Earmarking 2011.... Flashbacks and accomplishments

This year has been filled with many more accomplishments than I can ever remember!

In January I entered into my last undergraduate semester at ESF, which coincidentally celebrated it's 100th birthday.  GCI also successfully hosted the "State of Syracuse" which brought local politicians and community activists together to learn about efforts being made and those still needed to make Syracuse a more healthy, sustainable city.

Febuary.... what did happen in Febuary... I do believe that was the month I submitted my application to serve as an AmeriCorps fellow with the Island Institute (which has inevitably led me to create this blog).

March brought another Spring break in New Orleans, St. Bernard's Parish, and Chalmette.  For a second consecutive year I made the 22 hour trip with Operation Southern Comfort to help rebuild homes and lives.  Hurricane Katrina devastated the Gulf of Mexico and many groups dedicate their time and resources to helping families move back into their homes, yes even after 6 years.  The friends and experiences gained during these trips will live with me forever.

April 2011 brought about many realities as graduation approached, job searches were in full force, and many friends realized they would have to say goodbye soon.  I had interviews for 2 jobs, both of which went really well and my campaign for a Sustainability Fee at ESF proved successful (keep up the good work GCI'ers)

Brought in by April showers... May opened the many eyes of my fellow classmates as we were all sweating about finishing homework assignments, senior syntheses, and answering that dreaded question of "What's next?"  The day after graduation I found myself at my first desk in a professional setting at the Town of DeWitt where I would lead a team of 3 to conduct a Greenhouse Gas Inventory.  What a great experience that was! 

June marked my first trip to coastal Maine in 8 years and my first trip to an island, ever.  I ventured out here, to Vinalhaven, for an interview to see if I would be a good fit for this town as they embark on updating their comprehensive plan.  While I felt a little like a fish out of water, I was pleased to have, at the very least, gone through the interview process.  The trip to the island was short, sweet, and would have likely brought me back someday whether I got the job or not; Vinalhaven is a place with great intrigue.

July rolled in shortly after the trip to Maine and I anxiously awaited a phone call from Maine letting me know if I had been offered a job.  The ladies in the office, at DeWitt, looked at me somewhat confused and perhaps a little scared as I jumped up from my desk the morning I got the phone call. The job was offered to me and I'm not sure I was able to even finish the day at the office I was so excited.  I had accepted the one-year AmeriCorps/Island Institute fellowship following the weekend (took a couple days to make sure there was indeed nothing that would keep me from saying yes) to serve as a community planning/economic development fellow on Vinalhaven.

August was a month of goodbyes as I knew my time in NY was limited.  My job in DeWitt was done as my apartment lease ran out.  I spent the rest of the summer trying not to say no and attempting to see all those that mattered most.  I was even able to come up with a few new ice cream flavors at the restaurant I was working at (Choc/Marsh Coffee swirl with espresso beans; the others are a secret).

In September I loaded my Impala and moved to Vinalhaven to start a new chapter.  It wouldn't take long to make new friends as I joined 7 other fellows, along with a great group of staff from the Island Institute for a week of orientation and team building.  By the third week of September I was at another desk and finally settled in my new apartment.  The month was filled with new experiences and a couple thousand pictures, yes thousand.  I put the new camera to use, and still do (thanks Mom and Dad!)  O yea - I almost forgot, below is a picture of me descending a 30 foot guy-wire, of which I thought was a major feat for me.  A few minutes later we had a convincing speech from the Camp Keive staff about pushing our limit and trusting our new friends, so I scaled another tree, 50 feet up, and walked across that guy-wire... not too shabby for someone who has always been afraid of heights!

October was filled with adventure.  I hiked many preserves on Vinalhaven and explored as much as I could, before hunting season came that is.  I was also able to attend the Sustainable Island Living Conference which featured  Bill McKibben and Ben Hewitt as they talked about the state of the planet and local agricultural systems.  Both presenters raised points relevant to the island and left me with a lot of consideration for how my work is relevant to the greater picture.

November is a month of harvest, thankfulness, and a long trip for those heading to NY.  I did indeed head back to NY for Thanksgiving to spend time with my family.  The fellowship, at that point, had made great strides and so much had been accomplished.  Among those accomplishments were greater understanding of the town and the 2005 draft comp plan, joining the men's book club, taking saxophone lessons, making more interior storm windows, begin working with the middle school energy club, and the list goes on...  All in all, there was a lot to be thankful for. 

