Author: Pat D

Looks like this dock is heading to a winter home on the Annisquam.

Additional pictures of the intriguing reflections and textures on a gorgeous bright winter day.

The Great Winter Birdwatcher Migration has begun once again . These birdwatchers were observed in a peaceful social group enjoying the sun on the back shore. Me e-birdwatcher report includes a nice Back Shore Towhee along with a Blue Crowned Thrush. The thrill of the day though, was spotting the male Red Breasted Puffleg! See him there on the end? Keep your eyes open and you might spot one too!

As Cindy Lou Who said in the movie:”No matter how different a Who may appear, he will always be welcome with holiday cheer.” Cheers and Merry Christmas!

The brilliant sun and pristine snow were a treat for the eyes. I thought you might enjoy these peaceful scenes on Christmas Eve.

It was a very pretty day at Sandy Point State Reservation recently. It’s a nice little side trip from Parker River National Wildlife Refuge if the road isn’t closed due to weather related issues.

Yesterday was the shortest day of the year, so these sunset scenes will be occurring later in the day from now until June!

We noticed this apparently lost hawk sitting atop a weathervane and I couldn’t help but think he was calculating his next move.

Then we noticed there was a second hawk watching and waiting. I couldn’t help but think that second hawk was saying “If only you’d just ask for directions………”

Now I will be looking at this weathervane every time we drive by this lovely barn.

The magnificence of our skies and sea take my breath away.  I hope your holidays bring similar joy for you.

Gift guides and ideas from the Gloucester Daily Times Dec 6 1934. In many ways, things haven’t really changed that much, have they?

I am tickled to see Santa’s mailbox at Destinos. I have a few things on my list. I’m not asking for peace on Earth or the happiness of my children. I appeal to a higher power for those kinds of things. Santa’s powers are a little more material in nature. Therefore:

I’d wish for the socks to come out of the wash in a matched pair.

I’d ask that drivers use their turn signals consistently and reliably.

It would be nice if my phone would just follow me around rather than having to remember it or locate it.

Thank you Santa!

Our Coast Guard doing its thing for us. As always, thank  you!

Foggy ambiance for Lobster Tree lighting activities Saturday night.

There are things in your life that you treat yourself to just because it makes sense. Angie’s Alpaca Socks are my weak spot. I just love these and when I realized I’d left mine behind in New York recently, I panicked a little. Luckily for me, these great products are out at many local craft fairs at this time of year, so I now have a new pair. They might seem pricey for socks ($21) but I think I get my wear out of them as I wear them nearly daily in the winter months. So cozy and warm!

Scenes from Wingaersheek Beach on a bright winter day:

It was a pretty day down at the docks. Nearly forgot how stinking cold it was.

As you know, we attended last week’s Crush Cancer event at Tonno. Many local businesses contributed to the fundraising and we will be trying to support these places whenever we can. Today we decided to go to Bravo By the Sea in Manchester as they were very supportive of the Crush Cancer efforts. We met Ella and Nick and had a lovely late lunch. Jim got the chopped salad and we ordered a meatball pizza. Delicious! Friendly! Nearby! Winner Winner. Thank you Bravo for your support.

Some photos of the Annisquam dredging project taken last weekend. It’s quite a sight!

It was cold and windy, but these clammers were not deterred.

The light on the horizon following the recent snowstorm made for a very pretty reward.