 I’m feeling pressure to take advantage of the warm sun and moderate temperatures.  It sounds like we will be wearing SHOES and SOCKS later this week  🙁
The bay was a bit choppy, but with high tide conveniently at the end of my work day- kayaking was on the schedule.
A snowy egret and blue heron watched me pass from the marsh. Otherwise, had the bay to myself.
 The news reported falling temperatures, but it’s still 70 degrees at the shore.
Perfect weather to enjoy the local soccer tournaments, the Avalon Seafood Festival (30th and the beach), and the Stone Harbor Art Show (96th Street).
Or, take a walk along the beach and see the odd looking jelly fish. Quite pretty actually…for jelly fish.
Have a great weekend!
Welcome to the off season.Â
The comfortable sea breeze we love in the summer becomes plain old wind that challenges our outdoor activities.  Â
I walked on the beach yesterday morning- the sand was still wet from the rain, so I wasn’t completely sand blasted. The trick is to head into the wind so that the walk back is easy!
 Worth the extra effort to see the ocean and sky after the storm 🙂
Too foggy this morning to take a picture.  Kayaked on the bay- a bit eerie because I really couldn’t see! Figured I would hear a boat coming- plus, boaters are usually smarter than kayakers about going out in the fog 😉
I scared a few ducks (they couldn’t see me either until I was next to them on the water), but otherwise, had the bay to myself.  Very peaceful.
I recently read an interesting article about the distinct odor of the back bay marsh. The smell is actually caused by decay and rot, and people either love it or hate it. We call it the “low tide” smell- but don’t find it offensive- it’s just part of the seashore experience.
Busy weekend in the Wildwoods.Â
The popular Irish Festival takes over several blocks in North Wildwood- ironically, near the bars!
On the boardwalk- the Classic Car Show and Auction. Hundreds of vintage cars on display from North Wildwood down to the Convention Center. The long walk to admire the cars will justify the boardwalk snacks along the way!
http://www.wetlandsinstitute.org/wnw.html
Perfect weather all weekend for the annual Wings & Water Festival. Events continue through today in Avalon, Stone Harbor, and Middle Township.
Just like the barrier islands along the Jersey Shore, the islands of Hawaii each have their own distinct character.
Oahu has freeways, high rises, congestion, and rush hour…along with rural areas of beautiful mountains and secluded beaches.Â
Living on a low key island here, the busy atmosphere of Oahu was not for me. Glad to see the landmarks (including the North Shore beaches pictured), and I understand the attraction for those who stay up past 10pm- great restaurants and nightlife.  But not the ideal “Hawaii” for me.
 The first part of our trip to Hawaii was on the island of Oahu.
And our tour of the Pearl Harbor area was just a few days before 9/11. Â
Watching the video in the visitor’s center, I couldn’t help but compare the two events. A profound history lesson.
 
 My definition of rush hour: when I rush to get over to the bay to kayak for an hour or so before work.
The moon was still out this morning when I started out- very pretty and peaceful.
Walking back, I encountered bikers, runners, and cars- the island is definitely awake and ready for the holiday weekend!
Cheer on the participants tomorrow morning in the TK 7 Mile and 5K Race. The race starts at 8:30 am at the Community Hall. http://www.timkerrcharities.org/
  Visit the TK Charities web site for information regarding the Saturday 9/5 Splash and Dash (youth event) and the Sunday 9/6 Tim Kerr 7 Mile run: http://timkerrcharities.org/7-mile-run.htm
Volunteers are always appreciated to help with street traffic during the race. Or participate as a runner/walker in the race!