Growing up in the Sonoran Desert, with it’s long history of human habitation (extending back at least 9,000 years), I learned early on to look for clues. Whether hiking or horseback riding my eyes constantly scanned the desert floor for lithics or sherds. I scrambled over boulders looking for petroglyphs and metates. I studied the landscape looking for human alterations.

Seldom was I disappointed, this area is rich with hints of those who have gone before. My fascination with those distant lifeways had a profound influence on me, it ultimately led to my degree in Archaeology. While I don’t work in that field I am just as interested as ever.

So imagine how delighted I was to find these sherds in my own backyard! I had always hoped to find something on this property but after six years, I had given up.

Based on the undecorated and unrefined surfaces this was probably plain ware, meant for everyday use. Two slight ridges running parallel suggest the vessel was made using the coil method. My thumb fits perfectly in one of the depressions – did the potter’s thumb fit there, too? We’re separated by hundreds of years yet I can picture the capable hands; coiling and smoothing.

Spotted downtown.  Thought I’d share this, you know, to commiserate with all of you who have been blanketed with the white stuff lately. After all, it was only 62 here today. Brrrr!

Should’ve posted this sooner, ah well. Two weeks ago Todd Snider played Club Congress. He walked out on stage barefoot, looking like Gilligan. Just him, a silly hat, and a guitar (and a magic mushroom but we’re not going to talk about that). He proceeded to delight, entertain, and enlighten us. This was my fourth time seeing Todd in concert – what talent!

Yeah, we think you’re an alright guy, Todd. We think you’re alright!

Ongoing battle in my household – how rugs should be placed.

Here’s how I like them:

Noticed this while signing the Guest Book at the DeGrazia Gallery in the Sun. Was Phil Collins in Tucson last week?

My dear friend Lisa flew down from Portland, OR for a visit last week. It began raining when she stepped out of the airport and stopped raining 3 days later when I returned her to the airport.

While not enjoyable for Lisa (since she deals with that kind of weather all the time) those of us who live here in southern Arizona were thrilled. Thank you for the wet weather and the good times!