When my kids were at the Chilmark School I was readily in the, so-called, loop when it came to the highs and lows of their school days. Now that they are in their twenties, I rely on friends in the school system, those with little people or the little people themselves to share things that might peak the interest of the community as a whole.

Before departing for vacation, I was lucky enough to get the Ms. Jackie 4/5 classroom update courtesy of communicator extraordinaire, Mary Ambulos. Excitement surrounds Virginia Wallace who is this year’s Chilmark School spelling bee winner. She lasted 18 rounds taking the win by spelling the word “cubism.” Golden Vanderhoop was this year’s runner up. According to Ms. Jackie, “Preparing for the spelling bee isn’t just about spelling words. Spellers practiced the importance of self-control, flexibility, and perseverance.” Virginia’s classmates will cheer her on at the all-Island spelling bee at the MVRHS PAC on March 21. Way to go 4/5 spellers.

This week is school vacation week. There will be stories of planes, trains and automobiles. There will be stories of family vacations that take folks to warm, sunny tropical shores and those that sought out snow-covered peaks. Staycations with movies, books, games, beach walks and pizza parties are always a hit when traveling long distance isn’t in the cards.

I’m glad to hear Bill Smith is gaining strength after taking a tumble which was then exacerbated by a case of the flu. Good vibes, positive thoughts and well wishes are all sent in your direction, Bill.

The sunshine and 40-plus degree day were all the incentive Dave Tilton needed to get out on the water with Wayne and Vinny Iacono for a family limit of scallops. I was witness to three smiling faces making their way back into the harbor from the pond.

Although this is known as the quietest week in town, a few folks have snuck into visit and lend a hand to loved ones.

Between errands and birding outings, Adam Goldman has been nestled in amongst the pines on Menemsha Inn Road with dad Andy and Susan. The word from Andy is, although Susan’s knee replacement went really well, it’s nice to have Adam in residence to tend to their needs. He managed to take a snapshot of a seal pup sunning itself on the beach. What a treat.

Many of you might remember Ian Yaffe, who spent many a summer day some years ago working for the Menemsha harbor master or peddling T-shirts for the Chilmark Fire Department. He paid a visit to town and, although a funeral was the main reason, he managed to squeeze in some touring and visiting during the bright sunshine Monday had to offer. His bride Eliza and two toddling kiddos remained in Maine for this trip, but soon their toes will need to feel Menemsha sand between them.

Alex Doty crossed the brook and woodland paths to make his way to his parent’s, Nan and Warren, home. Household chores and quality time topped the to-do list.

The quietest week in town leaves room to fill our minds and hearts with memories of a dear friend and neighbor who has bid her farewell and taken her last steps on earth. As her daughter Mary reflected, the gradual loss had been felt and the long goodbye had already been said. Despite this, I am sure her loss is not felt any less acutely. I met Barbara Murphy over 30 years ago. She wandered in to the Texaco with her then teenager who was looking for a job. From that day forward and each chance encounter after that, Barbara would be the woman who’d light up a conversation with her smile that covered her face. It wasn’t just from ear to ear, it was her entire face. She made a positive impression on everyone. For those who couldn’t claim her as wife, sister, vovo (grandmother), aunt or other familiar title, she was Señora Murphy. For those who learned Spanish from her, having Señora Murphy in their lives was nearly as good as being related by blood. My love and condolences go out to her husband Chris, daughters Hope and Mary, son-in-laws Chris and Jonathan and her joyous grandkids Finnegan, Linden and Emily. Word will come from the family when it is time to gather as a community to share memories and love.