December, as I know it, is a month of cool temps and snow.  But, not here, or anywhere in the northeast for that matter.  The snow just hasn't seemed to find us yet, and by many that was ok.  The picture below is one of 3 or 4 days VH saw snow in December.  This December was different than others because I spent Christmas in VH.  While I did not have any decorations or lights (minus the holiday scented candles) I still waited til Christmas morning to open my presents. 

 

As there are probably so many more things I should have mentioned, I suppose that pretty much sums up the year.  Thank you to my family, friends, and new acquaintances on Vinalhaven (and in Maine).  I hope you are all apart of a new year full of laughter and love.

'til next year

Merry Christmas!

Another week in the books and one more for 2011.  My, how time flies.  December sure has been a little uncharacteristic as temperatures peaked in the upper 40's/lower 50's just a week ago.  



Thanks to the blustery winter temps, we still have some snow from Friday morning's white mess.  For those that were up early enough this past Friday, you may have seen Joeseph away from the manger as he appeared to have been trying to get some ice cream.  Didn't he know the Gawker wasn't going to be open for another few months??  No worries, he found his way back safely.

To those near and far... Merry Christmas from Vinalhaven! 

Winter Wonderland

That four letter word that so many southerners consider profanity has finally blessed us.  What good timing mother nature has as Santa rode through town earlier today as the snow fell.  I see many people have come together on downstreet as storefronts have kept their lights on later than a typical Saturday and what a festive sight to see as the cold, long winter begins to set in.



A trip to Lane's Island was required as the new backdrop painted the landscape, far different than the spring-like weather we had just two weeks before.

Dec 17th

December 1st

Most of today was spent building more storm windows with the Vinalhaven Energy Club.  We were able to make 6 windows today and installed 3 of them.  Apparently we had some miscommunication or a little mental lapse on a late Friday afternoon prep day.  Back to the shop we went late today to correct our mistakes, for we guarantee our work!

I had the pleasure of spending the day Friday in Augusta with a couple other Vinalhaven-ers at the Maine Development Foundation Holiday Lunch.  We were able to talk to other community representatives from other coastal and central Maine communities and learn what they have been working on.  Many were taken back by the fact we "came off the rock and all the way to Augusta just for this".  We felt the trip was well worth it as connections were made with a great foundation and other Main'ers.

Tomorrow will bring another day of bottle sorting, but beforehand, a few rounds of Kings in the Corner with some new friends at Eldercare.  The afternoon should be packed with some exciting football games, most notably the Patriots vs Tim Tebow, the Broncos, and GOD.  I sure hope Tom Brady can play the Devil's role and spoil this almost impossible run of luck, or blessing for we all know it is not the defense that got the Patriots to 10-3. 

'Til next time
   

'Tis the Season...and what a wonderful start

My updates seem to be a far cry from what I intended, but I am still very much here.  Over the last month fishermen have been pulling traps, the tree in town has been lit, and Black Friday was a success.  I also had the pleasure of spending Thanksgiving week in my hometown in central New York.  I must say, I was disappointed that there was no snow back in CNY and I'm surprised that we haven't seen much out here either.  If you you didn't know better, you might guess it was spring on Lane's Island on this early December day...

Lane's Island on December 1st.

Comprehensive Planning update
Progress moves forward as I continue to meet with people and hear their stories, experiences, and thoughts about the town.  The Mid-Coast Regional Planning Commission has provided an inventory of the Transportation sector of Vinalhaven which consists of an overview and assessment of the roads (including car count data), bridges, ferry system, and pedestrian facilities.  Funding from a state grant gave them the ability to conduct this inventory at no cost to the town and while there are still many tables and assessments left to fill out in this section,  it was a big help and provides a good overview of the island's transportation system. 

VCC
The Chamber of Commerce organized their 3rd annual Black Friday event as a way to promote shopping local and supporting community merchants.  While Vinalhaven's sales did not start at 10 PM Thanksgiving Day, many stores opened their doors by 6 AM, giving plenty of time for those that may have been waiting for the first ferry to take them to the mainland stores.

