Village Craftsmen's Howard Street gallery will be closed after today, until mid-February. Jude, Dallie, Dale, & I will all be taking off for at least two weeks. Some of us will be here on the island, enjoying this wonderful place in the off-season; others will be traveling a bit. We will not be posting on the journal until sometime in mid-January. Please keep in mind that after January 15 we will again be processing internet and mail orders, although our Howard Street gallery won't re-open until mid-February.
We hope you all have a fantastic 2007, and we hope you understand that islanders need a little time off too, now and then! And....we look forward to seeing you again in the coming year.
This month's Ocracoke Newsletter is Jamie Tunnell's story about Dory Fishing on Ocracoke's Beach. Click on the link to read it.
Friday, December 29, 2006
Thursday, December 28, 2006
Sand Angel
In the bleak mid-winter, with snow drifted high against the picket fences, and ice crystals hanging in the air, children are wont to lie down, bundled up with woolen caps, colorful scarves, and warm mittens, and. by moving their outstretched arms, make snow angels.
Well, it's not like that on the island this Christmas season. Even though it's cool today (well, OK, a young man just walked into the Village Craftsmen in his t-shirt), it is bright and sunny. Yesterday, as Lou Ann and I wandered back to the walk-over ramp at the lifeguard beach we spied a "sand angel" in the dunes. I suppose it was some child (maybe even a young-spirited adult) from way up north who missed the snow.
Some island news: This Saturday, December 30, the Ocracoke Working Watermen's Association, a non-profit organization dedicated to keeping the island's last fish house open, operating, and profitable, will be sponsoring a seafood dinner at mid-day, and an evening of storytelling with nationally famous islander, Donald Davis, at the Community Center. Come on out and support both events if you are on the island.
One more thing: Tomorrow will be our last journal entry for a couple of weeks. We are all taking much needed vacations and Village Craftsmen will be closed, including our internet business. Even though some of us are staying on the island, we will not be posting until at least the middle of January. I'll remind you all again tomorrow.
This month's Ocracoke Newsletter is Jamie Tunnell's story about Dory Fishing on Ocracoke's Beach. Click on the link to read it.
Well, it's not like that on the island this Christmas season. Even though it's cool today (well, OK, a young man just walked into the Village Craftsmen in his t-shirt), it is bright and sunny. Yesterday, as Lou Ann and I wandered back to the walk-over ramp at the lifeguard beach we spied a "sand angel" in the dunes. I suppose it was some child (maybe even a young-spirited adult) from way up north who missed the snow.
Some island news: This Saturday, December 30, the Ocracoke Working Watermen's Association, a non-profit organization dedicated to keeping the island's last fish house open, operating, and profitable, will be sponsoring a seafood dinner at mid-day, and an evening of storytelling with nationally famous islander, Donald Davis, at the Community Center. Come on out and support both events if you are on the island.
One more thing: Tomorrow will be our last journal entry for a couple of weeks. We are all taking much needed vacations and Village Craftsmen will be closed, including our internet business. Even though some of us are staying on the island, we will not be posting until at least the middle of January. I'll remind you all again tomorrow.
This month's Ocracoke Newsletter is Jamie Tunnell's story about Dory Fishing on Ocracoke's Beach. Click on the link to read it.
Wednesday, December 27, 2006
A Walk on the Beach
Christmas Day has come and gone, but the holiday continues. Lights glow on homes, candles shine in windows, and wreaths decorate fences. lamposts, and even the lighthouse.
We went to the beach yesterday. The wind was blowing sand across our path, making walking something of a chore. However, the temperature was Spring-like. Today it is cooler, but the wind has died down, so our walk on the beach was easier. Lou Ann is here, so we walked and talked.
Tonight we'll look after Lachlan while mama & papa spend the evening with David's family (his mother, father, sister, and brother-in-law are visiting this week). After Lachlan goes to sleep Lou Ann & I will open our Christmas stockings (with all of the family events these last few days -- including having my brother as a house guest -- we neglected our stockings). We'll turn on the gas log stove, light a few candles, and pull up an antique quilt. We might even brew a pot of tea and serve ourselves sticky buns (a gift today from Linda & Al).
Life is good.
This month's Ocracoke Newsletter is Jamie Tunnell's story about Dory Fishing on Ocracoke's Beach. Click on the link to read it.
We went to the beach yesterday. The wind was blowing sand across our path, making walking something of a chore. However, the temperature was Spring-like. Today it is cooler, but the wind has died down, so our walk on the beach was easier. Lou Ann is here, so we walked and talked.
Tonight we'll look after Lachlan while mama & papa spend the evening with David's family (his mother, father, sister, and brother-in-law are visiting this week). After Lachlan goes to sleep Lou Ann & I will open our Christmas stockings (with all of the family events these last few days -- including having my brother as a house guest -- we neglected our stockings). We'll turn on the gas log stove, light a few candles, and pull up an antique quilt. We might even brew a pot of tea and serve ourselves sticky buns (a gift today from Linda & Al).
Life is good.
This month's Ocracoke Newsletter is Jamie Tunnell's story about Dory Fishing on Ocracoke's Beach. Click on the link to read it.
Tuesday, December 26, 2006
Boxing Day
We hope all of our readers had a very merry Christmas with family & friends. Mine was just wonderful. Pot luck dinners, Christmas carols, games around the dining room table, opening presents.....it was all fun and full of good cheer.
And it's not over. Lou Ann & I are off to another dinner in moments. Maybe I'll have time tomorrow to share more island news. (Never got to do the "Boxing Day" thing this afternoon, by the way!) Bye.
And it's not over. Lou Ann & I are off to another dinner in moments. Maybe I'll have time tomorrow to share more island news. (Never got to do the "Boxing Day" thing this afternoon, by the way!) Bye.
Saturday, December 23, 2006
Merry Christmas!
To all of our readers, neighbors, and friends of Ocracoke, all of us at Village Craftsmen wish you the merriest Christmas ever!
We will be taking a few days hiatus to celebrate the holiday. Look for a new journal entry on Tuesday, December 26.
From, Philip, Dallie, Jude, & Dale.
We will be taking a few days hiatus to celebrate the holiday. Look for a new journal entry on Tuesday, December 26.
From, Philip, Dallie, Jude, & Dale.
Friday, December 22, 2006
Another Pot Luck!
Yesterday was the winter solstice, the shortest day of the year -- the right occasion for a pot luck dinner. David's mother, father, sister, and brother-in-law are all on the island for Christmas this year. So we figured it was the perfect time to combine a family get-together with a solstice pot luck.
As in years past, I baked a spice cake with a bean mixed in. Eight-year-old Caroline found the bean in her slice of cake and was duly crowned Queen of the Solstice. She sat upon her throne (actually a wooden stool), wrapped in her royal robes (a throw with sun, moon, and stars on it), with a tin foil crown on her head. We all paid homage to the Queen, who then proceeded to give commands to her subjects. Her older brother was less than happy with how the night's events unfolded.
The Queen then turned the evening over to the adults. The night continued with feats of dexterity, poems, and songs, especially Christmas Carols. Everyone left filled with good food, good cheer, and good thoughts. Happy Solstice to everyone!
This month's Ocracoke Newsletter is Jamie Tunnell's story about Dory Fishing on Ocracoke's Beach. Click on the link to read it.
As in years past, I baked a spice cake with a bean mixed in. Eight-year-old Caroline found the bean in her slice of cake and was duly crowned Queen of the Solstice. She sat upon her throne (actually a wooden stool), wrapped in her royal robes (a throw with sun, moon, and stars on it), with a tin foil crown on her head. We all paid homage to the Queen, who then proceeded to give commands to her subjects. Her older brother was less than happy with how the night's events unfolded.
The Queen then turned the evening over to the adults. The night continued with feats of dexterity, poems, and songs, especially Christmas Carols. Everyone left filled with good food, good cheer, and good thoughts. Happy Solstice to everyone!
This month's Ocracoke Newsletter is Jamie Tunnell's story about Dory Fishing on Ocracoke's Beach. Click on the link to read it.
Thursday, December 21, 2006
Carolers
Last night Amy, David, Lachlan, and I were enjoying dinner together at my house when we heard a knock at the door. Upon opening the door we were greeted by a dozen or so Christmas carolers. Sundae had told me that a group of folks would be out caroling one more time (they'd already been around the village last week), and invited me to join them. But I forgot about it.
So here I was, thinking, "I must be getting old. Carolers usually go to old people's homes." But Lachlan was there with me and that made it seem better. After serenading us with several songs the carolers asked for a request. Deck the Halls is Lachlan's favorite seasonal song, so we all joined in, with especially robust "Fa, la, la, la, la, la, la, la, las."
This month's Ocracoke Newsletter is Jamie Tunnell's story about Dory Fishing on Ocracoke's Beach. Click on the link to read it.
So here I was, thinking, "I must be getting old. Carolers usually go to old people's homes." But Lachlan was there with me and that made it seem better. After serenading us with several songs the carolers asked for a request. Deck the Halls is Lachlan's favorite seasonal song, so we all joined in, with especially robust "Fa, la, la, la, la, la, la, la, las."
This month's Ocracoke Newsletter is Jamie Tunnell's story about Dory Fishing on Ocracoke's Beach. Click on the link to read it.
Wednesday, December 20, 2006
Ocracoke Bomb Scare
I'll bet that got your attention. And it's true. Well, actually it was a hand grenade. Or at least that's the story I heard. Here's what's going around the village -- last night, around 7 o'clock the sheriff's deputies got word that workers discovered a hand grenade in the attic of a house they were remodeling. Anyone on the island who knew anything about grenades said, "Call the bomb squad from Cherry Point." No argument from me on that one.
As you may know, Ocracoke is a long way from Cherry Point. The bomb squad missed the Cedar Island ferry, so they "drove around" (the DOT ran a special Hatteras Inlet ferry for them about 2 o'clock in the morning).
In the meanwhile the road by the Coffee Company was cordoned off for hours, and nearby residents were evacuated. Must have been quite a scene.
The bomb squad put the grenade in a special protected box and in a matter of minutes the threat was diffused, and the road was reopened in the middle of the night.
I've heard the grenade was at least 45 years old,and I'm guessing it was from World War II. Seems to me like an odd thing to store in your attic for 60 years. And who knows how many children might have been rummaging around in boxes up there. Let that be a lesson for you all. Keep your WWII grenades locked up in a safe place!
I can't vouch for all of the above details, but I did see the cop cars in that vicinity last night when I rode my bike by just after 7 o'clock.
So another exciting adventure ends safely on Ocracoke Island! Keep reading our Ocracoke Journal for all the late-breaking island news.
(I related this whole tale to Lou Ann last night, and, not to be outdone, she told me about the lead story in her local newspaper yesterday -- some miscreant, in the dark of night, has been letting the air out of her town's blow-up santas! At least we don't have that threat to worry about. Not yet, at least.)
This month's Ocracoke Newsletter is Jamie Tunnell's story about Dory Fishing on Ocracoke's Beach. Click on the link to read it.
As you may know, Ocracoke is a long way from Cherry Point. The bomb squad missed the Cedar Island ferry, so they "drove around" (the DOT ran a special Hatteras Inlet ferry for them about 2 o'clock in the morning).
In the meanwhile the road by the Coffee Company was cordoned off for hours, and nearby residents were evacuated. Must have been quite a scene.
The bomb squad put the grenade in a special protected box and in a matter of minutes the threat was diffused, and the road was reopened in the middle of the night.
I've heard the grenade was at least 45 years old,and I'm guessing it was from World War II. Seems to me like an odd thing to store in your attic for 60 years. And who knows how many children might have been rummaging around in boxes up there. Let that be a lesson for you all. Keep your WWII grenades locked up in a safe place!
I can't vouch for all of the above details, but I did see the cop cars in that vicinity last night when I rode my bike by just after 7 o'clock.
So another exciting adventure ends safely on Ocracoke Island! Keep reading our Ocracoke Journal for all the late-breaking island news.
(I related this whole tale to Lou Ann last night, and, not to be outdone, she told me about the lead story in her local newspaper yesterday -- some miscreant, in the dark of night, has been letting the air out of her town's blow-up santas! At least we don't have that threat to worry about. Not yet, at least.)
This month's Ocracoke Newsletter is Jamie Tunnell's story about Dory Fishing on Ocracoke's Beach. Click on the link to read it.
Tuesday, December 19, 2006
Post Office Elves
Sporting green aprons with the words "Santa's Helper," Ocracoke's postmaster, Celeste, and her assistant, Melissa, are making Christmas gift sending a happy experience. The post office is decked out with red stockings, a decorated tree, and wrapped packages. Our two elves are even offering customers Christmas candies when they step up to the counter.
Celeste and Melissa are definitely in the holiday spirit. Thanks to both of them (and Dale, too -- he took the photos, and works behind the scenes sans apron) for all of their good cheer and terrific service!
Celeste at the Counter:
Melissa & Celeste Enjoying their Work:
This month's Ocracoke Newsletter is Jamie Tunnell's story about Dory Fishing on Ocracoke's Beach. Click on the link to read it.
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Celeste and Melissa are definitely in the holiday spirit. Thanks to both of them (and Dale, too -- he took the photos, and works behind the scenes sans apron) for all of their good cheer and terrific service!
