Red in the rain

A dreary rainy day, but then this handsome cardinal arrived to perch perfectly in the red twig variegated dogwood. Soon a little junco joined him, while his mate foraged for seeds kicked out of the feeder by the red squirrels.

Spring!

I usually post photos from Frog Song Pond over on my other blog site, The Daily Frog, but I can't resist sharing the arrival of the first ducks to cruise around the melting ice this morning. I know Mallards are common, but they still dazzle me. Check out that iridescent green on the drake's head, and the hen's dash of bright orange on her beak. In a world of late winter browns and grays, these colors are quite exciting.

A critter book project has made it to a sweet publisher's finalist list, so I'm holding my breath that I'll be collaging and leaf printing soon.

Update, 3/19: Check the frog blog HERE to see who else appeared today!! Very exciting....

OICUR4T!

Phil Hoose, wearing one of his many hats

Kirsten Cappy, in a fabulous hat created by Caldecott Honor Award

children's book illustrator, Melissa Sweet

It's not every day that a winner of a National Book Award and a Newbery Honor brings his band along to play for a surprise birthday party. But then it's not every day that an extraordinarily creative person like Kirsten Cappy turns 40. Phil Hoose, author of the award wining book, Claudette Colvin, Twice Toward Justice, and his spectacular band, Chipped Enamel, got the party rockin' at Zero Station in Portland, Maine.

Kirsten, owner and Magical Genius of Curious City, seemed surprised and delighted to see so many friends, clients and family members who had gathered to celebrate her. Guests had been invited to bring along an "impression on paper" of Kirsten, which resulted in an amazing collection of images from children's book illustrators and others.

Enjoy the party by checking out the photos HERE. Jamie Hogan has more HERE on her blog.