Author: Pat D

We spotted this killdeer couple at Parker River Wildlife Sanctuary a few days ago and it was a welcome sign that spring really has begun. As of this writing, the refuge remains open, though no facilities like bathrooms are available.  The beach remains open entirely until April 1 when most of the beach will close to protect nesting birds.  Though there is an admission charge, the gate was not attended these last couple of times we have been there. There is a box for you to put your fee in and  you should note no dogs are allowed even in cars. It’s a nice little ride to take if you are feeling trapped and housebound. We see something different each time we go! These killdeer were fairly close to the roadway and easily observable.

Yesterday, Destino’s announced on its Facebook page that it will be closed today Sunday March 29 to allow for a day of rest as well as to take a  “Family Deep Clean Day”. They will reopen Monday for takeout, delivery and curbside pickup 8 AM – 9 PM. I am sure I am not alone in appreciating that they have remained available to us during this time. This picture is from their website:

An alert I received from the new Mass.Gov text alerting system let me know that the state has created a new way for residents to check their symptoms online and get the right care as needed. It’s called Buoy and further information is available here.

This is what you will see after you click the link to “Check your symptoms online” I hope you find this helpful.

Maybe a teeny-tiny bit of “normal” is called for about now. Fishing boats and lighthouses make a photogenic pair. Kind of wish I hadn’t noticed those people out on the breakwater that day ….water splashing over made it look pretty dangerous. Be careful out there!

From Fisherman’s Wharf Gloucester Facebook pagecomes news of a great opportunity to safely pick up some fresh haddock tomorrow Saturday March 28:

Wise words. Do it.

Update from Cake Ann emailed March 25.

We are seeing all kinds of examples of individuals and businesses stepping up the the challenge COVID-19 has presented.  Friends and neighbors are creating and sharing silly or heartwarming videos, solutions, and messages online. Safely delivering foods and services using new methods as demonstrated by our local restaurants and businesses is another example. Even our boss Joey is finding ways to podcast safely.  One fine example of this is Bob Ryan at Ryan & Wood who switched the distillery as needed to produce much needed hand sanitizer! I went up there yesterday to pick up this bottle (which I am predicting someday will go for high prices in antique stores as a sign of the times) and business was brisk.  People were patiently waiting their turn at 15 Great Republic Drive to pick up 1 liter bottles for $30 each.  I expect an entire liter to last through this self isolation. I sincerely appreciate their efforts to help the community.   The inventiveness demonstrated by all is heartwarming and soul-lifting. As Bob says “We’re all in the same dory.” More info here from the Gloucester Daily Times.

Please feel free to share your own examples of stepping up to the challenge.

Another welcome sign of spring: White Farms on the Causeway open for ice cream Thursday-Sunday noon to 8 PM. Yummmmmm….

My heart soared a bit when I came across this egret in the marsh. It felt very hopeful.

From Sefatia’s Facebook page:

Updating anyone interested

Thank you for this reassuring sentiment on Washington Street. And thank you health care workers among many others!

It’s strikes me that it’s a little bit like a “backwards” zoo. We are behind glass looking out. So much goes on out in the backyard! All we needed to do was take the time to watch.

The Baker-Polito administration today March 24 introduced a new tool for anyone interested in getting reliable COVID-19 updates for Massachusetts by text message.  Text COVIDMA to 888-777 to receive messages and links directly from state and public health officials. This new tool is intended “help connect residents to information that they are look for through other public information channels, such as the state’s information line, 2-1-1, and website searches on Mass.Gov.”  The link for further information is here.

The Ann B at Cape Pond Ice watching over the new dock work at the Paint Factory yesterday.  Life going on still!

Kissing the sun goodnight again……

I found this chart from the Asthma and Allergy Foundation of America helpful as well as reassuring and thought you might too:

I have been missing seeing eagles, so off we went to Deer Island near Amesbury. No crowds made it very easy to keep our distance. I went looking for eagles and we saw two adults in flight. Also saw some Goldeneyes; I am not very versatile in “duck”…I got the hint from a bird watcher (more than 6 feet away).  I was surprised to see the seal swimming up the river but it was a nice distraction while we waited for the eagles to show up. Watching nature unfold is a great reminder that we are not alone in this world; that we share it with other creatures.