Winter Windows

Here's another happening Winterwise...this one closer to home... Looking out one's window is a pastime for me right now. I saw a woodpecker today but the camera wasn't handy....but it started me on a quest...I asked friends for photos which typified their views ...Inside time now...Window with a view - The idea began with this photo. Susan Ulm shared this in December on Facebook and I have been champing at the bit to slip Bosun in. Isn't he sweet? Bosun's name comes from the nautical term "boatswain". So appropriate given a canine's key role in the household.Time to enjoy the view...There is beauty in the simplicity... (Susan Ulm) "Kitchen Window: Mrs. Cardinal Suns" (Susan Ulm)...appreciate the lack of color...It lets my mind calm down a bit.

Dusk...from Jan Wagner...sunsets are great in Winter too and we have time to see them even if they are a little more rapid.Thoreau was right... Oh! Almost forgot another view... through windows on water...during a recent crossing...and this one through a "cubby" on the Richter...That's it, for now!

Traveling Time

Another thing I do in the Winter? Travel! With that in mind, posting will take a break for the next week.

 

To be continued...

Have a great week!

 

Winter : odds & ends

Lots of things do happen in this quiet time.  The start of the year is Organizing Time for me.Let's just say it's a little more than a few dishes and a couple of books.  Where did all the mess come from? I thought I could manage the kitchen clutter but the other day I opened the frig and was shocked...the food seems to creep/appear in "dribs and drabs"...suffice it to say it is back under control....now.

 There will be no "after" staging shots. Suffice it to say, my schedule seems to have switched....I now do some Summer chores in the Winter. Organizing - while ongoing - is one of those things that kicks into a higher gear. 

It is so exciting to get fresh cleaning supplies ...notice a new set of dish/counter towels...No, it does not take much to make me happy...at least in January!

Another activity is "Fixing Things" ...Today? Looks like the grill needs a part or two replaced. Hopefully, the parts have been shipped and received and this job will need only one - or two - trips to the Mercantile ...and the Merc will still be open. We are serious grillers.

The January thaw has allowed for more chopping wood...and more wood...getting colder here...so we will need it. 

Look beyond the truck and do note that there is still water in Figenschau Bay.

Photo from the 8 AM ferry this past Thursday...there is some ice...The Richter is ready and waiting....at the Potato Dock.

Planning Ahead

Down Florida Way?  The annual Washington Island-Florida Picnic will be held on George Washington"s real birthday, Friday, February 22, 2013. This year the picnic is moving south to Naples. It will be held at Cape Sable Lakes clubhouse at 100 Cape Sable Drive. This is located just south of Radio Road between Livngston and Santa Barbara Roads. Anyone connected with Washington Island is invited to attend. Gather between 11 and 12 with the potluck served at noon. Bring your own plates, utensils, beverages, and a dish to pass.

Mark your calendar for the Island Party...The 2013 Island Party theme will be "Turn Back Time". This is the 60th year of Island Parties and the celebration will reflect the first Island Party in 1953. Save the date, April 27th.

Have a great week!

 

Winter Doings

A few years ago, the late Jay Hagen presented a talk on behalf of the Island Archives Committee. The topic centered on "What do we do in the Winter"...lots of laughs that night...that was Jay...what he said was so true. (That performance was taped and is available for purchase on DVD through the Archives at the Community Center. I do recommend it.) I get many questions from our Cottage guests on what happens in the Winter so I thought I would do a series on Winter Doings .... last week the dredging and winter travel prep was up.

There are a few activities coming that may make that travel worthwhile...so to plan ahead...

Pygmalion - Fishing Derby Weekend -

7 PM ----- Friday, February 15th
2 PM -- Saturday, February 16th
7 PM -- Saturday, February 16th

The members of Island Players are busy as the preparation for the winter show, Pygmalion, moves forward. I think the best part is the preparation given the smiles, titters, and giggles I see/hear around the Island at this point...  

Rich Shereikis wrote a telling interview for a Fall Observer issue:

"The real rewards of putting on a play don’t lie in the performances, according to Dave Ranney, who has directed a number of popular Island Players productions. “I really believe most of the fun of putting on a production are the rehearsals,” he says. “It’s a creative, collaborative process, where we work together to create a work of art.”To enhance his actors’ involvement in that process, Ranney listens to them, communicates with them and encourages them to put their personal stamps on characters and scenes.(Observer 11/15/12)Howard Scott has been cast as Henry Higgens and Anna Gibson has the role of Eliza Dolittle. I can't think of a better duo! Pygmalion is the classic tale of wily Cockney flower girl Eliza Doolittle and her transformation into a “proper lady” at the hands of the arrogant dialect expert Henry Higgins.In doing research for this post, I found it is the 100th anniversary of this timeless story and companies as near as Chicago and  as far off as England have productions this Winter. Shaw's Pygmalion was also the basis for the popular musical My Fair Lady.The photo above shows Eliza and Professor Higgins from the My Fair Lady company now on stage in Sheffield, England....hmmmm.... Yes, I can see Anna and Howard in these roles.

What do we do in the winter? Well, these folks are having fun ....and working hard.

Have a great week!

Upcoming - January 23 at the TPAC:

Washington Island Schools teacher, Lisa Cornell is scheduled to present seven high school students  who will be performing “Persuasive Speeches” in a public forum January 23, from 6-8 P.M.

