I guess everyone has by now tied things down and is as prepared for whatever Irene brings as we can be. We were at camp yesterday and it didn't seem that the water level was lowered at all, but with so few inches of leeway, it's hard to tell. I expect our waterfronts and the wetlands will get clobbered again.

At 9 a.m. I measured 1.15 in. of rain that's fallen here in the past 24 hours. Ludlow, Vermont reported over 2 in. had fallen there, and some of the other southern counties of Vermont were reporting close to 2 in. Our biggest concern will be the flash flooding and rivers overflowing their banks, which could compromise bridges and will certainly add to the highway costs of towns and the state.









When we were at camp yesterday afternoon, Monika was about to take baby Tangeni, or "Little T" as her aunts and uncles have dubbed her, for a walk in the stroller. That's Monika with Aunt Theresa and Daddy Bill - and Little T, who had just started to drop off for a nap when we interrupted. Big sister, Jo-Ann and two friends were already heading up the road for a walk. Everyone had been having a great day in the water, and the adults were clearing the way for Hurricane Irene.

I think I mentioned that middle son, Bob, played a gig at the Peacham church last weekend with a couple of Peacham School buddies from the 70's, Matt Skoller (harmonica) and Gordy Gourlay (drums). Matt lives in Chicago and has become a really great, well known musician. Here's his website: www.matthewskoller.com
Click on Juke Box to hear his band.

Gordy is a really good drummer, too, and has continued to play in bands while supporting his family with 9-5 jobs. Bob and Gordy were in the Peacham School Band together, with Matt's older brother, Jeff, and several other budding musicians. Peacham School gave them space and encouragement to develop their talents. Some, like Bob and Gordy, went on to make their living for a number of years doing their music; others went on to more conventional jobs, but most have continued to play instruments and write songs for their own enjoyment. All have grown up. When I searched for Matt Skoller's website, I was remembering him as a 12 year old on the sidelines of his big brother's band. Imagine my surprise when his home page popped up and again when I heard his music. Way to go, Matt!

Have a quiet, safe day. I'll be checking e-mail and reporting any news that's sent to me, so if you have pictures or events to share, send them along.