Category: Life at the Shore

For a TRUE weather forecast at the beach, start with the temperature on the outside thermometer.  Subtract 10 degrees if there is a sustained northwest wind.  Add 5 back if there is sunshine and the dunes are blocking the wind.  Subtract 20 degrees if the wind is off the ocean- the dampness factor!

I often feel “over dressed” as I leave the house…then grateful for the extra layers once I am on the beach.

Last tip- if you walk fast and stay distracted by the views…you will feel warm(ish) even on the worst day 🙂

It never gets old.  As I walk down my block toward the beach, I am excited to see the sky and the sun over the ocean.  It really does look different to me each day…and I’m grateful for an outlet to share “my views”.  Have a great weekend!

Flowers blooming in our yard 🙂

In 2008, I purchased a pair of sturdy hiking shoes for a trip to Northern Ireland.  While traveling, I realized their cold, damp weather is similar to our winter at the Jersey shore. So why not wear something warmer than sneakers to walk on the beach?

After 4 seasons of regular use, the Rockport’s are ready for retirement.  The tread is worn, and (gasp) sand is somehow leaking inside the shoe.  Even though I live at the beach, sand is NOT welcome in my home ;) 

Footwear is so specific, and the sales people in the sport stores really want to help you find the most suitable shoe.  Did I sense a smirk when I requested hiking shoes for the beach?  Hey…I walk through the soft sand, and occasionally, climb over a jetty rock!

So, I spent more money than I expected, but beach hiking requires just the right shoe.  My feet are warm AND the sand stays outside on the porch with my shoes. 

Happy trails…

A glimpse of early sun, then rain, then clearing skies…and now rain again.

However, I have the window in my office open a few inches for some fresh salt air!

Fun “girls” weekend celebrating a milestone birthday for one. 

The four of us are less than 6 years apart total, and include a set of Irish twins (I am the same age as the other middle sister for almost 2 weeks each year!) 

We are fortunate to live relatively close to each other;  and continue to share holidays, and often, vacations as a large group.  

I think we appreciate our unique bond even more as we “mature”.  Life has taken us down different paths-  but we can always meet at the beach 🙂

As much as I appreciate the warm sun in January, a cloudy mix makes for incredible views during my beach walk.

 This is my “real estate” picture: the sun spot lighting the beach front homes!