Celeste at the Counter:
Melissa & Celeste Enjoying their Work:
This month's Ocracoke Newsletter is Jamie Tunnell's story about Dory Fishing on Ocracoke's Beach. Click on the link to read it.
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Monday, December 18, 2006
The Blanche
116 years ago yesterday the 2 masted schooner, Blanche, bound for Boston, was sunk on Ocracoke's beach, about 300 yards from shore in stormy weather. Keeper James Howard's shipwreck report is transcribed below (I have preserved his spelling and punctuation as faithfully as possible, though parts of the report are difficult to decipher).
He describes firing lines to the stricken vessel, which then allow the station crew to haul the eight sailors ashore by means of the breeches buoy (a life ring with leather "breeches" attached to it, that traveled along a sturdy line anchored on one end to a wooden crotch planted in the sand, and on the other end tied to the ship's mast or rigging).
Note that surfman Ballance spied the Blanche early in the morning (at 7 am according to another part of the report), and arrived at the station an hour and a half later. It took the surfmen five hours to pull the beach cart 12 miles down the beach, contending with strong winds and rising water. It was another six hours before they returned to the station, after saving eight sailors. They had given their all for nearly twelve straight hours. And this was all in December. It is difficult to imagine today what fortitude and bravery it took to be a member of the Life Saving Crew on the Outer Banks one hundred years ago. Notice that Keeper Howard asks in his report that the government add another station on Ocracoke.
Here is Keeper Howard's report:
"H.H. Ballance out on beach discover a vessel ashore on beach in breakers, sunk finding live men on board, put whip to his horse for the station, arriving to station 8:30 reported sch shore on Ocracoke beach with distress signals flying.
"Keeper immeatly cauld out crew. Hitch up team, tuck apparatus cart, left station 9 am for sch. Surf very rough running over beach, wind SW fresh gale witch mad our progress very slow, the distance about 12 miles with water and wind to contend with it was all we cold do reaching abrest wreck sch. Wee was nea fag out but seeing the condition of the wreck men, wee tuck curedg went at work.
1st shot was unsuckcessfull, hauld shot ashore gain. The nex shot line drop cros vessel, the crew of sch got line, hauling off whip shot line, no. 7 parted. The third shot line drop acros wreck crew got the line hauld of whip line made fast in starboard riging. Sent off hausser, the current so strong and forse of sea was hard to handle the gear. Men from the settlement rendered us valable service.
Hop n to haul on gear. After hausser hauld taugh, buoy sent off landing in all eight persons all right. Hade to cut our hausser, cut shot line, current so feirce cold not resk it, so cut them, one shot lost. The wreck crew was very bad off. They had life lines run around them to keep them from washing over board. All that peple that was there to see the site and my judgement seas ther was noth elce cold saved the crew. Pleas gave us another station. Capt. was very thankful and many thanks for our assistance."
This month's Ocracoke Newsletter is Jamie Tunnell's story about Dory Fishing on Ocracoke's Beach. Click on the link to read it.
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He describes firing lines to the stricken vessel, which then allow the station crew to haul the eight sailors ashore by means of the breeches buoy (a life ring with leather "breeches" attached to it, that traveled along a sturdy line anchored on one end to a wooden crotch planted in the sand, and on the other end tied to the ship's mast or rigging).
Note that surfman Ballance spied the Blanche early in the morning (at 7 am according to another part of the report), and arrived at the station an hour and a half later. It took the surfmen five hours to pull the beach cart 12 miles down the beach, contending with strong winds and rising water. It was another six hours before they returned to the station, after saving eight sailors. They had given their all for nearly twelve straight hours. And this was all in December. It is difficult to imagine today what fortitude and bravery it took to be a member of the Life Saving Crew on the Outer Banks one hundred years ago. Notice that Keeper Howard asks in his report that the government add another station on Ocracoke.
Here is Keeper Howard's report:
"H.H. Ballance out on beach discover a vessel ashore on beach in breakers, sunk finding live men on board, put whip to his horse for the station, arriving to station 8:30 reported sch shore on Ocracoke beach with distress signals flying.
"Keeper immeatly cauld out crew. Hitch up team, tuck apparatus cart, left station 9 am for sch. Surf very rough running over beach, wind SW fresh gale witch mad our progress very slow, the distance about 12 miles with water and wind to contend with it was all we cold do reaching abrest wreck sch. Wee was nea fag out but seeing the condition of the wreck men, wee tuck curedg went at work.
1st shot was unsuckcessfull, hauld shot ashore gain. The nex shot line drop cros vessel, the crew of sch got line, hauling off whip shot line, no. 7 parted. The third shot line drop acros wreck crew got the line hauld of whip line made fast in starboard riging. Sent off hausser, the current so strong and forse of sea was hard to handle the gear. Men from the settlement rendered us valable service.
Hop n to haul on gear. After hausser hauld taugh, buoy sent off landing in all eight persons all right. Hade to cut our hausser, cut shot line, current so feirce cold not resk it, so cut them, one shot lost. The wreck crew was very bad off. They had life lines run around them to keep them from washing over board. All that peple that was there to see the site and my judgement seas ther was noth elce cold saved the crew. Pleas gave us another station. Capt. was very thankful and many thanks for our assistance."
This month's Ocracoke Newsletter is Jamie Tunnell's story about Dory Fishing on Ocracoke's Beach. Click on the link to read it.
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Sunday, December 17, 2006
A Quiet Day on the Island
About 20 minutes ago I received the following puzzle in my email. It's quiet on the island today so I thought it would be fun to mess about with it. If you've got a few minutes for a puzzle read on.
Post a comment if you want to explain the puzzle. I've already posted my explanation. Just click on "comments" below if you want to post or peek. (It really is quiet here today!!)
AGE BY DINER & RESTAURANT MATH
DON'T CHEAT BY SCROLLING DOWN FIRST!
It takes less than a minute .
Work this out as you read .
Be sure you don't read the bottom until you've worked it out!
1. First of all, pick the number of times a week that you would like to go out to eat. (more than once but less than 10)
2. Multiply this number by 2 (just to be bold)
3. Add 5
4. Multiply it by 50
5. If you have already had your birthday this year add 1756.
If you haven't, add 1755.
6. Now subtract the four digit year that you were born. You should have a three digit number
The first digit of this was your original number
(i.e., how many times you want to go out to restaurants in a week.)
The next two numbers are YOUR AGE! (Oh YES, it is!!!!!)
THIS IS THE ONLY YEAR (2006) IT WILL EVER WORK, SO SPREAD IT AROUND WHILE IT LASTS."
This month's Ocracoke Newsletter is Jamie Tunnell's story about Dory Fishing on Ocracoke's Beach. Click on the link to read it.
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Post a comment if you want to explain the puzzle. I've already posted my explanation. Just click on "comments" below if you want to post or peek. (It really is quiet here today!!)
AGE BY DINER & RESTAURANT MATH
DON'T CHEAT BY SCROLLING DOWN FIRST!
It takes less than a minute .
Work this out as you read .
Be sure you don't read the bottom until you've worked it out!
1. First of all, pick the number of times a week that you would like to go out to eat. (more than once but less than 10)
2. Multiply this number by 2 (just to be bold)
3. Add 5
4. Multiply it by 50
5. If you have already had your birthday this year add 1756.
If you haven't, add 1755.
6. Now subtract the four digit year that you were born. You should have a three digit number
The first digit of this was your original number
(i.e., how many times you want to go out to restaurants in a week.)
The next two numbers are YOUR AGE! (Oh YES, it is!!!!!)
THIS IS THE ONLY YEAR (2006) IT WILL EVER WORK, SO SPREAD IT AROUND WHILE IT LASTS."
This month's Ocracoke Newsletter is Jamie Tunnell's story about Dory Fishing on Ocracoke's Beach. Click on the link to read it.
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Saturday, December 16, 2006
Painted Bunting
Yesterday Dale told me that he and Jaren had a strikingly beautiful bird visiting their back yard. After a bit of research they determined that it was a Painted Bunting.
According to the Audubon Society Field Guide to North American Birds this "sparrow-size....gaudy finch is one of the most beautiful birds in North America." North Carolina appears to be its northernmost range, and it normally "skulks among dense thickets" making it difficult to see. Luckily for us it has ventured onto Dale & Jaren's feeder, although Dale says it darts away at the least sound or sight of another bird.
(All photos by Dale Mutro.)
According to the Audubon Society Field Guide to North American Birds this "sparrow-size....gaudy finch is one of the most beautiful birds in North America." North Carolina appears to be its northernmost range, and it normally "skulks among dense thickets" making it difficult to see. Luckily for us it has ventured onto Dale & Jaren's feeder, although Dale says it darts away at the least sound or sight of another bird.
(All photos by Dale Mutro.)
This month's Ocracoke Newsletter is Jamie Tunnell's story about Dory Fishing on Ocracoke's Beach. Click on the link to read it..
Friday, December 15, 2006
Tidbits
Lots of little things to share this morning:
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- We at Village Craftsmen had our "End of the Season" dinner last night at Jason's. I think it is fair to say that we laughed our way through the meal. We really were loud. Lucky for us there weren't many other people in the restaurant, and those that were (I think we knew them all) just rolled their eyes and shook their heads.
- After dinner, at 7 o'clock, we strolled over to the school for their annual Christmas Program. There was lots of music and dancing. One particularly noteworthy skit, "Christmas Time on the Sound Side," (or, maybe it should have been called "Christmas Toime on the Sinde Soide") was written by middle schooler Chante Mason. The audience laughed heartily when a group of "tourists," fascinated by the line in the middle of the road, said, in effect, "There's traffic coming from both directions, so let's go stand in the middle of the road and look at it."
- Walking home down Howard Street (all alone I might add, and beside the many graveyards) I had to pass through thick, rolling fog. The fog, and an accompanying light cool wind, gave a decidedly creepy feeling to the night.
- It's foggy again this morning. Haven't heard if the ferries are running. Yesterday they were delayed several hours because of the thick fog. It makes the village even quieter than usual this time of year.
- Happy Hanukkah to all of our Jewish friends!
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Wednesday, December 13, 2006
OCBA
Last night's Civic & Business Association Christmas dinner and December meeting was yet another fantastic pot luck. It was a small group, but the food was stellar -- sweet potato casserole, meat loaf, salads, macaroni, vegetable pastries, beans, and much more. Oh yes, there was a table full of cookies, pies, and puddings, too.
And the meeting was short. I was home by 8 o'clock. OCBA members have been doing lots of good things this past year. If governmental beauracracies will move on certain issues we may eventually get a trolley to serve Ocracoke village, more parking at the lighthouse, and additional handicapped facilities. If all goes well, we might also have sidewalks in portions of the village. In other news, the new Ocracoke Working Watermen's Association appears to be doing well. Look for more news soon about activities planned for December 30.
This month's Ocracoke Newsletter is Jamie Tunnell's story about Dory Fishing on Ocracoke's Beach. Click on the link to read it.
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And the meeting was short. I was home by 8 o'clock. OCBA members have been doing lots of good things this past year. If governmental beauracracies will move on certain issues we may eventually get a trolley to serve Ocracoke village, more parking at the lighthouse, and additional handicapped facilities. If all goes well, we might also have sidewalks in portions of the village. In other news, the new Ocracoke Working Watermen's Association appears to be doing well. Look for more news soon about activities planned for December 30.
This month's Ocracoke Newsletter is Jamie Tunnell's story about Dory Fishing on Ocracoke's Beach. Click on the link to read it.
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On the Beach
Yesterday afternoon Amy called to ask me if I wanted to join her and Lachlan at the beach. The weather has been getting milder, so I couldn't resist. The winter beach is such a wonderful place for young children. This time of year there are hardly any "beach buggies" so Lachlan could just run and play with little concern from Mama. He picked up shells as we strolled along, and seemed to understand that the water was too cold for swimming (at least he didn't try to jump in).
Lachlan was equally fascinated by the dunes. He climbed up nearly every path (we were near the campground), and then disappeared over the top. Before long he was back, running down towards us, with sand spurs stuck to his shoes and pants.
All too soon we were ready to head back, but Lachlan kept wandering away. Finally I picked him up and we walked to the car. I'm sure he slept well last night.
This month's Ocracoke Newsletter is Jamie Tunnell's story about Dory Fishing on Ocracoke's Beach. Click on the link to read it.
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Lachlan was equally fascinated by the dunes. He climbed up nearly every path (we were near the campground), and then disappeared over the top. Before long he was back, running down towards us, with sand spurs stuck to his shoes and pants.
All too soon we were ready to head back, but Lachlan kept wandering away. Finally I picked him up and we walked to the car. I'm sure he slept well last night.
This month's Ocracoke Newsletter is Jamie Tunnell's story about Dory Fishing on Ocracoke's Beach. Click on the link to read it.
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Tuesday, December 12, 2006
Dory Fishing
Several weeks ago I posted an entry here about dory fishing on Ocracoke's beach. This is a fascinating local commercial fishing technique. This month the Ocracoke Observer published an article by Jamie Tunnell that explores this topic in more depth. Jamie and Linda Rippe, owner of the Observer, were kind enough to allow me to republish the article on our web site, as our December Ocracoke Newsletter. Linda also sent me several photos that had not been published.
You can read the entire account of Ocracoke's dory fishing by clicking here.
