Author: Pat D

To update you on the backyard red tailed hawk nest that we have been watching, we now believe there are at least 3 chicks in there.

It’s difficult to get clear shots of the nest through the trees, but Jim did a great job recently:

Flexing wings:

I think there’s 3 here. That nest must be pretty large.

Parent in nest perhaps bringing breakfast to the brood:

Watchful parent nearby:

I am volunteering at the Visitor Center again this year and recently worked my first 2019 shift. It’s such an amazing resource! Water is even available now with a new “Bubbla” fountain to fill water bottles. I took home a couple of brochures myself so I encourage residents and visitors to stop in and say “Hello”.

And with a view like this from the desk, why wouldn’t I volunteer? Wow.

Our first beach sticker arrived! We ordered by mail and it was made very easy with online directions at the City website and the application can be found here: 2019 Beach Sticker Mail In Application  See you on the beach!

Setting traps recently in Folly Cove

We are blessed with beautiful color in our backyard. Our favorite colorful couples:

Recent egret adventures yielded some neat glimpses into their habits.

Snacking on bugs and fish:

Graceful flight:

Ruffled feathers:

I finally had a good excuse to go into Fireflies on Main Street: a brand new baby in my life! I’ve long been intrigued as I window shopped this neat little spot and was excited for the opportunity to go in with the purpose of buying a gift. What a lovely place! Good variety of items for special gift occasions, many designed and produced locally. I took the local vendors as a huge bonus; I did not realize so many locals had produced items for this shop. My purchase was carefully packed up so it was ready to be presented to newborn George. Thanks, Fireflies!

Good news to share now that summer has officially arrived. The Village Restaurant in Essex Open Monday’s for the summer.

I have noticed some very interesting looking barns along the Essex Scenic Byway. I love barns that seem to tell their own story. The spring light certainly helps! As our friend Donna Ardizzoni says: it’s all about the light. She inspired me to experiment with softening photos.

Sights from my morning walk. I just love spring on the water!

I have recently observed at least two small fuzzy bobbing heads in our backyard hawk nest. It’s very hard to get a decent photo since the trees have begun to leaf out, but here’s one. Look carefully to the left of the watchful parent:

I will keep watching and sharing!

The flags are back and looking great! Enjoy your Memorial Day weekend.

Sunny scenes from Stage Fort Park this week. I just love this park!

A sure sign Summer will be upon us soon: Topside outdoor seating is available!

The new Last Stop is open for business and looking good! None of the staff was willing to be included in the pictures, but it really is staffed with some very nice people. They will strive to offer healthful food and snacks. I also noted a few beach supplies available in an appropriately named Last Stop on the way to sand and surf.

Sure was nice to see the Ardelle back out on the water again. Summer must be coming soon!

Are you ready for the roadwork on Bass Ave this week from the lights to Hartz Street? Prep your patience and brake pads for detours and then one lane traffic later in the week. Here’s the link for more detailed information from the City: Gloucester News.

The Gloucester HS field hockey team is holding a plant sale today until 1 PM as a fundraiser. They also have T shirts for sale and you may see GMG Jimmy around town in one.

If you can’t make it down there, donations can be sent c/o Coach Lauren Riley-Gore 42 Dennison St. Gloucester MA 01930.

I know other plant sales are occurring today, but try to stop by and give this team some support too. Captains Cate Delaney and Mia Salah with Coach Riley-Gore:

Gloucester Station Coast Guard is hosting an event today on Harbor Loop 10 am – 2 pm which will feature signal flare demos, live helicopter search and rescue, live music, search and rescue boat tours, K9 demos, Beverly dive team, free lunch, as well as other health and safety information. Sounds like it’s going to be a great day, so stop down to check it out.

I did not realize Windward Grille in Essex was open for lunch so I was happy to give it a try based on the recommendation of my aunt. I was a little surprised at how busy it was on for a weekday lunchtime (I love that retirement allows us to do this!), but I took it as a good omen.

My Texas burger was the size of a certain large southern state and it was delicious:

GMG Jimmy got a pastrami sandwich and sweet potato fries:

My dessert was a Windward coffee….mmmmm……Another place to add to our lunch options!