One Year: Summer Thoughts & Thank You's

 Summer Time... and the living may or may not be easy...I am here to say it is possible to enjoy the Summer Season. (West Harbor @ the Resort  Anna Gibson Photo)Take a drive...never know what might be along the way. The other day, I found baby Lavendar plants available at a roadside stand ... on Michigan Road.Don't forget Baseball Games at the Field on Main Road.
Check out what Mother Nature has to offer... the Columbine is/are lovely.

Susan Ulm has captured a Poppy for your gazing pleasure...take a look...take a breath.

One Year!

Part of the reason I started this blog "adventure" was to keep the synapses firing and I am pleased to say that is happening! A great way to improve the Blog has been to hear from readers...thanks for all the kind words, encouragement, and constructive criticism.*I also like to help  folks keep up with Island happenings... or merely enjoy a bit of contemplation. Years ago, I found the Island held restorative powers for me...since then, I have read studies on how being out in Nature truly does refresh individuals. Hmmm...

Pace yourself...I write that phrase as much for me as it may be for you. As Summer starts to heat up, I plan to utilize an "express" version similar to last year at this time...  the announcements will help people plan ahead to save a date, purchase a ticket, or plan a quick trip! 

This Week:

Market @ the Historic Island Dairy - Thursday 6/27 AND Saturday 6/29! - 11 to 4

Planning Ahead

The Ferry will be changing to its Summer runs this Saturday, June 29 with ferries arriving every 30 minutes for the most part. For further info on times see their website.

*Special Night Ferry Trips scheduled for July 3:

 To Island: 7:45 PM, 8:15 PM, 9:15 PM, 10:30 PM
From Island: 7 PM, 7:30 PM, 8:30 PM, 9:45 PM
(same as full Friday Night Trip schedule)

 

The Mirror Brass Quartet will perform Tuesday, July 2nd at 7 PM for the free TPAC “On the Green” Concert. “Music with Friends” will include rousing hunting horn fanfares, lyrical songs, and toe tapping marches. The program is appropriate for families, including children of all ages. All this plus Island resident/former CSO hornist Norm Schweikert (!) will be joining as a guest artist for the evening!

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And of course...the Fireworks @ the Baseball Field on the 4th of July! (Love those late ferry runs!)

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Have a great week!

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*Ginni Glass Photos

June - a time for special events

June is a time for Island celebrations...ferries are christened..buildings are opened...people are honored. As this post falls into place, I realize that the happenings this week also highlight members of the Sunset Resort "Family" although their contributions happened/ are happening beyond the Resort throughout the Island. It is just an example of the connections people have in a small town surrounded by water.Friday Night Ferries are starting to fill up... Fridays on the Island are starting to fill up too! 

The Annual Grilled Whitefish Dinner! This Friday, the 21st...Jay Hagen started this event in the mid 90's and for the past 15 years it has been held in his memory.It's a major fundraiser for the Jackson Harbor Maritime Museum...I sent Lew up to Jackson Harbor to take a photo...or two...He found Jewel Lee and Chuck Grandy painting the fish tug known as the Alex C when her Dad, Rodger Hagen used it to fish these waters. Serving starts at 5:00pm and continues until there is/are no fish left...and that does happen

The Rec turns 25

This photo was taken about the time the Mosling Recreation Center opened; seated front & center: Maxine Engstrom... with her immediate family. That really serious looking guy on the left is her son-in-law, Tim Brown. Tim was the first Manager of "The Rec", a title he coined. Maybe that's why he looked so serious...it was quite a bit of responsibility...working to build the place and getting it going! 

Time does fly and "The Rec" has turned 25...hard to fathom...several other managers have helped to make this place what it is today. In honor of the occasion, there will be another (The opening was fun, too!) celebration this Saturday, June 22 at the Historic Island Dairy - dinner, silent auction, et al. Manager Katie McGrane would love to save a seat for you. Call the Rec for more info!Oh! That picture also shows Janet and Lee Engstrom who continue to welcome guests at Sunset Resort. Lee has volunteered at that Grilled Whitefish Dinner I spoke of earlier at the Maritime Museum since it began. June is a time when Islanders celebrate the Island. It is also a fun time to visit...to appreciate the honors, history, the careful evolution of this place.

Have a great week!

PS  Thanks to Amy Brown Crouse for furnishing the Engstrom/Brown photo. She's that sweet young thing seated next to Grandmother Maxine.

Thinking Art...and Nature too!

Oh boy! The opening is coming!Preparations are underway.
Season opening reception with featured artist Pat Wright and her show, "Images and Paintings of Everyday Life on the Island" Friday, June 14, 7:30pm. Here...Keeper

The Art and Nature Center has a full schedule of experiences for children...Nice to see so many taking advantage of these offerings. Here's a Watercolor by Summer Visitor Lily West. Her mom reports she completed this at home over the Winter...Lily says it is her "mind's view" of the Island.Given a past sunset  captured by Mom, Kim West, I would say Lily has some good memories...Yes, those fun art activities remind me of other times...I bet a lot of us could/can do this...but I digress...
I was trying to merely hint at Pat's work as the featured artist...however, her Butterfly nicely evokes the blending of both the Art and the Nature side of this unique organization.

Island teacher Steve Waldron will be returning as naturalist. 

Things are changing on the Nature side of the ANC.Through the generosity of Virginia Thomas, new exhibits with a tech edge will debut.....here's a photo posted by Steve last year on the ANC Facebook page...might want to "Like" that page. Steve is exploring the idea of using minicams this summer...among other things.

 I do think the Snakes will still be around as well as Plant Identification...whether by traditional books or computer searches ... thanks to Director Laura's help, I now know we have Starry False Solomon Seal blooming currently.