You can read the entire account of Ocracoke's dory fishing by clicking here.
Monday, December 11, 2006
A Busy Week
Most of our readers can probably identify with busy-ness before Christmas. Ocracoke is no exception. This week I'll be part of a family dinner, the Ocracoke Civic & Business Association pot luck, and our annual Village Craftsmen dinner. Of course, there are the other usual holiday activities -- our school Christmas program Thursday evening, ordering and wrapping presents, putting up a yule log, finding a Christmas tree, writing to friends, etc.
Everything considered, life isn't too hectic on the island. I don't have to fight commuter traffic, and there's no mall filled with frantic shoppers. Actually there are hardly any shoppers at all. Mostly it's quiet. I think I'll wrap a few presents as I sit here at the counter!
You can read our latest newsletter here. It's the story of two old maps (1590 & 1795) and place names on the Outer Banks.
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Everything considered, life isn't too hectic on the island. I don't have to fight commuter traffic, and there's no mall filled with frantic shoppers. Actually there are hardly any shoppers at all. Mostly it's quiet. I think I'll wrap a few presents as I sit here at the counter!
You can read our latest newsletter here. It's the story of two old maps (1590 & 1795) and place names on the Outer Banks.
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Sunday, December 10, 2006
Jimmy's Garage & the Space Shuttle
Last night several hundred islanders gathered at Jimmy's Garage for Ocracoke's annual Christmas pig pickin', pot luck dinner, and dance. Jimmy's is the cleanest garage you can imagine. The floor was virtually spotless. Picnic tables were lined up, and tables were piled high with all manner of delicious fare. From 5:00 to 7:30 folks ate, visited, chased after young-uns, laughed, and told stories. The dance commenced at 8:00 and continued long into the night.
A couple of dozen islanders left the party around 8:30 to gather on the walkover ramp at the lifeguard beach. The night was clear and the sky was studded with stars*. In every direction we looked twinkling lights covered the heavens. The Milky Way looked like it had been painted across the dome of the sky with a magical brush.
Shortly after 8:45 the cry was heard. "There it is." Hurtling toward us from the southwest was a bright, shining dot. The space shuttle streaked by, rather low on the horizon, as we all fell silent and watched. It was difficult to imagine that the shuttle was climbing. It looked like it might just barely clear the top of the Cape Hatteras lighthouse. Then, just as quickly as it appeared, it was gone and out of sight.
The night air was cold and crisp. Most of us walked back to our cars, awed both by the canopy of stars overhead and the accomplishment of our fellow humans.
* According to http://answers.google.com/answers/threadview?id=742414 & http://www.cnn.com/2003/TECH/space/07/22/stars.survey/ we could probably see about 2000 stars last night of the 70,000,000,000,000,000,000,000 in the known universe. According to CNN, "Astronomers say there are more stars than grains of sand in all of Earth's deserts and beaches." That's a lot of stars!
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A couple of dozen islanders left the party around 8:30 to gather on the walkover ramp at the lifeguard beach. The night was clear and the sky was studded with stars*. In every direction we looked twinkling lights covered the heavens. The Milky Way looked like it had been painted across the dome of the sky with a magical brush.
Shortly after 8:45 the cry was heard. "There it is." Hurtling toward us from the southwest was a bright, shining dot. The space shuttle streaked by, rather low on the horizon, as we all fell silent and watched. It was difficult to imagine that the shuttle was climbing. It looked like it might just barely clear the top of the Cape Hatteras lighthouse. Then, just as quickly as it appeared, it was gone and out of sight.
The night air was cold and crisp. Most of us walked back to our cars, awed both by the canopy of stars overhead and the accomplishment of our fellow humans.
* According to http://answers.google.com/answers/threadview?id=742414 & http://www.cnn.com/2003/TECH/space/07/22/stars.survey/ we could probably see about 2000 stars last night of the 70,000,000,000,000,000,000,000 in the known universe. According to CNN, "Astronomers say there are more stars than grains of sand in all of Earth's deserts and beaches." That's a lot of stars!
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Saturday, December 09, 2006
Music & Stories
Last night's Christmas concert at Deepwater Theater (not the Community Center, as I wrote yesterday) was sold out. In spite of the cold weather (near freezing temperatures) many locals, and even a handful of visitors, came out to listen to holiday music and hear island stories.
Ocracoke's regulars (Molasses Creek, Marcie & Lou, Jamie Tunnell, Rob & Sundae, Roy Parsons & others) were joined by a growing group of young musicians who entertained with guitar, flute, violin, and voice. Rob read his new "piratical version" of Clement Moore's The Night Before Christmas to much laughter. At the end, song books were passed around and the audience joined with the performers in singing favorite carols.
The short walk home was dark and cold. Deep midwinter is definitely upon us. It was good to walk into my cozy parlor with candles in the windows and a warm fire at the hearth.
You can read our latest newsletter here. It's the story of two old maps (1590 & 1795) and place names on the Outer Banks.
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Ocracoke's regulars (Molasses Creek, Marcie & Lou, Jamie Tunnell, Rob & Sundae, Roy Parsons & others) were joined by a growing group of young musicians who entertained with guitar, flute, violin, and voice. Rob read his new "piratical version" of Clement Moore's The Night Before Christmas to much laughter. At the end, song books were passed around and the audience joined with the performers in singing favorite carols.
The short walk home was dark and cold. Deep midwinter is definitely upon us. It was good to walk into my cozy parlor with candles in the windows and a warm fire at the hearth.
You can read our latest newsletter here. It's the story of two old maps (1590 & 1795) and place names on the Outer Banks.
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Friday, December 08, 2006
Concert Tonight
Because I was off island for two days I missed Ocracoke's annual wassail party and the lighting of the Christmas tree at the Ocracoke Preservation Society museum Wednesday evening. As usual, I'm sure there was a good turnout accompanied by singing of carols to usher in the holidays. It certainly feels like winter right now. Days are getting shorter as the solstice approaches, holiday decorations adorn more and more homes, and the temperature was below freezing this morning.
We are looking forward to our annual Christmas concert at the Community Center this evening. Music, stories, and refreshments will round out the evening's entertainment. I'll be sharing the story of the 1899 Christmas Eve wreck of the British steamship Ariosto.
Be sure to come on out if you are on the island.
You can read our latest newsletter here. It's the story of two old maps (1590 & 1795) and place names on the Outer Banks.
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We are looking forward to our annual Christmas concert at the Community Center this evening. Music, stories, and refreshments will round out the evening's entertainment. I'll be sharing the story of the 1899 Christmas Eve wreck of the British steamship Ariosto.
Be sure to come on out if you are on the island.
You can read our latest newsletter here. It's the story of two old maps (1590 & 1795) and place names on the Outer Banks.
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Thursday, December 07, 2006
Back on the Island Again
Our readers must think we never stay home this time of year. I apologize for the gap in posts yesterday and earlier today. Unfortunately, I was off-island for a funeral. My brother's wife, Elaine, died late last week after a long illness, and I went to be with him. Jude was also off island, so we elected to let the journal go for a day or so.
Before I left I shut off the water to my outside shower. I had heard we might be getting our first real cold snap. According to forecasts, temperatures tonight and tomorrow night might plunge to the freezing point. There is also the possibility of strong winds and soundside flooding. Seems like we've had our fair share of that already this season. But I guess that's just one consequence of living out here on the Outer Banks. Really, we're not complaining. A little adventure can be exciting, and we also reap the benefits of living on this enchanted island.
You can read our latest newsletter here. It's the story of two old maps (1590 & 1795) and place names on the Outer Banks.
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Before I left I shut off the water to my outside shower. I had heard we might be getting our first real cold snap. According to forecasts, temperatures tonight and tomorrow night might plunge to the freezing point. There is also the possibility of strong winds and soundside flooding. Seems like we've had our fair share of that already this season. But I guess that's just one consequence of living out here on the Outer Banks. Really, we're not complaining. A little adventure can be exciting, and we also reap the benefits of living on this enchanted island.
You can read our latest newsletter here. It's the story of two old maps (1590 & 1795) and place names on the Outer Banks.
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Tuesday, December 05, 2006
Sweaters & Hats
Well, it is December, so it shouldn't be surprising that we've got something of a cold snap today. The temperature is in the mid-40s and folks have been sporting sweaters, jackets, and wool hats. Not that many people are out and about. The island is pretty quiet this time of the year. Different houses and businesses are putting up holiday decorations, though. Cindy and Dee just brought Christmas wreaths -- one for the Village Craftsmen and one for my house. They're made of local cedar, with a big red bow. Just what I need to go with the candles in my windows.
You can read our latest newsletter here. It's the story of two old maps (1590 & 1795) and place names on the Outer Banks.
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You can read our latest newsletter here. It's the story of two old maps (1590 & 1795) and place names on the Outer Banks.
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Monday, December 04, 2006
Journal Problems
Just a few words so our readers know what has happened in the last few days. Blogger.com, which hosts our Ocracoke Journal, is "upgrading" to a new Beta version, and we were required to make the change sometime in the next month or so. I decided to go for it last Friday. Everything went smoothly, except that, when I looked on line the Journal page was blank!
I wrote to Blogger tech support, but by today had not heard from them. In the meanwhile I did some sleuthing and decided that the most likely source of the problem was the customized template I had created. My goal was to make the Journal visually consistent with the rest of our web site.
This morning I changed the template to one of Blogger's standard designs. Lo & behold, everything is working again, though with a totally different look.
I hope you enjoy having the journal back, even with a new look. By the way, did you read today's earlier post about the Doritos?
You can read our latest newsletter here. It's the story of two old maps (1590 & 1795) and place names on the Outer Banks.
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I wrote to Blogger tech support, but by today had not heard from them. In the meanwhile I did some sleuthing and decided that the most likely source of the problem was the customized template I had created. My goal was to make the Journal visually consistent with the rest of our web site.
This morning I changed the template to one of Blogger's standard designs. Lo & behold, everything is working again, though with a totally different look.
I hope you enjoy having the journal back, even with a new look. By the way, did you read today's earlier post about the Doritos?
You can read our latest newsletter here. It's the story of two old maps (1590 & 1795) and place names on the Outer Banks.
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Doritos
Like the olden days when a schooner wrecked on the Outer Banks, Hatteras islanders flocked to the beach several days ago, looking for bounty from the sea. But this time they were out there with garbage bags. They weren't scavenging for lumber or coal or other valuable cargo. This time they were collecting Doritos. About 8000 bags of the chips, which had been loaded into a tractor-trailer size container, washed off the deck of a passing freighter a day or so before Thanksgiving.
The big container had been broken open, and then it fetched up on the beach at Hatteras. Shortly thereafter Doritos were strewn along the tide line. I haven't heard of any bags washing up on Ocracoke's beach....at least not yet. We'll keep our eyes open!
You can read our latest newsletter here. It's the story of two old maps (1590 & 1795) and place names on the Outer Banks.
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The big container had been broken open, and then it fetched up on the beach at Hatteras. Shortly thereafter Doritos were strewn along the tide line. I haven't heard of any bags washing up on Ocracoke's beach....at least not yet. We'll keep our eyes open!
You can read our latest newsletter here. It's the story of two old maps (1590 & 1795) and place names on the Outer Banks.
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Friday, December 01, 2006
Warm & Breezy
Hi! This is Philip again, back home to an unseasonably warm December. I guess I missed all of the excitement over Thanksgiving week, but I saw the storm effects as I drove down the Outer Banks -- dunes disturbed and pushed back with bulldozers, sand still on the highway, and even residual standing water in places. Ocracoke seems to have fared well, though I clearly had a bit of tide in my yard. All is quiet now.
While I was gone I noticed that one reader commented on what is perhaps our island's most famous date in history -- November 22. That is the date in 1718 (that's 288 years ago) when Captain Edward Teach (Blackbeard) was killed at Ocracoke Inlet. Recently I've read of research that suggests Blackbeard might have been the son of Captain James Beard, neighbor to colonial Governor Charles Eden in Bath, NC. It was a rather convincing argument. Perhaps I'll share more details in a future monthly newsletter.
While I was gone I noticed that one reader commented on what is perhaps our island's most famous date in history -- November 22. That is the date in 1718 (that's 288 years ago) when Captain Edward Teach (Blackbeard) was killed at Ocracoke Inlet. Recently I've read of research that suggests Blackbeard might have been the son of Captain James Beard, neighbor to colonial Governor Charles Eden in Bath, NC. It was a rather convincing argument. Perhaps I'll share more details in a future monthly newsletter.
Wednesday, November 29, 2006
It Warms Our Hearts....Really!
I really did appreciate the concern shown by folks when they didn't hear from us for a few days. The person who wanted me fired.....that's another matter. You just can't tell who your friends are anymore I swear. To the friend who was here and asked how the storm was in intensity compared to others we have known, it wasn't bad at all. The ocean was roiled enough to breach the dunes up and down the banks which is a concern but the flooding wasn't bad and neither were the winds. It was just enough that put all together it messed up the last profitable week we hoped to have on Ocracoke for about three months. So ya'll come on down and do your Christmas shopping here the next couple of weekends. We offer no crowds, friendly conversation, no traffic, very few muggings last time I checked. The pick pockets have all gone south and the parking meters are real cheap this time of year. Our meter maid is a real looker. Come grab a bit of sunshine and have a few laughs. Celebrate Christmas shopping Ocracoke style. We'll be looking for you. Later.....Jude
You can read our latest newsletter here. It's the story of two old maps (1590 & 1795) and place names on the Outer Banks
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You can read our latest newsletter here. It's the story of two old maps (1590 & 1795) and place names on the Outer Banks
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Tuesday, November 28, 2006
Calm Down!
