It has been an interesting week.  I know it is Wednesday, but I will count back for the last 7 days.  

I have seen my 3rd snake.  It is startling to see red and black slithering,  Fortunately it was white instead of yellow for the 3rd color.  The King snake was over 3 feet long.  I suppose I do not have to worry about rattle snakes as long as he stays in the yard.

The saws have a pop up tent over them now.  I have access to 3 of the 4 although one is not in the best spot.  I started cutting some Australian Lepidolite and a spinel in matrix.  Both are soft enough that I can finish the cubes on the drop saw once I have 3 good sides.  

Today I went to Cave Creek and picked up the rest of my Tucson rock purchases!  The truck was really loaded down and did not like the mountain climb from the Phoenix area.  I think I will put some red and green rhyolite in the saws tomorrow.  

Alan has decided to continue his part time employment for another month.  He is in LA now and comes back tomorrow night.  His boss doesn't even know that the guy they hired to replace Alan has accepted another job at an outside co.  Since it took 23 months to find a replacement before, I suspect they will be after hime to continue through the summer.  UGH!

The Maw Sit Sit sphere was a challenge.  I am pleased at how it turned out.  I should have purchased more than the 3 pieces in Tucson but the coffers were getting low.  I would have to say, I have not been able to find another one like it on the web.  (Bragging rights)

On the other hand, the chrysocolla / malachite in specular hematite is giving me headaches.  The chrysocolla keeps popping out.  It is probably due to the heat generated by the rotation.  I either need shorter run times with cool off periods in between or more water flowing while running.  Maybe both.  It will be interesting to see how the hematite will polish without getting hot.  

Thanks for reading......