Red, White, & ...

Blue? Oh yes! It is that time of year. While those colors are all around us...in whatever one of these United States one may be...in whatever branch of the Media one wishes to explore...all over...

Photo by Cathy Meader

...living on Washington Island, it seems Mother Nature has been working overtime being patriotic lately.

Photo by Anna Gibson 

It never dawned on me to check to see if these photographers were all capturing the same sunset. Maybe they were. I am just so thankful they were able to capture these images. 

Photo by Susan Ulm

So timely...a reminder we are merely a part of a much bigger picture. A time to feel thankful, proud, fortunate.

Photo by Christine Anderson

Funny thing happened tonight as I was scrolling through photos from the "July" folder. I came across this vignette  dated July 4, 2013. I guess this pattern is always around. This year I noticed. Enjoy those colors! We have great opportunities this weekend here on the Island. Among many activities, here are a few favorites:

Start Saturday at the Firehouse!

Photo by Tim Sweet

This starry rendition of the red, white, & blues reminds me of...

End your 4th with Fireworks at the Ball Field, courtesy of the Washington Island Fire Department! Please be generous when you see the fire helmet or boot or mail your contribution to WIFD Washington Island, WI 54246! Some years the costs are covered and some years are not so lucky yet, each time seems better than the last ... be there at Dusk!

'til next time ...

The Cup plus 2

Fathers Day is almost here so I thought I would frame this post with Lew in mind... his "Likes", that is. First off? 

The Day tends to start off at the Cup. However, this is a hard choice ... Lew does split his time with the many early morning places like the Danish Mill and KK's... and then there's Holiday Inn. 

Happiness! 

Summer is more than blooming flowers and haunting sunsets ... Summer is about the choices!  While each gathering place has its own personality, they all offer fellowship ... camaraderie!

Lots of conversation happens in these places ... some topics veer into areas which Lew really cares about ...

Water? Boats? Oh my goodness, yes. That would be a definite "Like", yes. Here's to all the folks who have this habit.

 Living in a town surrounded by water does humor this addiction ... am thinking Lew is not the only person feeling pretty fortunate.

This leads to another happening coming up on Friday. (The Bulletin Board at the Red Cup is a font of information and not to be missed.) See note above. The whitefish is the best and talk about meeting your neighbors!

Water is important to Lew but so is Nature on land, especially when he is able to spend time with his son, Doug. Father & son ... a good thing? Yup! Father proud of son's artistic talent ... Yup! Okay, so this is not on the Island ... but we are heading into a time when lots of relatives will be visiting their kin here ... it doesn't matter exactly where events like this happen, it's just great when it does ... enjoy it!

So when Doug contributed a painting to one of his Dad's  other "Likes" -  the Art and Nature Center  - that was pretty special.  Family is about giving, volunteering, caring. We hope that our children develop those characteristics and it feels pretty good when we see it occur. 

The Canvas Quilt continues ... check it out at the ANC. There was much volunteering to make this project happen. The ANC is indebted to all who contributed/are contributing to this 150+paintings  project!

Back to living on the Water, when is Lew the happiest? When he is headed back to the Island!  His likes: fellowship, family, and places to enjoy both. Seems that there may be more than a few Dads who feel the same way.

photo by Susan Ulm

Happy Fathers Day from Washington Island!

til next time ...

Main Road: fun times from one end to the other!

This week the weather has been changeable with some days sunny and others with clouds and  a steady rain. Whatever the weather, nothing will stop some activities I have been watching on Main Road.

Right at the four-way stop at Lobdell Point Road, The Albatross is open ... DAILY!  Let the lines for ice cream begin. Oh, wait! They already have!

Just down from the Alby, a banner announces the 50th Anniversary of the Washington Island Art & Nature Center.  Lots of planning (and hard work!) has been going on for this special year at the ANC.

Mother Nature gives us a break though with a lovely display of lilacs at several locations on Main Road.

Not many towns or cities can say they are home to several functioning farms. The Island can! There are timely things to notice and worth a pause, as traffic will allow.

As I stopped to take a look, I did a double take when I saw not one but two young ones!

Just past the livestock comes the location of a big event today and that is the opening reception of the Art & Nature Center.

These two ladies are responsible for much of the preparation for this Island non-profit's Anniversary Season and they take little credit. The person with the "Yes, this will all get done" look is artist Cathy Meader. I think it is evident that Cathy is a former teacher ... it is that look. She is spearheading the Anniversary Canvas Quilt Project. This includes sending, receiving, and organizing 140 to 150 8X10 canvases.

Laura Waldron is the ANC Director. Laura wil be hanging all the work brought in by artists in the remainder of the gallery. The artists have been busy over the Winter!

A wide variety of pieces wait patiently in a process that Laura has enjoyed over her years as Director.

