The first Observer

Yesterday when I was closing the shop I met Linda Rippe delivering the first "Ocracoke Observer" of the year. For those of you who don't know, the Observer is our local monthly newspaper. It's always a sure sign of spring, sort of like seeing the first robin. Frank says my analogies are a little off but what does he know? The April Observer has an article on the new sidewalks, the new book by Pat Garber celebrating the heritage of Ocracoke's wild ponies, a well deserved salute to the Ocracoke Volunteer Fire Department and a story about the old Doxsee clam factory. We have good news. Dr. Moore, who left Ocracoke in 2004 will be back with us again starting mid-April. He's a wonderful fellow and we're so glad to have him back . There's an article on the Highway 12 replacement of our six bridges next winter. We're all very concerned about that situation. There's a great letter to the editor by Merle Smith Davis asking for kinder and gentler dialog no matter what our point of view. Amen to that! And, there is so much more packed into this edition including a really neat surprise. Pick one up next time you're on the island or better yet subscribe so you can keep up with " all the news that's fit to print on Ocracoke".

(Posted by Jude)

Here's the link to read all about the whistle: http://www.villagecraftsmen.com/news031807.htm

Spring Cleaning

I just finished spring cleaning the "back" of Village Craftsmen. The back consists of my office, the stockroom and the room where new merchandise is received and priced and mailorders are processed for shipping. That area is fondly (?) known as the "Jude Wing". Last year I didn't get to clean it because I had a double knee replacement in February and was still recouping. So this spring - WHEW - what a job! It took almost two full weeks but darlin' it's spiffy now! I've dared everyone in the place to mess it up on threat of death. Well, maybe not death but something close. Spring Cleaning - can't wait to start at home - getting rid of, scrubbing, flinging open windows and letting in fresh warm breezes and sunshine, seeing flowers start to bloom, the birth of baby ducks and geese. It's time for the winter doldrums and cobwebs to be swept away by the joy and eternal optimism of spring. The possibilities are endless and the turtles will be back.....any day.

(Posted by Jude)

Here's the link to read all about the whistle: http://www.villagecraftsmen.com/news031807.htm

Almost Over

Dallie and I were talking this morning about "offseason". Again, things are just different in tourist areas and we have to ask for your understanding at times. From April 'til Thanksgiving we work long, long hours six or seven days a week. We just plain wear out! Village Craftsmen (the shop) is closed in January and usually half of February but we are still here working. We do inventory, place orders for the coming season, tend to the online website shipping orders daily and CLEANING (I'll talk more about that tomorrow). Everyone needs a vacation, needs to reconnect with family, friends and neighbors not seen much in months of busyness. We need to be home. We really do love to have all of you come back. We're glad to see you. But...you'll have to forgive us if we're a little sad to see "offseason" end.

(Posted by Jude)

Here's the link to read all about the whistle: http://www.villagecraftsmen.com/news031807.htm

A Good Memory

A few days ago was the fifth anniversary of the death of Philips' Dad , Lawton. Hard to believe it's been that long. He was one of the most wonderful, devilish, incorrigible, funny men I have ever known. He and I had a great give and take relationship. When he and my son Travis got together there was no telling what mischief would occur! Few days go by that don't bring back memories of Lawton. They are good memories.

(Posted by Jude)

Here's the link to read all about the whistle: http://www.villagecraftsmen.com/news031807.htm.

Up the Beach

To most of you running out to the store to pick up a little something is no big deal. Just hop in the car, do the errand and you're back shortly. A trip to the doctor or dentist to the grocery store or to pick up plants at a nursery is rather common place. But to us who live on Ocracoke a trip to anywhere beyond the Variety Store takes planning. Shall we leave on the 6 or 7Am ferry? Who can we get to watch to dog? Will the Orange Blossom be out of Apple Uglies by the time we get there? Shall we have fast food for lunch or no lunch and try a new restaurant for dinner? In any case a bucket of Kentucky Fried Chicken is always on the backseat on the trip home. It's two hours to Nags Head including the ferry ride and of course two hours home. There's four hours gone and we haven't even left yet! We always inform friends and neighbors that we're going and ask if there's anything we can pick up for them. Our trip usually turns into an adventure and we get back home late, happy,poorer and exhausted from.........up the beach.

