Hot picks for summer

Here’s a smattering of perfect summer goodies.

Friendship Bell - This bell rings with the joy and laughter of friendship, and like an outstretched hand it offers the peace and safety of a trusted relationship. This cast bronze piece lets friends know that all are welcome in your home. A wonderful wedding or commitment gift.

Picnic Baskets – Designer April Cornell’s handsome wicker picnic baskets are a feast for the eyes. Each ample basket includes wine glasses, plates, flatware and napkins for two, and a spot to hold the wine bottle. The only thing missing is the food! A perfect wedding, partnership or anniversary gift.

Here Kitty, Kitty – Meet Boo the Birdwatcher, Felicity the Flowery Feline and Patty Fat Cat. Each is cast in durable stone with an antique gray finish that works well indoors or outside. And they each come with their own distinct personality – just like the real thing! Add link.

Desert Platters - Artist Jim Sudal’s ceramics truly reflect the spirit of the Southwest. Each of his platters is hand-thrown so no two pieces are exactly alike. Clay and glazes are non-toxic and completely food and plant safe. There are tree great designs: Agave, Aloe and Prickly Pear.

Just for You! - It’s no secret summer is tough on your skin. Ranch Hand Cream is a solid balm that does wonders to soothe dry, cracked hands and feet. Plus, your cuticles, elbows and knees will thank you. Trail Boss Bar does the same with the added benefit of arnica and St. John’s Wort to ease pains and bruises. All-natural ingredients melt right into your skin.

Flip-Flop Fun – Heading to a beach or a lake for some fun? Stock up on our citronella torches to take battle sand fleas and mosquitoes. They come in flip-flop and honeycomb designs and stake well in sand and the ground. Best of all they don’t melt or make a mess in a hot car.

Hot Enough? – Yes, it’s hot and we’re all obsessed with the temperature. To get an accurate reading on outside temps from inside your air-cooled home, try our great mosaic thermometer recently featured in Phoenix Home & Garden magazine.

Buddha – There’s a bold new Buddha in town and he’s sitting here at Southwest Gardener. He’s new to us and to Phoenix and we think he’s a fine looking guy. We like his countenance and hope you do, too. Add link.

St. Francis – Our beautiful St. Francis is back in stock and he’s a delight in any setting. Originally carved from wood this handsome version is cast in stone resin to withstand the elements. He’s great in a garden or a home and stands 25 inches tall.

Birdhouses – Local artist Linda Lyberg has brought her new birdhouses to roost. Each is hand-built and brightly decorated for maximum effect. Hang them from a hook or mount on a wall. A true collector’s item.

Water music – Flowing water is the perfect antidote for heat and our three new copper tabletop fountains will soothe your world. Each affordable model has its own tune. Ahh.