Cathy has organized the quilt as well as the system which will keep the "winners" of each painting a secret until they are distributed at the Anniversary Party in July. The proceeds for these artist donated "Quilt Blocks" will subsidize the refurbishing efforts of the former Washington  Harbor Schoolhouse where the ANC is housed. The building harkens back to its 1904 roots and needs a little -maybe not so little- help. Do stop and see the new storage shed as it nears completion.   Over the years, materials for events have evolved and space to store said supplies has had to be reconsidered.  The new shed replaces other structures on the property. 

How does it all work? Well, stop by the reception at 1799 Main Road
to find out or call the ANC @ (920) 847-2025. Do message me at Island Mettle on Facebook  or in the Comments below if I can be of help.

The tickets will go fast ...

By the way, there is a nifty Summer planned for the ANC's neighbor, Bethel Church, as well but that deserves its own post.

Here's to having a fun time on Main Road this Summer!

... A Community ... an Island Community

... lilac time 

It is Friday and the weekend is upon us. On the Island, today is a very special day on its own.

Graphic by Laura Findlay Hagen

As I put this post together, the End of Year Picnic is going on. So, by the time this is read, it  will probably be over. I think it is still worth noting. Always good to check out the signs posted around the Island.

Spotted at the Rec

Coming up next week is the Washington Island Community Blood Drive.  Looking through photos to post to the Island Mettle Facebook Page, I noticed the announcement below on this one. It's time for Graduation!

Every year the entire Island community is invited to the End of Year Picnic as well as Graduation. They are fun events to attend because everyone knows the children who live here. There have been anywhere from 3 to 12 or so in the Senior class at the ceremonies I have attended.

...from the 2013 Graduation

This year is unique as there is one Graduate, yet the whole Island will turn out. Everyone has watched her grow up and they will celebrate with her!

Yay Sievers!

One school closes and another is opening. Sievers is 37 this year. For a lovely post on their opening, go to their newsletter here.

Beginning of Baseball Season ... well, not exactly. But it is the first home game!

It is also special because Jim Sorenson will be announcing and Island Community Band will be making an appearance! This Sunday ... be there!

from Brick Alley in Sturgeon Bay

Congratulations, Graduate!

Till next time ... 

Open!

The Island is greening up! The trees are blossoming. The birds are singing. It is the first day of June and it feels like Spring is here.

A Happy Boy... 

The Season has begun. It must have ... I just caught Lew listening to NOAA, the weather radio. As I write this, it is after midnight ... yes, Mockingbird is in the water and ready to go ...if the weather permits!

Intent activity at the Danish Mill... 

The Danish Mill is open daily til 5:00 pm. Pastries, sandwiches, soups?  It is all delicious. There is WIFI, too. This family was camping so even the electric hook up was appealing.

Red handles are a good thing ...

It is warm enough for me to get out and start to garden. I love gardening! I misplaced my shears for the first time this year. The tradition continues ... oh yes, the Season is here.

I'm told it's fun ...

Walks on Lobdell Pt. Road are getting interesting, too. While the changing colors and the signs of Nature's progress are appealing, the human activity is increasing ...bicyclists ... even skateboarders ...then I saw my first Segway Tour!

Love those purple petunias ...

Let's not forget the Deli is open at Mann's Store. That means made to order sandwiches ...

Yum!

and of course, Marlene's Potato Salad!

Always an adventure!

Shops are getting busier. I was checking out old windows at Anna's Island Style the other day and was told those pictured above were already sold ... oh well. Best to check her stock frequently as things come and go quickly and it is always nice to see Anna's smile!

A fun time!

Another sign? The Washington Island Music Fest had their Maifest Benefit. Music was lovely, food was delicious, and the Silent Auction was a success! This year, Island businesses and organizations were asked to decorate a table. People stepped up and every table had its own theme with the traveling trophy awarded to the Washington Island Literary Festival.

Checking things out ... photo by Jim Robinson.

Well, it looks like Lew is happy as he is out and about. Mockingbird is running more smoothly thanks to Butch Jess! 

Spring? Summer? Whatever! The signs are here and the Island is open!

Another Opening ... Another Show!

Walks are resuming for me on Lobdell Pt. Road. When one looks close, there is much to be seen. 

But then, isn't that true in many avenues of Life?

While we thought Donna Russell's  - she's in the middle here - big projects this Winter were to help host the Island Picnic in Florida as well as devote much time to the Island Party held at Karly's Hall in April, she had something else on her mind.

One that included having attendees looking into the corners of their closets for vintage attire.

Donna even prevailed on some to provide "age appropriate" vehicles as lawn decor. This woman is thorough.

So with everything in place, people gave their rapt attention to an initial reading of Dear Rhoda, a play er, rather musical Donna based on a trunkful of letters. How she came into possession of that trunk and what it contained is indeed a story worth writing. Donna did just that. Fast forward many years and the fruits of her labors were realized. I won't say how many tears were shed as she saw it come to life but I think the word "buckets" was mentioned at some point.