Coming SoonPosting ahead a bit but this is worth planning an Island visit! Friday, June 21...Birds of Chicago will be in concert at the TPAC.

Follow Up
FYI - Have been following the progress  over the last few weeks and can now report the new checkout system at Mann's Store is up and running.

Have a great week!

Graduation: endings? beginnings!

The end of the school year means a graduation is coming.Here they are ... all ten of them. There are three events that I can think of in their honor this week.
Baccalaureate on Wednesday at Bethel Church, Awards and Scholarship Program on Thursday at the TPAC, and Graduation on Friday at the Community Center... Everyone is invited.

Excelsior*... "Island Fireworks 2012"... Seems to fit here.

I like this quote...  it also works with "she" and "her". Congratulations to all of you!

Thanks to Nathaniel Perry for allowing me to share these Senior Class photos.

 Returning:

Yoga with Mari Anderson will continue at the Historic Island Dairy beginning this Wednesday...various levels so contact her for further info at 2579...a truly wonderful experience!More flowers - now available at Hansen's ......lilacs are out.So are lily of the valley.

 Dandelions may not exactly be flowers but I do like the way they looked this week at Lyonsisle.

To the Class of 2013:

Have a great week!

* Onward and upward!

Dorothy & the Other Woman

It has been an interesting week...
 Most of you who read these Posts or set foot on the Island, know Dorothy. 

Dorothy is Lew's 1930 Ford Truck...she has her following.However, as Summer starts to head this way...Dorothy has had to contend with a little competition...that would be Mockingbird aka the "Other Woman".

Funny thing, as Lew prepared to bring in Mockingbird for her "commissioning"...Dorothy wouldn't start.

She just would not budge... finally, serious measures were applied. (What would we do without our tractor?)

When I opened the garage next morning it seemed that Mockingbird  was indeed entrenched in prime territory...poor Dorothy (sigh). 

Openings...

It's indeed Memorial Day weekend...restaurants & other Island businesses  have opened &/or moved to full time schedules! Danish Mill is on a 7 day schedule...Shipyard's Sailor's Pub opened its doors on Thursday...Karly's Cellar Restaurant opened Friday...KK's restaurant is also an active place.Down the road, the Red Cup is open into the afternoon...Kathleen has opened her Island Time Books Shop - it's her 10th season! The Island Bread Co. sign is up ...watch for the "Fresh Bread Today " announcement board by the road!New this year in this area...

Fragrant Isle's Lavender Cart serving several types of gelato and other culinary treats.

Upcoming...

Van Gogh is coming to the TPAC this coming Friday. Here's one of his paintings.  Although it may not be a "known" work, A Girl in White in the Woods, reminds me of the Island.  (Oil on canvas 1882, Kroller-Muller Museum, Netherlands)

A Tribute to America!On Tuesday, June 4, there is a 2:00pm & 6:30pm performance scheduled @ the TPAC - Come see King George, Daniel Boone, Andrew Jackson, President Lincoln, and even the Statue of Liberty. America's Story is presented by the Third through the Sixth Grade and as the photo above indicates, they want YOU to attend! Looks like a lot of fun! (Photo - Corey Van Der Weele)

Have a great week!

Preparations ....tis the Season!

Aaahhh....
 

...a warm up has been noted this past week here on the Island. This green I am seeing is so special...brighter...it's a happy color. The earthy smells aren't bad either. Listen to the telephone ring...It's been fun... things are becoming more active...weeks at the Cottage are starting to fill...nature is starting to wake up too.

Trillium seem to populate the Island even more this year. Other flowers are starting to make themselves known.The Cottage Spring Cleaning took up most of this past week....tis the Season!A few new things are in place as well...have listened to suggestions and added a blender - okay, it's not a juicer but smoothies are a definite possibility. A couple of new outlets have been added to the Cottage guest room as well. In this age of personal electronic devices, the outlet to the left of the mirror is our way of providing a "charging station" albeit Island style! Nice to have a new lamp too!

Anticipation is starting to build... my long term memory is kicking in. This quote goes out to all Teachers (yes, with a capital "T"!) as they buckle down...for the final days of the school year.Summer is coming!

Coming Up...Auditions for the Summer Island Players presentation are Monday & Tuesday of this week - 7:00 pm at the School Commons - Questions? Call Howard Scott at 2453.

Looking like Memorial Day Weekend means Rummage Sales ... Great places to drop off your unwanted things...then see what treasures you can find!

From the Art & Nature Center!It’s time to sort media collections.  Bring cast offs to The Art and Nature Center on Friday afternoon, May 24, from 1:00 to 4:00 PM. Then stay and shop, or come back on Saturday morning, May 25, from 9:00 until noon and shop our total collection of donated items... a great fund-raiser for the ANC! Questions? Need help to get items to the ANC? call Barb O’Connell, 847-2436 or Laura Waldron, 847-2657.

The "Washington DC Kids" have a rummage sale set from 9 to 2, Saturday the 25th at the Community Center Gym AND their second car wash. (They made over $500 at the first one! Not bad but the goal, given the numbers of students is $10,000 for the 2014 trip.) ...the high schoolers may be running a Brat Sale there as well. It sounds like one-stop shopping!

The Island Memorial Tribute to honor those who have died while in military service will be held Monday morning the 27th. It is a wonderful tradition.

Have a great week!

Think canoe,kayak & preparedness!

