Time to post some of my Tucson images.
Got home yesterday after some pretty exhausting travelling. My sprained ankle had quite an effect on my Tucson schedule. Peter was quite happy with the slower than usual pace ;-)

What was most special for me this year was meeting up with so many of the people I interviewed for my book 'Beads from Tucson' last year. The response to the book was great, and I had quickly run out of extra copies. I will be thinking about a better way to distribute and/or get it published. Also, I can honestly say that the most special beads I brought home with me this year, are beads that were a gift from fellow bead enthousiasts.

On the images are some of the beads I will surely cherish.

I went by glass artist Kevin o' Grady to give him his copy of his book. We talkes a bit, but he was very busy. A few days later, J-Me said I should go back to see Kevin at the Best Bead Show...... And when I did, Kevin showed me two different chevron beads he made and asked me to pick which one I liked best. And then he gave it to me as a Thank You gift for the book. And what a gift it was. Peter told Kevin it takes a special bead to make me speechless.....

On the coldest and wettest day I went by the Grant Inn and had a great time talking to Bassem, Thomas and another dealer, Bill Boss. It was at this show that Danny Lopacki was also showing his great work. Peter and I were very welcome in his lovely warm room on this cold day. Danny gave me a beautiful Chinese turquoise bead he made, as a thank you for the book. You can see this bead in the picture next to the original stone. Danny promised that he will publish his knowledge on Chinese turquoise when he finds the time, which will be great. I love both the look and feel of this bead. Could not stop touching it when I was wearing it. There are so many stone beads found in Tucson, but this quality of stone and craft is very rare.