Support Small Biz: GOPI SHAH

There were several indie ceramicists at last month's Renegade in Austin, but the one who really caught my eye was Gopi Shah.  Her creations felt fresh and original, and she was really personable and nice to talk to.  I enjoyed being her customer.

I purchased this All Seeing Eye ceramic tumbler from her:

I was in the market for a giant cup (for my morning matcha), and I bought this one despite it not being as big as I'd wanted.  If I still want a giant tumbler in the future, Gopi told me she does custom orders. If I'd had more money to spend that day, I would have also bought her match striker and incense holder.

Match Striker by Gopi Shah

Visit Gopi Shah's website, Etsy shop & Instagram.  

MUSIC MONDAY: EZRA FURMAN

One of my very best friends lives all the way across the country from me in New York, and though we don't talk on the phone all that often, we just get each other on a certain level.  I'm talking about my friend Dave, who is one of my favorite musicians and with whom I see eye to eye on most music, even though we're both very picky.

Last week he sent me a link to Ezra Furman and I fell in love.

"Makin' the rounds in my $5 dollar dress" I CAN RELATE.

I want to join him inside this beautiful video.

Ezra Furman, thank you for being you.  I'm totally inspired.

Support Small Biz: SHORT TAIL SHOP

As I've already written about, I went to the Renegade Craft Fair in Austin earlier this month. By far the most exciting vendor I discovered was SHORT TAIL SHOP.

Hayden makes stained glass art objects in the coolest shapes.  Of course I had to get a feather for Featherweight.  Isn't it gorgeous?

She had a couple other strong shapes and symbols including a gemstone, and an eye with hanging tears that I really loved.  I can't wait to hang this in my bedroom window, and I'll probably take it with me and hang it in my booth at West Coast Craft next month, for good luck.

Hayden has added a few feathers to her Short Tail shop on Etsy.  They're "hand-cut, copper foiled, soldered, and polished to perfection" and hung from a leather strap - a total steal at just $24. Get yourself one!

Images from Austin, TX, Part 1

Some scenes from my recent trip to Austin.

My friend Jesse Dayton plays old school country at the Spoke every Thursday night.

How many Torchy's Tacos can I eat per day?

Courtney Love's wardrobe prior to being steamed. I really wanted to look inside the bag to see the labels but I restrained myself.

Vegetarian lasagna with homemade pasta and homemade sauce, courtesy of my multi-talented friend Jeff. 

A brief break in the rain.