As I look forward to warming up, I am reminded of earlier times when the water in Figenschau Bay was a little deeper as in the photo above. Canoeing & Kayaking will take center stage next month, June 14, 15, 16. The Washington Island Canoe & Kayak Event has been going on since 2009 (at least) and each year it seems new events are added.There's a Circumnavigation/Marathon Race, Harbor Races, a Guided Eco-Tour as well as expeditions to either Rock Island or across Death's Door. A Sea Kayak Symposium at several experience levels is scheduled. This is just a sampling of activities. Do go to Washington Island Canoe & Kayak Event for further information. (Photo - Susan Ulm)

Seem's right to share a vision from Photographer Anna Gibson since...her Island Style Shop is ...
 back...when I was taking a sneak peek last week, I noticed Anna had a bunch of Birds of Chicago CDs....reminds me this wonderful group will be in concert at the TPAC on Friday,  June 21... Newly arrived, a selection of wooden creations reworked this Winter as well as paintings by Island artist Cathy Meader. Island Style is open every day except Thursdays for now - 10 to 2.

We were off Island this past week and as we left, I noticed new activity at the Ferry Dock. Take a close look...next to the Eyrarbakki...it's the Karfi...getting ready...schedule says she will start running on the 24th.On the way back, I saw a sign at the Northport ticket booth. Ship's Wheel at Kap's has opened...nice!Then, as we land on Sunday, I see the Cherry Train waiting at the dock! Lots going on!There is still time to make plans for the Music Fest Benefit on May 26 which is evolving a bit this year - Call Joanne Jack @ 2453. 

Another lovely from Island resident, Susan Ulm. She calls it "3 Blades & 4 Blackbirds" ...reminds me of a 1st grade Math problem! Seems to fit as Schools everywhere are coming to a close.

This Week:

•Don't forget the Band Concert @ the TPAC this Wednesday -  2:30 pm! Tom Noonan will be conducting!

•Police & Fire et al Training Event - Thursday, 7:00pm - behind the school (by the soccer field parking lot).  A joint training event which will have Lake View Road between Main Road and Airport Road closed between 5pm and 9pm. The public is encouraged to come watch, however viewer discretion is advised…Please park in the Community Center Lot.

•Here, on the Island! Members will work with our students in the morning and there will be a reading from the Company's upcoming season for the Community @ 6:30pm TPAC - 5/17.

•Also this Friday - The Islanders may have had their 1st game cancelled but the Little Leaguers Islanders II are set for their 1st game to be played at Bailey's Harbor @ 6:00pm. The "Big Guys" Islanders Team 1st Game will now be here on the Island against Institute this Sunday the 19th.

•  Lincoln at the TPAC ... this Sunday the 19th...check the TPAC notice at Mann's Store or the "Marquee" @ the TPAC for showings!  

 Have a great week! 

It must be May!

It must be May!  Some bright, sunshiny weather has arrived...Love what I am seeing...this blue is so refreshing...when I found that this flower is called Siberian Squill (Scilla siberica), couldn't resist using it...must be hardy. Siberia fits for this Spring. I like to use this space to help folks be aware of what is happening here and what events are on the horizon, but I should have moved faster on the Door County Lighthouse Festival, June 7 to 9. To tease and tempt, here's a "vintage view" from Rock Island. As I double checked with the Door County Maritime Museum, I found that several events are already filled...however, there are at least 14 tours happening around Door County.This weekend gives visitors access to places that aren’t typically open to the public, including Chambers Island, Plum Island, Sherwood Point and the Sturgeon Bay Ship Canal Lighthouses. (I took the photo above at the Life Saving Station on Plum Island.)

Re the Plum Island Tour... once again one event - 4 trips - includes an exclusive stop-over and guided tour of Plum Island hosted by the Friends of Plum & Pilot Islands.  The 9 am Saturday 6/8 trip is sold out and as I write this, only 1 ticket remains on the Saturday 12 Noon tour... On Sunday, 4 places remain on the 9 am run and 5 places remain on the 12 Noon trip! These Plum Island Tours will leave from the Shoreline Charter Dock in Gills Rock. Contact Door County Maritime Museum for tickets!Pottawatomie Lighthouse on Rock Island - Wisconsin’s oldest - will be available through passage on the Karfi at the State Dock ie Rock Island Ferry Landing here on the Island - four round trips are on the Schedule. The Shoreline Cruise w/ Rock Island stopover on Friday the 7th is sold out although their Death's Door Cruises are available for water views throughout the weekend. In addition, on Saturday there is a six hour cruise out of Gill's Rock on the Island Clipper available traveling across Death’s Door and into Michigan waters.  The tour will pass Poverty and St. Martin islands with a stop at Rock Island for a mile-long hike to the Lighthouse and will cruise past the Plum Island lights and the Pilot Island Lighthouse.  For further information on the events and tours for the Lighthouse Festival go to Door County Maritime Museum!

More Flowers...

More Color! Jerry's Flowers has opened for the season in Sister Bay...I know it is off Island but the color is so revitalizing! Joy has a Frequent Buyer Program. Ask about it if you stop in as she has established the program as a "thank you" to her customers.Besides, I couldn't resist these little guys!A final thought..."If we had no Winter, the spring would not be so pleasant; If we did not sometimes taste the adversity, prosperity would not be so welcome." Anne Bradstreet, poet

Coming Up

Our Community Band will be performing for the School student body - Wednesday, May 15 @ 2:30pm.

The band members have opened the Concert to the public. This multi-generational group  is having a lot of fun.

From Director Donna Briesemeister, "We began the second week of January, 2012. We met in the school commons.  There were about 15 people for the first session.  We have around 18 regulars now….."

Come and hear them!

Have a great week!

Birding 101

Birds... I can hear them now when I wake up.

Saturday, somewhat warmer, started at the TPAC...with the clearing out or waking up of the gardens.
Longtime TPAC Garden supporter Jerry Landwehr came...everytime I help I learn something new from this man.What really told me Jerry had experience was his "kneeler"... photo doesn't do it justice!Lots of folks came and it made the task easier ...and fun. 

