Such a vital, vivid personality! We, her housemates, have been saddened indeed by Hildegarde Goss’s passing.
We know for sure however, that she would have us shed the sorrow, kick the blues and get happily on with life’s joys. Beware, she will rattle our teeth if we don’t. And so we shall, in fond recognition of the verve and bold pace with which she swung along her colorful way.
A most appropriate memorial flower garden plot is now in bloom just outside her Hamlet House room. Catch a glimpse as you go by. Smile as you enjoy her “Hildegarden’ – with its start of creeping Rosemary.
A savory tradition is building at Hamlet House. For the past year, residents have been treated to some of the tastiest cuisine the Island offers. Monthly — (who knows the date, time, menu, cook, wait-person, bartender or dishwasher?) — a mystery chef appears with a load of scrumptious fodder.
The kindly community folk who volunteer their talent, pantry and family recipes are our heroes. Also, they have found our board and cohorts know a thing or two about the art of friendly persuasion.
Anyhow, we are feted, toasted and filled. The way to the heart is through the tummy.
So, under ideal circumstance, we become friends with many Islanders; as hoped by the Mystery Chef pioneers. We value the fine support and welcome the generosity.
The Mystery Chef concept was designed to tighten the relationship between the Senior Village and the community. We think it has.
A number of prior Mystery Chefs have been listed and we thank them all.
The most recent of these brave and good were Cynthia Dilling and her brother, Ed Gutkowski. Their garden provided just-picked beans, crisp and fresh. This time of year favors bountiful donations of veggies and greens.
Old timers, reflecting on this year’s Parade, concur that our main drag was quite heavily packed. It seemed like more spectators than ever.
Another reflection was on the parade vehicles. The 1930 Model A Ford was pretty posh – fresh cut flower vases, et. al. – reminding a viewer of his first car. Though 80 years old, it couldn’t top the memory of one family’s new 1926 Model T Ford and its jolting jaunts across the West.
Another old mechanical wonder caught Betty Hastins eye: the red tractor used after the War on their large South End farm – replacing the plow horse team.
Betty is our live-in Lopez historian, keeping us straight on Lopez lore.
She’s an authentic source, smiling frequently as she recounts homespun stories. She either knows well or is related to half of the Island population.
As to the traffic, it was heavy. Any more and it may someday play hob with our center of gravity. If these holiday ferry lines get any longer, our poor little Isle may tip a bit at the northern edge; in which case Upright Head might not be as: upright, that is; though thankfully nodding a weary good bye ‘till the next long summer weekend.
