Monday, December 31st, cloudy: It's 36 damp and gray degrees on my back porch at 7:15 this morning.  It's still fairly dark out there, a result of the cloud clover which will be with us much of the day.  It will be breezy also with a high in the low 50's.  Chances for celestial observation tonight are too close to call.

I have a theory, based on years of empirical observation and anecdotal evidence related from others.  It is impossible to consume all of the Christmas turkey.  This year we had a pretty small turkey here.  Still, we have had the full Christmas repast, a full rerun of that meal, turkey sandwiches, and turkey stew or hash.  There is still a large container of that left for lunches and a fair amount of meat left on the carcass, which is waiting to be cooked into stock for soup.  Through some nefarious miracle, the turkey lingers and lingers in its various guises and disguises and I'll probably have cubes of turkey broth in my freezer for months.  (In fact there are some up there now, I think, from another everlasting turkey.)  One does not buy a turkey for Christmas dinner, one introduces it into one's life.

On this last day of 2001, I leave it to the pundits to analyze, review, and spin this year's events.  The analyses have already begun and there will be many more in these next two days.  I will say only that this year which has been indelibly marked with war, death, and sorrow, is coming to a close. Like every year's end, the event is just the flip of a calendar page, one day like all the others.  Psychologically, though, it's a closure and a beginning.  2001 will not be forgotten, but I hope that what we take from it into 2002 is something positive, personally and nationally.

So, we close out another year on the back porch.  He Who Must Play Tennis and I will look for the moon, Jupiter and Saturn at midnight, weather permitting, and count them as auguries for a Happy New Year.  Grandma and Molly and Zoë will no doubt already be nestled in their beds. Add our good wishes to you for a Happy New Year and we'll see you tomorrow! 

With apologies:

On the seventh day of Christmas, my true love gave to me
Seven raccoons raiding,
Six egrets roosting,
Five white-tailed deer!
Four raucous grackles,
Three perfect shells,
Two hummingbirds,
And a wren chirping in a live oak tree.

Sunday, December 30th, cooler again: It's 42 gray degrees on my back porch at 7:45 this morning.  It's a bit overcast and the pines and palmettos are dancing, especially along the marsh edge.  The mild respite is past, it would seem, as the wind shifts back around to the north and the cooler weather travels south.  Mixed sun and clouds today with a high in the low to mid-50's  Low tonight near freezing away from the coast.

The setting sun and rising moon conspired last evening to create a sharp-intake-of-breath kind of moment.  Crossing the causeway coming back to island around 5:45, I drove between the bright streaks left by the sun in the western sky and a bright full moon quarter-high in the east.  It's one of those times when I really feel that I am on a planet that is part of a solar system.  At night, when the planets and stars and satellites are visible in their myriads, the sky, though beautiful, is so filled with other bodies that I see it as a whole--a carpet of stars--rather than individual celestial objects.  It's the night sky and it cloaks the earth and I can pick out planets and stars, but my mind places it over me rather than me within it.

Last evening, though, I was crossing the marsh with full view of the sky but still with clear view of my surroundings, and there was a sun and the moon in a still-light sky and I could sense myself spatially between them.  It was an unusual feeling and sense of place, but not altogether an inappropriate platform from which to view this passing year.

There will be more celestial interest tomorrow night as the moon is full and Jupiter is very close to the earth.  At midnight, they should both be nearly directly overhead, and if the weather cooperates, we should all be treated to another chance to place ourselves within universal context.

With apologies:

On the sixth day of Christmas, my true love gave to me
Six egrets roosting,
Five white-tailed deer!
Four raucous grackles,
Three perfect shells,
Two hummingbirds,
And a wren chirping in a live oak tree.

Saturday, December 29th, mild: It's 50 degrees on my back porch at 7:15 this morning, overcast but still.  There will be clouds mixed with the sunshine today and a high in the mid-60's.  Not an altogether unpleasant day, I should think!

It's Saturday in a very unpatterned week that has had a couple of Mondays and what seemed like a lot of Thursdays in it.  I somehow lost the notion of "Friday" completely.  A strange week.

This will be another travel weekend for many, unless, of course, you are in Buffalo, in which case just venturing to the end of the driveway will be arduous!  If you are a traveler, go gently.

With apologies:

On the fifth day of Christmas, my true love gave to me
Five white-tailed deer!
Four raucous grackles,
Three perfect shells,
Two hummingbirds,
And a wren chirping in a live oak tree.

Friday, December 28th, a bit warmer: It's 40 degrees on my back porch at 7:15 this morning.  There's a light pink blush in the sky this morning rather than the gray overcast we have had most recently.  It didn't last long, fading as I type, but a nice touch of color while it lasted.  We should see a little bit of a warm-up today, not balmy by any means, but around 60 by afternoon.  The wind has switched to the south and subsided a bit.

The sunset last night was another brief blast of color.  It was confined to the western skies but was an intense technicolor display of a full palette of pinks and corals.  Some days there are advantages to being on the road traveling home in the evening!

There are lots of families visiting on Kiawah and Seabrook this holiday as well as many out-of-town property owners here for a few days.  It's great to see folks on a recurring basis over the years and I begin to look for them.  There's a comforting stability in encountering the expected, especially this year which has been branded with so much that was unexpected, even unimaginable.

With apologies:

On the fourth day of Christmas, my true love gave to me
Four raucous grackles,
Three perfect shells,
Two hummingbirds,
And a wren chirping in a live oak tree.

Thursday, December 27th, winter arrives! It's 34 chattery degrees on my back porch at 7:15 this morning.  The day is waking out of a very chilly night, at least for these parts.  It's below freezing in town, a state we are spared by the warmer ocean waters.  Still we covered a couple of outside plants last night just in case.  The breeze will continue today and the temperature will actually be a couple of degrees warmer than yesterday, around 54.

From record high temps to record low in a matter of a few days.  Don't I recall that the weather prognosticators had all agreed that without the El Nino/La Nina phenomena we would have a more "normal" winter? Perhaps this IS normal and I've just forgotten.  In any case, it was certainly a change to walk out onto the porch this morning and to breathe in the frosty air.  I notice that the two cats did not find the frosty footboards a particular treat, however.

With apologies:

On the third day of Christmas, my true love gave to me
Three perfect shells,
Two hummingbirds,
And a wren chirping in a live oak tree.

Wednesday, December 26th, Boxing Day: It's 40 degrees on my back porch at 7:15 this morning.  The sky is clearing of its morning gray and we have promise of bright sunshine.  The brisk breeze out of the west will keep temps down though, probably in the neighborhood of 50.

I would like to take a bike ride this morning, but the brisk breeze and cool temps make me change my mind, at least temporarily. There's nothing like a day of Christmas food to make one look forward to salad and exercise!  The traditional fare was tasty, though, and we have enough leftovers for straight and disguised reruns.

For the former British Commonwealth parts of the world, it's Boxing Day today, a day all about gifts and visits and friends and neighbors.  Here in this country, we also have a "boxing day" of sorts--boxes of well-intentioned but just-off-the-mark gifts are returned to stores and new boxes of look-what-I-got-at-a-great-price stuff is brought home.  Maybe it's more of a "bagging day' here!  It's hard to imagine there could be more sale merchandise in the stores today than there was last weekend, though.

With apologies:

On the second day of Christmas, my true love gave to me
Two hummingbirds
And a wren chirping in a live oak tree.

Tuesday, December 25th, Merry Christmas! It's 38 Christmasy degrees on my back porch at 7:45 this morning.  It's a bit gray but not raining.  It's definitely cool enough for a Christmas morning fire in the fireplace and He Who Must Play Tennis is about that business as I type.  It will be a mixed cloudy/sunny day with a high in the low to mid-50's.  Perfect for Christmas sweaters and not too bad for trying out the Christmas bikes and skates.

Molly and Zoë have had much fun with their catnip mice, but they are old hat now and it's back to the occasional roll and tumble in the hallway.  We did see Molly knock the phone off the hook this morning and are concerned that she may have set up a feline advisory line or is making calls to kin in Italy!  The receiver removal was very deftly done.

Not many of our family will be able to be here for the holidays this year, but my Mom made it down from Virginia and HWMPT's Mom lives nearby now, so we will have a small family gathering this morning.  With the fire, a few decorations, a bit of music and a bit of family, it's Christmas.  Hope yours is very happy!

With apologies:

On the first day of Christmas, my true love gave to me
A wren chirping in a live oak tree.

Monday, December 24th, definitely not a white Christmas: It's 60 degrees on my back porch at 7:15 this morning.  There's an overcast and a moderate to strong breeze.  Clouds should clear, sun should appear and the temperature should near 60.  Santa will need his sand runners for his stops on Kiawah.

We neither had the rain we had been led to expect nor the dip in temperature yet. In fact, yesterday was quite lovely and mild.  Tennis was played, moldy mice were baked, and a few touches of the holiday have graced the home.  Zoë is entranced as usual by all the ribbons and bows and makes many trips past the presents, stopping to sample a few favorites.  Molly hasn't paid them much mind this year at all.

All of us here--Yours Truly, He Who Must Play Tennis, Molly, Zoë, and the elf--wish all of you a very happy holiday.  I hope it involves family and friends, music and laughter, good food and all the things you asked for under the tree.  Most of all, I hope you have a few moments to sit in peaceful quiet and savor the day.  Merry Christmas!

Sunday, December 23rd, cloudy: It's 54 degrees on my back porch at 8:45 this morning and overcast.  There's a pretty good chance we will have showers during the day and they will continue tomorrow.  Cooler temps are on tap, also, so check the firewood supply.  The high today will be in the low 60's and it takes a moderate dive from there.

He Who Must Play Tennis hopes that the showers will hold off until after his midday tennis game.  If not, all those sweet potato/buckwheat pancakes he has made and consumed this morning will have been for naught!

It's moldy mice day here in the kitchen as we will prepare a herd of them for the store's Christmas party tomorrow.  Everybody gets into the act, even my mom, who is the chief sugarer.

Many thanks to the elf who visited kiawahchats and put up decorations.  I may have to leave the computer on and the site up on a strategic location--it's the closest thing we have to holiday decorations here yet!  Even the cats are beginning to look askance at me!  But first, it's the mice...

Friday, December 21st, sunny, cool: It's 40 degrees on my back porch at 7:00 this morning.  The sky looks clear already and the breeze is light at the moment.  Sunshine today with a high around 60--a pleasant day after a cool start.

A loyal reader asked about the progress on the new gatehouse at the main entrance.  Thus far we have some decorative orange mesh fencing and a cleared, bare area of dirt just inside the location of the present gate.  It would appear that's about as far as construction will progress until after the holidays.

Thursday, December 20th, breezy and cool: It's 48 degrees on my back porch at 7:00 this morning, a bit overcast yet and breezy.  We should have lots of bright, albeit cool sunshine today, and if you can find some shelter from the wind, it should be pleasant.  The NW wind will get your attention though!  High in the low 60's.

It's actually cool in the house this morning.  Both Molly and Zoë made trips onto the bed for an early snuggle, although I would suspect they spent a good bit of time on Grandma's bed--it's neutral territory as she hasn't been fully "claimed" yet.

Wednesday, December 19th, cooler: It's 48 decidedly cooler degrees on my back porch at 6:30 this morning, still dark and quite still.  There's a different sound in the air--heat pumps!  Much too early for the birds yet.  High today will be around 60.  Haul out those holidays woolens!

We've had one reader comment on favorite holiday song:  Adeste Fideles, for its majesty.  Can't argue with that.

I'm up early to get a running start on another full day.  Both Molly and Zoë are excited to have early company but are blinking a bit more than usual and I am sure will be back in bed before this report is saved.  Hope all our preparations are proceeding.  The cooler weather here should put a bit more of the holiday feel in the air, I would imagine.

Tuesday, December 18th, mostly sunny: It's 60 degrees on my back porch at 7:00 this morning, still dark and quite breezy.  There's a wren out there singing, though!  She must be bouncing about on her perch unless it's on one of the study oak limbs.  Mostly sunny today and a high near 70.

Last year this time, if you recall, we had already had some very cool weather.  The golf course grasses were brown and Christmas sweaters were actually needed.  Thus far, the courses are still lush green and wearing a decorative holiday tog is a conscious decision and calculated risk.  A hint of crispness would be wonderful.

One week.

Monday, December 17th, showers? It's 56 degrees on my back porch at 7:15 this morning.  The rising run is lighting what appears to be a slightly overcast sky.  We are told to expect a mix of sun and clouds and perhaps a few showers.  High in the low 70's.

My Mom arrived for the holidays yesterday.  You can tell she's become an old hand at holidays at our house now.  Her eyes didn't widen at all in disbelief at the lack of any sign of Christmas in or around the abode--not even a wreath yet.  (Should I tell her that the autumn wreath was installed only a couple of weeks ago?)  Anyway, now she knows she arrives in time to be a full partner in the fray and gallop.  She doesn't panic any more and drop little hints like, "Why look, it's the 22nd already!"  It's only the 17th.  I have a whole week yet!

Sunday, December 16th, mixed: It's 58 sunny degrees on my back porch at 8:45 this morning.  There's some high cloud cover this morning and there will be a few clouds now and again today to mix with the sunshine.  High in the mid-60's.

Amongst all the holiday music we hear this time of year everywhere, I always listen for my favorite, "In the Bleak Midwinter."  It's relatively new, in a noel/carol sense, but still very traditional.  I find myself humming it a lot and I've tried to figure out why I like it so much.  Like so many things that are our "favorites," it's all tied up with past and tradition.

First of all, it's an English carol, words by Christina Rosetti and a very English music style.  That meshes pretty much with the very British Isles sort of Christmas that most of us have been brought up with--holly and greenery and candles and the notion of a cold, barren winter landscape.

Second, the words strongly evoke that cold winter landscape and even though I grew up in a more temperate climate, my Christmas memories have the smell of a coal fire wafting through them, especially from the coal stove at my grandparents' house in Manteo.  If you want to picture a barren winter landscape, picture the Outer Banks in December 50 years ago.

Third, we lived in England for a few years and all the Christmas traditions were in full life, real time there--chestnuts, frozen ground, coal smoke, holly, ivy, carols, crackers, the works. We heard "In the Bleak Midwinter" sung in a very old candlelit cathedral.  And it was Christmas.

In the bleak midwinter,
Frosty wind made moan.
Earth stood hard as iron,
Water like a stone.
Snow had fallen, snow on snow,
Snow upon snow.
In the bleak midwinter,
Long, long ago.

What can I give him
Poor as I am?
If I were a shepherd,
I would bring a lamb.
If I were a wise man,
I would do my part.
But what I can I give him,
Give my heart.

What's your favorite holiday song?  Why?

Saturday, December 15th, clouds continuing: It's 62  degrees on my back porch at 7:00 this morning.  The sky is cloudy and the morning light is faint again.  It's also very quiet out there.  Clouds will be the dominant feature today with the temps a tad cooler, near 70.

Unfortunately, there was no viewing of the eclipse here yesterday.  By late afternoon, the fog was once more in charge of the marsh landscape.  Still beautiful, but a glimpse of a partially eclipsed setting sun would have been nice also.

The girls are in a testy mode again with voluble "discussions" bedside in the early morning hours.  Perhaps the arrival of a Christmas tree will calm them since they both love having the tree set up and spend lots of time underneath it.  I wonder when Santa's elves will arrive because right now, that's their best hope! 

 Friday, December 14th, warmer: It's 63 gray degrees on my back porch at 7:25 this morning.  (Unfortunately, the website wasn't accessible then, so this report is being posted at 4:30 PM. Sorry.) It's drippy out there, but I don't know if it's actually raindrops or just the fog coalescing and falling.  The southerly breeze will continue moderately strong again today and there will be clouds off and on with a high in the mid-70's.

There's partial solar eclipse this evening. If there are no clouds it could be an interesting sight.  In our area it begins at 4:13 PM and the sun will set just before maximum occlusion.  That means that the sun will be low in the sky, beautifully visible over the river and marsh, and not so bright that you can't see it.  Let's hope for clear skies late this afternoon!  You can find info on the Internet about viewing time in your area.

The fog yesterday afternoon was beautiful over the marsh and the island. There is something nearly magical about fog and the beach or fog over large open spaces.

Thursday, December 13th: It's 62 degrees on my back porch at 7:20 this morning, a bit foggy and gray.  The wind has switched back to the south bringing warmer temperatures, in the mid-70's today.  It is also likely to be just a bit on the clammy, muggy side since there's lots of moisture already around and the fog will add a bit more.

Our antlered friend was standing guard over "his" lagoon again last night, a surprising sight as the headlights swept along the edges as I turned in.  He really is handsome and very much "in charge" this year.  There was also lots of raccoon activity, as I spotted three of the rascals just at our cul-de-sac, one loping into the shadows in that very rolling gait they have and the  other two waiting for me to pass on by.

Wednesday, December 12th, clouds:  It's 62 degrees on my back porch at 7:20 this morning, cloudy with slightly less breeze than yesterday.  Clouds will be prominent again today but little chance of rain and a high near 70.

The rain and wind of the past couple of days have stripped many of the remaining leaves from the deciduous trees and almost overnight we moved into another seasonal look.  There's still plenty of green considering the preponderance of pines, hollies, cedars, live oaks and magnolias, but bare tree branches punctuate the greenness now for a few months.

Tuesday, December 11th, cloudy:  It's 56 degrees on my back porch at 7:20 this morning, cloudy and breezy.  Clouds throughout the day with a high in the mid-60's.  There's a possibility of showers.

We had quite a bit of rain yesterday afternoon, including some very heavy showers that created quite a puddle in front of the shop's door.  We are considering several options, including bridges, pontoons and stepping stones.  Or we could just pretend it's our own version of Venice's Aqua Alta.

Monday, December 10th, rain likely:  It's 56 degrees on my back porch at 8:00 this morning and looking a bit more seasonable out there.  It's gray and overcast, quite blustery with a moderate to strong breeze out of the NE.  Rain is a good possibility today.

Must run this morning and will be back to chat later. 

Sunday, December 9th, mostly sunny:  It's 66 degrees on my back porch at 8:40 this morning.  He Who Must Play Tennis reports that his stroll down the driveway to pick up the newspaper was very pleasant with a gentle, slightly warm breeze stirring the air.  We will be sunny most of the day with a few clouds possible and a continuing breeze.  High around 70.

It rained last evening!  What a surprise to see, hear, and smell it--and to drive on wet roads for a change!.  It didn't rain much, though, and I am sure there was very little to soak into the ground.  But it was nice while it lasted.

Late last night we turned off the KI Parkway and there at lagoon-side was an antlered stag and a doe nearby.  They looked at us --somewhat in disbelief, I think, that there was anyone out and about around midnight.  I'm sure they usually have the island completely to themselves at that time!  We stopped and admired, then let them cross the road in front of us and move along to the quieter reaches of the golf course.

Saturday, December 8th, a few clouds:  It's 60 degrees on my back porch at 7:40 this morning.  The sun is shining and it is nearly still out there.  There are a few chirpy, twittery birds waking up and catching up on the day's gossip and plans.  Should be another nice one, in the mid-70's with a few clouds here and there.

The recent warm weather notwithstanding, the cats think that winter is going to make an appearance.  Both girls' coats have assumed their winter fluffiness and Zoë's ruff is quite apparent now.  Interesting that even though they are indoor cats, they still go through such seasonal changes.

The recent warm sunny days have actually warmed the surrounding waters a bit.  It's readily noticeable at night when the fog forms over the warm water and lies low over the sun-warmed land.  Last night as we returned from town, the fog over the Stono was thick and low enough to create a feeling of detachment as we eased into it from the James Island marsh, crossed the bridge meeting a few haloed car lights heading the other way, and then rolled out of the fog back to the clear darkness on Johns Island.  Not thick enough to be hazardous, but enough to create a briefly changed world.

Friday, December 7th, warm:  It's 60 degrees on my back porch at 7:05 this morning, overcast and still.  There's likely to be a mix of sun and clouds today with the high still in the upper 70's.

The Olympic flame passed through Charleston last night.  We were at a CSO/CSOC rehearsal for this weekend's performance of The Messiah when Kathleen Wilson appeared with one of the torches.  You may remember that Kathleen is the CSO harpist who earlier this year swam the English Channel.  She had been one of the flame carriers and was close by the auditorium and thought we would like to see the torch.  It was a one-of-a-kind interruption!

 By the way, if you are in town this weekend and would like to hear a performance of the Messiah with a smaller Baroque orchestra and mid-size chorus, there are still tickets available at the Gaillard for Saturday's concert.  It will be from an edition of the oratorio closer to Handel's original version without some of the later "improvements." Those of us who have sung the work several times have to watch very closely so we don't sing the "familiar" rather than the written in a few places. 

Thursday, December 6th, warm:  It's 60 degrees on my back porch at 7:05 this morning and a bit darker as there appears to be a heavier overcast this morning.  Clouds are not supposed to be prominent feature of the day, however, and the temp will rise to nearly 80 degrees.

A friendly face greeted me in the driveway as I returned last night.  Peculiar that a masked visage could also be so cute.  The raccoon thought briefly about standing his ground against my car,  stood up on his hind legs and measured his odds.  He thought better of it, though, and with a valedictory look back over his shoulder, he moved off the driveway and into the myrtles.  I know they can be pesky and destructive, but they are still appealing little critters, in no small part because of their cleverness.

He Who Must Play Tennis has become our resident shop network expert.  The last workstation went up last night without a glitch, he diagnosed and fixed a transmission problem, and he reprogrammed the function keys so that they perform the functions one would have reason to expect.  Of course, we still have a few "unexplainables," those occurrences that tech advisors say that they have never heard of before, and we have solved a few by methods that the same tech advisors say shouldn't work that way.  All part of the "magic" of computers!

Wednesday, December 5th, warm again:  It's 57 degrees on my back porch at 7:10 this morning.  The sky looks like it will clear quickly of the morning overcast and we will warm into the mid- to upper 70's today.  Open doors and windows again.

Yesterday's absence was the result of computer contrariness, which seems to be rampant this week.  He Who Must Play Tennis got the computers successfully moved to the new location and up and running pretty quickly.  Then we started adding the new stations to the network.  "Most" of the instructions had bent sent with the equipment and software--except for a few programming changes and some switches that are supposed to be flipped.  And there seemed to be a variance between cable and connectors too.  Anyway, we are closer--just a few awkward system freezes now and again and a lack of one of the transmission utilities.  So when THIS computer started to balk, I did what I CAN'T do at work--I turned it off and walked away!

If you haven't watched or heard the news or read the paper and had any plans to drive down Meeting Street today south of Market, don't.  A broken water pipe has created a huge hole in the street.  Just when King Street was getting back to normal, too!