(Posted by Jude)

Here's the link to read all about the whistle: http://www.villagecraftsmen.com/news031807.htm.

Sorry Bout That!

So sorry - I thought Philip was writing in the journal yesterday and he thought I was, so consequently...zip! Philip is on his way today to a lovely vacation so I'll be journaling for another week but not on weekends. I will be in my gardens both at home and at the shop this weekend. My palms have been itching this week and for me that means I need to work in the dirt not that I'm going to get money (I should be so lucky ). Frank
always says he's never known a grown woman who likes to grub in the mud more than me. He's right.

Here's the link to read all about the whistle: http://www.villagecraftsmen.com/news031807.htm.

A Twig Whistle

Well, we've done it again. We've published yet another monthly Newsletter from Ocracoke Island. This month I explain how to make a simple traditional wooden whistle from a Myrtle branch (or a Willow branch if you can't find Myrtle). So take a look at the directions, round up a child (if you don't have one of your own a grandchild or a neighbor will do) and teach him or her a fun, old-timey skill. We'll even publish photos of your whistle if you send them to us. Enjoy.

Here's the link to read all about the whistle: http://www.villagecraftsmen.com/news031807.htm.

Another Island

Before spring officially begins, this evening I believe, I must tell you about our winter vacation. People who live on islands have a tendancy to vacation on other islands. A few days after Christmas Frank, Dale, Jaren and I flew to Aruba where we vacationed for a couple of weeks. We didn't do the "tourist" thing. No resorts, no casinos (well, one night). We rented a private home and spent the two weeks exploring the Arikok National Park, snorkeling, swimming, swimming, swimming oh yes, and did I mention swimming in the bluest, warmest most... oh well (sigh). The food was fabulous, the people warm and friendly and you know how I am about creatures. They had wonderful creatures, big eyed parakeets ,hummingbirds, teeny colorful little birds, Iguanas,wild donkeys and goats and these adorable lizards called Cododos that are irridescent blues and greens. They come up to you in a restaurant or even in the house and beg for food. They're vegetarians. Aruba is a desert not a tropical island with cactus everywhere. The temperature was between 82 and 87 with no humidity and those wonderful tradewinds blowing constantly. We had the best New Years Eve ever. Incredible! Ocracoke in the spring, summer and fall. Aruba in the winter...............hmmmmmm.


(Posted by Jude)

This month's Ocracoke Newsletter tells about island customs relating to death & dying. You can read the newsletter here.

And yet again.

Things are still very quiet on the island but you can feel that things are about to begin again. Folks are out and about cleaning up yards and just puttering, getting ready for the season. The Camillias in our yard are heavy with blossoms. They are gorgeous. Some of the Azaleas are just starting to bloom. Many little warblers are here on their way from somewhere to somewhere else. We're happy to have them here in the spring and fall. And so it all begins again.

( Posted by Jude)

This month's Ocracoke Newsletter tells about island customs relating to death & dying. You can read the newsletter here.

Thank you for not "Ninnying"

This has been a glorious week. The temperature has been in the upper 60's and low 70's. Because of the temperature of the water surrounding the island, we're always cooler in the spring and warmer in the fall than the mainland. It's soooooooo hard to stay indoors when all you want to do is trim or plant or just sit in the sun and listen to the birds Dallie and I have been hard pressed to keep our minds on shop business this week. (Don't tell Philip). I can hear Frank and Dale out in the back yard of the hemp shop clipping and raking and laughing......in the SUN. Not fair! Sounds a lot like Spring Fever doesn't it? Sounds a lot like ninnying too. Sorry 'bout that. Have a great weekend!

