Lunar Datebook

Episode 103—Autumnal Equinox, 2019 As the yearly wheel spins towards Fall, Lunar Datebook looks at beginnings and endings. Host Jennifer Ellsworth shares an essay about the rite of passage that begins many love affairs, the first kiss; and a memoir about her farming days now ended. Or are they?  My Two First Kisses, a walk in the vineyard, and a good drink in good company. 

Episode 102—Winter 2019 After sixteen years working for the Chase family, host Jennifer Ellsworth is moving on to see what else is out there. But first she offers lessons learned and experiences gained from the restaurant and farm.  How to Host, the World's Best Bean Picker, and the Last Saturday Breakfast at Chase's Daily.

Episode 101—Autumn 2018 Moving blood. This is the clinical definition of life as we know it—a beating heart, circulating oxygen rich blood through the body. It is also the evolutionary end game. Reproduction. Moving our bloodline forward. And a metaphor for inheritance. These themes converge in this season's episode. Host Jennifer Ellsworth interviews dancer Shana Bloomstein, founder of Women's Works, about a piece she created with her daughter. And we read a short story about a gift passed down, called “Obedience.” "...Obedience was only 12 years old, yet it had aged well, already taking on the gnarled bark of a much older specimen. A middle-aged bonsai achievement in a short span. This was why Jacob’s father won prizes. He aged his plants well..." Essential form in bonsai and life and holding our babies again.  

Episode 100—August 11, 2018 Welcome to A Lunar Datebook Production's dramatic finish of Eddie Wonders Why, a radio play based on Sophocles' tragedy Oedipus Rex, where the king who loses everything becomes a mafia lord.  Act 2 features Sean Cash, Dr. Liz Yori, Bill Yori, Marsha Coller, Eric Robotaille, Jeremiah Kemberling, and Erik Perkins.  Moon Astrology: New Apple Moon in Leo: Bask in the sun. 

Episode 99—July 12, 2018 Welcome to A Lunar Datebook Production of Eddie Wonders Why, a radio play based on Sophocles' tragedy Oedipus Rex, where the king who loses everything becomes a modern mafia lord.  Act 1 cast features Sean Cash, Bill Yori, Erik Perkins, Eric Robotaille, and Liz Yori, N.D.  Moon Astrology: New Thunder Moon in Cancer: family is everything.

Episode 98—June 13, 2018 As host Jennifer Ellsworth contemplates sending her firstborn to kindergarten, she interviews two Maine public educators: Don Schultz, one year out of teaching, and Danny Lobo, one year in.  Moon Astrology: New Herb Moon in Gemini: twin tales.  A big pond with different fish, a snort for emphasis, and one question you can't Google. 

Episode 97—May 15, 2018 Gorgeous spring has sprung and with it competing interests. Host Jennifer Ellsworth tells the history of the Gemini constellation, and shares the lessons the twins Castor and Pollux have about time management. She also reads an essay about the two sides of her own personality and reads a short story about a different sort of twin, an imaginary friend. It's called "Amen." "...Amen comes every night after my prayers. He comes in through the window and walks across my floors picking up my broken pieces. When he has gathered them all up, we try to put me back together while he tells me stories. Amen tells the best stories..." Moon Astrology: New Dandelion Moon in Taurus: From the ground up.  Swan seduction, gluten-eating orgy, and a river of dreams. 

Episode 96—April 15, 2018 May the Force be with you.... Host Jennifer Ellsworth waxes philosophical about where Star Wars, science and religion collide. She also shares Sean Cash's two cents on "instant karma," and reads a poem about living in the moment.  Moon Astrology: New Grass Moon in Aries: Nothing is not nothing.  The Gospel of George Lucas, the Cult of Einstein, and Richard Pryor rules the Dark Side....

Episode 95—March 17, 2018 "High Flight" is a sonnet written by 19-year-old John Gillespie Magee Jr. before a mid-air crash took his life during World War II. In this episode host Jennifer Ellsworth uses the lines of this poem to remember her family's 19-year-old World War II pilot, her grandfather, who died last month. He was a POW, an artist, a storyteller, and one of Ellsworth's greatest influences.  "The Surly Bonds of Earth:             Roldan Ellsworth Jose Stumpff de Whitt lived two lives growing up. One in the Pennsylvania Dutch world of his father, and another in his mother’s Mexico...." Moon Astrology: New Egg Moon in Pisces: flying dreams. Goodnight, Pumpkin; ghosts; and a great man. 

