Good morning! Cool but bright - so far, great for working outside. The stiff breeze (spell that w-i-n-d here at Joe's Pond) keeps the black flies off balance so they don't bite, and the fresh, invigorating air puts a spring in one's step. So why am I inside at my computer instead of out pulling weeds or something? Because I want to do a little catching up and in particular wanted to post good news after the last two posts about stupid people chasing defenseless wildlife.

Speaking of wildlife - son Jamie (Dimick) who lives just above us here on W. Shore Road, told me this morning the bear he's seen from time to time recently made another appearance at around 6:30 p.m. yesterday on their lawn. The bear appeared to be curious and was heading for the house, so Jamie went out on the deck and clapped his hands. The bear ran back into the woods - back towards our house. We weren't around last evening (celebrating our anniversary along with Don and Mary Encarnacion down the road - we went to Juniper's on Darling Hill in Lyndonville, a lovely spot and great food and service, but that's another story) so we didn't see anything of him, but I'm sure the bear passes through our property often. Jamie said there have been a few problems in Cabot Village with bears showing up, too. Nothing serious, though.

Evelyn Richer got in touch the other day to let us know about our neighbor Jack Dowd's posting on "youtube." Here's a link: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=oPuwDvTN0DA
We have also put a link to his web site on our web site's "artists" page. I know you'll enjoy seeing his work. I've had his "Weekend in the Hamptons" on my JPA record book for some time now, but didn't realize who the artist was, let alone that he has a cottage right here on Joe's Pond! Gotta love his talent and sense of humor!

Just a couple of reminders, then I'll go outside to work until lunch - don't forget the rummage sale at Cabot on the Fourth. Call Terri Persons, 563-2090 if you have items to donate, or drop them off at the Masonic Hall in Cabot Sat. afternoon, June 30th. Then there's the church benefit auction on July 14th in Cabot - call 563-9999 or 563-2715 for pickup if you have items to donate for that. I will try to list a drop-off spot for you soon.