Dottie's birthday journey

My mom hiked to the big rock today to celebrate her 79th birthday (really Feb. 29). Not too shabby. I bet Elizabeth Taylor (who is the same age) never could have made it. No seals today but two cute rock climbers instead.

My Big, Fat Gray Seal

Spotted four seals today over by the big rock at very low tide, around 1 p.m. They have very good eye sight because even though I was disguising myself as a large piece of sea weed, they still saw me.

wow it's windy

I have a lot to say today. First of all, there was more damage to the shore from the high winds and high tides. More trees have been uprooted and the wind and water have taken yet another bite out of the Smithtown Bay shoreline. This will surely be known as the winter that changed the geography of the shore. I keep hoping that a treasure will be revealed in the sand next time. The wind was phenomenal. It almost pushed you off your feet. I am posting my first video here today to show the wind. Let me know how it all works out. The wind was working magic on the water and forming amazing geometric designs at low tide. I visited a special spot on the hill that I go to sometimes because it gives a great view of the whole bay. It's like a watch tower. I thought about last May when I made the wonderful discovery of a wild lilac bush that was blooming just for me. I look forward to spring.

I love Fridays

Here are my two best buddies braving the cold night air. That was my birthday campfire. The other photos were taken Saturday. I was walking along the deserted beach, singing enthusiastically (Billy Joel) when I felt like I was being watched. I looked up and there was a herd of deer staring at me like they were either amazed or deeply offended. I tried getting their photo but by the time I took my gloves off, dug into my pocket for the camera, removed the cover...you get the idea. They were a half mile away.

Seals return

I feel better now that I finally saw a seal yesterday. I was becoming concerned. There was just one, but now I feel all is right with the world. I waved; he waved back. The snow on top of the big rock makes it look as if it was dipped in white icing like a giant strawberry. Just having the sun out for a few days makes it feel like spring is around the corner. I think I smelled it. Note: the seal is on the rock just below the ferry in the background.

Fire and ice

These are photos taken on Saturday-day(ice) and evening (fire). A walk on the beach this weekend turned up a dead blue heron and a dead duck. Winter is not all fun and games. It's harsh. No seals were sighted and I am starting to get concerned. Where are they? Too many poeple on the becah on Saturday. There were three. I hate crowds.

snow cap

My rock is wearing a snow cap. I was visiting the other day to see if there were any seals, but did not see any. Sure, I was disapppointed, but I fund a life vest washed ashore! Brand new (no one attached to it) and so now I have a spare for my guests to wear when kayaking. That's all for today.