyn glazing her bowl.

Robyn glazing her bowl.

In puppy news, our little Chossy is growing fast. She’s a quirky pup; ornery sometimes, adorable always. We’ve been exploring the neighborhood and Draper Preserve daily – walking all of the trails that surround the Big Wood River.

Chossy sippin' water from the Big Wood River.

Should I?

Chossy does well on a leash and even better without one. She’s an early riser, loves all treats and her friend, Galena. She also enjoys long naps next to the wood stove (as pictured below in her new bed).

Chossy got a new bed!

I tested it out. It’s definitely cozy!

She knew right away what to do here. No question that this was a big treat.

She knew right away what to do here. No question that this was a big treat.

Lately, the weather gods have been generous, opening their wintry gates to dump only the most beautiful flakes down on the valley. As inches fall, our psych grows. Ethan and friends, JP and Matt, took advantage of the fresh flakes and skinned up Titus Ridge, a popular backcountry tour in the Smoky Moutains. From their photos, the weather looked perfect, snow conditions looked good and the views, unbeatable. I am itching to get out there and play!

Boulder Mountains from Galena Pass.

Boulder Mountains from Galena Pass.

Small Wind Slab avalanches along Titus Ridge.

Small Wind Slab avalanches along Titus Ridge.

Matt and JP skinning out of Humble Pie.

Matt and JP skinning out of Humble Pie.

Matt and Galena along Titus Ridge.

Matt and Galena along Titus Ridge.