Bits of Me

2011-08-04T11:54:00.002-04:00

AMAZING GROWTH
It is amazing to me the things you can observe walking along the beach. This broken piece of brick from some long-ago cannery chimney appeared to have seaweed growing right out of the solid brick. So much beauty from the sea.

2011-08-03T17:17:00.002-04:00

POPPIES A'POPPIN'
Our poppies have just begun to come out in force. Everywhere else on the island poppy time has come and gone.
This is a very small island and yet there are many micro-climates. Fortunately we live in an area where our poppies bloom late. So - when everyone else is morning the passing of their blooms we are just beginning to enjoy ours.
This year I was lucky enough to find some Himalayan black poppy seeds. I planted over a thousand and they have come up and look very healthy. But - so far all I see is beautiful green foliage. I am still awaiting the first black poppy to bloom. I want to see if they actually are black or just a deep shade of dark red. Till then, I just keep checking every morning.

2011-08-03T16:55:00.003-04:00

FOUND TREASURE
The other night when I was out walking Dylan Thomas I stumbled upon a unique surprise. At the corner of our driveway near the telephone pole there sat two bottles of unopened wine. Most definitely, I appropriated them; if for no other reason than to bring them home where I could put on my glasses and see exactly what they were. A nice looking Rose and a bottle of "Billy Bowlegs" sparkling blueberry wine. The blueberry wine was from the Okefenokee Swamp no less. Since they were unopened we decided we may as well try them. When we taste the wine maybe we will realize it wasn't exactly a "found treasure;" perhaps merely a "Find"

2011-08-03T14:44:00.003-04:00

LIVING IN THE BEAUTY
It is a wonder to get out of bed in the morning and go to the studio to look out over the water. We are blessed with the most spectacular sunrises almost everyday. The trick is to be awake to see it especially during the time of year when sunrise occurs at 3:45 AM.
These are just two examples of our blazing, knock-your-eyes-out, Eastport mornings.

2011-08-03T13:53:00.002-04:00

AFTER THE FURY
Last evening as we were having pre-dinner cocktails and chatting in the dining room, I went to the kitchen to check on dinner and discovered a lovely rainbow out across the water. It was a fairly large one and ran almost the length of Campobello Island.
The photograph does not do justice to the real deal, but I just had to try and capture it on film.
Prior to this sighting, we had been discussing how it was perfect weather for rainbows. What a nice surprise after all this rain and noise.

2011-08-03T13:41:00.003-04:00

RESCUED DELPHINIUMS
The night before last Mother nature gave us such a thunder and lightening storm that was was impossible to sleep. Thank goodness my dog, Dylan Thomas, is not afraid of lightening and loud noises. He just does not approve of them and considers them an unnecessary annoyance.
Sadly, I awoke to find most all of my beautiful delphiniums stalks snapped off just below the blossoms. So - I cut them and brought them into the house to be admired and enjoyed for a few more days. I prefer to enjoy them in nature and would usually never cut them, but necessity has made it so and I love having them in the house.

2011-08-01T17:01:00.002-04:00

NEW LILIES IN THE SOUTH GARDEN
Lately I am finding gardening a pleasure and not a chore. Therefore, I have increased plantings. David dug the horrid day lilies out of the south garden. They had simply taken over and were completely out of control.
In their place we planted several varieties of sedum, sea holly, thistle and some Asiatic lilies. The lilies are an ivory-cream color with lovely paprika centers. The coloring of the centers compliment the red sedum that is getting ready to bloom. There were a few bare spaces in that garden and I filled them in with giant white gladioli. This garden is becoming quite impressive. We are pleased because it is the garden most in view to people driving up our street.

2011-08-01T16:42:00.002-04:00

ROSES
I have always loved roses and usually had some wherever I lived. Of course, I tried growing them here in Maine. I planted some fantastic white JFK's in my white garden and they did well.
Encouraged by this I decided to plant a memorial rose garden along the driveway. This was to be in honor of all our departed and well loved family members. For some reason this project was not as successful. The roses would do well for one season and then die out in the Winter or in the following Spring. I realized I couldn't plant new roses every year, so I did a little research. Amazingly there are many conflicting opinions for winter rose care. I tried them all and none were satisfactory to me.
I found a nursery in Calais and had a nice chat with the gentleman who owns the place. He told me that growing roses in Maine was chancy, however he had some rose bushed that he guaranteed would winter well for me with minimal fussing about putting them to bed. These bushes are small and close to the ground and a couple of them are climbers, but they are beautiful and hardy. The ones I planted last year came back very healthy this year and so I added some more. Now I have ten rose bushes lining the driveway and probably will eventually put in some more. They are so satisfying to look at and I find myself in a kind of Zen-type bliss wen I am caring for the tiny beauties. The ones pictures are an unusual apricot color.

2011-08-01T16:24:00.003-04:00

FLOWERS EVERYWHERE
Everything's coming up roses and delphiniums at our house. We are so proud of our blue delphiniums. There was this narrow space between the cellar bulkhead and the back deck. It was kind of ugly and empty. Because it was so shaded we thought nothing would grown there. I goggled "plants that grow in the shade" and found out foxglove and delphiniums should do well. The first year they both rewarded us with an nice flowering screen on the side of the deck. Both plants are annuals and should have come back the following year. The foxglove disappointed us, but the delphinium did return although not as abundantly. So I just added more plants to the bed and the little darlings went crazy. They had a long journey to climb above the bulkhead to reach any sun. This encouraged them to grow very high. Out tallest plant measures seven feet high from the ground to the tip.
Nothing could be more pleasant than morning coffee or evening cocktails on the deck with all the abundance of nature surrounding us.

2011-08-01T16:12:00.003-04:00

NATURE'S SURPRISE
About three years ago we planted two yucca plants at the bottom of the yard near the Leslie sculpture. It did well and wintered nicely. Each year it sprang forth with new greens and seemed to be thriving. This year David noticed a stalk arising from the center of the plant. We kept close tabs on it everyday and were amazed to learn our pampered little yucca was going to bloom for us. No doubt expressing it's appreciation for all the good care we gave it. What a joy it is to look out the window each morning and see those lovely ivory blossoms. I am not so well informed about yucca, but I shall have to research it. I am curious to know if it will bloom annually now that it has matured. Ah, how lucky we are to live here with all the beauty surrounding us.

2011-06-10T11:24:00.002-04:00

GROWING SEASON AGAIN
How wonderful to live in a place with seasonal change again. After 36 years in Florida it is an amazing awakening.
Now that Mud season is over and it is really and truly Spring. I can spend part of almost everyday outside gardening.
The vegetable garden is is and doing well. We planted peas very early this year hoping to be able to get in two crops. Experts say it can be done.
This year we have a couple new additions. We planted Kaleidoscope carrots which are varied colors and not just orange. Also we were lucky enough to get some heritage tomato seedlings the other day from Growing Concerns in Calais. I can't wait to eat a black or a purple tomato. Pictures will be posted.
Ah, the joy of having the doors and windows open and spending most of the days outdoors. Days are getting longer and longer and soon we will be having cocktails on the deck at 9:30 PM and still be enjoying the wonderful fading light.

2010-09-19T10:58:00.001-04:00

CHILDHOOD MEMORIES
Here are a few shots of the old cage elevator in the famous Transit Building. I can well remember riding up in it with my mother to see the pediatrician. The nice lady who ran the elevator always wore white gloves and had a little fold down stool to sit on. I can still here her say, "Just one moment please" as she juggled the controls to make the elevator perfectly even and level with the floor landing. I seem to recall she usually had a lollipop for me too.

2010-09-19T10:30:00.002-04:00

FRIENDS FOR 49 YEARS
In July I went back to my hometown, Oil City, Pennsylvania, to visit family during the town's celebration called "Oil Heritage Week." It was amazing to see that finally things are changing for the better. The town had a brighter look and the downtown area was cleaned up and perked up. A big new addition was the art galleries and the artists studios in the old Transit Building. Thankfully the building has been preserved as a national historical site. It was built by J. D. Rockefeller during the oil boom days. It has been preserved, restored and is functioning nicely as an art space. Something beneficial to city.
Fran, my cousin, and I renewed our 49 year old continuing friendship with Miriam and had a great day exploring the festival area and the art spaces. One of the galleries had a wall for anyone to add art. Miriam took the opportunity to document our reunion and presence on the scene. Ah, nostalgia.

2010-08-09T11:14:00.002-04:00

WHITE GARDEN UPDATE
As you can see the white garden is progressing nicely. It is such a joy to open the door to the heavenly scent of the Casablanca and Asiatic lilies. They are an eye-catching site both in the bright sunshine and in the full moonlight. I enjoy seeing people stopping to admire them on their walks by my house. The was definitely a labor of love.