Sometimes .... folks....things get a bit beyond our control and we just need to calm down. Last week was quite a week for the entire Outer Banks. A Nor'Easter hit us on Monday evening and lasted til Thanksgiving. Rt. 12 was closed at Rodanthe where the ocean washed over trying to make a new inlet again. The dunes on Ocracoke were breached in a numbered of places and 12 was flooded both on Ocracoke and on Hatteras. We had over 7" of rain. The power was off and on, off and on and finally off. They did turn the generator on at Ocracoke but it went off Thanksgiving afternoon so most dinners were delayed. The Hatteras ferry didn't run til late Thursday. My sister, visiting from Maryland, came in on the 4PM Swan Quarter so we had Thanksgiving dinner about 8PM. But all the turkeys and trimmings eventually got cooked and eaten, friends and family got together and the sun came out. Mother Nature spared us from the hurricanes this year but I think she just wanted to remind us that she's still around.Now that everyone has gone the weather is in the 70's and sunny. Go figure. Anyhoo , I was a tad busy and what with mailorders and all I haven't been able to take a breath and that's my story and I'm stickin to it. Hope ya'll had a wonderful Thanksgiving. It's good messin with you again. Jude
You can read our latest newsletter here. It's the story of two old maps (1590 & 1795) and place names on the Outer Banks.
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You can read our latest newsletter here. It's the story of two old maps (1590 & 1795) and place names on the Outer Banks.
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Monday, November 20, 2006
Thanksgiving Week
Greetings from Ocracoke. As for many of our readers, this week should prove to be busy for Ocracokers also. Family and friends will be arriving on the island for Thanksgiving dinners. And visitors will be here for one last walk along the beach before the winter holidays.
I will be visiting Lou Ann for Turkey Day so I have asked Jude to keep up the journal while I am gone. As usual, several off-island friends will be staying in my house, looking after things while I am gone. I'm wondering -- why do they all like to visit while I'm gone??
While I am away Jude will be keeping you up to date on island happenings. Happy Thanksgiving to all of our readers!
You can read our latest newsletter here. It's the story of two old maps (1590 & 1795) and place names on the Outer Banks.
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I will be visiting Lou Ann for Turkey Day so I have asked Jude to keep up the journal while I am gone. As usual, several off-island friends will be staying in my house, looking after things while I am gone. I'm wondering -- why do they all like to visit while I'm gone??
While I am away Jude will be keeping you up to date on island happenings. Happy Thanksgiving to all of our readers!
You can read our latest newsletter here. It's the story of two old maps (1590 & 1795) and place names on the Outer Banks.
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Sunday, November 19, 2006
Community Litter Pickup
Saturday morning Ocracoke School's Beta Club sponsored a community litter pickup. Wind and tide contribute to a certain amount of trash scattered around the island. So do roaming dogs. But people contribute also, of course. Papers and boxes blow out of pickup trucks, bottles and cans fall out of opened car doors, kleenexes drop from pockets. Many times it's accidental. Unfortunately, it happens all too often that careless people throw bottles and bags out of car windows, or leave their trash on the beach, or flick cigarette butts on the ground (yes, this is litter, too).
Many thanks to the Beta Club and all of our island volunteers who helped out on Saturday. And thanks also to all of our readers who act responsibly, put trash in their proper receptacles, and even pick up litter when they walk through the village or stroll along the beach. We appreciate your efforts.
You can read our latest newsletter here. It's the story of two old maps (1590 & 1795) and place names on the Outer Banks.
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Many thanks to the Beta Club and all of our island volunteers who helped out on Saturday. And thanks also to all of our readers who act responsibly, put trash in their proper receptacles, and even pick up litter when they walk through the village or stroll along the beach. We appreciate your efforts.
You can read our latest newsletter here. It's the story of two old maps (1590 & 1795) and place names on the Outer Banks.
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Saturday, November 18, 2006
Flat Cat Cafe
Last night at 7:00 Ocracoke's Youth Center put on a musical variety show for the community. Deepwater Theater was nearly full. The program kicked off with an impressive duet on violin & flute. More violin followed, along with several pieces on keyboard (three by a first grader), some vocals, guitar, more flute, and even dance. Conga drums made their appearance now and then. The audience was appreciative and enthusiastic.
I left a tad early since I host our Friday night poker game at 8:00. When the last game was over shortly after midnight I discovered that I had exactly as much money in my pocket as when I sat down to the table. At least I didn't lose any money.
You can read our latest newsletter here. It's the story of two old maps (1590 & 1795) and place names on the Outer Banks.
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I left a tad early since I host our Friday night poker game at 8:00. When the last game was over shortly after midnight I discovered that I had exactly as much money in my pocket as when I sat down to the table. At least I didn't lose any money.
You can read our latest newsletter here. It's the story of two old maps (1590 & 1795) and place names on the Outer Banks.
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Friday, November 17, 2006
Old Graveyards
A neighbor recently asked me about a grave marker she'd discovered along an island path. We went to take a look. As so often happens on Ocracoke we found a number of old graves. They are just scattered among the oaks, cedars, yaupons, and brambles. To my delight I discovered my great uncle Stanley's grave. I never knew where he had been buried.
I also came across Alexander Garrish & Epherena Fulcher Garrish's graveyard. Alexander was the originator of the old-time saying, "Too damn late....I've done promised Freener." You can read the story of this unique island expression here.
You can read our latest newsletter here. It's the story of two old maps (1590 & 1795) and place names on the Outer Banks.
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I also came across Alexander Garrish & Epherena Fulcher Garrish's graveyard. Alexander was the originator of the old-time saying, "Too damn late....I've done promised Freener." You can read the story of this unique island expression here.
You can read our latest newsletter here. It's the story of two old maps (1590 & 1795) and place names on the Outer Banks.
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Thursday, November 16, 2006
Mid-November??
Can this really be the week before Thanksgiving? It is 73 degrees here this morning. Actually, the weather has been super most of the fall. Yesterday I spent part of the afternoon on the beach -- walking alone, and later playing with Lachlan. He entertained himself with shells, feathers, and piles of sand, then splashed in the water for a while. We had a grand time.
Today a change is in the air. Winds are increasing, and thunderstorms are in the forecast. We're hoping the winds aren't as severe as several days ago (Dale says at least one gust was clocked at over 60 mph). I believe I'll get out my paper & pens, and draw some more this morning.
To see new items we've added to our on-line catalog, please click here: "What's New at Village Craftsmen".
You can read our latest newsletter here. It's the story of two old maps (1590 & 1795) and place names on the Outer Banks.
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Today a change is in the air. Winds are increasing, and thunderstorms are in the forecast. We're hoping the winds aren't as severe as several days ago (Dale says at least one gust was clocked at over 60 mph). I believe I'll get out my paper & pens, and draw some more this morning.
To see new items we've added to our on-line catalog, please click here: "What's New at Village Craftsmen".
You can read our latest newsletter here. It's the story of two old maps (1590 & 1795) and place names on the Outer Banks.
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Wednesday, November 15, 2006
OPS Potluck Dinner
Last night Ocracoke Preservation Society hosted its annual meeting and potluck dinner. I arrived early with my deviled eggs, only to discover that three of the other four people there had also brought deviled eggs! By the time we were ready to eat, however, the selection of dishes was outstanding....and tasty.
This year I was the featured speaker. After the business meeting I offered some insights and stories about preserving Ocraocke's oral traditions. It was especially satisfying to share island tales with locals, and they were a fantastic audience.
I told about squaredancing in the 1950s (and how we'd revived the dance more than a decade ago), I demonstrated a traditional Ocracoke bird trap, I related the story of the woman who was buried alive and was found turned over in her casket, I talked about amusing anecdotes you can learn by studying cemeteries, I shared insights about our island's unique dialect, and I told a short story that illustrated Ocracokers' pithy sense of humor.
In the space of about 30 minutes the audience was, in turn, captivated, amused, creeped out, and intrigued by some of our island's diverse and fascinating history. Best of all, I learned this morning that two of our local children are already building a bird trap.
To see new items we've added to our on-line catalog, please click here: "What's New at Village Craftsmen".
You can read our latest newsletter here. It's the story of two old maps (1590 & 1795) and place names on the Outer Banks.
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This year I was the featured speaker. After the business meeting I offered some insights and stories about preserving Ocraocke's oral traditions. It was especially satisfying to share island tales with locals, and they were a fantastic audience.
I told about squaredancing in the 1950s (and how we'd revived the dance more than a decade ago), I demonstrated a traditional Ocracoke bird trap, I related the story of the woman who was buried alive and was found turned over in her casket, I talked about amusing anecdotes you can learn by studying cemeteries, I shared insights about our island's unique dialect, and I told a short story that illustrated Ocracokers' pithy sense of humor.
In the space of about 30 minutes the audience was, in turn, captivated, amused, creeped out, and intrigued by some of our island's diverse and fascinating history. Best of all, I learned this morning that two of our local children are already building a bird trap.
To see new items we've added to our on-line catalog, please click here: "What's New at Village Craftsmen".
You can read our latest newsletter here. It's the story of two old maps (1590 & 1795) and place names on the Outer Banks.
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Tuesday, November 14, 2006
Crew Accommodations
I was glancing through a book my father purchased for $1.00 in 1939, "The ship's Medicine Chest." In the back of the book, as part of an appendix entitled "Exerpts from Maritime Laws," I read this: "Crew space required on vessels constructed between June 30, 1895, and March 4, 1915. -- (a)....Every place appropriated to the crew of the vessel shall have a space of not less than 72 cubic feet and not less than 12 superficial feet [square feet], measured on the deck or floor of that place, for each seaman or apprentice lodged therein."
Do the math. If you allow six feet to accomodate most men, then the bunk only needs to be two feet wide. Allowing for the thickness of the bunk frame and mattress, (maybe a foot), this leaves about three feet by two feet of space under the bunk to store all of the sailor's belongings; and about a foot and a half between his nose and the deck or bunk above him.
I don't know what the regulations are today, but you can be assured that before 1895, when coastal schooners were a regular sight along the Outer Banks, it was probably the luckiest of common sailors who had 72 square feet of space to call his own.
To see new items we've added to our on-line catalog, please click here: "What's New at Village Craftsmen".
You can read our latest newsletter here. It's the story of two old maps (1590 & 1795) and place names on the Outer Banks.
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Do the math. If you allow six feet to accomodate most men, then the bunk only needs to be two feet wide. Allowing for the thickness of the bunk frame and mattress, (maybe a foot), this leaves about three feet by two feet of space under the bunk to store all of the sailor's belongings; and about a foot and a half between his nose and the deck or bunk above him.
I don't know what the regulations are today, but you can be assured that before 1895, when coastal schooners were a regular sight along the Outer Banks, it was probably the luckiest of common sailors who had 72 square feet of space to call his own.
To see new items we've added to our on-line catalog, please click here: "What's New at Village Craftsmen".
You can read our latest newsletter here. It's the story of two old maps (1590 & 1795) and place names on the Outer Banks.
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Monday, November 13, 2006
Fish
Many of our readers may have already figured this out....but I am not a fisherman. Not infrequently I think about this. Here I live on an island with superb fishing. I really ought to learn more about fishing. I have most of the equipment. It's just been so long since I've thrown a line out into the water. Maybe when I retire.
In the meanwhile I am the beneficiary of other folks' expertise at commercial & pleasure fishing. Saturday afternoon the newly created Working Watermen's Association sponsored a fund-raising fish fry. It was yummy. And it helped preserve the island's last remaining fish house. Many thanks to all the folks who are helping to make this effort succeed.
Then yesterday Amy & I sat down to a tasty dinner of speckled trout. My friend, Al, an avid angler, left two sizeable fillets in my refrigerator. Thanks Al! I still think I'll try my hand at fishing again. Maybe when I retire.
To see new items we've added to our on-line catalog, please click here: "What's New at Village Craftsmen".
You can read our latest newsletter here. It's the story of two old maps (1590 & 1795) and place names on the Outer Banks.
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In the meanwhile I am the beneficiary of other folks' expertise at commercial & pleasure fishing. Saturday afternoon the newly created Working Watermen's Association sponsored a fund-raising fish fry. It was yummy. And it helped preserve the island's last remaining fish house. Many thanks to all the folks who are helping to make this effort succeed.
Then yesterday Amy & I sat down to a tasty dinner of speckled trout. My friend, Al, an avid angler, left two sizeable fillets in my refrigerator. Thanks Al! I still think I'll try my hand at fishing again. Maybe when I retire.
To see new items we've added to our on-line catalog, please click here: "What's New at Village Craftsmen".
You can read our latest newsletter here. It's the story of two old maps (1590 & 1795) and place names on the Outer Banks.
