KATHIE CASE

508-627-5349

(kathleencase@comcast.net)

Even though the temperature never reached above 60 degrees Wednesday as it did off-Island, we had a beautiful sunny day and the crocuses were in full bloom. I even noticed that my dwarf irises had opened. It gives you such a great feeling and a lot more energy.

Happy birthday to all who celebrated their day this past week. Big balloons go out to Camden Emery, who celebrated his day March 3; Ryan Noia, March 5; Joseph Pinto, March 6; William Bruguiere, March 7; and to Dya Maloney, who celebrated her day March 8.

It is that time of year again where we look every day for a sign of spring and I found the big one Wednesday. The Dairy Queen will be opening March 14. That is one of the true signs of the season.

We drove to Oak Bluffs this morning. It’s easy to forget how beautiful this Island is. The sunrise over Chappy was spectacular after a beautiful full moon night. The gulls and crows were fighting over the bounty the seagulls were getting from the pond in the extra low tide. Of course, we were praying that when they dropped the clam or scallop they did not hit the truck. Even though the water was a bit choppy the ducks were taking it all in stride. Oak Bluffs was quiet, but that was okay for the brant and geese in the park enjoying their shoots of grass. When we turned on the bend of New York avenue the boat was coming into Vineyard Haven, showing off its white against West Chop. It sounds like a dream, but it was the real thing. I thank my parents for bringing me to this beautiful Island.

The big talk these days is watching Erika Van Pelt, who is performing on American Idol. Erika is known on the Island from her performances with the Sultans of Swing, which performs at many events and weddings on and off-Island. She has performed at the Atlantic and the back room at the Wharf. She has a beautiful voice. Good luck, Erika; we are rooting for you.

The Anchors are starting their spring exercise programs. Chair pilates is taught by Brenda Correa every Tuesday at 10 a.m., starts March 13 and continues through the end of May. Salsa dancing with Saskia Vanderhoop starts Friday, March 9 and continues through June 1. The class is $70 for 10 weeks.

Don’t forget to spring ahead this weekend. Put your clocks ahead one hour at 2 a.m. Sunday morning, and change your batteries in your fire alarms.

Have a great week and keep the home candles burning.