Island Institute
Last Tuesday, the Institute hosted one of their Energy Quests at the Vinalhaven School which featured a new Green Boat Design.  The forum-like event, Fuel and Fisheries, focused on cutting energy use and improving a boat's fuel efficiency, especially as fuel prices don't appear to be going down.  There were approximately 30 VH fishermen in the audience and another 20 participating remotely, some as far away as Alaska.
The fellows got together for our first quarter retreat this past week and we learned about the Maine Community Foundation, grant writing, and how to build interior storm windows from the folks at Mid-Coast Green Collaborative in Damariscotta.  The highlight of the retreat was the organization's Christmas Party which was held at Point Lookout in Lincolnville.

Other happenings...
The book club met last week and for the second straight month, we had a longer discussion as Ben Hewitt's book, "The Town that Food Saved", focuses on local food systems.  Many of us wondered if and how that could apply to Vinalhaven and reflected on the history of island farming.  As the book was about local food, we all tried to bring a dish that highlighted local ingredients.  Some of my favorites on the table were the Lobster Pie, fresh Kale salad, and a pumpkin pie that utilized pumpkins from a family member's garden.



The ARC held a kid-favorite, family-friendly Learning Workshop as staff taught participants how to make cookie-cutter decorations.  The kids were quickly told the dough is not the type you want to spend all night eating.   

The Bottle Brigade is still sorting and bagging as we tie the knot on approximately 12-15 bags a week, plus the bottles that are boxed from the crew inside.  The trailer had been filled and taken to the mainland about two weeks ago leaving us a little less room to walk around in the barn.  For those locals that may be reading, we are always happy to see new faces so don't hesitate to stop by between 1030 and 12 on Sunday mornings.

Tree in the park.... Looks nice, but I think it would look even better with some snow!

'Til next time

Quick update

Well, it's amazing how quick time can fly.  I have found myself busy with the comprehensive plan research/update, energy projects, and dodging bullets... ok, not really.  But it is hunting season and it is cautioned to wear that awesome blaze orange outfit.  Luckily, Lane's Island is down the road and although winter weather continues to encroach, it is always a rewarding walk. 
There were a couple quick trips "off the rock" last week as I had the opportunity to travel down to USM for a forum about offshore wind.  There were a couple scientists from Europe (Denmark and the UK, I believe) talking about their experiences out there with an emphasis on bird mortality.  The second trip was an island energy conference hosted by the Island Institute where people from N Haven, Starr Island, Monhegan, Isle au Haut, Peaks, Chebeague, and Matinicus were present.  Discussions around energy issues and potential on the respective islands were shared.
Progress on the comp plan continually yields new stories, history, positive changes, and potential issues that can be discussed further.  The plan is to listen and talk to as many people out here that are willing to discover what they like about VH and identify anything they would like to see changed.  The work with the VCC is beginning to pick up as well.  The summer survey results regarding potential business development on VH  are beginning to be analyzed.  I hope to have a breakdown following Thanksgiving. 
And speaking of Thanksgiving... I will be looking forward to a visit back to central New York.  Family, friends and some lake effect snow, hopefully, will be a few of the highlights.  Might even be able to get some good ol 315 microbrew to bring back. 
VH has a new visitor, Abigail Vazquez is here from the University of Prince Edward Island.  She is interested in understanding social enterprises and how they effect the quality of life on islands.  If anyone reading is an islander and would like to share their thoughts you can reach her at franabi@hotmail.com.  She will be here through the week following Thanksgiving and would be happy to talk to you.

Well, I think that sums up a lot of what has been happening, so 'til next time

Flyin through October

The month has quickly come to an end and this nor'easter is making sure we push our way into November.  Winds were predicted to gust around 50mph today and with that, the state ferry stayed docked until the 2:45....I can't imagine what that ride must have been like!  The video wouldn't load, but this picture to the right shows the waves cresting in the open water and you can get an idea what a boat ride would have been like today.


In other happenings... I have been working with my advisors to conceptualize the most effective forms of public engagement for this comprehensive plan.  There is nothing more important to a comprehensive plan than hearing from as many people as possible to gain an understanding of the issues (good, bad, and indifferent) in a town. 

The ARCafe continued their weekly local food lunch prep and the 24th of October featured Mac and Cheese with Hot Dogs (all Maine-made ingredients).  The cheese used was white, so the cooks decided to add squash to the cheese sauce for a more "kid-approved" color... and they loved it! 


The Vinalhaven Energy Club held their first Interior Storm Window Workshop this past weekend in which four homeowners had windows worked on.  In the three and a half hours of work we were able to complete 10-12 windows with 6 volunteers.  We are hoping to continue this workshop monthly, pending community interest.  The windows are an inexpensive interior insert that helps to reduce drafts, and yes, you can still look through them as though they were glass (ok...older glass, but its a small trade-off for the potential energy savings).   

