Signs of Spring

Around here, some signs of spring are similar to the ones you may see in your neighborhood. I have seen early daffodils and returning robins, as a couple of examples.

Other signs that spring is coming are more specific to Ocracoke. The community seems to be waking from its winter nap, and we begin to see activity in preparation for the coming tourist season, mostly in the form of businesses reopening or readying to do so. There's a sign in the Post Office that says The Flying Melon restaurant will reopen in mid March (a fact which is very pleasing to me). Thai Moon takeout will be available again at the end of March. It will be good to have a few more dining out options!

Ocracoke Coffee Company is in the process of expanding their building, as is Secret Garden Gallery. The Slushy Stand is open. There was a large truck at Pirate's Chest the other day, delivering inventory for the season.

The 2007 Ocracoke Map and Directory brochures have been delivered. The brochure informs me that this year, as in most years, there will be a couple of new businesses on the island. Mango Loco, a Mexican restaurant and lounge, will open in the building which was formerly Sargasso Grill (and Saucy Shrimp before that, and multiple other things before that). My friend Zoi is opening a shop specializing in pampering treats, such as high thread count sheets and luxurious bath and body items. I think she's planning to call it Indulgences. It will be in Spencer's Market, near Thai Moon and Eleven Eleven.

Finally, we are in the planning stages for the Annual Ocrafolk Festival, now accepting applications for artisan booths. More details are available here: http://www.ocrafolkfestival.org/ (click "2007 Artisan Application" in the left menu).

As you come out of winter "hibernation" and make your plans for spring, hopefully a trip to Ocracoke will be among them!