We had some pretty big doings here on the island last week.

Our volunteer fire department, along with Boothbay and Boothbay Harbor, planned and set up an emergency “mutual aid” practice focusing on the unthinkable prospects of a fire at the Hodgdon Yacht (formerly Boothbay Region Boatyard) facility at the end of Ebenecook Road. This was a large project, coordinating three departments, equipment and many firefighting personnel. Traffic was diverted and roads were blocked. Ebenecook Road, however, became a flurry of activity.

As I walked toward the boatyard, dodging vehicles, overstepping waterlines, trying to not get in the way, it occurred to me that Ramona Gaudette, who lives on the road, just might be thinking that the end of the world had finally arrived!

Boothbay Harbor's big ladder truck rumbled by her house with other fire equipment ahead and behind. Water line and pumpers positioned near her door yard and veteran firefighters streamed by attending to various assigned activities.

“Poor Ramona,” I thought. I hope someone told her about all this. She might try to get out to the market and will need to head for the dock and take the skiff over town. There's no way out!

But, as I approached her house, a wonderful traditional New England structure older than us both, combined, I saw her standing on her deck sipping a cup of tea far from overwhelmed.

“Isn't this wonderful,” she said as she greeted me. “These boys sure know what they're doing, don't they? How nice to see you."

“Stevie told me this was going to happen,” she said. “He and the family have taken off during school break with Maddie. She's driving now, you know. My, how time flies.”

“Would you like a cup of tea? I do so enjoy your articles in the paper. I'm fine. Thank you for stopping in.”

Ramona. Pleased for the activity.