Thursday, September 13, 2012

Getting ready, getting ready, China next week

Only 5 sleeps, and things are moving fast. Not helped by my kiln misfiring yesterday. I have not idea why it did not reach temp, it got to about 1165deg C when I last checked it, then a couple of hours later started beeping. Luckily I put in cones, and discovered this morning it must have stopped working just after 1165deg C as the glazes are just starting to shine.  I am firing to 1195deg C. I have reset the kiln, and keeping a very close eye on it... kiln gods please be kind.


So I'm going through the packing, again. Checking the temperature in Shanghai, Beijing and Jingdezhen. 30deg max in Shanghai and JDN, 16 deg low.... 26deg max in Beijing, and 12 deg low. Hmmm, short sleeved tops, and long sleeved ones, different weights of trousers, and shorts. And yes, I will pack my winter PJs, just in case it gets colder. Must remember my pottery apron. First aid kit, check, ordered Chinese Yuan to pick up airport, check. Computer and iPod check... passport and tickets check.

There are 2 circus sculptures waiting to go into the kiln before I go (say another prayer to my kiln god).

Next week I'll be in China, so I hope I can get wifi in the hotel from Shanghai. Little waves of excitement keep wafting over me. Hee hee.






7 comments:

Anna said...

oh Gosh!! So much going on for you! Fingers crossed for the kiln firing well. Hope we gets some posts from China :^)

Mieke van Sambeeck said...

Ohhhh, do I have to go through this next week??
eeeeeekk, and yes butterflies are starting to fly!

Adriana Christianson said...

Hi Ellen-
have a wonderful time in China..the best advice i had for packing for OS was..put everything from yr suitcase on the bed..halve it and DOUBLE YOUR MONEY !!
Very envious of your exciting opportunity !
Take care x

Ellen Appleby said...

Good advice. I have also invested in some light travelling clothes so at the moment the suitcase is only 15kg - lots of room for goodies...

Linda Starr said...

have a great trip

Elaine Bradley said...

Very excited for you. I believe Facebook and YouTube are blocked in China


Ellen Appleby said...

Yes I'd heard similar things. I think blogger might be ok. But FB is no go I think.