Author: Pat D

Given the history of close ties between Nova Scotia and Gloucester, I was expecting my trip to Nova Scotia to remind me a great deal of home. And, in some very basic ways, it does

But in other ways, it’s like we stepped into a different world all together

Fog grants special beauty to the harbor.

Caught up with Mr. Swan recently on the ocean side of Niles Pond. He was cleaning, preening and generally behaving as though he rules the roost.

Main Street Antiques in Essex is selling mums for $5 as a fund raiser to allow mums to be displayed at Essex businesses this fall.  There are lots to choose from in several colors. They appear to be healthy and it seems like a very good deal to me, especially as a fund raiser.

The dark and rainy morning has put me in a reflective mood.  Given the historic damage done by Hurricane Florence and the uncertainty following the gas disaster in Andover and Lawrence, my mind turns to other monumental disasters.  One hundred years ago the Flu Pandemic reached into Gloucester and the surrounding areas.  Each day in late September and through mid October, the newspaper reported on the growing number of flu deaths.  While I do not know the final numbers, the highest number I saw reported was 180 people within about month as of October 14 1918. It must have been very frightening for all but it seems the city handled the pandemic admirably.

This is an example from the Gloucester Daily Times Sept 17 1918 of the precautions taken.  The microfilm quality isn’t great, but it gets the idea across.

As we see from Florence and in Andover/Lawrence, disasters tend to bring out the best in people and I imagine this did the same at the time.  Disasters past and present remind us to be kind, take good care and stay vigilant.

It seems I see something new in the harbor everyday.  New to me, at least. Love this concept.

GMG Jimmy re-lived a part of his youth Sunday afternoon at the Fish Box Derby.  He just had to take some shots and I thought you might enjoy them.  The Children did a great job and were surrounded by lots of support from family and community.  We saw our friends Donna Ardizonni and Dave Fernandes there also taking pictures and I look forward to seeing those as well.

We took our visitors around on a recent foggy day to the Annisquam Lighthouse.   It was pretty and sunny at the lighthouse but the fog lurked out there waiting…….. and it makes a subtle appearance as the lighthouse blared its warning.

It looks almost out of focus, but the fog gives it a nice soft look.

We had lunch at the “new” Pier 23 recently. Contrary to expectation, we each ordered a wrap. Stuffed with real chicken chunks, accompanied by strips of bacon….and the chipotle mayo was more chipotle than mayo which I loved. Friendly service, steady customer stream, varied menu…..we’ll be back!

I thought I was going to get some cool kite flying shots when I drove by Good Harbor Beach one recent windy morning.  Instead I found this adventure-seeker.

I guess you have to expect this to happen once in a while:

We stumbled upon the Mother of Grace Club’s annual celebration last weekend and found it delightful. I understand their motto is Pray for Peace and that the members direct their prayers to keep our military safe from harm. As I do not speak Italian, I could not understand most of what was being said during this part of the celebration, but I can attest to the sincerity and beauty of the celebration.

Awaiting the return of the procession:

Escorting Blessed Mother of Grace on her birthday:

Young and old alike participated:

Re-placing the statue with great care and reverence:

Celebrating:

Singing the special song:

Joyous celebration enjoyed by all.

The beauty of this scene sent me back to the books to refresh my memory of the mythological story of Arethusa, a Greek myth of transformation into water.  This picture seems to demonstrate that very transformation from vessel to reflection to seawater.

September 11 2001 is a day many of us will never forget.  It was a pivotal turning point in our shared history, much like the JFK assassination was for those of an earlier generation. But, since 17 years  have now gone by, this means students currently in high schools and even college have no memories of that day.  Perhaps that is a blessing, as the images are cruel and devastating. The tragedy and the resulting impacts changed daily life forever. We are divided by those who recall federal buildings lacking concrete barriers and airplane travel without pat-downs and those who have never known anything else.

But, we must NEVER forget the lives lost and changed on that fateful day.  Pause a moment in your busy lives to remember, pray,  or share a story.  A remembrance ceremony is scheduled for at City Hall this morning at 9 AM, followed by a gathering at the Fire Department on School Street.

Sometimes when you have a glass jar full of candies…….

your eye is drawn directly to the pretty red one in the middle.

I am fascinated by the camouflage techniques Mother Nature has granted to the creatures in our backyards. You just need to take the time and let them reveal themselves to you.

One recent humid day, I decided to go out to Halibut Point for a visit.  I had not been there in a while and my heart was aching a bit for the majestic vista at the end of the trail. I was very surprised and secretly grateful to see I was one of only a few cars in the parking lot.

Unfortunately the path was littered with the remains of inconsiderate pet owners but I was looking forward to the view and the breeze that awaited me ahead.

A sight for sore eyes, but onwards toward the ocean breeze.

AHHHH. A cooler breeze, amazing view, time to contemplate.

The lighthouse and visitors center is being renovated, but the restoration of body and soul was well worth the price of parking. I recommend a visit. Perhaps I’ll see you there!

Looks like fun!

This sounds like a great event! Here’s the link for tickets and more info:  http://shop.historicnewengland.org/COG-LIPIZZAN-MTX-A-8185/

I’ll admit these startled me a little at first, so I guess they are doing their job.

They even have intimidating claws!

My sister was here visiting recently, and we found ourselves admiring the beauty of Our Lady of Good Voyage church.  As we were getting into the car intending to hunt for some sunset photos, a gentleman approached us to offer to share his view of Gloucester harbor at sunset.  We gave it careful consideration and took him up on his generous offer.

Our new friend, Bob, was not kidding around about the spectacular view. Although the sunset that evening was hazy, his hospitality was anything but! Our hesitance was rewarded with great conversation and new friendship.  It’s always wonderful to meet new people and share stories.  Thank you Bob for sharing your home and mostly for just being a nice guy!  I hope we meet again.