 Did I say no one refuses this woman? Well, when a couple of hiccups occurred in May, the play went on. No matter that her male lead had to bow out and her female lead broke her arm, here is the cast and audience giving stand-in Tony Woodruff and Rylee Johnson (who gives new meaning to the word "cast") a special round of applause. 

Here are the people who helped Donna make Dear Rhoda happen. Donna's husband, Larry Russell, (right) was her support through this many year process. Long time Island Players director, Dave Ranney (left) read her draft, encouraged her, and spent  his Winter working with Donna to further develop the piece.

Dave thought it would add a bit of fun to include a group of young Flapper Girls and we found out how the term "Flapper" came to be.

What a team! Dave followed up on the structure, researched the history of the time and knew when to stay out of Donna's way.  Donna?  Well, she realized the treasure she had in the details, the moments those letters captured. What a gift she has given to Rhoda and Jerry.

Just like those trillium that struggle through the brambles and debris of the forest floor bringing Spring along, the letters have been recognized as elements that help us learn about those who came before us and managed their way through Life. The efforts to mount the production was supported by many in this Island community and comes as no surprise to those who know Washington Island. It will be fun to see what is next for  Dear Rhoda.

It reminds me of a box holder that just came in the mail from the School. For me, that last paragraph says so much. It's in the details, the conscious noticing and caring of the small things that can lead to making such a difference in the bigger picture ...in one's life...one's future.

"Standing Tall"

Til next time...

For the Birds...

When I saw Ham's photo the other day, I knew it was time for a bird post. Different birds are lured by different things and Baltimore Orioles are attracted by/to oranges. So when Chari and Ham noticed a couple of those birds out and about, the oranges appeared on deck so they could have a closer look. I wouldn't mess with this orange section as it seems this Oriole has claimed it, don't you think?

           "Mine"   Photo by Ham Rutledge

Spring is here...the weather is cold one day and mild another. Internet service can be iffy. However, one thing is for sure...the birds are returning.  I am new to birding but have learned quite a bit over the past years from helpful, encouraging birders on the Island. We have much to see here as our island is a stopping point on many birds migratory path. We are very lucky!

Snowy owls were out and about on the Island this December. That was cool! Melody was surprised by this one while taking a photo of a different bird. Birds can be photo bombers!

Oh yes, we saw many birds in Florida this Winter. Even spent some time at "Ding" Darling National Wildlife Refuge. Identified an Anhinga ... quite a dramatic bird. After that I was able to find them in our neighborhood... fun to watch as they preen.

I have learned quite a bit about Cape Coral since I made this decision to winter here. One being, there are owls there, too!  Cape Coral is a center for Burrowing Owls. They are protected under Florida state law and are found throughout the state although Cape Coral seems to be a real gathering place! Given the disturbed soil and large open spaces, these pint sized cuties have made this place their "go to" place, on a year round basis.

Being somewhat new at birding, it was so much fun finding them on my walks and getting to observe them close up ...well, no more than 20 feet. A nature group stakes off the burrows and roosts and posts signs. While they do fly a bit, burrowing owls tend to make their home on the ground or under it so, it was easy to find and follow them.

 About the size of a soda can, the owls are quite photogenic .... Mother Nature has done a good job in giving them coloring that blends with their surroundings. Endangered in Canada, Mexico, and in parts of the US (Minnesota and Iowa), the burrowing owl is considered a " Species of Special Concern" in six states including Florida.

If one can be found there is usually another not far away. Burrowing owls tend to be in pairs. Sounds vary as with many species. When they are on alert or protection mode, their call can be rather "chirpy". The little one to the right might be getting a bit concerned as the body is straighter and taller with the legs starting to stretch out a bit.

I was surprised by the photo bomber here as I was focusing on the far one and this one literally did a "jack in the box" pop up into the shot. That "chirpy" sound was evident! He/she was telling me a thing or two. I wasn't even that close...but then, maybe there were babies to protect down in the burrow.

I was lucky to see this family before I left. Funny thing, the burrow was located across from a preschool.

All of this talk about birds is leading somewhere. The Door Islands Bird Festival is coming up ... quickly! Each year is different. Never know what will be seen.

It should be fun!

til next time ...

Signs of Spring

I posted the photo below last week on the Island Mettle Face Book page. Many responses came in ... favorable ones. We were on a walk on a stopover in Indianapolis. Since we are all thirsting for a bit of color, I thought I would share it here.

Oldfields Gardens, Indianapolis

 Funny thing...this garden had a designer (Percival Gallagher) from the same firm (Olmsted Brothers) which was responsible for the gardens I highlighted in last week's post from the Druid Hills section of Atlanta... small world! Beautiful ravines, and lovely elements are included here as well. Looks like the makings of a painting to me. I just love Red Bud! 