2010-07-11T13:11:00.002-04:00

BEAUTY IN ALL STAGES
Yesterday while I was out photographing the beautiful blooms in the Thistle Garden, I took notice of the giant alium. These two plants dominate the East garden. It's quite something to see the huge purple spheres when the alium changes from it's initial ghostly white color. Now as thistle and the sea holly come into their own, the alium is beginning to dry up and die off. Even in it's final stages of the life cycle it remains a breath-taking wonder. These two plants are complimenting each other now and I am so pleased I have arrived at that time in my when I feel I am really seeing things and taking the time to stop and marvel at the constant beauty in my environment.

2010-06-20T13:21:00.002-04:00

ANOTHER SEASON BEGINS
Last night was the opening reception for the 2110 Eastport Gallery season. It was also a celebration of their 25th anniversary. So much time and so many changes. It is always fun to go to a gallery reception and this one was exceptionally crowded. There were so many people there you actually had to go out on the sidewalk for a breath of air and to cool down a bit. The snack tables were over-laden with goodies and it appeared everyone had a great time. I know I did.

2010-06-19T10:35:00.000-04:00

MORNING VIEWS
This is one of the joys of living near the sea. Looking out from the balcony on a warm, breezy summer morning to see the fishing boats heading out. The slightly choppy water is so inviting. Already the temperature is 72 degrees and it seems like being on board this boat would be a cool and refreshing experience. Who needs TV when views like this are just outside every east-side window?

2010-06-13T11:40:00.002-04:00

WHITE GARDEN UPDATE
This picture was taken only four weeks after the first white garden photo of 2110 and you can see how things are growing, especially the Casablanca Lilies in the right background. They are last year's bulbs and they have taken well to their new environment. I noticed a few wild daisies seeded themselves in the mid-center back. I never planted them; so, it must have Nature's hand at work. Although they are not completely white due to their buttery yellow centers, I have decided to leave them for a little accent and contrast. After all, they managed the seeding all by themselves; I guess I should admire their beauty and resourcefulness. Can't wait for the lilies and white roses to bloom.

2010-06-11T11:29:00.002-04:00

EARLIER RISER REWARDS
So, I woke up at 5:10 AM one morning and couldn't go back to sleep. I took my camera and my dog, Dylan Thomas, and went out cruising the island for photo ops. I got a few nice sunrise pictures and a good shot of the morning light on greater downtown Eastport. Then we drove over to the south side on the island and were greeted with a small herd of deer in somebody's front yard. In fact one of the deer was stepping up onto the porch. I stopped the car, Dylan didn't bark, and I got a few nice close-ups of the deer. The noise of the car and the closeness of me did not seem to bother them a bit. They looked right into the camera and gave me all the time I needed to enjoy this lucky find. I swear they wanted their picture taken. Just another perk of living here in the downeast paradise.

2010-06-05T21:25:00.002-04:00

Needless to say the meal was a success and enjoyed by everyone. It is so nice to treat ourselves well. I truly believe the best revenge is eating well. Good food and good company - what else could you want. Maybe a nice Dalmatian - but, we have one of them too.

2010-06-05T21:07:00.003-04:00

MASTERING THE ART OF FRENCH COOKING IN EASTPORT
Today was a rainy and dreary day - what to do. How about preparing a classical French meal from "Mastering the Art of French Cooking" by Julia Child. It seemed quite simple - read the recipe, follow the rules and take no shortcuts. So - I did and the results were fantastic. We fasted on: Martinis, sreak au poivre, crepes de pommes de terre, concombrs au beurre, beaujolias villages, chocolate sorbet and chocolat petit ecolier. Everything turned out perfectly and this was my first time trying Julia Child's somewhat difficult recipes. We dedicated the dinner to Martha who is still in France and is celebrating her birthday tomorrow. I may duplicate the meal for her when she comes to visit in August. What a lovely and productive way to spend a rainy cloudy day.

2010-06-04T23:04:00.002-04:00

SPECIAL TIMES
There are some special seasonal times to look forward to and enjoy with relish (no pun intended). A big thrill for me is the first and the last hot dog at Rosie s on the Breakwater. The place has been open for a few weeks now and recently on a very sunny day we went down for lunch and savored how delicious it was. We can go to Rosie's for lunch everyday and no hot dog will ever taste as good as the first and the last of the season. Things can become very special when they are not always readily available.

2010-06-04T14:50:00.002-04:00

STOCKING WINES
It was a perfect day for a drive out to Audrey"s Ice House to pick up our wine club selections. How fortunate we are to have the choices of wines and the knowledge and assistance of Audrey, who has never steered up wrong, right here in our backyard. I may live out in the middle of nowhere at the end of the world, but all I want or need is here or easily accessible. Plus I spend every day totally surrounded by Nature's beauty. And - The Big Apple is just a pleasant train ride away!

2010-06-03T11:47:00.002-04:00

GARDENING AGAIN
Last month the 2010 gardening season began again. What a pleasure it was to get outside and dig into the earth and start to dream about the vegetables and beautiful flowers to come. This is the second year for the white garden. Last year it was a huge success and had many admirers - both locally and from away. I am striving to improve this little plot through trial, error and self-education. Here is a picture of this season's beginning. As you can see the Casablanca Lilies have already started to shoot up from last year. They were so lovely that I have added many more to their number. Perhaps in years to come I will end up with a white lily garden. I thought it would be fun to keep a pictorial record of the progress for my own amusement. And so - this is the beginning, early May, 2010.

2010-06-03T11:19:00.002-04:00

LYING ABOUT
I must confess. I sometimes do not make good use of my time. I am not always terribly well organized and I do love to spend some time just lying about.
Somewhere down inside a little guilt came bubbling up and I have decided to turn over a new leaf. I am going to be much more attentive to my blogging and I am going to tackle and complete all those projects that have here-to-for remained buried beneath mountains of procrastination.
For inspiration I have started a new blog which I hope to eventually have printed up into my own cookbook. Here's the site if you would like to follow along and keep tabs on my progress:
http://thomas-kimes.blogspot.com/

2010-04-15T02:22:00.005-04:00

GRAFFITI OR STREET ART?
I personally would rather look at the graffiti than the sloppily painted "Post No Bills" signs - the "bills" and the graffiti were certainly more eye catching and thought provoking.

2010-04-13T03:27:00.006-04:00

FROM THE TOP TO THE BOTTOM
After going to the top it was time to hit the streets and just walk about. There is a special feeling being part of the hussle and bussle of the big city. You can feel the heartbeat of the place as you scurry along. It seems everyone is on a set course and nobody gets in anyone's way. Yet I found the people to be accommodating and helpful. Was this a post 9-11 syndrome or has it always been this way? I certainly was impressed; especially after my initial paranoid thrust into Penn Station. My very first impulse was to re-board the train and go home. So glad I didn't as I would have missed a very unique experience. Our trip was smiled upon by excellent weather - sunny, bright and warm days. People were even eating outside and it was very comfortable to just pound the pavement and explore.

2010-04-04T01:51:00.002-04:00

New York City at my feet - where to begin?
Since I had never been to the city before, The Empire State Building was naturally headlining my "must see" list. I had watched a documentary years ago about the construction of the building and now was my chance to check it out in person. So impressive and so intimidating. I was ill at ease and very intimidated by the elevators. In my mind elevators just should not rise to the 102nd floor; it seems unnatural. Once my anxiety was overcome and I arrived at the top, I concluded the stress was all worthwhile. What a grand view of Manhattan. You can literally see for miles and miles. The fear of heights got lost somewhere in the background of my mind as I gazed at the breath-taking panoramic view. Best way to see the city - from the TOP!

2010-03-31T04:13:00.002-04:00

My first view of the Big Apple from our 30th floor hotel room on 40th Street. I was intimated at first when we arrived at confusing Penn Station. Next, as I gazed out the window, I was impressed. Finally I became excited and anxious to get out onto the streets and start discovering all the wonderful things I had read and heard about the city. Television and movies just cannot give you the thrill of actually becoming part of the pedestrian traffic of that high energy place. And my short adventure was just beginning.

2010-03-31T04:04:00.002-04:00

As the red cap led us to our car he asked if we wanted a "quiet car". We accepted after finding out in was a space when cell phones and noisy electronics were not allowed. Even conversation had to be kept to a very low non-annoying volume. The instructions were to treat the area as a "library". What heaven. What peace. Quiet time to reflect and enjoy the passing beautiful scenery or to just wile away the hours reading and napping. Such a pleasant trip permits one to arrive fresh and rested before diving into the overwhelming culture shock of NYC. And, believe me, it was culture shock coming from tiny little isolated Eastport, Maine.