(Posted By Jude)

This month's Ocracoke Newsletter tells about island customs relating to death & dying. You can read the newsletter here.

Antics on the "Slough"

My husband Frank and I live on a creek called the "Old Slough". It's very low this time of year. It's tidal but the prevailing winds in the spring seem to keep the tidal flow minimal. (that's a guess) Having been built long ago, our house sits close to the creek but up high. We are in the unique position of being able to observe from our deck, the behavior of the wonderful creatures who live there and some who are merely passing through. We can observe without being noticed unless we wish to interact. The turtles are still hibernating but the Mallards wake us every morning at daybreak calling for their corn. Then there are the antics of three Canada Geese, real clowns, who are back for the fifth season to mate and raise their babies in our yard (yes, I said three, don't ask....I don't know). And, very special this spring is a pair of Wooducks, initially very fearful but now gaining confidence to come near and eat. They are incredibly beautiful! Mix these with Egrets, Great Blue Herons, Dudley the Rooster and his hen, our ten cats, Pungo the dog nextdoor and our Corgi Willie, all getting along and making us laugh with their antics and well I hope you get the picture. It's a nice one.

Posted by Jude

This month's Ocracoke Newsletter tells about island customs relating to death & dying. You can read the newsletter here.

Gone for Awhile

Many of you have met or at least know of one of our wonderful local authors, Pat Garber. She has written "Orcacoke Wild", "Ocracoke Odyssey", "Your Questions Answered", and the new "Little Sea Horse". She also writes a monthly column for the Island Breeze and periodically writes for Wildlife NC. She's recorded two CD's - "Dream Sailing" and " Beyond the Blue Horizon". She teaches music to daycare, pre-K, 1st and 2nd graders. She is a former wildlife rehabilitator on the island and active in Ocracats. She just left her job as director of the Ocracoke Preservation Society. She also makes Yaupon tea and she's my best friend. She left the island the other day for a job at Ghost Ranch in Abiquia, NM. I am thrilled for her and sad for me. We'll miss her very much .......safe home Pat.

(Posted by Jude)

This month's Ocracoke Newsletter tells about island customs relating to death & dying. You can read the newsletter here.

Spring Rollercoaster

I have always loved the changes in the seasons but must admit the older I get the more I realize I could skip winter and be happy. Last Saturday was glorious. I was out working in the yard in the warm sun. Sweeeeet! Sunday the wind blew a gale from the north and it was cold as stone..again. Today, it's 70 degrees.. again! Up and down, up and down - the spring rollercoaster begins. But--- it's 70 TODAY and that's good. I think I'll go outside for lunch and soak up some of the warmth before..........

(Posted by Jude)

This month's Ocracoke Newsletter tells about island customs relating to death & dying. You can read the newsletter here.

Happy Birthday Muze!

Just a reminder that today March 12, 2007 is Muzel Bryant's 103rd birthday. Muze is finally getting the recognition she deserves. I understand that she'll be at least mentioned on the "Today Show" on Wednesday March 14th between 8AM and 9:30AM and I believe a famous Hollywood director is going to visit with her tomorrow. Congratulations Muze! Many more Darlin'.

(Posted by Jude)

This month's Ocracoke Newsletter tells about island customs relating to death & dying. You can read the newsletter here.

A Great Day to be Alive

This is one of those terrific early spring days. I didn't even stand and shiver this morning waiting for the water in my outdoor shower to get hot. The sky is clear and picture-postcard blue. The bright sun makes the white picket fences sparkle. And talk in the village is of putting boats back in the water, bringing in fresh fish for dinner, shops & restaurants opening, visitors returning, and flowers blooming. Life is sweet, as my grandfather would say.

This month's Ocracoke Newsletter tells about island customs relating to death & dying. You can read the newsletter here.

