It’s the Sunday morning before the midterm election. I have just returned from a filled-with-love but painful 10 days with family in California. Faced with the sudden death of a beloved nephew, the impending death of a cousin, and the growing brain cancer faced by one of my sisters, I had to be there. I am grateful that I could. Flying back into Massachusetts, I looked down at a sea of the greens and golds and rusts of fall, while approaching landing at Logan, the Atlantic sparkled below. A quick ride back to Woods Hole, and I was on the ferry. It was time to exhale. I was home again, my heart comforted by the sea air, the thrum of the ferry engines, and the memories of hugs from sisters, cousins, grandsons, and old familiars. As we docked in Vineyard Haven, the tears flowed that I had held back in deference to the needs of those in California. They were tears of love and gratitude, and the overwhelming relief of being back to what has truly become my home place.
Meanwhile, folks back here have been busy planning for what promises to be an increasingly busy few months. The Aquinnah library is offering a free felting workshop on Saturday, Nov. 7, from noon to 2 pm. Intended for adults and kids ages 10 and up, this will give you a chance to learn how to sculpt your very own wool felted pumpkin. Felting is a process where you needle-shape colorful wool into realistic ridges, seams, and textured details. It’s a perfect craft for beginners. Space is limited, so please register by emailing Callie at cbrust@clamsnet.org. Then on Thursday, Nov. 12, at 3:30 pm, the library offers a free Zine Workshop. Join them at the library to learn about zines and create your own. All ages are welcome at this one.
NaDaizja Bolling of the Aquinnah Cultural Center and I have taken on the happy task of organizing the Aquinnah Artisans Holiday Fair. Set for the first weekend in December, this is a gathering of talented artists and artisans from our up-Island communities, kicking off the holiday season and selling their goods at the Aquinnah Town Hall. If you are a local artist and want to participate, please let me know by Nov. 8, and I’ll send you the particulars. The rest of you, please put this event onto your calendar so you can come join the fun.
There will be a vaccination clinic for adults and children older than 6 months, on Sunday, Nov. 8, from 10 am until 2 pm. Being held at the Martha’s Vineyard Regional High School, they will have vaccines for COVID-19 and flu. For registration information, contact the Aquinnah Board of Health. There is also a flyer with a registration link available, posted on the bulletin board at Town Hall.
On Tuesday, Nov. 10, the Up-Island Council on Aging is holding a free luncheon for seniors at the Chilmark Community Center at noon. You can call 508-693-2896 to RSVP.
Nov. 5 is the day for happy birthday wishes for Nanawusuwee Vanderhoop Powell. Let me know if I’ve missed anyone. Be well.
