Author: Useppa

Island Mother’s Day

Photographs and story by Useppa Gin

An island Mother’s Day is different from one on the mainland.  There is a more relaxed pace.  On Saturday a morning sail or baking cookies and making cards for moms at Miss Ginny’s set the tone.  On Sunday it began for three generations with a visit to the grotto at the southern tip of the island, the grandfather having spent his own childhood here.  For others it started with a walk down the airstrip.  A mother, daughter, and son-in-law sipping coffee while their third generation was home still asleep.  The Sellers went for a golf cart ride with their German Shepherd Sally.

At 11:30 a festive brunch was served at the Collier with complimentary mimosas for moms — casual seating outside on the patio or relaxed inside dining.  Music in the background, children jumped in and out of the pool.  One father was in charge of his two little ones, mom given a bit of time off.  Usually those Sunday roles are reversed with mom and two toddler girls in the water and dad on the tennis court.  Boats kept coming and going in the Marina, members arriving for lunch or residents off to go fishing.  Friends with a long afternoon and no responsibilities played croquet on the lawn.  Children on the beach played in soft, lapping waves.  Grownups napped under a cabana’s shade.  Mother’s Day on Useppa.

Off and Running on Useppa

Photographs and Story by UseppaGin

The betting was heavy, the horses were fast, but Best in Show on Useppa went to the outstanding screamers Pason G. and Shane S.  It was close as the photographs show, but it was Pason at the end who yelled the loudest when American Pharoah crossed the Derby Finish Line.  The Tarpon Bar was full, almost as many hats as partiers.  Cheers determined Useppa’s Derby Hat Winner.  Diana S., last year’s winner was disqualified from the finals because of her previous victory.  That left three finalists strutting in front of the applauding crowd, but ultimately, the victory went to Mary M.  In terms of a party….another Derby win for Useppa.

Winding Down

Photos and story by Useppa Gin

Another season on Useppa winds down.  The Millers have gone back north.  The last gardenias are blooming.  Grotto Brian has packed away his tools.  He’s left that magical spot on the end of the island to the rest of us for safekeeping until fall.  The mulberry tree is almost empty.  Spring is heading too rapidly into summer.