Faeries, Furry Friends, and Fundraising Walks for Cancer Research

1. A Long Walk For Breast Cancer: By now, most of you probably know about the Terri Brodeur Breast Cancer Foundation's Walk Across Southeastern Connecticut taking place today. If you don't, you'll be reminded when you see all those people dressed in pink walking from Old Saybrook through Old Lyme and East Lyme to Harkness Park in Waterford. 

Of course, the question uppermost on the minds of those participating is what's the weather going to be like? And the answer is ... sunny and dry this morning but showers are likely this afternoon, so walk fast!

2. Bark for Life: There's another cancer fundraising walk also taking place at Waterford's Harkness Park today, but this one is for people who like to walk with dogs. It's the American Cancer Society's Bark For Life, which begins at the park with registration at 9 a.m., followed by opening ceremonies at 10 a.m. and a lap around with the dogs. There will be lots of great dog events, with competitions and demonstrations until 1 p.m.. 

3. Blessed are the Animals! Saint Ann's Episcopal Church, 82 Shore Road in Old Lyme will perform a special blessing of the animals on Saturday at 11 a.m. All creatures great and small are welcome and there will be treats for humans and their nonhuman friends following the service. 

4. Foals and Foliage! McCulloch Farm-Whippoorwill Morgans will be hosting a foals and foliage open barn weekend Oct. 6-8 from 10 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. free of charge. This is your chance to pet the farm's three fillies and meet their gentle mothers. People are invited to hike the farm's trails and bring a picnic but, please, don't bring treats for the horses, don't bring the dog, and don't forget to wear practical shoes—no flip-flops or sandals. The farm is located at 100 Whippoorwill Road, (just off exit 70 on I-95) in Old Lyme. 

5. Do you believe in Faeries? The Wee Faerie Village opened yesterday at the Florence Griswold Museum in Old Lyme and outdoor exhibition of faerie houses created by artists it is an absolute joy to explore. The monthlong event includes special programs every Saturday, beginning today with a chance to meet and play with Tracy Kane, fairy artist and author of the popular "Fairy House" series, at 11 a.m. and 2 p.m.

On Columbus Day, there will be a parade led by bagpipers weaving through the Faerie Village—and you can dance if you want to! L'Ana Burton will be offering creative dance lessons beginning at 11:30 a.m. The Parade begins at noon and faerie dress is encouraged, so strap on your wings and fly on over!