The heat is on! Even in Maine where we usually smile sympathetically at the sweaty, parched folks in Southern New England and the rest of the country. But thankfully our beaches and lakes abound to enjoy the moment, with frequent ice cream breaks.
The springtime brought a couple of great opportunities to connect with the Maine Asian communities. I attended the Jewish-Asian Friendship Dinner in Portland which was an extraordinary event allowing so many thriving cultural and religious communities to be in one place to share remarks, stories, world food, and solidarity.
Just days later, CAFAM hosted the annual spring picnic to vote in the board to their next term and share a potluck and conversation. Then, right before the school year ended my friend from CAFAM and amazing third grade teacher Kelly invited me into her classroom to lead a craft celebrating the Dragon Boat Festival. I had to dust off my classroom teaching hat but she was so prepared with a pre-visit unit with her students and schedule, I could not go wrong! (I was still nervous.)
Now I am in full summer mode which includes a few trips to Chinatown Boston! I was lucky enough to be invited by Chinatown Main Street, the same organization that hosts Lunar New Year. I’ve been setting up crafts on the plaza outside the China Trade Center. My offerings haven’t been super popular haha, but the organizers have been happy about my participation. I certainly don’t expect to compete with all of Boston’s exciting events this summer…. the World Cup, America 250, 4th on the Esplanade and the Tall Ships, just to name a few!
I’m savoring every summer day, the sunshine, and all the little pleasures. There are so many local events, festivals, and beautiful places to visit, and hopefully there will be a steady stream of friends and family passing through to enjoy them with me. It’s a dark time for America, and even for Maine. Finding the pearls and the kindness and the joy and the good people gives me the strength and balance I need to engage in positive work to help turn things around. Thank you for sticking with me and Lucky Bamboo Crafts. Keep creating!