Melody Walsh came by. Melody has a wealth of knowledge re birds and she wanted us to see a kettle of migrating Broad-winged Hawks.  Birding is new to me and I had trouble counting them...hundreds I would guess, letting  the air currents help them travel.
 .

It will be interesting to see what birds appear this year. Last year, Melody photographed this Barn Swallow at Kap's Marina. (That was where she first sighted the Broad-winged Hawks on Saturday.)She found an Indigo Bunting... last year on Rock Island... and the Canada Warbler   stayed around all Summer.

Migration is indeed apparent and that is part of the reason the Island wil be the base for the 7th Door Islands Bird Festival, May 31st to June 2nd. As I started to study up on this pastime to publicize the event I found this resource on  Migration Info   ... it has timely information on the topic.

Since this year has been slower to warm up, there is a good chance  different migrating birds will be seen than last year. Mel found this White-throated Sparrow at her feeder this past week.
Also observed ... a Great Horned Owl...no telling what birds will be visiting...a complete list of activities can be found on the website. I do know that Melody will be leading a walk on Rock Island Sunday morning, June 1st.In this past year, Yellow-billed cuckoo were observed on the Islands of Rock, Plum, and Washington. Throughout the season over 50 were counted. I love the polka dot tail...Mother Nature is amazing.
For more information, check out the Bird Fest Site. 

Oh, ... I might add the Cottage will be open for the Season by then and that weekend is currently available!

 

Coming Up:

Skyfall

@ the TPAC 

Sunday, May 5

Show Times: 11:00, 2:00, 5:00 & 8:00

Have a great week!

It's Earth Day...Thinking About the Three R's

Happy Earth Day!We are so lucky to live on the Island...thinking green is in some ways is a "no brainer". Wisconsin has a place in this event. Gaylord Nelson, former Governor and Senator, helped to organize the very first Earth Day in April of 1970. The sign above takes on new meaning when one lives on an Island. Meaning ... disposing of "things" in general can be a challenge. It's not easy to find a place...thought and sometimes creativity is needed. 

Stressing the positive, in some ways, "recycling" can become memorable. A lovely teacup is a nice way to enjoy some green and raise a few cuttings. I remember when I found this paper towel holder at Marilyn Domer's estate sale. We were building a home on the Island at that time and I needed one. Talk about a good fit.The tea towel and tiny glass were hers as well. Feels good to have a bit of this wonderful woman as a part of my home. Marilyn was special.

While on this "green" train of thought... A couple of weeks ago I was rummaging around the garage and came upon a pot hastily brought in at the end of the season. I thought it was cleaned out but I guess it wasn't. Nearly translucent spikes were struggling upward, so ugly I didn't think to take a photo...merely dropped the pot off on the porch. When I checked a day or two later, I was surprised how a few hostas could seem so refreshing!Saving and using again was a way of life growing up. I remember a cupboard which held a growing collection of empty Mason jars. My Mother and Grandmothers would reuse them every year to can vegetables or make preserves.There is nothing like a bit of bright fruit flavor to bring back Summertime thoughts, especially when there is a layer of snow on the ground!  Lots of folks here use and reuse glass jars etc. to hold wonderful maple syrup, home relishes... yes, jams & jellies too! Some very talented people continue to keep these traditions alive.

Had a thought of another group that helps find places for good things...sort of... more along the lines of adopt rather than buy... am thinking of the Door County Humane Society. Located in Sturgeon Bay, they help cuddly critters as well as those who love pets all the way to Washington Island. Meet Hanna, a truly wonderful 5 year old chocolate lab mix. She is bright, likes children, frisbees and car rides. 
Hanna's former owner travels on Great Lakes freighters. He wrote a beautiful ode to his girl, describing how careful she is around household items, how she will touch your hand when she needs to go out, and how beautiful his life has been with her as of part of it. Well, on Saturday Hanna found her forever home when she was placed with a loving family on the Island...She and her folks were on the afternoon ferry. Welcome to the Island, Hanna! * 

So here's a last look at those lustrous green hostas...a week later. These little things do renew my patience for Spring's arrival... Happy Earth Day!

This week: Another sign of the season changing ... Danish Mill reopens this week - Thursday, April 25 @ 7:00 am. Regular schedule - Monday thru Saturday 7 to 3 ...yum, yum, yum!

Saturday - April 27 - Washington DC Benefit Car Wash - @ the School and the 60th Annual Island Party @ Karly's.

From the TPAC - Another Saturday Option...

Have a great week!

* Thanks to the Door County Humane Society for use of the photo and background info.

a world of books...oh yes!

Those of you who know me or perhaps just follow this blog know of my love of Books and the art/necessity of a good read... it's not a stretch for me to find World Book Night a good thing.

Tuesday, April 23 is World Book Night. This map shows the distribution points for WBN...and this is just the Upper Midwest. Look close to see a blue dot at the tip of Door County... the Island. I have been selected to be a "giver" and will have a box of 20 copies to distribute that day/night. World Book Night is a nonprofit that spreads the love and power of reading person to person.

  

I lucked out and was given my first choice, Michael Perry's book, Population 485! According to his website, www.sneezingcow.com, of all his experiences, Perry says the single most meaningful thing he has ever done is serving 12 years beside his neighbors on the New Auburn Area Fire Department.  (Firefighters might like to know if Perry continues to be a member of the squad, click here for the answer.)

 Perry's book has a big focus on his EMT/Firefighter work in his hometown, New Auburn, WI  which is why I chose it.Our  Fire Department - a portion shown above after an EMT refresher course and below at an ice rescue practice - means so much to those of us on Washington Island. (WIFD Photos)

 I like the idea of sharing  this book and this event with the Island... just a little part of 25,000 WBN volunteers and 500,000 books involved throughout the U.S. April 23 is the night of the Island's Annual Meeting.  I know I'll be there. There are other possibilities for distribution points... planning still in flux. 