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Sunday, November 12, 2006
A Night to Cozy up to the Fire
Wind and rain today. Actually, mostly wind. Trees are bending, porch swings are swaying, screen doors are banging. Gusts as high as 45 mph, maybe higher, have whipped up the ocean and sound. Even the ferries quit running for a good part of today. I'm told the tide has been flooding Highway 12 on Hatteras. By now it may be over the road on Ocracoke, but I haven't heard.
It was the perfect day to stay indoors. I spent the entire afternoon making pen & ink sketches for Audrey Penn's new book, due out this spring. It will be a sequel to her last book "Mystery at Blackbeard's Cove."
So I suppose I'll walk back home and sit down to do some more drawings. I can't think of a better kind of evening to foster creativity.
To see new items we've added to our on-line catalog, please click here: "What's New at Village Craftsmen".
You can read our latest newsletter here. It's the story of two old maps (1590 & 1795) and place names on the Outer Banks.
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It was the perfect day to stay indoors. I spent the entire afternoon making pen & ink sketches for Audrey Penn's new book, due out this spring. It will be a sequel to her last book "Mystery at Blackbeard's Cove."
So I suppose I'll walk back home and sit down to do some more drawings. I can't think of a better kind of evening to foster creativity.
To see new items we've added to our on-line catalog, please click here: "What's New at Village Craftsmen".
You can read our latest newsletter here. It's the story of two old maps (1590 & 1795) and place names on the Outer Banks.
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Saturday, November 11, 2006
John Lovick
On this date in 1719....that's almost three hundred years ago....the Lords Proprietors of Carolina granted Ocracoke Island to John Lovick. According to William S. Powell in "The Proprietors of Carolina" Carolina was "roughly from the present-day Georgia-Florida boundary northward to the middle of Albemarle Sound and from the Atlantic westward to the 'South Seas,' some vague place in the west not then fully understood."
Blackbeard had been captured and killed slightly less than a year before the grant was made. Lovick, a Welsh Quaker, used the island only for grazing livestock. It was not until some years later that pilots began to settle in the area known today as Springer's Point. The rest, as they say, is history.
To see new items we've added to our on-line catalog, please click here: "What's New at Village Craftsmen".
You can read our latest newsletter here. It's the story of two old maps (1590 & 1795) and place names on the Outer Banks.
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Blackbeard had been captured and killed slightly less than a year before the grant was made. Lovick, a Welsh Quaker, used the island only for grazing livestock. It was not until some years later that pilots began to settle in the area known today as Springer's Point. The rest, as they say, is history.
To see new items we've added to our on-line catalog, please click here: "What's New at Village Craftsmen".
You can read our latest newsletter here. It's the story of two old maps (1590 & 1795) and place names on the Outer Banks.
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Friday, November 10, 2006
What Do You Do All Winter?
This journal entry is not about Ocracoke at all -- except that I live here, and I want to share something that I read this morning. There is a fascinating little book that just came out this year entitled "What We Believe But Cannot Prove." It is subtitled, "Science in the Age of Centainty" and is edited by John Brockman. Over 100 people, including scientists, philosophers, and medical doctors, contributed short essays based on the idea in the book's title.
Susan Blackmore, in four paragraphs (page 40 of the paperback edition), reflects on the notion of free will. She claims to have systematically altered her thinking to do away with the feeling of acting with free will, which she apparently believes is an illusion.
She ends her essay with "I just keep on seeming to exist. But though I cannot prove it, I think it is true that I don't." What would Descartes have had to say about that?
On second thought I suppose this journal entry really is about Ocracoke. It is the off-season, and I guess there's not too much to do around here right now.
To see new items we've added to our on-line catalog, please click here: "What's New at Village Craftsmen".
You can read our latest newsletter here. It's the story of two old maps (1590 & 1795) and place names on the Outer Banks.
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Susan Blackmore, in four paragraphs (page 40 of the paperback edition), reflects on the notion of free will. She claims to have systematically altered her thinking to do away with the feeling of acting with free will, which she apparently believes is an illusion.
She ends her essay with "I just keep on seeming to exist. But though I cannot prove it, I think it is true that I don't." What would Descartes have had to say about that?
On second thought I suppose this journal entry really is about Ocracoke. It is the off-season, and I guess there's not too much to do around here right now.
To see new items we've added to our on-line catalog, please click here: "What's New at Village Craftsmen".
You can read our latest newsletter here. It's the story of two old maps (1590 & 1795) and place names on the Outer Banks.
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Thursday, November 09, 2006
Chocolate Cake
Both Jude & Dale, along with two other islanders, Lisa & Pat, serve as Ocracoke's precinct workers. On Tuesday they were checking in voters at the Community Center when talk turned to cake. Dale allowed as how Kay Riddick, who happened to be present, made the island's "best chocolate cake."
Lo and behold, later that afternoon Kay walked in with a package for the workers, laid it on their table, and walked out. Dale opened it and exclaimed, "Kay's brought us each a piece of her chocolate cake." He passed the slices down the table.
Jude looked at her cake. "Dale, this isn't chocolate cake. It's yellow cake with chocolate icing."
"That's chocolate cake," Dale shot back. In the ensuing "discussion" (Jude describes it a s "lively discussion") Jude learned that on the island "chocolate cake" means that the cake has chocolate icing, not that the cake proper is chocolate. Now I know that non-natives can't rightly understand this. And understandably so.
Greatly outnumbered, Jude finally conceded. But then she demanded to know what islanders call a "dark brown cake with cocoa in the batter and chocolate icing." She betrays a smirk when she explains that the native islanders never provided an answer to that one. Come to think of it, I don't know the answer either. Maybe it's illegal to bake that kind of cake on the island!
I'm wondering, do any of our island readers know the answer to the question. And....do any of our other readers call a yellow cake with chocolate icing a "chocolate cake," or is this just an "island thing." We're waiting to hear from y'all.
To see new items we've added to our on-line catalog, please click here: "What's New at Village Craftsmen".
You can read our latest newsletter here. It's the story of two old maps (1590 & 1795) and place names on the Outer Banks.
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Lo and behold, later that afternoon Kay walked in with a package for the workers, laid it on their table, and walked out. Dale opened it and exclaimed, "Kay's brought us each a piece of her chocolate cake." He passed the slices down the table.
Jude looked at her cake. "Dale, this isn't chocolate cake. It's yellow cake with chocolate icing."
"That's chocolate cake," Dale shot back. In the ensuing "discussion" (Jude describes it a s "lively discussion") Jude learned that on the island "chocolate cake" means that the cake has chocolate icing, not that the cake proper is chocolate. Now I know that non-natives can't rightly understand this. And understandably so.
Greatly outnumbered, Jude finally conceded. But then she demanded to know what islanders call a "dark brown cake with cocoa in the batter and chocolate icing." She betrays a smirk when she explains that the native islanders never provided an answer to that one. Come to think of it, I don't know the answer either. Maybe it's illegal to bake that kind of cake on the island!
I'm wondering, do any of our island readers know the answer to the question. And....do any of our other readers call a yellow cake with chocolate icing a "chocolate cake," or is this just an "island thing." We're waiting to hear from y'all.
To see new items we've added to our on-line catalog, please click here: "What's New at Village Craftsmen".
You can read our latest newsletter here. It's the story of two old maps (1590 & 1795) and place names on the Outer Banks.
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Wednesday, November 08, 2006
Springer's
This morning Amy, David, Lachlan, Claudia, & I walked down to Springer's Point. Actually we slogged down to the Point. Last night's rain left puddles deep & wide. Remove our shoes, or just wade through shod? We did both. Lachlan, of course, ran, jumped, climbed, and fell as we made our way along the path and onto the Sound shore.
It was warm (about 70 degrees) and the sun glittered off the water. Lachlan was ready to "go swimming" but we distracted him with grasses, shrubs, shells, lichens, branches, hills, & seaweeds. I was reminded of an article Lou Ann read several months ago. Americans all too often, the author lamented, move from one paved surface (a garage floor), to another (a driveway), to another (a parking lot), to another (concrete steps into a building), without ever putting their feet (even if shod) down on real, solid earth.
We had no reason to be concerned about Lachlan. He pushed through head-high grasses, stumbled over dead sticks and prickly vines, tumbled down inclines, reached into puddles for soggy "treasures," and climbed up onto low slung trees. He was a mess when we got back home, but he had a great adventure.
To see new items we've added to our on-line catalog, please click here: "What's New at Village Craftsmen".
You can read our latest newsletter here. It's the story of two old maps (1590 & 1795) and place names on the Outer Banks.
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It was warm (about 70 degrees) and the sun glittered off the water. Lachlan was ready to "go swimming" but we distracted him with grasses, shrubs, shells, lichens, branches, hills, & seaweeds. I was reminded of an article Lou Ann read several months ago. Americans all too often, the author lamented, move from one paved surface (a garage floor), to another (a driveway), to another (a parking lot), to another (concrete steps into a building), without ever putting their feet (even if shod) down on real, solid earth.
We had no reason to be concerned about Lachlan. He pushed through head-high grasses, stumbled over dead sticks and prickly vines, tumbled down inclines, reached into puddles for soggy "treasures," and climbed up onto low slung trees. He was a mess when we got back home, but he had a great adventure.
To see new items we've added to our on-line catalog, please click here: "What's New at Village Craftsmen".
You can read our latest newsletter here. It's the story of two old maps (1590 & 1795) and place names on the Outer Banks.
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Tuesday, November 07, 2006
Election Day
It is already in the mid-70s this morning! Rain is in the forecast, but we are hoping for a large turnout for today's elections. Although Ocracokers have a long history as renegades and independent thinkers they value their democratic right to vote.
Because he had no horse, and his friends wouldn't take him, one of my ancestors (with unpopular political views) walked from Hatteras Inlet to the village to cast his ballot in the 1800s. I'm sure you won't be saddled with a similar burden, so be sure to go to the polls today and let your vote be counted.
To see new items we've added to our on-line catalog, please click here: "What's New at Village Craftsmen".
You can read our latest newsletter here. It's the story of two old maps (1590 & 1795) and place names on the Outer Banks.
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Because he had no horse, and his friends wouldn't take him, one of my ancestors (with unpopular political views) walked from Hatteras Inlet to the village to cast his ballot in the 1800s. I'm sure you won't be saddled with a similar burden, so be sure to go to the polls today and let your vote be counted.
To see new items we've added to our on-line catalog, please click here: "What's New at Village Craftsmen".
You can read our latest newsletter here. It's the story of two old maps (1590 & 1795) and place names on the Outer Banks.
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Monday, November 06, 2006
International Week
Almost twenty years ago my daughter, Amy, spent a year as a high school exchange student in Berlin. She had a wonderful experience, and a wonderful host family -- Lisa & Wolfgang, and their three children, Matthias, Tatyanna, & Claudia.
Claudia is here for a visit this week. We all gathered at my home last night for dinner. Amy & David brought shrimp (was it delicious!!).....and homemade apple pie. We also had mashed potatoes, green beans, peas, and homemade bread. It was a mouth-watering island meal, and Claudia savored it as did we. (Claudia spent a year as an exchange student in Virginia, and understands American cuisine. She also speaks English fluently.)
Amy & I have taught Lachlan a bit of German, but Claudia is taking our instructions up a level. Lachlan can already count to five "auf Deutsch," and readily says "Tschuss," "Ich liebe dich," and several other phrases. I'm looking forward to hearing what he can say by the end of the week.
To see new items we've added to our on-line catalog, please click here: "What's New at Village Craftsmen".
You can read our latest newsletter here. It's the story of two old maps (1590 & 1795) and place names on the Outer Banks.
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Claudia is here for a visit this week. We all gathered at my home last night for dinner. Amy & David brought shrimp (was it delicious!!).....and homemade apple pie. We also had mashed potatoes, green beans, peas, and homemade bread. It was a mouth-watering island meal, and Claudia savored it as did we. (Claudia spent a year as an exchange student in Virginia, and understands American cuisine. She also speaks English fluently.)
Amy & I have taught Lachlan a bit of German, but Claudia is taking our instructions up a level. Lachlan can already count to five "auf Deutsch," and readily says "Tschuss," "Ich liebe dich," and several other phrases. I'm looking forward to hearing what he can say by the end of the week.
To see new items we've added to our on-line catalog, please click here: "What's New at Village Craftsmen".
You can read our latest newsletter here. It's the story of two old maps (1590 & 1795) and place names on the Outer Banks.
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Sunday, November 05, 2006
Geocaching
Former island resident, Warner Passanisi, recently posted this message:
"Hi Pip [Warner calls me Pip] and Friends,
I wonder if any of you have got involved in the new craze that is sweeping the nation, the world, and yes, even Howard Street - geocaching. Well I just found a few caches on the island, with one just down the road from the Village Craftsmen ([to find info on this one] just do a search on geocaching.com for GCQ39V.) Pip, this would seem to be right up your alley - literally. I can see you on your walking tour, GPSs at the ready!
Anyway, I would suggest small shells and other natural finds on the island to be the perfect caches. So to all those who search, and to all who bury new caches I leave you with ... RESPECT THE NATURAL ENVIRONMENT, and private property, and on Ocracoke, abide by the National Seashore laws.
Happy hunting,
Warner Passanisi"
Katie and John from the Cove B & B (on Loop Road) first introduced me to geocaching. A number of folks have wandered by searching for the small cache Katie & John have hidden on Howard Street. I haven't "gotten into it" but those who do seem to enjoy the challenge. And the Howard Street search includes a brief recounting of the funny story I tell about the island's first automobile accident. Enjoy!