2010-03-31T03:52:00.002-04:00

Earlier this month I took my first trip to New York City. To make the adventure more exciting we traveled by train. As we boarded in Boston I was reminded of so many old movies I had seen of train station settings in Europe and felt as though I was joining an old tradition - train travel. I had never been on a train trip before either. The service was quite classy, red caps and all. I felt privileged and spoiled. The train was the Amtrak Acela when can run at 150 miles an hour and the accommodations were very nice - plush.

2010-03-28T11:29:00.002-04:00

Well, it seems almost a year has past since I've made any entries here. Lazy? I guess so. Sometimes I think it is an unfortunate mode one falls into and things appear to lose their attraction. But today I feel like "getting back into it".
This morning I awakened early and went downstairs to open the blinds and allow the light of the glorious day to come into the house. To my pleasure and amazement there were six deer returning from the water and heading to the wooded area across the street from me. There they were standing in the vacant lot and in our driveway enjoying the beautiful morning. They appeared very calm and were leisurely strolling past my window. Of course, before I thought to grab my camera, I just stood in awe and absorbed the wonder before my eyes. Again I was made acutely aware of what an enchanting and very special place this is. I am so glad I live here.

2009-04-01T16:13:00.007-04:00

CONTINUOUS METAMORPHOSIS.
Finally the dining room gets attacked. The old flooring, possibly predating the British occupation, was ripped up and hauled off to the dump. Brent is a miracle worker when it comes to renovations and home improvements. It seemed like no time at all had passed and those horrid carpet tiles were a thing of the past.
The new floor is a traditional old Maine plank floor and is painted gray to go with the rest of the house which is gray and white (inside and out). Things are just getting better everyday!

2009-04-01T15:52:00.003-04:00

A PRINCELY SITE!
I found this picture on the web somewhere and was awed and impressed. What could be more regal and charming that a basket full of Dalmatians?

2009-04-01T15:40:00.003-04:00

IT IS SPRING AGAIN.
The days warmer, brighter and sunnier. The snow is almost all gone (from around our house anyway). The new dooryard is entirely visible. The crocuses are up and the tulips have awakened and begun to poke up their greens. This is Eastport and there is mud everywhere; but take a deep breath and you will understand; it just smells like Spring.
I am anticipating setting up the green house, ordering plants for my white garden, uncovering and waking up the roses, and starting to plant creeping thyme in the dooryard cracks between the tiles. If only the wind would die down and the temperature would creep up just a tiny bit more, I have my projects under way.

2009-03-04T16:10:00.005-05:00

WINTER BLOSSOMS.
Naturally the amaryllis bloomed while we were away in Portland for a few days. However the blossoms are hail and hardy and will remain for a good week or more. On the plus side, it looks as though another bud is coming up from the base. The flowers are a brilliant red that looks scarlet in some lighting and the inside of the petals look so much like velvet that I want to caress them to feel the lovely nap. Of course, I won't touch the bloom; it shall remain a feast for just my eyes. There is a wonderful feeling of satisfaction looking at those lovely flowers and seeing the piles of white snow through the window just behind them. Spring IS coming; it does every year!

2009-02-24T14:08:00.005-05:00

WEARY OF WINTER.
Emma's blog says, "Let it snow, let it snow, let it snow" I say, "let it stop, let it stop, let it stop." I will be the first to defend the beauty of winter, but enough is enough. As much fun as using the snow blower can be, I still have no desire to be using that piece of machinery two or three times in one week.
We have had so much snow accumulation that Water Street looks like a toboggan run with six to ten foot snow walls lining the length of it. The city is running out of places to put the removed snow and yet it comes. So far today has been on the sunny side and there are no white particles drifting from the heavens. So - Let us all keep out fingers crossed and look forward to Spring and a little green to replace the white.

2009-02-24T13:55:00.003-05:00

A VISION COMPLETED
For years David has had a vision of the studio. It included a specific type of joist that he was unable to find. Through our contractor, Brent, contact was made with a man who could and would replicate the desired item. The price was reasonable and the end product was excellent, but the wait time became extended to the point of exasperation. In fact we dubbed the creator of the joist with a new moniker, "The Procrastinator Fabricator." All's well that ends well. Brent picked up the joist; buffed it; polished it; and installed it and it is perfect. It opens and yet divides the room. It has an semi-industrial, but sleek and elegant look and we are all well satisfied.

2009-02-03T10:28:00.005-05:00

BIRDING.
I don't know - is it actually "birding" when you hang out a bird feeder and a suet feeder and watch the little fellows through the kitchen window from the warmth of your home? No matter - I have become fascinated by the winter birds that come to eat. Some of the finches and chickadees are so tiny and delicate I often wonder how they can survive these harsh winters. Somehow they do and bring me the joy of observing nature everyday. Again, I am so lucky to be living here where there is such a large and varied bird population. This year we had the highest official bird count in our area. Obviously we are not driving them away, but seem to be encouraging their presence.

2009-01-31T11:41:00.005-05:00

AFTERNOON MOONRISE.
The last full moon - January 13, 2009. I was looking out the studio window at 2:30 PM and was amazed to see the moon coming up over Campobello Island. By the time I got my camera, changed the batteries, and started taking pictures it was 3:00 PM. Living here in an extreme North-Eastern locale we have much shorter days and longer nights in the winter. Still I was pretty impressed to be photographing the full moon in the middle of the afternoon.

2009-01-25T12:49:00.005-05:00

SEA SMOKE.
Some mornings, when the humidity and the temperature are just right, we awaken to a beautiful vision of a muted sunrise with curls of sea smoke roiling atop the waters of the Western Passage. It is so easy to become mesmerized, to find yourself staring out the window totally lost in a moment of time. Just another one of the many joys and privileges of living in this very special place.

2009-01-25T12:20:00.005-05:00

20 January 2009
This was a big day at out house; one that had been anticipated since November when we first learned our candidate had won and that finally, a time of hope was on the horizon. We invited a small group of our friends over for brunch and to watch the inauguration on the big screen TV. We all felt as though we were participating; it gave us a sense of "being there". We rose when the crowd rose; we put our hands over our hearts for the pledge of allegiance; we cheered and applauded along with the crowd. This was not planned - each person was acting spontaneously. It was definitely a day to remember, a page of future histories, and a time of new hope.
We heard on the news that groups all over the world were gathering to watch the inauguration of our 44th president. Positive comments were coming in from many countries and it seemed we were once again regaining the respect that we had been constantly loosing for the past eight years.
The American flag has not graced the top of our flag pole for many, many years because we had no real pride in raising the flag - to proclaim what? After the ceremonies were finished in Washington, we went into our backyard and very proudly raised the American flag while all our guest stood on the deck and watched and applauded. It was an emotion and stirring moment. Once more we CAN be proud of being Americans.

2009-01-11T17:21:00.004-05:00

BETWEEN THE BLOWS.
Though our winters can be extremely rough and severe, there is always that time of calm between the the blows of Arctic air. It's a time when the snow is still white and unspoiled on the ground. The winds are no longer scouring the land and the sun is shinning brightly.
There is nothing else to do but go for a walk in the woods and just enjoy the day. So - we do. Luckily for us the forest is as close as the shore and in a matter of minutes we can be out to Shackford Head. It is always a good winter pick-me-up.

2009-01-10T14:27:00.003-05:00

JACK WHO? FROST!
Beauty is where you find it. I found it the other morning when I opened the shades to give my winter roses some light. The ice had created such wonderful forms on the inside of the windows on the south side of the house. Of course, we had to listen to a nor'easter howling for a few hours but the results were well worth the angst of the night. Eastport is not beautiful only in summer, but all year round. I am glad I have learned to look and to see and to appreciate.

2009-01-10T12:22:00.006-05:00

FORGOTTEN ITEMS
While going through my photo files I discovered these two pictures. I originally took them as blog entries, but never followed through.
The photo on the right is of my newly established rose garden put to bed for the winter with their burlap blankets all snuggled about them. Since then, the ground has frozen and they have been covered with snow many times. I can hardly wait till Spring to behold my new, older and (I hope) bigger blossoms.
On the right there are some tiny, fragile "johnny jump-ups". After we had our first big snow, there were a few days of unseemly warm weather and the little devils must have thought it was time to bloom again because they certainly did "jump up". They were somewhat sheltered under the deck steps, but still I am amazed at their endurance and strength.

