Jane's Casserole

One day back in 1968, potter Allan Buitekant's wife asked him if he would make her a casserole for some dishes she wanted to make. "I was delighted to do so," says the artist. He then went into the studio, which in those days was a basement with a wheel, kiln and a table.

"While she stood behind me I produced the piece as is done in some industrial studios where the craftsman is guided. She and I worked it out together and she had her casserole which pleased her."

In 2006, Jane passed away. "I was involved in preparing for a gallery show at the time. The gallery owner saw this casserole, now with 36 years of constant use, and loved its honesty and directness and asked if I would produce these," says Buitekant.

"Without hesitation I said yes because I wanted to honor Jane in this manner. I produce "Jane's Casserole" in a 4 qt size as I did for her, unglazed outside glazed inside. One thing I do, [which is exclusive to this piece] is number and date them. When I threw the first one I was consumed with memory of her as I am every time I make her casserole." --Allan Buitekant

Happy Birthday to You

"Celery Pearl Bracelet" -Svetlana Howells

At our house we make a big deal of birthdays. Actually we turn them into week long festivals if we can get anyone to cooperate, and sometimes even if they don't. The celebration of life, of course should happen everyday, but birthdays are an excuse for a little self indulgence.

That's why we have extreme empathy for those who are born in December or January. Those born in December have the whole holiday thing overshadowing their birthday, and those who have a birthday in January. Well, it's a month when everyone is pretty well broke from the holidays. Granted there are some good sales going on that giftors can buy for giftees, but pretty much, a lot of inventory is picked over.

This is where buyoutsidethebox.com can come in and save the day. We always have beautiful art and fine, handmade things for sale. We also have a wishlist option and so you can register for all the wonderful things that will nurture your sole.

A.A. Milne was born on this day. He's the author of "Winnie the Pooh." If you have no one else's birthday to celebrate, then think "Pooh."--Ruth Mitchell