Swallowtail on the lilac tree.

We've finally moved into summer....really hot here today and the lilac tree is now bursting...and it didn't take long for this little swallowtail to find it!

It's been an interesting day here!   There is a rather large group of travel writers from all across Canada, here on Cape Breton Island, finding out what is so amazing about this place!   So we're showing them!  The Centre for Craft & Design is such an amazing organizing here on Cape Breton, and so their first visit was to the gallery up in Sydney.   Then they split up into small groups, and i had 6 folks in the studio this morning - had to do my routine....history, funny stories etc., and then demo on the wheel.   2 of the women were game to try it and of course it all ended in total hilarity.  Hopefully they will write something nice about Big Hill retreat and the pottery.

Then i was booked to head up to Sydney to lead an ecstatic dance event....and i have to admit i was reluctant to go, but having made the commitment off i went!   Turned out that only the woman who owns the studio showed up...so we decided at 2 minutes past 2 we'd close up the studio, head to the local pub for lunch and glass of wine!   So sometimes plan B's are the best ones.   Bev and i have been trying to have a real visit for months....it was awesome.  Sitting out in the sunshine, lovely food and a glass of wine....and of course the company of a kindred spirit!

Still really beautiful out there, but the bugs are a pain in the ass for sure!   but all in all a very interesting day!