Peaks Fest even dozen

Summer is now official. Peaks Fest, our annual community show of spirit, launched this year’s events with another swell t-shirt by my better half, Marty.

Everybody gets into the act, including the Gem Gallery, with an exhibit called “Treasure & Applesauce” that featured cherished objects, things that hold great beauty, cleverness, and strength of spirit, and nothing for sale. We shared a faded but lovely baby quilt made by Marty’s grandmother.

And a wooden whirlygig made by a dearly departed neighbor, Harry Hults, a replica from a Trefethen model, since our house is a Trefethen landmark.

I confess we skipped the opening Schmoozefest ceremony to go to a long-awaited show at the State Theater with David Byrne and St. Vincent. Pre-show anticipation was spent gazing at the brass on stage. Each instrument was spotlighted, a hint towards the key role they played in the amazing performance.

Favorite song? This must be the place.

On Saturday I had fun at the island authors table during Dock Day. I’m flanked here by Kathy Newell, whose new book, Island Walks, packs quite the visual punch of island views. Next is Laima Vince, Fullbright scholar and renowned teacher of writing. In the back is my mentor, Anne Sibley O’Brien, whose latest, Path of Stars, is stunning. My t-shirt twin is the infamous George Rosol, whose This Island Life chronicles the cast and character of Peaks in witty essays originally from the Island Times.

Between the ferry crowds we enjoyed a serenade from Sam Saltonstall and Annie.

And followed by some blues, thanks to Kevin Attra and his horn player.

There’s nothing more fun than some eager readers of books, though! These kids had to dive in.

Ahoy, the new Book Moblie made a visit, too!

After a rousing parade led by a big chicken, our little chick got ready for the Grease sing-along at the Peaks Island Branch Library.

Here’s my chicken sketch for good measure:

Summer won’t be that lazy. I’m back to the drawing board with two posters for Portland Stage underway, two new children’s books in the pipeline, two drawing workshops to teach in July, two art exhibits, two library visits coming up, and 2 book ideas on the back burner. There’s my even dozen right there!