Busy? We all are; there is no such thing as lazy days of summer here, quite the opposite, roads are busy, stores are busy, the dump, our homes, and consequently our minds too are busy, so while we do not the luxury of turning it all off. We can focus on looking outward on the serene waters, upward into the building, waning and drifting clouds, or around us, among the wildflowers and animal life, for a little quieting. The Rabbit-foot Clover is all along the roads enjoying the worst soil, thriving, Bird Vetch still lush in its purple splendor, Common Mullein reaching high beyond their furry leaved base, Black-eyed Coneflowers, Asters, Thistles and Milkweed jutting through the drifting tall grasses, delighting finches, juncos and varieties of butterflies. Warmer temperatures have also brought the hum of cicadas and, if you have not treated your lawns, Nature’s light show brought to us by the firefly each evening, bringing us back to childhood nights. Each of these things shows us that time is moving forward, so, a new week is upon us, and it is as expected a busy one.

I hope that many of you were able to attend Kevin Johnson’s Monday night talk Boothbay Now and Then made possible by the Southport Historical Society. They will bring Debbie Nicholas, Passamaquoddy Master Basket Maker to Town Hall on Saturday, July 25. There are some openings for her two demonstrations, session 1 is 10:30, session 2, 1:30. To sign up, e-mail your name, telephone number and request to hendrickshillmuseum@gmail.com

If you are unable to attend that event you should try to visit the museum which is now open Tuesday, Thursday, and Saturday from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. It is free to tour the Cameron home and the boathouse, donations are appreciated.

Next stop, Southport Memorial Library, the heart and hub of activity and information all year round. Located at 1032 Hendricks Hill Road, and now with summer hours: Tuesday, 9-4, 6-8 Wednesday 9-4, Thursday 9-4, 6-8, and Saturday 9-4. You can get your books, DVDs, museum passes, visit the Rachel Carson Garden see the current art show, a retrospective of Mary Jo Rines incredibly beautiful artwork, and admire the butterfly collection. On Tuesday and Thursday from 10 a.m. on, all are welcome to the coffee table for a chat, and a treat, check their Facebook page for pictures of previous treats, one might tempt you to visit. On Wednesday, July 15, at 10 a.m. come for Storytime, a shared book, craft and small snack, a fun hour for the little ones in your life. Next week Wednesday, the 22nd, beginning at 11 a.m., right after Storytime, the library is taking the opportunity to say thank you to all their patrons with a Southport Community picnic. Burgers, dogs, cake, snacks and beverages, grilled by Grill Master Gerry Gamage assisted by the Library Aides, and attended by neighbors and friends. Circle that date on your calendar it is such a nice hometown event.

Wednesday, July 15, beginning at 5:30 p.m. on the lawn of the Newagen Seaside Inn, you can relive some of the best music, a Soul/Motown review with Higher Ground & Julia Gagnon. Get swept away by the lyrics, rhythm and the view. Tickets are available and 100% of ticket sales go towards supporting Southport Island Association Community Initiatives, treat yourself and give back to the community at the same time.

Speaking of giving back, Southport Island Treasures will be hosting a Giant Community Yard Sale on Saturday, July 18 from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Money collected for table rental goes to the library, while you get to hunt for treasures, old or new, find a great deal, make room for that perfect something, a benefit to all. The Shop is located at 608 Hendricks Hill Road, regular hours are Monday-Saturday 10-4. You can call 207-350-5505 for other information. 

Join the Southport General Store and Barn on Saturday, July 18, from 10 a.m. to noon for a Fused Glass Sun Catcher Workshop with Kathy Faass. Create a fabulous sun catcher during the workshop as Kathy teaches you how to use different techniques based on your design. The class is beginner friendly, perfect for all skill levels. Kids are welcome when accompanied by an adult. Glass will be fired in the instructor’s kiln and ready for pickup one week after class. Space is limited, so reserve your spot online today southportgeneralstore.com 

If by Sunday you feel the need for reflection, a boost in faith, remember that Southport’s United Methodist has a new pastor, Jim Mello, and a new worship time of 9 a.m. You can also choose All Saints by-the-Sea, an Episcopal summer chapel, on the East side of the island. A Place of Prayer for all People, visitors of all faiths are welcome with services at 8 a.m. and 10 a.m.

Somehow my routine is off with my little house filled to capacity and beyond, the column was written between cooking and trying to keep the clutter down, it feels a bit disjointed to me, but I hope it gives you the information you need. A plunge into the water will follow pushing send. Just a reminder that if you have news, or an event you would like included, email me, or drop a note in the mailbox at the General Store.

Be kind, show grace and May Peace Be With You All.