Not to forget... the last week has been  snowy...again.  One evening, the 10 pm news reported the Island having the most snowfall in their listening area at 9.5 inches and it hadn't ended. So windy at one point, a couple of ferry runs had to land at Gills Rock instead of Northport. So for now......at least until Winter is off Island. Today, as I write this, it's sunny and the ferry crew were in short sleeves... lot's of melting, mud, and even some dry roads... I'll take it!

Have a great week!

Fast Approaching:

 Anna Karenina @ the TPAC, Sunday, April 21 Showings: 11:00 2:00 4:30 and & 7:00

Lyra Returns! Monday, April 22 @ Trinity 7:00 pm

An Island favorite, Lyra, a vocal music ensemble from the St. Petersburg Conservatory, are returning. Their repertoire includes folk songs of lyric, dancing and ritual nature performed not only in the composer’s original arrangements, but those of Lyra’s as well. Secular songs of Russian classical composers represent yet another side of Lyra’s creative activity.

Loose Ends & April Showers

Spring? .... Spring! Shown in steady melt at the Cottage...still snowy ....Spring/snow/ showers...well, all of those words begin with an "s"... up here there is actually a link or relationship ... they signify a normal Washington Island weatherwise at this time of year. We were lucky last year...70 degrees in mid-March no less! We were spoiled...
*This, our slow but steady melting season, is normal...alas. So the photo above fits...sometimes the changes can occur even faster ... all in one day...like this past weekend... well, everything but the warm part...This added defrosting time has been put to good use. It has allowed me to pursue a few unfinished projects.

People ask how do you get everything in if/when you leave the Island? It can be a bit of an organizational nightmare but one can get much in if one plans ahead... I do try... this week it was my Spring (medical) Fling.It was a little sunnier there...perhaps my reward for getting a plethora of appointments accomplished at one time...however, much melting was in progress on the Island.Returning, it was nice to have a little more time, given the late boats starting this past Friday. Not too many cars on the 7:45 boat but it's a start. The extra time let me pick up some pansies. Time to get my fingers dirty! At this point, it's an indoor project. As I write this, the April showers have turned to snow showers... hard to see in this photo but trust me, it's there! So I will continue to work with cuttings and cold weather hardy plants inside...for now.Do note, the weather has been fickle this weekend with the snow turning to rain...the sun even showed up Sunday afternoon and we spied some little green daffodil tips coming up through the leaves at the Cottage. So Spring is moving along, Island style.

Another project has been checked off my list. For many years. several crystal necklaces from my  grandmother as well as Lew's have been tucked away in a drawer...just couldn't figure out what to do with them. The styles weren't me... picture a Fifties style necklace here ... but after a good deal of thought ... 
the crystals have found places in newly designed pieces. Just seeing them makes me smile.  I will cherish the memory they imbue. My thanks to Laura Findlay Hagen for her patience and her expertise. I think Grandmother would be happy to see her gems in use again.

Lastly, as the Season starts to gain a foothold and I shift to thinking about the Cottage Spring Cleaning, this last week has allowed me to pause and take care of another loose end. I saw a note when I was in Illinois that stated hundreds of people on transplant lists  lost their lives there in the last year. April is donate life month nationwide. Consider signing up.

 This Week

Washington Island Community Blood Drive Thursday April 11 @ the Community Center Gym from 10:00am to 2:00pm...sponsored by the Washington Island Student Council.

"Singing for Seniors" Saturday April 13 @ the TPAC, 7:00pm... Lloyd Michalson, David Hatch, and Lynn Gudmundsen sing old time gospel music. Admission is free to Seniors!

Planning Ahead

Sportsman"s Club Annual Wildlife Fundraising Banquet Saturday April 20 @ Karly's. Proceeds go to the pheasant program and the planting of clover and corn to feed Island wildlife. 

The First Car Wash of the Year! April 27 from 10-1pm, School Parking Lot... The DC group will be having a car wash in the school parking lot. Sue says,"Let's get old man winter off of our cars!" Help support the group as they raise funds for their trip to Washington DC.

Island Party! April 27 @ Karly's...it's the 60th Anniversary of this event! Theme: Turn Back Time. What was going on in 1953? Come and see...Lois is cooking and Elvis will be making an appearance. Proceeds  go to support the Community Center and other community projects.

Heads up on Memorial Day weekend - The DC Trippers will be having a rummage and car wash, so as you are Spring Cleaning, think of donating your finds to this great cause. If you have items please contact Sue Cornell.

Looks like April is going to be busy!

Have a great week!

 * Re the Weather "Art"...this came from a Friend through Facebook. Have looked and looked and still am not sure who should get the credit. Those who know me may think I go overboard to note sources. However, I do think  it is important...if someone recognizes this, do let me know!

Things Spring!

I am going to Think Spring...the Equinox has come and gone... in spite of the weather...it is possible... After a few days of dullness, at least it was sunny in the early a.m today...Sun, we need to see you more often...you put me in such a brighter frame of mind.

It must be getting warmer...I left my gloves at home as I left for a trip off Island today... observed more gulls...and water at Northport.This may come more under the heading of how do we merely get through the dullness.What to do?  For me... color helps. Find a little bit... maybe more than a little... and enjoy it.

 It must be Spring...the Ferry Schedule has changed...loading continues at the Potato Dock though.