Monday, December 3rd, cooler:  It's 54 degrees on my back porch at 7:10 this morning, slightly overcast with a light breeze.  The breeze is out of the NE so it is cooler and less muggy.  Ahhhh!  High today around 70.

The birds are back and singing again this morning too, so it sounds a lot more like my back porch!

The moon last night was two days past full, only slightly past completely round.  In the early evening it rose, a slight salmon/gold tinge to its color, a soft light over the marsh as I returned home  It was just skimming the treetops by that time, not a brilliant light yet, but enough to see a lovely young doe standing along the side of the road as I turned in.  She stood still and quiet, not moving at all as I stopped the car, lowered the window and greeted her.  She blinked, twitched her ears, and went back to grazing as I rolled on toward home.  A gentle evening.

Do you have your running shoes on?  The gallop towards the holidays has begun!  I'm considering roller blades this year.

Saturday, December 1st, continued warm:  It's 66 degrees on my back porch at 7:15 this morning, slightly overcast, muggy and nearly still..  It's silent on my porch.  I hear not one bird nor the ocean nor a heat pump anywhere.  Strange.  High today AGAIN in the upper 70's.  I am officially tired of muggy, warm days--for the time being.  A little cool crispness would be really welcomed and there should be a little cool air headed our way tonight.

Move recovery continues as we try to find boxes and bits and get everything stowed or at least stashed.  He Who Must Play Tennis and I have moved MANY times in the past--it really doesn't become any easier.  We've just become more realistic!  And we have found that just after each move, we know exactly how it SHOULD have been done!

Anyway, we hope that this afternoon, folks will stop by for a wee celebration and help us enjoy our new space.  That will be fun and get everything off to a good start.

Where are the birds this morning?  The doors and windows are open and I still have heard not the first peep, chirp or chatter.  I would suspect my hearing except that I could hear quite clearly Molly's complaints that we were not getting up quite fast enough to suit her.

Friday, November 30th, continued warm:  It's 64 degrees on my back porch at 7:15 this morning.  The sky was dotted with beautiful pink puffy clouds for a brief time early this morning.  The color has faded and it's mostly clear with a noticeable breeze blowing. High today in the upper 70's.

We are opening for business in the new location today.  There's still a bit to do to clear out the old space and to get everything settled and functioning in the new one, but we are there!  The store was a true beehive of activity yesterday as many wonderful friends and customers arrived to pack and move and unpack and arrange.  It was amazing and just a bit humbling.  It sort of felt like a barn-raising must have felt!  So, we are tired, excited and very pleased--but mainly tired right now!

Thursday, November 29th, continued warm:  It's 58 degrees on my back porch at 7:15 this morning.  The sun is just beginning to shine and it's still and quiet.  It's very peaceful and calming, something that is quite welcome this morning!  High today again around 80, with perhaps a few more clouds.

We are neither out of the old shop nor in the new one yet but very definitely someplace in between.  With the aid and support of some terrific customers, we have made great progress.  Today we receive another shipment of just painted fixtures, have phone lines activated and do the computer system upgrade/changeover dance.  What fun THAT will be!

We bought the store on an April Fool's Day and will open in the new location on the day of a blue moon.  For some, those would seem ill omens.  They've been good for us.

Wednesday, November 28th, continued warm:  It's 58 degrees on my back porch at 7:15 this morning, slightly sunny with a light breeze and silent.  High today again around 80.

Carpet's in, wiring is nearly done (at least the metal conduit isn't dangling from the ceiling any longer), and the sprinkler drips have been stopped  Not all the fixtures are ready yet (we're only a week late!) but something is being delivered at 8AM, having spent some drying time in the truck on its way down here from Charlotte.  I guess we are ready to move--or as ready as we are likely to be it seems.  Good thing, too, since moving day is upon us.  And Mother Nature seems to be cooperating.  I was afraid that my moving day would be the signal to break the drought! 

Tuesday, November 27th, continued warm:  It's 63 degrees on my back porch at 7:30 this morning, clear and sunny with a light breeze and lots of bird chatter.  High today again around 80.

I am in Mad Hatter mode, racing around and perpetually late with something "very important" to do.  Construction creeps along as slowly as the clock hand speeds.  Please oh please oh please let there be fixtures today!

For a really beautiful autumn sight, check out the crape myrtles in the median as you approach the gatehouse leaving the island.  They are really spectacular right now and about as vibrant a fall color as we are likely to see here.

And now,  I gotta go!!!

Sunday, November 25th, it's raining!:  It's 62 degrees on my back porch at 7:30 this morning and we have been having light showers throughout the night and early morning.  They have abated at the moment but the gray sky promises a few more drops before it's all over.  How nice to hear, see and smell the rain!  High today in the upper 70's.

It was a nice day in my hometown...wait! that's a different show!  Nonetheless, yesterday was a gorgeous day here in the Lowcountry--in the low 80's sunny, pleasant.  There were many disgruntled folks who were having to leave to return to their homes, I can tell you!

When this shop move started, it seemed like such a good idea--more space, better visibility, a backroom and office, and all in the same location.  Well, we are now at the spot where lots of things need to be completed but they are all dependent on something else being completed first--the type of situation that PERT charts and the CPM charts were designed to manage.

Some new fixtures and display wall panels were scheduled for delivery last Tuesday.  On Wednesday--when by MY watch it was no longer Tuesday--I called and learned they were "nearly complete."  Hmmmm.  It's just as well that the fixtures DIDN'T arrive on schedule because the carpet which was to be installed on Monday wasn't ("Oops! I measured wrong!")  So we have half of the carpet installed, but NOT however, in the office, which meant the delivery of office furniture had to be postponed until this Monday afternoon after the rest of the carpet is installed Monday morning (Are we holding our breath?)

So we couldn't move the office/back room stuff this weekend as planned, the painters haven't been able to complete their task, the base boards are still lacking and the sink has yet to be set.  We DID get to place the sales counter so that the top could be attached and laminated, but the slatwall that forms the outside walls of the counter is in that shipment that didn't arrive Tuesday and we are hoping that everyone was using the same measuring scale.  The electrician should be able to come and run the power pole to the counter and the fire sprinkler guys will have to come back a third time to try to stop the slow drips coming from sprinkler heads that are, of course, over the section of carpet that HAS been installed.  Phones, that's a story too!  We will have the same numbers, etc and will add one more line for another modem, but none of that work can be done until the day we are changing the number over (I still don't understand quite why.), which means that for some period of time, there will be no phone service, no credit card clearance, no fax, or order transmission.  And the security system can't be activated until the phone lines are.  I'm looking for a big dog, although just seeing me standing in the store should be a major deterrent!

In the midst of all of this late and non-arrival, there have been some deliveries that have arrived on time--merchandise and furniture for the sitting area.  Of course, we have nothing to put the merchandise on and there's dust everywhere in the sitting area-not to mention a drip or two!

There IS a brighter side to all this.  The contractor's foreman is wonderful and it is a comfort to see the same deer-in-the-headlights look in his eyes that I see in mine!  And as near as I can tell, every sort of skilled craftsman in the Lowcountry will be at our shop on Monday.  That should be a circus worth coming to watch!  Did I mention the ceiling tiles are still stacked in bundles in the back?  That means we will have men on stilts, too!  I'll be there, also.  You'll have no problem identifying me.

Friday, November 23rd, showers possible:  It's 56 degrees on my back porch at 7:30 this morning.  We are likely to see a few more clouds than we saw yesterday and there may actually be some rain showers.  Wouldn't that be a welcome gift to a very dry area!  High in the low 70's.

Dawn was not dramatic this morning.  I started my walk in the gray half-light, silent except for the sound of the ocean.  It was the kind of light that could have been day falling away toward night as easily as night yielding to the day again.  Slowly the air brightened and the rising sun slightly brushed the morning clouds with the palest pink.  The birds awoke and took flight and began their morning chatter.  By the time I returned home, it was full light, no doubt that it was day.

A few ducks flew over as I walked.  I wanted to warn them about the hunters whose guns I heard at dawn. I hope the hunters eat the ducks and do not shoot them just for the "pleasure" of seeing them drop from the sky.  Why do I doubt that?

Thursday, November 22nd, partly sunny:  It's 48 degrees on my back porch at 7:30 this morning.  The sun is shining brightly and the sky is blue, but there may be a few clouds rolling in later.  High in the upper 60's.

Happy Thanksgiving!  He Who Must Play Tennis is starting the day with some pancakes--just to get the eating off to a good start.  This will be a day off--of sorts--for me as I will be attending to the myriad tasks that attend the impending move of the shop.  A mixed blessing!

There have been lots of blessings this year, in spite of immense tragedy and sorrow.  I hope that all of us can find those things we have to give thanks for and can focus our energies on those today.  If you are among family and friends, so much the better.

Wednesday, November 21st, sunny but cooler:  It's 46 degrees on my back porch at 7:15 this morning.  The sun is shining a bit weakly at present but should soon be brightening the clear sky.  Cooler today, though, with a high only in the mid 60's.  Appropriate.

The Limehouse Bridge has reopened.  Barring any further unfortunate contacts with barges, it should be accessible for holiday traffic.  All Johns Island commuters will be pleased.  A humorous/political note to all of this:  a hand-painted sign along the Maybank Hwy approach to the Stono River bridge that read "What do you think of the 526 now?"

Lots of people are coming to Kiawah for the long holiday weekend, it seems.  We have been quite busy and the island paths are peopled again.  I suspect the local grocery stores will be THE place to be this evening--or not!

If you are traveling, go safely and gently.  If you are being traveled to, take a deep breath!

Tuesday, November 20th, a few clouds:  It's 55 degrees on my back porch at 7:15 this morning.  The sun rose in a fiery sky this morning, bright red and orange.  A red sky at morning...  We will have a mix of sun and clouds today, highs again in the low 70's, but the low tonight will dip into the 40's.  Dry again.

The closure of the the Limehouse Bridge continues and it as created a real mess at the Stono bridge.  He Who Must Play Tennis left for work at 8:00 yesterday morning and at 8:45 he called me, still on Johns Island.  The traffic going into town yesterday morning was backed up from the Folly Road lights, onto Johns Island, and at one point, all the way back to the Big Pig.  Coming home traffic was also delayed, but not as severely.  Hopefully, the bridge will be repaired by tomorrow sometime.  Is it time to revive the old steamer ferry service that used to ply the waters from Rockville and Johns Island to Charleston?

Monday, November 19th, a few clouds:  It's 55 degrees on my back porch at 7:10 this morning.  The sun will shine today but there will be a few clouds. The temperature will be in the low 70's.  Get out and enjoy the day if you can.

The days begin to gallop towards the holidays now--Thanksgiving being just days away.  How does it happen every year?  Will you be traveling?  It's a tough decision this year:  brave the delays at the airports or face the increased traffic on the highways.

He Who Must Play Tennis was out on the creeks monitoring some marshland on Friday morning and reports that the dolphin are still very much in evidence.  They accompanied the boat for a while and one even did a twirling leap for him.  Better than Sea World!  Add to it lots of waterfowl and beautiful marshland and you have a picture that eloquently states why we need to conserve open land.

Speaking of a picture that says it all, did you see the NY Times on Thursday?  There was a color picture on the Nation Challenged section of Afghan women washing clothes in the Kabul River.  They were not veiled and were not accompanied by men.  It was a scene that many of us would have looked at several weeks ago and tsk-ed at for the primitive lifestyle it showed.  Now I look at that picture and see freedom.  It's only the beginning of a long, difficult road to an unknown destination, but what a wonderful picture of the startling changes a few weeks have made for those women.  Who would have thought that women washing clothes in a river could be such a evocative scene!

Sunday, November 18th, continued mild:  It's 55 degrees on my back porch at 8:00 this morning.  The sun hasn't broken through yet although it is promised.  High again in the low to mid-70's.

As an added complication in the bridge replacement situation, a barge hit the Limehouse bridge on Main Road yesterday, closing it.  Repairs are estimated to take four days.  That means access on and off the island is strictly by way of the Stono River bridge.  The Coast Guard has requested that bridge openings there be restricted to allow road traffic flow.  If you are coming this way for Thanksgiving, be forewarned.  We will try to keep you posted.

I didn't see the Leonids but I did see the eyelids.

Saturday, November 17th, continued mild:  It's 55 degrees on my back porch at 7:30 this morning.  The sun is shining brightly and it looks like another beautiful day for the Warburg Cup.  High this afternoon again in the mid-70's with a continuing breeze.

The skies should be clear tonight--or at least early tomorrow morning--to allow a good viewing of the Leonids meteor shower.  This year's event is touted as being the best in 35 years and to be surpassed only in 2099.  Good out, look east in the direction of the constellation Leo (hence the name) and there should be excellent viewing of "falling stars."

Friday, November 16th, mild:  It's 60 degrees on my back porch at 7:30 this morning.  The sun has broken through and it looks as though it will be a very nice day, mild with a high in the mid-70's.  We received only some windblown sprinkles yesterday and there's no rain in the forecast for the weekend.  The drought continues and, in fact, today's paper carries the long range forecast which shows little relief from the dry conditions during the winter.

Yesterday was overcast even if no rain developed.  In the suppressed sunlight, colors assume different intensities and hues.  The wild muscadine vines are now yellow and were very easily traced through the trees and bramble and there is some tree that now sports a soft orange, elongated leaf that sprinkled its color through the wooded areas.  Even the marsh had a changed look, a rustier hue with strips of darker brown and dusky green.  All in all, a very autumnal palette.

Thursday, November 15th, blustery:  It's 60 degrees on my back porch at 7:15 this morning, the sky is gray and there is a strong breeze blowing off the marsh.  We had a little rain overnight and there is the possibility of more today.  With winds expected to be 25-35 mph out of the NE, this could be an interesting and uncomfortable first day for the Warburg Cup down on the Ocean Course.  They are really going to think they are playing along the Scottish coast!  Except for the fact that it will be near 70 degrees and it's November!

There was a beautiful sunset last night, one of those that flares brightly with technicolor vividness for a brief time and then quickly dims as you stand watching it.  He Who Must Play Tennis saw it from his car as he was headed home and called me at work to go outside right away so I wouldn't miss it.  I did, and hustled down to the end of the parking lot to catch the last bits of the show.  It's not that sunset occurs infrequently, but doesn't each one seem a special event?

Wednesday, November 14th, mild:  It's 52 degrees on my back porch at 7:15 this morning.  Even though it is a bit gray at the moment, sunshine will be the order of the day with an afternoon high around 70.  Our chance of some nourishing rainfall has been pushed into next week.  That's good luck for the Warburg Cup, but bad news for the continuing drought.

At dusk, a deer sprinted along the side of the Parkway at the edge of the marsh approaching the gate.  She was fleet and nimble and I feared for her safety as there was a fair bit of traffic coming and going at the time, but she kept to the verge and then darted into the brushy bit of woods at the marsh edge.  This is just a reminder that deer are active along the marsh edge and not easily seen before you are right up on them.

Tuesday, November 13th, showers delayed:  It's 50 degrees on my back porch at 7:10 this morning.  What had at first light looked like a promising overcast has turned into clearing skies and sunshine.  That will be the case during most of the day with a high near 70.  It continues to be breezy.  Our best chance for some rain to at least dampen the dry soil will be Wednesday.

It's a monumental mindset shift that we now must seek to prove what is not an act of terrorism.  We are indeed changed.

I find that I am being pelted by acorns quite a lot this season.  That should bode well for the squirrels and deer and other critters that feed on the acorns.  The past couple of years have not really seen bumper acorn yield, mainly because of wind that stripped the acorns from the trees prematurely.  Well, they are coming off the trees now and the squirrels around our house are busy!  Of course, that keeps Molly and Zoë fully engaged in trying to keep tabs on Mr. Squirrel.

Monday, November 12th, a bit cooler:  It's 54 degrees on my back porch at 7:15 this morning.  The sun is shining and a moderate breeze is blowing. The afternoon temp will brush the bottom side of 70 today--and there's rain possible on Tuesday.

The pines continue to drop needles at a rapid rate, a lot of them on the deck.  At least they are also putting down a fresh layer on the non-grassy areas outside also, lessening the need to bring in bales of pine needles to spread.  That has always seemed a bit like carrying coals to Newcastle.

If you are off today, enjoy the short break before the holiday gallop--or perhaps today is the day it begins! 

Sunday, November 11th, sunny, continued dry:  It's 66 degrees on my shady back porch at 11:10 this morning.  The sun is out and warm and I am sure we will eventually make it into the mid-70's as predicted.  There's a mild breeze and a clear blue sky.

This has been a very busy weekend with lots of rehearsal and last night's performance of the Berlioz Requiem.  This afternoon will be a laid-back, subdued time to recoup some energy and come down from the intense experience of performing with the symphony.

This is Veterans Day--the real one, not the "observed" Monday one.  There certainly is an increased attention to the observance this year, as there is increased attention to most things patriotic.  I grew up in a military area--Tidewater Virginia--and even though my Dad was in the Navy only during WWII, both parents continued to work for the military and the military colored the world I knew as a young person.  The step into being a military wife when He Who Must Play Tennis became a Naval officer was not a great leap from what I had known before.  So, we have never needed reminders of what it means to be in service to one's country or the high payments that are sometimes exacted, from separation from home and family to placing oneself in harm's way to giving one's life.  But this year, the reminder is that in a national conflict, ALL of us become warriors and veterans, some by choice and some by chance and circumstance.  We are all affected.

Friday, November 9th, continued pleasant:  It's 46 degrees on my back porch at 7:10 this morning.  The sun is out, the breeze is nearly still, and there are a few twitterings in the bird world.  Lots of sunshine again today but a few degrees cooler as the wind switches back around towards the north.  High in the low 70's.  Nice enough for November!

The marsh is in full autumn glory right now, gold and green and bits of brown creating fields of color.  Anywhere you can see a wide expanse of marsh is a spectacular sight--around the Kiawah River, crossing the Stono, or especially crossing the connector bridge into Charleston.  And if you are passing near one of these places when the sky is clear blue and the sun is at a low slant, you are in for a real treat!  How Nature displays beauty that humans have tried for centuries to replicate, and are still trying.

It's a weekend again.  Notice how busy they have become as we head into the pre-holiday frenzy?

Thursday, November 8th, pleasant:  It's 46 degrees on my back porch at 7:10 this morning.  The sun is once again shining brightly and it is almost still. Temps this afternoon will rise into the mid-70's.

Are you going to be in the area Saturday night?  If so, I would encourage you to attend the Charleston Symphony Orchestra concert at the Gailliard Auditorium.  The CSO and the CSO Chorus will be performing Berlioz' Requiem.  It's a dramatic, alternately melodic and terrifying piece of music.  The orchestra will include four brass choirs and twelve tympani.  We in the chorus will sing our little hearts out in order to be heard over our "accompaniment!"

Seriously, as has been reported in the local papers lately, the CSO, like several symphonies in the US and Canada, are facing tough financial times.  They were not flush before 9/11 and attendance has dropped since then--again, not just in this area, but elsewhere too.  We have a fine orchestra here and it needs our support, not just this weekend, but throughout the year.  Of course, this weekend would be a great time to attend--and we sure would love to look out on a full house from the stage.  Think about it.

In the meantime, there's a cardinal outside that I'd like to recruit for the soprano section! 

Wednesday, November 7th, warmer:  It's 46 snappy degrees on my back porch at 7:10 this morning.  The sun is bright and the wind is much reduced from yesterday's breeze.  And after a cool night, we will warm into the low 70's today.

Molly has acknowledged the cooler weather by retreating to her own reserved spot next to one of the warm air registers.  It's a favorite way station between the warm bed and the daytime world.

There have been reports of the albino raccoon being sighted in the neighborhood recently.  I haven't seen him for a while myself, but I'll start looking again.  He's always a bit of a surprise, like the pie-bald deer.  The changed coloration leaps out at you and tricks your mind as to what you are seeing.  The dappled deer always make me think "cow" for that first instance when I spot them, even though the shape and definitely the location are all wrong!

Tuesday, November 6th, breezy and clear:  It's 54 cool degrees on my back porch at 7:20 this morning, bright sunshine and a moderate breeze causing the treetops to dance.  The crisp northerly wind will blow throughout the day and the temp will rise only into the upper 60's.

I love the way cats push up against any hand that is stroking them.   Zoë is particularly good at this, uncoiling from the top of her head all the way down her body to the tip of her tail.  It's amazing how much pressure she can exert with that tail!  She's lying beside me this morning enjoying an intermittent backrub and clearing the counter as she moves around to meet the hand more squarely.  The outer coat of fur feels cool in the morning air, but she's toasty warm down at skin level.  Cozy company this morning.

Monday, November 5th, clear:  It's 56 eye-opening degrees on my back porch at 7:10 this morning, a bit overcast at the moment with a light breeze stirring the air--a more ordinary November morning.  The sun should burn through the clouds and it will be clear with a high in the low 70's.  Cool tonight.

We are very dry and could use a good, rainy day with some steady, prolonged showers.

The Virginia creeper vine that grows so profusely here, primarily straight up onto any vertical surface and that would mainly be trees, is a beautiful red now and in several places around the island creates a colorful drape that embraces a swath of otherwise green trees.  A touch of Lowcountry autumn color.

It's Guy Fawkes Day in England.  Don't forget a penny for the Old Guy!  For us colonists, it's Roy Rogers' birthday.  Happy Trails, buckaroos!

Sunday, November 4th, one more nice day:  It's 65 degrees on my back porch at 8:20 this morning, bright sunshine, little breeze and the sound of a cardinal fills the morning quiet.  We will have pleasant temps again today, a few degrees cooler, in the mid-70's, with a cool breeze from the NE.  Cooler weather is blowing our way again for the early part of the week.

We have enjoyed a terrific weekend of stimulating and challenging thought and discussion as well as great fellowship with friends and neighbors as we participate in the first Kiawah Seminar.  This one has focused on the Middle East and while some points have been clarified--to some extent--many other questions and conundrums have been posed.  A complex, confusing, and utterly fascinating topic to explore.

We learned with great sadness that one of our furry Web friends, Buster,  has died.  He is still a gentle presence in the Critter Corner.

Both Molly and Zoë are quiet this morning, asleep no doubt.  I think I'll go roust them out of their somnolence for a great big hug.

Saturday, November 3rd, nice again:  It's 65 degrees on my back porch at 8:00 this morning.  The sun is shining brightly, gilding the remaining river birch leaves that cascade to the ground in a rush as the squirrel runs along the branches.  High again around 80.

Cooler weather is on its way again and by Monday we will feel autumn's chill, but hasn't this been a lovely week?  The sun has been bright and warm and the sky a beautiful blue.  Not at all a dreary November--at least not yet!

