I was going to write about the intricacies of the Queen Anne’s lace blooms that have withstood droughts grasp, the flutter of the poplar leaves playing in the breezes that make the humidity more bearable, and the way a bank of fog can envelope the coastline in seconds, leaving us all surrounded in a misty veil with only minds images to bring forth what we know is across the water, but instead the day took a twist and I was consumed with the care of a trusted, old companion cat, sadly this was his last day, so all the other writing will need to wait. It is well into the night and my heart is broken.

There is an emptiness in the house despite ongoing visitors, but a focus on the column and community events will help though it does not seem quite right without having the watchful eye of Jack who would normally be supervising from atop the printer.

This week we will begin with the past week. The Southport Memorial Library would like to take a moment to thank all that donated and helped with the Annual Book and Bake Sale, it was a big success. The proceeds go directly to the library, hence back into books and events that benefit the community year round.

With luck many of you might have gone to the screening of “A Sense of Wonder,” the biographical drama which captured the essence of Rachel Carson, was filmed here on the island in 1967-1968, and whose restoration was made possible by joint efforts of the library and the Southport Historical Society. If you were not able to go, you can still get a wonderful glimpse into Southport history by visiting the Hendricks Head Museum which is open Thursday, Thursday, and Saturday from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. Admission is free. 

The library continues to offer Storytime on Wednesdays at 10 a.m. This program is geared to young children and includes a shared book, a related craft/art activity and a small snack. It is held in the Children’s Room, which houses age appropriate books and a plethora of dramatic play items, a perfect way to spend some family time. On Tuesdays and Thursdays around 10 a.m., you can enjoy time with the Coffee Table Group, all are welcome for free coffee or tea and a sweet treat, it is never dull, a nice beginning to a day. The library is also preparing for Mystery Making Mayhem, Thursday Aug. 13, 6:30 p.m., when four authors will get together to create a mystery on the spot. There will be a murder, and audience participation. The panel speakers, Matt Cost, Allison Keeton, Anne Brittling Oleson and Kate Flora, will create the mystery from beginning to end right before your eyes and share insights into their process.

If you are looking for entertainment, remember the final SIA Musicfest event. This, one will feature ’90s hits with Champagne Casanova. They are known for putting on a great show and connecting with the audience, so get ready to relive that time in music, maybe Nirvana, Pearl Jam, Tupac, Notorious B.I.G., or perhaps some Spice Girls or Britney Spears; those 10 years had it all. Pull out your casual, anti-establishment clothing choices, baggy jeans, flannel, and some questionable footwear, dance with abandon, or sing along from your lawn chair, which you should bring to the Newagen Seaside Inn on Wednesday, Aug. 12 at 5:30 p.m. Check the SIA website for ticket availability. 

Wednesday, Aug. 12, 10 a.m. to noon, also provides opportunity for you to create your own fused glass trivet in a fun, hands-on workshop at the Barn. Instructor Kathy Faass, an artist, designer, and educator with more than 35 years of experience, will guide you through the basics of glass fusion, including how to safely cut and arrange glass to create a colorful, functional trivet for hot dishes. No prior glass experience is needed. Kathy’s classes are always engaging, welcoming, and full of creative inspiration. Your finished piece will be fired in her kiln and ready for pickup one week after class. Children accompanied by an adult are welcome. Also, at the Barn, on Saturday the 15th, 10 a.m. to noon, craft an adorable needle-felted sea creature or two. You can get more information regarding these sessions at their website or Facebook page.

One upcoming event for your future calendar is Art For Arts’ Sake, at Hodgdon Yacht Services, Boat Shed #1, Aug. 21-23, with a reception and sale on Friday from 5 to 7 p.m. It then continues on Saturday from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. and Sunday 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. If you are interested in further details, call 207-633-3913, or email lincolnartsfestivalbbh@gmail.com

The boats are arriving! A sure signal for one of the biggest social events of the season, Southport Fireman’s Auction on Saturday, Aug. 22. The flea market opens at 6 a.m., miscellaneous items in the garden at 7 a.m. and the auction at 9 a.m. Bring your coffee, get your number, set up your chair and prepare to bid.

I believe nothing has been missed. I apologize if it has. Call if you wish for something to be in the next column: 717-380-1521.

Take a few moments to marvel with your senses this week, the high tides have been filled with that marvelous salty scent of late, golden rod, the emblem of late summer, early fall is emerging all around, on edges, mixed among the grass and other hardy wildflowers in the unmowed and untamed places, touch the sun soaked rocks and May Peace Be With You All.