Quotes from Some Rakers

"I  remember Vladimir and Julia fondly. I lived in their home for a couple of weeks and maybe only one season. Or was it two? In any case, great memories. The hard work of actually raking blueberries does not recall well for some reason. Instead lots of good times."    Dave

"I've thought of Julia and Vladimir and blueberries from time to time over the years with fondness.  It's a shame about the fire.  I can imagine Vladimir trying to be as independent as possible to the end.  I do remember talking about Skinner and Russia and various other subjects.  I always loved Vladimir's smiling face, taking lots of delight in each day.  I also remember how delicious Julia's meals were.  Another memory is how freezing the water was in Cathance.  I may not have the highest tolerance for that.  I can see the field and the house now.  I can also see everyone piling on top of me at the end of one of the seasons to celebrate yet another triumphant year of raking, just like at the end of the world series.  Our very own private world series."   Steve


"Those were some of the best times of my life, being there, working hard with everyone, out in the fresh air. So special. My thoughts are with them."   Art


"Our thoughts and prayers are with Vladimir, Julia and the rest of their family. Every year when my wife and I head up to Maine I tell her we have to go and see Vladimir and Julia, and of course because of limited time (and any sense of foresight on my part) it never pans out.  I will always remember how amazing it was being there with them for blueberry season.....My regret is that after we stopped raking we never got back up to visit them. I know I can speak for both Art and I that they really left a long lasting impression on us. Vladimir's humor and Russian peculiarities, and Julia's smile and amazing breakfast's are still vivid in my mind. And of course all the rest of the group of cousins and local characters like Alan and Bill….."  Nick

"... memories of long hours on my knees, having much too much chaff in my bucket of berries, and feeling like I'd never get to the end of my row. I still have a wooden berry box that has crated assorted small camping gear since my early 20s. And, I still pick my own fruit from my mom's field...and eat frozen berries all winter long."  Nancy

"... of course I always thought Lauren's life project was conceived raking at Vladimir's with all of you ...."    Lauren's mom, Cynthia