White Bleeding Hearts

This reminds me of the bleeding hearts we have on the Island, although ours are reddish in color...soon...soon!

Forget Me Nots

We have these in our yard as well ...spreading out more and more as the years move along. Not sure if these are out yet but I have word that hepatica, bloodroot, and scilla are becoming visible!

It all takes time...signs of Spring this year on the Island are evident...just different from the mainland.

Photo by Jennifer Perez

Over the weekend, Tommy joined a group of volunteers at the Trueblood Performing Arts Center to "Wake Up the Gardens". I remember him from last year. 

Photo by Jennifer Perez

At first, when I saw this image online, I thought Tommy had made the best discovery of the day! Upon research, I found I just might be right. His mother tells me this is/was a deer which Tommy has kept an eye on for about three years in the woods near TPAC. Ask him about it when you see him. He will be glad to share ... in every minute detail...as only a young one can.

       Photo by Cathy Meader

Another sign of Spring? Sea trials! The Littoral Combat Ship USS Milwaukee was observed on sea trials out of Marinette.  Cathy used the Fish Tug C&R to give a little perspective as to size and per portion. I would guess it opened a few eyes on the Island.

Photo by Susan Ulm

One more observation this week. A heavy duty nest means eagles may be in residence. One could say it is just in time for Mothers Day. 

So there is a bit of Spring happening on the Island. One just needs to have a different focus. Be open to new things. Give things time.

Til next time...

Happy Birthday .....

This past week was amazing! On our way to the Island we were able to stop over in Atlanta to see Doug participate in the inaugural Olmsted Plein Air Invitational.  Springtime in Atlanta was not a bad thing! In fact, the Invitational started with the artists assembling on Earth Day and Sunday would have been the Linear Park's Frederick Law Olmsted's 193rd birthday. This celebration of Art in Nature seems to be an appropriate way to celebrate these events.

The parks are actually a string of six parks. Shadyside Park is an example of the structure and environment where this event was set.

The Olmsted Plein Air  celebrates the work of the recently completed restoration and will aid in supporting the continued maintenance of these urban parks.

Thirty artists were invited to attend the intense four day event. (I'm tired and all I did was attend.) Work was created throughout the 2+ mile length of the parks.  

After a search Thursday morning, Doug had settled on a creek he found  in a ravine in Deepdene Park. Leave it to a Clarke to find a water feature on that first day. My thanks to the Eagle Scout who had just finished a trail down to that spot!

The need for figures and focal points were solved with among other things, vintage cars. So Lew was kept busy inspecting although Doug had other things in mind to paint.

Painting at the Majestic Diner ...

Wherever/Whenever Doug paints, nocturne comes into play.  He has always been a night owl and the weather has never bothered him. So, it was natural to seek out a legendary 24 hour establishment on the edge of the boundary. The rules said the scene had to be able to be viewed from within the boundaries. It was Doug's kind of thing...the lights would stay on and there was always coffee.

Photo by Kirk Larsen

I think Doug was honored to be in such good company...and he sold some work, too. The days were packed but the chance to paint with and learn from this company was valuable. It was a chance to make new contacts and renew old acquaintances.

Painting Tatiana... 

The last event, the Paint Quick, drew painters from around the area increasing the group to about 100 on Sunday. Participants had about two hours to paint. The invitational division was encouraged to paint in the central Artists Village and Doug found a willing model. Tatiana was lovely, cooperative and patient! Hopefully, traffic improved for their business! 

I think Lew had a good time...I know I did. We were fortunate to share this time with Douglas. The weather cooperated and the warmth of this creative group was something to treasure. Olmsted would be please to see his vision complete and functioning in this way. 

Here's my favorite, "Deepdene" .....

til next time... 

getting ready...

I started pulling this post together in one of "those" coffee places. The one that begins and ends with "s". They're not so bad...the Red Cup has just spoiled us for other coffee houses...so glad they are open again!

Oh, we have found some nifty independent coffee spots...like this German one. The European influence is unique and the conversation inviting. Given the lovely pastries and lunch items, it reminds me of the Danish Mill. I hear it is open again as well. Maybe there is a reason to think about heading North.

Then there was the one with the mural. It certainly grabbed my attention...but I like the mural at the Red Cup better...then again, there is that gnome at the Danish Mill...hmmm, my mind keeps wandering today.

But independent coffee houses don't have cards like these. Who knew there could be a (sort of) Island connection with a mainstream establishment so far away? What/Who might that connection be? This woman with an amazing voice is hitting her stride with a newly released solo album. (Do check it out.) A lead singer with the Carolina Chocolate Drops, Rhiannon Giddens spent part of her Winter working with the Birds of Chicago on their "in the works/ soon to be released" CD, Real Midnight. There's the connection...the Birds!

