Summer web . . .

This is that time of year we've been looking forward to since there was two feet of snow covering everything. Remember? We never saw any bare earth until March? And we swore we would never complain about the heat if it would only get above freezing for one day and we wouldn't be struggling with winter coats and muddy shoes? Well, here it is exactly one half of a year from January, humidity apparent on the tiny cobwebs in the early mornings and we're not complaining. This is the day.

Bluebell Earrings . . .

For Lorraine.

Sweet little pair of faceted lapis and sterling silver earrings.

Copperlicious . . .

I am just having 'way too much fun with this copper stuff lately. Clearly I'm hooked on this material and I cannot believe how warm and cool it can appear all at once. When paired with sterling silver, the pink tones really stand out.

This is a pendant that I made for my friend Connie - that is, if she likes it.

Completely fabricated in copper, it has an off-center punched hole, is oxidized inside the hollowform bead and is accented with a copper-capped rondelle of sweet aquamarine. It measures 3/4" and is about 1/4" deep.

I love it. How could you not?

Daylily time . . .

With all of the winter moisture and the spring rain, the daylilies are beautiful this year. Huge, lots of scapes, gorgeous deep colors. And for my friends who have wanted divisions, this is the year! Laddie Boy after the rain and Monte feeding the sweatbees.

Yet more rain . . .

It's been raining almost solid for over 24 hours with more to come later tonight.

I checked the rain gauges and couldn't believe my eyes when I read the first one. So I moved on to the one in the garden and one more in front of the garage and , lo and behold, they all read 4.5 inches.

Seriously, enough.

After the storm . . .

I have always been fascinated by weather and I'm sure I'll have huge wrinkles in my neck one day from tilting my head back to look at the sky.

A short bursting storm came through early in the evening and as it passed it left the most beautiful cloudscapes, bathing the sunset in reds, oranges, yellows and electric blues.

We are so lucky to live on the highest spot in the county and this is what we get for the privilege. Beautiful views after a storm.

And the daylily madness begins . . .

The first bloom : Lavender Greeting

Cat animal Ink could care less.