BETTYE FOSTER BAKER

508-696-9983

(bdrbaker@comcast.net)

Happy summer! Happy Fourth of July! How wonderful it is to be back on the Island after a long, snowy winter in Pennsylvania. It occurs to me each spring, when I return, that this is a revered destination. A place where if only for a few days or weeks we can get in touch with a universal need to change rhythm to a more Zen-like existence; to shed the stresses of the year and pause to examine in depth that which we have been too busy to appreciate during the year.

The Navahos have a concept called “walk in beauty.” According to their belief, walking aligns the inner spiritual harmony with that of our surroundings. Walking mindfully to observe our surroundings, lifts us, oh so gently, out of mindless routine and obliterates ritual as small and large secrets are revealed that hide between the rush and bustle of day-to-day living. In every instance the new and unexpected can not only be welcoming, but renewing and inspiring.

I had such an experience in our Arts District recently while walking mindfully. I peeked into nooks and crannies around the Dragonfly Gallery, never explored before, and enjoyed it so much that I returned to chat with some of the people who live there. As a result of my conversations, I decided to focus the first column of the season on the treasures found while walking. The make-over in front of the Dragonfly Gallery and adjacent cottages is unmistakably a charmer, but it is the gardens in back that take the prize. I ventured inside the Dragonfly and met Susan Davy and her husband artist, Don McKillop, new owners of the gallery who have just completed a magnificent garden in back and I asked for a close-up.

The space, designed by Evangeline and Company is one of three unique, visually shared gardens which unite in perfect harmony, though owned by three different residents: Martha Adelman, Thad Harshbarger and wife Judy Hartford, former owner of the Red Mannequin, now owner of Bananas in West Tisbury. The garden design is grounded by a beautiful curving, pink-hued walkway, constructed of Tennessee crab orchid stone, which separates the back of the Dragonfly and three avant-garde cottages which are banked by rose and boxwood topiaries, miniature and large hostas, and tiny flower jewels that grow lazily in bright sun and shady spots. A magnificent rose-colored Shiraz Japanese maple is planted in front of the Adleman cottage and is the showpiece.

As I stood beneath a tall oak tree, Susan asked if I could hear the chirping of newborn black-cappeed chickadees, thriving in the little Santa Fe bird house hanging from the limb of the tree. I did, relishing that quiet moment which allowed for such a small pleasure. At that instant, I could only think of what it might be like to have morning coffee or a deep mediation here and better still have such a space in my own backyard! What a wonderful combination of talented people who share this space. Don and Susan are organizing a stroll around the Arts District on July 10, so when you come down, peek inside if you’re walking down Vineyard avenue and Dukes County avenue, but don’t go inside — just steal a look from the street out of respect for the owners’ privacy. A gaze down the stone walkway into this irresistible space is a Zen experience worthy of living in the moment.

And don’t limit yourself to the Arts District. One can find a bit of Zen on Circuit avenue as well, though that may appear to be an oxymoron, given our status as the hip social happening place on the Island. I suggest you take the time to sit in the tiny courtyard tucked between Cousen Rose Gallery and L’Elegance. Early afternoon is best when art displayed in the window of Cousen Rose Gallery can be leisurely appreciated; where objets d’art are placed lovingly on open shelves and other unique creations are on display at L’Elegance. Then, go inside both galleries to savor some beautiful art, jewelry and home furnishings. This section of Circuit avenue is peaceful and also a superb spot for people watching from the neat bench placed in the courtyard just for you.

Does the possibility of Zen exist on New York avenue? Indeed it does in a space inhabited by Sue Bennett. It is irresistible. Nothing says summer like this tiny, yellow stucco cottage with its lush window boxes filled with vibrant geraniums, and New Guinea impatiens. Low-growing hostas, delicate ferns, and potted jewel colored flowers, tucked in unexpected spaces dot the yard. Flower beds along the front of the cottage are planted with multi-colored shade-loving plants. Small garden ornaments and baskets hang from trees at the entrance. This bright, cheerful yard draws attention from walkers, drivers and is simply charming. There is no space which is not honored by a flower. I have complimented Sue’s garden more than a few times. She not only plants gardens but is also a garden consultant.

