Upton

On Saturday, Alexandra Bernier celebrated her fifth birthday at the home of her grandparents, Andre' and Flossie Bernier of Rumford. On Sunday, Flossie brought Alexandra and Sheila Bernier, Melissa, Dee and Kaylee McCall, all of Cameron, S.C., to South Upton for a five-minute tour of our cabin and a visit. Nice.

Only 10 days until the sesquicentennial celebration! Things are coming together. Have you seen the flyers and posters and articles in the newspapers? Even more "stuff" has been added -- like an art show by Melanie Farmer! Several neighboring towns are putting their fire trucks in the parade. I've heard that the selectmen will be entering a float and that two adorable little guys from Casco will be marching in their Halloween costumes.

I've made many attempts to re-tell the hysterical, engaging saga that Bobby Thompson told as we sat around his campfire, involving a mouse, rice krispy squares, Texas fly-swatter, sticky mouse traps, ice and water shield, dancing on the stairs, the mouse's final demise and his return the next morning to Bobby's porch. All my attempts have been flat and sadly lacking in translation. The story needs the ambience of the firepit, and Bobby's animation and inflection to be enjoyed to it's fullest potential. So, if you get an invitation to sit around his campfire, grab it -- it'll be an experience you won't soon forget.

Until next week, Selah.