Men in Green

Hunting season is here again.  The few out of town cars on the island invariably are trucks full of men wearing camoflauge.  I assume the ducks are loving this cold snap, although it may be too sunny for them.  I've been appreciating the amazing winter sunsets, with their deep hues and richly reflected clouds.  My guess is the hunters are similarly enjoying the sunrises from their blinds and sinkboxes, but I can't personally report on those.  Sunrise happens kinda early in the morning.

Ocracoke Island had spectacular weather during the recent holiday season.  Balmy, even.  People were wearing T-shirts and shorts, comfortably.  The many people who come to ring in the New Year must have been as delighted as the rest of us. Shopkeepers were happy to open and have some business; Jason's, Gaffer's and the Pony Island Restaurants were bustling, and rental homes welcomed guests.  I know everyone is grateful for the economic support after an abbreviated fall season due to Hurricane Irene.

I found out too late about Ocracoke's New Year's Day Polar Bear Club.  Bummer.  I'll participate in 2013.  But no matter:  I went swimming a few days after returning home on December 19.  The water was warmer, by a degree or two, than the Mediterranean Sea when I swam in early December.  Or maybe I'm just glad to be home!