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3/30/25

I was away this past weekend and was very glad when I came home to find no snow or ice on my driveway! Friends sent me pictures of the ice coated trees that looked like spun glass. I understand that parts of Plymouth were without power for part of the day.

A reminder about the author visit at Fletcher Memorial Library in Ludlow on Monday, 3/31 at 6 PM. Come learn about Pollyanna Porter’s fictitious Langdon VT, then on 4/10 join the book discussion with Friends of the Library of Animal, Vegetable, Miracle by Barbara Kingsolver. We hope to sample some of the recipes too!

3/24/25

Starting out the week with some snow, although at one point it sounded more like sleet. Looks like winter cannot read the calendar and does not know it is spring! I am aware of people who have already removed their snow tires, perhaps a bit prematurely.

The lakes and streams are still high, but hopefully there will not be any damaging flooding. If you are interested in hearing about local (including Plymouth)) planning for flood resiliency, consider attending the workshop on Thursday, 3/27 at the Ludlow Town Hall at 6:30 PM.

The reading group met at the Echo Lake Inn on 3/19 and had a lengthy discussion about Ann Vickers. It was not one of our favorite books, although it did highlight some issues that may still need addressing today. We were able to be on Zoom as well, which allowed other folks to participate. I find that I am reading books that would not ordinarily come to my attention, so it is stretching me a bit. Note the following books for the next few months.

1. Thursday, April 24 at 6:30 pm: A Walk in the Woods by Bill Bryson

2. Wednesday, May 21 at 6:30 pm: A Month in the Country by JL Carr

3. Wednesday June 11 at 6:30 pm: The Stolen Hours by Alan Eskens

Fletcher Memorial Library has learned of probable Federal funding cuts. There are so many wonderful programs lined up and it would be a shame if there are disruptions. Check out their website www.fmlnews.org. The Monday, 3/31 author visit at 6PM will explore the possibly fictitious place of Langdon VT. Friends of Fletcher Memorial Library will be leading the discussion of Animal, Vegetable, Miracle by Barbara Kingsolver on Thursday 4/10 at 10:30 AM.

Just in case the need arises, I found a new word the other day. Bumptious means self-assertive or proud to an irritating degree, arrogance.

3/17/25

It’s St Patrick’s Day and I won’t be going anywhere to wear my “Top of the Morning” pin. My father was Irish, but it seems that most people like to celebrate the day – corned beef and cabbage and green beer! I know that some places have practically no snow remaining. Here on Dublin Rd, there is plenty and it still looks like winter! I hope the rain last evening cleared the lake. At dinner at the Echo Lake Inn with a friend on Saturday evening, there were dozens of ducks in the open water at the lighted bridge. When we came out they were flying frantically round and round in circles. On Sunday morning I noticed that the lakes had very few open spaces, but hopefully that has changed.

The Plymouth book group will meet in the living room of the Echo Lake Inn (thanks, Tom) on Wed, 3/19 at 6:30 PM to discuss Ann Vickers by Sinclair Lewis. The social work scene during the Coolidge era is presented warts and all. We are hoping to have a zoom link as well.

Kerry Keilman has a lovely family-owned Yamaha Baby Grand Piano GC1 model, dimensions: 161 by 149 cm, that she can no longer keep. Interested individuals can contact her at kmkeilman@outlook.com for further details.

Please note that the Just Getting By Film Screening at Ludlow Town Hall Auditorium has been rescheduled for Wed, 3/26 at 6:30pm. This is a free event with support from the Vermont Humanities Council.

Coming up on 3/31 at 6 PM join author Pollyanna Porter at Fletcher Memorial Library and get to know her endearing characters from the fictitious place called Langdon.

I have recently had a conversation with Tish Lewis from the Reading-West Windsor Food Shelf located just over the hill at 3456 Tyson Rd in Reading to learn about their services. They are open on Thursdays every week from 3-6 pm. The first hour is reserved for seniors. They have fresh produce, dairy foods such as eggs, butter, cheese, yogurt and sour cream. They also have frozen meat, shelf stable foods and some dry goods, plus paper towels, laundry detergent, dish soap, and personal care items.

