 This is where I was during Monday’s storm. Sitting by a pool in Florida, reading a book, and enjoying the sun. I had no idea the weather back home was so nasty!
 Meanwhile…my husband was here and took this picture of the bay in Stone Harbor.Â
 And, this is the beach at 18th Street in Avalon today. There was beach erosion in both Avalon and Stone Harbor, and some damage to docks along the bay. A northeast storm is common in March- but unexpected in May.Â
Discounted seasonal beach tags are now on sale in both communities. If purchased by May 31st- $19 each; starting June 1st- $24 each. Beach tags are honored in both towns.
The revenue generated is used to offset the costs to maintain and guard our Seven Mile Beach- a very worthy cause!
 Moderate temperatures, but a foggy day at the shore. Hopefully, the moisture will help with my allergies/cough.
There is a boat show in Stone Harbor all weekend- 96th Street- with food vendors and music to enjoy as you dream of summer days on the water 🙂
There is likely an organized beach clean up on the island today, but my kind neighbors also brought trash bags along for their walk this morning to do their part.Â
The Earth Day events are important, and hit home. This past year, I had the opportunity to travel abroad. The French, for instance, expect you to bring your own grocery bags to the supermarket. And many of their light switches are on timers. In Northern Ireland, the heat was set to go on just twice a day; and water saving front loading washers are the norm.Â
As Americians, we should be leading the efforts to conserve energy and minimize our waste.  And, it’s a great excuse to be frugal!
 Flashback during my morning walk: when my sisters and I were young, we loved a stormy day at the beach- we would pretend the ocean foam was a giant bubble bath. Don’t smirk…you know you did it, too!
 Hard to see in this picture (my sneakers got wet even at this vantage point)- but there were 2 youngs girls swimming in the ocean yesterday. It was a nice day…however, the water temperature was only 50 degrees. Their father was standing watch at the water’s edge- bundled up in a sweat shirt and encouraging the girls to make it quick!
On this morning’s walk, I saw my first dolphins of the season. A real treat for April.
According to an article today in The Press of Atlantic City: www.pressofatlanticcity.com
Stone Harbor Mayor Suzanne Walters said the Borough will need a replenishment project, hopefully in the fall. The Borough is seeking state funding for 75% of a beach replenishment, which will likely cost several million dollars.
The erosion effects 98th through 111th Streets. The beach entrances will be graded to make them accessible.Â
As a side note- I walked that section of beach this morning- at high tide. There is definite damage to the dunes and less dry sand- but the beach is still there.
According to an article in this week’s Herald:Â www.capemaycountyherald.com
The Borough of Avalon has secured $1.5 million for an emergency beach fill project this fall. Replenishment in mid-May will open the beach paths on 10th, 11th, and 15th Streets- however the paths at 12th, 13th, and 14th Streets will remain closed.Â
In the past, the Borough has created walkways along the top of the dunes for a more convenient access for residents in the effected areas.
   Cool sea breeze yesterday- but a beautiful day for a walk along the beach.Â
 Waves of sand untouched by foot prints. That will change soon!
Noticed last night that “Quahog’s” is open on 97th Street (just off Second Avenue in the old Tri-Jo’s building).  The owners, who also own Sea Salt on 83rd and Third Avenue, renovated the space over the winter. I heard it will be a casual seafood/clam shack with take- out available. Anxious to give it a try.