A gift...

This mug was a birthday gift from my bride. A lovely, hand-thrown coffee mug, colorfully glazed and comfortable to hold (in spite of its heft).

But what sets this mug apart was that it was made by our friend and shepherd, Don Brimberry. Some of you know Don, or perhaps his wife, Terra. I recall that Terra visited Julie and Jason when they lived in Prague; she grew up on the mission field in Korea and has a heart for missions.

Don is one of those rare individuals that makes a living with his art. Austin is full of artists, but most have not given up the day job. Don creates his wonderful pottery throughout the week and spends most weekends selling his work at various Arts and Craft shows. Yet he almost never misses teaching class on Sunday mornings. And from time-to-time he sets up his portable wheel and teaches an incredible lesson/demonstration to youth groups. Don is a potter, and a shepherd. There's a biblical combination for you.

I encourage you to visit Don's web site and look at his gorgeous work. Maybe you'll have a birthday soon.