2009-01-05T15:18:00.003-05:00

A DOUBLE HEADER.
Living in Eastport affords us the opportunity to celebrate New Year's Eve twice; once at eleven o'clock when the red maple leaf drops signifying Canada's new year and again at midnight when the copper clad sardine drops to announce the arrival of the new year on Moose Island. The local band which hovers inside the Tides Institute until a few minutes before each drop comes out onto Bank Square and plays the required music - Oh Canada for the Canadians and Auld Lang Syne for us Eastporters. It was wicked cold with a wind that could cut your face, but we braved the elements with the faithful others to be part of a very unique experience that happens only once a year and only here.

2009-01-05T15:09:00.004-05:00

BIG NIGHT IN A SMALL TOWN.
How better to welcome in a new year than with good friends and a lot of noise. That's just what we did. David, Elizabeth and I went to The Rose Garden for New Year's Eve. It was a small friendly crowd with a lot of good friends. Linda, who owns the place, had hired help for the occasion and taken the night off so she could participate and whoop it up. The music was loud and enjoyable. The band played a lot of old tunes that conjured up images of times, people, and events from the past. (Am I dating myself? Ah, who cares?) After a few bottles of wine inhibitions dropped a little and David, who says he can't dance, cut up the rug with Elizabeth. At midnight Linda served a nice buffet and closed the place at one. Then we struggled against the horrid north east wind and made our way home.

2009-01-05T14:09:00.004-05:00

ANOTHER YEAR PASSED BY.
Another Christmas has come and gone. We spend it in a most delightful way. On Christmas Eve we went to Richard and Sydney's house for dinner. She served homemade Mexican food. This has become a much anticipated tradition with us. On Christmas Day Richard, Sydney, Elizabeth and Cheri came to our house for dinner - another tradition which we all eagerly await. David and Cheri like to have non-traditional theme dinners. This year we decided to have a low carbon footprint meal using Maine staples. Our entree was Lobster Savannah in puff pastry shells - delicious. This was complimented by leeks with lemon caper butter with fire roasted tomatoes bits, tiny diced oven roasted potatoes, and a wonderful scallop chowder (receipt contributed by a friend of Cheri). For dessert we had a bouche de noel baked by Cheri and some homemade blueberry ice cream. Cheri even decorated the lovely yule log with mushrooms made from meringue. Everything was local except for the seasonings and much of the food was organic from Tide Mill Farms. It was a meal to remember and I think we all ate too much. There was bouche de noel left oven which we enjoyed the next night with coffee while we watched How the Grinch Stole Christmas, another holiday tradition with our extended family.

2008-11-19T11:02:00.003-05:00

A HOUSE BECOMES A HOME.
The home improvements continue. Now that the weather has turned cold most work is being done inside. It is such a pleasure to see all the changes. Some of them take a bit of adjustment as I still find myself groping about for the dangling chain to turn on the upstairs hall light when I am well aware of the new switch being on the wall. It is also a comforting thought to know all the wiring from the late 1800's has been removed and replaced.
Brent has long since become our favorite and most welcome visitor. There seems to be nothing beyond his capabilities. At the right he is putting the final touches on the studio ceiling light. Now we are not dependent on the sun and some lamps for ease of vision.
Slowly but continuously this house is becoming what we dreamed it could and would eventually be. Thank you Brent.

2008-11-19T10:43:00.004-05:00

THANK YOU GEORGE.
Before the worst president our country has even known leaves the White House (where he never belonged according to popular vote), I want to take a minute and thank him so very kindly for my economic stimulus refund check. You may not be able to read the amount - it is for a whopping dollar and fifteen cents. I am truly indebted to our President. Due to this hefty refund I will be able to buy food, gasoline, and fuel oil. My medical bills can be cleared up and I will have a little ahead for my prescriptions. I am not complaining, but if the refund had been just a little bit more, I would have been able to buy a couple of Christmas gifts for my loved ones. George - you do us proud! I don't even mind that I had to wait till November for the check to arrive.

2008-10-27T13:57:00.002-04:00

THE LAST SCENTS
Last week I noticed a single honeysuckle blossom that still clung to the vine. David had noticed it earlier; it seems it had been hanging on a good long while. Most of the vine is brown and dead, ready to be cut back for the winter. Yet this one blossom struggles to remain atop its lonely bit of green sprig. And - yes, it had retained that lovely scent and reminded me of warm summer nights when the odor of honeysuckle wafted up and into the bedroom window.

2008-10-27T11:19:00.005-04:00

MISS WILMONT STANDS ALONE
Miss Wilmont's Ghost was a pleasant surprise in our garden this year. (See - http://www.sunnygardens.com/garden_plants/eryngium/eryngium_1448.php - for more information on Miss Wilmont's Ghost. The blooms were a wonderful pale lavender color and lasted a very long time. As the blooms faded the plant took on a white-silvery (ghost-like) color and appeared to be a different plant. Then, when it finally died; this plant dried nicely as it remained in the ground. Small seeds can be seen falling from the thistles whenever it is jostled and we are hoping for a dense reseeding.
Apparently this plant obtained its name from Miss Wilmont who, after attending parties, would discretely toss a few seeds from her pocket into her host's garden. Viola - come Spring, the lovely blooms of Miss Wilmont's Ghost would grace the garden of some surprised past party-giver.
Now all the rest of the garden has been tilled over and the iris bulbs have been planted along with the allium bulbs leaving only the fresh nutrient-rich soil exposed along with the shades of - Miss Wilmont's Ghost.

2008-10-15T09:37:00.004-04:00

THE MICRO-GARDENER
It's the end of the season and time to pull up the garden and prepare the soil for the coming Spring. We have had success with our min-farming attempts this year and are quite proud of ourselves since this was the first serious attempt by both David and myself. It was a joy to sit at the table and consume vegetables picked twenty minutes earlier from our backyard. To us, of course, the fresh, clean, organic taste towered above any store bought produce. We also were members of Tide Mill Farms CSA (community supported agriculture) this year. This enabled us to supplement our garden produce with other organic goodies from a local family owned organic farm and dairy. Eating green and local not only tasted great; it gave us a sense of pride that we were minimizing our carbon footprint on the planet.
As you can see by the photos, not all was perfect. These two cucumbers were the total result of six plants. The one bite each that they provided was delicious - they were so tiny. I understand my folly now - I cannot plant cucumbers in the middle of summer; I have to start in the Spring. Next season we will have a bit of experience under our belts and hopefully will do a much better job.

2008-09-28T04:37:00.005-04:00

BEAUTY IN ALL THINGS.
Why can't dandelions be beautiful? I think they can; they are. This Spring the vacant house next door to me had a lawn the was totally uncared for and all of a sudden a million dandelions sprang up. Their golden yellow blossoms were a cheer each morning as I sat on the deck or balcony having my jump-start of coffee. On a particularly breezy day it was wonderful to observe the waves of yellow undulate across the field. It reminded me so much of the wind on the wheat fields on my cousins' farms that I used to visit as a child.
I am so thankful that as I get older my eyes begin to serve me better and I can see and appreciate the wonder and beauty in things that would have previously never captured my notice. Now, as I drive along my country roads it amazes me how many beautiful "weeds" I can spot and appreciate even cruising at 50 MPH.

2008-09-28T04:07:00.004-04:00

A PROJECT COMPLETED - A DREAM COME TRUE.
Yes, the new dooryard is finished, the clover is planted between the times and the tiles are stable enough to park the cars on.
Clover was chosen initially because it comes up fast (in 48 hours actually) and the root system is tight and deep and provides almost instant stability to the tiles. In the Spring the clover will be replaced with creeping thyme which we discovered at kingsbrea Gardens in Canada. The creeping thyme is an excellent choice for spaces between pavers because it also has a tight root system and when crushed by walking or driving on it, it gives off a lovely scent. They crushing does not kill or harm the plant - in fact, it stimulates more growth. The bonus is the tiny, delicate pale purple blooms and the foliage is so dense it feels springy and soft like moss.
Another project completed and only 999 left to go. Slowly but surely - one day and one project at a time.

2008-08-22T10:59:00.008-04:00

PLANS AND DREAMS COMING TRUE.
Finally, the work on the new dooryard was commenced. To the left is a photo of the dirt spot where we used to park our cars. For years we have been dreaming of a specific dooryard - one to our liking which David designed. And - here's David in the red shirt discussing the plans with Ricky Camick who will be moving the earth and leveling the area before the actual tiles are laid. Obviously we were very excited this day because we had waited for such a long time. We had almost resigned ourselves to accepting the fact that the project might not get under way till next Spring.
So, the work continued daily and we excitedly watched the progress. Duncan didn't like the noisy machinery and the vibration of the earth and the house; actually neither did I, but we tolerated it and paid the price for our little dream.
The day arrived when all was completed and it was my turn to plant the clover between the paving tiles and plant the new grass on the sides and edges. The clover came up in 48 hours, but I haven't taken a picture of that yet. The grass is just now starting to sprout - about a week and a half after the seeding. Hopefully before the killing frost we will get a glimpse of the totally finished product. In the Spring we will plant creeping thyme in place of the clover. Not only will the thyme look better, but there will be a lovely scent each time the dooryard is walked on or driven over.
Meanwhile work goes on inside the house by our ever faithful and multi-talented, Brent - That's for another blog entry.

