Every day is an inspiration

Jennifer Curtin is happy to lead customers in adventures at her cafe.

- JAANA HATTON

The little yellow house at 400 Ninth Street in Wenatchee is like sunshine even on the outside.

Once you step inside, the feeling remains as you are likely to meet the owner, Jennifer Curtin, greeting you with a bright smile.

The cozy, home-like Inspirations Ceramic & Art Café is where customers can create ceramic pieces of their own liking. Maybe a new coffee mug or a platter for appetizers? Or how about trying out fused glass — the results can be amazing.

“I never thought of myself as a creative person,” Jennifer said, “but I keep finding new ideas to share.”

There is something she does not easily share: memories of her near-fatal accident 10 years ago.

The night of the horrific event on Dec. 9, 2009, was as dark as winter gets when Jennifer was crossing Grant Road with three of her friends. There were no lights, no crosswalk, at the spot.

Three cars had stopped to allow them to get onto the other side – the fourth one did not. It hit Jennifer, who was the last one in the group and sent her flying into the air and then landing on top of the hood of the car. The driver slammed on his breaks, causing Jennifer to crash onto the road.

Currently, the location on Grant Road, by the community park, is easily identifiable with the crosswalk and lights that provide safety to pedestrians.