As the 16th year of the 21st century begins, Vineyard memories abound. On Island to close up the house, I’m recalling the 2005 Christmas season here when Della Hardman (my mother) died at age 83, shortly after the birth of her first great-grandchild.

Today, with five great-grandkids in the family, her spirit lives on through their smiles and the annual Della Hardman Day celebration held in cooperation with the town of Oak Bluffs.

On behalf of the Della Hardman Day committee chaired by Gretchen Tucker Underwood, Della’s family, fiscal sponsor Featherstone Center for the Arts and the town, all Vineyarders are urged to save the date, Saturday, July 30, 2016.

Between now and then, don’t forget to savor every moment. Happy New Year!

Andrea L. Taylor
Oak Bluffs