The Importance of Connections!
After the flurry of the Garden Art Party, things haven’t slowed down one bit! On Mother’s Day weekend, we hosted a fun filled fused glass class for guests at the El Conquistador Hilton Resort. It was a lively afternoon filled with creativity, as both children and adults made beautiful glass nightlights—heartfelt gifts for their mothers.

Shortly after, we introduced a new garden sculpture, Rocket Man, to the website. The name came to me as the Beatles blasted in the studio—yes, I sang along and knew every word! This vibrant piece is full of movement and energy. Click here for more details on Rocket Man.

Mid-May to mid-June brought a wave of travel. I headed to North Carolina to reconnect with dear friends. I scooped up my BFF, Patsy, and we hit the road—visiting favorite old spots and spending time with Yvonne/Steve and Brenda/Quinn. It was a trip filled with laughter, seafood, stories, and the kind of connections that only comes with lifelong friends.

Back in Arizona, I had the pleasure of creating heart garden stakes for a retirement celebration—each one placed in the table centerpieces, spreading love and color.

Next, it was off to Colorado for a long-overdue sibling reunion with my sister Patti and brother Elvan. We hadn’t all been together in far too many years! I also stopped in to see our former Arizona neighbors, Karen and Marion, in their new Colorado home. It’s a beautiful space that perfectly suits their mother-daughter lifestyle—shared yet separate. We made a wonderful visit to the Denver Botanical Garden and The Flower Pot garden center.

Now back home, with the thermometer exceeding 100°, Paul and I are escaping to the cool breeze of Santa Monica for a few days. We’re looking forward to peaceful beach walks and a quick visit with Jake, Elif, and Jackson.

In other news, I recently entered the Wraptious Summer Cushion Competition! Keep an eye out for my entries on the Wraptious Facebook page. Every like or purchase earns the artist points—and I’d be honored if you supported my designs. I’ll share the link as soon as it goes live. The talent among the featured artists is truly inspiring!
Wherever you are, I hope you’re staying cool. We’re not the only ones dealing with extreme heat—so stay hydrated, wear your sunscreen, and take care of yourselves and others.
With love, Mary
5wdepc
So glad to see you’re doing so well! Your creativity continues to amaze and inspire. You are amazing! Give Paul our best and enjoy the continuance of all your wonderful adventures. Love to you both.
Mary, I’m glad you’re having a good time. Staying cool love the artwork. Enjoy your time in Santa Monica and your family. Love, Sally
Thanks,Sally! Walking the Santa Monica broad walk today! She you next week!
Good to hear all your news! Cool here in Montana. You are always welcome!!❤️
Hi Kay: Cool Montana sounds wonderful! You too are always welcome in the desert! Have a great summer!
Mary, always a pleasure to read your ongoing. Thanks for sharing your adventures, always a smile as I read. Hugs to you & Hello to Paul
Thanks, Jeannette! Glad it made you smile!
Mary, love love this update – you are truly amazing!!!
Thanks, Susan! I hope you are enjoying your summer. See you in the Fall!
It was so great to see you and Patsy at Yvonne’s ❤️
As always, I enjoy seeing your artwork and look forward to Wraptious going live… I will be watching!
Loved seeing you at Yvonne’s. The link to the Wraptious Competition is now live on FB. I would appreciate your vote!
It was great hearing from you. Seems that you are staying very busy. Phyllis
There is always something happening around here. Thanks for connecting! Say hi to Johnny!
Aww Mary, I miss you so much. You spread joy and caring wherever you go. Your talent is amazing and brings joy and memories to our lives. Thank you for being you❤️
Miss you, too! Thanks for kind words! Get Beth to bring you to Tucson!
Wonderful post, I loved seeing you in NC. You are right we need to actively stay in touch with our friends/chosen family. I love rocket man it is a beautiful piece.
Thanks, Yvonne! It was a great visit to your lake house. I hope I can do it more often. Yes, we need to stay connected!