NOVEMBER COMING DOWN

                             The Rain is raining all around,
                             It falls on field and tree.
                             It rains on the umbrellas here, 
                             And on the ships at Sea

                                        Robert Louis Stevenson

This is one of my favorite poems, made up by a very small boy who had to stay inside most of his life.  I used to say it to myself while looking at the California rain and the sodden gray skies and see the "ships at sea" in my imagination.
 I truly rejoice to see rain.  Not just to have grey, leaden skies above me, but to know the Earth needs it so badly and we've had so little in the past 4 winters.  And, since those California days, I've had my fill of snow and am now thankful for puddles and drips and umbrellas to hide under as the rain thunders off the top!
Sunday I was strolling around in the rain and chanced upon the Bistro Rain Spout, taking a photo of the splashing water gushing from the roof.

There are 2 important get-togethers  that I'd like to promote.

Number one, coming this Saturday, the 7th of November at 1:30 p.m., is the Chemainus Garden Residents Association's first meeting.  It will be at the Pavilion. Please come ready to vote in a group of people to represent you. There is a full slate of people willing to stand for election.  There are posters on the Mailbox bulletin board and in the Washhouse.

Number 2 is the upcoming Jazz Night. If you are at the meeting for the Residents and would like to purchase tickets, come ready to get those.  Jazz night is on November the 13, doors open at 6:30.  Tickets are $25.00 and on sale at the office or Kolleen can help you.  Sounds like a lot of fun for those who love a good band of Jazz players.

Now another thing that I've mentioned to several people that they did not know about is the Christmas Craft Fair at Providence Farm.  It is the best of the best in this area and has lots to do for a family or a couple. I've put the poster in here for information.  2 of our own artists are going to be there: Lyn Rose and Charles Van Gorkom.  Lyn will be offering hand painted wooden eggs, an assortment of Christmas ornaments and dog sweaters....probably lots more, but that'll give a clue.

Charles is offering his coin purses in differing colors. Both have been busy making their wares and they can be seen there. From 9-3 it is open and it is a wonderful event. Everything is handmade and not just the tired old stuff.  Some real works of art there and made on the Island. If you've never been...try it. You won't be disappointed! If you need directions go online or call them.Hay rides, tree sales and food are all part of the offerings.

Providence Farm itself without the magic of Christmas all around, is a beautiful old place with lots of local History. I could suggest a few people go together and have a day of it.

I wanted to recognize Larry Duckworth for doing a really Community Friendly thing:  making the dog water bowls in the Dog Park and also a place for the dog bags to go. He did this at his own cost, so a big thank you is in order. Thanks, Larry!

Remember to please pick up after your Dog!

Cheers for now...