They make vacations possible, more enjoyable, more memorable, more fun, less housework-y. They provide the unseen magic behind the scenes and supply the visible welcome smiles on the front lines. They are the many area businesses, some open only during the summer, others that are open year-round but that ramp up their work and their work forces during the popular, packed summer months. More…

There was a loon out in front of our dock that looked like it was in its death throes or maybe he was wrapped up in fishing line and was trying to get undone. What should I do with him? He seemed to calm down after a while but I didn't know who to call. More…

We were so spoiled by the drought-inspired, past five years of beautiful weather that it was so easy to take it for granted. This has been such an unusually cold and wet summer so far. Don't you think that we deserve a little bit better? More…

Books From Maine: A Raising Readers Collection is five books in one. It comprises five classic Maine children's stories: Camping Day by Patricia Lakin, Dino Pets by Lynn Plourde, Little Beaver and The Echo by Amy Mac Donald, Blueberries for Sal by Robert McCloskey, and Miss Rumphius by Barbara Cooney Porter. More…

Yes, Tokyo television coverage was exciting, but out my window on Great Pond it began soon after 9 a.m. with John in the mailboat. Then along our shoreline glides by 19 kayak or water board girls from Camp Runoia. More…

Recently, my neighbors, Joel and Kathi King, returned from North Carolina with their 8-year-old grandson, Miles, for a week-long visit. Miles is an avid fisherman and Grandma Kathi asked me if I could take him out on Long Pond for a bit. More…