2008-08-17T10:07:00.007-04:00

FRANI GRACES EASTPORT.
July 17th my cousin Frani arrived to experience my new home. Frani came from Ohio via Arizona via Pennsylvania (the rooting point of us all).
This was a different type of visit - more adult oriented, but the activity level remained high as I wanted to share so much of this magic place with such a special guest. We kept very busy most of the time. Fran is now accustomed to the community sense of a small town; she recently moved from the hustle and bustle of the Phoenix-Mesa area of Arizona to the relative sane and sedate atmosphere of Hubbard, Ohio.
She was impressed with our little town on our little island. She was immediately struck by the fact that the curbing in the downtown area was granite, a fact that I had overlook after seeing it everyday for years. Now I am really gung -ho about obtaining granite steps for our front entrance.
Frani (like David and I) is really into photography. A camera accompanied each of us on all of our local adventures and Fran enjoyed documenting the beauty of our little corner of the world. I think all three of us have the ability to see the wonder of a scene or view that another person might easily miss. I guess we are lucky enough to have "the eye". I know I appreciate that gift.
We spent a day on Campobello Island and of course drove out to Head Harbor Lighthouse. Again we arrived at high tide. All the years I have spent here and with all the trips I have made to the lighthouse, I have never managed to arrive at low tide when one can actually walk out to the historic site. Guess that means I have to keep trying.
The visit was special and made me realize how fortunate I am to have loved ones in my life with whom I can share the wonders of my new adopted island home. See "my Space" (link on the right) for more photos.

2008-08-13T08:14:00.011-04:00

Eastport Continues To Draw Company "from away."
Early July brought the arrival of my niece Missy, her husband Kyle, and my two great nephews, Zion and Zachary. They came to enjoy Maine and the 4th of July festivities associated with "Old Home Week." The timing was fortuitous because a 3 and a 6 year old need lots of activity and entertainment. I learned lessons in love, patience, and consideration and developed a great new respect for parents. Having never had full-time children about, I finally got of little taste of that experience. All I can say is God bless good parents; and Missy and Kyle certainly are good parents.
I love my family especially my great nephews and we all had a wonderful time during their visit. Due to space availability Missy and family camped out in our backyard. This in itself was a big thrill because now we had finally become apart of the "old home week" tradition with family overflowing into tents and campers and RV's into the surrounding yard.
We went to Deer Island for a picnic; we flew kites; we went Kayaking at Gleason's Cove; we enjoyed many of the in town festivities, we went to the fireworks display; and we had our own fireworks three nights in a row out back. needless to say Zion and Zach love this. We also attended a small circus and the kids got to experience their first lobstah! Zion was able to kayak alone and managed quite well. Zachary had to ride as a passenger with Dad, but still was thrilled. Zach was the only one who never seemed to wind down or tire out. Of course the explanation for this was simple - Zach can nap-out anywhere; in the car, on the ferry, in the stroller, in Mom;s arms; or in Dad's arms and the activities just progress around him.
When they pulled out of the drive I was very sad and missing them before they were out of side. All of a sudden is was not very important how tired or drained I felt. I had been given the wonderful opportunity to spend some precious time with some of my "little people."

2008-07-31T12:52:00.005-04:00

SUMMER SEASON BEGINS - GUEST & FAMILY ARRIVE.
Although winter in Eastport can be busy, summer is much busier. My postings have been neglected because I have been entertaining family and friends. Summer is the time for company and it affords me the opportunity to do many of the things that have been postponed because "tomorrow is another day". With company in house these adventures must be undertaken or the time slips by.
My cousins JoAnne and Mary from Las Vegas arrived in late June and were fortunate enough to miss the heavy rains the week before. We had a great visit and many enjoyable day trips. They both loved the place. I was concerned that Mary, being a teenager from the bright lights of the big city, would be bored to tears. However, she also fell in love with the place and remarked that she wished she didn't have to leave.
We all took a lot of great pictures and indulged in the fantastic local seafood. Mary had her first Maine lobster and managed quite well.
JoAnne is the shopper in our family, but also managed nicely with the limited availability of local, big city commercial enterprises.
Of course, Duncan was thrilled to see his Aunt JoAnne because she spoils him rotten. Thus began the "season" for us and it will continue through September when we are tentatively expecting our last guest, our contractor and a great friend, Will, from the old days in Florida.
For more photos check "My Space". New pictures will soon be uploaded there.

2008-05-11T12:33:00.004-04:00

HAPPY MOTHERS' DAY
I know it doesn't look like much now, but it is a start. this is the birth of my rose garden which will border the end of the driveway and provide pleasant viewing for us and our neighbors.
When I went out to water the new roses this morning I realized it was Mother's Day and I had planted three bushes. I decided this should be a memorial garden for our mothers and I named the rose bushes - Lois, Dorothy and Mary after my mother and my two dear aunts.
When JoAnne comes to visit at the end of May, I will give her the opportunity to pick out a rose bush and we will plant it in memory of another mother, my loving cousin and JoAnne's mom, Shirley.
Check this blog later in the summer and see how the girls are blooming.

2008-05-11T09:57:00.005-04:00

BACK TO PAINTING
As I have already explained, I have no illusions of grandeur concerning what I paint or any of my creative pursuits. It is just something I enjoy. It relaxes me; It makes me happy; it gives me a sense of accomplishment.
So - Here I am posting my latest three endeavors. I hope you enjoy them. I find myself beginning to be more thoughtful and focused while painting than I was when I first started. Is this good? Or - am I beginning to inhibit myself subconsciously?
Oh well, it's growth; it's change. Nothing can stay the same; so, I say go with the flow and see what happens.

2008-05-11T06:51:00.003-04:00

GOTTA MISS FRIENDS.
Yes, I truly am happy the Florida phase of my life is over. I believe that state is in decline already and has lesser days to come. But - people are a whole different concept. It was very difficult seeing beloved friends once again and not really knowing the next time I would be able to have the pleasure of their company. I was so fortunate to learn early in life that acquaintances are not friends and that true friends are the only treasures worth having in this life. I have been blessed with loving, caring, reliable, and dependent friends. I also believe ""like brings like" and do try to be to others the type of friend I would like to have. Guess what? It works.
I was so happy to leave a piece of my old life with Bev. She liked my chair and a half pull out sleeper, so I had Will take it over to her office. As you can see, it looks lovely there and fits right in. Bev was happy because it helped dress up her new more spacious office and it created a place for her late flight personnel to have a little nap before a long drive home. Bev is just one of the many I will miss and long for - and - you all know just exactly who you are. Unfortunately not all of my Florida pictures came out well . I would have liked to post more. Oh well, it gave me an excuse to purchase a new camera which is now on it's way. I will also take the time to fish through my older photos and find some good "friends" pictures to post.

2008-05-06T08:44:00.003-04:00

DING! DONG! THE HOUSE IS GONE.
Just got back from a necessary trip to Florida to sign papers for the closing of the house sale. Hooray! I am finally totally free of the sunshine state. It is such a shame that in just 30 years Florida could change from a paradise to the crime ridden, overpopulated, polluted, cost prohibitive pit it has become. I am desperately trying to be thankful for having had the pleasure of experiencing it as it once was, should be, and never can be again. Man can be so hateful and cruel to nature. The upside is "man pays" - Nature ALWAYS wins and will outlast all mankind.
Enough of that I am past my Florida phase and am snuggled into the beautiful hidden-away parts of Maine where I should be; where I want to be. Everyday is a celebration of life and nature.

2008-04-19T07:05:00.005-04:00

A Good Day.
Yesterday was a good day. The weather was great and we spent a lot of time out of doors. Duncan loved it because for a while the doors remained wide open - just like in summer. Duncan has the impression that the deck, balcony, and the property are simply extensions of the house - his living space; his territory.
I received the good news that my house has definitely sold in Florida and the signing date is set. Now to find a reasonable air fare. It most certainly was a GOOD day and one I must hold for future reference when there comes a time when things might not seem so wonderful.
My new art supplies arrived From Blick Studio. I was thrilled as the order included my new Navajo easel. It had to be assembled - David did this for me as I am still allowed to play the "broken are" card for a while; I celebrated in the late afternoon by painting two more pictures. Painting - it makes me feel good and puts my mind in another place for a while - and - it's a nice place!