 

 

Winter - A team effort

It is an interesting time of year on the Island... in some ways slower, quieter...

but in other ways, things are humming along. One thing on my mind is the ferry dredging progress. Up front, this is my version of the events and I am not a professional concerning water issues. Hence, I have hesitated to step into this area but since this sort of transportation is essential for the Island, here goes. It has been at a steady/urgent pace over the past several weeks with what seems - to me - just two days off at Christmas.The crew from Roen Salvage are here working with their barge. An excavator and dump trucks from Mike Kahr's Death's Door Marine arrived the day after Christmas. Mike arrived last week fresh off another job on the water at Fish Creek. Okay...I just had to include this photo...I hope Mike doesn't mind...it was a Kodak moment for me.Dump trucks carry the clay,stone, sand, muck, etc. from the barge at the Potato Dock to Julian Hagens's gravel pit. A hearty, conscientious group of Islanders drive those trucks. As I recall, since New Year's, two shifts from Roen have been in place.Hauling starts around 6:30 am carrying the softer material from the night digging and continues through the day into the evening with matter from the "hardpan" portion. As an example weather-wise, this afternoon it was sunny with the winds at 24 mph with gusts of 33mph - and the crew was out there at work. I am impressed to see how many different people, groups, entities have come together to make this project possible. This spirit of teamwork is evident in other places on this Island as well. It is one reason why I have chosen to be here.I could see skim ice in Detroit Harbor as we arrived on the afternoon ferry last Thursday so time is of the essence. We were on the Washington. The weather will dictate how long the Washington and the Eyrabakki can operate. They have a shallower draft, the portion of each vessel that is submerged,  so the lower water levels are not as much of a challenge for these two ferries. The "regular dock" can be used - for now. I have heard the Roen crews are hoping to work til/ finish on the 8th.A couple of other interesting facts......The rates will not change in 2013. The Board of Directors for the WIFL voted to maintain the current rates at the November meeting. Given the impending use of the Arni J. Richter as the ice sets in, I thought I would have to come to grips with the return of side loading.I remember when this was the custom on the former ice breaking ferry, C. G. Richter. But today I found the excavation will allow the Arni J. Richter to load as it does at the "regular dock". It looks like the amount of digging completed will allow truck traffic as well.Ticketing? Ticketing will be on a portable tablet-like system. According to what I see on the NOAA website, the weather could be above freezing for most of this week and once the temperature drops it will take some time for the harbor to ice over. I hasten to add there is a learning curve here. It will be a new process or challenge for all of us. Glad to see there is some time to continue to work on everything. Last year, the harbor was frozen over /ice breaker was needed about six weeks  Speaking for myself, I am thankful for the efforts I have observed. My thanks to Hoyt Purinton for allowing me to take some photos. This is going to be an interesting Winter, but then the Winter is always interesting on the Island...Over the holiday, I found I couldn't get away from low water levels. I come from a town in Southern Illinois located on the Mississippi River. St. Louis was a stop for us this Christmas and the water was in the news there, too.

It is day to day as to when commercial traffic on the Mississippi could cease given the troubled section south of St. Louis to Cairo. The photo above (from Reuters) shows crews clearing river-bottom rocks as well as what they call rock pinnacles as the water recedes near Thebes, Il, 150 miles south of St.Louis. Water from at least two lakes nearby has been released into the river but it may not be enough. The other negative is the forming of ice in the same area. It's known as "ice bite" - ice taking a bite out of the flow of the river toward the Gulf.

*At Alton, I have watched the flow of the Mississippi...the highs...the lows...sometimes harsh...but it has always been steady so this is interesting, too. Maybe living alongside water has helped me to understand, accept, respect life on the water here as well. Not sure how I would cope in a land-locked area!

 Up coming --

Center Stage

**Here's another team effort on the Island ...actually this is just a portion of this team...The Island Players team that is. The group hosted their first "Center Stage," an afternoon of humor through staged readings on Sunday. Held at the Rec. Center at 2:00, monthly performances will be held on the first Sunday of the month through May.  Complimentary refreshments are available at intermission and members of the audience are invited to try their hand in a reading during the second half of the program.

 


 

Lastly, this is a team that needs no introduction yet is an integral part of Island Life. Next Saturday - the 12th - The Packers meet the 49ers in San Fransisco @ 7pm. Go Pack!

Have a great week!

 

Photo Credits: *The Telegraph **2012 Island Players Center Stage

Saying Adieu to 2012!

As the New Year comes bustling in...It is fun to remember events from 2012.

Our newspaper is highly significant in Island Life. The year began with an announcement. The Observer had new owners and a new editorial team/structure. Their first issue published February 16.
The folks at the Observer have been most gracious in allowing their identified photos to be shared here throughout the year and for that I am thankful. The photo just below is one of theirs.2012 was a momentous year for an Island landmark. Gibson's West Harbor Resort recovered from a heart stopping fire. The Gibson family spent the Winter refurbishing the Resort. Many members of the community helped. Look close at the next photo, taken the morning after the fire.Love that Blue Crew! Talk about determination!The Resort's reopening occurred over Memorial Day Weekend as planned and the family celebrated the accomplishment with an Open House in August which was pretty special! Thanks to Anna Gibson for the two photos above.Kim West's lovely photo helps me remember some wonderful summer days.These Virginia Glass photos remind me of the reason we are in the "Cottage Business". A child's sense of wonder is so special......happy to see little ones have a chance to be out and about up here.A young man's first fish caught on the Island is a pretty nice thing too! However, to catch a fish, one must have water. This photo, taken by the fisherman pictured above, is from October, 2011. I know I went back a little further than this year but this does give one pause as to how the levels must have looked this October. The water levels will continue to be a point of discussion in the coming year.