3/9/25

Wednesday’s warm temps and rain diminished the snow a bit, but revealed all the dirt embedded in the snowbanks. Then the return of cold weather turned everything into ice. I am grateful to have been well-sanded, but I noticed some driveways looked scary! The recent snow flurries have whitened things up, but care is needed because now the ice is hidden. I believe the weather has been good for sugaring, however.

Our Town Meeting was cordial and articles passed easily. It was wonderful to see the video of the smiling faces and enthusiasm of some of our local youngsters. I believe that it helped to shift the emphasis to the students needs and perhaps lessen the angst about the high cost of education in VT. The Mountain View School budget passed. As was the case with many towns, it was voted to eliminate the Listers and hire a professional appraiser.

I attended the wonderful Yoh Theatre production of As You Like It (adaptation by Shaina Tyaub and Laurie Woolery) It was a high-energy musical featuring students of various ages. Josey Flaster and Jackson Fellows were part of cast. Hope I didn’t miss any other local youngsters. Such fun to watch!

I have received a referral from the VA about a man in his 80’s who lives alone in town with his dog and would like to have folks visit or to receive phone calls. Please get in touch with me for the contact info if you would like help.

Fletcher Memorial Library presents Between the World and Me For One Day of Freedombook Discussion on Mon 3/10 at 6PM. For the young-at-heart, form a team and enjoy the Puzzle Challenge at Fletcher Memorial Library on Sat, 3/22 from 11 to 1:00. Prize for the fastest team!

Plan to attend Community brunch at Ludlow Community Center Cafeteria Wednesday, 3/12, 37 Main Street, Ludlow at 10 AM. All are welcome, free of charge, sponsored by Black River Good Neighbor Services and Ludlow Parks and Recreation

Strength & Balance Training Class starting Wednesday, 3/19 at 1 PM at Ludlow Community Center. Classes will be held twice/weekly for ten weeks. Pre-registration required. Call Corey at Black River Good Neighbor Services – 802-228-3663

Can’t attend the meeting? That’s okay. Click the link to listen starting at 7:00 pm.

youtube.com/OkemoValleyTV

The Memory Cafe will take place on Thursday 3/13 from 11:00 – 1:00 at the Ludlow United Church. It allows time for caregivers to meet for discussion, while also providing activities and stimulation for those experiencing memory issue. Black River Good Neighbor Service runs this remarkable free program the second Thursday of each month with games, music, and lunch.

For more information, call Joan at 802-228-4145

3/3/25

This Monday morning is glorious – bright blue sky and sunshine sparkling off the snow. It was minus 5 at my house today, although it is now in the teens. The Town meeting is at 7 PM this evening and there are several issues that will be under discussion. Good communication is so important and the lack of it leads to many problems. My hope is that the dialogue can remain respectful and kind. Don’t forget to vote the Australian ballot issues on Tuesday!

Please remember to check out the happenings at Fletcher Memorial Library. There are many good programs for all ages and interests being offered. Bear in mind that as a town, we provide support for FLM and it does serve Plymouth, too.

The Memory Cafe will take place on Thursday 3/13 from 11:00 – 1:00 at the Ludlow United Church. It allows time for caregivers to meet for discussion, while also providing activities and stimulation for those experiencing memory issue. Black River Good Neighbor Service runs this remarkable free program the second Thursday of each month with games, music, and lunch. For more information, call Joan at 802-228-

2/24/25

Nice to have it a bit warmer today (Monday). I went snowshoeing with a friend at Camp Plymouth State Park yesterday and we were surprised by the lack of people there. A couple with two small dogs passed us at the end of our outing, but we had the park to ourselves! I will admit that it was strenuous going through the deep snow, but invigorating, too!.

It is amazing to hear about the leaks many folks are experiencing this year. One friend shared the horrific story of ice dams forming under their solar panels causing substantial leaks inside. My leaks have subsided due to the hard work on my ice dams by a neighbor. Now to restore the stains on my wood…

I imagine everyone is aware that next Monday, 3/3 is the Town Meeting at 7 PM. There will be several important items to discuss, including the elimination of the Listers office and appointment of an assessor. Please check out the info on the Town website to see what else will by voted that evening. It is important to be kept up-to-date on town issues and plans, then to voice your opinions I hope that many people will attend. Plus, it is a good opportunity to visit with other townsfolk! The Australian ballot voting will happen on Tuesday between 10 AM and 7 PM.