2008-04-18T21:45:00.003-04:00

Giant Japanese Lantern.
This is the greenhouse at night with the light on. It really does look like a big Japanese lantern.
Since we have erected the portable greenhouse we have noticed many people on their walks coming down our driveway to see just what the heck it is. I am sure the walkers tonight and in the pre-dawn morning will have something to stop them in their tracks and baffle them just a bit.
I got many plants started today - lupine, poppies, gladioli, - tomorrow David is going to give his cactus, which survived the Maine winter outside, a jump-start in the greenhouse also.
Monday we have to drive to Machais to get Duncan's meds refilled and I am going to find some tomato plants or seeds - that will be the next hot house inductee.

2008-04-17T21:06:00.004-04:00

Jump-Starting Spring.
The new portable greenhouse arrived a few days ago and although we both were feeling punk, David with his nasty cold and me with my two broken arms, we had to pop it up immediately. We love it and can't wait to get the light inside so it will look more "spacey" at night - kind of like a huge Japanese lantern.
We stopped by the storage shed today after lunch at The New Friendly Restaurant and brought in the shelving for the plants some of which have already been started in the house. Tomorrow I plan to get into gardening in my greenhouse. I am determined to have "real" fresh home grown tomatoes all summer this year and not have to consume those commercial varieties that always taste like wet cardboard. My mouth is waterinng already thinking of a nice ripe acid-y tomato just like from my cousins' farms.

2008-04-17T20:52:00.003-04:00

Carpeted Stairs.
David recently finished carpeting the stairs. this is a boon for our Dalmatian, Duncan, who now has more security and traction managing the climb and descent. His new found confidence has him bounding up and down like a dog five years younger.
We were also lucky enough to find some carpeting in Bangor that was just a plain gray and goes well with our white and gray interior. We were kind of distressed when all we could find were Victorian-type floral patterns. This serves the need and pleases the eye. We are all pleased - David, Duncan and me.

2008-04-17T17:26:00.004-04:00

New Direction For Energy Flow.
About a week ago I began having art lessons from Cheri, my beloved Eastport artist friend - well, actually more like extended family. Anyway I am lucky as I have no talent or preconceived incorrect notions. She says this is good because I don't have to begin by unlearning. Cheri says she can teach anybody to paint and now I believe her. Oh, I don't fancy myself as a "grandpa Moses" or anything like that - but I am having a really good time; enjoying myself; and I believe actually learning something. If nothing else it will be good exercise for my brain and perhaps help keep me young at heart.

2008-04-07T08:47:00.003-04:00

SNOW'S DONE - NO SQUIRRELS YET.
Yesterday after the subtle sunrise experience, the day bloomed into a brilliant early,but perhaps falsely misleading, Spring. The temperature struggled toward 50 degrees and the sun came out in full radiance. It was a perfect day for a walk in the woods at Shackford Head. So the three of us trundled off and had a nice short hike among the pines. Duncan was, of course, on the alert. He was well aware of the creatures who had passed in the night leaving their personal scents and signals about and he was as busy as a blind man reading braille.
The ground was wet and soft, but not muddy. The breeze was gentle, but not chilling, and even out poor humanoid olfactory equipment could pick up the scent of green and new growth. It was a very well spent hour and set the stage for a quiet evening at home. We were all impressed; although I think Duncan was disappointed that the squirrels were not awake yet and he had no one to scold.

2008-04-07T08:37:00.002-04:00

JUST AS WONDERFUL.
Sometimes the sunrises here are a little more on the subtle side, although no less beautiful. There is a serene calmness that washes over you as you are mesmerized by the slowly evolving light show present free of charge by Mother Nature to all who would open their eyes.
I awoke at 5:45 AM and realized I could not return to slumber land. Duncan was awake also and ready to greet the day. David was still snoring. Duncan and I went to the Waco for a hot cup of coffee and headed onto the Breakwater where I watched the subtle lightening of the Eastern skies and Duncan watched the gulls swooping about and gliding effortlessly on the cool morning currents. What a wonderful way to center yourself.

2008-04-04T11:07:00.003-04:00

HOW TO START THE DAY.
This morning I could have closed my eyes and imagined I was in the South of France in a small family-owned eating establishment. The aroma of apples, raisins, rum and hot oil wafted through our kitchen; the sunrise was spectacular; it was a perfect day to try out a new receipt David found in an old cookbook he gleaned from a Calais book Shop the other day. I seem to be blessed with the ability to cook - is this an art form? I tackled the Beignets de Fruits with confidence. They came out perfectly and mentally transported me off to the Cafe Du Monde in the French Quarter of New Orleans where I first tasted those heavenly light and powdery beignets. Ooh, la la! David and I were tempted to call Cheri and have her join us until we looked at the clock and decided that 7:00 AM might not be the best time to roust her from slumber. Besides, we now have a little masterpiece to present at one of our summer deck breakfasts.

2008-04-04T10:36:00.004-04:00

RETURN TO TRADITION.
What could be better than Sunday morning breakfast at The Blue Iris and a long leisurely chat with Sid and Hilda, owners and operators who always have time for their patrons. Actually their patrons are treated more like family or good friends and are always greeted enthusiastically. They certainly do feel like "family" to me, in the Hawaiian sense of the word. This has been a summer tradition for me for quite a few years. The winter hiatus is over,The Blue Iris is open again, and tradition can continue.
The view from their dining room or deck of Friar Roads, Lubec, and Campobello Island, and the good conversation (Eastport chat-style) make the wonderful food all the more enjoyable.
So, what could top this? Perhaps an afternoon poetry reading at the EAC (Eastport Art Center). David, Cheri and I attended along with a good number of our neighbors and friends. The reading was The Ballade of Reading Goal by Oscar Wilde. The reading also included four of Wilde's other poems including one that was a tribute to his beloved sister who died at age twelve - this one was a tear-jerker and even the reader was visibly touched.
This was the first poetry reading I have attended in my 61 years and I realized what I have missed and how much more I could be enjoying poetry given the proper exposure. Yes, yes - Eastport is the place to be.

2008-04-03T09:21:00.003-04:00

SQUARE DANCING? NO, IT'S CALLED CONTRA-DANCING.
It's easy. It's fun. Last Saturday I conned my good friend, Cheri, into accompanying me to the Contra-dance at the Eastport Art Center; since David graciously declined and I wasn't quite ready to debut solo. Cheri agreed and off we went after a short cocktail at home to temper the nerves. There was no need. We arrived to a group of 5 or 6 friends and neighbors wondering where everybody was. Linda Sisson was there - sort of mistress of the affair; Lauren Simpson was there - caller and impromptu dance instructor for us novices; the band was there, Keltic Schmeltic - local group and very good; and best of all, the food was there. There were lots and lots of home prepared goodies all of the dessert category. We would need the sugar for energy and the bottled water for re-hydration. Gradually, in Moose Island tradition, folks began to arrive in groups on one, three and many to hardy "Heys" and Welcomes" from those of us already present.
Watching once dance was all it took. I danced every one after that except the waltz which I need to polish up - waltzing is now a pleasant memory for me - bringing it back couldn't hurt. It's a gentle and kind dance and a perfect slow-down rest break from a Contra-dance.
I took a few pictures before I became one of the group. The one to the left is of a Canadian couple Sashaying down line. They were first-timers too; I was not alone and did not stick out like a sore thumb. Since this couple was from Canada, we were actually engaged in an international social event here at the end of the world in a paradise called Eastport.
At 9:30 PM the band took a break and promised to return for two more Contra-dances. I called it a night - I will have to work up to this new level of energetic exercise.
But - I did love it and I shall dance another day!

2008-03-23T14:56:00.003-04:00

READY OR NOT - HERE WE COME!
The first day of Spring has come and gone - Winter must pull up her dusty skirts and exit the stage. My Crocuses tell me so. They actually popped their little heads out over a week ago and stood firm against another snowstorm. They remain hale and hardy and are calling to the daffodils which have begun to answer by sending tiny shoots out the check the weather.
I am boosting about having the first crocuses in Eastport this year and so far, nobody has disputed my claim.
I cannot wait to start planting for the Summer.

