After another week of “kinda summer” it makes you remember why this is the most wonderful place to live. Even though my husband hasn’t yet been able to paint his ‘59 Ford pickup because of the humidity, things are also looking up for that project. I see much activity in the fields and gardens, so that is more good sign. Actually I love the rain but some sun is always welcome.

News from Naselle:

Activity is ramping up for the Finnish American Folk Festival in Naselle. The three day family friendly event will take place July 23 through July 25, and there is something for everyone.

The Naselle-Grays River Valley school campus will be jumping with activities starting on Friday, with singing and dancing as well as “Mummu” stories interspersed throughout the programs. Saturday will bring the Paavo Nurmi Run beginning at 8 a.m. with the Marimba Band playing as the runners complete the race. Opening ceremonies for the festival will begin at 10 a.m. after which the Maypole dancers will perform and then the long awaited Wife Carry and Boot Toss. The rest of the day will be taken up by more dancing, singing and music from the Marimba Band. A community worship service will be held on Sunday morning at 10 a.m. with a coffee hour at 11 a.m. in the Commons. At 1 p.m. there will be a celebration of 100 years at Peaceful Hill Cemetery.

In addition to all the planned events there will be a salmon dinner at 11 a.m. in the Commons and many other exhibits and demonstrations. Enjoy authentic Finnish dishes, arts and crafts, war memorabilia, a Kantele room with workshops, genealogy workshop, a quilt exhibit, an exhibit of Audrey Wirkkala’s photos, train rides for kids, a gillnet boat and an opportunity to talk with some published authors in the 4th grade taught by Alan Bennett.

It is truly amazing how something this big can be put together by these dedicated volunteers, and it is an event not to be missed. Bring the family and enjoy.

Other news from the Westend:

The Farm on Grays River Bed and Breakfast, which is located just south of the Altoona/Pillar Rock Road Bridge, is now open for your pleasure It is situated right on the river, overlooking the beautiful mountains in the distance, where you can walk along the river’s edge and relax in the solitude of the Grays River Valley.

Also located on the property is Georgene Scott’s old historical barn that is filled with antiques and unique items from her many trips to Mexico and elsewhere. She has quite a collection of items for sale, in particular a beautiful wall hanging tapestry from Mexico. Scott’s Barn is open on Saturday and Sunday from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. and weekdays by appointment. On holiday weekends, the Barn will also be open on Fridays. For more information, contact Georgene Scott at 465-2227.

Free swimming at the Cathlamet pool is available to kids from the Westend on Saturdays with the exception of July 17 and August 21. Transportation is provided by Wahkiakum on the Move, and pickup points and times are as follows: Johnson Park (old Rosburg School) at noon returning at 2:45 p.m. and Grays River Café at 12:10 p.m. returning at 3 p.m. Sounds like a great way to spend the afternoon as it warms up.

Don’t forget Bald Eagle Days and the Wooden Boat Festival this weekend in Cathlamet. We certainly live in an area with family friendly events, don’t we?

The Wednesday Senior Lunch Bunch that meets at Rosburg Hall will enjoy a great summer menu on the 21st. It’s “build your own” sandwiches, salads and dessert.

A little birdie told me that Norm and Joyce Bolton are off to Hawaii for a couple of weeks for some nice rest and relaxation.

Senior lunches are also served on Tuesdays and Thursdays sponsored by CAP. These two venues are a wonderful way to enjoy a nutritious meal as well as get to know your neighbors.

Birthdays being celebrated this coming week include Doug Larson and Susan Gradt on the 15th; Courtney Peters and John W. Wirkkala on the 16th; Bryan Torppa and Lori Gollersrud on the 17th; Barbara Donlon, Emily Gudmundsen, Fran Noll, Kendra Leeland and Bailey Olson on the 18th; Katherine Herrold, Caroline Badger, David Klinger and Haley Bryant on the 19th; Adam Cash, Ken Tetz and Levi Wasmundt on the 20th; Eric Leaf, Lindsay Cary, Dorothy Smith and Sirkka Wirkkala on the 21st. Happy Birthday everyone.

Happy Anniversary to the following couples this week: Lorne and Marilee Wirkkala on the 16th; Pete and Barbara Donlon and Mark and Miriam Galbraith on the 17th; Steve and Vanessa Leamy on the 19th; Joe and Lori Hurst and Glen and Rhonda Smalley on the 21st.

Time to wish my wonderful husband, Del another Happy Birthday. He will enjoy his favorite cheesecake on Tuesday. As an added bonus he also shares his special day with one of our granddaughters, Abigail who lives in Stockton, Calif. She and her family were here for a week over the Fourth of July. Happy Birthday to both of you.