             From Birds of Chicago Facebook page

Members of that intriguing, pithy group have spent a good amount of their growing up years here. Oops ... there's that thinking about the Island thing again.

Okay, one last haircut - ✔️ 

Get the Jeep serviced - ✔️

Yearly condo A/C appt. - ✔️ 

 Photo by Kathleen Dixon

One last beach day ... but, water reminds me ... Stop That!

Time to hit the road! 

Til next time... 

Why Island Mettle?

As I started to think about a new title or theme for this blog, lots of possibilities came to mind. Being away from the Island I could look at this new adventure/concept somewhat objectively. My mind kept coming back to the strength, fortitude of the people who live there... pluck if you will.

So in using those synonyms, I searched...I Googled...Mettle came up and I liked it...so did a small group of my supporters. It just seemed right.  I find the Island is a special place. Mother Nature is a part of that.

This photo by Donna Benson shows what the weather was like over the weekend. However, the wind did work in quite nicely in one way. 

Over in Jackson Harbor, this lovely image from Melody Walsh, shows that the ice has started to move out allowing the Seediver to return! This is a sure sign that the seasons are changing. It means we can hit the road soon.

 I have managed Winter (Spring) on the Island enough to have  great admiration for the folks who remained there this year. There is another side to this blog effort and that is it has turned into a team effort. Whereever I am, I couldn't do what I do without the ideas, material, images, and encouragement of those folks who live on the Island or just love it and visit.

It says so much for this place. There is a giving nature, an interest in others on this Island. People have been so generous and the creation of this blog is an example of how this Island can enrich and inspire...so I guess it is more than just Mother Nature but her actions have a part in it.

Spring is coming on.... This painting by Andrew Wyeth was shared the other day by Laura Findlay Hagen by way of the website I Require Art. Can't wait to get back and get those windows open! I just love Wyeth.

Til next time...

Simple...Complex...Stuck!

I had a good bit of time to think this past Winter...which was a good thing as there have been  some changes in my life, but then, everyone must go through changes.

Some things were frustrating...we lost our website, www.cottageonthebay.net. One day it just disappeared. That was interesting.

Other things were somewhat planned. We sold our Cottage... the "Cottage" of "Cottage on the Bay".  Although that whole experience happened a bit more quickly than I thought it would. Looking back on that experience, the work of "saying good bye" to the Cottage might make me think twice about it if it were to happen again!

Some things were more earth shaking...we lost a family member...my dear Aunt Nell...in December. That was hard. I am not alone in that agony. Over the past year, the Island and its families have lost many very significant people in their lives.

Even though change is what Life is about, it is easier to say or write those words than it is comprehend, accept, and implement the next steps to continue the process of living.

I have gone through a period of time where I found myself stuck. After much rumination, I do have some thoughts/ideas that keep coming to the surface:

1. I want to continue this form of communication. There will be another learning curve though as this is (of course) a new version of Squarespace. Please hang in there! I find having to learn new things helps me focus. My synapses have more activity...a good thing. (At least, that is what I keep telling myself.)
2. A new name was needed as we lost the reason - on many levels - for the former one. Say hello to Island Mettle. There is more to be said on this albeit in a future post.
3. This new site is a work in progress. Good news is my tech wizard, Doug, was able to migrate all the posts from the Cottage Blog to this new site. New posts will appear here as well.
4. The Facebook Page will continue under the new moniker, "Island Mettle" as there is much to share on a daily basis. 

So this life chapter begins...the ride may be (will be) bumpy but hopefully it will be interesting!

Sounds like a plan...til next time!

More like Condo on the Canal...

The Winter has had its way with me. That is, last Winter did.

Do know there are great things happening on the Island in Winter, especially right now. The Ice Party this coming weekend is just part of the festivities of the Fish Derby on the Island.

This year, proceeds from the Ice Party will go toward the Weather Bug meterology installation at the School.

"It's wheels on ice time." says Photographer Susan Ulm.

Anna Gibson took this photo on a walk along the west shore. She says this drift was 3 to 4 feet over her head. Picture that. Never know what will be found around the corner on the Island.

However, things Island are happening everywhere...even far afield. 

Julian and Kenny are at FitzGerald's in Berwyn with an Island Fishboil and a Fiddlers Green-style jam. (Photo by Domani Tripam)

Oh, I do digress ... it is fun to see happens as Winter presses on! 

I took the leap and have chosen to spend this Winter off Island...

The ice was getting scary to me/for me. Yup, it is a little warmer here, more like Spring.

So, I will be reporting from Condo on the Canal* ... for a while. Things are interesting here, too.

 Let's see where this goes.

To be continued ... next time.

* Photo by Frank Maxwell

Hello...again!

