As I drove home tonight after picking up sushi for dinner, I was treated to the sight of a lovely sunset. The sun seemed much larger than usual, close and low in the sky, and was very orange. I decided to stop at one of my favorite salt water spots, on the edge of Silver Lake and watch unttil it disappeared. As I pulled up, I saw a lady on a bicycle come up quickly, stop very suddenly, and jump out rapidly, grabbing her tripod and camera to capture the scene.
As I got out of the car, I saw Philip Howard, leading his Tuesday night "Ocracoke Ghost and History Walk". (If you haven't gone on one during one of your trips here, I highly recommend it - you will have fun, and learn a lot too! They are offered on Tuesday and Friday nights and start at Village Craftsmen.) I wondered briefly why Philip was stopping his group at that spot (I didn't think there was anything of historic or ghostly significance about Ride the Wind Surf Shop.) Then I heard Philip tell his group, "I stop here just so people can watch the sunset." What a great idea! Hope you get to take the time to stop and watch sunsets (or sunrises, or moonrises, or anything else you find lovely).
Tuesday, July 31, 2007
Monday, July 30, 2007
Thank you for being here
I went to a potluck tonight, a party in honor of a lovely young lady named Emma who will be leaving the island later this week to spend her senior year as an exchange student in Denmark. The potluck was very well attended, an indication of how much Emma and her family are loved. Emma will be missed, although we are all excited for her to have this wonderful experience.
As I was preparing to leave, Emma's mom Karen said the sweetest thing to me: "Thank you for being here. And I don't mean just here, at the party; but here, part of the community." Where else but Ocracoke do people say such nice things to each other? (I hope there are other places!) It was such a blessing to me to hear that, as I have been in a grouchy mood lately. I actually was mentally writing a "rant-n-rave" blog this morning. Think I'll skip that. Thanks Karen, for reminding me to be grateful for the many reasons I love this town, and to focus on my gratitude instead of my grouchy attitude!
As I was preparing to leave, Emma's mom Karen said the sweetest thing to me: "Thank you for being here. And I don't mean just here, at the party; but here, part of the community." Where else but Ocracoke do people say such nice things to each other? (I hope there are other places!) It was such a blessing to me to hear that, as I have been in a grouchy mood lately. I actually was mentally writing a "rant-n-rave" blog this morning. Think I'll skip that. Thanks Karen, for reminding me to be grateful for the many reasons I love this town, and to focus on my gratitude instead of my grouchy attitude!
Sunday, July 29, 2007
Life at the number 1 beach
Tom from Texas asked "Have you noticed new visitors drawn specifically by Dr. Beach's #1 designation?"
I think so, yes. Of course, I haven't done any scientific study on this, but in general the island seems busier. Especially lately, every weekend finds EVERY room on the island booked, even in the larger hotels which typically have a handful of rooms available for last minute travelers.
It also seems that there are many more people coming to the island who not only have never been here before, but who are completely clueless about Ocracoke, even the fact that it takes a ferry to get here.
Finally, I have heard many visitors talking about the fact that they are going to see the number 1 beach in the nation.
I am curious to see how long this lasts. I wonder if the fall "shoulder season" will be busier than usual too. I hope so, for the sake of businesses who could use the extra income. But I certainly also hope that things slow down a bit, too. The fall is usually a great time to recharge and catch up with friends, since everyone is so busy in the summer. Since this summer is busier than normal, we will all need a good fall to rest and recharge!
I think so, yes. Of course, I haven't done any scientific study on this, but in general the island seems busier. Especially lately, every weekend finds EVERY room on the island booked, even in the larger hotels which typically have a handful of rooms available for last minute travelers.
It also seems that there are many more people coming to the island who not only have never been here before, but who are completely clueless about Ocracoke, even the fact that it takes a ferry to get here.
Finally, I have heard many visitors talking about the fact that they are going to see the number 1 beach in the nation.
I am curious to see how long this lasts. I wonder if the fall "shoulder season" will be busier than usual too. I hope so, for the sake of businesses who could use the extra income. But I certainly also hope that things slow down a bit, too. The fall is usually a great time to recharge and catch up with friends, since everyone is so busy in the summer. Since this summer is busier than normal, we will all need a good fall to rest and recharge!
Saturday, July 28, 2007
Aunt Blabby
If you read the Ocracoke Observer, you probably know who Aunt Blabby is. "Ocracoke's oldest and most opinionated server" is how she is described there. But that hardly does justice to the wickedly funny, acidly witty lady. I love Aunt Blabby ~ her column is the first one I read when I get the paper.
In the July paper, in response to a question, Aunt Blabby wrote, "Copernicus called. You are NOT the center of the universe." I found that hilarious ~ and thought provoking.
It is easy to become self centered and self focused. We are, after all, involved in everything that happens in our own lives. No one else on earth but me has heard EVERY single word I've ever said. (That's a blessing for the rest of you, believe me.)
What's my point? That sometimes blogging can become a bit, well, self focused. Thinking and writing about myself and my life and my daily habits and thoughts may be making me dangerously introspective and prone to melancholy. Or maybe I'm just tired.
Anyway, if you have any Ocracoke (or non-Ocracoke, for that matter!) topics you would like to know about, post a comment and let me know. I need to write about something other than me. And maybe you readers would like a new topic, too. Let me know...
In the July paper, in response to a question, Aunt Blabby wrote, "Copernicus called. You are NOT the center of the universe." I found that hilarious ~ and thought provoking.