Bits & Pieces

Just a few words to keep you posted about island news:

• An Inconvenient Truth will be shown at Deepwater Theater Sunday evening. There is no charge and everyone is invited. (Check at the P.O. for the time.)
• Monday, March 12, is Muzel Bryant's 103rd birthday. Happy Birthday Muze! I understand that The Today Show will air Muzel's birthday on March 14th, between 8:00 and 9:30 am.
  
• Tuesday evening, March 13, at 7:00 pm Ocracoke Friends of the Library will hold their annual membership meeting. Again everyone is invited.
  
• Contractors are laying sidewalks in the heart of the village as I write. They are scheduled to be finished no later than the middle of May.
• The OPS Museum will open to the public on March 29th. This begins its 16th year of operation.
• Today is the anniversary of the wreck of the Lillie F. Schmidt in 1893. The wreck was sighted at 6 am, ten miles from the Hatteras Inlet Life Saving Station. The crew, with the help of mules, brought the life saving equipment to the vessel and rescued all seven crew members. They returned to their station at midnight, after walking twenty miles. The keeper reported that the surfmen were "tired and worn out."
  

Jude will be writing our journal entries most of the next several weeks. I will be helping my son rewire his house, and will be taking a break from the journal. Also several friends will be visiting. If the weather is warm and you see them sitting on my porch swing enjoying the spring please wave as you pass by. (I'll probably be crawling around under my son's house during daylight hours.)

This month's Ocracoke Newsletter tells about island customs relating to death & dying. You can read the newsletter here.

Business Openings

This morning I had this question on our journal:

"At the end of Thanksgiving week, many businesses were shutting down for the season. With the warm breezes and hints of spring, what's the pace of life these days? Your business opened. What about the coffee shop, The Back Porch restaurant, etc? Folks starting to come out of their winter dens?"

Yes, Village Craftsmen is open -- Wednesday - Sunday, 10 a.m. - 5 p.m. This is our schedule through the end of this month. Beginning in April we will be open seven days a week, 9 a.m. - 6 p.m.

I never seem to know what other businesses are open this time of year. I've heard that the Pony Island Restaurant is open, and I think the Flying Melon Restaurant will be opening in a week or two. Jason's has been open all winter, as has Howard's Pub. I don't know when the Back Porch will be re-opening, and I haven't heard any news of the Coffee Shop either.

Several shops have been open now and then, including Natural Selections and Books to be Red & Deepwater Pottery, all on School Road.

I am guessing that most businesses will be open by the first or second week in April. And maybe it will be warm (and stay warm) by then, too. If any of our local readers know of other openings, just leave a comment.

PS: Ocrakate, I'll be working on your million just as soon as I secure mine (see comment on yesterday's post).

This month's Ocracoke Newsletter tells about island customs relating to death & dying. You can read the newsletter here.

A Biting Wind

Yesterday afternoon I walked along the surf. In the winter I always start out heading into the wind, usually north. I was wearing a hooded sweatshirt, a hat, an outer jacket, and woolen gloves. I pulled the sweatshirt strings tight around my neck. In short order I pulled the hood of my jacket up over my head and fastened the tabs in front of my chin and mouth. I could barely see. Only the sand and incoming tide at my feet were not obscured. The frigid air was biting at my eyes and cheeks. But I trudged on.

Finally I turned around and headed home. "May the wind always be at your back" is a worthy toast. What a difference. I lowered both hoods and even unzipped my jacket. The return walk was much more pleasant.

Today the weather has moderated quite a bit. Temperatures are now in the mid 60s. I suppose I'd be foolish not to take a walk on the beach today.

This month's Ocracoke Newsletter tells about island customs relating to death & dying. You can read the newsletter here.

Where is Spring?

With temperatures only in the upper 30s this morning islanders are wondering where Spring is hiding out. Although it is bright and sunny, the cold air makes outside chores less pleasant than normal. The one persistent sign of Spring is the cedar trees, however. This time of year they are heavy with golden pollen. Luckily for me I am not as bothered by allergies as some of my friends and neighbors. Some folks simply stay indoors as much as possible when pollen is blowing in the wind. But it won't last forever, and soon it will be warm besides. And we'll be ready.

