By Sue Kilpatrick

May the sun in his course visit no land more free, more happy, more lovely, than this our own country!  – Daniel Webster

The chance of rains this past week seemed to diminish as quickly as their possibilities. Temperatures stayed mild if not a little on the cool side for this time of year. If it wasn’t for the abundance of flowers and greenery it would seem more like fall. No complaints…the weather has been beautiful.
Let’s go back a few thousand years. The Native American tribes kept track of the passage of time and seasons by observing the phases of the Moon. Each full Moon was given a name, which applied until the next. The names were based on natural occurrences during this time period. These may have included weather, animal behavior and plant growth. For example, May 27 of this year, we have a full Moon. The name for this Moon is the Full Flower Moon. Amazing to think as I go outdoors and take notice of the flowers that people thousands of years ago did the same and in doing so named the Moon for this common observation. In future columns with each full Moon I will include its Native American name. Over time many of these names have become the traditional or common ones used. Trying to predict and understand nature has always been a challenge.
This Memorial Day weekend will be perfect weather for displaying our American flag. The daytime temperatures should reach into the 80s and lows at night (under a full moon) in the mid 50’s. Leading into the weekend expect cool weather. It will cool down again slightly by Tuesday. At last, it is safe to put your umbrella away!
Have a safe and relaxing weekend. I would like to thank all the men and women who have served our country and those who do so currently.  Thank you.

Sue Kilpatrick is a longtime CV resident and amateur weather watcher. Reach her at suelkilpatrick@gmail.com.