Monday, January 17, 2011

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!

14 comments:

Pondside said...

Life is grand, indeed, when the day includes such a beautiful walk! I love the sunset - and the pretty island cat. Such a treat to have a look at such a day.

From Beyond My Kitchen Window said...

Wow, all your photos today are simply stunning. I know that that kitty is well cared for, but I wish it had a warm, soft lap to lay on.

Farm Girl said...

I love visiting the island with you. I do believe it must be one of the most beautiful places on earth. I loved all of your pictures too. Isn't it nice to be welcomed back home? You look pretty skinny to me lady. :)
So glad you had a very nice time.

acorn hollow said...

What a wonderful way to spend a day.
cathy

Jacque. said...

Lovely post, lovely quotes, lovely photos...thank you for sharing!

The Barn Door said...

Beautiful photos, I could imagine myself there! Without the cold though!

moosecraft said...

Wow! What a great day to enjoy and hold on to! Beautiful pics... and I have to say the one with the Robin is making me REALLLY happy! Spring can't be far behind, right? :-)

Eve said...

A nice winter island adventure Julie! Hope the winter is a short lived one!

Unknown said...

What a beautiful walk on a beautiful day, lucky you!

~Andrea~

Verde Farm said...

Julie, breathtaking. I LOVE Elliott too-what a sweet story and lucky kitty. The magnolia buds are wonderful and you can’t beat the sound of the songbirds. Gorgeous day my friend :)
Amy

DayPhoto said...

What a lovely walk! I love the bog boots also. Thanks for taking us along. Someday I'll get see in real life, I hope

Linda
http://coloradofarmlife.wordpress.com

Birgit said...

Looks like you had another beautiful day, now followed by another snow storm. Stay warm and safe!
Hugs~ birgit

Sassafras and Winterberry said...

You take beautiful photos. Maine is the greatest place. I went to college there and I've longed to return. I enjoy your blog.
thanks,
Courtney

Unknown said...

Beautiful, just beautiful.