 The Borough of Stone Harbor reported the construction of 2 new bird watching platforms at the point. The first one is easy to find- follow the driveway path off the 123rd Street parking lot. It’s basically a nice sun deck positioned on top of a dune- with exceptional views of the ocean, bay, wetlands, and birds (the official purpose of the site). Â
The 2nd, smaller platform is harder to find. Two choices: from the 1st platform, follow the crushed shell path west (toward the bridge) and look on your right. This one sits lower and closer to the marsh. Or, for a more interesting walk (at low tide only), follow the path at the end of Third Avenue- south of 122nd Street. The bay side of the point gives you a completely different perspective of the end of the island. The path will bring you around to the 2nd platform, and then you can continue your walk around to the beach side.
Tip- take advantage of the spring weather for the marsh walk. Once the warm weather arrives, so will the bugs 🙂
 The temperatures are still a bit cool, but seeing the calm water at high tide this morning makes me anxious to go kayaking. Our back bays warm up earlier than the ocean (my feet get wet as I launch the boat- but I make every effort not to flip over)- and it should be tolerable by next month. 
 Avalon and Stone Harbor beach tags are available for pre-season order through each municipality. Tags are reciprocal between the two towns, and the cost is the same as last year- $19 if purchased prior to May 31st. 
 The cold winds calmed down and bright sunshine helped our temperatures climb in to the 40’s today.  Much more comfortable for my walk on the beach. Tomorrow afternoon, my view will be the Rocky Mountains instead of the Atlantic Ocean!
 I drive by this park everyday- officially known as the Marion Armacost Memorial Park- but haven’t seen it up close for some time. There is a large playground area suitable for young children, plus swings for the young at heart. And bird watchers will appreciate the walkway to a platform viewing area. A great walking destination if you live nearby.
 And, although “spec” home construction is rare, we see more individual homeowners tearing down or transforming their existing homes with extensive renovations. It makes sense financially- the builders are anxious for work and providing competitive bids.
 Beautiful start for a February day- sun breaking through the clouds and mild temperatures. Glad I walked early- high winds and colder weather predicted for this afternoon 🙁
 What a bonus- 55 degree weather in February. Beautiful on the beach this morning.
 This is my typical walking attire in the winter- ski jacket with a hood, hat, gloves, and several layers underneath (it slows down my pace, but I have to be warm). Today, I still wore the goofy hat, but just a fleece jacket and the gloves came off halfway through.
 Yes, he saw his shadow, and brought us 50 degree weather and sunshine on Groundhog Day. Today, it’s snowing. Very unpredictable little bird!