Debbie and I enjoyed a gorgeous weekend at Cedars of Lebanon State Park with a full campground of folks who had the Fall weather in mind as much as we did. By the time we arrived at the park, all of the prime camping spaces were occupied. We were grateful to find even one, reasonably level space to park, even if it meant that we’d have very little privacy due to the nearby entry drive.
Our plan was to take some time to play with our toys. For Deb, that meant a sewing machine on the park provided picnic table. For me, that translated into trying out a potter’s wheel that I purchased several months ago but had not found a time (or place) where I could make a big mess at the house. The Sew & Throw Circus was a success although neither of us set any world records for production. What we did produce was entertainment and conversation for many of our fellow campers as they walked by…and stopped by. I probably mentioned before that making ceramic musical instruments in a state park draws a crowd, but this time we seemed to draw a lot of conversation. People are fascinated with folks who do strange things in campgrounds…probably like some people are entertained by shoppers at Wal-Mart.
I count myself as one who is still fascinated by potters who make things on a wheel, and make it look so effortless. I am not part of that effortless fraternity, but I do have fun with it. As it turns out (no pun intended) there are people who seem to enjoy watching someone who is giving it the ‘ole college try. To all those new friends, we say Thank You!…and be sure to catch the circus the next time it passes through a campground near you.
Tags: camping, Cedars of Lebanon State Park, ceramics, Fall, stoneware, wheel-thrown