I had mentioned that on Thursday Ray and I attended a benefit luncheon for the Children's Art Program at the Cedar Key Arts Center.  I was amazed at the turn-out.....about 70 people there and it's so gratifying to see how so many residents support various benefits here on the island. 

It was held at the Island Room (my favorite restaurant here) and I was surprised to find out that  Peter and Gina, the owners, had not only allowed their restaurant to be used but didn't charge one penny for the food.  We had a delicious three-course gourmet lunch.....$15 per person, plus tax and tip.  All of the money went to the Arts Center for the children.  Now that's community kindness.  And......all of the staff that worked the luncheon did so for tips only.  Just another example of how this island and it's kindnesses continue to impress me.

To raise additional money, they had a raffle for original art by local artists.  I had the pleasure of having the first ticket number called and won the above painting.  It's done by Joy Witman and I'd had my eye on it when I first arrived there.  Her husband, Bob, did all of the framing for the paintings.  I needed one more piece to hang in the guest bath and here it is....it'll go well with my colors in there. 

Duncan is 8 weeks old today.....hard to believe I've had him 2 weeks already.  He fits in so well here, it's like we've had him forever.  He sure is good with the sleeping now, going from about 10 at night till 6:15 or so in the morning.  He also is adjusting to his crate for sleeping and when we have to leave the house.  Potty training?  Well....I do think he's doing pretty good for only 8 weeks old.  Of course, "I" am the one that's trained at this point....getting him outside when he wakes, after meals, etc.  He hasn't quite gotten it about going to the door and scratching....but in time, that'll come too.

I was out in the yard about 6:15 this morning, coffee in hand, waiting for Duncan to do his thing.  All of a sudden, I looked up and saw a flock of white Ibis flying in from the salt marshes, right over my head, heading onto the island.  Have you ever been fortunate enough to witness this scene early morning or in the evening when they're heading back out to the Gulf islands?  It's the most incredible sound I've ever heard.....in the silent air, all you can hear are their wings....and I was told by a local that it's the sound of "angel whispers."  I have to agree....no other sound compares in the stillness of morning.  The sounds, sights and beauty of nature on the island continue to enthrall me.

Enjoy the beauty of nature surrounding you today and don't forget to set your clocks ahead tonight.  See you tomorrow........