It is easy to become self centered and self focused. We are, after all, involved in everything that happens in our own lives. No one else on earth but me has heard EVERY single word I've ever said. (That's a blessing for the rest of you, believe me.)
What's my point? That sometimes blogging can become a bit, well, self focused. Thinking and writing about myself and my life and my daily habits and thoughts may be making me dangerously introspective and prone to melancholy. Or maybe I'm just tired.
Anyway, if you have any Ocracoke (or non-Ocracoke, for that matter!) topics you would like to know about, post a comment and let me know. I need to write about something other than me. And maybe you readers would like a new topic, too. Let me know...
Friday, July 27, 2007
Beach closures?
Did you know that the Fish and Wildlife Service (FWS) is considering designating four areas of Ocracoke and Hatteras Islands, as "critical habitat" for wintering piping plover? This has the potential to close these four spots (South Point and the North End on Ocracoke) to ALL human activity (off road vehicles AND pedestrians) for most of the year (FWS has restated the critical habitat definition to indicate that the areas are crucial for both nesting (spring/summer) and wintering piping plovers.)
The closure areas would include any emergent sandbars in Hatteras, Ocracoke and Oregon inlets, which could affect ferry dredging and/or the construction of a new bridge at Oregon Inlet. If FWS is successful in their attempt, the identified areas could be closed to ALL human activity (ORV AND pedestrian) for the entire year.
In 2006, a lawsuit was brought against FWS, and the judge ruled that an economic analysis must be done. That analysis has now been completed (45 pages, released May 29), but is highly inaccurate and misleading (it was completed by a company in Massachusetts who did not contact any business owners on the Outer Banks).
I can see both sides of this issue (as usual!) On the one hand, Cape Hatteras National Seashore, of which Ocracoke is a part, is a national park, and was designated as such to ensure it would be available for people's use and enjoyment. On the other hand, the poor piping plovers don't stand a chance against man and all his big machines, and there certainly is a need to protect them.
I believe (as I do for most things) that there is a reasonable solution, and that consensus is possible. I'm not sure whether consensus will happen, but it is possible.
Regardless of your position, you can express your thoughts during the public comment period, which ends on Monday July 30. More information is available at the links below.
FWS site
Bullet Points by Larry Hardham, President of the Hatteras Angler's Club
Tradewinds Tackle Message Board
The closure areas would include any emergent sandbars in Hatteras, Ocracoke and Oregon inlets, which could affect ferry dredging and/or the construction of a new bridge at Oregon Inlet. If FWS is successful in their attempt, the identified areas could be closed to ALL human activity (ORV AND pedestrian) for the entire year.
In 2006, a lawsuit was brought against FWS, and the judge ruled that an economic analysis must be done. That analysis has now been completed (45 pages, released May 29), but is highly inaccurate and misleading (it was completed by a company in Massachusetts who did not contact any business owners on the Outer Banks).
I can see both sides of this issue (as usual!) On the one hand, Cape Hatteras National Seashore, of which Ocracoke is a part, is a national park, and was designated as such to ensure it would be available for people's use and enjoyment. On the other hand, the poor piping plovers don't stand a chance against man and all his big machines, and there certainly is a need to protect them.
I believe (as I do for most things) that there is a reasonable solution, and that consensus is possible. I'm not sure whether consensus will happen, but it is possible.
Regardless of your position, you can express your thoughts during the public comment period, which ends on Monday July 30. More information is available at the links below.
FWS site
Bullet Points by Larry Hardham, President of the Hatteras Angler's Club
Tradewinds Tackle Message Board
Thursday, July 26, 2007
July showers bring...
...BUGS!
We had a lovely soaking rain this morning. It wasn't windy, so the rain simply fell straight down in silver streaks, cleansing and bringing a fresh feeling to our dusty dry island. We certainly needed the rain, and I suspect gardeners were very pleased. I hope that their plots produce a lovely bounty (whether edible or merely decorative) as a result of the showers this morning.
Unfortunately, there's another result of rain showers: mosquitoes! And they are out in force. There's an old adage that the mosquito population is worst about two weeks after a rain. Last week, I heard someone at the post office commenting that on Ocracoke, the mosquito swarm starts about two MINUTES after a rain shower. Today, that definitely seems true.
I went out to see the sunset and touch salt water, and had to hurry back inside before I got completely covered in bites. One particularly hardy skeeter (as we call them here in the South) hung on to the back of my hand even as I swiped at him, trying to get him to leave me alone. Nervy thing took 4 swipes before he flew off! Or perhaps I was just not making good contact, I don't know.
I'm sitting in the screened porch now, rejoicing at the sound of many frogs, because I know mosquitoes are their favorite meal. I hope they eat very well tonight.
We had a lovely soaking rain this morning. It wasn't windy, so the rain simply fell straight down in silver streaks, cleansing and bringing a fresh feeling to our dusty dry island. We certainly needed the rain, and I suspect gardeners were very pleased. I hope that their plots produce a lovely bounty (whether edible or merely decorative) as a result of the showers this morning.
Unfortunately, there's another result of rain showers: mosquitoes! And they are out in force. There's an old adage that the mosquito population is worst about two weeks after a rain. Last week, I heard someone at the post office commenting that on Ocracoke, the mosquito swarm starts about two MINUTES after a rain shower. Today, that definitely seems true.
I went out to see the sunset and touch salt water, and had to hurry back inside before I got completely covered in bites. One particularly hardy skeeter (as we call them here in the South) hung on to the back of my hand even as I swiped at him, trying to get him to leave me alone. Nervy thing took 4 swipes before he flew off! Or perhaps I was just not making good contact, I don't know.