This year end review would not be complete without noting the 1st Death's Door Barbeque held at the Airport at the end of August. The turnout from the Island and off Island was terrific. Many, many volunteers helped to pull this off. Good job Chamber of Commerce! Y'all plan ahead and get these dates on your calendars for 2013!

...Well, those are the highlights I remember re 2012...I thought of others but Lew said I was going overboard. Feel free to add your own ideas or memories.
As 2012 comes to a close, thought I would leave you with this thought...saw it at Linger Coffee House in Fish Creek this past year. It speaks to what I wish for you in the coming year... in your life...in your thoughts... at least once in a while...take a breath. Thanks for following my Island Blog this year.

Have a great week!

Christmas Eve Greetings

As we hit the road for our family visits this year, we passed this sign. I am happy to visit folks but am already looking forward to returning. Christmas Eve is a special time. It should be cherished but it can be hectic and frustrating so I thought a little "background data" will help all readers, whether you are near or far away get through this special time.I have fond memories of my family Christmas celebrations. One was waiting for Santa to come...wondering where he was on his "route". Now we can even help our youngsters follow his path through NORAD with apps and links. tracking Santa is a 57-year-long holiday tradition at NORAD. Yes, I do remember as a youngster when this program started...it was so exciting! At that time, we could call the hotline.  Given those memories, I decided this year to do a little research.

The NORAD website is quite complete; one can tell that this tradition has been in place for quite a while. NORAD's involvement dates back to a 1955 advertisement in a local Sears, Roebuck & Co. department store asking children to call Santa directly. But the phone number in the ad contained a typo. Instead of reaching Santa's private phone, the children gained direct access to the Continental Air Defense Command, NORAD's predecessor. Colonel Harry Shoup was working that Christmas Eve when the first child called. Shoup instructed his staff to check the radar for signs of Santa, relayed the information to the children, and the tradition was born.

Do visit www.noradsanta.org, call the hotline at 1-877-HI-NORAD, or email noradtrackssanta@outlook.com on Christmas Eve to get information on Santa's location. Last year, NORAD fielded over 102,000 phone calls and 7,700 emails. 

So, how does Santa deliver all those gifts in one night? Here's are some helpful bits of info for parents: 

"Every December 24th since 1955 we have been telling children exactly where Santa is so that children all over the world can make sure that they're in bed on time so that Santa will deliver their presents," explained Stacey Knott, a deputy chief at NORAD, U.S.-Canadian military organization based in Colorado. "Number one, Santa flies faster than starlight," said Knott. "But we're not completely sure how he does it. It's a little bit of magic." Knott said NORAD relies heavily on partners and volunteers to run the project."We have 1,200 volunteers who will come in and will tell people where Santa is located," she added. For more help, check the FAQ section on Santa on their website! Love this!

Another thing I am liking as I putter around the Island are the indoor Christmas decorations - especially the Christmas trees. Since traveling at this time of year is part of our holiday tradition, we don't put up a tree so it's fun to see them. There is a very nice one at Findlay's Holiday Inn. It reminds me of their Christmas in July celebrations. This year, Jim and Kathy plan to be open on Christmas morning. Do call for the hours and come and enjoy breakfast in a festive location.I also love this one...the mitten tree at Trinity Lutheran Church. For several years, mittens, scarves, and other warm accessories many (most?) hand made are collected for the homeless in the Fellowship Hall as part of holiday preparations. This years collection will be distributed in Madison. Another good thing happening on our Island. Thanks to Pat Clarke for this photo.

Oh yes, we did get some snow in time for Christmas...just enough to make everything pretty. (Photo courtesy of the Observer.)We do wish you all a Happy Holiday!

Have a great week!

The Holidays...Hmmmm


The Holiday Season is moving along and lots of things are happening! The Christmas at TPAC Show was held this past Friday. Given the heart breaking tragic events at Sandy Hook School in Connecticut, we were indeed fortunate to gather as a community for this occasion.  The place was packed. Children of all ages performed....various ages of adults performed too.When children are part of the program, lots of people come out to cheer them on. The Preschoolers are a longtime favorite of mine so thought I would share a picture of them. Not only were they so cute, they sang well too! Jim Morris did a great job as the M.C.Tom Noonan's heartfelt presentation and rendition brought the audience to their feet! Tom was so right when he marveled at how this Island comes together to support and care for each other. It felt good sharing the evening. (fyi:A candle light vigil will be held to honor the Sandy Hook community at 6:00 pm Wednesday at the Washington Island School.After the Show, we decided to take a drive to see some of the Christmas lights.

Manns Store and the REA can always be counted on to add a little spirit. I do like the small lighted trees perched high above Main Road!Dave's Garage has a nice display but I could only capture a part of it.The Danish Mill is not to be missed...just think of the goodies that are waiting inside! I saw Patty Nikolai the other day and she says the Mill will continue to be open through December 29 (except Sundays) and after a brief break will be open in Mid-January to try out a Thursday through Saturday schedule this Winter.
As Christmas approaches, decorations comtinue to be found and displayed.  The funny thing is I have one taste in Christmas decor and Lew has another style...more traditional...the worst part is his appreciation of "regular" sized colored lights. He's the one who pulls out my Grandmother's ceramic  tree...me? I'm more of a tinsel tree type - now if I could just find the lights...I'm thinking white lights.