Six ferries scheduled each way daily and the first late Friday Boat - 7:45 pm from Northport - is this Friday, April 5! Do check the Spring schedule at www.wisferry.com  before you start your trip.Another rite of Spring is happening on the Island... maple trees have been tapped......the sap is running! Didn't realize the receptacles would be such a variety...Here's the good thing about all these cool days and freezing temperatures at night... more sap is flowing and there is continuing smoke coming from the sugar shacks. It is a time consuming process which calls for much monitoring. I think the result is worth it. It is hard to go back to store bought syrups after tasting this version.The ice is lessening in the Door and at Northport but a  stop at People's Park shows where it is going. The ice shoves  are collecting there...as the day goes on... the colors change... a beautiful sight.

Do Remember:

 Sunday, April 7^th  “Center Stage”... at the Rec. Center at 2:00 p.m.

 On the Program: humorous scenes featuring: Cindra Hokkanen, Dave Ranney & Pat Wright; a dramatic scene featuring: Carissa Mann & her daughter Emma; a storytelling experience featuring Audrey Nourse.

Following a refreshment break...“Open Stage,” an opportunity for volunteers in the audience to participate.  

Planning Ahead:

 May at the Movies - Miss one of these in the theatre? Just thought I would list these options a little early so if the Island figures in travel plans, add them to your calendar.

April 21 - Anna Karinina 

May 5 - Skyfall

May 19 - Lincoln

Have a great week!

March Madness

For me, March Madness has nothing to do with Basketball this year and everything to do with...the weather. Winter Blues? ... Bah!

Oh...now I get it...saw the chart on the news last week...it's official...Winter... and it's snowfall... was (is?)  more of a challenge this year. The snow came later and is taking its time leaving the scene...businesses are having guessing games as to when it will totally be... gone...yes, we had another snowfall of 6"s or so last week... it may be a while but... ... I can see outdoor furniture...colorful furniture...Spring is coming!

It really is...I keep telling myself. Okay so there is still ice inside the breakwater at Northport but, now there are gulls walking on it looking for an opening. On the other side of the pier at Northport, the water is open and those little specks are ducks dobbing up and down.

Things are waking up on the other side of the Door...it may not feel like Spring but, activities are happening that make me think Spring may be on it's way. Businesses are making moves which have led to announcements. 

Four businesses right on Hwy 42 in downtown Sister Bay have made such announcements. Drink Coffee has purchased the former Moretti's. I saw them hard at work on the building as I went through today.
Just next door, Cupcake Heaven will be opening  in Drink Coffee's old location in early May. There are pictures of cupcakes in their windows!Continuing North, the now yellow building  is being reworked into what will be the Door County Creamery, a cheese store/factory. Got that? Wait! There's more...The former Sister Bay Cafe has been sold to the owners of Wild Tomato in Fish Creek. (I will truly miss the Cafe's heart shaped cardamom waffles.) 

Over in Bailey's Harbor, the former Town Square Market will become the base for Door County Brewing Co.So there is some changing going on here...one just has to look for it!

Another Opening...

Julies Upscale Resale! Woo Hoo!!! One of my favorites ... opening this Thursday March 28! Long weekends for now - Thursday thru Saturday 10:00 to 4:00 pm through the month of April...as she says, "new things everyday!" Located on the extreme North end of Ephraim, "kitty corner" from Associated Bank.

Remember:

Friday - Do note that the  Library will have limited hours today:  1:00 – 3:00 p.m.

Saturday - Mark your calendars for the Washington DC Fundraiser "Breakfast with the Easter Bunny" from 8 am - 10 am. It will be right before the Egg Hunt at the Rec Center which starts at 10 am.... serving Homemade Buttermilk pancakes, sausage and orange juice. Ages 10 and up are $8.00 and ages 2-9 are $5.00. So please come for a really fun morning. 

 Movie! This coming Saturday: Les Miserables at the TPAC - four showings: 11:00, 2:00, 5:00, 8:00.

Have a great week!

10 Reasons to Like March

I find at this point on the Calendar the days can be a bit ummm...long? ... er... challenging? However, we must muster on and with a little positive thinking...I can recognize some reasons to value these days.

1. More time...more light!Hallelujah for the the time change....more light is a beautiful thing!

2. Another nice thing is....catching up with your friends...Meet the ROMEOs...that is "Retired Old Men Eating Out"! As I entered Findlay's for Breakfast the other day, I couldn't believe the high number of cars! Yes, it was a Friday so Corned Beef Hash was the featured item... but really! 

These boys must really like their Hash! By the decibel level of the conversation, they like the time to share with each other as well. As summer comes around these guys will be busy again volunteering and taking on their seasonal or summer jobs so I am not sure the meetings will continue.  I hope so.

3. Use those snowshoes!

Quick, before it gets too mushy and slushy! It is warming up though...Lew was able to xcountry ski over the weekend without the extra layer of long underwear!4. Reading...oh yeah ... enough said!

5. Movies...magazines...moments...here's a sweet little movie filmed on the Peninsula a couple of years ago. Tony Shalhoub, the man behind this film has longtime connections with the Ellison Bay area and has recently agreed to be the Grand Marshall of the parade during Olde Ellison Bay Days this coming June! (Theme of the fest is...Feed the Fish!)6. Time to see the small things... a vision from Susan Ulm...there is still time to take a breath and enjoy. 7. Hot Chocolate time...perfect the art of a tasty cup of sweet brew...sip a little as we contemplate! This vision is from nephew Nathan Clarke who enjoys making his own marshmallows...we don't have to go that far but, there is time to do it!8. Snowman time... snow at this time...if we have it and we do...packs well for creating creatures and keeping little ones busy and out of the house...another photo from Nathan (who has two girls that do keep him busy).9. Enjoying art ....this painting by Mark David Nelson is a lovely reflection of Winter. It does remind me of the Island. Thanks for letting me share!

