Long Island celebration

What fun to island hop for another celebration of summer reading, this time at the Long Island Library.

As a long-time member of the Island Institute, I enjoy learning about other islands, but visiting them is too rare. The logistics of going “down the bay” requires first a trip to Portland on Casco Bay Lines and then another ferry to another 4 stops. What would have been about an hour-plus of ferry time became a 15 minute trip on a water taxi instead, thanks to my host.

But man, was it a soupy morning.

No horizon line visible, and nothing to see in our wake, either.

Captain John joked, “hope we find Long!”

Yes, we happily did. Marci Train, teacher and year-round islander met me at the dock. I met such a fine flock of kids, parents, grandparents, and visitors.

photo by Marci Train

After telling about my process for illustrating Island Birthday and reading the story, kids assembled planes and decorated them.

Nimble fingers needed!

Many were curious about trying my pastels. This young artist, without any prompting, used his kleenex to make soft smudges on his drawing.

After planes were flown and balloons were popped, Marci showed me her K-2 classroom between discussions with colleague Paula Johnson in her 3-5 classroom.

Island schools are the heart of a year-round community. Hats off to these two teachers who keep learning alive in their classrooms full of big windows and new horizons! I have fond memories of chaperoning field trips from the Peaks Island School to Long way back when. Marci is preparing for a new year on two levels: her daughter, like mine, is off to college.

Marci gave me a quick tour of Long. I wanted a new perspective, looking for a view of Peaks, but the fog prevailed.

This ghostly view of Pumpkin Knob on the ride home reminded me of my last visit to Long Island, with author Robin Hansen.

Our book, Ice Harbor Mittens, is all about knowing your way in the fog.

Thanks to Long Island Library for another memorable visit!