Planning Ahead

Okay, this photo comes not from the Island but from Polonius Sheet Music. I thought it would be a nice way to announce Winterfest, a concert sponsored by the Washington Island Music Festival, will be held at Trinity Lutheran Church on Saturday December 29 starting at 5:30 pm. Music including Mozart, Bach, and seaonal favorites will be performed in the Trinity sanctuary. A buffet supper provided by volunteers of the Music Fest will follow in the Fellowship Hall. The public is asked to purchase their tickets at the door. $15 for ages 12 and above - $5 for ages 11 and under - If a ride is needed, call Joanne Jack (847-2453).

Take a breath...

hug/cherish those dear to you...

have a great week!

 

Books... Reading Matters

It started snowing yesterday...what better time to sit back - at least for a moment - and lose oneself in a good book.I do love books...I prefer the ones I can hold in my hands but do see good in ebooks and Kindles. Winter is a great time up here to snuggle in and catch up on a good read. We are lucky to have a place where writers come to write as well. The Island can a reflective place...usually seen through artist's or photographer's eye but writers come too and some even stay.
One of the Winter activities to which I look forward is Door County Reads. Events for DC Reads will run from January 21st through February 16th.  Further information on the events held throughout Door County can be found here.  As in past years, a discussion will be held on the Island. The choice for 2013 has been announced: The Beekeeper's Apprentice...The Friends of Door County Libraries are providing books again...some time around 1/2/13.  Copies can be obtained by contacting Marcia Carr at the Island Library. I believe she is keeping a list of those interested in having a copy. I understand this book has a double plus for me. It is a mystery and Sherlock Holmes figures prominently. Holmes is a favorite of mine. I have good memories of spending one winter reading what I hoped was all of Sir Arthur Conan Doyle's writings. Mysteries or Detective books are a nifty read of mine. Saw this recent Guide to Fictional Detectives on Abebooks. Fun to follow up and read a plethora from one author and the original cover art are fun to examine. Given that I found over 2200 copies of a wide range of titles for Sherlock Holmes alone, I think I could find a few more  "page turners"!
The Internet has broadened my search for interesting titles. The photo above as well as the illustration which starts this entry comes from Shakespeare & Company. It reminds me of my family's book shelves. I grew up in a home with lots of books...perhaps not as piled up as this photo but in a child's mind, it was close...still Mother loved to make regular trips to the library and I would go with her; her selection was eclectic. I remember Pearl Buck, Ilka Chase, and Adele Davis. There were many books set in far away places. Now, as I think about what looks/sounds good to me as the quiet season comes, I can understand why my mother liked to read about distant locations. It gives one's mind a break.

A good source to peruse for ideas is a link I found from the Sunday Book Review in The New York Times:  100 Notable Books of 2012 Always fun to have a new list of books! Being able to obtain this type of info through the Internet helps keep me connected and continue to enjoy my life on this Island. However, I do want to point out that The New York Times is available for purchase at Manns Store on Main Road as well on view in the Washington Island Library.  Lists...ideas...sources are  important at this moment as my Book Club meets soon to choose our monthly selections for 2013.I sometimes think the debate over book selection is better than reading those chosen.  Do you have a book to recommend?  I welcome suggestions. Book Club? Book Clubs?  Oh yes... actually there are several book groups on the Island at this point...all with a different focus and lively conversation.

So many good books...so little time...where to start? Hmmmmmm...

Planning Ahead:

Reservation Season is upon us! Ferry Reservations that is! Don't Forget: If you plan to come to the Island from December 21 on thru March, reservations are needed. The reservation logs are out and in use. Do call!

Home for the Holidays - coming once again. Altho this event is on the Peninsula side it is worth thinking about and planning ahead...usually open seating...so, yes. go early to get a good seat...but then every seat is a good one when these folks play!

Have a great week!

 

Getting Ready....

Just seems like yesterday...
... Lew was getting Mockingbird ready to go in for the season.  Now, the Boat is out of the water, the Cottage is asleep, for the time being, and......the Garage is the main event.  Getting the snow blower in place means a major decluttering.  This is an annual Winter prep happening...getting the garage to a state where two vehicles and a snow blower can be housed...a challenge at best!I want to decorate for the Holidays...but first one has to get outdoor things stowed for the Winter...and then come inside to undecorate/dedecorate (what is the word?) divest (?) so there is room for the Winter decorations...so a good cup of coffee comes in handy!Yes, I said Winter decorations...it could be a holdover from my teaching days that is, decorating by season...the Winter lasts so long, the days are so short, and the cold wears on a person so...I tend to turn to light reflecting, glistening items that can stay out til at least Valentine's Day. How do you manage to get through...decorating...the Winter...What works for you? Share your ideas in the comment section below!Best Wishes  toward keeping the Meaning of the Season in mind...

Upcoming Events in December:

3rd - Ferry Schedule moves to 4 trips a day!

3rd & 4th - Auditions for Island Players Winter Play, Pygmalion - School Commons - 7:00 pm

4th - Season of Lights @ Mosling Recreation Center - 6:30 pm

9th -  Bethel Builders Cookie Walk @ the church - 2:00 pm

14th - Christmas Bird Count on the Island

14th - Christmas at the TPAC - 7:30 pm

So, welcome to Winter - this is what all this preparation is about! Congratulations go out to the Island's Melody Walsh...another great photo...this time on the cover of this month's "Wisconsin Natural Resources" promoting that magazine's Great Lakes photo contest........her first cover photo! Melody took this photo on the East side of Rock Island State Park. She submitted this photo in 2010. The person in the photo is Erik Lucia President of the Friends of Rock Island State Park. 

The 2013 photo contest deadline is February 1, 2013. Consider entering! I will be happy to send on the details.

Have a great week!

