“Hold fast to dreams, for if dreams die, life is a broken-winged bird that cannot fly.” –Langston Hughes
Langston Hughes was an American poet, social activist, novelist, playwright, and columnist who lived a short life, from 1901 to 1967, but left a legacy by paving his own path and writing his truth. His words continue to inspire today.
As I write this, we are waiting for a big snowstorm. I can still feel how exciting this was as a kid — couldn’t wait to get out in it for some sledding, snowball throwing, and snowman making! When I was growing up in Western Massachusetts, it seemed to just snow all winter. We were out in it every day after school — because I don’t remember school ever being canceled due to snow. Skating on the ponds was my favorite winter sport.
These days I mostly like watching the snow from inside the house … though I could still be tempted to take a ride down Tashmoo Overlook hill. I’ll let you know how it goes!
Speaking of snow, our Feb. 1 full moon is the “Snow Moon,” and it will be rising in a sky full of bright stars, as the Beehive Cluster in Cancer will be visible (if we have a clear night). Hopefully it’s not too frigid to get outside and see these sights!
Don’t forget Bingo night at the P.A. Club on Thursday, Jan. 29, starts at 6:30 pm. Have fun and support the M.V. Center for Living!
I want to give a shout-out to the P.A. Club, members and staff. They have suffered a heartbreaking blow in the loss of longtime President Tricia Bergeron and Roy Scheffer. They are the bedrock of this community, offering a place for memorial gatherings and special celebrations, bringing us together for music and connection, hosting nonprofit benefits to keep our community strong. They have weathered many a storm, and they keep getting better. Thank you to Charlene Alley and everyone who works so hard to manage and preserve the club, our O.B. social center. If you want to become a member to support their work, stop in and see one of the staff.
Happy birthday to Julie Gaffey on Jan. 29! Mike Giordano and Jarek Peters celebrate on Jan. 30. If you see Ginny Coutinho on Jan. 31, be sure to give her a birthday hug! Jarrett Campbell also celebrates on the 31st, which is also the birthday of the great Jackie Robinson. February begins with Judy Searle’s birthday, who will be celebrating on her other favorite island, Isla Mujeres!
A big Happy Birthday shout-out to my girls — the beautiful, talented Nala and Madison Pitman celebrate the day of their birth on Feb. 3! Missy Smith, Nicole Brisson, and Emma Williamson also celebrate on the 3rd. Rosa Parks was born on Feb. 4, as were Tom Dresser and Matt Rivers. Enjoy your special day!
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