Ann Delaney Beach Blog

Month: March 2011

  • Irish Roots

    Happy St. Patrick’s Day.

    This picture was taken in Belfast, Northern Ireland in 2008.  My husband was disappointed that the restaurant didn’t sell logo t-shirts. The owner said that’s an “American thing”!

    On my father’s side, my grandmother was from County Clare in the Republic of Ireland, and my grandfather grew up near Ballymena in Northern Ireland.  A real mixed marriage!

    They vacationed in Stone Harbor each summer when their 6 children were young, and eventually built a house in Avalon in the 1950’s.  A family business brought the grown sons and daughters (with spouses and young children)  from Philadelphia to Avalon shortly thereafter.

    After visiting the beautiful windswept coast of Northern Ireland, I can better understand my grandfather’s love of the shore.  We have sand in our shoes… and salt water in our blood  🙂

    Sláinte!

  • Favorite Destinations

    I love to travel.  Some destinations leave an “I’m glad we went, but no need to go again” feeling.  And then others have me thinking about a return visit before arriving home!

    So what creates our connection to certain locations? Is it vacation memories from childhood?  The environment?  The people?  The accommodations? 

    I grew up in the high dunes section of Avalon.  That explains why I am drawn to the woods/beach combination (Kiawah Island, SC and Carmel, CA are 2 favorites that come to mind).  And we live on a low key island year round, so Lana’i (Hawaii) with a population of 2,800 seemed just right.

    I often hear tenants and owners say they take a deep breath as they cross over the bridge into town- instant relaxation.  Avalon and Stone Harbor have the qualities that bring families to our island year after year. 

    Those of us who live here understand…and appreciate our unique surroundings.

  • Sunday Sights

    Incredible morning for a walk before work.  Warmer temperatures called for a downgrade from my winter jacket to a fleece!

    People out on bikes, lights on in houses, and “open” flags in front of businesses- a true spring weekend at the shore.

  • Beach Wear

    This picture is deceiving. 

    Watching the forecast on TV and checking the outside thermometer can be as well. 

    I often leave the house feeling a bit over-layered for a walk, but I know there can be a major difference in “weather” once I reach the beach! 

    We are grateful for the sun, more moderate temperatures, and signs of spring around the island.  Dress warm, and enjoy the weekend 🙂

  • Stormy Day

    So far…so good. 

    It looks like Avalon and Stone Harbor will miss most of the heavy rain- at least for today.

    The ocean is churning, and lapping the beach paths at high tide. 

    Repeat after me: “it’s almost spring…it’s almost spring…it’s almost spring”  🙂

  • Beach (House) Parking

    The beach parking lot adjacent to the boardwalk in Avalon, NJ serves as a temporary staging area for modular home components.  

    Once the site work is complete, multiple pieces are delivered to the lot and assembled.

    Modular construction has found its niche in our market.  The company reps promote moderate cost savings, and a quick turn around time for completion.

  • Multi-tasking

    Found on my morning walk:  Monday’s newspaper (yesterday’s high winds “delivered” it one block down); 2 swinging storm doors (secured both); fresh salt air and natural vitamin D.

    Chilly temperatures earlier, but less wind and bright sunshine will warm us through the day.

  • Condo by the Beach!

    New on the market today in Avalon, NJ:

    3 bedroom, 2 full bath 2nd floor condominium unit located just 1/2 block to the beach.  Exterior and interior renovations.  Quality furnishings, appliances, and electronics included- completely turn key!  $559,000.

    A link to the Multiple Listing information and interior pictures:

    http://CapeMay.fnismls.com/publink/default.aspx?GUID=29b1b5f1-92fd-48e6-8bf7-f7416f131655&Report=Yes

    And,videos on YouTube: http://www.youtube.com/AnnDelaneyBeach

    Strong rental history, stable condo association, and an excellent location. A true carefree retreat at the shore!  Questions?  ann@anndelaney.com

    Thank you for your interest!

  • Sunday Sights

    The “waves” in the sand verify the recent shift in wind direction.

    Spring moisture arrives with the predominate south and southeast winds; keeping  it cooler (and damp!) by the ocean.

    A light drizzle this morning for my walk.  Heavier rain expected later  🙁

  • Another Sunrise Picture

    I took this amazing picture today during my morning walk, and posted it on Twitter.  Decided to share it on my blog, too.

    Incredible views and fresh salt air air motivate me to bundle up for the beach each day…plus cheaper than joining a gym 😉