To see new items we've added to our on-line catalog, please click here: "What's New at Village Craftsmen".
You can read our latest newsletter here. It's the story of two old maps (1590 & 1795) and place names on the Outer Banks.
"Hi Pip [Warner calls me Pip] and Friends,
I wonder if any of you have got involved in the new craze that is sweeping the nation, the world, and yes, even Howard Street - geocaching. Well I just found a few caches on the island, with one just down the road from the Village Craftsmen ([to find info on this one] just do a search on geocaching.com for GCQ39V.) Pip, this would seem to be right up your alley - literally. I can see you on your walking tour, GPSs at the ready!
Anyway, I would suggest small shells and other natural finds on the island to be the perfect caches. So to all those who search, and to all who bury new caches I leave you with ... RESPECT THE NATURAL ENVIRONMENT, and private property, and on Ocracoke, abide by the National Seashore laws.
Happy hunting,
Warner Passanisi"
Katie and John from the Cove B & B (on Loop Road) first introduced me to geocaching. A number of folks have wandered by searching for the small cache Katie & John have hidden on Howard Street. I haven't "gotten into it" but those who do seem to enjoy the challenge. And the Howard Street search includes a brief recounting of the funny story I tell about the island's first automobile accident. Enjoy!
To see new items we've added to our on-line catalog, please click here: "What's New at Village Craftsmen".
You can read our latest newsletter here. It's the story of two old maps (1590 & 1795) and place names on the Outer Banks.
Saturday, November 04, 2006
Community Store Update
A number of readers have asked about the Community Store, and wondered when it will reopen. Rob & Sundae have encountered some unexpected problems. They have posted the following message on the Post Office bulletin board. I thought our readers would be interested in being kept up to date.
"So why hasn't the Community Store opened yet?
We share your disappointment that the Community Store is closed, and we're sorry for the inconvenience. We've run into some problems in getting the store up and running, and to dispel rumors we'd like everyone to have the same information:
We'll keep you posted.
Sundae and Rob
October 31, 2006"
To see new items we've added to our on-line catalog, please click here: "What's New at Village Craftsmen".
You can read our newsletter here. It is a story of Maps, Outer Banks place names, and geology.
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"So why hasn't the Community Store opened yet?
We share your disappointment that the Community Store is closed, and we're sorry for the inconvenience. We've run into some problems in getting the store up and running, and to dispel rumors we'd like everyone to have the same information:
- Nash-Finch, the grocery wholesaler that delivers to the Variety Store and used to deliver to the Community Store, has told us that they WILL NOT deliver to the Community Store again. It isn't "profitable" for them.
- We really hoped we could order from SuperValu/Richfood (they supply Conner's in Buxton and Village Grocery in Avon), but they WILL NOT bring a truck to Ocracoke.
- We've considered lots of other options including buying a truck and getting the groceries ourselves, but none of those ideas are workable.
We'll keep you posted.
Sundae and Rob
October 31, 2006"
To see new items we've added to our on-line catalog, please click here: "What's New at Village Craftsmen".
You can read our newsletter here. It is a story of Maps, Outer Banks place names, and geology.
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Friday, November 03, 2006
Old Maps
Yesterday I uploaded our latest Ocracoke Newsletter. This month I discuss some of the names of Outer Banks islands and the geology that helped form them. I have reproduced two old maps, one made in 1590, the other made in 1795. It was fun doing the sleuthing.
You can read our newsletter here.
To see new items we've added to our on-line catalog, please click here: "What's New at Village Craftsmen".
You can read our newsletter here.
To see new items we've added to our on-line catalog, please click here: "What's New at Village Craftsmen".
Thursday, November 02, 2006
Life-Savers
Several days ago we had this comment on our journal:
"Your ongoing references to long-lost ships (18XX) made me wonder whether cutting-edge navigational equipment has rendered sailing off the Outer Banks mere child's play. Are the days of foundering ships and foraging for washed up cargo a thing of the past?"
First, a few words about why I so frequently comment on Ocracoke shipwrecks. It has been many a year since a sailing vessel fetched up on Ocracoke's beach. However, from as early as 1585 through the first part of the twentieth century numerous schooners and other ships, along with their captains, crews, passengers, & cargo, have been cast upon our beaches. Many people lie buried in unmarked graves near where they died.
From 1883, when the first US Life Saving Station was established at Hatteras Inlet, to the present day, untold numbers of native islanders and others assigned to patrol our beaches have risked their lives to save unfortunate mariners. In the most severe weather, with gale force winds raging, tides rising to their thighs, and temperatures frigid and numbing, men of the Life Saving Service trudged miles along our coast, pulling heavily laden "beach carts" loaded down with life saving equipment.
Once they reached a stranded vessel they would frequently work for hours rigging the apparatus, firing lines to the hapless crew, and then hauling them to safety. At other times they would row through raging surf in fragile boats and pluck sailors from precarious perches on sinking ships. Sometimes they would risk their lives to plunge directly into the sea and carry wreck victims to shore one by one. As the regulations stated, surfmen were required to go out and attempt the rescue. Nothing said they had to come back.
But mostly they did. And usually all lives were saved, even if the ships were a total loss. Not infrequently, shipwreck reports note with understatement that the beach cart and apparatus were left at the scene, as the life savers were "worn out."
I believe we do well to remember the many brave and courageous Outer Bankers who put their lives at risk to save untold numbers of people they had never met.
Today, of course, accurate charts, radar, sonar, and GPS complement more traditional means of navigation (dead reckoning, spyglasses, sextants, and lighthouses) to help insure safer passage along North Carolina's treacherous Outer Banks. I wouldn't say that sailing off shore is mere child's play, but it is definitely much safer than in days gone by.
To see new items we've added to our on-line catalog, please click here: "What's New at Village Craftsmen".
You can read our latest newsletter here. It's the story of the Community Store and other general stores on the island.
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"Your ongoing references to long-lost ships (18XX) made me wonder whether cutting-edge navigational equipment has rendered sailing off the Outer Banks mere child's play. Are the days of foundering ships and foraging for washed up cargo a thing of the past?"
First, a few words about why I so frequently comment on Ocracoke shipwrecks. It has been many a year since a sailing vessel fetched up on Ocracoke's beach. However, from as early as 1585 through the first part of the twentieth century numerous schooners and other ships, along with their captains, crews, passengers, & cargo, have been cast upon our beaches. Many people lie buried in unmarked graves near where they died.
From 1883, when the first US Life Saving Station was established at Hatteras Inlet, to the present day, untold numbers of native islanders and others assigned to patrol our beaches have risked their lives to save unfortunate mariners. In the most severe weather, with gale force winds raging, tides rising to their thighs, and temperatures frigid and numbing, men of the Life Saving Service trudged miles along our coast, pulling heavily laden "beach carts" loaded down with life saving equipment.
Once they reached a stranded vessel they would frequently work for hours rigging the apparatus, firing lines to the hapless crew, and then hauling them to safety. At other times they would row through raging surf in fragile boats and pluck sailors from precarious perches on sinking ships. Sometimes they would risk their lives to plunge directly into the sea and carry wreck victims to shore one by one. As the regulations stated, surfmen were required to go out and attempt the rescue. Nothing said they had to come back.
But mostly they did. And usually all lives were saved, even if the ships were a total loss. Not infrequently, shipwreck reports note with understatement that the beach cart and apparatus were left at the scene, as the life savers were "worn out."
I believe we do well to remember the many brave and courageous Outer Bankers who put their lives at risk to save untold numbers of people they had never met.
Today, of course, accurate charts, radar, sonar, and GPS complement more traditional means of navigation (dead reckoning, spyglasses, sextants, and lighthouses) to help insure safer passage along North Carolina's treacherous Outer Banks. I wouldn't say that sailing off shore is mere child's play, but it is definitely much safer than in days gone by.
To see new items we've added to our on-line catalog, please click here: "What's New at Village Craftsmen".
You can read our latest newsletter here. It's the story of the Community Store and other general stores on the island.
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Wednesday, November 01, 2006
Ocracoke Business for Sale
It is Wednesday (well, actually, I am writing this on Tuesday evening -- I will be off island on Wednesday for another dental appointment). So I don't have any up-to-date news. However, an island friend told me that he and his wife have their Ocracoke business for sale. I know that many of our off-island readers fantasize about moving to the island and managing a small business. So, for their benefit, I am including a link to the business for sale: http://www.ocracokerestoration.com/
If you are interested, please contact Tom or Carol directly. Their email address is posted on their web site.
To see new items we've added to our on-line catalog, please click here: "What's New at Village Craftsmen".
You can read our latest newsletter here. It's the story of the Community Store and other general stores on the island.
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If you are interested, please contact Tom or Carol directly. Their email address is posted on their web site.
To see new items we've added to our on-line catalog, please click here: "What's New at Village Craftsmen".
You can read our latest newsletter here. It's the story of the Community Store and other general stores on the island.
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Tuesday, October 31, 2006
A Dory & Nets
David, Lachlan, & I took my Subaru out to the beach yesterday afternoon. I don't ever actually drive it on the beach (I like to keep it away from salt water), but I had just had Matt Tolson spray the underside with burnt motor oil and linseed oil (this is many islanders' preferred method of undercoating). I didn't actually drive it on the beach, just down the path, through the soft sand, at ramp 67 -- enough to coat the oil with a layer of sand so it forms a crust.
But we did walk out to the ocean of course. While we were there three commercial fishermen came by and launched their dory into the surf. A dory is a fishing boat with a narrow, flat bottom, high bow, and high, flared sides. They pushed the dory into the waves and two of them jumped in and lowered the motor. After starting the motor they crashed through the surf and started paying out their net (one end was securely anchored up on the beach). Once beyond the breakers they turned north and circled around. After little more than five minutes they had surfed the boat back onto the beach and almost immediately began hauling the net back.
They netted quite a few fish -- mullet, channel bass, speckled trout, among others -- as well as a couple of skates and even a puffer fish. They had been careful to avoid the several pods of dolphin that we'd seen just beyond the outer breakers.
Lachlan enjoyed the show, and especially touching the many fish brought into shore. Who knows, maybe he'll decide to be a commercial fisherman some day.
I didn't have a camera with me, and have been unable to find a photo of an Outer Banks dory on the web, but I did find a picture of a similar, New England dory. Click here to see the photo.
To see new items we've added to our on-line catalog, please click here: "What's New at Village Craftsmen".
You can read our latest newsletter here. It's the story of the Community Store and other general stores on the island.
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But we did walk out to the ocean of course. While we were there three commercial fishermen came by and launched their dory into the surf. A dory is a fishing boat with a narrow, flat bottom, high bow, and high, flared sides. They pushed the dory into the waves and two of them jumped in and lowered the motor. After starting the motor they crashed through the surf and started paying out their net (one end was securely anchored up on the beach). Once beyond the breakers they turned north and circled around. After little more than five minutes they had surfed the boat back onto the beach and almost immediately began hauling the net back.
They netted quite a few fish -- mullet, channel bass, speckled trout, among others -- as well as a couple of skates and even a puffer fish. They had been careful to avoid the several pods of dolphin that we'd seen just beyond the outer breakers.
Lachlan enjoyed the show, and especially touching the many fish brought into shore. Who knows, maybe he'll decide to be a commercial fisherman some day.
I didn't have a camera with me, and have been unable to find a photo of an Outer Banks dory on the web, but I did find a picture of a similar, New England dory. Click here to see the photo.
To see new items we've added to our on-line catalog, please click here: "What's New at Village Craftsmen".
You can read our latest newsletter here. It's the story of the Community Store and other general stores on the island.
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Monday, October 30, 2006
A Precursor to Halloween
Last night a warm wind was rustling the hundred-year-old oaks in the graveyards, a few scattered clouds scudded across the bright half moon, and dark shadows danced on marble tombstones. It was the perfect night for a ghost walk.
Danielle from Raleigh and a handful of her family and friends joined me for a special Sunday night tour. They listened intently to tales of the walking dead, of strange footsteps in empty bedrooms, of dozens of drowned seamen buried in unmarked graves on the beach, of phantom freighters, and wandering ghosts of long-dead sailors and mad old women.
It was the perfect night for a ghost walk. I believe they stayed close together as they made their way down the sandy lane back to their car.
To see new items we've added to our on-line catalog, please click here: "What's New at Village Craftsmen".
You can read our latest newsletter here. It's the story of the Community Store and other general stores on the island.
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Danielle from Raleigh and a handful of her family and friends joined me for a special Sunday night tour. They listened intently to tales of the walking dead, of strange footsteps in empty bedrooms, of dozens of drowned seamen buried in unmarked graves on the beach, of phantom freighters, and wandering ghosts of long-dead sailors and mad old women.
It was the perfect night for a ghost walk. I believe they stayed close together as they made their way down the sandy lane back to their car.
To see new items we've added to our on-line catalog, please click here: "What's New at Village Craftsmen".
You can read our latest newsletter here. It's the story of the Community Store and other general stores on the island.