I have been doing a lot of thinking lately ... spending much time reading, researching, too. So the thought of dipping a toe into the waters of posting seems to  be fun again. I am not much of a football fan, although the ads do/will lure me to the TV later today. Weather and Winter is more on my mind. 

Tumbler is a regular read for me and this is what came up today. (I just love researching and am happy I am at a stage in Life where I have time to do it!) This is for friends and family in the snow zone. Typologist is the source. They highlighted a book published in 1863. One thing leads to another in their post and I have gathered two more sources ... love that!

On the Island, weather just seems to be cold...very cold. I saw 7 on the weather forecast just now. Little snow for them for a while. It looks like points South are winning the Snow Bowl today. Susan Ulm took the lovely shot above with her "dash cam" near the ferry dock about a week ago.

People come and go from the Island no matter the weather. Low Small's recent photo typifies the commute to the mainland. I like his FB comment on this, "Making ice cubes on the way to Northport."

Then there's this photo by Lorel Gordon which must be shared on a Sunday, I think. Sunsets continue to be gorgeous ... precious. This one gives one pause and permission to stop and relect a moment. Thanks for sharing, Lorel. 

Throughout January, this was merely a sample of lovely images that have delighted me...tempted me.  As they were posted on Facebook the urge to collect, assimilate and post tickled the brain cells. The urge to continue is there/here. Ideas are percolating and blog is/will be evolving...format? Who knows? Just thought I would let you all know I am still here.

So, send me your thoughts, your photos, and stay warm.

Til next time...

Copyright © Deborah Wuellner-Clarke 2015. All rights, imagery & content reserved.

Changes ... Choices ... Hiatus

 Lots of changes going on. Autumn can be like that. 

The temps and the weather shook us up a bit last week with some extreme changes. The forecast warned us that a storm was due. So it was time to grab the moment and get perhaps a last decent ride on Mockingbird.

It has been an unseasonably cool Summer with lots of commitments so a trip over to Fred & Fuzzy's was not at the top of our list ... until the day before the storm.

Lew was a bit trepidacious but with the weather radio forecast memorized and binoculars, coffee, camera, and a bottle of Gorilla Glue on board, I figured we were good to go ...and we did. It was a great day! I can only encourage folks to grab the moment when the timing seems right. Trust those instincts!

The day ended beautifully with a campfire ... we were very lucky.

That Tuesday has been added to our collection of lovely memories on Figenschau Bay. 

 Wednesday blew in a predicted change in the weather with huge wind gusts and more rain. Look closely in the photo above to see Rock Island Dock under all those waves...Fall has arrived. (Christopher Smith Photo) That special day meant even more to me as we have been busy with some  other changes ... I have very mixed emotions right now.

We have had the Cottage and the business for about 20 years ... with many great friendships made along the way. However, the moment seemed right, to close this door. So, I will be taking a break. There are many loose ends that need attention ... a hiatus is in order... for a while! 

This sunset is one of the first that appeared here over two years ago.  In fact, It continues to grace the Home Page.  So many folks - both friends, acquaintances, as well as complete strangers have graciously allowed me to use their images along the way. I thank you all! (Ginni Glass Photo)

The support of all you readers has been at both amazing and appreciated. I ask for your ideas as I look to reshaping this forum. The info on the Island continues to be of interest to me and given the following, people like to have a window on Life here. Living on an Island can be figurative and literal. 

Found this little figure when I was "turning over" the Cottage this Summer.  She has been a talisman for me sitting above the kitchen sink as I have been thinking about the Future lately. I have been using  The Facebook Link to Cottage on the Bay for current Island info, to-dos, etc. ... I encourage all to find me there &  take a look...updates will be posted as an interest or event arises.

So ... for now ... "Like" the Cottage on the Bay Page ... and ... keep in touch!

...til next time!

Fall for...the Island

 Fall aka Autumn means changes ...

 Some appropriate...yes, the colors of Fall have begun.

Some downright traditional... Door County Naturalists Charlotte & Roy Lukes return! Art & Nature Center invites all: 9/12 @ Trinity 7:30pm for a talk on native birds & wildflowers...9/13 @ Jackson Harbor Ridges 9:30 am -  hike with Roy ... 9/13 meet at ANC, 1:00pm to join Charlotte  for a hike to spot mushrooms (start out at the ANC.) 

Some changes are small but significant ... The action continues at TPAC with a performance by the Pro Arte Quartet on Saturday, the 13th...do note the time is at 5:00pm for this performance.

An anticipated event: Death's Door Spirits JUNIPER FEST is coming!  Pig Roast & Punch Party with all the trimmings Saturday, September 13th starting at 6:00pm @ Kkfiske Granary & The Koyen Collection. It's the 7th year for this celebration.