Seasonal Shopping...with a local flair!

It all started when I saw a sign somewhere on Facebook...I think it came from Omaha actually.The season is upon us.... Let the shopping begin...and then I saw the poster for the Island Art and Craft Show...It was on Black Friday at the Rec Center with a great group of exhibitors...and...I missed it....family took me away from the Island. However, the time away gave me time to think...other folks are away and they want to prep for the Holidays too. What to do?Shopping with an Island or local touch is my suggestion... I know this nifty tree may be a bit too crafty for one's taste but I have to admit this little beauty brings back memories...my Grandmother had one...now I have this tree...so now the question is how does one make this current Season memorable? Make use of the Internet!  There are three people from the sale who have Etsy Shops!Laura Findlay Hagen here, has LFH Jewelry Designs. Note the Island charm above. It is available in three different metals and there are other lovely items to see...A longtime artisan, Laura is gearing up her design business after taking time for family. through this Etsy site. So much fun to ooh and aah when she posts on her LFH Facebook page! Heidi Brodersen here has Mavenwear. Her sewing/embroidery business is great for organizing whether it is for packing or purse... she also creates knitting needle cases. Mari Anderson here  an accomplished Yogi with many students on this Island and on her other Island (Crooked Island in the Bahamas) has Yogicards - original, fun loving, thought provoking sets for notes and (my thought) framing.As planning continues, one has to keep up one's strength and perhaps order a pie or whatever. I must recommend the cookies tho at Tom and Patty Nikolai's Danish Mill as I tasted them last year and am salivating just thinking about them available again this Christmas! Not sure they can do mailing but Tom has said ordering for Christmas is welcomed and he has offered to make "anything" ... his comment, not mine.Realizing this is a bit further a field but the cause is a good one and the Hardy does involve artists from the Island in their exhibits.  In fact there is at least one Island artist who has contributed to this event. It fits my goal to present memorable items while providing an opportunity to shop in a convenient way. Your donation will help the Hardy Gallery continue its mission to provide creativity and enrichment within the area.  Consider a visit to their silent auction closing at 5:00 pm on December 19!Here's a further reach/distance but it is also a worthy cause and food for thought for those of you unable to make a trip to Sturgeon Bay. The Friends Group for that town's library is sponsoring their 5th Annual Holiday Book Sale this Saturday, December 1st - 9 to 1- Library Basement ...specifically for the holiday season: special "coffee table" book section & art books, ...oldies but goodies...nonfiction...hot topics...Civil War...biographies. Come for the gifting...stock up for the Winter! So some of you reading this post are far away but this is an idea to help you think "out of the box"... and I just have a thing about books....more on that in the future.

So here is the sign that started it all. This post is just a start...an encouragement. Just because Small Business Saturday has come and gone doesn't mean this time of year has to be hectic...we can/should/will take a breath and think "meaningful".  Look around and see what you can find where you are based as well ...  me? Having touched base withartisans on the Island, I am off to order honey for my "mail" presents from Mad Urban Bees, a Madison small business. It's great...full disclosure: the proprietor, Nathan Clarke, is related to the Clarke side of my family. Check him out here.

Tis the Season...have fun getting ready and a great week in the process!

 

PS What have I missed? Yout thoughts? Share your ideas below!

 

Being Thankful...

Thanksgiving is one of my most favorite times of year. I like the thankful part...*Thankful for the sunsets and the Island where I am able to live...Thankful for the folks who have made our Cottage their home for a while.... I am so thankful for the chance to meet the people who have come to the Cottage. I am grateful as well for those visitors who have applied their expertise to make this place a better place... in so many ways! We buttoned up the Cottage in the last few days for the coming Winter. The Welcome Sign has been taken in - for now.**Thankful as well to those folks who have taken care of us, looked out for us here on the Island.... Emergency Services of Door County, Washington Island Station...

The amount ot time and effort these people contribute is to be appreciated and to be honored. Such special people...  Thankful for the Volunteers...This Island - as is often the case in many communities - can not manage without the many volunteers who contribute their time and their skills.Whether it is at the school, the archives, one of the museums, as a member of a Board or using a little "elbow grease" for some "grunt work"...
***This past week's Northern Lights show- this view is from Northport looking toward the Island - has helped me to remember how lucky I am to live here. Thank you all so very, very much!

So take a moment in the coming days to think thankful thoughts.  What would you/ will you add? Ideas? Add them in the Comment Section below...

Have a Happy Thanksgiving and a great week!

Photo Credits- *Many thanks Anna Gibson!  **from the Emergency Services Facebook page ***Many thanks Paula Hedeen!