Molly is my attendant this morning, meowing at me, paw-tapping, and nose-to-nose stares.  There's even the occasional attempt at typing.  Since I've tried to ignore her (except for blocking her access to the keyboard), she has refocused her assault on He Who Must Play Tennis and has succeeded in finding purchase on his knee--a happy cat, but only temporarily I can assure you!

Friday, November 2nd, nice again:  It's 62 degrees on my back porch at 7:00 this morning, a bit damper than yesterday following a light early morning misting.  There will be lots of sunshine again today but also a few clouds mixing in.  High again approaching 80.  The weekend weather should be very nice for the Charleston Symphony Orchestra League's house tour on Seabrook.

My early walk was unattended by deer this morning--that's because I was looking for them!  But a bluebird flashed in front of me and a hawk glided overhead.  He Who Must Play Tennis reports seeing a deer on HIS route, however, and some very credible surf too.

I can also report that the pyracantha berries are profuse this year  and shining brightly.  If we were to heed the "old" wisdom, we would be calling the firewood guys NOW. 

Thursday, November 1st, very nice:  It's 62 pleasant degrees on my back porch at 7:00 this morning.  The sun is shining and the air is soft and slightly moist with a very slight breeze stirring.  High today in the upper 70's out here on the coast.

I went for a very early morning walk this morning, accompanied by many squirrels traveling their arboreal highway and a few birds just beginning to stretch their wings from their overnight roost.  The ocean roar was loud, the dew shimmered on the grass and the air was comfortably cool.  I encountered three deer, a doe and two antlered bucks, all of whom moved away from me as I walked, but none of whom bolted away out of sight.  In fact, one of the guys continued his walk down the 10th fairway on Cougar as I continued mine, both of us sneaking occasional peeks at each other, but trying not to stare or scare.  The moon was just topping the trees across the fairways, a glimmering pink pearl in the early morning light looking much different from the bright headlamp it was in last night's sky.  Sitting in the top of one of the few pre-Hugo pines, silhouetted against the moon, was a beautiful hawk.

As I walked, the early morning contractor traffic continued to build on the Parkway just a few feet and some bushes away from me.  But where I walked, it was a different world, a place of soft air, gentle creatures, nature's music, and serene tranquility.  This is the piece of Kiawah that I "own" and that owns me.  It's a place and time that I refuse to surrender to temporal bickering and contention and it refuses to let go of me either!  Good morning, Kiawah!

Wednesday, October 31st, a bit warmer:  It's 47 on my back porch this morning, sunny already and still.  Bright sunshine again today will mean warm temps, in the low to mid-70's.  There may be showers on the way, however.

We should have a full moon for Halloween--or nearly full anyway.  A harvest spectacular is last night's sky was any indication.  The moon was high and bright at 10 pm when we crossed the causeway.  Most of the stars were dimmed by the bright moonlight, but Orion was still visible lying on his side low in the sky and just ahead of us as we crossed the bridge.

Holly berries are beginning to show and the yaupon berries are already ripened and glowing like small rubies.  The small gray-lavender berries clustered along the branches of the sea myrtle are also easy to spot now.  There's a very nice specimen at the far end of the Bank of America parking lot.  I haven't noticed pyracantha yet, but I'm sure it's berries are also ripening.  I'll have to check and see what Mother Nature's winter forecast is!  We don't have wooly caterpillars here so I can't rely on them for advance notice of a cold winter.

Tuesday, October 30th:  It's 40 degrees on my back porch at 7:00 this morning and the sun is shining brightly again with only the slightest of breezes.  It should warm up to around 70 this afternoon and without the strong breeze, should feel pretty comfortable.

Zoë believes the season has changed.  Her neck ruff of silky fur has begun to appear once again.  By spring it will be much longer and thicker, much like a permanent shawl around her neck and shoulders.  Molly's shorter hair just becomes much thicker until her coat looks like cut velvet.  We just don Polartec!

I came back onto the island just at sunset last evening.  The bright fireball sun had already dipped below the western tree line but its light still flamed orange and pink in the sky.  The moon was already 30 degrees high in the eastern sky, nearly full and already shining.  The river was still and smooth, a slight pink sheen reflecting the day's remnants.  I was the only car on that stretch of the Parkway at the time and I felt like I must have been a disturbance for the two fisher/shrimpers out on the river's edge facing the sunset as they tried to gather some of the marsh's bounty. 

Monday, October 29th, chilly sunshine: It's 40 degrees on my back porch at 7:15 this morning.  The sun is shining brightly and there's a cool breeze out of the north.  High today in the upper 60's.  The fuzzy robe and slippers feel pretty good this morning.

Molly and Zoë have been our regular attendants during this cool spell and have been discovered curled up next to each other at times.  And I've noticed that the sheepskin-lined baskets are once more in use.

Yesterday morning early I noted a substantial flock of tree swallows rising from the trees along the side of the KI Parkway as one approaches the KI Parkway.  There were hundreds of birds rising, swirling and darting in the sunlight.  I grew up in Tidewater Virginia, a land with broad, flat farmland interrupted only occasionally by small hedgerows and a few trees.  In the winter, the fields would be empty and the trees bare except for hundreds of birds perched on the branches.  Sometimes as we rode by, the flock would lift off from the tree and move up into the air and off to some other destination--the ground to search for food or another nearby tree or off way down the field--but always together in a swirling mass, now a ball and then a stripe passing across the sky.  Except for the abundant leaves on the live oak trees, the scene was much the same yesterday morning.

Saturday, October 27th, cooler yet: It's just over 40 degrees on my back porch at 7:20 this morning.  The cool front has arrived and the high today will be near 60.  Remember corduroy?

Today is my mother's birthday.  She's up in Virginia and we couldn't arrange schedules to be together, unfortunately.  But she and some of her friends--"The Girls"--will go out for a birthday lunch.  I can remember how chagrined she was to find me skipping rope at the end of our sidewalk chanting that she was 31 that day--a few years back.  I wonder how she would react to knowing that I've posted on the web that today is her 80th?

He Who Must Play Tennis is fortified with waffles and apple butter for a cool morning on the courts.  If you can find shelter from the wind, the sun should feel good

Friday, October 26th, much cooler: It's 58 degrees on my back porch at 7:20 this morning.  It already feels much different from this week's very warm and steamy weather.  The cool front is sliding into the Lowcountry and the high today will be around 70.  But there will be lots of sunshine and a bit of a breeze.

Leaves and pine straw are beginning to litter the bike paths now, adding bits of rust, yellow, and red to the dark path.  The breeze and cool weather will add more to the carpet today.

When I returned to the house after my ride, I could hear a bird "screeching" high above.  I looked up, searching for the sound's origin and was treated to not one but two hawks gliding and swooping above the treetops.  They made four or five circling runs before they sailed off down the marsh.

Thursday, October 25th, there's a change on its way: It's 69 degrees on my back porch at 7:30 this morning and clearing.  We will see a mix of sun and clouds and the temp will reach into the mid-80's before it begins to fall into the 40's tonight and in the 30's by the weekend.  Another sweater opportunity approaches.

I'm running late this morning and have to be at the store early.  I have just enough time to say hello and wish you all a happy day. He Who Must Play Tennis began his day with cheese biscuits and homemade apple butter--not a bad start!

Wednesday, October 24th, very warm: It's 69 degrees on my back porch at 7:15 this morning.  The sun is beginning to rise on what should be much like a summer's day--sunny with a high in the mid-80's.

The Stono River was pink as I crossed it last evening, reflecting the sunset colors.  There was still a soft gray tint and pewtery sheen to the water, a color which if you saw it in a painting, you would never imagine it to be from nature.

I returned home later last night traveling through patchy ground fog.  Sometimes it hovered in the air a few feet above us, a ghostly nimbus that sprayed light in all directions and made street lights and security lights look like lighthouse beacons.  In some places the fog was at ground level and we traveled carefully down an altered highway.  And in some places, there was no trace of fog; the air was clear and the stars were bright.  An interesting ride both ways.

Tuesday, October 23rd, warm: It's 65 degrees on my back porch at 7:15 this morning, still and quiet except for a few twitterings and the soft sound of the ocean in the distance--and a cardinal who has just tuned up!  It's still nearly nighttime dark.  But the sun will rise and shine brightly today and the high will be in the low 80's.

I took a long bike ride yesterday evening and was struck by how good the island smells.  Riding along, I passed through distinct zones of nearly palpable smells.  Occasionally along the paths there's a spicy, floral smell, sweet and fragrant.  Near the marshes the air sometimes has a salty tang edged with a little pluff mud.  Fallen leaves dampened by yesterday's shower added a slightly acrid, woody smell, common now and making the path through the wooded areas have a lot in common with a mountain trail--at least in the olfactory sense.  Along the edges of the golf courses and through Night Heron Park, there's still the soft, summer smell of mown grass and warm dirt.

Riding on a bike, one passes more quickly from one fragrance to another and there are only very brief instances of combined aromas.  Yesterday, for some reason, the various smells seemed heightened, so much so that I seemed to experience the island by nose.  Funny, sometimes it's the sounds--birdsong or ocean roar--that predominate; sometimes color and light.  The island is filled with many beauties.

I did see one beautiful sight as I was nearing the fire station at the West Beach end--a velvety antlered buck looking straight at me from the understory, unflinching, unyielding and nearly invisible except for the backlighting of the lowering sun.

Monday, October 22nd, showers possible: It's 65 degrees on my back porch at 7:15 this morning, cloudy and nearly still. It will continue warm today and there's an increasing chance of showers.  High in the upper 70's.

For some reason, there is much more birdsong this morning than there has been in the past several days, mainly cheeps and twitters and one clear-voiced wren.  Perhaps there are a few transients or new residents joining in.

Yesterday was summertime warm and even had a touch of summer's humidity.  There was soft light and a soft breeze and even a soft coral-pink sunset to round out the day.  I've noticed that some of the trees are beginning to sport some color--not their own leaves, but the vines that grow up along their branches and then drape down toward the ground.  Virginia creeper is turning deep red and the wild grapevine is once again creating yellow polkas dots.  The cooler weather expected at week's end should hasten the process and sharpen the colors.

Sunday, October 21st, warm: It's 65 degrees on my back porch at 8:30 this morning, a bit cloudy and nearly still.  We will see more clouds today than we have in the past week and it will be a touch warmer, high in the low 80's.

There's a large black and white furry impediment to my typing this morning.  Zoë has plopped down as close as she can get to the keyboard and my arm.  Occasionally, a head bumps my hand or a tail sweeps across the keyboard, just to keep things interesting.  At present she in intent on clearing everything but herself off the horizontal surface.

A memorable sight as I was leaving the island yesterday morning.  Just as I was in front of the Sales Center, a bald eagle flew low (relatively) across the Parkway in front of me, a snake pinched in its beak.  An eye-opening sight to start the day!

Saturday, October 20th, warm: It's 64 degrees on my back porch at 7:10 this morning, morning overcast and an occasional light breeze, still a cool one out of the north.  A few clouds, but mostly sunny today with a high near 80.  A good day for the MUSC golf tournament I would think.

The berries are abundant on the palmettos this year and they are just beginning to turn dark and ripen. They can be a bit of a nuisance underfoot and are easily tracked inside, but they provide food for several kinds of birds.  The cedar waxwings love them and are quite prone to indulging in them after they have ripened to the point of fermentation  and becoming a bit tipsy.

Friday, October 19th, warmer: It's 56 degrees on my back porch at 7:10 this morning, noticeably warmer than the past couple of days.  The sky is morning cloudy still, but that should clear as the sun rises and we should have another bright & sunny day with a high in the mid 70's.

It must be snake-viewing time again here in the Lowcountry.  I've had increased requests for "snake books."  The cooler weather does draw the snakes into the daytime sunlight for warmth, so they are much more visible to us during the fall and spring.  It's usually easy to tell when a request for a guide is out of more than idle curiosity--something about the eyes gives it away!

Zoë delights in chasing the small lizards that unwisely choose to sun on the deck when she's out there.  We've already had one in the house this week--sans tail, of course.  He Who Must Play Tennis rescued it and returned it to the deck, reporting that it was one heavy-breathing lizard!  Molly is still chasing pine cones and Mr. Squirrel.

Thursday, October 18th, sunshine: It's 48 degrees on my back porch at 7:00 this morning and DARK!  There's little breeze or humidity and a few very early birds are just beginning to call.  They are crows and I'd be hard pressed to class their voices as singing!    The sun will shine brightly today and the high will be around 70.  Very pleasant.

Molly and Zoë have agreed upon a bit of a truce--weather-related, I am sure.  Both of them want to be on the bed at night, sharing a bit of the warmth and comfort--and it's nice for us to have foot warmers.

Wednesday, October 17th, cool sunshine: It's 47 chilly degrees on my back porch at 7:20 this morning, light breeze with skies clearing of morning overcast.  It should be sunny today but the high will make it only into the upper 60's.  Haul out the sweaters and sweatshirts again!

We should start seeing ducks and geese moving south in the coming days.  Many of them will pass over us in their V-formations, but a significant number will land and spend the winter here on Kiawah's ponds and wetlands.  Time to pull out the field guide and see if I can remember again how to tell them all apart.  By the time I get so I can distinguish them with any near-certainty, it's time for them to leave and I'm back to trying to identify warblers again.

Tuesday, October 16th, sunny: It's 55 degrees on my back porch at 7:10 this morning, slight breeze and still too dim outside to tell what the sky is like.  We are supposed to have another sunny day like yesterday with a high in the upper 70's--but watch out! The wind is shifting and 40's are on tap for tonight!

I went for a late bike ride yesterday and I can report that the island is still beautiful.  I saw a large hawk standing guard on one of the soccer goals at Night Heron Park, sitting perfectly still, watching for movement in the grass, no doubt.  Three deer crossed Glen Abbey in front of me as I rode, two adults and a young one, running, dashing across and then crashing through the brush on the other side.  I was happy I wasn't 25 feet further along in my ride or I could have been on the wrong side of a deer-bike collision!  Further along, I came across a squirrel drinking water that had collected on a manhole cover.  He stretched out full-length across the lid, his tail straight out behind him, and didn't stop as I rode past, just looked towards me and flicked his tail. I listened to the egrets settling in to roost around a nearby lagoon as they clacked and cackled and buzzed--they can be a noisy bunch!   I rode and rode until I finally had to come in because it was getting dark.  Yep! the island is still beautiful.

We heard from another faithful visitor that the color in Pittsburgh PA was at its peak last weekend.  A brisk wind, though, has transported many of the leaves from the trees to the ground, creating what was described as a colorful patchwork quilt ground cover.  Doesn't that sound nice!  Thanks for the image.  We have lots of river birch leaves falling now and yesterday for the first time, I got a brief whiff of that wonderful smell of fallen leaves.  Now when that smell wafts my way, I'll close my eyes and call up an image of a lawn littered with brightly colored, fallen leaves.  Like I said, vicarious autumn!

Monday, October 15th, sunny: It's 60 degrees on my back porch at 7:15 this morning, quite a bit cooler than yesterday as we finally did get a small shower as the front moved through last night.  Even cooler temps are on their way during the week.  The front also brought clearer skies and we should have a beautiful day today, sunny with a high near 80.

There was little sunshine to bask in yesterday even though the air was warm and muggy--all the better to appreciate the goldenrod now in full bloom along the roadsides.  Ever notice how yellow flowers actually seem brighter on days with less sunshine, as though they have gathered the sun's light over the sunny days and then give it back on the gray ones.  And all the yellow flowers were shining brightly yesterday.

We heard from a faithful visitor from Massachusetts that the fall color there is approaching its peak.  He also reminded me of one of the drawbacks to all that beauty--all those leaves fall and have to be raked and disposed of.  Of course, there's an up side to that--a raking party and hot cider.  Also heard from Maryland that lack of rain may have kept some colors from being as bright as in other years, but still enough to know it's fall.  Pictures to be posted soon--vicarious autumn!

Sunday, October 14th, showers likely: It's 74 degrees on my back porch at 8:50 this morning, overcast, damp, with an occasional breeze.  Mostly cloudy today with a real threat of thunderstorms later.  High around 80

The sweetgrass is in bloom now so it's easy to spot across the island.  Clouds of purple plumes dance above the grass clumps, feathery, almost ephemeral.  In fact, in some lights and seen at a distance, the plumes seem to disappear.  Most of the sweetgrass we see on the island now is the result of landscaping.  The natural sites are dwindling in number, but they are still there and worth the hunt.

Saturday, October 13th, continued pleasant: It's 62 degrees on my back porch at 6:10 this morning.  It's still night out there so I can only guess that the rising sun will reveal mostly clear skies.  High again around 80.

There are few things quite so comforting as having a cat curl up right next to you, snuggle in and begin to purr.  And there are few things quite so annoying as having said cat launch into her morning toilette while in that same location!  Molly is not an overly meticulous cat, but her bath can take a loo-oong time, or at least so it seems when I am involuntarily involved.

I can hear movement in the brush that borders our lot, deer or bobcat, I presume.  How fortunate to live in a place where if you hear noises outside, you immediately suspect critters and not intruders, an opportunity for spotting some beautiful bit of the natural world and not being a target of some malicious intent.

Another busy weekend looms, more to do than time is available.  Hope you find a way to be outside during part of the day.  And what are the leaf reports from prime autumn locales?

Friday, October 12th, pleasant: It's 65 degrees on my back porch at 7:10 this morning.  The sky is pink, which looks nice, but a bit strange behind the pine trees.  The ocean, which has been silent these past few mornings is definitely "over there."  Mix of sun and clouds today and a high around 80.

Some of the spiders and their webs are disappearing now but a few hardy souls are hanging in there--quite literally.  The golden silks that are around our house are of pretty substantial size and look like appropriate Halloween decorations.  I will NOT be unhappy to see the end of those little black, jumping house spiders, however, which seem to be more prevalent this year than ever.

Thursday, October 11th, a few clouds: It's 68 pleasant degrees on my back porch at 7:10 this morning.  It's a bit overcast, but that could just be the morning waking up, and the wind has died down a bit.  A few clouds will be evident today, but the high will once again be near 80.

We are one month past the WTC and Pentagon attacks and there will undoubtedly be speeches and services to mark the day even as military action continues over Afghanistan.  If our determination and will in this larger endeavor to blunt terrorism should begin to waver, reflect on what a colleague said:  If we were to spend one day, just one day, standing against terrorism for each of the September 11th victims, it would take 17 years to honor all of them.

Wednesday, October 10th, warmer: It's 60 degrees on my back porch at 7:10 this morning and the winds have shifted to a more easterly direction as a warm-up continues.  High today will be in the upper 70's, still breezy.

It was still nearly night-dark outside when we first arose this morning--not that long ago.  The sky was just beginning to show blue as the sun's rays--but not the sun--peeked over the horizon.  There was still a bright half-moon high overhead and a couple of planets shining. That's a lot like night!  It's dimly light on the porch now and a wren has warbled a few anticipatory notes, but no other sound--not the ocean, heat pumps, or other birds.  A rooster could make a bold statement right about now--and wouldn't THAT excite a few!

Tuesday, October 9th, teensy bit warmer: It's 52 degrees on my back porch at 7:10 this morning.  The northerly breeze continues to blow in some cool air, but it's dry cool air and very few clouds with it. High today should be in the low 70's as we begin to warm up a little.

Our two mini cool-spells have really sent the message to the river birches and their leaves are dropping rapidly and there are a few red sumac leaves to be spotted here and there.  But the gums and maples remain solidly green.

I crossed the bridge and marsh last evening just at the moment when the sun was halfway below the horizon.  The sky was mostly clear with only a few thin scattered clouds to the east and a very few jet contrails overhead.  Most of the sky was soft blue-gray, giving no hint as to what was occurring at the western horizon.  There, the setting sun blazed yellow-orange, but color-lit only a small patch of nearby space, tinting it pink and coral.  The color didn't sweep across the sky and it didn't linger.  This was no dramatic day's end, but a small, intimate sunset for a few.  You had to be there! 

Monday, October 8th, crisp morning. It's 50 degrees on my back porch at 7:20 this morning  with a continued breeze out of the north.  Even Zoë has found the deck a bit cool this morning and Molly is still snuggled in bedcovers.  Like yesterday, the sun will warm the air to around 70. Cool again tonight.

And so it has begun.  With a swiftness that belies what lies ahead, we have enjoined an opponent so diffuse that it defies definition.  War is anything but holy and even if you believe the cause to be just, it requires determination, courage, and strong-willed endurance.  Fighting an enemy whose "holy" mission is to destroy you and your way of life will follow few rules or conventions of war.  May God bless and protect all of us.

Be alert.  Be informed.  But also go outside, take a long walk and check out the salt myrtle just beginning to bloom.  Talk to your family and hug your cats and dogs.  Savor life.

Sunday, October 7th, pull out those sweatshirts! It's 57 degrees on my back porch at 8:20 this morning with a significant breeze out of the north.  We will have cool sunshine today and a continuing breeze, making for a very fallish afternoon high near 70 degrees.  And I wouldn't be surprised to smell a little fireplace smoke this evening!

The rain and cool winds held off long enough for us to enjoy our neighborhood block party last evening--good folks enjoying some good laughs and stories and food.  We even had some singing, although I'm not sure you would find it in any dictionary under "good!"  In this fractured, unsettled time, it's good to nourish and be nourished by community.

The work one sees going on in Willet Pond is to replace an aging weir system.  We will see similar work at Bass and Ibis Ponds in the near future.

The Charleston Symphony will be in the park this afternoon for a free concert--or at East Beach if the weather requires.

Saturday, October 6th, showers later? It's 70 degrees on my back porch at 7:45 this morning and the skies are clear at this hour.  Clouds could roll in this afternoon and there could be a thundershower or two.  Hope not, since today is the SMOG block party.  High around 80, much cooler after a front rolls through.

It's one of those beautiful mornings that make us remember why April, May, and October are primo months here.  I walked this morning, accompanied mainly by cardinals and deer.  The island was very quiet and the breeze out of the SW was soft and slightly moist.  Dew shimmered on the fairways and the lagoon water was perfectly smooth.  For a time I walked towards the moon, a silvery light still halfway up the sky, shining brightly above a thin layer of low-lying night clouds.  Coming back towards home, I walked facing the sun which was spreading a pink wash over some high, thin morning clouds.  Sun on my face, moon at my back, pink skies above and silver dew underfoot.  If I needed a reminder, it's good to be alive.

Friday, October 5th, pleasant again: It's 66 degrees on my back porch at 7:15 this morning, much the same as it has been for the past few days.  And we won't see a lot of change during most of today's weather, although a few clouds may make an appearance.  High in the low 80's.