I'm sitting in the screened porch now, rejoicing at the sound of many frogs, because I know mosquitoes are their favorite meal. I hope they eat very well tonight.
Tuesday, July 24, 2007
Good advice
Ocracoke is a magical place, where the pace of life is (or at least seems) slower, the traffic is sparse, and many people bike or walk, rather than always driving. While all this is true, it is also true that the roads on Ocracoke are still places where the rules of the road (and common sense!) should be applied. Perhaps it is even more true on Ocracoke, with often narrow, windy streets shared, especially this time of year, by many pedestrians and bicyclists, in addition to cars, large SUVs with fishing poles on the front, and trucks towing boats.
So here's a quick reminder of rules which are for everyone's safety:
- bike on the right (same direction as vehicle traffic - a bike is a vehicle, albeit a slow one!)
- walk on the left (facing oncoming traffic)
Seems simple, I know. But truly, following these rules can save your life. We have been extraordinarily blessed on Ocracoke in that there aren't many bike/car or pedestrian/car accidents, but it is never a bad idea to be careful.
Stay safe out there!
So here's a quick reminder of rules which are for everyone's safety:
- bike on the right (same direction as vehicle traffic - a bike is a vehicle, albeit a slow one!)
- walk on the left (facing oncoming traffic)
Seems simple, I know. But truly, following these rules can save your life. We have been extraordinarily blessed on Ocracoke in that there aren't many bike/car or pedestrian/car accidents, but it is never a bad idea to be careful.
Stay safe out there!
Monday, July 23, 2007
Birthday party
I went to a potluck tonight, to celebrate the birthdays of several friends, all of whom have birthdays in July. It was a great celebration, with some fantastic food (Dave's bruschetta with homemade crostinis and Sundae's fig cake were the big hits), enjoyable chats, and (of course) birthday singing and cake. Someone lit the candles on the cake a bit early, and they burned themselves out before everyone had gotten organized enough to all be in the same room and sing. So, some more were found, and we all sang again. (Sundae teased that she wanted to hear some better singing the second time around, with harmonies and more feeling. When we finished singing, she did tell us that we had improved from our first try!)
I like this tradition of celebrating all the birthdays in a given month at the same time. I am planning to host the August birthday potluck, since my birthday is that month. Food with friends is always an excellent way to celebrate, well, anything.
I like this tradition of celebrating all the birthdays in a given month at the same time. I am planning to host the August birthday potluck, since my birthday is that month. Food with friends is always an excellent way to celebrate, well, anything.
Sunday, July 22, 2007
No naps
Naps are not a realistic option for me on weekdays, but weekends are a bit slower paced with more free time which I could use to snooze. I am tired by the weekends, too, as a result of my full and hectic weekdays. So you would think I would make it a point to nap on Saturday or Sunday. This weekend was a perfect one for napping; it was overcast and a bit cool both days, so I could stay indoors or on the screened porch without feeling like I was wasting good outdoor time ("burnin' daylight", as I once heard it described).
But did I take any naps this weekend? You guessed it...no, I didn't. The reason wasn't so much about my "too busy" island life, as much as it was related to life being too interesting to nap through. Instead of napping this weekend, I read most of a good book (didn't quite finish it, but read a great deal). I had several good conversations, learned a few new and interesting things (including a few facts about the Argentinian traditional social practice of drinking a tea called mate), and enjoyed listening to some excellent live music.
All of this reminds me of the lyrics of a song by Ann Haley (from Oriental NC):
It's a beautiful life
Good cup of coffee, and some lively conversation
It's a beautiful life
Watching stars come out, over God's green plantation
I watched a few stars come out this weekend too. It is a beautiful life, and an interesting one...too interesting sometimes to stop and take naps. I think I'll go to bed a bit early instead!
But did I take any naps this weekend? You guessed it...no, I didn't. The reason wasn't so much about my "too busy" island life, as much as it was related to life being too interesting to nap through. Instead of napping this weekend, I read most of a good book (didn't quite finish it, but read a great deal). I had several good conversations, learned a few new and interesting things (including a few facts about the Argentinian traditional social practice of drinking a tea called mate), and enjoyed listening to some excellent live music.
All of this reminds me of the lyrics of a song by Ann Haley (from Oriental NC):
It's a beautiful life
Good cup of coffee, and some lively conversation
It's a beautiful life
Watching stars come out, over God's green plantation
I watched a few stars come out this weekend too. It is a beautiful life, and an interesting one...too interesting sometimes to stop and take naps. I think I'll go to bed a bit early instead!
Saturday, July 21, 2007
Celebrations
On Friday night, I went to a birthday party on a sailboat. It was Sundae's 40th birthday, and we celebrated with her during a sunset sail on the Schooner Windfall. It was cloudy so there wasn't much of a sunset to speak of, and we actually got rained on for the first few minutes, but we still had a great time. The rain eventually cleared out (as the radar on Dave's phone said it would), and we munched contentedly on Deanna's fabulous sundried tomato and onion dip, bruschetta, and strawberries with honey vanilla dip as we sailed in Pamlico Sound. After the Lighthouse came on, we headed in to the dock and enjoyed delicious birthday cake and ice cream. It was a beautiful night by that time (the wind which came with the rain had blown the heat and humidity away), and several of us sat on the Windfall at the dock, chatting quietly and enjoying the peace of early evening and listening to the water of Silver Lake softly lapping against the sides of the boat.