2008-03-22T22:17:00.004-04:00

IS IT A MIRACLE?
Nope, it's just Good Friday in Eastport with the glorious sun battling the wondrous clouds and trying to make a grand entrance. In this very special place I have chosen to be my home beauty like this is quite commonplace. You must always be alert and walk about with your eyes open to receive and to see. My daily dog walks with Duncan are constant opportunities to "discover" new sights.
I think perhaps it is good that Eastport is hidden away here at the end of the world so the world cannot ravage and spoil it. I will be forever grateful to David for giving me this little bit of Heaven. It is so much like my beloved Hawaii without the commercialization and the tourists.

2008-03-18T21:18:00.003-04:00

TIME PASSES - THINGS CHANGE.
So much time has passed since I last made an entry. I could not believe this blog has been idle since 2006 - no more!
So many wonderful things have happened in my life. Oh, there were hurdles too, but they were all low enough to clear successfully. I put the house up for sale and I escaped the horrors of South Florida. I moved permanently to Eastport, Maine. Florida had become an intolerable stress factor - too much crime, too many insincere and rude people, too many expenses, insurance fees and property taxes totally out of control. Yet - still they came in droves from the North to the wonderful "SUNSHINE STATE" which only added to the too many people problem. Why can't people understand resources in any area are fixed and limited. You cannot put a quart in a pint container - ever! Well, let them have Florida; I joyfully give up my space which I am sure by now is already occupied by 20 new immigrants.
I am settled in Maine and have almost completed my first winter here. What a pleasure. After so many years in a sub-tropical climate I totally forgot how I missed the changing of the seasons. There are so many wonderful, simple pleasures with which to indulge myself in my newly adopted hometown. Who would have ever imagined the fun of going outside in the early frigid, morning in my pj's to feed the seagulls? Winter is now two thirds past and my bird friends have bonded with me. They home in immediately when I blow my whistle and if I am a bit late on the feeding schedule, they fly about the upper balcony and scold me. I have even seen them watching me through the kitchen window preparing their daily bread crumbs. What a joy my life has become. I must take care to appreciate every minute of it.

2006-12-28T20:02:00.000-05:00

Bach in the Basement.
I know, I know; this is not much of a picture. But, you realize, "---------a thousand words." I look at this photo and I long to be in Maine at the bottom of these stairs, doing laundry while listening to classical music on CNN from Canada. There is a convenient radio with good sound on the drainpipe. It is always on the same station and just a push of the buttom creates a sereen atmosphere. There are usually wonderful, warm sents of home-cooking drifting down the stair well and Duncan's little tonails are tapping on the plank floors above me. It is a marvelous place to be and I don't mean 'the basement'; although there is a nice wiew of the water from down there.
It makes me ponder the Buddist ideal of being able to find true joy in the everyday and the mundane - like laundry. It also makes me feel a bit satisfied, thinking that I may be attaining some level of this happiness, this joy.

2006-10-17T09:05:00.000-04:00

It's not just a movie to me anymore.
As I look off to the East from the studio balcony early in the morning (3:50 A.M.), this is the sight that greets me. Who would not be amazed and awed. It is sight that instills a feeling in your bones to arise early every morning so you do not miss this splendor. It also makes me feel very fortunate for all beautiful sights I have seen in my lifetime. Life has been good to me.
Since the island seen in the photo is Campobello Island, this is truly "Sunrise at Campobello".
I cannot wait to make Eastport, Maine my home and not just an anual holiday spot.

2006-09-19T18:35:00.000-04:00

Last Lupine of the season.
I haven't been blogging for a while because I was busy and lazy. I had my usual annual 30 holiday in Maine and have returned to Flordia. I thought I would have a lot of free time to blog in Maine, but I could not connect to my blog site.
The trip to Eastport was postponed a month this year. It was also a bit saddened by my Mother's sudden medical problems and hospitalization. The trip up North included a detour to Pennsylvania to visist my Mom who was quite ill when we arrived and only 3 hours home from the hospital. She showed so much improvement in the few days I was there, we finally felt assured enough to continue our travels.
I was feeling as though I had missed something arriving later in the season this time. I love the lupines. They are so beautiful and sometimes cover an entire field with their lovely blue-lavender hue. My spirits were soon to be lifted. On our first walk with Duncan, our ornamental Dalmatian, I was surprised to see this single lonely lupime at the edge of a field. It brought a smile to my face and a smug, selfish feeling that the last blossom of the year had awaited my arrival. What a wonderful day.

2006-08-02T19:04:00.000-04:00

Today I am angry. I cannot understand what the world is coming to or where we are going. But, that is not why I am angry. A few days agoI turned on the news to catch up while I was getting ready for work. Now we all are aware that women and children and other innocents are being killed everyday by us in Iraq. And the Iraqis are killing our soldiers who are young men and women who should be in college, at home, going to football games, or taking a date to the movies.
Of course, the residents in the Holy Land are determined to eliminate each other for reasons nobody can really understand.
I expected to see news regarding these horrors that are happening in our world. However, the two top stories were local and quite silly. One item was about a young girl who was ill on an incoming plane from South America. The communications were fouled up and the Homeland Security and a carrivan of ambulances and police cars were at Miami Airport to meet the plane. The patient in question had a stomach ache and a touch of diarrhea and had been feeling upset the entire day before her flight home.
The second story was about a man who found properly packaged dynamite sticks while cleaning up his property. Instead for just removing the dynamite, the local authorities saw fit to evacuate and close the roads to a ten block area in Miami.
All of this unnesessary expense and silliness and not a word about the Americans who were killed that day. Where are our hearts? Where are our minds? Does anyone really care? It seems as long as the battle is not outside our own front door, we are rendered immune.

2006-06-20T20:30:00.000-04:00

Another new Car
Well this one is new to us. David just got rid of the Blue Bronco and bought this beauty. It is a Ford Explorer Sport. It is used, but purchased in Eastport where everyone knows everyone else and people don't rip you off. It was hard for David to say Good-bye to the Bronco as there was a heavy attachment there. However, it was beginning to rust and a really good deal popped up. So here we are. How Lucky - two new cars in two years. I can't wait to get to Maine and drive the new one. I love it already just from the pictures.

2006-06-20T11:10:00.000-04:00

New Cars - Last October we bought a new car in Florida. The car was actually for Duncan and as you can see in one of the photos, he does approve. Riding back and forth between Maine and Florida in the old Ford Focus wagon was getting a bit cramped for him due to the little extras we seemd to always have to inculde.
The New Escape gives him more room and a bit of a higher perch so he doesn't miss a thing. This August will be his first road trip in the new car and we are both anxiously awaiting that date.

2006-05-01T20:59:00.000-04:00

Spring.
Here in south Florida Spring has been wonderful. Very cool, low humidity nights and hot sunny days with a nice breeze. I think it is the wind that has kept our temperatures down this year.
I was organizing my photos when I came across the one I posted of wild daisys in Eastport. The picture lifts me and lightens my mood.
I see from my last entry that it has not been a month since I blogged. I think it will be my goal to post a MINIMUM of once a month.
I noticed the rest of my blogging family are really getting into it also. I agree with the statement that blogging is positive therapy and it is cheap too. It only cost your time.
I enjoy reading all the other blogs as it makes me feel part of the picture even though I may be a thousand miles away.
Frani has become serious about the move back East and I have become serious about my move to the Northeast. Simpler times, gentler people, and a much slower pace. Ft. Lauderdale has become a jungle for the fast and furious. I do appreciate the fact and will always remember it - that - I was lucky enough to discoved Ft. Lauderdale when it was relatively unknown over thirty years ago. The beauty of how it was will always be in my mind though the conditions can never be repeated.
I have had a lot of luck in my life. I visited Kaua'i when it was unknow and undiscovered by the masses. I toured the Grand Caynon may times before the horrid nesessary restrictions and fees caused by the throngs who have no respect for the Ina (land). Because of Fran living in Arizona, I also got to enjoy many of it's delights before civilization started trashing nature. I guess it cannot actually be prevented as there just are too many people.
My ramblings are not to bring anybody down. These are just my views, my feelings. The positive thing here is my memories and they certainly are terrific.

2006-04-10T15:50:00.000-04:00

Changing a threat.
I threatened B-bomb to post more of her baby pictures if she didn't quit nagging me. well, she has not nagged me, but I decided to post some more pics of her anyway. I was looking through my old photos and reliving a lot of old memories of good family times and I could not resist sharing. Besides - she is so darn cute.
Joanne is getting ready to go to Wyoming to finish off her house and sell it. I am sad because I won't have a close friend and loving family member two doors away. But - I am happy for her as she seems to be in the frame of mind to move forward toward better things even though she knows there will be boulders in the road to stumble over.
Also David is preparing for his departure to the Nothern residence, so, Duncan and I will hold the Southern fort alone for a while. Duncan and I will be anxiously be counting the days till we hit the road for Maine too!
The older I get the more I miss the closeness of my large family. Sadly we learn too little and too late.

