ICE BLUE SKIES

Once again I traveled down the bay to the ROCK for the weekend (Long Island). This morning I borrowed my mother's BOG boots and headed out the door for an early morning walk. The sky was a crystal blue and temperatures in the low teens, a brisk and chilly start to the day. My Island coat is an old wool Maine Guide coat purchased in the late sixties by my dad. It is one of the warmest coats you'll ever find. My dad kindly relinquished the coat to my mom and she kindly shares it with me. I am often reminded "Julie you never dress warm enough" or "where is your hat" or "do you have something to put on your head"? I myself am a headband type of gal, my hair is so thick and wavy that hats have a way of "popping" off. After a walk across Singing Sands beach it is time to check on ELLIOTT the communal Island kitty. Elliott does have a warm home at her disposal however, her preference is to remain "outside". Islanders take the time to check on her and make sure her needs are met.

Elliott is always pleased to see my dad.... first thing in the morning her breakfast is delivered, with treats to be follow in the early afternoon. Believe me when I say Elliott is well cared for. A summer resident's vehicle awaits the spring thaw....

As I walked along bird songs filled the air. Chickadee.... Cardinal.... Titmouse.... Blue jay.... Mourning Dove.... Robins....

What a lovely sight to see on such a cold winter's morning....

"Bare branches of each tree

on this chilly January morn

look so cold and forlorn.

Gray skies dip ever so low

left from yesterday's dusting of snow.

Yet in the heart of each tree

waiting for each who wait and see

new life as warm sun and breeze blow,

like magic, unlock springs sap flow,

buds, new leaves, then blooms will grow."

~Nelda Hartman~

A garden sundial....

Magnolia buds....

"In the depths of winter I finally
learned that within me there lay an

invincible summer."

~Albert Camus~
Evergreen Methodist Church, our Island church....

Some lobster men still have there gear off....their day begins well before dawn.

To complete such a perfect day....a magnificent sunset was waiting for me when I returned home to Dog Trot Farm. Also waiting.... one hungry husband.... one tail wagging dog....one kitty warming my bed and eleven hens wanting to know when their dinner of hot oatmeal with raisins would be served. Life is grand!