Midwest Blues

Well, it's snowing outside - what happened to the warm weather? It's a day for daydreaming and wishing I was somewhere else today. So I'm thinking of the beach, sunshine, leisurely walks and a good book while getting a little tan trying to shrug off the Midwest blues.

I'll say it again, this is the hardest season for me to get through in the Midwest. Last weekend I was working in the yard and getting excited about the prospect of being outside more and then the temperatures dropped significantly - major storm last night and today it's snowing! What's a California girl to do?

I think about my favorite warm escapes and use the time to clean closets, removing clothes I know I won't wear anymore, rearrange furniture and accessories to make everything look new again. And, when I go to the grocery I always pick up fresh flowers to brighten my indoor spaces.

What do you do to get through the temper mental Spring weather?

Note: picture was taken on the Outer Banks, Southern Shores

Daydreaming

We've had such incredible weather this August and today I was relaxing in my Adirondack chair which is on my own private beach. With the nice cool breeze I couldn't help but daydream.

And, the first thing that came to mind was our many vacations in Maine. We would drop off our son at Audubon Camp at Hog Island, Maine for a few weeks and then explore the east coast before picking him up. This particular daydream was about our trip to Monhegan Island. We drove to New Harbor looking for Shaw's Wharf where we would catch a boat to the island. It's about 10 miles from the mainland and you can only get there by boat. When we approached the island, It was so picturesque. The hotel we were going to be staying in was on the hill looking out at the ocean. I couldn't wait to get off the boat.

This was summer, so all those lobster traps are not used on this island until winter. It was interesting to see them all over this little town stacked high just waiting for their time.

The island was easy to explore as I don't think it's more than 1 square mile. Their were easy trails to take you along the coastline and the views were spectacular! One of my favorite things was this small beach that had so much sea glass and broken china - all treasures waiting to be plucked up. Those treasures are now on my beach to remind me of this slice of paradise.

It isn't surprising that this little island is home to many artists as well as fisherman. It is truly unique. Hiking trails, beach, lighthouse and incredible views is whatever is on my mind today...