2006-04-04T14:52:00.000-04:00

Special post for B-bomb.
You know who you are. You keep nagging me about not posting. I have noticed nothing new on your site for a while now.
You wanted more postings, great. Here's a picture of you and me at your Grandmother's house in O.C.
Now smile and quite bugging me or I will post all your baby pictures.
Love you!

2006-04-04T14:43:00.000-04:00

Spring in Florida.
Emma and Fran are mentioning spring and the weather changes on their blogs - Maine and Arizona respectively. It made me think that we do have subtle changes of season here in South Florida.
While walking Duncan I saw that my neighbors water lilies were in bloom. I had to return home and get the camera. You see the results, a beautiful blossom.
Strangely enough, the crunching of dry leaves underfoot is a seasonal sign here also. The difference is we seem to experience this in Spring rather than Fall. I assume it is the trees droping their sparse winter greens for their full and more vibrant summer greens.
Temperatures are still wonderful and comfortable here - not too hot in the daytime with a bit of a breeze and still nice and cool at night - great for sleeping.

2006-03-20T16:06:00.000-05:00

Tomorrow is the first day of Spring and, supposedly, a time for new beginnings. I feel it is a new beginning for me as I think I have finally defeated this cold or flu or whatever kind of respiratory infection I had dragging me down.
It is so nice to feel "normal" and "useful" again after being so long in the fog.
I guess we never really appreciate our good health and good fortune till we are forced to experience the negative. Hello Spring!

2006-03-05T07:30:00.000-05:00

Conspiracy of the Cold.
I am so angry as I have just wasted a week. Plus I feel like I have been tossed from a moving train. I still don't feel all that great, but I am slowly trying to function on the normal side of life.
I am the kind of person whose body does not deal well with a simple cold. I become so ill I end up flat in bed and begin to imagine it will soon be time for me to board the boat to cross the River Styx.
I am angry because most places of employment harass or shame you into coming to work sick. "Oh, it's only a cold." This is especially shameful in hospitals where I work. Peers come in hacking and sneezing and soon the germs run the entire gamet of the place. The poor patients are the worse to suffer. I cannot imagine trying to recover from major surgery and fighting a cold given to you by a healthcare worker at the same time.
My biggest outburst of anger is directed toward the pharmaceutical companines who tight-fistedly dominate the healthcare field.
When I was in nursing school I read an interesting article that claimed there may very well be a cure for the common cold and the big drug companies purchased the patent and sealed it away. First I thought it was humerous. However, here's a thought. Go into a large chain drug store with a pad and pen and begin writting down every item that would not be on the shelves if there were no colds. I assure you that your fingers will cramp from writting before you have finished checking only two aisles.
The cold medications that are on those shelves do not work - not one of them. Also, some studies say that taking over the counter medications only prolong the duration of the cold.
Should I be angry ? Yes. And so should you. Science can conjure up a baby according to somebody's itemized specifications, yet we can not conquer the common cold. Come on, Folks.

2006-02-24T08:51:00.000-05:00

Along came Fran.
Fran was next to join the blogging tribe. I still refer to her as Frani although I don't think she likes it. I feel it sounds homey and affectionate.
She is the cousin representing the Southwest. In the 1970's we all started to fan out from Pennsylvania. I ended up in Florida and Frani put her new roots down in Mesa, Arizona. She loves the that section of the country and inticed me to open myself to the beauty of it also. We share many wonderful memories of hiking, photographing and antique-ing out there. Somehow we adjusted to the triple digit temperatures and dug right into the history and the multi-cultural elements of the area.
Frani's blog has a link from my site. Her photos of Arizona are strikingly impressive. You should look.
I think Frani and I grew to be the closest of the cousins since our relationship started in high school. We were fortunate enough to share those wild and rowdy teenage misadventures. Sometime we both are amazed that we are still alive!

2006-02-22T21:36:00.000-05:00

The blogging family grows.
My dear cousin, Joanne was next to get the blog-bug. She also loves photography and has quite an eye for it. Hers is another site you can link to from mine. She is the "Purple Lover". Some of her pictures knock me out.
In my family for some strange reason many of the cousins have become closer than siblings over the years. We are thick as thieves and bonded by love, respect and unfortunately a little dysfunction. But we deal with it and move on always trying to support and console each other even if it is long distance. Thank heavens for the internet and the cell phone.
This is a photo of Joanne and her baby, Jewel. Jewel is a beautiful German Shepard with a very unique personality all her own. She is the Alpha Dog.

2006-02-22T21:15:00.000-05:00

Along the blogging trail.
Next David came on to the blogging scene. Of course, I was always checking out his postings. He is an Artist who works in photography and so much more. His pictures are always interesting to see.
Then I became drawn into this new activity. I also like to take and share photos and the blog seemed like a good place to accomplish this. Naturally I told my family and friends and the ball continued to roll and grow.
David's site is a link on my blog. If you like unusual photography, check it out.
This is a picture of David taken on our winter holiday to Pennsylvania.

2006-02-22T19:33:00.000-05:00

Well - The blogging started with my recent and good friend, Emma. She got into it and David and I were hooked on reading her entries as she is such a good writer.
Here's Emma relaxing before the annual traditional Christmas dinner at Water Street. She has a quiet beauty that I have seen emerging and growing continually since I first met her. The moment I greeted her and gave her a hug, I could feel the "aloha" and knew I would love her and she would become part of our "ohana" which she certainly has.
Emma, this Blue Martini is for you!

2006-02-14T15:16:00.000-05:00

Whiteout in Eastport.
We have been having cold weather here in South Florida. It is especially nice at night for sleeping. The days are like early Autum up North and very uplifting and pleasant. Last night the temperatures dropped to 46 degrees - that's cold for us Southerns; Tonight it might dip into the 30's. I was complaining a little until I read my friend, Emma's blog post regarding the blizzard in Eastport. Now, I admit, I feel a little smug - We have No Snow.
I guess winter is one of the things I do still appreciate about my fast fading little city.
Today we voted for mayor; I voted for a new one. The last current mayor has spent twenty years getting us to where we are and it is not very pretty. Can we be saved? We shall see.

2006-02-07T10:58:00.000-05:00

Interesting People.
One of my hobbies is photography in a purely amateur sense. I particularily enjoy taking photos of anyone, especially strangers, who are unaware of being photographed. There are so many interesting faces out there. How few of us really look and see them? I find these faces at their purest and most engaging when they are totally oblivious to the camera.
This lovely woman was at a Fourth of July public celebration in a small Maine town. I have no idea who she is or what stories form her history, but I know that history is there in her face. Look at her face and what do you see? I see a healthy, happy woman who is having a good time. But - look at the eyes. There is something there, a concerned, a lightly thoughtful look. It seems each time I really look at these photos I see a little more. Perhaps the reason I preceive them differently is because I am different every time I view them. We are all in flux.

2006-01-28T10:47:00.000-05:00

Of course there had to be another photo of my best buddy, Duncan. Here he is at the top of his world at Shackfordhead in Maine, Prince of all he observes.
Finally I am onto DSL. It arrived yesterday morning and David had it up and running by afternoon. On glitch was getting rid of Dr. Watson Debugger which was fouling up my computer. After, a lot of time, many phone calls, and shelling out $199.00 for (free?) 24/7 computer help; Dr Watson has been put to rest - permanently, I hope.
This morning David, JoAnne and I walked down the street to a local neighborhood yard sale. I only bought a book, but it was pleasant just looking and seeing the neighbors. The experience reminded me a little of an Eastport yard sale. Everyone was friendly and chatty. The prices were really yard sale prices. It was for a very good cause, River of Grass. There was free coffee, bagels, and pasteries for the browsers. For just one brief moment I actually forgot I was in overdone, over-populated Ft. Lauderdale. What a nice way to start a beautiful, sunny Saturday off work.

2006-01-24T14:25:00.000-05:00

24 Jan. 2006
How to begin? I guess I will just start. Here is a recent picture of me and ny precious Dalmatian, Duncan, who is a well pampered little prince. The photo was taken in one of my favorite places in Maine called Reversing Falls.
I am a 59 year old nurse living in Florida and working at a prestigeous local hospital. My hobbies include photography, cooking and travel. I spend as much time as possible in Maine in a very small, quaint and friendly town.
A few of my friends have blogs and I have become interested in reading them. Never did I imagine I would spend time on creating my own. But, after thinking about it a while, I decided I would give it a shot and use it as my journal. In this blog I will include "bits of me", how I think, what I feel, and things I ponder. so now I have started and we shall see how it goes.