Last week was the opening day for some of our farmers markets and we are so grateful to be part of these communities. The opening of outdoor markets is one of the most exciting signs of spring and summer, and such a great way to connect after the winter. Now, more than ever, is a time to support our local farmers and come together in community. Going to a farmers market is one of the best ways to do just that.

Star Wars saved my life.

Author Joan Chittister writes that “equality and community, service and mutual support takes many forms … Simply staying close to the mechanical functions of what it means to get through a day — running the vacuum, washing the dishes, shoveling the snow, doing the laundry, peeling the vegetables, cleaning out the car, making the bed, bathing the children — keeps us all, men and women, aware of the struggles embedded in every dimension of life. It makes us aware of the burdens carried by those around us, in the family and the neighborhood whose full lives we would otherwise never know. It gives us a sense of what it means to be a fully human human being. That kind of shared work makes a family a family and a community a community.”

Invasive plants? Weeds? What’s the difference?

If you have driven out the Pemaquid peninsula in the past several years, you probably have noticed the sweet yellow farmhouse and busy fields across from Bristol Area Library.

Here at Inn Along the Way I can often be found, “dancing with the stars.” These are the points of light that are commonly referred to as “volunteers.”

I was raking up dead leaves when I heard Puddles the goat say, “I can do the job for you.”