While Summer flew by with all of its activites, the folks at the Island Archives were busy planning, researching, and writing in preparation for the Archives Fall Fundraiser - Cemetery walk to be held Sept. 14 @ 1pm.  For several it was a labor of love as there are links between many of the writers and the historical Island individuals they have chosen to highlight.

It has been seven years since this event was produced. Come hear the results of the research and see the actors take on these roles ... learn/relive a bit of Washington Island History!

Some things don't change at all but we do need to recognize the timing...that is, Harvest Dinner is fast approaching and reservations need to be made. Do call Jeanie Young soon (although not after 9:00pm) if you wish to attend.

Changes in timing at restaurants too. Check ahead to confirm. I do know the Albatross has moved to long weekends and Fiddlers Green will be open Tues-Thurs. for Lunch...11:30 til Late on Fri. and Saturday when Kate reopens  this coming Tuesday after a well deserved break.

til next time!

Hazy, Crazy...8 last signs of Summer

Sneak in that last bit of Summer...Yes! I am thinking Summer is going to run on into September...I hope!

While the flowers are fooling us this year...who knew we would still have a healthy showing of lilies and daisies here?...there are signs...

1  Death's Door BBQ

It's the 3rd one and it was a wonderful event this past weekend. Plan on it next year... same time. 

 Great people!...25+ teams...each year it just keeps getting better.

Seems there was more BBQ to enjoy this year...Given the shirt, some folks might recognize/guess who was enjoying a chicken leg or two. 

 The event would not be possible without the many volunteers who turn out to help. Here are a few.

2.Last Performances at Red Barn...Eric Lewis returns for the show this Friday. Scenes from A Doll's House, the Winter Island Players Show on Saturday and Sunday.

 I know Dave Ranney directed/ is directing A Doll's House but I want to also make folks aware of a lovely article on an Island Players Icon, Joyce Morehouse. Written for a recent edition of Peninsula Pulse by Howard Scott.

3. School starting up...after Labor Day here...teachers are there tho for In Service Days.

 Those of you who know me are aware I am a retired teacher...so I remember how this time of year can be for teachers...Oh, those inservice days...oh my...so this is for those of you who have begun yet another year...Kudos to you! (From a teacher Facebook friend who will go nameless.)

4.Packers Pre Season Events!

This seems appropriate.

5.Ferry Schedule changes... 

Traveling up for Labor Day Weekend? Do check the schedule as the ferry is back on an hourly basis. 

 6. Rummage Sale! - It wouldn't be a holiday weekend w/o a Sale ...this one is for the fast approaching Chicago-Madison High School Trip...a message from Sue Cornell:

Just a reminder The Chicago/Madison Group is having a community Rummage Sale on Saturday August 30 from 9-12 in the Community Center. Donations can start being dropped off on Wednesday August 27th in the Gym. If you need items picked up contact me at school or Call Michelle Jordan or you can pm me. 

7. Flowers...some of them are on schedule - like these ... (Lauren Bangs Photo)

8. Not sure if this is what is meant by the phrase "dog days of Summer" but today is National Dog Day. I am appointing Duffy of the Jack-Scott household as official rep. (Melody Walsh photo)... What a cutie!

... til next time!

Back in Time...the dig on Plum Island

Activity on Plum Island Continues...

A familiar group returned to Plum Island last month to continue the exploration of the original lighthouse site.

USFWS Regional Historic Preservation Officer James Myster and Hamline University Anthropology Dept. Chair Brian Hoffman (here with their pilot Lew) found many of their first year crew wanted to make the trip as well. Two new members were added to the team for the two week field experience project. 

The thought was:  move the dig to July (from June) to provide opportunity for better weather. Anyone with experience in these parts knows this idea is a great hypothesis ... the result this year proved to be a good idea in theory however,  days on site were cancelled due to uncooperative weather... this experience was to give these archeology aficionados a taste of what can be truly expected if this work is pursued as a career.  Mother Nature did not disappoint!

In year 2, the kitchen was enlarged... with the initial work last year, the time was ripe for discovery. (Brian Hoffman Photo)

Everyone took turns digging, lifting, sifting meticulously. The unit was profiled to establish where artifacts were discovered. 

As artifacts were discovered each was carefully labeled and bagged to ensure it's location. (Brian Hoffman Photo)

Artifacts were cleaned and further cataloged at the team's temporary home base on Washington Island. Those  pieces shown above proved to be plaster fragments which indicated the kitchen was finished off perhaps more than expected given the time and location...interesting. 

The kitchen proved to be a source of finds. The discovery of nails speaks to a question as to how the bullding was constructed. As the dig progressed, more questions were raised. I bet we could all come up with a few questions.