Lunch at the Lighthouse last weekend was great as members of the Board of Selectmen, Chamber of Commerce, and Planning Commission were invited to gather for good food and an update as to my progress on the planning process.  We couldn't have had a better day that late in fall as the temps were near 50 degrees.  The lighthouse tower was open, so we had a chance to admire the brickwork of the tower and the view from atop the light. 

After nearly two months, I finally got my hands on some lobster!  It was a learning experience as I have never cooked with food as fresh as this.  The lid fell off the pot a few times as the lobsters clearly did not want to be in there.  I have made some lobster mac and cheese and hope to make some chowder later this week. 

This week should be fun as the Book Club will be meeting and reflecting on the month's book(s) (Unquenchable and The Ripple Effect).  Both focus on the environmental, social, and economic impacts of our water resources.  As population increases and demand for water continues to increase with it, one has to wonder what will happen.  We are somewhat lucky in the Northeast in that we have lots of precipitation and surface water, so we seldom worry about water, but other regions of the world and U.S. are not so fortunate. 

Well.... til next time

Sustainability and Fallen Foliage

Last weekend I had the opportunity to be a part of an event a sustainability nut could only wish to attend.  The Institute hosted the Sustainable Island Living Conference which featured Bill McKibben AND Ben Hewitt!!!  My last three years at ESF I learned about the difference between conservation and preservation, the difference between sustainability and green washing, and how important local markets are to the contribution of healthy, vibrant communities.  So there it was, my college studies coming to life; I am so grateful to have had the opportunity to meet and hear both of them speak.

The ride back from the mainland was very interesting as the storm season winds begin to blow in.  I am glad I was not sleeping on this ride because I would have likely woken up on the floor of the boat.  Waves were rocking the boat and crashing the shores of Lane's Island all afternoon.


In other happenings... I went out trying to capture pictures of the fall foliage as the colors were a little late this year.  The following pictures are looks from Fox Rocks in which I thought I had found the best place for sunset vistas.  I must say, I was slightly disappointed to see that a hill to the northwest of the rocks blocked most of the color.  Also, for better or worse, here is another place you can see the turbines.  As you may notice from both of these pictures, the majority of the color in the flora on the island is now ground cover like ferns and shrubs.  Better luck next year, right?  

Row, Row, Row your boat

So it's been a while.. been pretty busy this past week with AmeriCorps/Island Institute business.  Prior to the short trip off-island I had the pleasure of watching my first rowing competition from Smith Point.  Vinalhaven won all three heats.  The photos along the side show start to finish the second heat in which VH won by multiple boat lengths.















The conference of Volunteerism at the University of Maine @ Orono was a nice break from things and the experience was shared with a couple hundred Maine AmeriCorps members.  Following the conference the Institute ran training sessions for GIS and story telling techniques.
This weekend I am pleased to say I will be stuck at another conference, this time one devoted to the sustainability efforts/measures of Maine Islands.  Bill McKibben will kick of the event on Friday night followed by a Saturday encore from Ben Hewitt.  More to report from that after the weekend.
The comprehensive plan is beginning to raise many questions as to procedures to carry-out the process.  I have been trying to wrestle the idea of a timeline for this and keep detouring my energy to other projects, both related an unrelated to the plan.
Well that is all for now.. I'll post more soon. 'til next time

Comprehensive Plan Update

So I suppose I haven't really written about my work...  I have been researching the state's general process of creating a comprehensive plan and have been holding conversations with individuals from multiple social groups.  At this point, I am in the process of evaluating the 2005 Draft Comprehensive Plan and am re-aligning it with current state policies/guidelines to identify where discrepancies and updates in the inventory need to be addressed.  I have also been considering other communication outlets to inform the Vinalhaven community as to the plan's progress, particularly as committees form and things really begin to more forward.  Suggestions are welcome, so far we have tossed out a webpage on the town's site and a facebook page.

I have also become a member of the Energy Club out here and we have been quite active.  The end of the month will offer a interior storm window building workshop as an inexpensive winterizing technique.  Other efforts will be directed towards working with the ARC more and their Community Learning Center programs... who wouldn't want to learn how to can/preserve fall harvests, bake breads, make pasta, and build gingerbread houses!?!?