Episode 94—February 15, 2018 Happy New Year! The second new moon of 2018 welcomes Chinese New Year and the Year of the Brown Earth Dog. Host Jennifer Ellsworth offers an astrological forecast calling for loyalty and diligence to be rewarded. She also shares a true story that exemplifies those traits from Carol Visser, recorded at Lunar Datebook's Disruption! event; and reads a short story about a cosmic connection between two men, called "Moon Man." "...Three minutes. June 14, 1946 10:54 a.m. and June 14, 1946 10:57 a.m. Three minutes separated their births—Silas in Waterville, Maine; Donald J. Trump in Jamaica, Queens, New York. On a total lunar eclipse. They were Moon Men, baby! Watch out! Of course Silas didn’t believe in astrology, knew it was all crap, but, but, but—..." Moon Astrology: New Sap Moon in Aquarius: work for the greater good. Up, around, or through; a crowded honeymoon; and Donald Trump's birth chart.

Episode 93—January 16, 2018 The upcoming Super Blue Blood Moon on January 31, 2018 sounds amazing, but what does it mean? Host Jennifer Ellsworth explores the astrological significance of a Leo moon in opposition to an Aquarian sun. She also reads an essay about the challenges of disciplining children, and explains a Mother Goose nursery rhyme in "The Lion and the Unicorn Parable."  "...Once upon a time, all the people in the world were warring with each other, distrustful, and greedy. The Lion got sick of it. He came out of the forest and roared, “Enough! I am King now.” Then he went old school, demanded balance, and enforced the law that said “an eye for an eye, a tooth for a tooth.” He always took those eyes and teeth himself, never going further, it wasn’t a tooth for a tooth and the tip of your finger; but if you’ve ever had a lion at your door, you will appreciate the incentive that provides to avoid one there again..." Moon Astrology: New Hunger Moon in Capricorn: Tame as verb. Tarot card 8, a fire-breathing dragon simmers down, and no one mourns the king.                   

Episode 92—December 18, 2017 The Winter Solstice marks the true New Year. In this episode host Jennifer Ellsworth pauses to reflect on events and people from the past year, including a Remembrance Service at Riposta Funeral Home. She also shares a segment from Disruption! featuring Squidge Davis, and her story about how she came to help a junkie.  Moon Astrology: New Moon of Long Nights in Sagittarius: end of a journey. Living the Serenity Prayer, a shared blanket, and a good place to stop. 

Episode 91—November 18, 2017 People will go to great lengths to keep darkness at bay, including shifting time. Host Jennifer Ellsworth discusses the history, intent, and limitations of Daylight Saving Time. She also describes the dim after-effects of marijuana use, and reads a short story about a woman who wants to light up her life. It's called "Your Smile Signals the World." "...Sixty monthly payments of $50 at 0% interest. Doreen’d made three and the world was opening up. She’d been the transfer station attendant for eight years. She was quick about it always, jawing on with Ivan, sure, about who took what from the swap shop, but stepping up to vehicles while they talked and flagging at the cars how much to back up to the dumpsters..." Moon Astrology: New Snow Moon in Scorpio: self defense A Benjamin Franklin brainstorm, moon landings, and the sound of silence.  

Episode 90—October 19, 2017 The Astrological Sign Scorpio may not be warm and fuzzy, but its no-nonsense attitude is necessary in the 11th hour of winter preparations. Host Jennifer Ellsworth celebrates this often-maligned Sign. She also meditates on faithfulness in an essay about marriage and a short story about a man who appreciates options. It's called "Morning Smoke." ...“You sly dog.”             Frank’s eyelids quivered. “Excuse me?” he said.             Meghan clucked her tongue.             “Excuse moi-“ Frank slid a hand under the sheet toward Meghan’s breast. She caught his hand, brought it to her mouth, and bit him.             “What the hell!” Frank’s eyes shot open.             “I know you didn’t deserve that, but I feel better.”... Moon Astrology: New Root Moon in Libra: fill the cellar Loyalty in low places, stacked wood, and dreams come true.

Episode 89—September 20, 2017 This week welcomes Autumn, but trees have been showing seasonal changes all month. Host Jennifer Ellsworth explains the science of colorful fall foliage—how it is always there waiting to reveal itself when things slow down. She also describes the forty minute visit with her grandparents that is supposed to teach a lifetime of experience, and reads a short story about a farmer's thirteen minute lunch break called "Noon." "...Alden shut off the tractor ignition and reached for his lunch sack, bungeed behind the seat. Bologna and mustard. Plus what was left of a potato chip bag. He’d meant to grab a cucumber off the counter this morning, they were just about done, but he’d forgot...." Moon Astrology: New Hunters' Moon in Virgo: The hidden side says take a break. Photosynthesis, fresh salsa, and a half million pair of wings rub together.   