These cool mornings have meant we have had a measurable dew, particularly noticeable on the very fine, small webs stretched delicately across the tops of several dwarf yaupons.  The dew turns the usually nearly invisible silk into a silvery doily that glistens on top of the dark green.  As the sun strengthens, the dew evaporates and rises in slow, twisting tendrils--a misty moment of magic right at the end of my driveway!

All the elements are in place for a fine weekend to come, some sunshine, some tennis for HWMPT, and a pancake or two, I am sure

Thursday, October 4th, pleasant: It's 66 degrees on my back porch at 7:20 this morning, the sky is clear and there are a few early bird twitters emanating from the common area brush.  Beyond that, the only sound I hear is a neighbor's irrigation sprinklers clicking around and crashing against an overhanging palmetto frond.

I was happy to note that a Belted kingfisher has once again laid claim to a prized perch--on top of the "No Fishing" sign on the Kiawah River bridge.  He was sitting there yesterday morning, very tall and still, surveying the flooded marsh.  No fishing unless, of course, you are a "king."

Wednesday, October 3rd, If you love Indian summer, come on down! It's 64 degrees on my back porch at 7:20 this morning, clear skies once again and only the slightest breeze stirring.  The stage is set for a glorious day--sunshine and a high in the low to mid-80's.  Take every excuse you can to be outside!

The KI Parkway continued to be an active place last evening.  As we were returning from town and had just turned on to the KI Parkway from the BK, there was a beautiful buck trotting down the right shoulder towards us.  He didn't seem concerned and wasn't "deer in the headlights" panicked; he was just on a mission.

The moon is full at present and the nighttime causeway across the river is beautiful in the moonlight, especially when the tide is high and the silver moonlight is bounced in reflection from the smooth surface of the water.  Evocative guitar music was playing on NPR as we crossed and I turned off the headlights and and slowly traveled in another realm for a brief time.

My wish for all of you in these tense, disturbing times is that you find a special spot, view, or sound, seek it out and draw comfort and strength from the natural world's solid serenity.  Even the most fragile things--butterflies, rainbows, birdsong, and salt spray--speak of strength and endurance.

Tuesday, October 2nd, beautiful: It's 58 degrees on my back porch at 7:20 this morning, clear and only slightly breezy.  Sunshine will warm us up to around 80 today.  Ahhhhhhh!

Our brief cool spell will make Indian summer--our usual October weather actually--seem that much more special, I think.  Bright warm days to enjoy and cool evenings that make us love sweaters.

I am beginning to see the bright yellow spikes of goldenrod along the roadsides this week.  There is usually a pretty good row of it between the gate and the bridge and I watch for it each fall.  These days, however, it's hard to see everything going on along that stretch, though.  The sunsets have been gorgeous, there are butterflies everywhere, I always try to spot a dolphin, and the marsh grasses wave like grain just now.  Then there's the small matter of other cars on the road, too!  It's a very busy stretch of road, with or without cars!

Sunday evening, September 30th, the end of a pleasant day: It's 68 degrees on my back porch at 9:30 PM.  It has been a beautiful sunny, breezy day, warm with a cool edge to the wind.  We expect the same for tomorrow.  Beautiful days, these.

The computer has been sooooo sloooow these past few days, taking much time to load and let me talk to it.  On Sunday morning, I just couldn't sit still long enough for it to load so I am writing tonight for today and tomorrow.  So much for awe at how much a computer does in such a short time!

It has been a busy day--books, brooms and apples.  Activity begins to pick up as the weather cools.  The birds are certainly much more vocal and there are bunches of butterflies fluttering all around.  The cats are even more active, mostly chasing each other or trying to intimidate Mr. Squirrel.  I fear for Molly sometimes.  Advancing years and weight gain have decreased her vertical jump accuracy a bit. Now, to get up on the deck rail, she begins at the far corner of the deck, runs at full speed, leaping up and caroming off the side of the house up onto the railing. Now, this is the same cat who has fallen off the deck rail twice, presumably just walking on it.  Each time really is a leap of faith!

A new month starts tomorrow--October, my favorite usually.  We all wait anxiously to see what this one will bring.

Saturday, September 29th, breezy: It's 62 degrees on my back porch at 7:05 this morning, early morning dim with a moderate breeze along the marsh edges.  The sunshine will be with us again today but the breeze will increase.  Highs again in the low to mid-70's.

The morning symphony has not yet begun at full volume.  Each day, however, we have been treated to a mockingbird serenade at work.  The doors are open to the fresh air and our soloist sits in the plaza and sings the most beautiful songs, early morning and late afternoon, so our day is bracketed with music.  In these still somewhat somber days, the pure joy of his singing is a blessing.

The territorial tensions have increased here in the cat kingdom, usually erupting in a fracas in the very late or very early hours.  This morning there was a sharp exchange of opinions at bedside, which seems to have been forgotten now or at least set aside for a bit.

Friday, September 28th, mild and sunny: It's 62 degrees on my back porch at 7:05 this morning, a very pleasant start to the day. The only downside is that it's so dark upon rising.  Still, I'd rather have the daylight at the end of the workday, I think.  Lots of sunshine today and highs again in the mid-70's.  Another good tennis morning.

I rode my bike around the island yesterday--a very quiet island, even for September.  I encountered four other bicyclists and one walker over the course of the entire 12-mile loop.  I did encounter four deer alongside the path, all of whom held their ground and didn't bound away into the brush as I rode by.  And I saw lots of Beauty berry still shining brightly at the woods edges.  Some of it has started to fade a bit, but along the Vanderhorst Allee trail there are still some incredibly bright purple clusters of berries easily seen.

It IS quiet out, but September has always been a slower month, winding down from the summer and not yet geared up for fall and winter.  It's a great time to take advantage of the luxury of nearly deserted paths and beach, to really get out and enjoy a large part of the reason many of us chose to live here in the first place.  When was the last time you walked around Night Heron Park?

Thursday, September 27th, continued pleasant: It's 60 degrees on my back porch at 7:25 this morning, still, dry and quiet.  There's a bit of overcast but we expect that to burn off quickly and to have a mostly sunny day with highs in the mid-70's.  A great day for the property owners' tennis tournament.

I read in the online news this morning that scientists in Denmark have succeeded in making important steps towards "quantum entanglement," a physical phenomenon that has important implications for information and communication, but which is also a concept basic to teleportation, the preferred transportation means for "local" commutes from the Starship Enterprise.  It has something to do with subatomic particles being entwined without physical contact.  I prefer Einstein's way of referring to it:  "spooky action at a distance."  He had a way about him, did that Albert.  Beam me up, Scotty!

Wednesday, September 26th, beautiful: It's 57 degrees on my back porch at 7:15 this morning, 10 degrees cooler than yesterday this time.  The sky is clear, the air is crisp, and the humidity has dropped.  High today in the mid-70's with mostly sunshine.  A beautiful fall day.

It was a two-kitty night.  Molly (aka Miss Butterball) usually spends some portion of the night on the bed, snuggled close or at least with one paw touching one of us SOMEWHERE.  Last night Zoë (aka Princess Fluff) joined the pile and curled up at my feet.  Usually she is in her own secret places at night and Molly rules supreme on the bed.  I could feel Molly move down to where Zoë was and stand there as if to express disbelief that Her Fluffiness would even dare to be on the queen's bed.  Zoë stayed absolutely still, refusing to be budged.  I've seen some sidelong hard stares between the two this morning and expect territorial rights will be sharply discussed in the very near future.

The cooler air has hastened the downward drift of leaves from the river birch and the trending towards yellow and gold by the crape myrtle--not much of a colorful display, but a satisfying crunch underfoot.

Tuesday, September 25th, cooler: It's 67 degrees on my back porch at 7:15 this morning and you can already feel the weather change out there.  The change will continue through a few more showers today (possibly) as the wind continues a shift around to the north.  High in the mid-70's this afternoon and down into the 50's tonight.

With the advent of the incredible comfort of heating and air conditioning, we have lost close awareness of the weather, especially its changes and signs of change.  We all recognize the results of the change, like this morning's coolness, but I would wager few of us were aware of the moment when the wind shifted and the cool air begin to drift in.  In the days before well-sealed and insulated houses, windows and doors were open and the direction of the breeze was well known.  There would come a moment when the prevailing breeze, out of the SW for instance, would pause, there would be a slight swirl to the air as the wind billowed curtains from several directions at once.  The air would seem lighter somehow for an instant, as though everything were being lifted up briefly.  Then the breeze would settle back into a more constant direction, changed now, perhaps out of the NW.  I can hear my grandmother saying, "Wind's shifting,"  see her lifting her head to it, sensing the change, knowing without pondering what that change meant for the day's weather.  I certainly don't want to give up the convenient comfort of temperature control in my home, but I hope I can always be tuned to the weather outside and can occasionally be out there in the swirl of the shifting breeze.

Monday, September 24th, showers later?: It's 71 degrees on my back porch at 7:00 this morning.  The sun is just beginning to brighten the sky and so far it looks pretty nice out there.  Clouds will mix in today and there's a likelihood of showers later.  High today in the low 80's, but there' s a change coming.

A Carolina wren has awakened in the brush just beyond the deck and is trying out her early morning voice, letting her neighbors know the day has begun. And an early morning hummingbird has made his first pass at the feeder.

Have you noticed the "Kiawah Island Keep Left" sign just before the turn from the BK Parkway?  A vine began its climb up one of the supports a few weeks ago, then established its hold on the body of the sign itself.  In the last two weeks it has flourished and has all but obliterated the message with lush foliage and purple flowers.  A morning glory or near relative I presume.  So far, no one with a weed whacker has noticed it, thank goodness, and I enjoy seeing it as I go to and from the island.  I fear its days are numbered, however.

Sunday, September 23rd, sun and clouds: It's 74 moist degrees on my back porch at 8:40 this morning.  The sun is shining and the birds are singing yet it is very quiet outside.  Clouds may roll through during the day but the high will still reach into the mid-80's.  The possibility of rain increases for Monday and Tuesday and there's a definite cool-down on the way by Tuesday.

If the Piglet parking lot Saturday evening is any indication, the week ahead will be a very quiet one.  At 5:30 last night there were six vehicles in the lot, not the usual Saturday sight.

I saw a robin yesterday.   Has the fall migration south begun?  I do like seeing them twice a year.  Because they are ubiquitous in Virginia and they are easily distinguishable, the robin is probably the first bird I really could recognize and name as a child.  And it is still the species that primarily defines the word for me.

The Symphony opened its season last evening and it was good to be i a crowd, to sing the national anthem heartily, and then to be buoyed by beautiful music.

Saturday, September 22nd, warmer: It's 75 muggy degrees on my back porch at 7:20 this morning,.  There's a bit of fog blowing about this morning but here among the trees I can't tell how dense it is out in the open.  There is a dense fog advisory for the morning however, some remnants of yesterdays intense humidity, no doubt.  It will be warmer today, in the mid- to upper 80's.

The hummingbirds continue to make frequent appearances at the feeder. In fact, they had drained it and He Who Must Play Tennis had to hop to and whip up another batch of nectar for what he calls his hummer-buddies.  They are such gregarious little birds, not at all put off by our presence on the deck when they have their sights set on the feeder.

It's fall officially now but we will still have a long time to wait before we see any autumn color here.  If any of you in the more colorful, cooler climes happen to have a camera and would e-mail a picture of your autumn, we'll post it and enjoy a bit of your fall color too.

Be safe. 

Friday, September 21st, some clouds: It's 73 more-like-summer degrees on my back porch at 7:20 this morning, humid and still.  There will be mixed sun and clouds today and a high again in the low to mid-80's and maybe a shower or two.

Just 35 minutes after I began trying to log on this morning, here I am--finally typing.  There were many iterations of sign on, CTRL-ALT-DEL, sign on again, safe mode, sign off, back on, and sloo-oooow response.  I think my computer is as out-of-sorts this morning as I am.  Bio- and cyber-rhythms are definitely down, maybe worldwide!

There is so much change in our world right now, locally and globally.  Trying to keep up with the changes, working to understand them, and trying to evaluate their impact on present and future is draining, at least for me.  I also sense that same fatigue in others.  We move on because we must and because we are responsible adults, but if the footing is a little less secure than we thought it was or if the way ahead is a bit less focused than it used to be, the moving forward becomes more of an effort, even if we are unaware of it or refuse to acknowledge it.  I think that's why dogged determination is often couched as "grim".  

Anyway, I think we are all due for a weekend--and I'm speaking globally as I have no doubt that this feeling extends far beyond this island, this state, this nation.  We need something that is recreative, a pause to reflect and renourish, and then to return to the business of going on.  I hope each of us can find that weekend soon. 

Thursday, September 20th, showers? It's 67 slightly more humid  degrees on my back porch at 7:25 this morning.  The wind has shifted back around to out of the south, bringing us more humid air and a chance of thundershowers.  Otherwise, partly cloudy and a high in the low to mid-80s.

With the advent of cooler weather fall and winter visitors begin to make appearances.  The butterfly population is beginning to grow and I saw a half dozen ducks flying across the lagoon against the late afternoon sky.  There will be may more butterflies in the next few days and by winter our ponds and lagoons will host flotillas of waterfowl.  I look forward to their return as one of the markers of the Kiawah year.

There are winter visitors of the human variety who will be making their return soon also.  We look forward to their homecoming too! 

Wednesday, September 19th, a it warmer: It's 62 calm degrees on my back porch at 7:15 this morning.  The bright, clear weather continues today with the high creeping up a couple of degrees to the low to mid-80's.  Lower humidity will still be the day's blessing.

We continue to watch the construction of both new Johns Island bridges.  What a huge undertaking.  It is interesting to track the course of evolving construction as pilings march across the marsh and pylons rise into the air.

We have a new gator residing in a nearby lagoon.  You may remember that our gator (and maybe two gators) were summarily removed from the smaller of the two lagoons near us during the summer.  He Who Must Play Tennis spotted this new youngster as he was coming home last evening and he was still there on the pond edge as we left a short time later.  I'm glad we have another one in residence.  Seeing them always reminds me of our shared ownership of this island.

Tuesday, September 18th, pleasant: It's 60 brisk degrees on my back porch at 7:15 this morning.  We should have another pleasant fall day much like yesterday.  The sun was strong and warm and the breeze, especially early and late, was cool.  High again around 80 with decreased breeze.

A week has passed since the tragic events in NYC and DC.  It seems so much longer.  I can only begin to imagine the excruciatingly painful passage of time felt by those people who have loved ones still missing.  There would seem to be only the very slightest chance that any of those missing could yet be alive in the rubble.  At some point, we will have to admit that reality. I don't know how I would feel as a relative of a person missing there about continuing the recovery.  It's such a grisly reality of what is actually being recovered.  I've thought about the site being leveled, covered and made into an open park, a beautiful greenspace amid the concrete city, a living memorial to replace the images we all have of death and destruction.

Here on Kiawah it remains quiet and beautiful.  There ARE a few people around.  Yesterday we had the door to the shop open and were treated to a symphony of sound courtesy of two mockingbirds.

Monday, September 17th, sunshine: It's 60 brisk degrees on my back porch at 7:15 this morning.  It looks as though it will be another beautiful day here, lots of sunshine, a bit of a breeze, and a high around 80.

It also looks as though this is going to be a very quiet week here.  There is very little traffic or movement around the island, few cars in the regime lots, and only scattered cars at the Straw Market.  The tennis courts are all but deserted and I think we could set up bowling lanes in the Piglet's aisles at times during the day.  September is always a slower time here and this year I think a lot of travel plans have been put on hold.  We will see as the week progresses.

Molly and Zoë are enjoying the cooler weather, weather that means the doors to the porches are open and they can be "outside."  Of course they are seeking the sunny spots for naps and Molly had retreated to her snuggly spot under the bed by early this morning and has disappeared back to the same spot now, although I periodically hear her yowling for company.

Sunday, September 16th, sunshine: It's 64 degrees on my back porch at 8:15 this morning.  The sky is blue and the sun is shining, it's cool and breezy--a beautiful Lowcountry autumn morning a few weeks early.  It will continue to be breezy today with a high in the mid-70's later in the day.

The wind has contributed to some pretty dramatic high tides over the last 36 hours.  My gauge, other than seeing how full the river marsh is as I cross the bridge, is how much water has flooded into the low-lying verges along the sides of the KI Parkway.  Last night, an hour past high tide, there were still good-sized pools of water as we returned to the island.  I had noticed as I left in the morning that the current of the receding tide was much stronger than usual also.

The wind we experienced brought down a lot of pine straw and cones, even faster than Mr. Squirrel can hurl them down upon the back deck!  I think I'll take advantage of the nice weather, walk around a bit and see if I can find some particularly nice cones to collect.  An excuse to be outside, smelling the air, feeling the sun on my face, and recharging the spirit.

Saturday, September 15th, wind: It's 64 degrees on my back porch at 7:10 AM, cloudy and very breezy.  A strong wind is causing the treetops to really dance this morning.  We have gale warnings posted as well as shallow flood warnings along the coast at high tide.  Continued cloudy and breezy throughout the day with a high in the mid-70's.

It's chilly and breezy enough outside that Zoë didn't want to be out there very long and Molly declined the opportunity to go out on the deck at all.  Maybe when the sun shines again.  In the meantime, I think they will be content to lie inside and squint at the outdoors in that inscrutable feline way.

I don't know if today's weather is caused by TS Gabrielle or the approaching front from the northwest or (most likely) the convergence of the two.  This is like an old-fashioned nor'easter, the storms we had back before we had satellites or techno-weatherpersons who could ascribe more technical names to the same storms. In any case, it's a blustery, cool morning.  There will be more warm weather to come, but this is the clarion call of a season's change.

Friday, September 14th, much the same: It's 71 degrees on my back porch at 7:10 AM, a bit gray and just a light breeze blowing along the marsh edge.  A few birds are chattering this morning, but there's little else stirring yet.  Perhaps as the sun peeks through.  Partly cloudy again today and high near 80.

Yesterday was very fall-like, overcast a good part of the day, a couple heavy showers and pleasantly warm, not hot.  The leaves on the river birch have begun to turn brown and drop, the beginning of their very extended slide into winter.

I have an idea.  It started out as an off-hand remark to He Who Must Play Tennis as I listened to news reports of the monetary costs of this week's events and their consequences, specifically that Congress will authorize expenditure of $40 billion dollars.  I said, "Maybe we should return our tax rebate."  And as I said it, I really began to think about it.  Why DON'T we return the rebate?  For a good number of people, the rebate was not a significant amount of money (I think I can include most Kiawah and Seabrook property owners in that sweeping statement!)  However, if a goodly number of citizens returned the rebate, the amount could be significant.  Obviously, it would not come close to $40B, but it would be something!  The tax rebate was little more than a gesture anyway, and our returning it would be an answering gesture of support when our country and government needs it.

Am I being incredibly naive?  Possibly.  But, it's something I can do as an individual that can be multiplied geometrically by lots of other individuals joining in.  For some reason, I can't let go of this notion.  So, what do you think, guys?

Thursday, September 13th, mixed: It's 72 degrees on my back porch at 7:10 AM, dark still, and quiet.  The days have definitely shortened.  Expect a mix of sun and clouds today and a few showers, like the one that has just this minute started here.  High around 80.

It's hard for me to "get back to normal"--whatever "normal" is or will be these days.  But I know that's what we need to do.  Keep going and moving forward.  Looking back and remembering, yes, but drawing determination and strength from the outrage and pain.  May these horrible acts become the catalyst for something ultimately good.  But that's hard to see right now.

This is one of those times when the nearly painful beauty of our surroundings feeds my soul.  Sunset for the past two nights has been beautiful.  Not the extravagant bursts of color that will come later in the year, but beautiful pink and orange washes of color that tint fully half the sky.  We stood for a time at the marsh edge last evening, watching the play of light and hearing the gentle lap and wash of the river in the marsh grasses.  An egret flew across the sky on its way to its evening roost on the nearby lagoon, but all else was still, calm and beautiful--the sun going down as it always does, leaving a parting gift of light that foreshadows the next dawn.

Peace, friends.

Wednesday, September 12th: In a fleeting moment, what had been the start of a sunny late summer day became the surreal start of a day few Americans will forget. In a fleeting moment, loosely organized plans for the day's chores and activity dissolved into a miasma of nearly paralytic disbelief as unimaginable, horrific images seared into the collective memory. In a fleeting moment, the world became much smaller, its dangers much closer, and its evil face much more familiar. In a fleeting moment, families and friendships have been rent, our notion of personal and national security has shifted, and our world is no longer quite what it was such a short time ago. In one fleeting moment, everything changed.

Somehow, the weather on my back porch seems superfluous today.

Tuesday, September 11th, maybe some clouds: It's 75 degrees on my back porch at 7:10 this morning.  It's still and damp out there and pretty quiet.  The crows will soon be awake and will change all of that in a hurry.  Right now there's just a bit of soft twittering.  Sunshine again today (and it's still quite strong) and some clouds now and again.  As always, a chance of a shower.  High in the low 80's.  Nice.

I hate to sleep soundly for a couple of hours and then all of a sudden be wide awake in the deep middle of the night.  But scattered insomnia has its benefits.  You get to spend quality time with your cats who think it's breakfast time come early (and will of course forget by 7 am that they've already been fed).  You get to read another chapter or two in your book (including the page you read twice before as you were drifting off to sleep the first time and still have no idea what was said).  You get to cruise through some pretty bizarre late night TV infomercials for products that are going to make our lives richer, prettier and firmer, including a rather bizarre electronic ab toner (but I did learn that Michael Jordan will announce his return to the NBA soon).  And you get to spend time out on the porch in a world we rarely visit, one that is surprisingly active--at least that's how it seems from the soft rustlings I heard in the brush.

The major down side is that the second sleep, the one that takes you into what should be restful morning, ready for the new day, is very short and never quite finished when the rest of the world wants you to be awake.  Look around today.  See who's yawning or a bit bleary-eyed or just a step slow.  Ask if they know about the Ab-Tronic.

Monday, September 10th, mostly sunny, maybe: It's 75 degrees on my back porch at 7:10 this morning.  We awake in near darkness these days, with just a touch of gray light spreading into the night.  But by now, a soft golden glow lights the eastward-facing windows, hinting of the sunlight to come.  A cardinal sings his clear song and urges the morning along.  Breakfast on the porch will soon be pleasant again.  Sunny today with some clouds now and again and perhaps a sprinkle of rain just to keep the mosquitoes happy.  High in the low to mid-80's.

I read in the paper that local authorities in Florida have moved to curtail tourist excursions out to see sharks.  The sharks are drawn by baiting the water with bloody flesh.  Here on Kiawah we work hard to keep people from overtly or inadvertently feeding the alligators because once a 'gator makes the connection between a person on a lagoon bank with a food handout, the 'gator will swim right for the person on the bank.  Do we think sharks are any less savvy about food sources?  We may not have a shark problem at all; it may be a people problem.

