The Shorebird Festival goers have come and gone after the weekend, during which they enjoyed temperatures in the mid-60s, bright sunshine and sparkling water in Kachemak Bay. Whether you were out birding or, like the Betster, soaking up the sun and watching the birders get excited over things with wings and funny names, this weekend was a great prequel to a warm, light-filled summer season.

Speaking of the birders, they came in from far and wide — not just in Alaska. Some traveled from New Jersey, Florida, Canada and Hawaii, according to Shorebird Festival organizers. Over 750 feather enthusiasts attended, raising over $2,000 in the Shorebird art auction. 

But all that is so last weekend — the Betster has his or her sights set on another fun-filled weekend, especially one with less traffic in town and more parking on the spit. Fingers crossed. 

Whether the weather decides to rain or shine, there are plenty of ways to stay active in Homer over the next weekend. Even if your idea of active is walking from the porch to get another beverage while reading a book. From ferry deals that will take you to hikes across the bay, to opportunities to wine and dine, or just stick your nose in a book, Homer has you covered.

BEST JUST KICKIN’ IT BET: Homer Youth Soccer Season starts Monday—register at homersoccer.com. National Olympic Team and Division 1 college-level coaches will be joining the program for the 2016 season; it’s going to be an amazing summer for Homer youths to learn some serious soccer skills. Five two-week camps between late May and early August.

BEST BOOKWORM BET: The Summer Reading Program at the Homer Public Library begins May 23. Sign up for family fun including games, storytimes, novel workshops, LEGO competition, and start logging your reading minutes! 10 weeks full of free events throughout the summer. Register at cityofhomer-ak.gov/library/summerhpl-2016.

BEST WINE NOT WHINE BET: Friday Wine Class at The Homestead is “Red Wine with Seafood” this week. Show up at 6 p.m., pay $25 per person and get some delicious appetizers while learning how to pair red wines with seafood—perhaps as preparation to impress your visiting family members and friends this summer?

BEST GREEN IS THE NEW BLACK BET: The 40th Anniversary Panel Discussion of the Kachemak Bay Oil and Gas Lease Buyback from 6-9 p.m. Wednesday at Islands and Oceans Visitor Center. Cook Inletkeeper is hosting this discussion highlighting stories about the early struggles to protect Kachemak Bay to connect the dots to present-day oil and gas activities in the Bay. Come learn about this part of Kachemak Bay’s history.

BEST SAIL THE OCEAN BLUE BET: Seldovia Ferry has special sailings this weekend for those wanting to get out and about and across the bay! Friday, Saturday and Sunday, the cost is only $40 per adult, $30 for seniors 60+, and $25 for children 3-13. Call 435-3299 or visit seldoviabayferry.com to plan some family fun adventures.