I want a bike ride up Ocean Ave to Edgartown before I go. And, early this morning, I go. Bright, blue, beautiful, sunny ride, with the ocean on my left, the marsh on my right; a cheerful sight. Stayed at the Island Inn last night, where we have often stayed before, and this is my favorite part, this walk or bike ride. I cannot go as far as I’d like, all the way into Edgartown, but far enough to feel it has been worth it. Charlie, sweet Charlie, and Suzi greet us on our return. Sad to not be able to take our Vineyard loving dogs with us on this trip; a rare thing to leave them behind. Our Martha’s Vineyard trips are more memorable because of their presence. But we couldn’t score pet friendly accommodations this time. Charlie is quickly forgiving of the slight: I walk him across the field to the river. He has a toy we brought home some summers ago, his buoy from Vineyard Sound, and it’s in the yard, and he carries it with him. We stand on the riverbank and I throw it into the river again and again to give him a good swim. Then , when he is satisfied, together we water the vegetable garden and collect the fresh harvest. And find the blossoms on the butternut! Cucumbers galore! Plenty of tomatoes still, though they are going fast. I roast the cherry tomatoes for dinner. It’s lovely to be home and find the garden has survived––still thrives. Poetry tonight. I have made some successful, small revisions to my sunflower poem from last week. And, in my own garden, my one successful sunflower in full bloom.