Hummingbirds continue to visit our feeder after a long period of seeing none.  I think the word is out that Zoë has lost a step or two in her maturity and is not quite the threat she once was.  That's good news for all of us.  I love to be out on the deck and have one of the little critters buzz me.  A hum, a brush of air, a quick look, and ZIP!  it's gone!  Did I really see it?

Sunday, September 9th, mixed: It's 73 degrees on my back porch at 8:20 this morning.  We started the day with some sunshine lighting a few clouds with orange and gold light, but we have slipped into overcast skies and a few sprinkles at present.  That's likely to be the pattern for the day, periods of sun and clouds and maybe a shower or two.  High in the low to mid-80's.

He Who Must Play Tennis reports seeing a bald-headed eagle yesterday as he returned home.  It swooped low above him, just clearing the treetops.  He wasn't able to watch long because there was a deer in the street ahead of him.  Fewer people and lower temperatures seem to bring the critters out a bit more.

Zoë has been having a late lie-in this morning and has only just arrived on the scene to supervise keyboarding..  She knows she has a somewhat captive audience and is likely to get a nice back rub out of the visitation.  She usually does.

We note the formation of the season's first hurricane, Erin.  It's well out at sea and to the north of us and without some freak gyration and meteorological collusion poses no threat to us.  Still it does capture our attention, doesn't it?

Friday evening, September 7th, pretend it's Saturday morning: It's 78 degrees on my back porch at 9:10 this evening and very dark outside.  As usual, the cicadas are singing tonight, and I'm sure if I listened closely, I could hear mosquitoes humming along.  Tomorrow should bring mostly sunshine with still a chance of a shower now and again.  High in the mid-80's.

The later sunrise, my need to be at work early now, as well as the time needed to indulge myself in chatting here on my porch have all conspired to make it nearly impossible to continue to get in a little pool exercise in the morning.  So, I decided to write a little tonight and see if I can get to the pool AND to work on time tomorrow!

As for many people, there's a strong link for me between the sense of smell and memory.  Today it was the smell of sun-warmed freshly cut grass that whisked me back more years than I care to admit. The temperature, humidity level and smell carried me back to many a summer's day when I was growing up.  For most of that time we didn't have air conditioning and the house was open to whatever was going on outside.  We had a large yard that seemed to need mowing every few days.  As we grew older, that chore fell to my brother and me (more to my brother in the later years as I was moved indoors to domestic chores and cooking.)  That smell was prevalent during the summer, especially in the early evening after the afternoon sun had warmed the clippings.  One whiff this afternoon and I was in my parent's house breathing grass clippings and roses and wondering how long I could put off getting the dinner table set.

The Kiawah Island Triathlon will be run, swum, and biked on Sunday.  No wonder I'm feeling like a slug!

Friday, September 7th, nice: It's 71 degrees on my back porch at 7:15 this morning  The sun is beginning to brighten the treetops and a few birds are starting their early morning chatter. We should have a pleasant day, in the mid-80's and much less humid.

You could feel the humidity blowing away yesterday afternoon.  It was wonderful.  I walked on the beach for a while, swishing through the wash of waves and enjoying the sand beneath my feet and the warm water swirling around my ankles.  The air was cooler than the water and I was keenly aware that with every wash of a wave on the shore, the east wind blew away some of the water's warmth.  I saw no fins--dolphins, sharks or otherwise--just a few sanderlings and gulls.  And no shells to speak of.

It's good to stand at the edge of the ocean, to look out to the horizon, seeing nothing but water and realizing you're seeing only the tiniest bit.  Wondering how many other small persons are similarly standing at water's edge somewhere else along a shore, drawing strength from its elemental substance and comfort from its constancy.  We are very lucky to live close to an ocean shore, an intersection of three universes, the land, the sea, and the sky.  If you haven't visited your ocean lately, today might be a good day to do so!

Thursday, September 6th, remember sunshine? It's 73 degrees on my back porch at 7:15 this morning and the sky actually is clearing.  We should be treated to a mostly sunny day, high in the mid-80's with no rain in the forecast.

Of course, we shouldn't put a whole lot of stock in forecasts, it would appear from today's paper.  In light of Mother Nature's not living up to the first half of the hurricane season's forecast, the weather experts have admitted that in spite of their very expensive and sophisticated toys and soothsayers, they haven't a clue why not.  We along the SE coast all are just very thankful!

We watched the Sampras-Agassi duel at the US Open last night--there's always one match that keeps us up late, watching 'til the bitter end.  This morning Molly started her Wake 'Em Up Dance very early, for no apparent reason other than sheer mischief.  She's having breakfast now, in preparation for her early morning nap, no doubt.  Grrrrrrr!

We should have a chance to dry out today after yesterday's incredibly hard downpours.  When I left to drive to work, the rain was falling so hard it was difficult to see and the storm drains were being overwhelmed by the run-off.  Certainly we have gone a long way toward alleviating the drought during the past month.

Wednesday, September 5th, more of the same: It's 73 degrees on my back porch at 7:15 this morning.  We are having a morning thundershower, not severe by any means, but definitely there.  I'm sure this is NOT music to our visitors' ears, or mine either since it probably means no chance for a pre-work visit to the pool.  Partly cloudy remains the call for the day with more showers possible.  High in the mid-80's.

There was some sort of egret gathering yesterday afternoon.  We were headed into town and in the marsh near the Stono Bridge, there was a congregation of 20 or so egrets standing in the marsh grasses with a dozen or so more circling in to land.  They didn't appear to be fishing or foraging, just standing.  I don't know what that was all about!

The clouds parted enough last night on the way back home so that we could see the just-past-full moon.  It was at the stage where it's not quite high enough to burn bright silver.  Instead it glows with a warm ivory color--the color of the old, pre-fluorescent lights that I remember in my primary school classrooms.

It's raining harder now but still I can hear a cardinal out in the undergrowth calling for the morning.

Tuesday, September 4th, showers:  It's 73 damp degrees on my back porch at 7:15 this morning.  The sun is up, I can see its light, but it's hardly what I'd call shining.  Clouds remain from last night and we will probably see more showers during the day ad a high in the low to mid-80's.

We took an early morning walk and returned just as a light sprinkle began.  It was very quiet out there, no critters to be seen (HWMPT insists they were all watching us), and no birdsong.  Even the egrets were still huddled on their branches around the lagoon, quiet and still.  A few birds struck up a few chords just before the brief shower, but no morning symphony.  A rest after the busy summer?

In light of this weekend's shark activity in Virginia and North Carolina, I would say that there's one mean shark with a taste for swimmer that's working his way south.  I don't think spending much time in the ocean off SC in a couple of days is a good idea.  What a strange phenomenon this seems to be.  Perhaps we have gone just a bit past "normal" now.  In any case, the pool is terrific and most of the pool "sharks" have gone home now!

Monday, September 3rd, cooler:  It's 73 damp degrees on my back porch at 8:15 this morning.  The sun is shining a bit weakly through the cloud cover that remains from last night's showers.  It will be partly cloudy during the day with a chance of more thunder and showers and a high in the mid- to low 80's.

It's Labor Day, one of those holidays that I think has lost all connection to its commemorative intent.  Now it's more Good-bye to Summer/Hello to Fall Day.  I remember its "Labor" Day intent mainly because one of my favorite quotes comes from a Labor Day address by Teddy Roosevelt:  "Among the best that life has to offer is the opportunity to work hard at work worth doing."  Not a bad precept for life.

After a dearth of hummingbirds for a while, we have one visiting our feeder again.  They are HWMPT's favorite bird and he has kept the feeder charged for many months with no visitors.  It was a treat to have one buzz up to the glass door yesterday, hover there for a bit, seemingly to get our attention, and then zip over to the feeder and imbibe.  He has been back already this morning and we hope he will bring friends next time!

He Who Must Play Tennis is on his way to do labor on the tennis court.  I hope your day is as pleasant.

Saturday, September 1st, hot:  It's 74 degrees on my back porch at 7:15 this morning.  There's actually some blue sky and white wispy clouds up there -  but still not a lot of birdsong.  Saving up for the fall fling, I guess.  A bit cooler today with a high in the mid 80s.  Still a chance for a shower. 

We had a bit of rain last night, but mostly we had thunder and lightning.  Nothing severe but for nearly three hours the skies boomed and flickered.  Actually quite enjoyable.

He Who Must Play Tennis has started our day with sweet potato/buckwheat pancakes with pecans.  And he has made a happy discovery -- another jar of sourwood honey with comb!  If you've never tried sourwood honey, you have missed a real delicacy.  We get it from the NC mountains (except this last batch came from Winston-Salem from a man who takes his bees to the mountains to "vacation" among the sourwood trees!),  It's honey with wonderful flavor that goes way beyond just sweet!  My daddy loved it and we grew up going to the mountains and bringing home a jar or two.  When HWMPT started eating at our house and learned about sourwood, he was hooked.  We plan trips around our sourwood needs!  Fall is the perfect time to restock -- and to visit the mountains.

Do you have Labor Day plans?  Whatever they are, have a safe and happy holiday!

Thursday, August 30th, much like yesterday:  It's 75 degrees on my back porch at 7:10 this morning, just beginning to brighten, and very still.  I hear no birdsong at the moment.  Ah! there's a twitter!  We haven't been deserted after all!  High again near 90 with a continued chance for showers.

I was reminded yesterday by a loyal reader about Miss Spider and her kin.  While I still have not seen the large congregations of Golden silks this year, I do have a lovely one who built and maintains an intricate web outside my office window.  I view the web from the side and it really is an engineering marvel.  This web is multiplanar with silk platforms that are oriented at different angles.  The main web, where she spends much of her time, is canted slightly forward and catches sunshine and lots of bugs.  Behind the main web are a couple secondary webs, each tilted a bit more under the eaves of the house.  I wondered about this construction until one day when we had a pretty heavy rain shower.  As I watched from the desk, the spider retreated from her main web to the back web and avoided the rather substantial amount of water that was sliding off the roof at that point.  Pretty smart!

I've noted a healthy crop of French mulberry this year.  Commonly called Beauty berry, this shrub is easy to spot.  It has bright purple berries in clusters close to the stem--a color that surprises and delights.  There's quite a bit of it growing alongside the leisure trails.

Wednesday, August 29th, partly cloudy:  It's 75 degrees on my back porch at 7:00 this morning, a bit overcast at present, and more than slightly muggy.  There was a little lightning flashing weakly in the pre-dawn hours, and the chance of thunderstorms will linger throughout the day. High near 90.

OK, who stole about 10 days in August?  Wow! can it really be the 29th? The individual days mount up so quickly!

One of the things I love about the marsh is its very deceptive changeability.  When one first sees it, one could be impressed by its sweep and grace and expanse, but one would hardly look at it and think wow! look how it has changed.  But stay around the marsh for enough time to really see it, and one soon learns to spot its changes.  Yesterday as we were driving into town in the late afternoon/early evening, there it was again--another look.  The grasses have "suddenly" acquired a more yellow hue, losing the dark summer green as they begin the slow retreat into winter rest.  The late summer slant of light and the slightly darkened sky provided perfect backdrop and spotlight to really play up the new color.  As with every marsh change, this one was spectacular--but quietly so!

Tuesday, August 28th, continued summery:  It's 75 degrees on my back porch at 7:00 this morning .  There's another nice breeze blowing today and the increased humidity makes the air feel very soft.  The day's light is just beginning to top the trees and a few birds are singing and a couple of crows are calling.  It's a nice morning.  Increased chance of thundershowers today and a high near 90.

A question was posed to me yesterday:  why do we not have lightning rods on houses here?  This is an especially pertinent question since a Kiawah home was damaged pretty significantly by lightning and a resulting fire last week.  We would seem a pretty prime locale for their use.  We do have lots of tall trees that can take the strikes, but not as many as pre-Hugo and before the development boom of the last few years.  Kiawah would seem to be a good market for lightning protection.

My grandparents lived on the Outer Banks--Manteo--and I remember that houses there bristled with the iron rods.  They were actually fashioned a bit like ornamentation with prongs and barbs and porcelain balls, and a house had at least one on each peaked eave and some had them spaced across the entire roofline.  A wire led from the rod on the roof down to another one in the ground.  They must have worked.  There were few tall trees on the Banks and I don't recall a lightning-generated fire.  And believe me, such an occurrence would have been fodder for discussion for months, even years.  It would have passed into the island collective memory, used as a marker of time and place:  "Before the lightning struck Miz ____'s house"--"About three houses down from where the lightning struck..."  Anyway, it's an interesting question--why no lightning rods here?

Monday, August 27th, hot:  It's 73 degrees on my back porch at 7:00 this morning .  Birds are singing and the sun is peeking through and it's a lovely day in the neighborhood.  It will warm up a little today--into the low 90's--with the threat of thunderstorms here and there.

After dinner talk among friends centered on "community"--what is it, what nurtures it, and do we have any here.  It's an intriguing discussion because like so many things we take for granted in the fabric of our lives, it's pretty complex.  And in a place like Kiawah, where we have all come from somewhere else to be here for some period of our lives, the discussion is even more complex.  It is an interesting discussion, though, and one that will be engaged in more often over the coming months.

One thing that we did agree on was that community is built upon shared experiences.  Were you here during Hugo?  Do you remember the evening gatherings at the Jasmine Porch where a $5 evening buffet was offered to all of us on the island working without electric power to get things back to post-Hugo normal?  The hot meal was an absolute treat, but more important was the gathering of neighbors, sharing information and experiences, pooling resources, gathering encouragement, and finding lots to laugh about.  That was certainly a reflection of community.

I'll tell you another instance of a community builder--Bob Cowgill.  I met him early in our tenure here and learned so much about the nature of our island from him.  The Naturalists Club traveled to the wilds of the East End, walked the park, looked up into the trees and down at our feet.  Bob led us and taught us and then shared his love for this environment with many, many more through his Nature Trails essays.  I was sad to read in the Talk that his 100th column would be his last.  He's the kind of person who helps underpin a community and we are all the richer for his generous sharing of his love for nature, learning, and this island.  Institutions and edifices do not make a community; generous, sharing, caring, participating people do.

Sunday, August 26th, very nice:  It's 86 degrees at 5:00 this afternoon and it's a gorgeous late summer afternoon on my back porch--sunny, warm but not hot, and little humidity.  There's a moderate breeze blowing and it's altogether a porch day!

My morning started early again today, and in order to get in some pool exercise and get to the store in time for early opening, if I were to have tried to write morning report, I would have had to be up so early that no one would have wanted to hear what I would have had to say anyway!  So, it's an afternoon porch report today!

The last two mornings have at least had the good grace to be beautiful ones.  On both occasions, the golf courses have been sprayed with a light dusting of glimmering dew and the sun has tinted the sky (and the air, it would seem!) soft coral.  There's a great blue heron evidently assigned to stand attractively at the edge of one of the lagoons along Kiawah Beach Drive because I have seen him at that spot both mornings, adding just the right accent to the Kiawah postcard view.  It's actually a good thing to be up and out early here.

The island is definitely much quieter this week.  When I left the Island Center at 3 PM today, there were only about 8 cars in the parking lot.  It has been a long time since I have seen that!  The pool affords lots of square footage per occupant, and the leisure trails are nearly empty.  There are still visitors here, including the one I saw riding down the bike trail, cell phone clamped to his ear--this at 7 AM on a Sunday morning.  It takes a while for some to understand the concept of "leisure" trail!

Saturday, August 25th, nice:  It's 72 pleasant degrees on my back porch at 6:50 this morning.  The sky looks fairly clear and there's light breeze causing the treetops to sway.  Sunny today with a high in the upper 80's.

He Who Must Play Tennis is fortifying himself for the day's game with pancakes--buckwheat/sweet potato with fresh peaches.  Looks good, but I've already indulged in a whole luscious peach with yogurt.  Yum!  Got to eat them while they are still available.  Of course, scuppernongs are coming in now, too, so the choices are many.

Morning starts early for me today so I must run.  Hope you have a wonderful late summer weekend!

Friday, August 24th, continued hot:  It's 74 degrees on my back porch at 7:10 this morning.  There are a few clouds in the sky--all of the non-threatening variety at present.  Expect partly cloudy skies and highs again in the low 90's.

There are a few birds singing this morning, most notably a cardinal.  He's not in our yard but away somewhere.  His clear whistle sounds through the other morning chatter.  Even if you can't see him, you always know when he's around.

I have seen a swarm of hummingbirds for the past two days--or do they come in flurries like butterflies?  They certainly don't seem large enough to comprise a flock or a gaggle!  Anyway, there were a dozen or so besieging a bottle brush tree near the Sandcastle pool.  I watched them from the pool as they swooped and danced, feinted rushing attacks on each other, and then perched on an overhanging branch for the briefest of rests before they started their dance all over again.  Between the hummingbirds and a few dragonflies of nearly the same size, thee have been some wonderful aerobatic displays.

Thursday, August 23rd, sunny and hot:  It's 73 degrees on my back porch at 7:20 this morning.  The sky is clear and blue and there's the tiniest breeze wafting. Sunny skies today and a wee bit hotter, in the low 90's.

If you were out last evening for any of the 20-30 minutes surrounding actual sunset, you were treated to a beautiful color and light show.  The sky turned soft blue with a peachy pink haze closer to the horizon.  The few clouds in the sky were just enough to catch and reflect pink-gold highlights -- the last rays flung skyward by the setting sun.  The sun itself was a distinct red fiery ball, worthy of any idealized picture of sunset over an African plain.  What a treat and all for free -- sun, marsh, sky, and river.

There's good news today.  All phone lines are operational again and Michael Jordan has taken another step to returning to NBA player status.  Even if his return goes the way of most pro athlete returns, I look forward to seeing him dance about the court, fake a young draftee or an old veteran out of his socks and sink a jumper--one more time!

Wednesday, August 22nd, sunny:  It's 73 degrees on my back porch at 7:10 this morning, clear sky and a light breeze in the treetops.  Sunshine today with the high again in the upper 80's.  Not bad at all!

From my vantage point, it would appear that very important people take their vacation in the third week of August.  That's based solely on the inordinate number of folks I have seen in the past two days with cell phones either pressed to their ears, chatting away, or phone in hand, ready for instant action.  Walking through the Piglet, driving in cars, buying a NY Times and reading the headlines into the phone.  I think there's a part of their "vacation" that they are missing!

Speaking of phones, our cul-de-sac is still phoneless with the exception of one line in our house.  The advantage--not one telemarketer has chatted me up for two whole days!

I've seen ospreys with fish in tow each of the last two days as I have returned across the marsh.  Either the fishing is very good right now on the river or the tide timing is right.

Tuesday, August 21st,  a bit drier:  It's 74 degrees on my back porch at 7:10 this morning and the sky is noticeably brighter than it was yesterday. We will see sunshine off and on through the day and with any luck, no rain.  But there's always a chance of a thunderstorm.  High in the upper 80's.

Last evening's sharp storm took out two phone lines in our house.  We knew about one of them last night and spent a very long time waiting to report it to the phone company.  Stephan assured me it should be taken care of within 48 hours.  It wasn't until this morning when I tried to sign on that we discovered that the second line was blown also.  Thank goodness the third line remained intact and it was only a mild scurry to find out which outlets tied into this line.  I hate it when technology turns ugly!

If you look closely, you can see that the fall flowers are being set on plants like sumac and salt myrtle.  After the August lull, fall here is almost like a mini-spring as a whole new palette of flowers paints the roadside.  It's something to look forward to over the next several weeks.

Monday, August 20th,  much like yesterday:  It's 76 degrees on my back porch at 7:10 this morning. The sky seems overcast at the moment--I don't think it's merely that the days have noticeably shortened as we move inexorably through the season.  It will be partly cloudy again today with the high temp in the upper 80's with a 50/50 chance of more showers. 8:45 AM update:  make that a 100% chance of showers.  It's wet out there!

Zoë is nearly her old self again, eating, drinking and patrolling the deck.  All of a sudden yesterday, food--any food--held interest again.  It's good to have her back.

The recently planted grasses along the Casablanca overpass on the KI Parkway are in full bloom now and they really look nice.  I'm sure it's a relief for the landscape crew who had to mow that section by hand.

The crowds have thinned a bit here but it's still busy--fewer families with school-age kids, though.  It's a good time to be here--the water is warm and the air definitely is!  Mosquitoes are a nuisance right now and there are growing reports of jellyfish--but maybe the sharks will take care of them!

Sunday, August 19th,  a bit cooler:  It's 76 degrees on my back porch at 7:20 this morning. The sky is clearing in the south, but still overcast elsewhere and that's the pattern we are likely to see throughout the day--partly sunny and the heat just a bit less stultifying, in the upper 80's.  Still humid, though, and a 50/50 chance of thunderstorms.

Zoë's mystery malaise continues.  No fever, no obvious distress, just lethargy and no appetite.  We have tried to tempt her with all kinds of food and have resorted to forcing just a bit of water into her mouth with a syringe.  I am beginning to suspect a hunger strike for her favorite food, raw shrimp.  So that's the next thing we try!  The good news is that she is on the deck haphazardly licking rain water from some of the plants--that's actually her favorite source of water.  HWMPT brought a potted plant indoors during one of the showers last evening to tempt her into drinking a little, but there was only mild, brief interest.  But her nose is cool and slightly moist and she doesn't seem to be in any pain, so we just watch and wait.

We are in the summer simmer--lots of heat, humidity and an occasional splash of liquid to keep us basting.  Stay cool

Saturday, August 18th, 9: 30 AM, running late:  This is a "stand-in" report, as Mrs. HWMPT has sent word that she's running behind schedule.  We'll have to do without her "pearls" for a bit.  Maybe she'll catch up later in the day.

Today feels like more of same:  hot, humid, partly cloudy, chance of showers.  Look for the temperature to perhaps reach 90, with a heat index over 100 in the hot spots.  It wouldn't be a bad idea to take things slowly if you're outside.  If you can, catch a sea breeze at the beach. 

One of the golf course greens keepers commented this morning about the large number of people playing golf in the brutal August heat.  He said he couldn't understand it, but since it's good for business he definitely wasn't complaining.  Bless him, he didn't even mention mad dogs . . .

The ailing Zoë was carted off to the veterinarian's office yesterday afternoon.  Word is she's recuperating, but from what, this reporter hasn't been told. Anyway, the good news is she's on the mend. 

If you've driven down the parkway lately you will have noticed that many of the recently-installed natural plantings are growing like - yep, you guessed it - weeds. 
Sometimes, in our enthusiasm to fill bare spaces, we tend to forget that scrawny young plants, if they succeed in taking hold, grow up rather quickly to become big bushy plants. 