This month's Ocracoke Newsletter tells about island customs relating to death & dying. You can read the newsletter here.

Sidewalks

When Ocracoke's first roads were paved (first during WWII, then in the 1950s) there was little anticipation that the village would host so many summer visitors. As a result, the state of North Carolina's right of way on roads through the heart of the village includes no more than the pavement itself. This has led to much congestion, especially in July & August, as vehicles, pedestrians, and bicyclists all vie for space on the roadway.

Some relief is now in sight. Thanks to the efforts of Earl O'Neal and others, especially landowners along Highway 12, the state is in the process of installing narrow, but serviceable sidewalks between "kayak corner" and the ferry lanes. According to Earl, the project should be completed by May 18.

This month's Ocracoke Newsletter tells about island customs relating to death & dying. You can read the newsletter here.

Shell Castle Enterprise

In the late 1700s John Wallace and John Gray Blount recognized the importance of Ocracoke Inlet as a strategic passageway for commercial vessels bound to and from mainland ports in colonial North Carolina. As a result they constructed a commercial enterprise on "Old Rock," a small oyster shell island between Ocracoke and Portsmouth. Renamed "Shell Castle," a tavern, store, wharves, warehouses, and even a lighthouse were built there. By 1837 1,400 vessels passed through Ocracoke Inlet annually.

As isolated as Ocracoke became after Hatteras Inlet opened up in 1846 (at which time commercial shipping moved there), this was not always so. I often try to imagine what life was like back then when a dozen or more large sailing vessels sometimes lay at anchor in the sound just offshore, and Ocracoke was at the very center of much maritime activity along America's eastern seaboard.

This month's Ocracoke Newsletter tells about island customs relating to death & dying. You can read the newsletter here.

More About Broken Seashells

On Wednesday I wrote a few lines about broken shells. It's always reassuring to know that folks are actually reading my posts, so I was pleased to get feedback from my cousin Dallie who works here at Village Craftsmen.

It seems the entry about broken shells brought back memories of a conversation Dallie's mama had years ago with an island artist. Dallie's mother made a comment to the artist about the beauty of a seashell and it's near perfect symmetry and form. He immediately countered that as an artist he found broken shells much more interesting and intriguing. Broken shells often reveal shapes and forms that complete shells lack, he explained.

So I've decided to include a photo of the conch that rests on my back porch table. Enjoy.



This month's Ocracoke Newsletter tells about island customs relating to death & dying. You can read the newsletter here.

Calling All Artists

I received the following note yesterday from my son-in-law, Fiddler Dave:

"This is just a quick note to let you know that the 2007 (June 1-3) Ocrafolk Festival is now accepting Artisan Applications. To apply online or download an application visit the festival website at www.ocrafolkfestival.org and click on the link to the left for Artisan Application. Thanks so much!"

I am thinking that some of our readers who are artisans may be interested in applying to exhibit at the Festival. Those of you who have participated or attended in years past know what a wonderful experience it is.

Even if you don't intend to exhibit, keep the date in mind. The Festival really is a great time to visit Ocracoke. Music, food, stories, crafts....we have it all.

This month's Ocracoke Newsletter tells about island customs relating to death & dying. You can read the newsletter here.

Robins

Whenever my mother would spy the first robin of the year -- usually in late February or early March -- she would jot the date down in her journal. And tell her children the good news. Robins, of course, are an early harbinger of spring. These small red-breasted birds are migrating through the island as I write. I noticed the first few yesterday, and this morning several are flitting around in the cedar trees outside my window.

The forecast for tomorrow calls for temperatures in the mid-60s, so I guess those robins know what they're doing. Spring can't be too far behind.


This month's Ocracoke Newsletter tells about island customs relating to death & dying. You can read the newsletter here.