Tonight, I went to a wedding on the beach. Fiddler Dave and Gary played wonderfully, the radiant bride carried sunflowers, and the sun set behind the dunes as Sean and Stephanie shared their vows. The minister told the story of Moses seeing the burning bush (it was definitely the first time I had heard that particular scripture at a wedding), and spoke of how Ocracoke had been selected as the number 1 beach in America for 2007. He connected the two with the concept of "holy ground", saying that, as Moses was standing on holy ground when he saw the burning bush, the couple was standing on holy ground as they were married in the sight and presence of God.
Both celebrations reminded me of how blessed I am to live here, surrounded by this lovely, holy, number one beach ground and the waters of the ocean, sound and harbor.
Tonight, I went to a wedding on the beach. Fiddler Dave and Gary played wonderfully, the radiant bride carried sunflowers, and the sun set behind the dunes as Sean and Stephanie shared their vows. The minister told the story of Moses seeing the burning bush (it was definitely the first time I had heard that particular scripture at a wedding), and spoke of how Ocracoke had been selected as the number 1 beach in America for 2007. He connected the two with the concept of "holy ground", saying that, as Moses was standing on holy ground when he saw the burning bush, the couple was standing on holy ground as they were married in the sight and presence of God.
Both celebrations reminded me of how blessed I am to live here, surrounded by this lovely, holy, number one beach ground and the waters of the ocean, sound and harbor.
Thursday, July 19, 2007
Island life
If you're wondering what it's really like to live on Ocracoke, here are a few anecdotes which will give you an idea of how life is here (at least this time of year).
Jamie and I went to dinner tonight. While chatting about life in general and what we had been up to, she said "I went to the beach today. Did you know there's a great beach outside the village?" I said "Wow, is it still there? I haven't been in so long I wasn't sure." Yes, of course I know our wonderful beach is still there, I just haven't seen it with my own eyes in a few days. I'm too busy. (In case you're worried, no I haven't missed any days on my salt water touching...luckily there are plenty of places within the village to touch salt water too!)
Earlier today, I got an email which mentioned the recent explosion in Manhattan. I had no clue that there had been an explosion in NYC. I haven't turned on a TV in days. I'm too busy.
Our friend Amy served Jamie and me at dinner tonight. We talked briefly about the fact that, several Sundays ago, Amy and I had a conversation to this effect:
"are Sunday nights usually a free time for you?"
"yes, sometimes"
"we should get together and go out for a drink some Sunday soon"
"definitely, that would be fun, let's do it"
As I said, that was several Sundays ago. We haven't done it (yet, I'm sure we will eventually). We're both too busy.
Amy went on to talk about the fact that she and her husband Dave took a walk on a recent evening. She commented to him that she really enjoyed walking in the evenings and they should do so more often. Then they started thinking about that, and realized the next time they would have an opportunity would be at least a week of evenings later. In the meantime, they're too busy.
So that's what island life is like for the locals during the summer: too busy. I'm not complaining, don't get me wrong. It is well worth the hard work this time of year, for the blessing of getting to live here year 'round. I love the summer, especially the long days of many sunlit hours. But I also definitely look forward to the quieter pace of "off season", when I'll get to go to the beach, keep up with the news, have a drink with friends, and go for walks more often.
Hope you are enjoying your summer, no matter how busy you are!
Jamie and I went to dinner tonight. While chatting about life in general and what we had been up to, she said "I went to the beach today. Did you know there's a great beach outside the village?" I said "Wow, is it still there? I haven't been in so long I wasn't sure." Yes, of course I know our wonderful beach is still there, I just haven't seen it with my own eyes in a few days. I'm too busy. (In case you're worried, no I haven't missed any days on my salt water touching...luckily there are plenty of places within the village to touch salt water too!)
Earlier today, I got an email which mentioned the recent explosion in Manhattan. I had no clue that there had been an explosion in NYC. I haven't turned on a TV in days. I'm too busy.
Our friend Amy served Jamie and me at dinner tonight. We talked briefly about the fact that, several Sundays ago, Amy and I had a conversation to this effect:
"are Sunday nights usually a free time for you?"
"yes, sometimes"
"we should get together and go out for a drink some Sunday soon"
"definitely, that would be fun, let's do it"
As I said, that was several Sundays ago. We haven't done it (yet, I'm sure we will eventually). We're both too busy.
Amy went on to talk about the fact that she and her husband Dave took a walk on a recent evening. She commented to him that she really enjoyed walking in the evenings and they should do so more often. Then they started thinking about that, and realized the next time they would have an opportunity would be at least a week of evenings later. In the meantime, they're too busy.
So that's what island life is like for the locals during the summer: too busy. I'm not complaining, don't get me wrong. It is well worth the hard work this time of year, for the blessing of getting to live here year 'round. I love the summer, especially the long days of many sunlit hours. But I also definitely look forward to the quieter pace of "off season", when I'll get to go to the beach, keep up with the news, have a drink with friends, and go for walks more often.
Hope you are enjoying your summer, no matter how busy you are!
Wednesday, July 18, 2007
Cranio-what?
I just finished writing an article on craniosacral therapy. If you're wondering what the heck THAT is, you are not alone. I didn't have a clue what it was either, until just recently. I did some research, one interview, and experienced a treatment myself to find out about it. (It's definitely nice to be assigned to write about pampering, relaxing sorts of things!)
Anyway, to end the suspense, craniosacral therapy is a gentle, light touch bodywork modality which is performed on a clothed patient. So if you want the affects of a massage, but aren't a big fan of deep pressure or getting, as we say in the South, "nekkid", this is the therapy for you! I found the treatment to be VERY relaxing and would recommend it for anyone.
