First, last week's progress (and a much brighter, nicer photo). I'm afraid I took this week's photos later in the evening and in poor light.
So, I have grown another flower and have a roof on my house. I completed the fountain and just need to turn on the water (and then I might just jump in myself since it is has been still so very toasty warm here--end of July and August weather already in June . . . far too soon for my taste). I am hoping to finish this soon. Now that we are officially in Summer, it is time for me to think of starting my Summer Sampler. I need to order more linen, but the color palette will be the same. I am working now on the upper left branch and will be giving my robin a friend. To be honest I think I like the summer design least of the quartet, but maybe I will like it more when I begin stitching. Unsurprisingly I like the Fall Sampler the best--it will be even more welcome to work on it when the weather has turned cooler. Is it too soon to be thinking about cool, fall weather? I guess I should at least wait until after the Fourth of July!
A few other bookish notes for today as well:
How did I miss that Lois Duncan just passed away this past week? I loved her books as a young adult and still have fond memories of her writing. I recall a few in particular and as she was writing in the 70s (actually she was quite prolific), I think I might see if I still have any on hand and add them to my 1970s pile. Check out the New Republic's article on her, too. And more on her at The New Yorker.
And more on women crime writers, I thought this was a fascinating article as well--why women are writing the best contemporary crime novels.
So, stay cool and read lots of books!