Have a great day, and stay cool, whatever you do.

Thursday, August 16th, continued sunny:   It's 72 degrees on my back porch at 7:15 this morning.  The sky is clearing and we should have another beautiful day.  Even though it was hot yesterday--and will be around 90 again today--there was a wonderful breeze blowing and it was acceptably comfortable in the shade.

Zoë's breakfast--the same kibble and three treats--was once again acceptable today, or she had become resigned to the fact that until she manufactures an opposable thumb for herself, kibble may be the best she'll get!

There really is a somnolence about this time of the summer.  Perhaps the realization that summer is soon to be past causes people to savor the remaining days more.  We see a lot of vacationers here and some of them move quite rapidly through their week or two, zipping here and there, "making the most" of every moment.  By this time of the season, however, there are a lot more people "drifting" through their stay.  It's as though by August we've learned the art of creative sitting, and then wham!  it's September again!  Find a porch or tree or beach chair sometime soon and sit, watch, and absorb.  Recharge those batteries because there's a "to do" list with your name on it being compiled somewhere!

Wednesday, August 15th, sunny:   It's 71 comfortable degrees on my back porch at 7:15 this morning.  The morning clouds are clearing and the sun is beginning to shine through.  We should have mostly sunshine throughout today and tomorrow and a high around 90.  Beach days!

Breakfast did not meet with Zoë's approval this morning.  She had her usual kibble and three crunchy treats in her bowl.  She ate the treats and then headed out for deck recon.  After a short spin around the wet deck, she was back at the door staring up pitifully, waiting to catch my attention and give the silent meow entreaty to come in.  Once in, she went back to her bowl, investigated, and then the usually quiet feline let us know just how unsatisfactory the contents of the bowl were.  This does not bode well.

There has definitely been considerable rain in the past several days and surprisingly, I haven't heard any frogs.  Usually after heavy rain, we are treated to a croaking chorister concert for a couple of nights.  Could they have gone the way of the rails and spiders this year?  What gives?

Tuesday, August 14th, cloudy:   It's 75 dripping degrees on my back porch at 7:15 this morning.  Mostly cloudy is the forecast for today and there's a continued chance for showers throughout the day.  A little cooler, though, with a high in the mid-80's.

We had quite an extended thunderstorm last night.  There were only a few thunderclaps of the sharp, cracking type, but mainly about an hour's worth of sustained rumbles.  The thunder sounded as though it began at one end of the island and them rolled to the other end.  As soon as one rumble faded another one began right on its heels.  Large bowling balls transiting down miles-long alleys.  There was lots of lightning also, again not the sharp, forked bolts, just sustained and continuous flashes.  Sort of a comforting thunderstorm, if there can be such.

The birds have braved the wet and dripping branches and are greeting the gray morning with chipper songs.  Time to get moving--there's a new day waiting to be lived.

Monday, August 13th, sunny:   It's 75 humid degrees on my back porch at 7:15 this morning.  It's a bit overcast, but I think it's mainly morning haze and the sun will peek around the clouds soon.  There will be some clouds throughout the day and the chance of a thundershower this afternoon.  High near 90.

The flowers in my deck pots are beginning to look summer weary--and they have earned that right since they have been blooming profusely for several months now.  This is a transition time here in SC as many of the grasses and native plants set seeds and begin to rest a bit from a long and vigorous growing season.  But even as that happens, fall plants begin to stir.

Sunday, August 12th, sunny:   It's 90 sultry degrees on my back porch at 12:15 this afternoon.  Even in this noonday heat we have some birds chirping away, mainly some jays and wrens, but I'm impressed any birds are showing such energy.  High today again in the 90's, but it is just slight less humid than it has been the past few days.

Today started with an early morning session at the Sandcastle pool.  We awoke to the offshore rumble of thunder and I feared that the early exercise might be in jeopardy.  By 8:00, however, the rumbles had subsided although there were some pretty impressive thunderheads rising over the water.  They were quickly transiting to the north, however, and out of our concern.

The day is well underway and there's so much to be done.  Modern life is filled with so many time-saving conveniences, why is it we still have so much to do and so little time to do it in?  There comes a time repeatedly throughout life that we need to sit and contemplate Emerson's admonition: "Simplify, simplify, simplify!"  I would, in a instant...if I only had the time!!!

Saturday, August 11th, mostly sunny:   It's 76 degrees on my back porch at 6:15 this morning.  The morning light is slowly building and the sky looks mostly clear though hazy at this early hour.  Mostly sunny today with a high again in the low 90's.  

At least our friends to the north have gotten a bit of relief from the summer heat.  Heard of a Seabrook winter resident who spends the summer in New Hampshire who was spending a lot of time driving around in his car since it was air-conditioned and his home was not.  His Seabrook neighbor delighted in telling him it was 10 degrees cooler here in SC!

He Who Must Play Tennis has gone to take the boys to the train station for their early morning train home.  It was a frantic getaway since HWMPT's alarm clock chose last night to quit.  I awoke out of a dead sleep with the distinct feeling that something was awry.  I looked at the clock and sure enough it was 5 minutes before they were supposed the leave.  The two teenagers were up, albeit groggy, and lugging their baggage downstairs already.  Thank goodness the train is running a little behind schedule.  That is definitely NOT the preferred way to start a morning.

We think we have discovered the reason for Zoë's recent sleep-ins.  She's had the late night teen watch.  No doubt she will sleep well today and then get back on her early morning schedule.

Mid-August.  Can you believe it?  Time gallops.

Friday, August 10th, mostly sunny:   It's 78 degrees on my back porch at 7:00 this morning.  The sky is hazy, milky blue and the sun is shining.  High today will be around 90, slightly cooler than the last two days and definitely cooler than points north of here.  Lots of sunshine also.

Our cats seem to have switched roles.  Molly is now the early riser and deck patrol.  She often is the one that makes sure we are up at an appropriate hour, mainly to ensure that we get food into her bowl.  But then she usually quickly returns to her perch of choice for an early morning nap, leaving deck inspection to the usually very curious and early-morning-active Zoë.  Not this week.  Molly is up, out, and back in before she really checks out the food dish while Zoë remains asleep, sawing away with her little cat snores.  Our cats do have nine lives and they seem to be living some of them simultaneously.

Thursday, August 9th, heat advisory:   It's 76 degrees on my back porch at 7:00 this morning.  The sun is beginning to shine through the haze and morning cloud cover promising another hot and humid day.  High in the mid-90's.

As hot as it is here this week, we do at least have the benefit of a sea breeze.  Even yesterday afternoon, if you were in a shaded spot open to the breeze, it was not unbearable, just a South Carolina summer afternoon.  My sympathies to our friends in the Midwest and Northeast who are having higher temps than ours and who are not at all inured to it.  Yet another reason to come visit us here o Kiawah!

Today is back to school day in Charleston County, which means that school busses will once again prowl the roads in the morning and afternoon.  Watch carefully!

The Monarch butterflies are just beginning to drift in, or at least the very early scouts.  There were two of them dancing among the purple lantana blossoms yesterday.  The heat of August may decrease our flowers but the butterflies add their own colorful ornamentation.

Wednesday, August 8th, muggy and hot:   It's 76 degrees on my back porch at 7:00 this morning.  The sun is out and it promises to be another typical August day on Kiawah, hot and humid with the high again in the mid-90's.

The cardinal is in good voice this morning, singing a clear morning song, and I can see three tufted titmice playing tag around the branches of a tree just off the deck.  No sign of our more raucous morning visitors, the crows and jays, for the past couple of mornings.  There's also no sign of Zoë, who is still sleeping peacefully, one paw draped across her eyes to block any intruding light.

Good news on the bicycle front.  The boys reported the missing bikes to the bike rental company, who did not receive the news well and told the boys they would owe $200 for the bikes.  (Personal comment:  HAH!)  Anyway, armed with the serial numbers, they set off to search for their bikes.  They checked lots of parked bikes and eventually found theirs, pushed into some bushes.  Some good detective work!

I have to say it once again:  the marsh is particularly pretty right now with tall green grasses and high tides.  The tides are such right now that the good light early and late in the day coincide with the low tide, and it's pretty hot and blinding to be out at the noonday high tide, but if you are passing over the marsh, pay special attention to the full grown grasses.  Worth the look.

Tuesday, August 7th, muggy and hot:   It's 76 close degrees on my back porch at 7:00 this morning.  There's a hazy overcast and little breeze at present.  Clouds and haze will persist through a good bit of the day and the high will be around 90.  A dog day (apologies to Barney, Rocky and Duffy!)

It's not a comfortable business, becoming one's parent's parent.  Former limits and boundaries disappear and new authorities are established.  The child hears himself saying some of the same things he remembers being told many years ago.  And life concerns narrow once again to food, security and comfort.  A sobering business, indeed.

The visiting nephews learned an unhappy lesson last evening about just how far one's trust should extend here in the summertime.  They had ridden to Night Heron Park to check what was going on, a teen's major activity.  They stayed for only a short time and as they were getting ready to leave, found that their bikes had been taken.  This, unfortunately, is not an uncommon occurrence here,  another maddening example of total disregard for another person or another person's property.  Unfortunately, this probably teaches some that such personal regard is folly in the face one's immediate want, an attitude that can have serious ramifications later in one's life.  How far should one's trust extend?  On Kiawah in the summer, just about to the end of your bicycle cable lock.

Too many bleak thoughts this morning.  I'm looking forward to some time in an empty pool in the sunshine to get the attitude readjusted!

Monday, August 6th, a morning downpour:   It's 74 degrees on my back porch at 7:00 this morning.  The rain began in the early hours and has developed into a torrential downpour at present.  The heavy showers are predicted to continue here through 9AM or so and slowly move further inland.  Looks like the only water aerobics this morning will be the sprint down the driveway to fetch the paper.  High again in the mid-80's.

Dinner in town with HWMPT's former Captain was very nice, indeed.  Some reminiscing, but mainly the easy uptake and continuation of a bond formed long ago.

As we returned home, the moon was rising in a very dramatic manner.  There were sufficient low clouds to mask the full face of the rising moon but not enough to obliterate its glow, a warm ivory backlight that limned the clouds to dramatic effect.  As we drove home, the moon rose higher in the sky, changing character as the cloud cover mutated. By the time we reached the Kiawah marsh, the moon has found a clear patch of sky sprinkled with stars and was shining full force, but still with an ivory rather than silver glow.  Beautiful.

But we were not through with Nature's show for the evening.  There was a food chain event just off the back porch about a half hour after we arrived home.  From the sound of the struggle, the principals (prey and predator) were of substantial size.  The struggle continued for several minutes, an inordinately long time for such sounds to be reminding us that we may think we own the island--and maybe we DO own the day--but it's a different story at night.  Bright beauty and dark struggle.  The yin and yang of Nature.  The way of the world.

May you not find yourself on the wrong end of a food chain event today!

Sunday, August 5th, a shower still possible:   It's 74 warming up degrees on my back porch at 8:30 this morning.  The sky is lightly clouded but mostly clear and it looks like a good day for the beach.  Be forewarned, though--showers are still a possibility.  High again in the mid-80's.

We have a busy day on tap, it seems.  He Who Must Play Tennis will start the day with peach pancakes (the fruit is abundant and delicious this year!).  Then his mother will be here for Sunday dinner.  We have just found out that his captain from his first ship in the Navy will be  in town this evening and we will meet him there for dinner.  As I think about it, this looks like a busy eating day with a few breaks for other endeavors--one of which had better be some vigorous exercise!

It will be great to see Captain Davidson.  He was heavily responsible for HWMPT's staying in the Navy for 26 years.  That first tour on the USS John R. Craig, a destroyer, was an intro to the "real" Navy--a small fighting ship with a great crew doing a job.  It will be interesting to see if CAPT (ret) HWMPT reverts to Ensign or LT(jg) in the presence of his former Captain!

Saturday, August 4th, a shower possible:   It's 72 sunny degrees on my back porch at 7:30 this morning.  The sky is reasonably clear at the moment but we are warned that clouds will move in during some part of the day and there's a chance of a shower or thunderstorm later.  High again in the mid-80's.

Has anyone been crabbing this year?  Usually by this time in the season the most popular spots, like alongside the KI Parkway bridge, have been pretty well scoured.  Every week I see lots of new crab nets walking out of the Piglet and there's always at least one person at the bridge, but I haven't seen much being landed.  Of course, crabbing is also just a good excuse to be out in the side with some beyond-its-prime chicken!

I hear a small plane passing over the island.  I know there was aerial spraying for mosquitoes earlier in the week in The Preserve.  I wonder if there is some other area being sprayed today.  I don't like saturation bombing, but the voracious vermin are a concern this year.

Friday, August 3rd, a tiny bit warmer!   It's 70 very comfortable degrees on my back porch at 7:00 this morning.  If you liked yesterday, you're in luck because today will be much the same.  The temp will begin to climb, but only by a couple of degrees today, and the humidity will slowly return to August levels.  Mid-80's are on tap.

We spent some time with friends last evening, old ones and some new ones, watching chatting, laughing an watching the sun set over a high-tide marsh.  Several pelicans were cruising back and forth and a couple did their folded wing dive to the water.  Simon, the British gent, shared an Ogden Nash limerick with us.

A peculiar bird is the pelican.
His beak holds more food than his belly can.
He can hold in his beak
Enough food for a week
And I don't know how the hell he can!

We begin to watch over our shoulders (so to speak) the weather in the tropics now.  May all the named storms be benign this year!

Thursday, August 2nd, beautiful!   It's 70 fallish degrees on my back porch at 7:30 this morning.  The humidity is low, the sun is shining and there's a very gentle breeze blowing.  It is absolutely wonderful on the porch!  High today again in the mid-80's.

Aside from being delightful, yesterday evening's breeze also served to keep the mosquito attacks down to a minimum.  Of course, He Who Must Play Tennis didn't enjoy what the swirling wind did on the tennis court.  Let's just say it wasn't his best day on the Har-Tru!

There seems to be a bit of shark mania this summer, fueled no doubt by the news coverage of this season's unfortunate attacks along the Southeast and Gulf coasts.  We have had several inquiries by visitors as to whether there are sharks in our water.  They are usually horrified to learn that yes, indeed, there ARE--just as there are sharks all along the coast.  We assure them that these are not man-hunting sharks, patrolling for a quick bite (so to speak!) and that there are ways to be safe in the water.  I think most of the alarmed visitors still think sharks are a new coastal phenomenon.

This is going to be a beautiful day, too nice to be spent inside.  I think there should be one or two discretionary holidays during a year for days that are like this, too beautiful to be missed.  Local officials would have the authority to send everybody outside to play!  An old-fashioned recess!  Today would qualify for sure.

Wednesday, August 1st, mostly sunny:   It's 71 degrees on my back porch at 6:30 this morning and the brightening sky is clearing.  Mostly sunshine today and a high in the mid-80's.  Hardly the dog days!

Zoë has arrived to share the morning paper with He Who Must Play Tennis And Can't As Much As He Would Wish Because He Has To Work.  He gets to read what he can see around Zoë who delights in sprawling full length across the pages.  The usual tactic to get her to leave is to insist on scratching under her chin.

The marsh is particularly attractive these days--bright green grasses, blue sky above and blue water below.  The Kiawah bridge vista is lovely and so is the view from the connector bridge coming back onto James Island from town.  If you catch the view in the early morning or late evening light, so much the better.

Tuesday, July 31st, sunny:   It's 70 degrees on my back porch at 5:30 this morning and dark.  Mostly sunny today with a high in the mid-80's.  No rain?

Can't write much this morning as I have a very early morning appointment for a root canal.  YUCK!  Hope your day starts out much better than that.

Monday, July 30th, partly cloudy:   It's 77 degrees on my back porch at 7:00 this morning, cloudy, humid, but with a bit of a breeze.  It will reach into the mid-80's today with the continuing chance of showers.

I don't hear a lot of birdsong this morning but I can easily imagine the whine and drone of a bazillion mosquito wings.  They are everywhere and they are hungry!  There should be no unprotected walking, especially in the morning and evening!

We had the opportunity to attend vespers at Mepkin Abbey last evening in celebration of the successful conclusion to protect the pre-Revolutionary War site, Childsbury, from development.  The Mepkin Trappists were instrumental in sustaining the fight, along with a consortium of state offices and nonprofit organizations.  This fight was won, but as Father Francis pointed out, what is good, or right, or beautiful is always worth the fight, even if the fight is not always won.  The Abbey grounds are beautiful and the simple vesper service was filled with music, sunlight, and white clouds passing behind the round window high above the choir.  A very nice occasion, indeed.

Another week begins, fraught with all manner of opportunities.  Soldier on!

Sunday, July 29th, beginning to clear:   It's 76 muggy degrees on my back porch at 6:30 this morning.  There are still some clouds about, but the good news is that there is some blue sky visible.  Showers are still a possibility, but maybe not as constant as most of yesterday.  High in the mid-80's.

There has been much discussion around--interpersonally and on the listserv--about the proposed construction of towers here on the island to improve cellular phone service.  Personally, I think we are sometimes a bit too much in constant communication touch with the rest of the world and kind of welcome being in a spot where no one can reach me!  That being said, there IS one technological improvement that I would love to see on the island (aside from real cable service--but I don't even want to go there!)  That improvement would be a reliable electric service.  Seems a simple enough request here in the 21st century.  Yesterday it was back to frequent quick clicks off and then back on of the power (VERY good for all electronics!) and then last night we lost power for an hour and a half.  No thunderstorms, just no power.  Perhaps we could put windmills on those communications towers!

Friday, July 27th, increased chance of showers:   It's 75 degrees on my back porch at 7:10 this morning.  It's overcast but clearing, for the moment anyway.  There's a 60% chance of showers today and 70% chance tomorrow.  We were in the 50% area that DIDN'T have showers yesterday, unlike in town where it rained heavily.  High in the upper 80's.

The construction on the Stono bridge is proceeding apace.  Most of the traffic stoppages have been eliminated as the work on the power lines has ceased, the turn lanes for the new housing development have been completed, and the main work now is focused on setting in the concrete pilings that will support the road over the marsh.  I haven't been out Main Road lately and don't know what the progress is there, but I haven't heard much complaint lately of long backups there either.

Nearly the end of July if you can believe that!  I was in Wal-Mart yesterday and the aisles are filled with school supplies.  What used to be an August event has now migrated to July.  School starts here very early in August this year, a month that seems ill-suited for school.  August just sounds like a time to be whiling away the time in the last hot days of midsummer, preparing for the uptake of activity as the seasons change to autumn.

Thursday, July 26th, muggy, hot:   It's 75 degrees on my back porch at 7:30 AM.  We have another overcast morning and the clouds will hang about a bit more today and it looks like showers will move in for tonight and tomorrow.  During the day, however, the moisture is just going to hang in the 90-degree air.  Summer as we know it!

Pine cones are falling at a rapid rate from the tree that overhangs our deck and Molly and Zoë have to be wary of falling objects while they are out there.  Mostly they take refuge under the chairs and make low-to-the-ground dashes to and from the door.  I don't think these are squirrel-assisted missiles like the neatly nibbled cores of new cones that are hurled to the ground in rapid succession in the spring, just Mother Nature trying to plant new trees.

Rocky and Duffy have sent a new picture.  Check out the Critter Corner by clicking on the cat icon.  Sorry, pups, but that's the way it is here at chats!

Wednesday, July 25th, a bit warmer:   It's 78 laundry room degrees on my back porch at 6:20 AM.  It's only just beginning to become light, but it looks as though there's a fair bit of overcast, at least for the early morning.  Clouds are likely off and on throughout the day and there's the chance of showers here and there.  High near 90.

I was up early this morning.  Miss Molly had an empty food dish and felt I would want to know right away.  It was dark when we first went out on the porch and the sounds were definitely of the night--locusts buzzing the last reprise of their evening song.  We are in the transition time now.  There are still locusts humming away, but a cardinal has joined the chorus and there are some other twitterings beginning to be heard from the underbrush and trees--the Kiawah wake-up song.

Yesterday's strong breeze out of the southwest probably made it bit uncomfortable to be down on the beach (the wind was at sandblasting velocity).  But the ocean was a sight--whitecaps and rollers as far out as one could see.  The surf played appropriately dramatic music and the crashing waves added percussive accents.  It was a Wagner day.

He Who Must Play Tennis is fasting for blood to be drawn this morning.  As you know, he's definitely a breakfast person and this is not his favorite way to begin the day.  I have him at work making blueberry muffins--to keep him occupied while not eating and to give him something to look forward to a little later.  But he will play tennis this evening, weather permitting, and it will be a good day after all

Tuesday, July 24th, clouds, showers:   It's 74 nearly blustery degrees on my back porch at 7:20 AM, cloudy skies and a strong gusty wind bouncing the treetops.  There's a good chance of thunderstorms today and for the rest of the week it would appear.  High in the mid-80's.

The degree of light this morning and the swirling winds make it appear more like November outside  than late July.

I wish I knew birdsongs better.  There was definitely a new song outside my window early this morning--actually nearly a lone voice with the windy conditions.  It was a sweet, clear call that I don't think I've heard before or at least not often enough for it to become a familiar voice.  A new bird? Or has my mockingbird learned a new tune?

Speaking of birds, consider the turkey vulture.  We live in an area that seems to be prime turkey vulture habitat and we see them soaring and circling everyday.  If you have ever seen one on the ground, then you probably know they are not among nature's loveliest creatures.  But they perform a very important scavenging function in the total universal order and they are blessed with the ability to soar, fly, and glide with a grace that can only be admired.  I love to watch them catching a morning thermal and circling up higher in the sky, then rocking with the currents as they glide for very long distances without ever flapping a wing.  Fine compensation, indeed.

Monday, July 23rd, mixed:   It's 74 humid degrees on my back porch at 7 AM, mostly cloudy skies and only a bit of a breeze.  There's a good possibility of a shower today and a high around 85.

We had very high tides over the weekend and I understand that much devastation to the loggerhead turtle nests resulted, especially in the area east of the the Beach Club.  That's very sad news.

There has been a shift in feline relations in the house that defies logic (yes, both the shift AND the house defy logic!)  Molly and Zoë spent almost all of yesterday afternoon curled up beside each other, Zoë snoozing and Molly grooming her.  These are the same two cats who yesterday morning engaged in one of their classic roll and tumble, hiss, spit and yowl altercations.  I like the snuggly behavior better, but it's a bit unnerving!

