Birds @ the Beach

First day at the beach we were joined by this Sandpiper who was obviously on a leave of absence from the Sandpiper Inn in Union Pier, Michigan. We tied a message to his leg sending our greetings to all of our friends on the Great Lake.

Pelicans are really amazing creatures and smart enough to perch next to the bait shop in case any fishermen get careless. Across the water is a glimpse of another house that I wish I owned, viewed from my favorite table at my favorite restaurant, while eating a seared tuna sandwich with a glass of chardonnay. The wine was nothing great, but the sandwich sure was. Had to come back the next day just to make sure. Still was.

This pelican is the best-looking mailbox on our street. Still not too far from the beach, and a flock of his friends flies over every day. Who knows? Maybe one day he'll join them.

O Christmas Tree

Merry Christmas to all of our friends from Ann Arbor to New Zealand.

We're Not in New Zealand Anymore, Toto

Ya know everything is bigger and better in Texas............. I could tell you that this is our beach house, but..........it's not. However, it is just down the beach from us next to a very popular fishing access.

You might notice that I am wearing fewer clothes .......85 degrees here in Galveston....on the beach, and yes! I have been in the water - up to my ankles. The surfer dudes are wearing wet suits. Pansies! Observe the tire tracks on the sand......don't wanna go no place in the Lone Star State without that uber pickup truck.

Yep! The sun still sets in Texas. Unfortunately, it reminds us how far we are from NZ and the world's cutest grand sun.

Hei Kona ra Aotearoa

What is greater than a day at the beach? Sun and sand and shovels and pails and the world's busiest tot to keep one distracted. What seemed like a long sojourn looking ahead in May is more like a mere day trip, looking back. There's still too much to see......too much to do. And can you believe ...........no one even mentions how courageous I am to wear the M out in public.

Just when you think that sunsets couldn't possibly be more spectacular..... they are. And after several days of lively winds, the sea was very calm today with people taking advantage of the fine weather and splashing around in the water during low tide. Really hot and muggy for the first time. I know. I know. You're enjoying the ice and snow. Did I mention that we had an earth quake at 1am?

So we bid farewell to New Zealand and its beauty and head for LA and the U S of A.

1-2.......Buckle My Shoe

One - two.......buckle my shoe, Nenah.
Three - four, close the door.
Five -six, pick up sticks.
Seven - eight, lay them straight.
Nine - ten, start again.

Yep. We're doing it all, and now I know the real meaning of that nursery rhyme. Moi and the world's most spoiled grandchild (note the shirt) are very busy in the garden. He's very happy bouncing around in his new sandals. I'm just happy I can still get down that close to the ground.

A windy, grey day......but look - we're not wearing jackets! I'm sure that you are bundled up in Ann Arbor. Thank goodness for the Waterfront bistro with its fish & chips and great view of Kapiti Island. Gurnard was the fish of the day, but there weren't any fishing boats going out today. Too windy.......even the seagulls were hunkered down into the sand. Notice my new shoes - silver (trendy here). Unfortunately, my ones from my favorite shop in AA couldn't survive the sand and sea.

And these are the shoes I wish I had bought. This pair was purchased on Cuba Street in Wellington, but they're actually from Chicago...........doing what they can to help the trade deficit.

Coincidentally, I'm reading Snow Flower and the Secret Fan which includes details about the custom of binding young girls' feet in China. Talk about shoes that pinch your toes......what about bindings that break your toes? I'd rather be barefoot on the beach.

December Too Soon

The bird of paradise plants are in bloom.

24 days untilChristmas.

10 until departure.