Episode 88—August 21, 2017 Happy total solar eclipse! This episode host Jennifer Ellsworth celebrates the awe inspired by this celestial event as we step outside and look up. She also applauds her old chorus director, David Stevenson of Mount View High School, and the magic he cast in his thirty years of service; and reads a short story about love, the most powerful force of all. It's called "Transcontinental Booty Call." "...Bishop had driven out straight in just over three days, slept stretched out on picnic tables, eaten his cooler of peanut-butter-pickle sandwiches until Nebraska then switched to trail mix to tide him over, his body humming the whole time..." Moon Astrology: New Moon in Leo: Last summer roar. The whole Earth responds, patting a bird's head, crab rangoons.

Episode 87—July 23, 2017 Concern for our food's origins has become common. In honor of Lammas, the seed gathering holiday, host Jennifer Ellsworth considers the ultimate seed source: LUCA, our Last Universal Common Ancestor. She also shares examples of metaphoric seeds we exchange. This episode features work by singer songwriter Sara Trunzo from her album Thanks Birdie and "The Ama Story," a bedtime tale that may become planted in your mind, too. "...When Ama was younger she lived overseas with Grandpa George. I can’t remember if it was in Thailand, or Singapore, or the Philippines. When she was there she volunteered at an Army base where soldiers went to recover from being in the Vietnam War...." Moon Astrology: New Moon in Leo: roars and whispers. Hydrothermal vent home, living a country song, and feeling human again.   

Episode 86—June 23, 2017 The summer solstice brings the most light of the year, yet there are still things we cannot see. Host Jennifer Ellsworth explores the invisible 95% of the universe, Dark Matter. She also delves into Downtown Tattoo in New Orleans, Louisiana to hear about the secret history of a very public tattoo; and reads a short story called "Neighborly" where a young man runs into the rough past that he doesn't want to see.  "...Lawrence saw the old fucker immediately, standing alone at the end of the buffet table eating a hotdog. More grey, stooped in his shoulders and favoring his left knee, but still wearing green Dickies top and bottom, and that fool belt buckle, wide as a metal plaque outside a cemetery, engraved thus: Wanna see my lucky charms?..." Moon Astrology: New Hay Moon in Cancer: Family ties bind. Infinite energy out, the good son, and a starburst on the grill. 

Episode 85—May 25, 2017 The gulf between What Is and What We Would Like is deep. Host Jennifer Ellsworth explores these depths in a meditation on expectation. She also shares how a local feud has changed her idea of forever, and reads part two of "Uncle Remy's Birthday Cake." "...It was 1:02 when Mary scooted into the solarium at Tall Pines, out of breath, but with the birthday cake balanced on her forearm. Her phone had dinged in the car, 1:00 on the nose. Mona with a text message. Such prompt timing from her sister meant she would not be attending the party, so Mary ignored it and attempted to recover a few of the many minutes she had squandered this morning by long striding it across the parking lot..." Moon Astrology: New Strawberry Moon in Gemini: welcome Summer. Rotating bodies, hug dreams, and clams on the beach. 

Episode 84—April 26, 2017 Dandelions are not top of the flower grace scale, yet host Jennifer Ellsworth believes they deserve the May Moon title. She also describes seeing a long lost friend who has not lost his saving grace, humor; and reads part one of a story about the graceless Nickerson sisters: Mary, Melissa, and Mona. It's called "Uncle Remy's Birthday Cake." "...The man was nearly dead and the last of his generation: Mary’s grandfather’s retarded brother. Uncle Remy in Tall Pines. He liked strawberry cake with rainbow sprinkle frosting. Mary hadn’t seen the man since Bush 2 was in office, but since this was certainly Remy’s last spin around the sun, why not go big?..." Moon Astrology: New Flower Moon in Taurus: smell earth. Spring Soup, Spaulding Rehabilitation Center, and Old Sits With Flames.

