Here at the Clay Coyote we welcome everyone who comes through our doors (either in person or virtually) with open arms and compassion. For the last fifteen years, Ann Lewandowski has been one of the first smiles you see when you’ve visited the Gallery, or one of the happy voices you’ve talked to on the phone.
On February 6, after a short illness, Ann passed away at the age of 59. For all those of us who knew Ann, we remember her as a kind, funny, thoughtful, awesome woman.
Over the last few days we’ve had time to reflect on some of our favorite Ann moments, from her happy dances … ooohing over new artwork every time a box arrived … whooping when excited … her love of Enya while cleaning … her wacky Japanese gift-wrapping technique … passion for a good egg roll … and her willingness to try anything.
Every time Ann came into work she’d look at the register from the days before to see who she missed; she loved helping everyone of you.
Here are some fun photos; her smile lit up the Gallery.
And, for all of you who want to cook a meal in Ann’s honor, this recipe was one of her favorites to share. Her favorite pot was the Cazuela, the workhorse of the Flameware chef’s line.
Ann’s Mom’s Meat Pie
- Double pie crust
- 2 lbs. lean ground pork
- 2 cups mashed potatoes
- 2 tsp. Salt
- ¼ tsp. Pepper
- ½ tsp. Sage
- ½ tsp. savory
Simmer pork on stove in Clay Coyote Flameware Cazuela for about 30 minutes, don’t brown, stir while cooking.
Add salt, pepper, sage, savory to taste.
Add mashed potatoes after the meat has simmered. Cool. Adjust seasonings and add water if dry.
Put in the crust, cover with the top crust. Bake at 350F for one hour.
Enjoy it with a dark beer, and toast Ann.