If you want to know more about it, you'll just have to read my article. You do know that you can subscribe to the Ocracoke Observer, and get a monthly newspaper fix of your favorite island, don't you? If that's news to you (pun absolutely and mercilessly intended), pick up an Observer next time you are on the island so you can fill out the subscription form (after you read my fascinating article, of course!) If you won't be there for a while and can't wait, I suspect Linda and Jamie will take your subscription request even if it's not on an official form. They just need your name, mailing address, phone number, and a check or money order for $24 (no, they can't bill you, you've gotta send the money now) for a full year subscription (9 issues). Send all of the above to Ocracoke Observer, PO Box 427, Ocracoke NC 27960. And happy reading!
Anyway, to end the suspense, craniosacral therapy is a gentle, light touch bodywork modality which is performed on a clothed patient. So if you want the affects of a massage, but aren't a big fan of deep pressure or getting, as we say in the South, "nekkid", this is the therapy for you! I found the treatment to be VERY relaxing and would recommend it for anyone.
If you want to know more about it, you'll just have to read my article. You do know that you can subscribe to the Ocracoke Observer, and get a monthly newspaper fix of your favorite island, don't you? If that's news to you (pun absolutely and mercilessly intended), pick up an Observer next time you are on the island so you can fill out the subscription form (after you read my fascinating article, of course!) If you won't be there for a while and can't wait, I suspect Linda and Jamie will take your subscription request even if it's not on an official form. They just need your name, mailing address, phone number, and a check or money order for $24 (no, they can't bill you, you've gotta send the money now) for a full year subscription (9 issues). Send all of the above to Ocracoke Observer, PO Box 427, Ocracoke NC 27960. And happy reading!
Tuesday, July 17, 2007
Bingo!
I volunteered at Bingo tonight, helping to give out door prize tickets and sell "specials" (the extra game cards available in addition to the regular 12 games). I enjoy people watching, and Bingo is a great opportunity to do it. There are the serious Bingo players, who come armed with their daubers and desire near total silence while the calling is happening. Many of these are locals, who play every week. Then there are the visitors, who either use the crayons provided or purchase a dauber after they arrive, and whose chatter drives the serious Bingo people crazy. But the two groups manage to basically get along, and everyone seems to have a good time.
Tonight, Emmet won the final special game (a total blackout), but he narrowly missed getting the $500 jackpot, winning $50 instead. Why? Well, to win the jackpot, you must "bingo" within a certain number of calls. Tonight, the bingo had to be completed by the 59th number called, and Emmet got his on the 60th. He still seemed happy about it though. The requirement increments by one when the jackpot is not won, so next week, it will have to be won by bingoing within 60 numbers called. I'm told that the bingo typically happens between 60 and 64 numbers having been called, so next week (and possibly the following week, if it doesn't happen next week) would be a good time to play!
Tonight, Emmet won the final special game (a total blackout), but he narrowly missed getting the $500 jackpot, winning $50 instead. Why? Well, to win the jackpot, you must "bingo" within a certain number of calls. Tonight, the bingo had to be completed by the 59th number called, and Emmet got his on the 60th. He still seemed happy about it though. The requirement increments by one when the jackpot is not won, so next week, it will have to be won by bingoing within 60 numbers called. I'm told that the bingo typically happens between 60 and 64 numbers having been called, so next week (and possibly the following week, if it doesn't happen next week) would be a good time to play!
Monday, July 16, 2007
Bookworm
I love to read. When I was a child, I would often read multiple books at once. Well, not literally at once, of course, but I would start a new one before finishing one I was reading, and take turns reading them at different times until I finished both. I'm not sure I can do that anymore, especially since reading is something I do in spurts when I can find a few spare minutes. Sometimes, I won't read for several days and will have to remind myself what the book I'm reading is about and what was going on when I stopped reading, in order to get caught up and continue.
Recently, I've been reading books which have an Ocracoke or Outer Banks connection. Some of them are non-fiction and literally about this area; others are fiction and have settings or scenes in the region; some are written by authors who live here.
There are a surprising number of books which fall into this category, so I could easily keep myself busy for quite a while. My friend Jamie has a bookshelf full, and I aspire to do the same. Currently, I only have a handful on my "Ocracoke books" shelf, but it's a start. In the meantime, I have borrowed two from Jamie, one of which I just started reading tonight(Crackpots by Sara Pritchard).
Here's a list of the several other Ocracoke/Outer Banks books which come to mind (I have read some, but not all, of these.) This list is off the top of my head, so there may be errors in exact titles or author name spellings.
Ocracokers - Alton Ballance
Holiday for Edith and the Bears - Dare Wright
Ocracoke - Carl Goerch
Ocracoke - David Shears
Ocracoke Portrait - Ann Ehringhaus
The Keeper's Son - Homer Hickam
Up Through the Water - Darcey Steinke
The Mourner's Bench - Susan Dodd
Thirteen Miles to Suncrest - Donald Davis
Shipwrecks of the Outer Banks - Kevin Duffus
Sea Born Women - BJ Mountford
There are many more. Leave a comment and suggest a few, if you know of others.
Recently, I've been reading books which have an Ocracoke or Outer Banks connection. Some of them are non-fiction and literally about this area; others are fiction and have settings or scenes in the region; some are written by authors who live here.
