 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.
 Well, the weather report was correct after all.Â
The warm temperatures lasted through the morning.  Clouds, light rain, and cooler air this afternoon- but still a decent day overall.
The soccer families staying in local motels are roaming the downtown shops and enjoying the restaurants- greatly appreciated  in the off season.
And a brilliant sunset to end the day…
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 🙂
 Be sure to look both ways as you enter the beach from the path- vehicles are permitted on the beach this time of year (with a valid municipal permit).
Also permitted in the off season- dogs. But only when on a leash. The police do their best to enforce this rule to keep the walkers (like me) and the dog owners happy.
A very pretty sight- the full moon over the ocean.  A cool, clear night to enjoy the view!
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.
During my walk after work yesterday, I passed another “local” on the beach.
Like me, she grew up on the island, and has lived/worked here her entire life. As we said hello, she commented “Isn’t it beautiful tonight?….this never gets old”. That says it all.
Even though we live at the shore full time, the appreciation for our surroundings doesn’t fade. In fact, I think we value it more as we “mature”!
Glad to see the regulars out on the sand, and glad to share their enthusiasm about our quiet little island at the shore.
http://www.capemaycountyherald.com/article/55144-sevenmile+schools+examine+consolidation+options
An article regarding the ongoing debate to consolidate the 2 elementary schools on the island. The State of New Jersey will eventually force action, so the hope is that the 2 communities can work together to determine a positive solution.
Back in the dark ages (when I attended Avalon Elementary), new families were moving to town and the school population was growing- even prompting an addition to the school in the early 1970’s. Stone Harbor’s class size has always been smaller than Avalon’s- creating social issues for the students.
Now, both schools rely on tuition students to partially fill the classrooms.Â
The Avalon Land and Homeowners Association has scheduled a meeting on October 7th at 7pm in the Avalon Elementary School- looking for public comment.
 A stroll after dinner is now in the dark.
And because the “critters” are active at that time of night, the best place to walk is in the street (the bike path is ideal).
Thankfully there are only a few cars on the road mid-week – so not a safety issue. In fact, wondering if the street lights should have motion detectors so that they only go on when a car or person is passing by?? Think of the energy savings!  😉
 In the fall, the sunsets at the shore are especially beautiful. It can look like huge a fireball over the bay.
For those of us who don’t live on the bay, we walk to find open viewing areas to the western sky.
Â
 Stone Harbor Point is a great spot- the birding platforms provide an amazing 360 degree view of the ocean, inlet, wetlands, and bay.
 Sad…to be wearing jeans and a sweatshirt for my walks the past few days.Â
I’ve seen a few hardy souls bundled up in their beach chairs determined to get some sun!
It’s not over yet- I know the temperatures will improve before we officially store our beach gear for the season. I’m counting on it!