Nature tested us this past week with high temperatures, humidity, barely a breeze or cloud cover. Many of us wilted, but the day lilies met the challenge and erupted all across the island. Other plants and grasses need rain as do wells, water cools and nourishes. Understandably many are seeking the beach; a reminder is in order. There is but one handicap parking space in the lot, it is meant for those with the proper license plate or placard in their vehicle, nobody else. In addition, respect private property, the lighthouse, and the road to it are not public nor is Beach Road overflow parking, enjoy, but please be courteous while visiting.

So, after that short PSA let us look into the events and announcements for the week and beyond, beginning with the Southport Memorial Library. As always on Tuesdays and Thursdays you can join the coffee table for camaraderie and a sweet treat, it begins 10ish. Now on Wednesdays at 10 there is Storytime in the children’s room, a read aloud, craft and small snack. Also, on Wednesday from 2 to 4 p.m., the newly formed Mah Jongg group is meeting, learn now, winter is coming. Take in the new art exhibit of works by Mary Jo Rines who passed in 2011 curated by her daughter Mary Venezia. Mary Jo was a member of the New England Watercolor Society and ran Deep Cove workshops from her studio on Southport. Then on Saturday, July 11 at noon, enjoy stories, conversation and celebrate Dr. Barclay Shepard’s book, “A Surgeon’s Slice of Life. From the Coast of Maine to Turkey and back,” Dr. Barclay Shepard’s century-spanning story sails through adventure, service, and discovery. His journey bridges continents, careers, and compassion. Refreshments will be served. Hours for July and August: Tuesday 9-4, 6-8, Wednesday 9-4, Thursday 9-4, 6-8, and Saturday 9-4. 

During these busy summer days, you might need a coffee or tea to get you up and running, and of course breakfast, the most important meal of the day, or lunch to go, the Southport General Store has you covered. They can also help with catering needs. From dinners, wedding day brunches or other celebrations, their seasonal menus feature favorites and thoughtful touches to make your entertaining less stressful, giving you more time with company. The Barn is now open seven days a week, Monday - Saturday 10 – 6, Sunday 10 – 3. They have Robert Mitchell's new 2027 calendar, Pat Evans’ tea towels, Maria Doelp's Southport Island print, Mike Faass’ pottery, and Kathy Faass’ fused glass.

If you have some leisure, stop by Lynn Schafer’s Possibilities Antique Shop, look for the open banner with a buoy, just past the school on the left. She has handmade quilts, rag rugs, cottage furniture, kitchenalia and other lovely Possibilities for your home. Daily 12:30-5 until Oct. 12, or by arrangement, 207-208-7981.

From there take Cozy Harbor Road to the intersection, take a left onto Pratt’s Island Road and head to #66, just at the bridge, there you will find the June Elderkin Studio. Hours are Thursday-Saturday 11-2, or by appointment: 207-350-2162 or 717-380-1521. June’s vibrant works are not to be missed, acrylics, oils and pastels used masterfully to capture the wonders of this place she called home.

Once you return to the main road, visit Southport Island Treasures, a thrift and resale shop at 608 Hendricks Hill Road. With charm, changing inventory, monthly raffle, support for area non-profits, and fudge, why wouldn’t you stop? The red white and blue, nautical themed runner went to Martha Cowdery just in time for the 4th, you could be the next winner, no purchase needed, but you will find something, my kitty phone holder has become indispensable. July’s prize is two blueberry print potholders and a $25 gift card to Southport Island Treasures. This month money is being raised for the Southport library and there will be a giant community yard sale on the 18th of July with rent for the spaces going directly to the library. More to come about the sale.

Keep on going and you will arrive at the Newagen Inn. Fabulous for lunch, or dinner at the Pub where you can enjoy live music with Maura Nicholson and Danny Grish on Thursday, July 9 and Nat Hussey on Sunday, July 12, from 6:30 to 8:30 p.m. Remember Tuesday night lobster bakes are back and perfect for your out-of-town guests. Reservations and pre-payment are required and can be made on the dining page of Newagen’s website. 

Head around the East side and you will end up at Robinson’s Wharf where you can, weather permitting, hear Dave Gagne on July 11 and School Street band on July 12 from 1-4 p.m. on the amazing deck while having good food and drink served by an outstanding crew.

From there, wrap around again to see the Hendricks Hill Museum where you might have enjoyed the annual Ice Cream Social. Now open Tuesday, Thursday, and Saturday from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. Docent tours, or self-guided, free, with donations appreciated. Reserve Monday July 13 for a talk by Kevin Johnson at Town Hall, 7 p.m., titled: “Boothbay Now and Then, New and Historic Images of the Boothbay Peninsula.”

There a few more things here and there, check the bulletin boards at the store, library and post office, my word count has reached its limit. Take in the cooler temperatures, watch the fledglings demanding food, avoid the jellyfish and May Peace Be With You All.