Many summer residents are on the Island. Cottages have been opened, gardens planted, all in readiness for the Fourth of July. Dr. Dannetta Thornton-Owens arrived recently after limited visits last summer since the death of her beloved husband, Ken Owens. It was wonderful seeing her, though we know it will be a challenge for her to return to their dream cottage they designed and had built several years ago. However, Dannetta looked wonderful and there are many who will be there for her this summer.

The Island and Cottagers lost three, longtime summer residents: Helen (Betty) Jennings, Helen (Mycki) Webb and Joan Marshall. A memorial service for Helen Jennings will be held today, July 2, at 10 a.m. at Union Chapel. All are welcome. Balloons will be released at the Narragansett beach wall after the service, followed by a repast at the family cottage for family and friends.

It was also great seeing Paula and Hansel Tookes, an avid Polar Bear, enjoying breakfast at Farm Neck Golf Course. They had just arrived from their winter digs in Palm Beach Gardens, Fla. Speaking of the Bears, they will have their opening ceremony and potluck breakfast at the Inkwell on July 4 at 7:30 a.m. All are welcome to take out a $5 membership and join the group for that first swim. Bring a dish if you like.

Congratulations to Dawn Baxter and Derrin Woodhouse on their recent marriage on May 30 this year. Dawn is the youngest daughter of Dr. Thelma Baxter and Bill Baxter of Oak Bluffs. Derrin is the son of Beverley and Arthur Woodhouse of Westbury, N.Y. Dawn works as the music manager in the entertainment marketing department at Nike. Derrin is director of consumer marketing for Vevo, an online music site owned by the Universal Music Group. The couple honeymooned in Costa Rica and will be on the Island for July Fourth.

The Martha’s Vineyard Branch of the National Association for the Study of African American Life and History (ASALA) has planned an exciting 2010 summer program. The first general membership meeting was held July 1 at the Oak Bluffs senior center. On July 23, the branch will host its annual Pat Mathews potluck dinner from 4:30 to 7:30 p.m. Bring a guest who might be a potential member and a dish. The signature event, Vineyard Men who Cook, initiated by Dr. Roger Morris, will be held August 18, from 4 to 7 p.m. at the Sailing Camp. Sample specialty dishes and desserts will be cooked by Vineyard men. This should be a fun-filled event not to be missed.

The Cottagers Inc. has a new Web site, cottagerscornermv. Go online and check out their summer fundraisers for community charities. Trivia and Treasure will be held at Cottagers Corner, 57 Pequot avenue on July 10, from 9 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. Come out and find that unique piece at bargain prices. The 28th annual Cottagers house tour will be held July 15, from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. rain or shine. Come out and savor four historical and contemporary cottages. Advance tickets are available now at C’est La Vie, Cousen Rose Gallery, and L’Elegance at a cost of $20 per person. On the day of the tour tickets can be purchased at Cottagers Corner across from Hartford Park beginning at 9 a.m. Look for the colorful windsocks to identify the residences. All proceeds go Island charities.

Author Thomas Dresser has a new book out this week, African Americans on Martha’s Vineyard: from Enslavement to the Presidential Visit, published by History Press. The book is available at Edgartown Books and Bunch of Grapes. His first book talk and signing is scheduled for the Oak Bluffs Library on Friday, July 9 at 11 a.m. 

Does Mansion House have a treat for you the entire month of July! The health club is offering, free of charge, a class open to all in pilates, strength training, and hard core on Sundays at 5:30 p.m.

On Saturday, July 3, at 10 a.m., come out and join the Tabernacle annual children’s Independence Day parade. Participants are asked to gather at West Clinton street before 10 a.m.

On Sunday, July 4, at 10 a.m., the Union Chapel interdenominational service will feature Richard L. Taylor, professor of business, law and ethics at Suffolk University in Boston. The title of his talk is The Declaration of Independence: A 21st Century Perspective. Informal attire is acceptable.

The Tabernacle interdenominational services will be held at 9:30 a.m. for the months of July and August. The Rt. Rev. Geralyn Wolf, Episcopalian, will preach. Anyone who wishes to join the choir should come to rehearsal on Saturdays at 9:30 a.m. No auditions are required.

Hey, kids, check out the Oak Bluffs Library and the summer reading program, Adopt a Polar Bear. When you earn 800 polar bear points, The Black Dog Kids will donate money for the library to adopt a polar bear through the species adoption program of the World Wildlife Fund. Go sign up and begin to earn those points.

Have a special celebration or event in the works? Guests coming to share the Island experience? E-mail me and tell me all about it. All the best!