There are a surprising number of books which fall into this category, so I could easily keep myself busy for quite a while. My friend Jamie has a bookshelf full, and I aspire to do the same. Currently, I only have a handful on my "Ocracoke books" shelf, but it's a start. In the meantime, I have borrowed two from Jamie, one of which I just started reading tonight(Crackpots by Sara Pritchard).
Here's a list of the several other Ocracoke/Outer Banks books which come to mind (I have read some, but not all, of these.) This list is off the top of my head, so there may be errors in exact titles or author name spellings.
Ocracokers - Alton Ballance
Holiday for Edith and the Bears - Dare Wright
Ocracoke - Carl Goerch
Ocracoke - David Shears
Ocracoke Portrait - Ann Ehringhaus
The Keeper's Son - Homer Hickam
Up Through the Water - Darcey Steinke
The Mourner's Bench - Susan Dodd
Thirteen Miles to Suncrest - Donald Davis
Shipwrecks of the Outer Banks - Kevin Duffus
Sea Born Women - BJ Mountford
There are many more. Leave a comment and suggest a few, if you know of others.
Sunday, July 15, 2007
Ocrafolk School
For all you fans of the "Ocrafolk" scene here on the island (Festival, summer concert series, etc.), you might be interested to know about the planned Ocrafolk School, which will be held later this year. There will be 2 week-long sessions, either Oct. 21 - 26, or Oct. 28 - Nov. 2.
There are several classes to choose from:
Week 1
Bird Carving - William Nathan Spencer
Jewelry Making - Kathleen O'Neal
Ocracoke History and Culture - Philip Howard
Island Cooking - Debbie Wells
Music and Stories of the Sea - Bob Zentz
Island Photography - Ann Ehringhaus
Week 2
Model Boat Building - Jimmy Amspacher
Watercolor Painting - Mary Ellen Golden
Exploring Ocracoke - David Senseney
Old Time Sailing and the Seafaring Tradition - Captain Rob Temple
Lifesavers and Lightkeepers - John Golden
Basketry: Materials and Techniques - Judith Saunders
Tuition is $495, which includes group meals (breakfast and dinner). You can learn more about each class and see a sample class schedule here. To sign up, complete and return the registration form here. I've put a link to the School website in the new links section (on the left) as well.
I'm thinking of taking the photography class, and I recommend any of the classes that interest you, whether you would like to learn an art or craft skill, or more about the history, culture, or nature of the island. I am working as one of the class coordinators as well, helping to organize the School, so let me know if you sign up for a course. I would enjoy meeting some of my blog readers in person!
There are several classes to choose from:
Week 1
Bird Carving - William Nathan Spencer
Jewelry Making - Kathleen O'Neal
Ocracoke History and Culture - Philip Howard
Island Cooking - Debbie Wells
Music and Stories of the Sea - Bob Zentz
Island Photography - Ann Ehringhaus
Week 2
Model Boat Building - Jimmy Amspacher
Watercolor Painting - Mary Ellen Golden
Exploring Ocracoke - David Senseney
Old Time Sailing and the Seafaring Tradition - Captain Rob Temple
Lifesavers and Lightkeepers - John Golden
Basketry: Materials and Techniques - Judith Saunders
Tuition is $495, which includes group meals (breakfast and dinner). You can learn more about each class and see a sample class schedule here. To sign up, complete and return the registration form here. I've put a link to the School website in the new links section (on the left) as well.
I'm thinking of taking the photography class, and I recommend any of the classes that interest you, whether you would like to learn an art or craft skill, or more about the history, culture, or nature of the island. I am working as one of the class coordinators as well, helping to organize the School, so let me know if you sign up for a course. I would enjoy meeting some of my blog readers in person!
Saturday, July 14, 2007
Full days
Well so much for daily blogging! Let me tell you about how full the last few days have been for me (yes, I'm making excuses...)
Thursday was my sister's last full day here, before she had to fly back home to Colorado. We took advantage of the day, filling it from beginning to end. First, we took a drive out to South Point. She had not been before, and I had not been in about a year...I really need to get a 4WD vehicle so I can go there more often! (We went with some friends on Thursday.) It was a hot day, perfect for some time on the beach. We enjoyed walking, shelling, and a bit of wading both in the inlet and in one of the small tidal pools that form in low spots on the beach (these are my absolute favorite thing about South Point).
Later, we went parasailing. It was a BLAST, and not scary at all. (I had thought I might be a bit scared when we first lifted off the boat, but it was so gentle that I was completely relaxed.) We had a ball, and Hans dipped us down so our feet went into the water three separate times. The view of Silver Lake was lovely, and we thoroughly enjoyed our fly. I highly recommend it!
After parasailing, we did some more shopping. Then we went to Springer's Point for a while. Jocelyn lay in the sun, working on her tan, while I sat in the shade enjoying the view and my Mike's Hard Berry drink.
We headed to bed early after our first full day, to prepare for our next one. After getting just a few hours of sleep, we got up at 11:15 PM and headed to the midnight ferry to Hatteras. Jocelyn's flight out of Raleigh was at 6:15 AM on Friday, so leaving on the Thursday midnight ferry was the only way to get her there on time. After I dropped her off at the terminal, I parked the car in the parking garage and went to sleep in it! Then I headed home, stopping several times along the way to sleep some more. I ended up on the 3:30 PM ferry back to Ocracoke from Hatteras. The truly funny thing is that Jocelyn actually arrived in Colorado before I got back to the island!
So those were my too-full-to-blog days. Today was not as busy, and I think after a couple of naps I actually managed to get caught up on my sleep. Ah, the joys of living on an island accessible only by ferry.