The grasses newly planted on the first Parkway overpass have taken hold and we are beginning to see a few seed heads appear.  Some of the other plants are obviously thriving, aided by the rains and favorable weather, but I'm still somewhat undecided about the rather spindly plant that was included in the mix.  The plants in our refurbished cul-de-sac are trying to get a foothold also.  The sweetgrass is more successful than the usually hardy trailing rosemary which has darkened and is obviously struggling.  Gardening on Kiawah is like gardening no place else.  What works in one spot may fail miserably in another.  What grows in a nice, controlled manner one place may spread threateningly here.  And what promised to be a lush, verdant plant struggles to maintain itself as a spindly, small-leafed stick.  It's all a matter of trial and error and determination--for the plants and the gardener!

Sunday, July 22nd, a beautiful day:   It's 76 very pleasant degrees on my back porch at 9 AM, sunny with an occasional soft wisp of a breeze.  High today in the mid-80's, a good day to be outside.

Internet gremlins are active again.  If you signed on yesterday, during part of the morning at least, you saw Saturday's entry about Friday night's heavy rains.  By yesterday afternoon, the Saturday entry had disappeared and the Friday entry was posted.  I know I was here and posted it.  Others read it online and Friday's bit is posted in the back issues.  Who knows where Saturday is--or when we might see it again!  Watch this space!

It was so nice at the Sandcastle pool early this morning.  The water was cool enough to be refreshing while exercising but warm enough to be very comfortable and to make leaving a hard decision!  What a nice way to start the day.

The recent heavy rains have refreshed the lagoons.  The are full and sparkling this morning.  The rain should also help the new plantings along the KI Parkway and give all of the island vegetation a long drink to help carry through the summer.  This really has been an exceptional summer, though.  We have had stretches of pleasantly hot but not terrifically humid days that we have no right to expect this time of year here.

A random act of malicious behavior targeted He Who Must Play Tennis yesterday.  Someone threw a nearly full can of strawberry soda into his car while it was parked at the Island Center.  Red does little to enhance beige upholstery and carpet and a little artificial strawberry fragrance goes a long way!  Most of the red has been removed, but I have a feeling ants may begin to find the little car an attractive diner!  More than the damage to the car and the inconvenience to us, I find the churlish disregard for another person and another person's property reprehensible.  

A few clouds have moved in and so has Zoë.  Time to move on into the day.  Hope it stays "Sunday" here on the website all day!

Friday, July 20th, cloudy:   It's 74 very humid degrees on my back porch at 7 AM, heavily overcast and a light breeze.  It's dim out there and quiet, not raining yet, but there's a good chance.  High in the mid-80's.

Yesterday felt like summer days I remember from when I was growing up.  Everything was warm--the air, the ground, the trees, the water--and the humidity thickened the air and made it feel soft.  Days like that were made to be spent in the thick, cool shade of a pecan tree, reading or just daydreaming, letting the warm summer day slip away.  A luxurious gift of time.  Somehow we don't take many moments like that anymore, there's always so much to do.  I think we all need a "stand down" day occasionally when we have to act like cats in hot weather--stretch out and loll in a comfortable place, play a little, doze a little, and stare into space with squinty eyes and see what we can see.

Thursday, July 19th, hot:   It's 72 degrees on my back porch at 7 AM with blue skies and some puffy Jonathan Green clouds.  Hot sunshine today with a high around 90.

A frequent porch visitor reports that the spiders are markedly scarce out at Falcon Point this year also and that the rails who are usually quite vocal along the marsh edges are either absent or have gone mute.  This is a real intriguing situation and I would love a few more answers and less intrigue!  Bob C., are you out there?  Any ideas?

The tides and sunsets are coinciding nicely at the moment, high tide, low sun.  The blue water with green marsh grass accents and the orangey pink sky above combine for a beautiful picture.  It has been well-worth a walk or bike ride if necessary to find a front row seat--and as far as I know, it's still a non-taxed item and open to all.

Wednesday, July 18th, warming up:   It's 70 degrees on my back porch at 7 AM and sunny.  The breeze has shifted around to the SW and there's more than a touch of humidity this morning.  It will be near 90 today and the threat of scattered showers returns this evening.  Wasn't it a lovely respite!

We think there was a sighting of Rocky and Duffy yesterday, our two long unheard from representatives of the Kiawah Island Canine Organization.  Molly and Zoë haven't had their feathers ruffled by the little guys in quite a while and Barney, the site's token dog, would love to hear from them too!  Was that you, guys?

This is definitely a slow year for the big spiders and a bumper year for night locusts.  As night falls the chorus tunes and the darkness fills with an almost palpable curtain of their buzzing song.  But where are the spiders?

Tuesday, July 17th, pleasant:   It's a comfortable 70 degrees on my back porch at 7 AM, sunny with just a bit of haze in the blue sky and little if any breeze.  Sunny today with slightly warmer temperatures, upper 80's.

If you drive along River Road, then you already probably know there are fields of sunflowers growing there.  I drove past the fields several times yesterday.  The first pass was early in the morning when most of the heliotropes still had their heads down for the night.  Only a few had lifted their bright, cheery faces to the morning sun and they shone against the otherwise green field like the solar images they are.  I next passed by in the late afternoon and the fields blazed yellow with all the flowers standing straight and facing southwest.  The last time I drove past was well into the evening and they were all nodding again, heads down for a night's rest.  The fields are beautiful.

Monday, July 16th, continued nice:   It's 70 degrees on my back porch at 7 AM, sunny with just a hint of humidity.  High today in the mid-80's.

The crows are in high dudgeon this morning.  Joined by a supporting chorus of smaller birds, they have been creating quite a ruckus.  (I just went out on the porch to see what the topic under discussion was and was eventually rewarded with a brief view of a bobcat on his morning prowl, completely unfazed by the birds' constant scolding.)

Sorry I closed yesterday's message so abruptly, but as I was typing I learned that no one was minding the store--literally! So, I had to quickly dress and fly out of here.  A quick end to my day off.  I had meant to tell you yesterday that when I retuned home Saturday evening, there were three men at the smaller Sea Marsh lagoon removing a small 'gator.  The critter was only about 3 1/2-4 feet long so I can't imagine he was a physical threat.  Perhaps he has been fed and had started approaching people expecting more food.  Or perhaps he had taken to staying too close to a nearby house.  Or perhaps he distracted too many golfers trying to close out on that green.  It upset me to see it being removed because I have enjoyed looking for it over the past couple of years.  It was darker in color than most others I see and he was often on the bank enjoying the sun.  I kind of wish I had been a little later home from work.

A new week stretches ahead and I've got to get on with it.  Cheers to all!

Sunday, July 15th, faburiffic!   This is going to be such a great day that I needed a new word to describe it!  It's 77 very comfortable degrees on my back porch at 9:45 this morning, clear blue sky, and sunny and a slight breeze blowing.  A breeze out of the NE will keep the temps in the mid-80's and the humidity lower.  What a day!

I can't believe that it's mid-July and we can see clear blue sky!  There's usually such a haze from the humidity.  And to have the doors and windows open is an unexpected treat!

Saturday, July 14th, very nice!   It's 66 degrees on my back porch this morning, clear and sunny and a very slight breeze blowing.  Do you remember Snoopy's "happy feet" dance, nose up, big smile, and feet just a tappin'?  It's that kind of a morning!   We are at the beginning of what looks to be a beautiful weekend--mid-80's, sunshine, and lower humidity.

Even the birds are enjoying this early morning time.  A couple of cardinals are calling to each other and chickadees are twittering.  Some crows were putting up quite a ruckus earlier, just at first light, and I suspect it had something to do with a critter or maybe a hawk--or maybe they were just sniping at each other.  In any case, more melodious tunes are drifting through the open doors now.

All of a sudden all the heat pumps in my immediate area are silent and none of my household appliances are running except for this computer.  What wonderful silence!  What a gift it is to be temporarily free of all but the sounds of nature.  I can actually almost feel my ears unfolding and reaching out to catch the small sounds.  It's a good thing to sometimes stop "hearing" and really "listen."

I hope the weekend where you are is as pleasant as ours looks to be and that you have a porch where you have an opportunity to sit and listen.

Friday, July 13th, 1 PM: Rain is on its way. It's 74 degrees on my back porch at 7:15 this morning.  It's gray and wet outside and that's how it will be for most of today and tonight.  We did get rain out of yesterday's clouds and thunder and there could be significant amounts of rain still to come.  High today in the mid-80's.

It was raining as we left the island for dinner with friends at Red Sky last night, but the rain had stopped by the time we were returning.  It was still light when we returned and the marsh was gorgeous, the sweeping vista softened by a low-hanging mist, remnants of the heat and rain.  There were a couple of fisher-folk on the low-tide bank and a single egret gliding through and nearly blending into the soft grey light of evening.  A very peaceful welcome home after a good dinner with good friends.

Wednesday, July 11th, continued hot:  It's 76 degrees on my back porch at 7:00 this morning, hazy and still.  It doesn't seem quite as muggy this morning as the past couple, but maybe I've gotten used to it again.  It is definitely coastal SC summer now.  High today will be in the 90's again.

The crape myrtles along the BK Parkway median are in full bloom now, beautiful displays of white and mauve/lavender.  The bloom is more profuse this year than I ever remember, probably because the trees have reached maturity now.  There are also two or three bright purple myrtles behind the office park at the Island Center that are also showing themselves off to grand effect.  The myrtles never fail to spark the interest of our summer visitors who don't see them in their own home area.

What is it with the sharks and gators?  The news has been rife with reports of their "attacks."  Eco-terrorism?  Slow news summer?  And this morning in the P&C there's a report of a rattlesnake-man encounter something to the effect that "the snake was on him before he saw him" and this was an experienced woodsman.  Oh well, be alert out there!

We've had two reports of one of our critters here on Kiawah.  One resident found a bobcat curled up on her back deck, asleep.  Talk about adaptation!  We may be witnessing squatter's rights.  Another resident sends some cautionary words, however.  She was warned by a local vet about a tick-vector carried by bobcats which affects cats. Even Frontline Plus does not eliminate the possibility of infection. So, if your cat is one that actually goes outside, here's one more thing to worry about.  Thankfully, Molly and Zoë believe that the ground is what one touches when one is clumsy and falls off the railing!  It's been done, at least by Molly.

Tuesday, July 10th, cloudy, hot:  It's 76 degrees on my back porch at 7:00 this morning, hazy and still.  We will be happy for clouds today to help shield us from some of the heat.  It was 98 yesterday in mid-afternoon here.  That's summertime weather!  High today should be in the upper 80's and there's a chance of a shower.

You know how disheartening it is to turn the ignition key in the car and hear only a click or at most a grudging grind?  That's how we've been feeling here for several days with the website.  Think about it though.  There's no hood to lift and peer under in desperation.  There's no battery wires to jiggle or terminals to brush.  The repair service and service folks are disembodied beings that reside somewhere in cybertown and communicate on their own schedule through cryptic messages in e-mail.  Day after day, we tried the "ignition" and got only the "not here" message.  At last the cybergeek gods have smiled and we are back!  It's all a mystery--but then, so are batteries when you really think about it!  Thanks for being patient.  You were probably better at it than we were!

 We are now safely relocated on a new, more reliable host server.  Unfortunately, some of our data seems to have disappeared in transit.  Give a us a day or two and we'll get everything updated.

So, what have you missed?  Hot weather.  Yaupon-munching deer.  A heat wave.  A group of musical owls hooting in minor third harmony. Humidity.  A stray kitty.  And did I mention the heat?  The impatiens need almost constant watering now and the herbs droop by afternoon.  It's time to move at least the herbs into the shady heat of the porch.  They don't thrive quite as well without the direct sunlight, but they don't roast in the pots either!

Anyway, it's good to be back!

Monday, June 25th, pleasant:  It's 72 degrees on my back porch at 7:00 this  morning. It is bright out although the sun isn't really "shining" through the morning haze/clouds.  There's a chance of thundershowers, of course, but also lots of sunshine and a high in the low to mid-80's  Very pleasant for this time of year.

Visitors in the house have forced Molly and Zoë into near amicability--a united force against the unfamiliar.  We have actually spotted them lying next to one another quite peacefully and Molly has generally acceded to letting Zoë into "her" spaces at will.

Even though it is less ubiquitous than even a couple of years ago, I have been happy to see volunteer indigo plants still growing in patches around the island.  It's always a reminder to me of one of Kiawah's former lives, an island of plantations, and indigo was one of its important cash crops.  Evidently it was well-suited to this area since it persists here even now.  It's about four-feet tall at present and continuing to grow, a stalky plant with composite leaves on fronds.  It generally grows in clumps and is pretty easy to spot along the sunny roadsides.  Each year I search for it, hoping to find that we haven't yet eradicated all of it.

Sunday, June 24th, a terrific day:  It's 77 degrees on my back porch at 10:00 this  morning. The sun is shining brightly and it is a beautiful Kiawah Sunday.  There's still a chance we will have a thunderstorm during the day, but with temps in the mid-80's it's going to be a great day to be outside when you can be.

I'm sitting here listening to John Mayhall blues and visiting with family, my brother and his family.  There's always music involved in any of their visits, usually with a heavy blues or guitar element.  So the house is jumpin'!  Molly and Zoë are, of course, nowhere to be seen! 

Saturday, June 23rd, pleasant--mostly:  It's 71 very comfortable degrees on my back porch at 7:05 this  morning. There's a wet overcast but the sun peeks through every now and again so there's hope the skies will clear before a morning shower.  There's still a chance for one during the day and evening with a high in the low 80's.

He Who Must Play Tennis did get to at least hit a few balls yesterday evening.  He has proper matches scheduled for this morning and tomorrow, so keep a good thought for the weather.

The tides have occurred at such a schedule that they are at the high stage when I am crossing the bridge on and off the island and it's always a special pleasure when my schedule meshes with Mother Nature's.  The water is so broad then, and if we are at peak tide or a neap tide, the water covers the tops of most of the marsh grasses and the river assumes a lake-like look.  The light changes too with all the reflected light bounced from the increased surface.

I have to tend to flowers and herbs on the deck this weekend.  The impatiens that are in the window boxes that receive the greatest amount of sun during the day are on their last legs, baked into submission, and Molly has taken a sudden liking to chives.  I think that's a hint that the cat grass needs reseeding also.  Should be a nice weekend for those kinds of outdoor jobs. 

Friday, June 22nd, a continuing pattern:  It's 72 degrees on my back porch at 7:05 this  morning.  We've had thunder in the background for almost an hour and a few raindrops.  There's a dark cloud to the southwest and the thunder is becoming  more of a presence.  I suspect we may have a bit more rain out of this before it passes.  Partly cloudy during the balance of the day with a high in the mid-80's.

Tennis was rained out once again yesterday afternoon and He Who Must Play Tennis is becoming just a teensy bit frantic.  The long-range weather prognostication is an unbroken parade of dark cloud icons with rain and lightning descending from them.  Tennis drought may be upon us!

Yesterday afternoon's rain left the crape myrtles with a different look.  The fluffy white flowers concentrated at the ends of the branches collect and hold water almost as well as a sponge.  The weight of the collected rainfall caused the branches to droop into a rounded umbrellas shape with the tops of the blossom clusters pointing to the ground.  What one does NOT want to do was to touch any of those branches with any impact at all or they very quickly release the stored water!

Well, the thunder seems to be moving away although it is still quite dark and threatening outside.  Perhaps there will be water aerobics this morning after all! 

Thursday, June 21st, less rain?  It's 71 degrees on my back porch at 7:15 this  morning, a bit overcast and still.  There's actually a tiny bit of fog hanging about the tree tops.  Nice rain yesterday afternoon!  Steady but not pouring and only a rumble or two of thunder.  Even though it washed out He Who Must Play Tennis' game, it was still welcomed.  Not as great a chance of a shower today--maybe one later this evening--and a high in the upper 80's.

Crape myrtles in full bloom and a rising breeze create a beautiful sight--white flowers blowing and drifting like snowflakes--soft, fragrant, non-melting snowflakes. That has been this week's treat at the Island Center.

I have also been treated to seeing a number of bluebirds this week, usually darting across the road as I drive past.  In fact yesterday morning, in the space of a few "blocks" here on Kiawah, as I was driving I noted 15 species of birds--and that's while not being able to really look because--well, I was driving!  It must have been just the right time of the morning to catch the birds on the wing.  Drive-by birdwatching! 

Wednesday, June 20th, as usual:  It's 72 degrees on my back porch at 7:15 this  morning, the sun is shining and the air is pretty still.  It's not at all soggy and humid out this morning, but as the wind begins its slow switch around from out of the NNE, the humid air will be upon us once again.  Enjoy the relatively dry air while we have a chance.  High today in the mid-80's.

I found the red-winged blackbirds!  Apparently they are all down on Falcon Point!  I rode out that way on my bike last evening and paused to take in the wonderful view from the bridge over the marsh onto Summer Island.  The marsh was gorgeous, as usual.  There must have been fifty blackbirds lifting off from the marsh, disappearing back into it, fluttering above it, and flying by to check me out.  One landed on the railing beside me and spread his wings as if to make sure I really got a good look at the red and yellow markings. I appreciated that!

On my way back home, coming down Bufflehead, I came upon a benign snake of some ilk, dead in the road (really benign!)  He hadn't been dead for very long and had been some bird's dinner.  There was still lots of pink flesh on the carcass although the rib cage was picked clean and the delicate ones were perfectly intact, standing starkly in the air above the rest of the carcass.  The snake didn't appear to be road kill and I suppose it was dropped by a raptor of some sort.  As I write this, it occurs that this could be a bit gruesome for back porch talk, but it's all part of life here in the wild kingdom.  So many things to pique our interest.

Birthday greetings to Madame Councilwoman! 

Tuesday, June 19th, morning showers:  It's 71 dripping degrees on my back porch at 7:40 this  morning.  We have just had an early morning thundershower and there's still a bit of left over drizzle, but that's just about stopped too.  Clouds and sun today with a high in the mid-80's and still a chance for more showers.  

Well, we are back after what seemed an interminable time.  Let's just say that our web host didn't shine in the instant response, there-when-you-need-them service department.  Steps are being taken to help ensure this doesn't happen again, barring earthquakes or other natural disasters!

Zoë has really moved into summer cat mode.  She is likely to be found anywhere in the house or on the porches spread out into a  cat puddle, limbs splayed, and breathing deeply.  The heat seems to have dissolved her bones also.  There's still enough energy to tussle with Molly now and again but even that stops after a head bat or two.  Some days I know just how she feels!

The new plants at the entrance to the island are beginning to take hold.  There really seem to be too many in a tight space, but I am sure that's for fast coverage.  I recognize most of the plants (does anyone else find it amusing that we have cleared and now replanted bracken?), but what is that spindly, weedy-looking grass plant that has been planted in several places.  I'll have to find out.

I saw another wood stork on the wing yesterday afternoon.  There's a bit of protected wetlands at the upper end of Main Rd., across from Gilligan's.  We quite often see waterfowl there and yesterday a wood stork was swimming in the air above the marsh.  We watched for a bit, then turned on US17.  Just a few seconds later, we saw another silhouette that at first, because of the angle, looked a lot like a stork.  Turned out to be a USAF C-17--an altogether different bird!

Friday, June 15th, much the same:  It's 71 nearly sunny degrees on my back porch at 7:20 this  morning.  There are a few clouds about and there will be throughout the day.  But it's going to be in the upper 80's again and there's still a chance of a shower.

The phone/internet/server/whatever is sluggish this morning and I've spent an inordinate amount of time connecting to the world of "instant" communications!  I'll have to be brief because I want to help He Who Must Play Tennis prepare to leave for a weekend meeting with a conservancy group in the NC mountains.  "Meeting" should be construed broadly as I saw no neckties going into the suitcase, but there's a walking stick already stowed in the car (for the two hikes he has signed up for).  This sounds like the kind of meeting I'd like, especially since it's in the mountains at rhododendron time!

The summer season should shift into high gear this weekend.  Already the leisure trails are clogged and it's difficult to "bike with a purpose."  And we won't mention traffic...oh, maybe I will.  I spent a total of 45 minutes waiting in two separate lines at the Stono bridge construction yesterday.  My advice:  if you are traveling at midday, expect delays, enjoy the chance to look around and observe, and count yourself very lucky if you don't have to wait.  It will be "found" time!

Molly has just arrived with her stuffed sock which she announced in that peculiar yowl that cats sometimes use.  This is a many-years old "toy" that has a habit of appearing on the bed during the night or is brought to us at various times in various places.  Molly always knows where it is and Zoe NEVER touches it!

Thursday, June 14th, a bit warmer:  It's 72 soft degrees on my back porch at 7:10 this  morning.  There's a hazy overcast so the sun is not shining brightly today yet, but it will.  The breeze has subsided and it is nearly still.  The birds are in fine voice and it's a beautiful morning!  High today in the mid- to upper 80's and there's a slight chance of a thundershower.

My spirit-lifting sighting yesterday occurred crossing the marsh as it often does.  I saw the usual birds about their morning rounds--gulls, a couple of skimmers, and a young pelican.  A bit higher above them, but still easily viewable, was a wood stork gliding along the marsh edge.  He was unmistakable with those beautiful black and white markings and graceful wings.  It put a morning smile on my face and got the day off to a good start.

Last night we were treated to quite a fireworks show--courtesy of the Resort, I presume.  It lasted 15 minutes or so and the sky was filled with colors, patterns, and sound.  All of which brings to mind the question, "Why?"  Flag Day Eve?  July 4th on a more convenient day?  Wednesday without rain?  Inquiring minds need to know!

Wednesday, June 13th, some sunshine:  It's 74 degrees on my back porch at 7:10 this  morning.  There's actually some sunshine and blue sky out here this morning for a change.  There's also a strong breeze bouncing the trees and sending a few light wisps of clouds racing across the sky.  We are told to expect clouds and more showers, but for now the sun will do very nicely, thank you!  High in the mid-80's.

We are in the midst of fruit season here.  Strawberries are just past, but SC peaches are now at Rosebank as are local melons, and both are very good.  This morning's paper extols blueberries and blackberries ready for picking at Leland Farms on Wadmalaw and that just may be a Sunday outing.  What a wonderful time of the year and how fortunate we are to live in such close proximity to producing farms.

Ah! Mr. Cardinal has braved the wind-tossed branches and is just outside the porch singing his morning song.  He has caught the attention of Zoë, who naps here beside the computer, but only enough for her to lift her head, squint in the direction of the song, and listlessly half-curl her fluffy tail.  There's not enough interest to really disturb a morning nap.

Tuesday, June 12th, chance of more showers:  It's 74 quiet degrees on my back porch at 7:20 this  morning, overcast with a moderate breeze.  There's only an occasional bird chirp and no surf sounds at all.  We seem to be set in a pattern of afternoon clouds and thundershowers and today they are even more likely than they have been the past couple of days.  So, while it is still warm outside and in the water, this is probably not the best beach weather for our visitors.  I must say that my plants and herbs on the deck are looking mighty happy though!  It won't be long before I have to find shaded spots for them or just abandon them to the summer heat.  High today in the low to mid-80's.

