I finally did it. I emptied the pockets of my winter coat, which takes some doing because it is my office for five months, and tossed it in the wash. That should be the end of that. But it is New England weather.

I took myself downtown to check out some of the shops I have not visited. There was Anne-Marie Eddy’s shop on Union Street, Refabulous. I met the very personable and knowledgeable Hana Kahn. She introduced me to many whimsical yet useful touches, from decorative cabinet knobs to scented candles to children’s books. Local artists display their wares there, including Joan LeLacheur’s wampum jewelry, Ellen Thayer’s photography, bracelets and necklaces made by Anne-Marie herself.

I had the good fortune to run into Eileen Sullivan there. Eileen had just dropped a cache of her children’s book, Peter Pinkletink, at the Bunch of Grapes. Eileen is the writer and illustrator of her books. You should see the care that goes into each page! And Island references abound.

On the earlier strip of Main street, Jack Ryan’s wondrous details of Manhattan line the walls of Mocha Mott’s this month.

We thank all who participated in the MS Bikeathon last weekend. Same time next year.

Officers from our Tisbury police department read to our kids today at our library’s story hour. I am so encouraged by our community’s participation with our youngsters.

Ria Cimeno suggests we go down Clough Lane to enjoy the blooming trees and the glorious red and yellow tulips in the Gardens of August.

Healthy Kids Day at our YMCA was a great success last Saturday. I vote for more in the future, please.

My good friend Jackie Belleville is home and recovering very nicely from her recent medical incident. As soon as you can, Jackie, we expect a visit.

The birthday bandwagon pulled along Don Groover on May 7; May 8 is shared by Rachel Rice and Victoria Campbell; and on May 17 Jude Cutler Byrd takes the cake. Many happy returns.