Episode 83—March 27, 2017 The North Star, Polaris, has been guiding star for travelers for centuries. Host Jennifer Ellsworth offers an overview of this celestial compass point and explains how it won't be there forever. She also shares a poem about Sungold tomatoes from a man who doesn't write poetry anymore; and reads a story about Bets, our favorite waitress, and how she tries to locate a little magic in life. It's called "Playing At Witches."             '...“Are you really going?”             I nod. I had emailed a way out this morning: Hello, ladies. Looks like rain. Next weekend?             The responses came quick with no bites.             I don’t melt! See you at 6!             I love rain. Might be ten minutes late.             Rented movies for the girls already. 6:10 it is.             “Rugged women,” Steve says.             I nod again. “How do I look?”...'   Moon Astrology: New Milk Moon in Aries: Spring means begin. Sky clock, a sneaky trap, and a spring blizzard.

Episode 82—February 26, 2017 Who's your Daddy? Host Jennifer Ellsworth explores the science of genes and what happens when energies merge. She also shares an interview with Michelle Moschkau who describes a long distance connection made via a cell phone number; and reads part one of "Baby," a short story about the end of the 23rd chromosome.  '...“Where are we going?” Kaleb asked.             “Equinox party—” Julie muttered. She was stuck, with a towel-wrapped Pyrex wedged between her breasts and the steering wheel. She’d charged from the house through the rain, not wanting to wear a hat. She had tried a new part following her shower—sloughing her bangs left, not divided down the middle—and had a moment of such sexy feeling she’d gooped it in place...' Moon Astrology: New Egg Moon in Pisces: Daydream believer. Gaia and Kronos, meditation question, and a quiet car. 

Episode 81—February 10, 2017 The Fire Rooster is this year's Chinese New Year animal, and we cannot ignore his crow. Host Jennifer Ellsworth enumerates his traits that we should adopt to succeed this year. She also profiles a couple that lives the change they wish to see in the world, and reads a short story about a woman following doctor's orders and transforming her life. It's called "Executive Order."             "...Isn’t this worse?             I’ll do it because that’s how I am, but imagine if this was the prescription for the whole country? Ignore the media and eat red meat. Oh wait, it is! Is it possible Dr. Liz is one of them? Perhaps her chakra poster peppered walls are a ploy to make me accept her and her advice: ignore the media and eat red meat!..." Moon Astrology: Full Sap Moon in Leo: Illuminate. Healthy, happy hens; sugar shack time; and dressed burgers. 

Episode 80—January 27, 2017 Can dreams tell the future? What happens when we die? Host Jennifer Ellsworth explores some of Life's mysteries with Joe Asciello as he recounts a boating accident he saw coming. She'll also share the outline for a tough talk with her children and a poem about a sweet farewell with her grandmother. It's called "The View of Planet Earth From Room 216." "...In her delirium Grandma shops at the open market. 'They’ve got sausages drying,' she gestures to the fluids dripping into her IV..." Moon Astrology: New Sap Moon in Aquarius: All together now. Righting itself in the water, a not-fancy fish, and marveling at them all. 

Episode 79—January 12, 2017 Love abounds as Venus occupies its point of greatest eastern elongation. Host Jennifer Ellsworth offers a planet primer for our solar system sister. She also marries love and food in an essay about what makes a good cook, and a short story about waiting for a table at Neighborhood, Belfast's next best thing. It's called "The Waiting Game."            “'Twenty minutes?'             The return pitch of those two words, twenty minutes—the estimated wait for a table at Neighborhood, the new restaurant in town—was designed to equate that time frame with swimming naked in pig swill...." Moon Astrology: Full Wolf Moon in Cancer: We are family. Sex, love, beauty, and military victories; beans and rice; and She Talks to Angels.

Episode 78—December 29, 2016 Today marks the start of the lunar calendar year. Host Jennifer Ellsworth explores how this Wolf Moon can help us connect with our family after a busy holiday season. She also offers some Lunar Datebook updates and corrections so as to start the year with a clean slate, and concludes the short story "Special Delivery, Christmas Eve."  "...The house on the address label of the grey envelope tucked under the Deliveryman’s arm was a seasick two-story just off Front Street. It leaned toward its neighbor on wobbly knees, but so far had not accepted the hand of progress that surrounded it..." Moon Astrology: New Wolf Moon in Capricorn: Get the job done. People packs, broken heart death, and a bowl of cherries. 