Music...Music...Music

"In the middle of  every difficulty lies opportunity"  Albert Einstein

There's this great program that is happening at the School. Music in the School's, Donna Briesemeister has a multi-generational band going. With the contributions of instruments from Islanders Diane Kahlscheuer, Carol Amadio, and Barbara Greenfeldt, 10+ adults currently participate along with their school age peers and they are having lots of fun!There are folks playing trumpets, flutes, clarinets ... even a sax, a  trombone and a violin. An instrumental music program is taking hold. Through the Music Fest, a grant has been received from the Door County Community Fund to cover sheet music and director's time. They are meeting every Wednesday after school... which allows music students who have had entry level training to transition into making music with a group. I have heard there are other adults who are dusting off their instruments  and taking a few lessons in order to join the group up at the School. Students, no matter what age.....having lots of fun...making more than a joyful noise...They report that what I will call "lip power" is taking a while to get in shape and lung power is in development.  It's a game and gutsy group and their music  can't help but bring a smile to listeners and participants alike!The toe tapping... er... rythym is coming along... but there is something missing from the picture...instruments...more instruments! In order to encourage more student participation - more instruments are needed. Joanne Jack did a wonderful article in the Observer several weeks ago and in it she put out a call to all to check likely spots......So as the Holidays approach and decorations are retrieved from attics, hall closets, or other hiding places keep an eye open for an instrument case that might be hiding. Donna  says whatever is discovered is worth contacting her at 920-847-2330.  Replies are welcome below in the comment section or emails can be sent to me. My hope is to get the word out through this post to another set of readers who might like to contribute or lend an instrument or two. Other ideas or resources are welcome. So while there may be difficulties in getting a program started, there are also opportunities for music lovers out there - to clear out some space and share the cherished experience of making music with a new student. Another Musical Note! Julian returns to the Trueblood Performing Arts Center this coming Saturday!One more thing...Okay, so it isn't quite music oriented but it is worth planning ahead and marking your calendar for the Local Island Art and Craft Sale coming on Friday, November 23. There might be a CD or two available in staying with my music theme. I can only imagine some of the lovely things Island artists will have on display for your shopping pleasure.

Have a great week!

Respect the Weather gods ....Part 2

Back in August, I wrote about the weather gods. We respect the weather up here. This past week was another amazing example as the Island coped with gale force winds, the residue of Hurricane Sandy. Given that this "perfect storm" was created by a combination of weather events - a hurricane wrapped up in the wind gusts of a giant nor'easter increased by a stronger than expected jet stream plus  a higher than normal high tide topped off with a surge over 9 feet - it made sense that our weather here would be effected as well. The sunset on Halloween gave little clue of the wind gusts that had hit the Island the day before. There was warning and time to prepare but the question still remained. Would the ferry run on Tuesday?It sure did... This is a view of the breakwater as I disembarked from the 7:00 am boat at Northport on Tuesday. I felt quite secure with this capable crew.  I hasten to add that the decision to board the ferry in challenging weather is up to the individual.Just prior to leaving on the last boat of the day at 3:00 pm.At the breakwater on the last boat, Tuesday, October 30...to me, the challenge of entering and exiting the Northport breakwater is a big part of the decision to maintain the schedule or to shut down for the day. Sometimes the call is to cease operation; sometimes to continue on... I respect their decision either way.

*They sure do come together and help out on this Island; am thinking of the fire at Gibson's West Harbor Resort just a year ago yesterday. The Gibson family is to be honored. Their positive nature in the face of such adversity shows people can work through a crisis. Our Island community is an example of what can be done when friends, neighbors, and interested folks rise to the occasion and lend a hand. **While on the Peninsula, I did check the weather along the shoreline. On my way. I saw this bench near the water in Fish Creek.It made me remember Veteran's Day is coming. The community service will be held at the Trueblood Performing Arts Center (TPAC) on Monday, November 12 at 10:30 am. As is tradition, the program will be presented by the Island Chapter of the American Legion and Washington Island students plan to attend.... Oh... Pastor Phil Green often takes part in the music for this event. (He is quite a Horn player!) I hope he does so this time. It would be a time we can also say good bye and thank you to him as he and his wife, Sandy, leave soon for their new church in Kansas.I feel fortunate to live on this Island with people who are so willing to "step up"... As people effected by Hurricane Sandy cope, I hope the road to recovery can create a similar strength and appreciation of Life. 

Have a great week.

 Thanks to *Anna Gibson and ** Washington Island Observer for the use of their photos in this post.

In Pursuit of Pumpkins...

 So many pumpkins out there....so little time...

I was off Island this week and found many ... both here and there.Exotic or traditional...have you found a pumpkin or two?

I am not a fan of the ghoulish side of this time of year but I am a fan of Autumn accents. It has been fun noticing pumpkins whether in a garden....along the road ... seems the Lions have disappeared from the Lyons Isle Vineyards gateposts.But then, if one looks hard enough...*

...the colors of Halloween can be seen in Nature itself.I have "borrowed" this one from Martha Stewart as it reminds me of the creative pumpkin display we often see if we visit the Witches and Their Cauldron on Main Road on Halloween.  There are several families who stage "trick or treat" displays in various parts of the Island. The carved pumpkins on Main Road are a sight to be appreciated by all ages.Then there are things which remind me of a Jack O'Lantern and aren't a pumpkin at all.**Sometimes it is just the colors of Halloween that are a commonality. Heidi Gilbertson shared this last week. The words do ring true. Not sure why I picked up this idea of a blog but I like what I am doing - sharing Island info, honoring Island people and traditions......as well as keeping my brain cells firing fiercely!Reminder: Time Change! I live with a clock-fancier and when I walked by him working on his latest project this past weekend - a Waterbury Cottage Clock - it made me check on when to turn our clocks back. Daylight Saving Time ends here this coming Sunday, November 4 at 2:00 am. I will miss the hour of sunlight but then it has been ebbing away gradually for some time now.Wherever you are, have a great week and a Happy Halloween!

* I know I took a little poetic license here as butterflies are few and far between but the colors are worth a look.  I thank the Art & Nature Center for the use of this photo.

**Ginni Glass Photo

 

A Chill in the Air... & a Change or Two


Greetings Folks! The photo here was captured by Steve Waldron, the Naturalist at the Art and Nature Center this summer. Steve has returned to his "regular" job as a teacher at the Island school. The Center has closed and I do miss Steve's posts on the ANC Facebook page. So it was really good to come across this photo the other day. Thanks for letting me share, Steve. I know some of your other followers will enjoy this too! Although the weather is changing, Nature continues to surprize us with some beautiful scenery!