Well I suppose that pretty much sums up what I have been up to in regards to the project and general community integration.
'til next time

Do a good turn daily.. have you done yours today?

Got a minute, literally!.. ok maybe 2 if you read this post and don't just click on the link below.  Help the Island Institute raise a few bucks to support their efforts in sustaining island communities in the Gulf of Maine (and beyond):

 ReVision Energy, a full service renewable energy contracting company that provides a full range of engineering, design, installation and equipment service for homes, businesses, municipal buildings and nonprofits, has chosen Island Institute as the recipient of their October “Check in for Charity” recipient!!

This means that for each person that visits their site and enters their name and email address, they will donate $1 to the ‘tute! Last month, they raised $500 for New Hampshire Audubon! They will also count new “likes” to their Facebook page! Pretty awesome, right?!

So please visit https://red001.mail.microsoftonline.com/owa/redir.aspx?C=7b260e188d2a4f98a9405b71b9400476&URL=http%3a%2f%2fwww.revisionenergy.com%2fblog%2fcheck-in-october-for-the-island-institute%2f and share the link on your person FB page and encourage your friends to visit the site and friend them on Facebook and let’s see if we can beat $500!

Thanks in advance for your help!

Rainy Weekend

As promised... here is a picture from the wind farm as well as a landscape view of the turbines from across The Basin (I think).  The trip to the "farm" brought about questions regarding noise and the effectiveness of GE's recent noise reducing attachments.  Time will tell as to the results of those efforts.  Questions about animal mortality via wind turbines also came about, so I am searching for studies to shed some light on the issue.  Initial findings indicate less than one percent of all bird mortality results from anthropogenic causes, emphasis on collisions (Erickson et. al., 2005).  More to come this week upon further research.

As the title of this post may indicate... the temperature dropped this weekend and the rain clouds have claimed over Vinalhaven.  Between the rain and the near record breaking high tides, some shoreline property and roads have been a little soggy.  If you had planned on going to Lane's Island for the Hawk Watch with Kirk, you were better off staying nested in your home as the guided watch was cancelled.

I still find myself treating work as if it were a school assignment and found myself comparing the 2005 Comprehensive Plan with new guidelines/requirements as the review continues.  Thanks to all those who have contributed thoughts, comments, and ideas about the old plan and fuel for the new one this weekend. 
I suppose that is all for now as there is something far more important to focus on... Patriots football!  Let's go Pats.

...til next time

Lions, spiders, and wind turbines.... O MY

It has been a productive and busy week.  I was able to get a tour of the Wastewater facility on Tuesday as KK was getting ready to run routine samples.  After discovering Grimes Park, I thought it would provide a nice perch for the evening sunsets and I might have to rank it at number two at this time... I still find Lane's Island to be a great place to go (less competition with the birds).

Wednesday was a normal day in the office and the Planning Commission meeting missed my calendar, but it was no problem attending.  A trip to Brown's Head Lighthouse prior to the meeting (and a great bowl of chili.. thanks Nick and Marjoie) was a nice midweek treat.  The PC meeting went well and really provided some fuel for the Comprehensive Plan discussion.  I was able to find a focus for my next couple of steps in this process as I have become relatively familiar with the State's requirements. 

Thursday....well Thursday's are always a nice change of pace as I have company in the office.  Early afternnon was spent in the basement with and some of the Energy guru's on the island.  Apparently, there is a lot of heat being lost during the heating season and ideas to increase efficiency were being considered.  I'm not sure a concrete solutino was identified, but I found plenty of spider webs as they sent the young'n down the long run to get dimensions.  Later that night, I was invited to the Lion's meeting and was able to meet some great people with a wealth of knowledge and island history. 

 Finally, today, I am heading over to the wind turbine site to learn more about those.  We shall see how those noise reducing attachments are working (look for some pics from the site visit in the next post)...  'til next time 

OMG... it's so goooorgeous....

The gorgeous fungus growing on decomposing birch limb.

The week wrapped up like a present as I met my weekly office-mate and subsequently the many community members that came in with code/permit questions.  To make things even better, I enjoyed a fantastic dinner at two residences.  The homes, personalities, and quality of cooking here just amazes me (but not in a didn't think it could happen, but a I'm grateful to experience new foods and culinary ideas)!  I look forward to sharing in the potlucks, particularly through the long winters I hear so much about.