Thursday was my sister's last full day here, before she had to fly back home to Colorado. We took advantage of the day, filling it from beginning to end. First, we took a drive out to South Point. She had not been before, and I had not been in about a year...I really need to get a 4WD vehicle so I can go there more often! (We went with some friends on Thursday.) It was a hot day, perfect for some time on the beach. We enjoyed walking, shelling, and a bit of wading both in the inlet and in one of the small tidal pools that form in low spots on the beach (these are my absolute favorite thing about South Point).
Later, we went parasailing. It was a BLAST, and not scary at all. (I had thought I might be a bit scared when we first lifted off the boat, but it was so gentle that I was completely relaxed.) We had a ball, and Hans dipped us down so our feet went into the water three separate times. The view of Silver Lake was lovely, and we thoroughly enjoyed our fly. I highly recommend it!
After parasailing, we did some more shopping. Then we went to Springer's Point for a while. Jocelyn lay in the sun, working on her tan, while I sat in the shade enjoying the view and my Mike's Hard Berry drink.
We headed to bed early after our first full day, to prepare for our next one. After getting just a few hours of sleep, we got up at 11:15 PM and headed to the midnight ferry to Hatteras. Jocelyn's flight out of Raleigh was at 6:15 AM on Friday, so leaving on the Thursday midnight ferry was the only way to get her there on time. After I dropped her off at the terminal, I parked the car in the parking garage and went to sleep in it! Then I headed home, stopping several times along the way to sleep some more. I ended up on the 3:30 PM ferry back to Ocracoke from Hatteras. The truly funny thing is that Jocelyn actually arrived in Colorado before I got back to the island!
So those were my too-full-to-blog days. Today was not as busy, and I think after a couple of naps I actually managed to get caught up on my sleep. Ah, the joys of living on an island accessible only by ferry.
Wednesday, July 11, 2007
Fryin' fish
My sister and I went to the Glass Bead shop and made jewelry today (she made an anklet, I made a bracelet). This is a fun way to spend an hour or two, and you get to go home with a lovely reminder of your vacation that you can wear. I recommend it, especially for a rainy, windy, or otherwise not-the-greatest beach day.
There was a fish fry this evening, to raise money for the Ocracoke Working Watermen's Association. I love being able to give to a good cause by eating! The fish was delicious of course, and all the fixins were available too (hush puppies, cole slaw, baked beans, etc.) It was an excellent dinner. Now I'm going to go eat the brownie I got with it. Maybe eating chocolate this close to bedtime will give me "sweet" dreams. :) G'night.
There was a fish fry this evening, to raise money for the Ocracoke Working Watermen's Association. I love being able to give to a good cause by eating! The fish was delicious of course, and all the fixins were available too (hush puppies, cole slaw, baked beans, etc.) It was an excellent dinner. Now I'm going to go eat the brownie I got with it. Maybe eating chocolate this close to bedtime will give me "sweet" dreams. :) G'night.
Tuesday, July 10, 2007
Stormy nights
There was a lightning and thunder storm in the early hours of morning last night (it woke me at about 5:40 this morning, and it had already been raining for a while at that point). It was overcast most of the day today, and now it is pouring. There has been some spectacular lightning and loud thunder over the last few minutes too.
Better post this blog before the power goes ou
Just kidding!
Seriously, here's hoping there aren't too many storms in your life at the moment!
Better post this blog before the power goes ou
Just kidding!
Seriously, here's hoping there aren't too many storms in your life at the moment!
Monday, July 9, 2007
Wow, time flies...
...when you are really busy! Sorry it has been so long since I blogged. I'll try to get back to "daily", since that is what the blog is called! :)
So since I last blogged, here's what has been keeping me so busy.
July 4 - was great fun as usual. There were some excellent sand sculptures on the beach, including Shrek lying in the sun, Davey Jones (from Pirates of the Caribbean, complete with creepy face tentacles), and several pirate themed ones. I am not sure who won, though. The parade was my favorite part of the day. Unfortunately, my camera battery died and I didn't have a spare with me, so I only got pictures of a handful of the floats. :( The fireworks went off from the beach with only a minor hitch (small fire on a dune, which was put out very quickly). I watched them from the car in Jason's restaurant parking lot, which was a fine viewing location and ensured I missed the traffic!
July 6 - I got my stitches out, but my cut is still healing. Dr. Moore put a sterile glue and butterfly bandages on it, and covered the whole thing with a cute red Crayola bandage.
July 7 - after a final rehearsal in the afternoon, the women of the Ocrafolk Opry presented our show at 8 PM to an appreciative crowd. It was a fun evening, and I have to agree with my friend Jamie that our duet performance of "Otto Titsling" will probably go down in infamy!
Yesterday and today were spent trying to get totally caught up on work, so I can take the rest of the week off and spend the time with my sister who is visiting until Friday. I am planning to play the "hometown tourist" while she is here, doing things like parasailing, shopping, eating ice cream, and just generally relaxing. Oh, yes, and blogging. Daily, of course!
So since I last blogged, here's what has been keeping me so busy.
July 4 - was great fun as usual. There were some excellent sand sculptures on the beach, including Shrek lying in the sun, Davey Jones (from Pirates of the Caribbean, complete with creepy face tentacles), and several pirate themed ones. I am not sure who won, though. The parade was my favorite part of the day. Unfortunately, my camera battery died and I didn't have a spare with me, so I only got pictures of a handful of the floats. :( The fireworks went off from the beach with only a minor hitch (small fire on a dune, which was put out very quickly). I watched them from the car in Jason's restaurant parking lot, which was a fine viewing location and ensured I missed the traffic!