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 Driving along this week I noticed two recently placed signs identifying Nature Preserves on the Island -one on Town Line Road just west of the Stavkirke and one on Lobdell Point Road just up from the ferry dock.

 Time for a Hike?  Nice to see such lovely markers denoting Door County Land Trust sites.

 

 

 Things Water Oriented... The three days or so of rain this past week were sorely needed. The land was nourished as we get ready for the Winter months but the shoreline continues to suffer. It was interesting to read a recent news article in the Chicago Tribune on near record lows for Lake Michigan water levels. It echoes the issues we face here on the Island. The same body of water which touches Chicago's shores meets our land up here. The near record low report by the US Army Corps of Engineers has encouraged Islanders and businesses on to started thinking ahead. These photos taken at Jackson Harbor and the State Dock speaks to the issue. Dick Purinton in his blog Ferry Cabin News writes about how ferry travel may be effected as we approach the Winter months, a time when I typically note lower water levels. In mind of that, the Potato Dock is being prepared in case the ferries are unable to land at their usual location.

Ferry Schedule Changes That reminds me: starting today the ferry schedule has changed to a six boat a day schedule with runs roughly every other hour from 7:00 am to 5:00 pm. Consult the ferry schedule for specific times. This also means that mail that needs to leave the Island has to be at the Post Office by 7:45 am to make the mail run on the 8:00 am ferry.                  One Last Sale... or Two...  AKA Cleaning out to Settle in - Part 2 or is it 3?

Have used Books, Videos, or DVD’s to share?Please consider donating them to the Art and Nature Center to sell to raise money to support the ANC budget. Bring them to the ANC on Friday, Oct. 26, from 2-4 pm or call Laura Waldron 7-2657 or Barb O’Connell 7-2436 for pickup. Then come and shop: Saturday morning from 9am-Noon! Stock for fall and winter reading! Check out the works of the late artist Janet May that will be for sale.Island Style News - Another Island Business' season is coming to a close. Anna Gibson is saying "Thanks" for a great 2nd year with a nifty Sale at her shop just up from the Ferry Dock @ Hansen's BP Station. She plans to be open from Friday 10/26 thru the last day of October. For specific hours do check her sign near the front door. Stop on by!

 Don't Forget! Community Halloween Party/Silent Auction - this coming Friday, 10/26 @ Karly's Hall- For the Party: Do note children Preschool age or younger are invited for 4:30 - 5:30 pm. All other ages are welcome from %:30 through 7:00 pm. The Silent Auction closes @ 7:30 pm. This event continues to be a major fundraiser for the Washington Island Preschool. Much time and organization not to mention lots of lifting and toting goes into the evening. We have a class of eight students this year. Patricia Hewitt is their teacher. Drop in to join in the fun at the Party upstairs. Then come downstairs to the Cellar to see what treasures are available at the Silent Auction. Thanks to the many,many Island retailers, Preschool fans and merchants on the Peninsula side who donate their goodies.The leaves up in the trees are fewer but worth a look! Have a great week!

It's in the Details...

The last couple of weeks have been a blur ...

a wonderful blur...but a blur...

Fall colors continue...yes, it has been windy...

amazing how some leaves... & color! remain ...

people visit ... events are observed.

Due to that blur, I find I have missed some of the delicate pieces - the details - that make these days significant. Whether it might be observing the blacksmith devoted to his task at the Farm Museum...*

Observing a tiny piece of Nature.
These little things are important. In a way, they may help one keep perspective.

 

Some little things can be silly.

Who knew there is/was a Gnome in the bell tower at the Art & Nature Center... catching a butterfly no less? I guess I must have kept my nose to the ground (all Summer).  Saw this little one as I was out checking out the Fall colors. 

  Sometimes details are not so little...


Friday was a beautiful day. Since one never knows how many days like this are left, we did what any boater would do and took off for a ride. At about 3 pm, we saw the McMullen & Pitz derrick barge assisted by the tug William C. Selvick coming into the channel at Detroit Harbor. It could be it is here to replace the Coast Guard dock. 

Details - Housekeeping category - Time to clean out your closets and donate to the community clothing sale and clothing drive. In the words of Gloria Small (in a release to the Observer), "We accept clean usable clothing, shoes, boots, costumes, jewelry, and hats." Drop-offs (@ the Trinity Social Hall) will begin on Sunday, October 21. Questions? Call Gloria @ 847-2353. Volunteers are needed to sort, sell, and pack up the leftovers for donation off-Island. Proceeds fund youth activities such as the Wednesday High School Breakfasts and the Annual Habitat for Humanity work trip in June. The sale runs from Thursday, October 25 through Saturday, October 27. 

Details - Shopping! Wednesday October 17

 A book set on Rock & Washington Island, American Girl Stories, and a Sale...  Islandtime Books and More:  9:30 am - 1:00 pm The shop celebrates the last day of the 2012 season with a guest appearance by author Kathleen Ernst whose latest mystery is set on Rock Island - In addition, Ernst has written numerous American Girls books the latest being the Caroline series. Open daily up to and including the 17  with the end season sale continuing. (Ernst will be making an appearance Tuesday evening at Women's Club to be held this month at Findlay's Holiday Inn.)

Details - Shopping - Part 2 (Planning Ahead Dept.)

The Christmas Shopping continues at the Silent Auction. It is a hidden gem of opportunity! Mark your calendars and plan to attend. Sponsored by Washington Island Preschool.