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Saturday, October 28, 2006
Spook Walk & Wind Gusts
Friday night from 7:00 - 8:30 several dozen islanders put together our annual Howard Street Spook Walk, a benefit for our school. This year's event highlighted a number of traditional Ocracoke ghost and creepy stories. The island's most famous former resident was there, of course. And without his head! So, too, were the survivors of the wreck of the steamboat "Home" (that was in 1837), and the woman who turned over in her casket (and scratched out the lining, and pulled out her hair). Don't think about that when you go to bed tonight!
Several folks reenacted the scene of Ocracoke's first murder (also in 1837), and the death of Mrs. Godfrey (whose ghost is reported to still wander the upper floors of the Island Inn). Fannie Pearl was there in her white coffin, as were other assorted ghosts, goblins, and scary clowns.
Fortunately the rain held off until the very last few minutes of the Spook Walk. The forecast had been calling for rain and wind gusts of over 50 mph. When I awoke Saturday morning there were puddles everywhere and there was a mild breeze. If the wind was strong and blustery during the night I knew nothing of it. I slept soundly and blissfully in spite of all the specters and ghouls.
To see new items we've added to our on-line catalog, please click here: "What's New at Village Craftsmen".
You can read our latest newsletter here. It's the story of the Community Store and other general stores on the island.
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Several folks reenacted the scene of Ocracoke's first murder (also in 1837), and the death of Mrs. Godfrey (whose ghost is reported to still wander the upper floors of the Island Inn). Fannie Pearl was there in her white coffin, as were other assorted ghosts, goblins, and scary clowns.
Fortunately the rain held off until the very last few minutes of the Spook Walk. The forecast had been calling for rain and wind gusts of over 50 mph. When I awoke Saturday morning there were puddles everywhere and there was a mild breeze. If the wind was strong and blustery during the night I knew nothing of it. I slept soundly and blissfully in spite of all the specters and ghouls.
To see new items we've added to our on-line catalog, please click here: "What's New at Village Craftsmen".
You can read our latest newsletter here. It's the story of the Community Store and other general stores on the island.
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Friday, October 27, 2006
Reader Photos
A couple of days ago one of our readers, Wesley Furr, sent me several photos he took on a recent trip to Ocracoke. He graciously agreed to let me add them to our daily journal. If you are an off-island reader of our journal I hope these pictures bring back good memories.
This first photo is looking down Howard Street from the end nearest NC Highway 12.
This one is taken on Lawton Lane, near Howard Street, looking towards NC Highway 12.
To see new items we've added to our on-line catalog, please click here: "What's New at Village Craftsmen".
You can read our latest newsletter here. It's the story of the Community Store and other general stores on the island.
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This first photo is looking down Howard Street from the end nearest NC Highway 12.
This one is taken on Lawton Lane, near Howard Street, looking towards NC Highway 12.
To see new items we've added to our on-line catalog, please click here: "What's New at Village Craftsmen".
You can read our latest newsletter here. It's the story of the Community Store and other general stores on the island.
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Thursday, October 26, 2006
A Fine Fall Day
Autumn does not grace this island with color. No yellow ochres, or scarlets, or rusty oranges. Just the greens (forest green, blue green, and yellow-green of live oaks, cedars, and yaupons) year 'round. However, we don't have the stark grey barren limbs of winter either. But the days are growing shorter; the air is cooler; and the streets are quieter. Fall has definitely arrived on the Outer Banks.
And one historical note: On this day in 1859 the schooner "Mary" wrecked on Ocracoke's beach.
To see new items we've added to our on-line catalog, please click here: "What's New at Village Craftsmen".
You can read our latest newsletter here. It's the story of the Community Store and other general stores on the island.
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And one historical note: On this day in 1859 the schooner "Mary" wrecked on Ocracoke's beach.
To see new items we've added to our on-line catalog, please click here: "What's New at Village Craftsmen".
You can read our latest newsletter here. It's the story of the Community Store and other general stores on the island.
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Wednesday, October 25, 2006
New Items
The press of summer business, family responsibilities, & off-island trips with Lou Ann have left me with a number of revisions to our web site and new items to add to our on-line catalog. In the last several days I have uploaded quite a few new items (framed mini-prints, doorbell surrounds, several kinds of pottery, kitchen items, and jewelry boxes).
We will be adding even more new merchandise in the coming weeks. Be sure to check out our "What's New Page"regularly as the holiday season approaches. As you know, we carry all American-made hand-crafts of the finest quality. We ship year-round and keep most items in stock ready for Christmas, birthdays, weddings, and other special occasions.
You can read our latest newsletter here. It's the story of the Community Store and other general stores on the island.
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We will be adding even more new merchandise in the coming weeks. Be sure to check out our "What's New Page"regularly as the holiday season approaches. As you know, we carry all American-made hand-crafts of the finest quality. We ship year-round and keep most items in stock ready for Christmas, birthdays, weddings, and other special occasions.
You can read our latest newsletter here. It's the story of the Community Store and other general stores on the island.
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Tuesday, October 24, 2006
Lawton's
Several of our long-time readers have rented my mother & father's former home ("Lawton's") on Howard Street the last few summers. Some just learned that this cottage will no longer be a summer rental. One person commented, "I just found out that you will not be renting Lawton's next year. What a shame. It is truly a home away from home."
I really appreciate the positive comments, and am happy so many people enjoyed staying there. We always liked having pleasant and interesting neighbors throughout the summer. I hope it is some consolation to our former renters to know that my daughter and her family will be moving into the house at the end of this year. Soon Amy, David, & Lachlan will be my next door neighbors; and the house will once again echo with the laughter of Lawton & Connie's grandchildren and great-grandchildren.
Many thanks to all of our loyal renters.
You can read our latest newsletter here. It's the story of the Community Store and other general stores on the island.
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I really appreciate the positive comments, and am happy so many people enjoyed staying there. We always liked having pleasant and interesting neighbors throughout the summer. I hope it is some consolation to our former renters to know that my daughter and her family will be moving into the house at the end of this year. Soon Amy, David, & Lachlan will be my next door neighbors; and the house will once again echo with the laughter of Lawton & Connie's grandchildren and great-grandchildren.
Many thanks to all of our loyal renters.
You can read our latest newsletter here. It's the story of the Community Store and other general stores on the island.
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Monday, October 23, 2006
Finally Fall
I awoke this morning to a screen door banging, and rocking chairs thumping against the house. The cedars and oaks were swaying outside my window. After weeks and weeks of near perfect weather a cold wind from the north has moved into the village. Temperatures in the low 40s and a 25 mph wind made for a bracing outdoor shower this morning. (Jude wants you all to know that she enjoyed an outdoor shower this morning too -- and we both want you to know that she was at her house, and I at mine!)
But the sky is clear and blue, and sunlight rests gently on fences and yaupons this morning. It was time for a change of season.
You can read our latest newsletter here. It's the story of the Community Store and other general stores on the island.
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But the sky is clear and blue, and sunlight rests gently on fences and yaupons this morning. It was time for a change of season.
You can read our latest newsletter here. It's the story of the Community Store and other general stores on the island.
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Sunday, October 22, 2006
A Quiet Sunday Afternoon
It is still warm here -- in the upper 60s -- though a light rain has begun to fall. Hardly anyone is milling about. Amy, Lachlan, and I spent some time at the beach earlier. Mostly just a few fishermen out there....and a couple of folks sitting and reading. We didn't go in the water. It was a bit rougher today than the last several days. But we sat up by the dunes and played and talked for almost two hours.
After lunch I finished a few household chores....and then made deviled eggs. This evening I'll be going to an "October Birthday Party." It will be a potluck dinner, and I know folks will be looking for the deviled eggs. Fowler will be there along with six or eight others who have birthdays in October. If your birthday is in October, we all wish you a "Happy Birthday!" also.
You can read our latest newsletter here. It's the story of the Community Store and other general stores on the island.
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After lunch I finished a few household chores....and then made deviled eggs. This evening I'll be going to an "October Birthday Party." It will be a potluck dinner, and I know folks will be looking for the deviled eggs. Fowler will be there along with six or eight others who have birthdays in October. If your birthday is in October, we all wish you a "Happy Birthday!" also.
You can read our latest newsletter here. It's the story of the Community Store and other general stores on the island.
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Saturday, October 21, 2006
Visiting
Lachlan & I went visiting yesterday afternoon. We stopped to see Ann Scarborough. She is 97 years old and a delight to spend time with. I can only hope I am as mentally sharp if I am lucky enough to live so long. Ann's great-grandson, Max, was off-island so we didn't get to visit with him. But Lachlan did manage to find most of his toys.
Then we stopped by to see Fowler and Chloe O'Neal. Fowler will be 85 years old today. Fowler was one of my dad's closest buddies. And Chloe & Fowler's granddaughter, Aurora Dawn, is the same age as Lachlan -- to the day. Aurora Dawn lives in Alaska so they are always happy to see Lachlan. As usual, they gave him a banana, which he gladly took.
I hope Lachlan will remember these visits, a happy connection to our island's heritage.
You can read our latest newsletter here. It's the story of the Community Store and other general stores on the island.
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Then we stopped by to see Fowler and Chloe O'Neal. Fowler will be 85 years old today. Fowler was one of my dad's closest buddies. And Chloe & Fowler's granddaughter, Aurora Dawn, is the same age as Lachlan -- to the day. Aurora Dawn lives in Alaska so they are always happy to see Lachlan. As usual, they gave him a banana, which he gladly took.
I hope Lachlan will remember these visits, a happy connection to our island's heritage.
You can read our latest newsletter here. It's the story of the Community Store and other general stores on the island.
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Friday, October 20, 2006
Ocean Swimming
I really hate to break this news to all of you off-islanders....but the weather here has been just stellar! I know, we've heard about cold weather around the country -- even snow in parts of the midwest and New York. Yesterday afternoon I went for a stroll along the beach. Wore my bathing suit. Sky was bright blue, temp in the upper 70s, sand warm and soft. And the water was....how shall I put it?....inviting. Never passed another person the whole time I was out there, so I did what any sensible person would do, and then I jumped in. It was wonderful!!
(Really....it's not always so nice in late October. We've just been super lucky this year. You probably shouldn't even think about driving out here. :-) It's cloudy today with rain likely this weekend. By the time you get here we'll probably have a cold snap.)
You can read our latest newsletter here. It's the story of the Community Store and other general stores on the island.
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(Really....it's not always so nice in late October. We've just been super lucky this year. You probably shouldn't even think about driving out here. :-) It's cloudy today with rain likely this weekend. By the time you get here we'll probably have a cold snap.)
You can read our latest newsletter here. It's the story of the Community Store and other general stores on the island.
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Thursday, October 19, 2006
Visitors
Yesterday a reader made this comment:
"Your latest post, about renowned visitors, made me wonder if any other big-name folks ever find their way to the island -- and what sort of reception/treatment they might receive from other visitors/residents...."
Some of you may have read that Charles Lindbergh landed on the north end of Ocracoke many years ago. He stayed several hours and visited with the men of the Life Saving Station.
I once found an obscure reference to the author John Dos Passos. Apparently he and some friends hiked along the Outer Banks in the 1920s. They crossed Ocracoke Inlet courtesy of the US Coast Guard, and stayed overnight at Captain Bill Gaskill's Pamlico Inn. According to "John Dos Passos: A Twentieth-Century Odyssey," by Townsend Ludington, "The evening they left Ocracoke they had a lively time square dancing with several pretty girls and drinking Captain Gaskill's concoction of Grape-Ola mixed with orange extract."
I commented to one islander that I wondered if Captain Bill or any of the others realized that a rather well known author was visiting them. His reply, "Probably not, and even if they did know they wouldn't have cared."
In the '30s & '40s many North Carolina politicians (Governors, Senators, & Representatives) came to the island to hunt and fish. They relaxed and spent many a happy hour with their island hosts.
In more recent years I've heard that a number of celebrities have visited Ocracoke. I do not vouch for any of this information! You never know what to believe around here, but the following names have been tossed about: Jimmy Buffet, Robert Plant, Tom Cruise, Nichole Kidman, Michelle Pfeiffer, Johnny Depp, Kevin Costner, and Sean Connery. I've not seen any of them....but then I probably wouldn't recognize most of these folks anyway (they don't let me out much!).
When rumor spreads that a celebrity has been spotted on the island, there is a brief buzz around town, but then it dies down pretty quickly. Like old Bill Gaskill I suspect that most islanders would just yawn.
You can read our latest newsletter here. It's the story of the Community Store and other general stores on the island.
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"Your latest post, about renowned visitors, made me wonder if any other big-name folks ever find their way to the island -- and what sort of reception/treatment they might receive from other visitors/residents...."
Some of you may have read that Charles Lindbergh landed on the north end of Ocracoke many years ago. He stayed several hours and visited with the men of the Life Saving Station.
I once found an obscure reference to the author John Dos Passos. Apparently he and some friends hiked along the Outer Banks in the 1920s. They crossed Ocracoke Inlet courtesy of the US Coast Guard, and stayed overnight at Captain Bill Gaskill's Pamlico Inn. According to "John Dos Passos: A Twentieth-Century Odyssey," by Townsend Ludington, "The evening they left Ocracoke they had a lively time square dancing with several pretty girls and drinking Captain Gaskill's concoction of Grape-Ola mixed with orange extract."
I commented to one islander that I wondered if Captain Bill or any of the others realized that a rather well known author was visiting them. His reply, "Probably not, and even if they did know they wouldn't have cared."
