It seems like winter is only here in Maine these days and not much of that with our snow drought going on. I did notice that there were ice shacks out on the lake today and people were enjoying their ice fishing. I also noticed a float plane had landed over on Sheepscot Pond and there was some hubbub going on there too. Seems folks are doing their best to get out and enjoy the season.

If you are looking for some real outdoor fun, check this out! The U. S. National Toboggan Championships are this Friday through Sunday, February 10th –12th at the Camden Snowbowl in Camden. Join in the festivities and compete or just tailgate and be a spectator. Highlights include an ice plunge, design-your-own toboggan contest, chili and chowder challenge, snow maze, sculpture contest and more.

I can’t believe that it’s February and Valentine’s Day is just around the corner. There are still raffle tickets to be had at the 10-4 Store for the Montville Fire Department drawing, which takes place on February 12th. You need not be present to win! Tickets are $1 for 4 chances. The winner gets a big stuffed caterpillar and basket of candy- yum!

Save the Date!  Monday, February 27th because you won’t want to miss the 4th annual PASTABILITIES, Waterfall Arts’ Wintertime Family Fun(d)raiser. This is not your ordinary plate of spaghetti but your chance to sample ravishingly sumptuous, olfactory-stimulating, mouth-watering, divinely appealing gourmet pasta dishes made by caterers, chefs and talented gourmands. They have planned for 2 separate seating times this year to comfortably accommodate everyone in the Waterfall Arts’ Fallout Shelter.  You can choose from 5:00 pm or 6:30 pm to enjoy your meal. Your meal also includes salad, bread, beverage and dessert. Wine and beer will be available. For those with special dietary needs we will have meatless and gluten free choices and traditional sauce for youngsters. The cost is $15 for adults and $5 for children under 12.

Additionally, as this fundraiser is always more than just a meal, there will be a Silent Auction happening in the Clifford Gallery.  From everyday necessities to pamper yourself services, it will be worth your while to place a bid or two or three.  Come have fun, help Waterfall Arts continue to thrive and flourish, and satisfy your hunger all in one great evening. The Pastabilities Fun(d)raiser takes place at Waterfall Arts, 256 High Street in Belfast. The community supported non-profit organization is dedicated to creating community in harmony with nature through the transformative power of the arts. For more information about Pastabilities, classes, exhibitions and studio rentals, visit www.waterfallarts.org or call 338-2222.

Before you know it, April 15th will arrive! Getting your tax information together or wanting to? Stop by the Liberty Library to print out forms! Or come warm up at the library, work on a puzzle, check out the selection of new DVDs or books and get your tax forms online. The Library offers free help for adults in reading and writing through Literacy Volunteers.  If you or someone you know has trouble reading or writing, please call 338-2200 EXT 109 to make arrangements to learn.

I taught adult education for a number of years and realize there are quite a few folks in Waldo County who have managed to become adults and not learned their ABCs for many reasons, some beyond their control. So don’t be ashamed, realize this too can be changed and feel good about asking for help because it is out there. If you are looking to contribute to your community, volunteer!

When I was younger, I could not have imagined saying that I get my news from Facebook but here it is. The Liberty General Store is now on Facebook. That’s right! The new store where the Liberty Trading Post used to be! And they say they are opening around the 23^rd of this month and yes! They will have gas! Hoorah! Soon, people, soon.

And John Ascrizzi is in the kitchen starting to make the ice cream! He says he will probably be open by this weekend, so stop in if you see a silver van parked out front. Liberty slowly comes back to life this time of year. John’s Ice Cream opening is indeed a sign that Spring is coming!

If you have only one smile in you, give it to the people you love.

Maya Angelou