We are getting some much-needed rain. I know this time of year some people are not happy with it because they want to hit the beach but the ground is so dry. I am happy for the rain and I know the flowers and lawns are happy.

Happy birthday to all who celebrated their day this past week. Big balloons go out to Jordan Souza and Emma Waltersdorf, who celebrated June 30; Sophia Santos, July 1; Maria DeFreitas, July 2; and to Robert Manning who celebrates his day July 3.

It is going to be a different Fourth of July–no parade or fireworks–but I am sure there are lots of barbecues and beach parties planned. There are certainly a lot of people here. Traffic is backed up and the lines at the Stop and Shop are almost endless. I am glad for the merchant but I know I am trying to keep my distance.

The Amity Island Running Club has begun its in-person Thirsty Thursday runs again. Join them every Thursday for a run (or walk). Runners will leave State Beach at the Bend in the Road at 5:30 p.m. You choose your distance and pace. Please bring a face mask or covering and a beach chair for afterward. Everyone is welcome. It’s a fun group of people, with many regulars and frequent one-run-only participants.

I was coming home from Morning Glory Farm and, as I passed Sweetened Water Pond, I looked at the field that Jan and I walked every morning and smiled. It was not only mornings that we loved the field but it was a great place to watch the stars. Skunks or no skunks–when there was an astronomical event going on, we made our way up there and could see so much.

We were so happy the morning that the space shuttle went over for the first time and we watched it till it went out of sight. But my favorite night was when we watched the Aurora Borealis. It was just dark enough to see all those colors and we talked about it for months.

Yes, that field will always be a special place.

I wish you all a happy and safe Fourth of July but, this year, I also wish you a healthy one.

Have a great week and keep the home candles burning.