We have had a few good days and the wind came back in and cooled it off, but the sun put energy in many people. Now that gardens are being put in, the rain is welcome to help the plants.
Happy birthday to all those who celebrated their day this past week. Big balloons go out to Bianca Nunes and Alondra Hernandez, who celebrated their day May 17; Summer Cimeno, May 18; Jamison Knapp, Kayden Henry-Boyd, May 19; Isaac Barbosa, Salomao Marcal, May 20; and to Ysis Braganca who celebrates her day on May 22.
Sarah Connolly wrote to tell me her extraordinary mom Joan Connolly turns 96 on May 23. She is thrilled to be back gardening with this nice weather. Both live in Edgartown.
John Merrow is back for another year, as Bill turns 85 in June. For his 16th year in a row, he will attempt to “Bike his age” to donate to Island Housing Trust. IHT is determined to meet the need for housing by creating permanently affordable housing for 500 of our year-round friends and neighbors over the next five years. If at least 85 generous folks each contribute $85 or more to IHT, it will unlock some larger donations. And to up the ante: if he does not manage to “bike his age,” he will personally match your donations, up to $8,500. Giving is easy, donate to Island Housing Trust and mention John’s name so IHT can track the progress toward the goal.
The bi-plane rides have started. I heard it going over the nursery and thought it really is summer now. I still enjoy after all these years watching pilot Mike Creato fly over different parts of the Island and still hope to see him do the barrel roll and the big loop. Because I am a chicken, I have never been on the plane, but I really enjoy watching from the ground and I do know Mike is an excellent pilot.
It is Memorial Day weekend and everyone is coming to the Island to be with family and friends, doing gardening, opening houses and enjoying the beaches. With all this happening, please take time out to think of all those who fought for us to be able to be free and live happily in this country.
Have a great week and keep the home candles burning.
This article appears in May 22, 2026.