Hello friends and neighbors!

If we are lucky, this week should bring a welcome respite from shoveling! I grew up on a farm in Minnesota, and am well versed in the fine art of snow removal. In fact, if we aren’t moving around white precipitation at this time of year, I know something is amiss. Nevertheless at some point we all need a rest from back breaking work! I have learned that the key is to find the fun in winter, and if the sun is shining, get out and grab some of that vitamin D! In the past week husband Dick and I have skied and snowshoed in the woods, plus enjoyed two marvelous days of track skiing at Pineland Farms in New Gloucester. And our snowman is still standing, though he has lost some facial features!

Surviving winter weather gives us the opportunity to work together as community. I have heard stories this past week of neighbor helping neighbor with shoveling, plowing, and extricating foundered machinery with heavy equipment. You can do your part by making sure your mailbox is thoroughly cleared out so that the post can be properly delivered from the vehicle. Large snow banks make it difficult to see oncoming traffic and slippery roads make matters worse. Let’s all stay safe by slowing down on Route 144 to accommodate vehicles pulling out on the road. Thank you for doing your part!

Of course not everyone likes playing in the snow, as can be attested to by the number of snowbirds heading south to warmer climes at this time of year. Others choose to savor indoor avocations such as sewing, rug hooking, music making or reading. Anne Cole-Fairfield claims she can happily hibernate with her sewing machine for long hours during winter months. In fact, this is the time of year when crafters are setting their 2017 schedules. Anne and company are submitting their “call for artists” to exhibit at the 19th Annual Westport Island Artisans Guild Show, which will be held this year on Saturday, Sept. 16, from 9 to 3 at the Old Town Hall. Applications will be ready soon! If you would like more information, contact Anne at 882-5078 or email acolefairfield@gmail.com.

If you have an event to publicize or news to share, contact your newshound pat-dick@midcoast.com or call 231-4049. Enjoy the noticeably longer hours of daylight!