I'm writing quickly because I'm getting ready to leave the office. Today is the Rings & Things Bead Show here in Milwaukee. I've attended other Rings & Things in the past and usually end up leaving with much more than originally intended. Twice per year, a group of Rings & Things' employees travel to major cities throughout the United States with pearls, gemstones, glass and collectible trade beads that are not part of their usual catalog. I'm especially fond of the beads from Africa. In fact, I'm putting the final touches on a project using some trade beads that I purchased from last year's show. From Milwaukee, the Rings & Things' gang will be traveling to Chicago, Grand Rapids, Detroit, then Cleveland. For a complete 2009 Bead Show Tour, visit rings-things.com.