Please join me on a little trip to Nantucket this month! I’d like to highlight some of the things I love about this island, and what makes it so special to me. I’ve been coming to the island since I was a child. I’ve owned five homes here, including one in town (the historic Captain Parker house) and one in Monomoy, as well as my current home in Madaket. In the summer, all roads lead to Nantucket.
The Captain George Parker House
Not only do I live here part time and work here, I also shop here, and do my best to support the good works of Nantucket’s charitable foundations and non-profit organizations. It’s my way of giving back to the community that’s given so much to me. August is a wonderful month. There’s so much going on–the town is bustling, the shops are busy, parties are everywhere and the community is happy to support the many fabulous events in honor of some very deserving organizations.
The Dane Gallery
Glass artist Robert Dane and his wife Jayne operate The Dane Gallery at 28 Centre Street. I’m a collector of Robert’s beautiful glassware and bought some wonderful cobalt blue glasses there this summer. Robert and Jayne represent artists working in glass, basketry, ceramics and wood; they’re one of the premier contemporary art galleries in the country. Visit them online here. The photo below is whale art by artist Raven Skyriver: another example of his artwork is in this month’s What I Love post.
Walk Now for Autism Speaks: August 17
Once again, my husband Frank, our three Bichons (Tuffy, Ellie and G.G.) and I will participate in the signature fundraiser for Autism Speaks, their annual Walk Now for Autism Speaks, to raise funds for autism research and raise awareness of this complex disorder. Dujardin Design Associates is proud to sponsor signs along the path, signaling our ongoing support for individuals with autism and their families. The Walk starts from Jetties Beach on August 17; learn more about it here. I hope you’ll join us on Nantucket, or on one of the Walks around the country.
Nantucket Cottage Hospital’s Boston Pops Concert
August 10th will mark the 17th annual Boston Pops Concert to benefit the Nantucket Cottage Hospital. The music starts at 7:00 p.m., and the beachside fireworks go off at 9:00! It’s one of the best summertime events on the island. This year, the very talented Katie Couric will host the event, and the special guest is Emmy, Tony and Golden Globe-nominated star Matthew Morrison, perhaps best known for his performance on the top rated show Glee. Details are here.
Swim Across America: Making Waves to Fight Cancer, August 24
The Nantucket Island Open Water Swim takes place on August 24th at Jetties Beach. As part of Swim Across America, an organization dedicated to raising money and awareness for cancer research, all funds raised will help support new oncology services at Nantucket Cottage Hospital and free cancer support programs offered by Palliative & Supportive Care of Nantucket (PASCON). Join in by swimming either 1/2 mile or 1 mile, or support the swimmers by making a donation. Learn more here.
When I’m not meeting with clients, overseeing design installations, or attending wonderful on-island events with friends, I’m enjoying all the beauty, wonder and mystery that living on an island offers. The sound of the sea, the smell of salt air and the seafaring history make living on Nantucket like nowhere else on earth.
With your back to the wind and your face to the ocean, you can almost see the whaling ships of long ago arriving in the harbor, laden with treasures from around the world. We’re 30 miles out to sea, and a world away. If you haven’t experienced the island, I hope you’ll visit soon. Whenever you arrive, there’s always a light on.
If anyone needs me, G.G. and I will be on the porch.