Another query: What would family life be like? Given this isolated location and the known specific time period, this microcosm of life, culture and interests are intriguing to pursue. (Brian Hoffman Photo)

Various pieces of china turned up. Makes one wonder what hands held this "dish" ... What food was served on it ... what conversations went on as meals were prepared and consumed. (Brian Hoffman Photo)

Not all discoveries were still. This critter was found on a tree stump in the midst of digging! After fact checking with nature minded folks.* ANC Naturalist Steve Waldron identified it as a red newt ... it's interesting to think that a similar creature might have been discovered by a lighthouse keeper's child much like today's youngsters who bring their finds - snakes, toads, etc every summer to the Art & Nature Center...such fun to hypothesize! (Becky Strike Photo)

On a recent Work Day, FOPPI Volunteers Tansy & Brian post a new sign noting the work being done here. The site has been "put to bed" and artifacts have been transferred to the archeology lab at Hamline University where the next phase of research and documentation is taking place. Student Steve will be writing up the results in a final paper. This information will be used to provide background information as the Island opens to the public, hopefully next Summer. (Tim Sweet Photo) 

til next time...

*Here's a good source on newts from Melodie Walsh...Writing this Blog leads me to new things every day...never knew we had newts up here!

A little bit of music here & a little bit of fishing there...

I am posting early...it's Sunday and the weather is great. (Oh, it feels so good to say that!) Perfect for fishing and making a little music, too!

This one is for Washington Island Music Fest Musician Tim Klabunde who loves fishing as much (More? What a good question to ask him...hmmm.) as he does his violin... Yes, Tim there are still a few more fish ... er ... Concerts to do and I do see things for strings in/on the program. Remember to get off the Lake especially today as this Concert is an earlier one @ 4:30...AND ice cream may be involved.(Classical Musicians Everywhere - 'Catching Tunes' - by Andrea Orlic)

Last year, when I went to the rehearsal, I asked questions and Tim shared much info on violins. This year, all he wants to talk about is fishing! He is so happy! I think he catching more than a few. It could be the luxury of doing what you love to do and fish the rest of the time...maybe.

There is a lot of enthusiasm for ...fish right now.  Fishing has been good over by Rock Island, too! (Melody Walsh Photo)

Melody Walsh caught a great salmon this week...and Ranger Randy took a great photo...but then, it's hard to fail with this type of material!

One of the many things Lew does up here is transport and do odd (perhaps mechanical) jobs over on Plum Island for FOPPI and USFWS. The photo above was from last Summer and it seemed to typify the way things were.

It seems things are changing this Summer. This was the welcoming committee as we made a run over with for the archeology dig last month and it's true... things are progressing.

This weekend, I know the Island Fair is here but the ability to visit Plum Island  and see the work in progress as well as Nature at its best is tempting, too! Take advantage of it all! 

Summer is so short. One must rest up to be able to hit the ground running,

Coming Soon! It's Ida Maeve, 7 months strong with her Birds of Chicago Dad. I know it is sooo unfair and sooo manipulative of me to publicize an upcoming concert - August 16 @ TPAC - with a picture of a baby. However, the Island is looking forward to welcoming this little one when her parents as the Birds of Chicago present their concert at the TPAC Saturday, August 16...be there!

Summer is going so fast! Do this now...before it is too late!

Thanks to artist and photographer Lisa Russo! Check out where this pic came from -->https://www.etsy.com/ listing/176127554

til next time!

Music! It's here...but then it always has been.

Sometimes Life is just not fair...this week it has been my turn to be on the sick side of Life. Stress? Having too much to do? It happens. I didn't think it was possible to get sick in the Summer. Isn't there something in the Constitution about that? 

There is a wide range of Music here and there is a lot of it throughout the year. Proceeds from the Music Festival funds Music in the Schools for the children during the school year. The Island is a creative place... perhaps it is the ability to just be within Nature and the time we have to reflect... allows so much music to be created.

The Community Band, another outgrowth of the Music Festival, has had several concerts this year.

Let's not forget the excellent programs Dan Hansen puts together at the Red Barn. (Bill Staines - Country/Fol singer-Songwriter this Friday & Jake McDonald, Kristy Larson, & Mark Roeder appear this Saturday.)

Let's not forget those Jam Sessions into the night at Fiddler's Green throughout the Summer, into the Fall...the fun never stops...a wide variety of music can be had on the Island! I wonder/I bet there will be one after the Big Top Show next Thursday!

The 23rd Washington Island Music Festival has hit the Island. I missed the first concert but I heard it was a good one. 

Steve Colburn & Marlee Sabo came up with a great idea last year to help us stay organized about the various activities. They felt we needed a simple schedule to follow and had one printed up at their expense. It fits great on the refrigerator!

In honor of the Music Fest and the fact that Summer is really here (Many thanks to the musicians for bringing it with them.) Here's a musical reminder of what Winter was like here this year. Now this is from Siberia and it iinvolves percussion but I don't think that is such a stretch! Click here for a new winter musical idea!

Til next time!