Episode 77—December 13, 2016 In the season of gift swaps, sometimes showing up is our best present. Host Jennifer Ellsworth shares a first person account from a Dakota Access Pipeline protester, and shares her dreamy experience of missing a plane. She also reads part two of this year's Christmas story, "Special Delivery, Christmas Eve." "...The Concord Trailways bus was on time, arriving at the Shell Station at 9:15 from South Station. Jessica’s ride was not. She’d received a text: “Ten minutes!!” Double exclamation point, followed by a sad face emogi. Jessica’s mom...." Moon Astrology: Full Moon of Long Nights in Gemini: Change your mind. "All actions here are prayer", assured recognition, and a good smoke. 

Episode 76—November 29, 2016 The darkest portion of the year corresponds with family-intensive holiday celebrations. Host Jennifer Ellsworth recaps her Thanksgiving. She also shares a story from Stella Tirone about a family hike to the Jordan Pond House on Mount Desert Island that went awry, and reads part one of this year's Christmas Story. It's called "Special Delivery, Christmas Eve." “...'Merry Christmas. Ho Ho Ho. Merry Christmas.' Criminey it was cold. Too-cold-to-die-here cold. Thank-God-for-nostril-hair cold. Gary called Merry Christmas and HoHoHo out to shoppers because talking reminded his body it was alive..." Moon Astrology: New Moon of Long Nights in Sagittarius: Resilience in us all. Winter mode menu, not a bear, and ringing bells on beaches. 

Episode 75—November 14, 2016 It's yet another Supermoon. Host Jennifer Ellsworth explains why today's full moon really is great, and reflects on that superlative in a eulogy for her husband's gram. She also reads a short story about a less-than-great man and his moment of grace with a gun. It's called Cellar Hole. "...Hunting in the middle of the day was like jacking off to a kitten calendar—nearly useless—but Arlen needed to get out of the house. Diane had left the turkey in the mudroom, thinking it would be warm enough to thaw there, but it hadn’t. When she retrieved it for stuffing, it remained an igloo brick and set her off cussing..." Moon Astrology: Full Beaver Moon in Taurus: Work together. Proxigee full moon, hauling water, and canned peas.

Episode 74—October 30, 2016 All Hallow's Eve is here, marking the time of year when it is kosher to connect with ghosts and spirits. Host Jennifer Ellsworth explores divination's relationship with intuition through tasseography, tea leaf reading. She also reads a letter to the editor imploring peace between politic's two sides, and reads a scary story inspired by Siv Widerberg's poem "Nightmare." The Boy returns to the Ogre. It's called "The Boy and the Scratch Man." "...Once upon a time there was a boy who lived with his mother in a house on the edge of the woods. Perhaps you saw their house, when it was still there...."  Moon Astrology: New Beaver Moon in Scorpio: look beneath the surface. Can you read clouds? Our falling sky, and retrieving wishes. 

Episode 73—October 15, 2016 We are all hunters at heart, tracking desires and dreams. Today host Jennifer Ellsworth explores the trophies of that hunt through the history of taxidermy and its ability to transport us through time and space. She also compares hardcore hunters to yogis, and reads a short story where a woman harvests a piece of her home. It's called "Measuring Wall." "...Madge hadn’t expected the house to sell so quickly. The realtor said it would take at least a year, and when she had blanched at that, he’d comforted her by saying, 'more likely three,' explaining that the market bubbled on the coast, but inland, in these rural towns, homes still sold the old fashioned way—with time and a new price every six months...."  Moon Astrology: Full Hunters Moon in Aries: we are wildfire. The origin of "stuffed animal," Action with a capital A, and hailing a chainsaw operator.  

Episode 72—September 30, 2016 Nearly everyday Earth has a close approach with an asteroid. Today host Jennifer Ellsworth explores how NASA scientists find these Near Earth Objects and what we plan to do with them. She also tells a true story about an ant-hunting dog, and reads a prose poem about shape note singing. It's called "#Blessed-Common Ground Country Fair Folk Arts Tent 2016." "...I was there because I was supposed to be there, the next act on stage, following whatever this was, telling a story in the old way as the woman said, which to me just meant I’d rehearsed it out loud in my car on the way to the grocery store, my two boys a peanut gallery in the backseat, and while driving here, to the Fair, instead of listening to NPR..." Moon Astrology: New Hunters Moon in Libra: Take only what you need. Interplanetary gas stations, my dungy dog, and a hand shaking heart.

