Oh, now I remember what I forgot to bring out last week when I put winter clothes away...rain boots. Although we don't have it as bad as our New England friends who are just beginning their mud season, it is certainly wet around here. Our spongy Ashland soil will soaks up all this moisture to ensure that we have lots of humidity as soon as the sun returns. We are the lucky ones.
And speaking of this soggy weather, the first Ashland Street Party of 2018 has had to move to Saturday, June 2nd, at 6:30 PM. You can buy tickets online at here, for $10 each before the show, or $20 each at the gate. Children 12 and under get in free with a paying adult. There will be food and beverages available at the party, so please just bring a lawn chair if you would like a place to sit. 
We are excited to learn that the grand opening for the newly remodeled and restructured Cross Brothers will be next Saturday, May 26th! I think we are all anxious to see what things look like in there, and there will be some veggies, right? Just asking for a friend.
Registration is now open for the Ashland Barracuda Swim Team! Practices will start after school on Thursday, May 24th. Will the pool be filled? Will the water be cold? And what about that snack bar? Well, friends, those mysteries are just one part of the excitement. Sign up your kids, pull out the beach towels, and come find out. Register at www.ashlandswimteam.com.
There is always a cozy corner at your Ashland Library to sit and read a book. It's a perfect retreat if you wanted to get away from things. I wouldn't even think to look for you there. This evening, Thursday, May 17th, there is a fun metal stamping class from 5:00 to 6:00 PM for kids ages 11-18, and this is free like almost everything at the library! Call 798-4072 for more information.
There are so many opportunities to hear good music within walking distance of your Ashland home:
Ashland Coffee & Tea
England Street Tavern
Ironhorse
Enjoy the rain if you can. From my kitchen, I can imagine that train whistles are really boats, and the clank of a flag pole in the wind is actually rigging. You know I love you COTU, but I really wish you had a harbor. Call or email me with your Ashland news: 310-5320, ashlandnews@gmail.com. Have a wonderful weekend! Go buy a newspaper.