  

Details - Movie Dates @ the TPAC

October 10/20 The Avengers

October 10/27 The Artist

Details can be tiny or large, camoflaged or quite visible. 

Wherever you are, check out the "details" around you, and have a great week!

 * blacksmith photo by V. Glass

**"found nail" photo by P. DeVos

A Windy...Wavy...Weekend!

 

 Weekends like this start out beautifully...folks make plans...


*They want to see that Harvest Moon.

 Check out the Fall colors. Take part in some of the events that make this time of year on the Island so special.

**Alas, Mother Nature had another thought. On Friday, the weather took a sudden shift and waves began to build as the afternoon turned to evening...

Would the ferries continue? The weather reports called for 45+ mph gale-force gusts.

***The answer to all of the above seems (to me) to be Yes! To the credit of experienced pilots the ferry schedule was maintained, using the shelter of Plum Island as a shield. Friends, family (even family pets) and Island travelers both new and experienced braved the tumult of the winds out of the West, garnering free car washes as their reward!

***As Saturday dawned, wind weary travelers had earned the right to share their stories and hear similar tales from Island residents as they shopped, ate, and explored the sights. It seems a certain "merit badge" is earned for trips like this and links/connections are made with folks that might not have happened were it not for this adventure ride. Sales were made - perhaps one more Winter coat  or another sweatshirt was purchased.

Walks, talks, and more than a photo or two were taken to cement this weekend in our minds.

Memories were made in these last few days. Whether we hold them in a box, in our hearts, or on a photo chip, the trip over and back will be a strong one this year!

The Fall brings more happenings but that is for next week's post.  

Wherever you are, have a great week!

Photo Credits: * Chris Walker, **Ginni Glass, ***Pam De Vos    Many Thanks!

Food, Spirits, and Fall

A Taste of Autumn*
As Fall moves along I find my tastes tending toward warm gooey, yet seasonal things. Last week, a friend reminded me about it being Grilled Cheese Sandwich weather. Have been cruising Pinterest and by gosh, I am not alone! 
Tastespotting which bills itself as a community driven visual potluck - what an appropriate resource for our area! -  had this luscious Green Goddess Grilled Cheese.
Start with a pesto type spread using what is left in the garden -
parsley, basil, chives, kale, - whatever
and then use a melty cheese like mozarella with layers of spinach leaves and avocado.
Salivating yet?
 
                         Let's not stop there...  
when one thinks (seasonal foodwise) of the Island, Door County and cool, crisp weather one thought that comes to mind is Apples - there are many types along the roads for sale right now.
So what about a Carmelized Apple Grilled Cheese ? Click the title for the actual recipe but just know it could be good with cheddar cheese or Gouda
 and there is cinnamon and brown sugar involved. This version comes all the way from a Boston site - I guess they like apples there, too!
Becoming familiar with Pinterest is a new adventure for me and I must say it is fun! The possibilities for grilled cheese are endless ... just think about it and if you are on the Island and the store has closed, open the refrig and check the cupboard and see what is on hand. Start to construct your version. Healthy? Not so?  What will your creation be? 
Now my husband, Lew, would think these ideas are a travesty.  The only option in this category for him would be traditional grilled cheese (which he makes really well!) served with that well known tomato soup with which we all grew up. Come to think of it, this continues to be a great option for the little ones as well as the big ones in the family.
                   
Apples? ...... Did I say Apples?      
That reminds me .... I know the Farm Museum publicizes their Saturday/Sunday October 6/7 event as a Cider Pressing Party but the best part (as far as I am concerned) are the taffy apples. I can make a whole meal out of one and we get to dip our own - with or without nuts, you choose. Linda Taylor, the Apple Lady in charge, tells me she has over 800 apples ready and about 130 pounds of caramel on hand for the two day event. The line can be long but it will be worth the wait. The party runs from 10:00 am to 4:00 pm.
A visit to a Farm of yesteryear with taffy apples, children's games, cider pressing, farm animals, and more.
Save time in your weekend to be there!
"A Grain of Truth" - Washington Island Makes ForbesLife Magazine.
I stopped in to Paint Box Gallery in Ephraim last Thursday to get two watercolors reframed and in passing, Carol Gresko, the proprietor, mentioned seeing an article which highlighted Death's Door Spirits' Brian Ellison and the company's White Whiskey in the September 24 issue of ForbesLife. The article can be accessed on that magazine's website although I didn't see the accompanying photo - and it's a nice one. 
Not sure what your tastebuds are favoring right now but I hope you take advantage of what the season has to offer.
Have a great week!
PS Have you bought your tickets for the Washington Island Fire Department Benefit? Great prizes for a good cause.
The WIFD Open House is set for Saturday, October 6 from 10:00 am to 2:00 pm.
PPS * Shoreline photo by Pam DeVos.

It's Starting!

Shhhhh ....   Colors are coming...                  
                                           ... cool, crisp evenings.
  .
Deep blue skies...
                                      ...with powerful clouds.
Time for bonfires* ...
                                                ... pumpkins too!
 Amazing Autumn...
                                                     ... come and see!*
   Planning Ahead----
                                            ---Saturday, 10/6 & 10/14
 
 - As we approach the time to come indoors, close down seasonal homes, or make way for winter gear, it means de-cluttering. One way the Island is helping is by providing these two days to drop off some debris we find in our basements, sheds, and garages. Check out the boxholder above.
Wherever you are, take time to enjoy and have a great week!
*Thanks to Island visitors Pam DeVos & Ginni Glass for these Autumn tinged photographs.