We are beginning my favorite month of all. April is National Poetry Month. The Academy of American Poets, of which I am a member, reminds me that this is the 25th anniversary of this designation. There are many wonderful poets on our Island. For purposes of space, I shall mention three that are especially dear: James Patrick Rafuse, Janie Flanders and Arnie Riesman.

Arnie hosts our monthly Poetry Cafe, now virtual, at 5 p.m. on the first Wednesday of each month. All are welcome to participate. Be prepared to run into me anywhere with a “poem in my pocket.” This month is designated to carrying a poem in your pocket of your own work or a favorite of someone else. When you see someone you know, or don’t know, you should take the poem out and read it. Have fun.

It is no joke, Morning Glory Farm is opening April 1. Time to get your fruits and vegetables for next weekend.

Island daughter, Nancy Applebaum, will be visiting with Natalie for a few days. She is here to honor her Mom, Anita Cineno, who turns 89 at her residence at Windemere. If you would like to send Anita a card, mail it to: Windemere, P.O. Box 1747, Oak Bluffs, MA 02568. Anita will appreciate it.

I needed to take care of business in New York. I rushed down there. Then I was stuck for a ride back because I did not know the bus route I take had been canceled because of the virus. What good fortune to connect with Ginny Cramer and her sister, Barbara, to catch a ride directly to the boat in Woods Hole. These fascinating women had also attended my high school, Good Counsel Academy, although we were in different graduating classes. That was the great part of the ride. The boat trip was unfortunate. Heavy winds, rocking and rolling. I feared I would regurgitate in my mask! The Steamship employees were fabulous and very helpful. Special shout-out to Martinho.

Get well wishes go out to Michael James Cooley in Boston and Patsy Weaver Murphy in Virginia. Bouquets to you both.

The birthday bandwagon pulled along Chef Deon on March 28. Say hi to him at the VFW. Anita Cimeno celebrates on April 3. Amber Willoughby observes April 4. And on April 5, my dear friend, William Carter, takes the cake. Many happy returns.