In the '30s & '40s many North Carolina politicians (Governors, Senators, & Representatives) came to the island to hunt and fish. They relaxed and spent many a happy hour with their island hosts.
In more recent years I've heard that a number of celebrities have visited Ocracoke. I do not vouch for any of this information! You never know what to believe around here, but the following names have been tossed about: Jimmy Buffet, Robert Plant, Tom Cruise, Nichole Kidman, Michelle Pfeiffer, Johnny Depp, Kevin Costner, and Sean Connery. I've not seen any of them....but then I probably wouldn't recognize most of these folks anyway (they don't let me out much!).
When rumor spreads that a celebrity has been spotted on the island, there is a brief buzz around town, but then it dies down pretty quickly. Like old Bill Gaskill I suspect that most islanders would just yawn.
You can read our latest newsletter here. It's the story of the Community Store and other general stores on the island.
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Wednesday, October 18, 2006
Wooden Hat
We get a lot of interesting folks passing through Ocracoke. One long-time customer went to high school with Fidel Castro. Two young women visited several years ago from the island of Mauritius. (If you have to look on a globe to know exactly where this is you're not alone.) Some years ago an older gentleman sat on the front porch and entertained us with songs he played on the saw. The former Governor of NC, Jim Hunt, stopped by two years ago.
We have a smattering of odd folks too, now and then -- the spider lady, the blanket man, the car lady (don't even ask about these folks).
And then there was the young man who lived here for a few years who could play the William Tell Overture on his teeth.
Several days ago a gentleman walked into the gallery wearing a wooden hat. That's right, a wooden hat. He carved it from a block of laminated wood. It was nicked in a couple of places. We asked him how that happened. "I was on this horse," he said, "and it bucked. I went over the horse's head and got my boots caught in the stirrups. I yelled. That's when the store manager came out and pulled the plug."
Anyway, here's a photo of Henry Barkley from New Castle, PA. Hats off to Henry!
You can read our latest newsletter here. It's the story of the Community Store and other general stores on the island..
We have a smattering of odd folks too, now and then -- the spider lady, the blanket man, the car lady (don't even ask about these folks).
And then there was the young man who lived here for a few years who could play the William Tell Overture on his teeth.
Several days ago a gentleman walked into the gallery wearing a wooden hat. That's right, a wooden hat. He carved it from a block of laminated wood. It was nicked in a couple of places. We asked him how that happened. "I was on this horse," he said, "and it bucked. I went over the horse's head and got my boots caught in the stirrups. I yelled. That's when the store manager came out and pulled the plug."
Anyway, here's a photo of Henry Barkley from New Castle, PA. Hats off to Henry!
You can read our latest newsletter here. It's the story of the Community Store and other general stores on the island..
Tuesday, October 17, 2006
Photos
Last month my good friend, Jim Fineman, from Manteo paid me a visit for several days. He took a number of photos which he shared with me. I thought our readers would enjoy seeing a few of them.
The first two are of my outbuilding. The third one is of my front porch. The last, of course, is a view of Silver Lake.
You can read our latest newsletter here. It's the story of the Community Store and other general stores on the island.
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The first two are of my outbuilding. The third one is of my front porch. The last, of course, is a view of Silver Lake.
You can read our latest newsletter here. It's the story of the Community Store and other general stores on the island.
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Monday, October 16, 2006
Wydge
Dale recently reminded me of another unique island expression that he "just came out with" sometime last week. Talking with his wife, Jaren, he mentioned someone "going on a wydge." Jaren is not originally from Ocracoke and she was completely dumbfounded. She'd never heard of a wydge. I'm guessing you haven't either, unless you're an old-time O'cocker.
Dale had no idea where the word came from, but he, of course, knew that it meant going on a trip. So, just like I've done so many times, he strolled over to cousin Blanche's and ran it by her. Lo and behold, she had the explanation that made perfect sense, if we'd just thought about it.
Years ago it was not uncommon for Outer Bankers to transpose Ws and Vs. For example, they'd say they were going into the willage to buy some potatoes. Or they might be taking some witamins for their health. It's not hard to see how they also might be undertaking a woyage. With a little bit of Ocracoke dialect thrown in, woyage, it would seem, almost effortlessly became wydge.
You can read our latest newsletter here. It's the story of the Community Store and other general stores on the island.
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Dale had no idea where the word came from, but he, of course, knew that it meant going on a trip. So, just like I've done so many times, he strolled over to cousin Blanche's and ran it by her. Lo and behold, she had the explanation that made perfect sense, if we'd just thought about it.
Years ago it was not uncommon for Outer Bankers to transpose Ws and Vs. For example, they'd say they were going into the willage to buy some potatoes. Or they might be taking some witamins for their health. It's not hard to see how they also might be undertaking a woyage. With a little bit of Ocracoke dialect thrown in, woyage, it would seem, almost effortlessly became wydge.
You can read our latest newsletter here. It's the story of the Community Store and other general stores on the island.
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Sunday, October 15, 2006
LeConte Photos
Just thought some of our readers would enjoy seeing a photo of me and my companions at the top of Mt. LeConte last week. I'm second from the right in the front. We islanders so often get the question, "What do you all do in the winter?" Most of us enjoy traveling, along with a bit of adventure, when we're not at home.In the photo we are standing on a rise (this is on a mountain, of course). Behind us is the top of the dining hall, which is ten or so feet lower. The sign on the building reads Elevation 6593 feet. (It's a wonder I manage this climb so easily since I spend most of my time about four feet above sealevel!)
You can read our latest newsletter here. It's the story of the Community Store and other general stores on the island.
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Saturday, October 14, 2006
Island Health Care
Yesterday I mentioned driving to Avon on Hatteras Island to see a doctor. It was a five hour round trip for a ten minute appointment. I went to Avon because we have no health care provider on the island right now.
A reader asked, "No health care provider on the island until next week? Would you elaborate on that? I've seen the health care facility just up the road from the library. Is that not staffed year round? Just curious about how O'cockers cope with the health care related slings and arrows of daily life."
Yes, we do have a health clinic, but for a while now we have had no resident physician. We do have a very fine physician's assistant who is here often (I don't know his exact schedule), but, unfortunately for me, he won't be back on the island until next week.
As you might imagine, it is not easy to attract a physician to such a small isolated village. For one thing, we do not have the funds to compete with most other places. Also, although things slow down in the off-season, the summer months can be very stressful for a single health care provider. He or she is "on call" twenty-four hours a day. It is difficult to go fishing, take a boat ride to Portsmouth, drive "up the beach" for groceries, or even to take a couple of hours to lie in the sun on the beach.
Of course, there are other advantages to serving on Ocracoke, but apparently not enough to keep a full time physician here right now.
You can read our latest newsletter here. It's the story of the Community Store and other general stores on the island.
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A reader asked, "No health care provider on the island until next week? Would you elaborate on that? I've seen the health care facility just up the road from the library. Is that not staffed year round? Just curious about how O'cockers cope with the health care related slings and arrows of daily life."
Yes, we do have a health clinic, but for a while now we have had no resident physician. We do have a very fine physician's assistant who is here often (I don't know his exact schedule), but, unfortunately for me, he won't be back on the island until next week.
As you might imagine, it is not easy to attract a physician to such a small isolated village. For one thing, we do not have the funds to compete with most other places. Also, although things slow down in the off-season, the summer months can be very stressful for a single health care provider. He or she is "on call" twenty-four hours a day. It is difficult to go fishing, take a boat ride to Portsmouth, drive "up the beach" for groceries, or even to take a couple of hours to lie in the sun on the beach.
Of course, there are other advantages to serving on Ocracoke, but apparently not enough to keep a full time physician here right now.
You can read our latest newsletter here. It's the story of the Community Store and other general stores on the island.
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Friday, October 13, 2006
Back Home
Hi! This is Philip back again. I was off-island, as we say, hiking in the Great Smokey Mountains, and then joining thousands of other folks at the National Storytelling Festival in the tiny village of Jonesboro Tennessee.
Every fall I hike to Mt. LeConte in East Tennessee. It was an eight mile hike to over 6500 feet. As you might imagine, the views were fantastic. At sunset we sat on a rocky outcropping watching the sky turn shades of red, orange, and pink...and then deep violets. Finally there was that inky blackness and hundreds of distant, sparkling, fiery diamonds strewn across the heavens. Much like Ocracoke's sky, but enchanting because of the altitude & the rolling mountains as far as the eye could see.
One endearing fact about LeConte is that there is a "lodge" on the top of the mountain. There are no roads leading up there, but years ago they built this lodge (don't ask me how they did it). Every spring they helicopter great quantities of food and supplies in. Then throughout the season (the lodge is closed in the winter -- too much snow) they use llamas to transport linens and trash up and down the trails.
Anyway the benefit to me and my companions is that they feed us and give us lodging when we get to the top. So our packs are lighter, and we eat better than the typical hiker!
Unfortunately, I returned home with a severe case of bronchitis which has kept me at home for days. Finally I drove to Avon yesterday to see a doctor (we have no health care provider on the island until next week). Now, with antibiotics I should be improving steadily. So I expect to be back, posting journal entries on a regular basis. I thank Jude for keeping up with island news while I've been away or out of commission. I hope she'll continue to post some more. I like her style.
You can read our latest newsletter here. It's the story of the Community Store and other general stores on the island.
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Every fall I hike to Mt. LeConte in East Tennessee. It was an eight mile hike to over 6500 feet. As you might imagine, the views were fantastic. At sunset we sat on a rocky outcropping watching the sky turn shades of red, orange, and pink...and then deep violets. Finally there was that inky blackness and hundreds of distant, sparkling, fiery diamonds strewn across the heavens. Much like Ocracoke's sky, but enchanting because of the altitude & the rolling mountains as far as the eye could see.
One endearing fact about LeConte is that there is a "lodge" on the top of the mountain. There are no roads leading up there, but years ago they built this lodge (don't ask me how they did it). Every spring they helicopter great quantities of food and supplies in. Then throughout the season (the lodge is closed in the winter -- too much snow) they use llamas to transport linens and trash up and down the trails.
Anyway the benefit to me and my companions is that they feed us and give us lodging when we get to the top. So our packs are lighter, and we eat better than the typical hiker!
Unfortunately, I returned home with a severe case of bronchitis which has kept me at home for days. Finally I drove to Avon yesterday to see a doctor (we have no health care provider on the island until next week). Now, with antibiotics I should be improving steadily. So I expect to be back, posting journal entries on a regular basis. I thank Jude for keeping up with island news while I've been away or out of commission. I hope she'll continue to post some more. I like her style.
You can read our latest newsletter here. It's the story of the Community Store and other general stores on the island.
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Thursday, October 12, 2006
Back Again
I thought Philip would be back with you today but he's a bit under the weather. Which brings me to this mornings' shower. This morning was one of those kind of mornings that you want to go on all day long - sparkling - slow - the air scented with the good smells of the earth and the water. I stayed 'til I was pruney. Our outdoor shower is on our deck by the kitchen door. When you're in our shower and look up there's the sky and cedar trees and the wisteria vine. When the wisteria is in bloom you're showered not only with water but with hundreds of small lavender petals. I have bowed slightly at the waist a time or two imaging myself as royalty. One is quickly jolted back to reality when upon turning to grab the soap (Franks') you find yourself eye to eye with a frog or fiddler crab. Then there are the cats . Lord , they let you have no dignity as they gaze up at you from the outside. It's not a place for modesty - an outdoor shower. Good thing those critters can't talk.
You can read our latest newsletter here. It's the story of the Community Store and other general stores on the island
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You can read our latest newsletter here. It's the story of the Community Store and other general stores on the island
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Wednesday, October 11, 2006
It's Only Me
Guess I must have confused some folks and I do apologize. Philip has been gone a lot lately so I've been doing the blogs ( I prefer visits ). I know you can tell the difference between us because when I do them they're erratic in number, the pot lucks stop as do the daily walks on the beach. I apologize for that too. I'm Jude and I've been here forever, but I'm in the back. If you look at the photo on the home page, I'm the blond in the sun glasses and turquoise dress. My son Travis is next to me. Only problem there is that photo is about a million years old and I no more look like that anymore than Bill Clinton does. My offical title around here is "Thorn in Philips' Side" and I carry it proudly. My husband Frank and I have the Hemp Shop next door to Village Craftsmen (little plug there). I'm sure many of you have stopped by there and been insulted by Frank. He's very good at it in a real cute way. Dale Mutro is married to my niece Jaren. My son Matt and daughter-in-law Mary live here with their two daughters Lici, eight and Hannah Rae, two and a half. Mary works for Ocracoke Preservation Society and Matty is a commercial fisherman and is an excellent carpenter. My youngest son Travis lives in Indianapolis with his wife April and their three year old daughter Ava. We have a wonderful Pembroke Welch Corgi named Willy and I know a lot of you know him! He's a celebrity. I'm very involved with Ocracats and have been for years. I kid Philip a lot but it's with affection. He's a good and kind friend. He's back on the island so you'll be hearing from him 'til he goes again. It's been enjoyable visiting with ya'll. Later.
You can read our latest newsletter here. It's the story of the Community Store and other general stores on the island
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You can read our latest newsletter here. It's the story of the Community Store and other general stores on the island
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