Saturday was a bit foggy, but it didn't stop Kirk's fungus walk.  About 15 people showed up at Skoog's Park and we headed to Huberts Preserve to learn about island fungus!  I must say, there is another world when you take 3 hours to walk 2 miles.  Looking forward to the Hawk Watch next weekend!

Busy, Busy, Busy

Meeting, Coastal Clean-Up, meeting, and research.  I finally learned more about the ARCafe today... such a cool place.  It is a non-profit arts and rec center that promotes local foods and engages the community in many aspects.  There is a lot of energy and ideas within the group and I am hoping to contribute to that energy and volunteer if/when I have time. 
The Clean-Up went well as I worked along side the 1st and 8th graders collecting debris at Smith Point.  Some kids saw treasures, some saw trash and others wondered who's boat it came from.
Overall, it was a great day and the Comprehensive Plan research is coming along. 

First Day of Work

So the weekend was full of adventure as I went to Brown's Head Lighthouse, Tip Toe Mountain, The Basin, Fish Hook, Eleanor Campbell, State Beach, and Huber Preserves.  Although small, it is terrific that these places are protected from development, they are truly unique and capture some island wilderness characteristics. 

(I wish I could say where these photos were taken, but I visited so many places this weekend I simply can't remember)

 I also visited Lane's Island as it is quickly becoming an island favorite of mine.  Whether I want to walk the rocky shores collecting driftwood or walk the trails between shorelines capturing the colors of the night's sunset, I am drawn to this preserve and am often lost for an hour or two at a time.




So the first day at the office... Yes, it has been a little while since I've been behind a desk.  Lucky for me I have a window seat and to make it better, the window opens!  (perhaps it'll that Maine wind can keep me awake through the long afternoon)  I am on the second floor of the Town Hall along with three other desks, one of which is inhabited once, weekly and the other two a few times a year... I may have to re-evaluate my friendship with Pandora!  Take a look at my office space and a somewhat limited view from my desk....

While I may be running crazy now, literally and figuratively, I am thrilled to be here and have, officially, started on this project.  I am hoping to participate in the Coastal Clean-Up tomorrow morning as well as follow up with the ARCafe in regards to Food Day (National Day recognizing and promoting local, healthy food choices). 

...'Til next time!

Orientation and Friends

Well it has been a busy week.  I was able to catch that ferry last Sunday, which saved me a parking ticket!  In an effort to keep you reading, I am hoping a few highlights, rather than a day to day recap will suffice. 

Sunday - all the fellows got together at Waterworks for dinner and drinks to kick-off the much awaited orientation week, which thanks to a great cohort of fellows, really wasn’t all that bad.

 

Monday (this may be a longer one because it was so fun) - A "scavenger hunt" helped us become acquainted with the Institute staff followed by a team building session.  A nice competitive game of scrabble, which was won (I think) by Amanda, Hope, Kate and Alex (Hodges) despite their questionable words choices :P.  After that, we had to work together to relocate 18 of us (distributed among 4 platforms) from one platform to another.  Strategic planning and a little bit of trust led to successful transportation of all but one person.  Jen’s flight was a little off target and as I reached for her and grabbed the rope, I fell in the “ocean”.  Our next exercise/activity was one that I always wanted to take part of, HIGH ROPES COURSE!!!  Slightly ironic given my fear of falling, but, again, with a little bit (ok a lot) of trust in our hardware and teammates, I was able to tackle the 30ft rope walk.  The purpose of the ropes course was extrinsic as well as intrinsic.  We had to trust our teammates, understand that no part is too small, and challenge ourselves beyond our normal comfort zone.  Having said that, I changed my mind and scaled the tree and walked across the cable 50ft off the ground.  After all that, we enjoyed a nice dinner at Moody’s and an early night.

Tuesday - Lessons on running effective meetings and facilitating was taught by Ron Beard at the Comfort Inn in Ellsworth.  After that we went to 3Tides for some drinks before Aldin and Annie (I think was her name) joined us for dinner at Darby's.  Many thanks to them for some insight into island life.

Wednesday - A later start time Thursday morning motivated most of us to push through the day with smiles on our faces.  We went to Herring Gut Learning Center where Alex works and saw the aquaponics system we heard so much about leading up to the visit.  A little break from things at the Marshall Point Lighthouse was well spent before the Phil's presentation about the Island Institute’s formation.  A Mexican dinner in Rockland, a Dark and Stormy (with next to no ginger beer), and  quality time at the Time Out Pub provided for great memories with some great people.  

