Lampropetis Getula aka Eastern Kingsnake

After several rainy days, we finally spent some time outdoors and spotted this black snake slithering up our chimney!

When coiled up, its size wasn't nearly as impressive as when it stretched out to its full length. Using the dimensions of the bricks as a reference, we estimate the snake was at least 6 feet long.

Fortunately, this is a non-venomous snake. Even better, it can prey on other snakes—including venomous species such as the copperhead—so we consider it a welcome visitor!

If you're interested in learning more about these fascinating reptiles, including their habitat and other interesting facts, you can find additional information on Wikipedia.

So Simple, Yet So Tasty!

 It was Pan Haggerty night, and this recipe has quickly become a new favorite! Who would have thought that combining just a few simple ingredients could create such a delicious and comforting dish?

I followed a video tutorial on YouTube by CelticCreations79—a short, easy-to-follow 3-minute video that includes both the ingredients and step-by-step instructions. Here's the link to the recipe I used.

 

First Day of Summer

“Rest is not idleness, and to lie sometimes on the grass under trees on a summer’s day, listening to the murmur of the water, or watching the clouds float across the sky, is by no means a waste of time.”
– John Lubbock

 

Another Series of Desk Sitters

More Desk Sitters have joined the collection, each created from Jenga blocks.

These four are perched on unfinished Jenga blocks that have been cut in half, giving them a simple pedestal to rest upon.

For a closer look at how they came together, see my earlier posts from June 13 and June 9, where I share more of the process.

Vellum Laminated Reporter's Notebooks & More!

Continued descent into spiral bound madness!

I've laminated the covers of these 8 notebooks using 'Colorful Vellum' by Recollections for a vibrant, durable finish.

The 3 taller notebooks are classic 'Reporter's Notebooks', measuring 3.75" x 8.4", while the smaller notebooks were made from the leftover off-cuts, giving them a unique, handcrafted touch.

Inside, the white paper notebooks feature a mix of unlined, lined and graph cream-colored recycled paper. For a fun twist, the pink and lavender notebooks are filled with sturdy cardstock pages, perfect for writing, sketching, or crafting.

More Mini Colorful Notebooks!

More Colorful Mini Notebooks!

 These are four laminated mini notebooks, created in a style similar to my Chunky Colorful Notebook posted on 6/12/26.

Measure 3.5 x 5 inches and feature durable laminated covers. Inside, you'll find a variety of interactive elements, including pockets, flip-outs, journaling cards, envelopes, and additional tags secured with colorful paper clips.

Created using scrapbook papers from Echo Park, resulting in bright, cheerful designs that are both functional and fun for journaling or note-taking.

View 2 ASMR flip throughs below: 

More Jenga Blocks Transformed into Desk Sitters!

More Desk/Shelf Sitters crafted from wooden Jenga blocks! I created several additional pieces using digital artwork from my collection, which I printed onto rice paper.

Cut the Jenga blocks in half heightwise, and width of the rice paper was a perfect fit. The blocks were painted with FolkArt Cottage Green Milk Paint, then I adhered the artwork using Mod Podge. Distressed the blocks for a vintage look, added the text and sealed everything with a few final coats of Mod Podge.

For a few of the other desk/shelf sitters, I used FolkArt Vintage Mustard Chalk Paint and experimented with an IOD Fern Fables 2026 Collection transfer design. I love the extra character and charm these details added to the finished piece.

Measure 2.5" W x 3.75" H x 1.5" D.