10. It could be the getting away or travel ....that, and now having the time to process.  The Cottage may be "asleep" but I am able to see things - literally and figuratively - in a fresh way...It helps me come up with new ideas...much like our visitors do when they have their Island time up here...seeing new things help me figure out how to do things in my own home...and the Cottage.

On second thought ... the weather/atmosphere/temperament of this time of year may not be exclusive to the Island.

Trudge on wherever you are...

Coming Up

Lou and Peter Berryman will be appearing at the TPAC on Saturday, March 23rd at 7:00 pm...They are delightful singers-song writers who provide unique style, energetic and friendly performances on 12-string guitar and accordion.  They were here several years ago in December for a dinner show that was enjoyed by many. (Washington Observer Photo)

 Have a great week!

Thinking Time...Dredging Time...

I do like this time of year...
 to be able to have time to cogitate...

This time of year I seem to have more time to think...Fiddlers Green is also quiet now...so Kate Kaniff was able to capture this daybreak view...and while I get to think and others get to travel, some people are working ... hard. Actually, since mid-January as weather has allowed, the Washington Island Ferry Line has been in the process of making the dock at Northport more "user friendly". Dredging at Northport has concentrated on the area at the end of the Pier. Maybe this means I won't have to back on and off the ferry as much.

But then again, the Spring Ferry Schedule will begin March 29 and other boats will be able to be used... hopefully, my "backing on" worries will be over. There are two DNR permits in place - one for Northport and one for Detroit Harbor. The push to dredge that I have noted these past several weeks could also be due to the Spring deadlines for those permits.There is good news though. I learned this past Friday from WIFL President Hoyt Purinton that the DNR has granted an extension until April 1 for Detroit Harbor, and April 15 for Northport. From what I am observing, this dredging is a long term "work in progress" which will continue into next Fall as scheduling and weather permits.

So while we puzzle as to when the Ice will leave, I am thinking Spring Break is on the scene or fast approaching for many of you folks....enjoy it! Wherever the winds take you (or not)... a break from your routine is a good thing.Allow yourself!    

Have a great week!

What do we do in Winter? Pygmalion!

Ohhhhh....it was so good!

Well ...  Anna did it...  Eliza was great!*

I admit it....I am an Anna Groupie.* Everyone in the cast put on a great show...if I try to name them all, I will surely miss one.*Oh my... what a wonderful cast!* However, There were a few that were so special to see!

Joyce carried off her part so well... then there was Ham Rutledge...right there in the middle...**

who seemed to be enjoying his role...quite a bit. **His sister, Joan Blair, turned in a commendable performance as well.  Not sure I could remember all their lines let along all that Howard/Henry had to learn.**

 

I did get one picture at the end of the show...Fun to have the two Gibson actresses memorialized by a third Gibson sister. But another reason I include this photo is the set itself. The production team deserves just as much credit for making Pygmalion such a success!

Let's not forget what goes on backstage.** There were so many people who put forth much effort...in collecting and managing props...creating, collecting and assisting with costumes, etc. (There are no words to cover "etc.")***

... much study occurred to achieve the correct period. For example, the panels in Mrs. Higgin's drawing room were created by using William Morris stencils. Morris was well known for his work in that time period. In fact, his work continues to be available today. Click here for more information.

This was a production by Island Players...that's Players with an "s"...I think that says it all. It would be safe to say over 60 people participated in making Pygmalion a wonderful addition to our Island winter. Many members covered more than one job/part/task...teamwork is what made it happen. Kudos!*

Have a great week!

Photos: Many Thanks to *Steve Waldron & Island Players, ** Joanne Jack, ***Crucible Theatre, Sheffield, England

Island(s) .... & ... Emergencies

More Snow? Oh Yes!  Glad we were able to travel safely back to the Island... this was our road to the ferry dock...nice to be able to enjoy Mother Nature as she shared more snow with us this week. The ice remains but travel - from the Potato Dock - is manageable. While we have to be ready for whatever, we are fortunate to have experienced, caring, and conscientious folks who live on Islands.

Emergencies...Every town has them...I find Islands prepare for them.

While we were in Key West, there was an announcement regarding an accident.

A fiery plane crash at the Florida Keys Marathon Airport Tuesday morning during our visit resulted in one fatality, numerous injuries and a massive rescue operation involving dozens of emergency personnel, doctors at Fishermen's Community Hospital and other agency officials.

 There's just one catch: It was all staged. Every three years, the Federal Aviation Administration requires such a drill. In conjunction, Fishermen's Community Hospital conducted its emergency training. The exercises utilized Marathon High School students -- made up in fake blood etc. -- to play the role of the victims.
The strange thing was... Washington Island was also preparing for an emergency that same week at the now unused ferry dock in Detroit Harbor....a rescue on ice. From Island EMT Lou Small: "Ice Rescue Training  - Firefighter/EMT Con M. pulls victim Firefighter Mary H. out of the icy water onto the rescue sled." "Firefighters then pull ropes connected to them to safety. They are wearing Mustang cold water survival suits.""A lot of the crew on the ice bringing equipment on and off the ice. They also supplied the power to pull the ropes in with the victim, rescuer, and sled. Note the old water marks on sheet piling from higher water levels. In the 80's the high water was coming over the top of the sheet piling here."*We are so fortunate to have these folks on Washington Island!

Plus 2 - These items are not emergencies but they may help Life be easier on the Island.

1. Times Added!!! Passing by the TPAC today, it was fun to see that 2013 Best Picture Award Winner Argo is appearing this Sunday. However, after a call to Emmett Woods to clarify, two more showings have been added. An 11:00 am show as well as one at 4:30 pm have been added to allow folks a daytime option if they wish to fit Argo in as well as the Island Players' Center Stage event at the Rec Center.

