New green leaves seemed even greener on the gray, rainy days that are closing out the month of April on the Vineyard. Daffodils and cherry blossoms flourished with the rain, and the mushrooms, too, soaked up every drop.

A new month, a new mindset, if you let it be so. The story of winter and the offseason has come to a close, and a new one begins — of first swims, warm sunsets and fresh asparagus on the horizon.

Mother’s Day comes in many forms — mothers, grandmothers, great grandmothers, caregivers. There is also Mother Earth to consider, here and there and everywhere.

The hope for the year ahead is heard once again in the old and comfortable greeting called out to friends and strangers alike: “We wish you a Happy New Year.” There are no better words for the beginning of a new year, always with the accompanying sentiments of peace and joy and prosperity for all.

From all of us at the Vineyard Gazette we extend to everyone on the Island and across the nation best wishes for a happy, prosperous and peaceful new year 2025.