As a seaside community, we have a limited number of trees. The change of colors in the fall take on a different meaning at the shore.Â
 The wild goldenrod blooms with yellow flowers in October - adding color to the sand dunes. And the back bay marsh grass fades from bright green to a more muted color- eventually turning brown in the winter.
Thankfully, the fading marsh grass is off set with brilliant fall sunsets.
 
 The pumpkins and mums in front of the year round homes look great, too!
 With the tourists gone, the sea gulls have turned “organic”. Instead of potato chips, the birds are feasting on crabs and small fish. Interesting to watch their hunting skills in action- dive bombing in the shallow water and actively searching the water’s edge. 
 Walked just before dark last night. I was admiring the beautiful bright red sky after sunset and the large crescent moon…until a critter crossed the street in my path. Thankfully, it ran behind a house without an official greeting!
 The seashore weather once again ignored the forecast- a beautiful sunny day for October 1st! Good day to wash windows and decks (the recent storms left behind a salty film). Then, walked along the water’s edge and enjoyed the beach. Not happy about the cooler temperatures arriving later tonight 🙁
    Kayak on the bay at high tide…and then
 take a long walk on the beach and watch the dolphins play.
 I have been selling real estate in Avalon and Stone Harbor since 1979 (a mere child when I started!) Our market has weathered many volatile cycles…and we will survive this crazy time as well. Frustrating that critical decisions may be based on political motives rather than what’s best for the country. 
 The wind direction has thankfully switched, giving our battered beaches time to recover from last week’s storm.  The tide reached the dune line in most areas, and the mightly Atlantic Ocean took down some snow fencing (not sure why we call it snow fencing when it’s in the dunes and rarely touched by snow?). I think the missing sand is gathering at the point- that area extends farther south each year. 
 The activity at the Stone Harbor Bird Sanctuary is increasing- both human and bird traffic. The new walkways and gardens are very attractive- worth a visit. 
Weekend Events
Columbus Day Weekend at the shore:Â
The Indian Summer Seafood Festival in Avalon- 30th Street and the beach; from 11 am to 5 pm Saturday and Sunday. Live music, family entertainment, and excellent food from local vendors.
In Stone Harbor- The Art & Music Festival all day Saturday and Sunday on 96th Street. Most downtown retail stores will be open all weekend, too.Â