There have been gloomy days which brought rain that was much appreciated, even if not nearly enough to rectify the on-going drought. Now we have those stellar days with warming sun, clear skies and gentle ripples on the sparkling water. While the light of day is shortening, when it is with us it filters through the canopy of colors bringing forth what is nature’s illuminated manuscript known to us as autumn, breathtaking. The other evening, I was able to see my breath, a reminder that first light frost is neigh, for us it is normally between the 8th and 15th of October, so start thinking about those plants you might still have outside and make room in your living space, a blooming geranium in a window with a backdrop of snow can lift your spirits in January. For now, though let’s prepare for the week ahead.

Journey to the Southport Memorial Library on Tuesday, Thursday, or both around 10 a.m. and enjoy the Coffee Table. Share stories, current events, song, jokes or conversation alongside a warm beverage and homemade baked good, on occasion complimentary piano from Bob Moore Jr., not to be missed. Also Thursdays from 2 to 4 p.m., join the Mah Jongg group. There are 2026 cards and two sets of tiles, bring your own if you want, all skill levels are welcome. Circle Thursday, Oct. 22 for our last author talk. At 6:30 p.m., Greg Smith will present an interactive discussion and program to delve into the psychology behind horror literature. He will read from his own new book, “Prayers For Evil” and reference several other well known horror writers, Poe, King and Jackson, if we are lucky, he will tell a few ghost stories of his own.

This is the last week to take in and perhaps purchase some of the unique items to be found at Lynn Schafer’s Possibilities Antique Shop. Lovely handmade quilts, rag rugs, cottage furniture, kitchenalia and so many more possibilities for your home. She will be open daily from 12:30 to 5 p.m. Feel free to call 207-208-7981 if you would like to make other arrangements.

The Elderkin Studio is still open and many new pieces have been brought in for viewing. The colors and images will bring you into a state of well being and give you a true sense of appreciation for this place that she loved so well and captured with a keen eye, allowing the viewer a glimpse into the true wonder of nature. Thursday, Friday, and Saturday 11-2.

You might still be able to register online, for the Ornament Fused Glass Workshop being held on Saturday, Oct. 10 from 10 a.m. to noon at The Barn. Create three ornaments of your own design which would be fired in the instructor’s kiln and available for pick-up the following week. Barn hours are Wednesday-Saturday 10-5 and Sunday 10-3. Also, all are welcome to the Community Knitting Group at The Barn on Wednesdays from 2 to 4 p.m. Bring your project or go to learn from those a bit more seasoned in the fiber art that magically turns wool into the wondrous layers that keep us warm with style. You can, of course, get yourself something delicious to eat or drink from the General Store while there. Breakfast, lunch and dinner to eat in or take out, always wholesome and made with fresh, local ingredients. Check the website for hours.

As we speak of food, note Cozy’s Dockside is closed for the season, but Robinson’s Wharf remains open seven days a week from 11 a.m. to 8 p.m. Live music indoors will begin again on Fridays starting Oct. 23 with the Murky Water Band, so put on your dancing shoes, start working on the sing along voice and prepare for seeing some of your friends and neighbors.

Since we all want to get together and be healthy this winter season remember that The Southport Island Association (SIA), in conjunction with Nathan's Pharmacy, is conducting a flu vaccination clinic at the Southport Town Hall, Thursday, Oct. 8 from 4 to 5:15 p.m. All are welcome.

Almost all medical insurance plans (including Medicare) pay for influenza vaccination. Bring your medical insurance information to the clinic (e.g. Medicare card, Blue Cross / Blue Shield card). If you are unable to pay, come anyway - SIA will help offset the cost. Consult with your primary care physician if you have any questions about the advisability of receiving a flu vaccination, given your personal medical history. No other vaccinations or boosters (COVID, RSV, etc.) beyond the current flu vaccine are currently included for this clinic.

Lastly, Karen Reilley won September’s raffle of two potholders and a $20 gift certificate to Southport Island Treasures. You could be the next winner, all you need do is stop into the wonderful shop, a true gem of a thrift store, fill out a no purchase necessary ticket for a chance for two Thanksgiving inspired potholders and a $20 gift certificate. Angel continues to collect for the Southport Historical Society which brought us all fabulous speakers and demonstrations this summer season and believe it or not, Christmas items are coming out in between the autumn ware.

While the road construction is an inconvenience for many of us, it is a daily, noisy, dusty reality for those on the route, it is causing stress, please check in on those directly affected, offer some quiet at your home, or a cuppa and May Peace Be With You All.