I was looking everywhere for these two, scanning the sidewalks and the grass, walking up and down the paths around the Tabernacle. I had almost given up when I had the thought to look up. And there they were.

This is the kind of repeated scene I will never tire of.

I don’t know about anyone else on stage, but Esme and Tovi are ready for the waltz!

In the midst of painting fake food today we were able to sneak in a little local culture. The girls and I attended a performance of the Martha’s Vineyard Spirituals Choir, led by Jim Thomas of the U.S. Slave Song Project.

The songs were familiar as well as new, especially to the girls, but it was the commentary that made the event special. Stories of slavery and hope and escape and trickery. Personal stories of a great Grandmother born into slavery. Audience questions answered with care and honesty.

The program was part of the larger “2nd Annual Oak Bluffs African-American Literature & Culture Festival” at the Oak Bluffs Library. We will make it an aim to attend more of their programming next year at the 3rd annual gathering.

Took a solo swim after dinner tonight. Just what the doctor ordered.

More work on the prop food for our local production of Cinderella. We’ve made big cheese wheels, legs of meat, a three tiered cake, and three pies. Long, hot, messy work under the hot August sun, but we’re all enjoying it. Now we just need to paint them all!

New summer, same old reading nook!

Mom and I attended a terrific performance today, given by “The Victorian Lady,” Kandi Carle. In the photo above she is wearing drawers, chemise, corset, hoop skirt and hoop skirt cover. But she still isn’t nearly dressed!

From the program:

The presentation is not a fashion show, rather, Ms. Carle takes her audience on a journey of discovery by using clothing and accessories as a tool. She dresses in layer upon layer… and as each piece is added, she explains how it was worn, as well as when and where it was appropriate. Throughout the presentation she shares insights into the clothing, lifestyle, manners, etiquette and customs of men, women and children including great accessories from brands as The Fifth Collection and others. Included are interesting anecdotes and ‘myth busting.’

She was a wonderful performer and had the audience in her thrall the entire time. And I think that everyone learned a thing or two that they didn’t know before.