July 6 - I got my stitches out, but my cut is still healing. Dr. Moore put a sterile glue and butterfly bandages on it, and covered the whole thing with a cute red Crayola bandage.
July 7 - after a final rehearsal in the afternoon, the women of the Ocrafolk Opry presented our show at 8 PM to an appreciative crowd. It was a fun evening, and I have to agree with my friend Jamie that our duet performance of "Otto Titsling" will probably go down in infamy!
Yesterday and today were spent trying to get totally caught up on work, so I can take the rest of the week off and spend the time with my sister who is visiting until Friday. I am planning to play the "hometown tourist" while she is here, doing things like parasailing, shopping, eating ice cream, and just generally relaxing. Oh, yes, and blogging. Daily, of course!
Tuesday, July 3, 2007
Fireworks update and answers to questions
UPDATE: the fireworks on July 4th will be shot off from the beach (near ramp 70) rather than near the harbor. "Why" is a long story with many boring details that you don't want to know but trust me when I say that many people worked long and hard to attempt to keep the fireworks in the village/near the harbor, to no avail. There was, briefly, a possibility that there would not be fireworks at all, so I don't want to hear any complaining... :)
A reader posted several questions pertaining to visiting the island. I thought this info. might be useful for a larger audience, so I'll try to answer the questions here.
Information about places to stay (hotels/motels/B&Bs/cottage rentals) is available here.
There are many things to do on the island. Here are just a few ideas:
- parasail
- rent a bike, scooter, or electric car and ride around the village, visiting shops and other points of interest
- rent a jetski and zip around on the surrounding waters
- enjoy the water at a slower, quieter pace in a kayak
- visit the Lighthouse, the British Cemetery, and the OPS Museum
- go fishing (surf fishing, gulf stream, sound, inlet, offshore wreck, etc.)
- go on a ghost and history walk (Tues. and Fri. nights)
- see a music show at Deepwater Theater (Tues, Wed, Thurs, and Fri. nights)
- take a pirate cruise or a sunset sail on the Schooner Windfall
- go exploring and/or shelling on nearby Portsmouth Island
- learn to surf
More info. and ideas, and links to some of the above mentioned activities are available here.
The "best" seafood is of course a personal opinion. I will say that all of the restaurants on the island serve fresh seafood, most of it caught right around here. There's a list of most of the island restaurants here.
The best attraction is also a personal opinion. My vote is for the lighthouse, or the beach itself, but you may prefer something else. Ocracoke is a great place to explore and see what you find.
The best route to catch a ferry depends on what direction you are coming from. Generally, from points south, your best option is Cedar Island. From points west, it's Swan Quarter or Hatteras; and from points north, Hatteras. A ride on either the Cedar Island or Swan Quarter ferry will cost $15 (for a regular car not towing anything), and reservations are strongly recommended (this time of year, especially). Call 1-800-BY-FERRY or visit the NC DOT Ferry website for more information.
Hope that helps. Enjoy your vacation!
A reader posted several questions pertaining to visiting the island. I thought this info. might be useful for a larger audience, so I'll try to answer the questions here.
Information about places to stay (hotels/motels/B&Bs/cottage rentals) is available here.
There are many things to do on the island. Here are just a few ideas:
- parasail
- rent a bike, scooter, or electric car and ride around the village, visiting shops and other points of interest
- rent a jetski and zip around on the surrounding waters
- enjoy the water at a slower, quieter pace in a kayak
- visit the Lighthouse, the British Cemetery, and the OPS Museum
- go fishing (surf fishing, gulf stream, sound, inlet, offshore wreck, etc.)
- go on a ghost and history walk (Tues. and Fri. nights)
- see a music show at Deepwater Theater (Tues, Wed, Thurs, and Fri. nights)
- take a pirate cruise or a sunset sail on the Schooner Windfall
- go exploring and/or shelling on nearby Portsmouth Island
- learn to surf
More info. and ideas, and links to some of the above mentioned activities are available here.
The "best" seafood is of course a personal opinion. I will say that all of the restaurants on the island serve fresh seafood, most of it caught right around here. There's a list of most of the island restaurants here.
The best attraction is also a personal opinion. My vote is for the lighthouse, or the beach itself, but you may prefer something else. Ocracoke is a great place to explore and see what you find.
The best route to catch a ferry depends on what direction you are coming from. Generally, from points south, your best option is Cedar Island. From points west, it's Swan Quarter or Hatteras; and from points north, Hatteras. A ride on either the Cedar Island or Swan Quarter ferry will cost $15 (for a regular car not towing anything), and reservations are strongly recommended (this time of year, especially). Call 1-800-BY-FERRY or visit the NC DOT Ferry website for more information.
Hope that helps. Enjoy your vacation!
Monday, July 2, 2007
Truly Silver Lake
I stopped by Silver Lake today, at one of my favorite spots to touch salt water, and what I saw took my breath away. The water was very calm, and the light was perfect. Silver Lake looked...well, silver. I was hungry, tired, feeling a bit cranky at the people yelling behind me, and had just thought of an errand I needed to run (and it was nearly 9 PM at this point). But still I stood there, staring at the loveliness of the scene for well over 15 minutes. I was simply transfixed and couldn't tear myself away. I stood, with my feet in the water, and watched as the last light faded and the first stars began to peek through the gaps in the ragged clouds. My patience was rewarded, as I was lucky enough to see an otter playing in the water. Everything else faded in the background, and only one thought filled my heart and mind: how I love this place.
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)
