During my high school years in Montana, I often visited an elderly neighbor.  Not only did we develop a friendship, but I can see now how she influenced my eye and passion for art.  Through experiences in her art filled home and beautifully landscaped yard, I learned that the environment you live in makes a difference in how you feel.  In addition, she often took me to an art gallery named "Gallery 85." There she bought me the Takehara Tea Pot above. I treasure it to this day not only for its simple, subtle, and unobtrusive beauty, but for the love I feel every time I use it.