Thursday - Our advisors came out and went through the AmeriCorps aspect/expectations of the program, which of course was soooo fun. Haha.  Being ahead of schedule, as usual, allowed most people to go home that night.  I was still lacking a fingerprint card so I stayed behind and took care of that along with some other things. 

Friday (today) - I caught the 8:45 ferry and with the hour and fifteen minute ride, I couldn't help but think of how much fun was had this week getting to know a great group of new friends.  I am actually looking forward to our retreats and AmeriCorps training throughout the year.  I spent a lot of time today exploring the parks on the island and getting more pictures!  Speaking of which... here is the view from my porch...

  

I saw a Haliaeetus leucocephalus!

So it has been a couple days... but with good reason.  Friday I learned how the ferry works, and not necessarily on my own terms.  Due to my procrastination on Thursday morning I did not get a reserved number, so I was on standby.  I had to go down to the terminal for every ferry waiting, hoping to get on so I could get to Bar Harbor for the big dinner.  Finally, at 1, I was able to get the car on the ferry and with every last drop of gas in the tank I was able to start the car after the ride and get it to a gas station. 

The dinner at Asticou Inn was great!  All the fellows were invited to the Board of Trustees annual dinner and what a pleasure it was to meet them.  Many introductions were made and stories told throughout the night and I look forward to working with, or at least seeing everyone again. 

Saturday morning, we (the fellows) got breakfast together and headed back to our respective islands/working communities.  Saturday evening, while the sun was shining and warm, I thought it would be as good a day as any to head out for a nice sunset walk/photo op.  I went to Lane's Island Preserve, it's soooo nice that it is so close to the appartment!, and what a good hike it was.  As I walked along the shoreline, I began to notice the driftwood, not as just something that was awashed to shore, but as art.... and I will continue this another day.  I got to catch the ferry.  'Til next time

Lane's Island

So today was my first full day on the island and it started out much the same as when I went to bed... overcast/rain!  I dropped the ball this morning and didn't call the ferry terminal when I first woke up, which may cost me (my vehicle) a spot on a ferry tomorrow, we shall see.  After getting a cup of coffee from Island Spirits, I ventured to the Vinalhaven Land Trust office and met Sheri and Tuck.  They shared some stories, trail maps, and advice about Vinalhaven. 
Walking back I got an idea.. ok I got hungry, and thought I might try to make some sort of chowder for dinner.  Looking through the local cookbook for a new recipe I quickly remembered I haven't gotten groceries yet, so I went down the street and checked out the grocery store.  Shortly after that, the sun had finally broke through the clouds and I quickly grabbed my camera and headed for Lane's Island preserve.  The cove appeared to have receded as driftwood, shells, and seaweed was plentiful.  It was easy to fill a couple hours of the day here and a lot of space on my memory card.  Once I get the new computer I should be able to upload the photos on a regular basis. 
Once I returned from my lil adventure, I started the chowder (Corn and Potato).  I used a recipe from the Vinalhaven Cookbook, but as usual, I tweeked it given the ingredients I did/didn't have.  Speaking of which... I went looking for some fresh clams today in town.. no luck!  I did not think they would be hard to come by, but I was told they are something you can only get if you know someone that digs for them or you get em yourself.  I'll have to save the clam chowder 'til I can meet the right people.
Finally, I wanted to ride out to the north end of the island while I still had my car.  I thought it would be a good night to catch the sunset from the Brown's Head Lighthouse.  I never did find it and as the sun was going to set soon, I decided the North Haven thoroughfare was as good a spot as any.  While it was a great spot for photos with all the boats and happenings, the sun set behind the treeline and I was only left with a few colorful streaks.  Well I suppose that is all for today.    

Moved In!

So today was the big day!  Woke up at 4am so I could be sure I'd catch a ferry today, lucky for me I was able to get on the first one.  Typical, or so it seems from my visits to Maine, that it rained, and alllll day at that!  In either case, the town is quiet now that most of the seasonal/summer folk have gone back to their other homes.  I am enjoying my living arrangements as it is a 3rd floor converted attic apartment (one bedroom).  I have a sliding glass door that access my balcony/porch which provides a view looking S/SW over Carvers Harbor and N/NW over Carvers Pond.  After the rents left and I unpacked some of my things I found myself craving some dinner.  The grocery store had already closed so I stopped in at the Island Grill where I enjoyed some local conversations.  Looking forward to what this year on the island will bring!!