Parasol by Carol Schmitz

Advertising a sizeable rummage sale, a Harris’ Antelope Squirrel twirled a parasol–saguaro crust on a mesquite twig brightened up with acacia, Desert Fern, and Fairy Duster blossoms, then trimmed with scallops of scorpion tails.
The ground dwellers gleaned useful items from their pantries–husks, hulls, spines, insect parts, and assorted unmentionables. “I knew those rodents were hoarders,” a browsing thrasher confided to her mate.
The snakes, who could not make or wear hats, participated by selling their discarded skins. “Sheer chitin!” they called out to the shoppers. “Imagine the possibilities!”
Also offered for barter, in a secluded location, were rattlesnake rattles. Pricey and fragile, they were of dubious provenance.

Greeting cards from original paintings by Arizona artist Carolyn Schmitz. Whimsical portraits of wildlife and native plants from the mountains and deserts. Greeting cards are 5×7 and blank inside. The back of each card lists the native plants used in the painting. Envelopes are included.  Printed in the USA