Center Stage: On the Program: Two scenes, one serious, one humorous for the 1st half w/a break for refreshments and then on to an "open stage"  w/ audience volunteer participation...from 2:00 to 4:00 pm. 

....Make it a double feature on Sunday!

2. Sturgeon Bay...Bayview Bridge Closing: Scheduled to start March 4

 Wisconsin DOT has announced Bayview Bridge will close to vehicular and pedestrian traffic beginning a week from today as part of a $4.8 Million project to upgrade the Bridge. It is expected to reopen to traffic by July 4. Do plan extra time to make the ferry as traffic will be detoured through Sturgeon Bay proper!

Have a great week!

* Many Thanks to Lou Small for the use of his notes. Photos by Lou and Island Police Chief Tyler McGrane.

Island Time

What is it about Islands?

We live on one and we love to visit them. I never get tired of Islands. A month or so ago, we returned to Key West for our Winter break. It's fun to see and compare the similarities between the Island where I live year round and this one at the tip of Florida. 

SignsThere are signs here...

.and there.

 Trains - On the Island...

 It's the Cherry Train...and the Viking Train.In Key West...it's the Conch Train... a final photo under the category of "Transportation" - There are "unique, expressive" vehicles (yes, I worked real hard to come up with a positive word combo)... at Key West. Reminds me that we do like/utilize a wide variety of vehicles on Washington Island as well....but that would be anther post. 

Boat Tales of Woe...Any place near the water will have stories about mishaps on the water (see August 13 post - "Respect the Weather Gods")...Key West is no different. We were walking along the Boardwalk and Lew saw this...

...a (wounded) 79 ft. Schooner boat named Hindu...according to Capt. Josh Rowan, the 1,000 pound main mast broke in two places coming back from viewing the finish of the Wrecker's Cup Race. Apparently, the main and jib sails were unfurled and they were motoring when "a piece of hardware failed". The good news? The crew and 24 passengers on this vessel made it through with no serious injuries.  What a story those folks will be able to tell. 

Ferries... We have one to another Island/State Park...Rock Island.  In Key West, there is also a ferry... this time to a National Park... also with camping opportunities if one wishes to pack everything in...

Sunsets... a big thing in Key West. They handle the event diffferently there than on Washington Island.Everyone gathers at Mallory Square...and a lot of folks show up.
Although the show includes many street artists with a variety of acts, I think I like the intimacy of gathering around a campfire on Figenschau Bay.I guess I have a different philosophy about sunsets. I will let you choose which ones you prefer.

Have a great week!

Holidays...Winter Holidays!

This week is a fun one...The Fish Derby is on along with Winter Carnival Week at the School...Lincoln's Birthday is Tuesday...Valentine's Day is Thursday...and then there's Pygmalion over the weekend! It's a busy time. People always ask what we do in the Winter...it seems like there is a lot to do!Lincoln was born on February 12 - I do like this guy...we go way back. I lived most of my life in Illinois so I grew up hearing, reading, and visiting many things Lincoln. I was born on his birthday...the day not the year. I received many "Lincoln Log" sets...and they wern't as much fun as Legos, I think. Living in Illinois, I always had the day off from school...very cool! Having chosen Education as a career, that perk continued for quite a while...and then President's Day came along....one must cope with changes, but it sure was fun while it lasted! Do you think Abe said/wrote all the things attributed to him? Hmmm...not sure but I do like this one.

The latest movie?... Not bad. I liked it. My book club is currently reading Gore Vidal's Lincoln...quite interesting especially since seeing the movie....what an accomplished communicator and complex individual...a good Winter's read.

In addition,Valentine's Day arrives this week as well...these holidays are a nice break during the Winter season.*

From Stefanie Jacob : 

Overheard at Walgreen's:

She (meaningfully) to he (oblivious): "Valentine's Day is Coming Right Up, you know!!"

Okay...so this was not taken at Walgreens...but  I hope the idea is evident...yes, folks...there is still time to scramble...I sincerely hope you don't have to...that you are prepared...

if not...get moving! Here's an idea: chocolate cupcakes with peanut butter frosting...Danish Mill does them quite well! I think there might be some red velvet ones too.

Island Players' Pygmalion is coming up...**Producing two tickets for a performance and a cupcake might be just the thing. (Tickets are available at the Red Cup and the Rec Center)...Yes, I know the Fish Derby is on and coming to a grand conclusion about that time but think about it...Or maybe jewelry designer, Laura Findlay Hagen can help you out!......Oh! I hear Findlay's Holiday Inn is preparing a special Dinner for Valentine's Day....it doesn't matter how big or small the idea might be...it's the remembering that counts.Another window  shot...the sill this time...Love valentines in Nature!

Valentine's Day is a very good time to remember your friends...girl friends are important... significant...in a woman's life. 

I took the photo above at Culvers in Sturgeon Bay the other week. Hadn't been there for a while and it appears the new owners have given the place an update. The sentiment in this piece is so true! As I took it in, I realized it had attracted me for another reason.  I recognized the artist...Jeanne Whildin...nice to see such a wide selection of her work presented here! Made me smile. Wish it could have been a better photo but try as I might it wasn't happening. All the more reason to take a look when you are in the area. It is a wonderful thing to see something that reminds one of a long ago colleague. 
My life would not be the same without my friends......thank you, Ladies!

 

One last quote from Mr. Lincoln..."Always remember your resolution to succeed is more important than any one thing." The photo actually came along with the quote***...talk about fitting in...seems meant for a blog on the Island!

Have a great week!

* Photo courtesy of Door County Visitor's Bureau**Illustration courtesy of The Old Globe, San Diego. Their production is also playing now through the 17th.*** Pinterest