Episode 71—September 16, 2016 As the sun slips into the southern hemisphere, we welcome autumn and longer nights than days. Host Jennifer Ellsworth considers what to pack for this journey toward year's end. She also tells about midnight walks to Lake St. George, and concludes the short story "Jackson Pond Party Boat," where, after lunch, Melissa poses an interesting question to the quartet.  "...Billy had made tuna fish sandwiches, but they were on shore. Ivan dragged the boat until Billy’s quadrant sunk into the mud. Tommy and Melissa widened their stances in their chairs, and Billy rose like a tightrope walker, determined not to flood the boat with his departure...." Moon Astrology: Full Harvest Moon in Pisces: Dream on. What do you take to bed?, tossing our wishes in, and star sailing.  

Episode 70—September 1, 2016 A woman warrior is not usually the first image that comes to mind when you hear "virgin," but perhaps it should. Host Jennifer Ellsworth dissects the etymology of the word to reveal its ancient and surprising roots. She also interviews Belfast Maskers cofounder Diane Coller Wilson as she prepares to reclaim the stage in the Midcoast Actors Studio production of George Bernard Shaw's Arms and the Man, and reads part two of "Jackson Pond Party Boat," where Melissa and the two brothers write one another's obituaries. ...Melissa had brought a thirty pack of PBR, packed in ice. The first one she cracked open and set beside Ivan, who nodded and said, “Hmm.” She then handed beers to the brothers, and took one for herself. “Cheers, men,” she said. “Thanks for coming.” Moon Astrology—New Harvest Moon in Virgo—the Universe provides. "A kind of man," a forty-minute Medea, and a single-white-female.

Episode 69—August 18, 2016 Is there evidence of aliens? Today host Jennifer Ellsworth investigates stories of out-of-staters, and way-out-of-staters. She hashes out the details of Maine's most famous close encounter, the Allagash Alien Abduction of 1976, visits the Roswell UFO Museum, and reads part one of a short story about newcomers to Jackson. It's called "Jackson Pond Party Boat. ...The phone rang at 7 o’clock. “Is this Money Bags #1 or #2?” “This is Billy.” “#1 then. The party boat is ready. Please come to the dock at 10. Bring dinner.”... Moon Astrology: Full Grain Moon in Aquarius: We aren't so different. Art students fishing, Alien Bagels, and Melissa's middle finger.

Episode 68—August 2, 2016 Today is the Wheel of the Year holiday Lammas. Host Jennifer Ellsworth explains how that means now is the time to plan for the future. She also lets you eavesdrop on her annual pilgrimage to Temple Heights Spiritual Camp in Northport for a psychic reading, and reads a poem about being present at her favorite swim hole. It's called "The Crew Today at Steven's Pond." My goal is just get wet, be baptized and reborn then get back to cook supper: quesidillas, beans, fruit salad, I think, or will once this heat’s extinguished. Moon Astrology: New Grain Moon in Leo: Be seen. Sacred grain stories, a spiritual pep-talk, and lounging lions. 

Episode 67—July 19, 2016 There's a storm brewing. Today host Jennifer Ellsworth explains the science behind July's frequent thunder showers. She also explores how the appeal of lightning extends beyond the single strike into our lives. She tells a true story about a fast-driving friend, and a short story about a dangerous ride taken anyway. It's called "Velocity:" ..."Quickly Pete learned to say he didn’t remember anything. Not the impact. Not standing around after with bleeding ears shouting at Jonah Reynolds, the unfortunate first on the scene, that he hadn’t meant to..." Moon Astrology: Full Thunder Moon in Capricorn: Slow and steady wins the race. When particles collide, north of Orono, and a game of Chicken.

Episode 66—July 4, 2016 Want to learn America's fortune? Today host Jennifer Ellsworth examines the star chart for the United States—or tries to. She also tells about the last time she rode in the Brooks Fourth of July parade, intent on changing the world, and reads a poem about being stranded then saved. It's called "Ode to My Junky Car."  After I’ve cursed my blue streak and safely found the shoulder it’s easy to diagnose: Dead. Moon Astrology: New Thunder Moon in Cancer: Families gather together and roar.  Ebenezer Sibley, tossed salad, and a friendly F-150.

Episode 65-June 20, 2016 It is officially summer! To mark the solstice, host Jennifer Ellsworth takes a beach read approach to today's episode. She shares entertaining trivia from the first moon landing, visits Josh Ard of Permanent Expressions Tattoo Studio in Belfast to hear about the silhouette tattooed on his back, and reads a story about our favorite waitress, Bets, from Bottoms Up, as she hosts a barbecue. It's called "Satiated." "...How many is that?”             Josh just shakes his head. He is knuckle-deep in his labradoodle’s coat searching for ticks. We warned him that Liberty was tick Mecca. My husband Steve and I have been coming out of the shower with our arms up since March to perform the tick check..." Moon Astrology: Full Strawberry Moon in Sagittarius: Take your vacation. Moon Communion, a hundred dollar tattoo, and Endurance.

