Family

It has been so much fun having my son and some of his family on the island for a few days. Zoe is eleven years old and she has been helping me at Village Craftsmen. In less than an hour I was able to teach her how to "count back change." (How many college students can do that?) She has also been helping out by wrapping pottery, running errands, and sweeping the porch. I'll miss her when she goes back to the mountains.

As a special treat, Zoe and Lachlan and I biked down to Springer's Point and walked the trail out to the sound shore. We met Len, the caretaker, and two folks from the Coastal Land Trust. Lachlan and I trudged through the underbrush and marsh and briars to show them the grave of Daniel Tolson (Zoe stayed behind because she was not wearing long pants). After we got back Lachlan and Zoe explored the beach and built a small sand castle. In too short a time we headed back home for lunch.

Tonight we're all going out for a pot luck dinner with friends. Not only are Stefen, Snee, & Zoe here -- a major reason to celebrate. But today is also Amy's birthday. Happy Birthday, Amy! It's so wonderful to have you living next door (by the way, can I borrow a cup of sugar?).

This month's newsletter discusses the planned replacement of the seven bridges on Ocracoke Island in early 2008, and explains some of the issues we will face. You can read it here.