Episode 64- June 4, 2016 Luna Moths are short-lived, single-minded insects. Host Jennifer Ellsworth describes their life cycle, and how we sometimes emulate them. She also tells a true story of a close encounter with one of these beautiful creatures, and reads a short story about a woman whose pursuit of a perfect garden leaves her lonely. It's called "Morning Glories." "...Sandra submitted the application for the Belfast Garden Tour last year. It was only after she’d hit send that she realized how much she wanted it, and worried she should have said more in the answer spaces...." Moon Astrology: New Strawberry Moon in Gemini: 'tis the season for manic multitasking. Let's get it on, a treasure transported by spoon tip, and a 400 pound wake-up call.

Episode 63- May 21, 2016 Navigating the seas without a map, a compass, or a sextant and nautical almanac would mean death for most of us. Today host Jennifer Ellsworth introduces the ancient art of Wayfinding, and explains how celestial navigation negates that fate. She also tells a true story about a group of hayfield partiers finding their way to the next vision, and reads a short story about a soldier and his wife staying connected. It's called "Intact." "...“Can you hear me?”             She could. Abby was sitting at the kitchen table. Though it was 5:45 a.m. she was dressed in a pink blazer, her hair braided like a tiara above her bangs, her eyelids dusty purple. This was the advice of the VA—treat skyping like a date...." Moon Astrology: Full Flower Moon in Scorpio: Weed. Nainoa Thompson's philosophy, a ground compass, and needing to call a guy.

Episode 62- May 6, 2016 Mainers that want a lesson in self-sufficiency should take a lesson from bulbs. Host Jennifer Ellsworth examines their perfect timing and patience. She also shares a true story from a woman, Michelle Holder, who could not wait to get a tattoo—until she had it—and reads a short story about our favorite nurse, Wanda, and her second day on the job. Discharging patients takes patience.   "...My first day at Waldo County Hospital everyone stopped what they were doing to learn my name, repeat it like the punch line of a tremendous joke, and marvel over my current life story. 'Wanda. Wanda. You just finished nursing school? And your husband runs a chicken barn?'...” Moon Astrology: New Flower Moon in Taurus: Run Wild. First settlers homesteads, the strangest place for a tattoo, and an overnight bag at the ER.

Episode 61- April 22, 2016 May Day celebrates spring's conception of summer.  In this episode, host Jennifer Ellsworth examines the long odds it took for each and every one of us to be conceived, and how getting lucky really is.  She also finds gratitude for her lot in life and reads a short story where we revisit Ivan, a Jackson neighbor, whose numbers have come in.   "...Bear was the one that woke Ivan in time to see his numbers trail across the bottom of the television set and discover he’d won the jackpot...." Moon Astrology: Full Milk Moon in Scorpio: go whole hog. One out of two hundred million, Gomer Pyle's lucky scarf and top shelf whiskey.  

Episode 60- April 7, 2016 Metaphorical lightning strikes illuminate who we are.  Today host Jennifer Ellsworth illuminates how to properly name a moon phase- each precise moment and the many in between.  She also shares an interview with Babette Cohen-Solal, who explains how she decided it was time to learn to read, and reads a short story about a boy who gives up sugar for his health, despite the sweetness shared with his mother.  It's called "Chubby Bunny." "...It wasn’t a girl’s look, or a boy’s for that matter, that transformed CJ. It was a web seminar in Health Class. He left in the morning, Mountain Dew in hand, and came home talking about Glycolysis as he opened and dumped down the sink the remainder of his twelve pack, like an alcoholic gone cold turkey..." Moon Astrology: New Milk Moon in Aries: Spark your enthusiasm. The Balsamic Moon, strained eyeballs, and Barbara's baby.  

Episode 59- March 23, 2016 Spring brings ascension!  In this episode, host Jennifer Ellsworth enumerates world myths that celebrate rebirth come spring.  She also tells a true story about a Tokyo train serenade that goes sour, and reads a short story about an on-duty cop and his cargo.  It's called "Good Deeds." "...The call comes in at 8:53. Right in the middle of the Sean Hannity Show. He’s gotten a bit too religious these past few years, praying as much as he politics, but I’ve got good filters...." Moon Astrology: Full Egg Moon in Libra: tip the scales toward light. Chippewa Robin Boy, "Sweet Caroline" embrace, and a porch Snuggly.

Episode 58- March 8, 2016 Love ain't easy- not even for celestial bodies.  Host Jennifer Ellsworth shares myths of marital strife between the sun and the moon from around the world.  She also offers her grandparents' secrets to surviving sixty years of marriage, and reads a short story about a nursing home romance called, "Trim Day." "...For their diamond anniversary, Roseanne and Junior had gone to McDonald’s. 'We like it there,' Roseanne told her daughter, Rachel. 'It’s tradition.' Darby’s was nicer- certainly more expensive- but McDonald’s was where Junior had taken Rose of Sharon for their first date..." Moon Astrology- New Egg Moon in Pisces- Sometimes empathy is everything. Children for breakfast, bookends of the day, and a sun drenched couch.

Episode 57- February 22, 2016 Welcome to the Red Fire Monkey year!  Host Jennifer Ellsworth introduces Chinese astrology basics and explains how this is the year to risk it all on what you love.  She also interviews Josh Ard of Permanent Expressions tattoo studio in Belfast, Maine about how passion influences his work, and reads a short story about a hitchhiking high school girl hot on the trail of her heartthrob.  It's called "Jobs, Not Jail." "...Getting rides is always a bitch in winter. You’d think drivers would see some poor bum walking the sliver of white line exposed between snow bank and main drag and pull off to offer a ride out of the slush, but it’s just the opposite...." Moon Astrology:  Full Sap Moon in Virgo:  Be particular. 1896 and the birth of bought elections, sleep on a short couch, and Bowen's burgers.   

Episode 56- February 8, 2016 There are good habits and bad habits, but do we cultivate them, or do they control us?  Host Jennifer Ellsworth explores how habits helped shape Saint Bridget on Imbolc.  She also reflects on how nursing is a two-way street, and reads a short story in which a Yoga instructor, usually stuck in her ways, signs up for a cosmic reset.  It's called, "Where Rushing Gets You." "...Cheryl had been late all morning, but decided to turn around anyway. She’d forgotten her tea on the counter. She could’ve stopped and bought tea at Chase’s Daily or Bell the Cat – or McDonald’s for that matter- but then she would be seen carrying a paper cup with a plastic lid..." Moon Astrology: New Sap Moon in Aquarius: Gather together. A blacksmith bends earth, we all wean sometimes, and it isn't stealing if it's a gift.  

Episode 55- January 23, 2016 With two more days of Mercury in Retrograde, host Jennifer Ellsworth explains this astrological phenomena, and why you may be suffering a communication breakdown.  She also tells a true story about how she was lost in translation as an Italian exchange student, and reads a short story about a massage that affects the recipient in unanticipated ways.  It's called "Magic Touch." "...If we’re going to tell the story, let’s be honest. Richard was fat. Of the had-not-seen-his-penis-in-years variety. Of the only-one-position-works-for-sex variety.   Of that, there had been very little- one week stretch, twenty years ago when he had fallen in with a distant cousin..." Moon Astrology:  Full Wolf Moon in Leo:  Howl your heart out. Planets as passing cars, La Piazza della Repubblica, and nighttime in the desert.

Episode 54- January 9, 2016 Humans vilify and worship wolves.  Host Jennifer Ellsworth explores how these canines inherited their own moon name.  She also tells a true story about an encounter with a Lone Wolf that wished she had a gun, and reads a poem about how her family falls asleep called "Wolf Stories." "...Every night it's wolves....Nice friendly ones and bad ones...." Moon Astrology:  New Wolf Moon in Capricorn:  Don't put off what you can do today. It takes a village, Icelandic love and no more counting sheep.    

Episode 53- December 25, 2015 We all know Christmas marks Jesus' birthday, but that is not the only reason to celebrate.  Host Jennifer Ellsworth explains how Christ came to be a Capricorn and remarks about Christmas' other famous fellow- the one in the red suit.  She also reads a short story about a recovering thief who is determined not to be a Grinch despite being broke.  It's called, "The Full Tree." "...Everyone had said that backwoods landlords didn’t worry about First, Last and a Deposit, but the one with the one bedroom “cottage” in Jackson had. He had not asked Mary and Lawrence a single question. He’d just unlocked the front door and let them have a look...." Moon Astrology:  Full Moon of Long Nights in Cancer:  Family Writers gave us Christmas, Santa is an Indian and cranes upon a Christmas tree.