Another Kiawah observer reported seeing a half dozen chickadees (or was it Carolina wrens?) perched in a row along the top of the garish orange plastic fence netting that is placed around construction areas.  They were perched there, chattering away at the edge of an area that is being cleared of understory.  I suspect this was actually an avian sit-in demonstration protesting loss of their habitat!

Well, the French Open is over and Wimbledon is yet to start and He Who Must Play Tennis is thwarted by a fulltime job and afternoon showers.  Life is sometimes awfully hard!

Sure sign of summer--the white crape myrtles at the Island Center burst into bloom over the weekend!  A summer tree for sure.

Monday, June 11th, much like yesterday:  It's 72 very pleasant degrees on my back porch at 7:00 this  morning.  There's a light hazy overcast but also the hint of morning sunshine.  The birds are chattering rather than singing this morning, except for a cardinal that's taking a solo ride.  We should have a day much like yesterday, mixed sun and clouds and a fair chance of a shower.  High in the mid-80's.

The marsh is almost all green now.  It amazes me each year how long it takes for the color to change from winter dun to green as the new stalks push through and above the old grass.  We were driving past the marsh on the other side of the Stono bridge this weekend and there were a number of red-wing blackbirds flitting about then perching atop the marsh grass or disappearing from sight down into the thatch.  It reminded me that I haven't seen--or at least noticed--as many red-wing blackbirds along our marsh for a while.  I'll have to pay special attention and look for them this week.  I did see two beautiful skimmers on Saturday glide across the road and skim the river's surface.  And an osprey sailed across the road in front of me.  Now THAT will make you put on brakes! 

Sunday, June 10th, clearing:  It's 70 pleasant degrees on my back porch at 8:00 this  morning.  There are still clouds but they are much higher and less threatening than the ones we have seen for the past few mornings.  There will still be clouds hanging about during the day, but there will be more sunshine.  Yes, there's still a chance of an afternoon shower.  I certainly heard about our inhospitable weather yesterday from a number of vacationers--and here I thought it was just lovely!  High in the mid-80's.

I saw a bluebird just around the corner day before yesterday.  He was along the side of the road, hopping about in a puddle left from one of our recent showers.  Just as I neared him, he spread his wings showing off that impossible blue.  Childhood memories die hard and whenever I see a bluebird (because it wasn't until we moved here that I saw one in the wild), I want to burst into a chorus from "Zippidy Doo-Dah, Zippity Ay!"  I liked those Disney bluebirds and was astonished to learn that Technicolor didn't do their color justice.  We are so lucky to have them as island residents also.

Well, a busy day stretches ahead of me, but it started with a taste of He Who Must Play Tennis' sweet potato pancakes.  We are already off to a good start.  Hope your weekend is progressing well.

Saturday, June 9th, cloudy:  It's 72 degrees on my back porch at 8:00 this  morning, cloudy again, damp with an occasional stirring of the air.  There will be clouds around again today but a reduced chance of a shower.  Of course, that's a moot point if you are already dressed and at the tennis court ready to play when the 30% showers find you!  Grrrrr.  High in the mid-80's.

Thanks to a passing friend, I got to see the season's first glorious rainbow after yesterday's shower.  She reported that as she drove back onto the island, the  rainbow arced across the main gate--appropriately!  When I saw it, it was still a full bow with part of the secondary rainbow quite visible.  I took some pictures, and if anything shows up at all, we will have them in the photo album soon.

Both Molly and Zoë are paying close court this morning, Zoë at the computer and Molly lying on the newspaper.  Molly has also taken increased interest in He Who Must Play Tennis' cereal.  She's usually not a milk drinker.  Maybe it's the Wheat Chex.  Sometimes breakfast is very much a pack experience at my house!

Friday, June 8th, more clouds, showers:  It's 72 degrees on my back porch at 7:30 this  morning, cloudy, still, and damp.  Yesterday's light rain was well-received (unless this is vacation week, I guess).  We should continue to have cloudy conditions and a good chance for more rain today and tonight.  High in the mid-80's

Before the first brief thunder shower yesterday, it was hot and muggy, the conditions that let you know there's a storm about to pop.  I was on my back porch potting some plants just as the storm approached.  I could hear the rising wind on the river two minutes or so before it actually reached shore and blew through my porch.  In the days before air-conditioned homes that are insulated from the weather--for good or bad--that first rush of wind that preceded a thunderstorm was often cause for a deep breath and a smile.  It brought a rush of rain-cooled air that worked to cool the sultry atmosphere.  I particularly remember my Dad and Grandma standing tall and enjoying the ushering breeze.  I felt it yesterday on my porch.  The storm was a brief, benign one and I stayed on the porch throughout the duration, taking in the rain's perfume, the wind's trumpeting, and the thunder that I felt through my feet on the deck boards.  I'm happy we have air conditioning, but it's sometimes nice to have a chance to revisit some of what we have "conditioned" out of our lives along with the heat and humidity.

Thursday, June 7th, cloudy:  It's 74 degrees on my back porch at 7:15 this  morning.  There's a pretty good overcast this morning and a breeze occasionally causing the trees to sway.  Mostly cloudy conditions will prevail throughout  of the day and there will be an increased chance of thunder and rain.  High in the upper 80's.

Our cul-de-sac is graced with the presence of a bunny.  Must be bunnies--I don't think they exist in the wild in single numbers!  Both of us as well as our neighbors have seen a bunny hopping about or striking a pose or high-tailing it back to the underbrush of a vacant lot.  Hopefully, our resident bobcat doesn't develop a taste for rabbit!

Wednesday, June 6th, summery:  It's 74 degrees on my back porch at 7:00 this  morning.  The sun is shining and there's little breeze.  The birds are singing and the air is only softly humid this morning.  A touch cooler today with a high out here in the upper 80's and there's the usual slight chance of a thunder shower later.

Ah! the moon was a lovely thing last night.  I saw it half-high in the sky, shining bright silver through the dark tracery of the river birch branches outside the window.  Its light was so bright that it lit the slightly misty sky and scattered night clouds with an almost surreal, theatrical glow.  I imagine it was a spectacular sight at the shore, all that light creating a silver pathway on the water's surface.

I fell asleep under silver light and awoke to a salmon pink sky backlighting the river birch.  The color lingered only briefly this morning, almost like a living presence, it changed so quickly and was gone.  Nature's gifts are sometimes fleeting and demand alert recipients but the gifts are always there, somewhere, for us to discover

Tuesday, June 5th, sultry:  It's 76 close degrees on my back porch at 7:00 this  morning.  The sun is already shining brightly and will continue to smile on us throughout the day.  It will be quite warm again (I'm avoiding the "ho-" word because I know there's much more to come!) and the high will once again be around ninety, warmer of course in town.

Mimosas are in full display now and there's a terrific one on Berryhill Road.  It's among a lot of other trees so it hasn't acquired the usual spreading shape, but it is very tall and full of blooms right now. I think I related once before that a mimosa seedling was my first horticultural success (and in my mind, still my most significant!)  After nursing it through varying sizes of pots and the back of my mother's flowerbed, I thought when my dad moved the three-foot tall sapling (in the winter it looked all the world like a dead stick stuck in the ground) to the back lot close to the ditch, that would be the end of my tree.  Actually it was the best place for it.  There was plenty of water for its feet, lots of good rich soil, and room for the tree to grow into a spreading umbrella.

The mimosa is long gone now and there is only a bit of uneven ground to mark where it stood, sheltering the remains of a couple of cats and a lot of summer daydreams.  To many, a mimosa is a weed, a trash tree, but for me it is still a beautiful and exotic invitation to sit and spin summer daydreams about far away places where such loveliness exists along the ditch banks.

Monday, June 4th, steamy:  It's 70 degrees on my back porch at 7:00 this  morning, the sun is breaking through and the breeze is gently blowing through the treetops.  It's going to warm up rapidly today, up to around 90 and even warmer in town.  There's also a fair chance of  a thunderstorm later.  And this is only the beginning!

My encounters with nature continued yesterday after spotting the bobcat early in the morning..  He Who Must Play Tennis and I were at the courts in the late afternoon when I noticed some crashing about in the undergrowth and leaf litter that indicated either the biggest, baddest squirrel on the island or something else entirely.  It was three good-sized (for Kiawah) deer.  They paid no mind to the sound of the ball being hit (no doubt they had already taken measure of my shot accuracy) and worked their way along the fence.  It was as always a treat for us to be amongst the natural residents, but it was a real treat for the many bikers, including lots of tykes, who soon clogged the nearby bike path, agog and amused.  What a nice welcome for them to the wonderful world of Kiawah!

Sunday, June 3rd, sunny:  It's 69 quite pleasant degrees on my back porch at 6:30 this  morning, already sunny and little breeze.  The birds are in fine tune and singing their morning songs, a natural Spoleto event that's free for the listening!  Sunshine again today with a high in the mid-80's.

I walked out onto my back porch this morning in time to see a blue jay and cardinal flitting in tandem from tree limb to tree limb, the jay emitting a very different sound, almost a coo or moan, more like a dove than a jay.  Then I looked down and there he was--our handsome resident bobcat strolling through the yard.  I use the term yard loosely since the sides and back of our lot are still pretty natural, except for a lot of work pulling out grapevine out to the far edges where our lot abuts a strip of common area easement.  The bobcat--and other creatures and birds--have lots of natural cover and forage and we quite often spot them out there.  In fact, sometimes stepping out on the porch or deck is a little like stepping into a Wild Kingdom episode!

Anyway, what a treat it was to see the bobcat.  He walked along under the watchful eyes of the two birds, stopping at one point to look up at me for a few moments, then back on his patrol.  He disappeared into the common area bramble, and had I not been up and out just at that time, I would have missed seeing my wild neighbor.  Thanks to Molly and Zoë and their early morning contretemps for making me rise early.

Saturday, June 2nd:  It's 72 degrees on my back porch at 8:00 this morning, a bit less muggy with a moderate breeze blowing.  There're still some morning clouds but the sun peeks through now and again.  It should soon come to stay around for a while.  High today in the mid-80's.

I went for a walk in the late evening yesterday, just in time to enjoy a passing rain shower--without benefit of an umbrella.  It was kind of nice - big soft drops and no thunder or lightning.  I felt like a kid who should be actively looking for stompable puddles.  I remember not being particularly bothered about walking in the rain when I was younger.  In fact, I loved all my vinyl covered raincoats--red or yellow with daisies or bright green stripes.  Of course, I didn't have the added impediment of glasses to worry about then!

Late start today and I've got to rush.  Would love to sit on the porch and rock in the gentle morning.  Maybe tomorrow.

Friday, June 1st:  It's 74 degrees on my back porch at 6:00 this  morning, a bit muggy but no more so than usual for early June on Kiawah.  The sky is only beginning to lighten, enough so that I can tell that it's hazy, also usual for early summer skies.  There's a chance of a thundershower this afternoon and evening, otherwise sunshine with a high in the mid-80's.

We were driving around The Preserve yesterday around noon when a young alligator (3-4 feet long) hot-footed--literally!--across the road in front of us.  He moved quickly, scurrying through the grass and into his waterhole.  You could almost hear a sigh of relief as the water cooled those gator tootsies!  Quite a surprise to see him out at midday.  There was some heavy construction machinery at work at the end of the road and I suppose he had been dislodged from his midday repose.

Also surprising was all the clearing and flagging along the roadsides.  What ARE they doing down there?  More landscaping, I guess, although it does seem a contradiction in terms to be landscaping in an area dubbed "The Preserve."

So, here we are on my back porch, only through a new door.  We hope to continue to give you a little dose of Kiawah each day, with miscellaneous observations along the way.  We'll have pictures and anecdotes and lots of other stuff as we go along.  What you won't find here are meeting reports and announcements and real "hard" news of the Island and area.  For that, continue to use the Kiawah Property Owners Group (KPOG) website, www.kiawah.org.  Thanks for stopping by!

Thursday, May 31st:  sunny

It's 73 slightly muggy degrees on my back porch at 7:00 this morning.  There's still a bit of the sunrise's pink glow in the eastern sky as the day quickly brightens.  We should have lots of sunshine today and a high in the mid-80's.

Over three years ago, a small group of KPOG members got together and started this website.  Among the things we wanted to do was to find a way to make site users feel a connection with Kiawah, even if they were physically not here.  We decided that the weather might be a good way to do that and I volunteered to go on each morning and report what the day was like and the forecast.  I don't know quite how it started, but soon I was writing about the scenery, the birds, Molly and Zoë, and He Who Must Play Tennis.  Eventually, my back porch--like all good porches--became a place from which to posit and ponder, to reflect on life, family and this beautiful island.

I, for one, have learned a lot from this journey.  I've learned a lot more about Kiawah Island.  Little things, like where the resurrection fern is most abundant; where there are remaining stands of coral bean; which patches of volunteer indigo have been developed out of existence; where I am likely to see hawks, bluebirds, or a particularly perky kingfisher.  I've learned the rhythm of the tides and the seasons and the music of birdsong and surfsong..

I've learned that you, indeed, enjoy having a "window on Kiawah Island."  I've appreciated your comments and it humbles me to learn so many of you have visited my back porch so regularly.

I've also learned that change is inevitable.  Kiawah has changed in the years since we moved here in 1988.  So much growth and so many changes.  I certainly don't mean to imply that change is all negative, but rapid growth creates its own tensions.  That has certainly been the case over the past year.  Thorny issues have divided and polarized many on the island, and highly charged, polarized positions have led to contentious talk and behavior.  As some of us who maintain this site tried to keep up with all the issues, the focus on the division and contention became almost overwhelming, so much so that I, for one, was beginning to lose sight of the very qualities that make Kiawah so special.  Crossing the marsh coming home at the end of the day no longer lifted my spirits in quite the same way.

Somehow, I was losing "my Kiawah" and that would never do!  The problem, I think, was the immersion in the issues and the tone of the debate.  I winced at the personal aspersions and the impugning of motives of people who have legitimate concerns--on all sides.  So, I decided that for me the best thing to do would be (except for the Conservancy) to pull back from island organizational activities for a while--including this KPOG website.  (Some others on the committee have decided the same.)  I can focus once again on all the things I love about this place.  Already the marsh is beginning to work its magic again.

One big lesson I've learned over the past three years is that I enjoy this online journal and I don't plan to stop.  So while after today the kiawah.org door to my back porch will be closed, another door opens on June 1st through www.kiawahchats.net.  Molly & Zoë and their friends will be there.  He Who Must Play Tennis will continue to patrol the courts and to cook pancakes.  And I'll continue to posit and ponder about Kiawah and life.  I'll see you there!

NOTE:  The kiawah.org website will continue although there are likely to be changes in format and content.  Don't lose this bookmark.

Wednesday, May 30th:  very nice

It's 68 degrees on my back porch at 5:45 this morning.  The day's light is only beginning to lift the darkness on my back porch, but already the morning symphony has begun.  I can hear scores of individual bird songs, close in the understory that surrounds us and farther away in the trees.  What a wonderful sound to awaken to.  The air smells of damp earth, reminder of yesterday's rain showers, and the breeze is only gently stirring.  We should have a sunny day once the morning clouds clear with a high in the mid-80's.

Our animal friends, the ones we invite into our homes and lives, can be such great companions.  There are few things more comforting than a cat in the early morning hours, draped across your chest or snuggled close, palpably purring and occasionally tapping or stroking your cheek with a velvet paw.  And not much matches the feeling of welcome one gets from a dog waiting for you right inside the door as though he had been there since you left, eyes bright, ears perked, and tail thumping now that you have returned.  For all the work they can cause, the extra responsibility they entail, and the heartache they engender with their departure, they are still an important part of my life--oddly enough, a "humanizing" factor.

Fearless, the boneless cat, is demonstrating the posture often assumed by Molly and Zoë now that the season has turned to summer--cat puddles (Fearless affects a half-twist in his pose).  These are freeform, amoeba-like poses, usually struck on screened porches or warm sunlit spots inside.  There may or may not be discernible breathing or sometimes a very languid, slight twitch of the tip of a tail.  It sometimes looks like afternoon on the Serengeti on my back porch!

Just a reminder, it's D minus 1.

Tuesday, May 29th:  clouds, maybe rain

It's 72 degrees on my back porch at 7:00 this morning.  The sky is gray and wet-looking and there's a moderately strong damp breeze blowing.  We will have clouds throughout much of the day and maybe some more showers--nothing heavy, but enough to send one in search of shelter. High in the mid-80's

Last night's shower should have fully revived the resurrection fern.  The heavy rain we had last week did a remarkable job and the seemingly dead ferns suddenly sprang back in to life, unfurling green fronds along the branches of many live oaks.  They should be in full array this morning.  Find one!

 Everyday is sort of like an "I Spy" game on Kiawah:  what's new in this picture--what can I spot?  Of course the best way to make these little discoveries is to get beyond the roadside (although there's plenty to see just driving through).  But I highly recommend that you put down the car keys, dust off the bike or saddle up Shank's Mare, and go explore!  Be sure to take some bug spray!

Just a reminder, it's D minus 2.

Saturday, May 26th: nice

Happy birthday to me. It's 66 degrees on my back porch at 7:40 this morning, cloudy with thunder rolling in the west.  It has been a long time since we had an early morning thunderstorm.  Sounds like summer.  Can't tell if we will get any rain out here to accompany the noise.  I see sunlight beginning to filter through the trees, so it doesn't look promising.  The bulk of the day should be sunny with a high in the low to mid-80's.

I had an unusual sighting yesterday morning as I was leaving the island.  Just this side of the bridge on the road was a four to five-foot long, quite muscular, bulky snake--beautifully and brightly patterned, but a snake nonetheless.  A check of the reference books confirmed my suspicion--an eastern diamondback rattlesnake.  Not the way I like to start my day.  I was asked by several if I had run over it with the car and I reported that I actually swerved to avoid hitting it.  Poisonous and dangerous as it may be, I just couldn't deliberately run over it.  I hope that buys me snake protection points!

Here's McCabe, admiring himself in the mirror, and justifiably so!

Friday, May 25th: lovely

It's 66 degrees on my back porch at 7:15 this morning, clear, bright, sunny and still--except for a vociferous wren who's belting out his morning song.  High today in the mid-80's with lots of sunshine.

Yesterday may have been THE day of the season.  It was gorgeous, sunny with little humidity and a gentle breeze.  Even though it was in the mid-80's at midday, it was still comfortable to be out on the tennis court and biking.  And sitting in a porch rocker, reading and dreaming, would have been heaven.  The weather even made my extended waits at the Stono bridge construction zone quite bearable, especially the time I spent stopped in the middle of the bridge.  What a lovely cool breeze off the river.

He Who Must Play Tennis and his cohorts will find the weather very agreeable for their 20th annual Kiawah-Atlanta Cup tournament.  Go Cougars! 

Thursday, May 24th: lovely

It's 60 delicious degrees on my back porch at 7:10 this morning, clear, bright, sunny and still.  Ahhhh!  High today in the mid-80's with a breeze out of the southwest.

Everything looks washed and refreshed after the rain two nights ago.  The only casualty from the downpour were the remaining blooms on the jasmine.  They are all gone now and I have next year to look forward to.

I had an up close and personal moment with a denizen of Kiawah's wildlife last night.  As I rode my bike along the path that goes through Fairway Oaks and the West Beach Tennis Center and crossed the second bridge, a large great blue heron flew across in front of me, so low and so close that I could feel the pulse of air as he beat his wings.  He looked at me with a bit of a frantic wild look in his eye and I KNOW I must have looked a bit unsettled as my mind weighed the options--run into a heron or join the gator in the pond.  Thankfully, it was just a close call!

Wednesday, May 23rd: a little cooler

It's 63 degrees on my back porch at 7:15 this morning, heavily scattered clouds and an occasional light breeze.  Showers are probably over and the high will be in the low 80's by afternoon.

We had quite a thunderstorm last night, rain that was most welcome here in SC where we are technically in the third year of a drought.  I'll check this morning to see if there was enough rain to revive the resurrection ferns.  The insistent--but not sharp--lightning awoke me and the sound of rain on the deck propelled me out of bed to close a few upstairs windows.  While I was up, I noticed that Zoë was obviously distressed, running from place to place, low to the ground.  I picked her up and she immediately curled into a tight ball, hiding her eyes.  I sat down with her and she cuddled closer, eyes peeking above my arm.  We spent the duration of the storm that way, my usually very independent kitty snuggled close, wind gusting, lightning flashing, rain pouring and thunder rolling.  The storm ended as abruptly as it began and Zoë slowly uncurled from her nest, looked back at me, and strode off as queen of her domain once again.  And this morning she sits right next to me as I type, her accustomed position.

Our visitor today is Connie, a young Pet Helpers cat who was saved from drowning in a drain on the James Island Connector.  She's about eight months old, still a bit shy, but looking for a quiet, comfy home.  Need a thunderstorm companion? Just look at those eyes!

By the way, I take at least partial credit for the evening's rain--I applied deck protector when I got home last evening.  A good practice run it would seem!

Tuesday, May 22nd: breezy

To those of you who checked this here before mid-afternoon, no, we didn't fall asleep at the switch - although that's not an unreasonable guess. There was an unidentified glitch which kept the website volunteers from being able to access the site all morning.  Not the usual glitch that we've come to expect when the server's down, but a heretofore unseen glitch.  Perhaps it's an omen as we count down to May 31, the day of the final report from this particular weatherperson. 

As those of you who live here have discovered by now, it's another warm, sunny, somewhat humid day.  A pleasant breeze makes being outside quite tolerable. It looked for awhile this morning as if we might get rain, but that seems less likely now. 

This morning I was treated to what has become a somewhat rare sight in these parts, a rabbit.  He was enjoying munching on grass which was still damp from irrigation and therefore especially tasty. Another visual treat was the male red-bellied woodpecker visiting the birdfeeder.

Hopefully I'll join you earlier in the day tomorrow.  Take care.

Monday, May 21st: warm

It's 73 degrees on my back porch at 7:15 AM,  a bit overcast with a light breeze.  It's actually very comfortable on my back porch this morning, an inviting place to read the paper and drink my morning coffee.  High today again in the mid-80's with a bit less breeze than yesterday.

We rode down to the beach at just about high tide last evening, and at mid-island, the wind-driven tide was almost at the base of the boardwalks, a few feet of beach, but not a lot.  We saw maybe a half dozen other folks, but the beach was mainly left to us, a few gulls and shorebirds.  The surf water was warm since the surface layer was being blown in.  The same strong onshore wind piled the spindrift in long curls of bubbles where they were left by the receding waves.  As a child visiting my grandparents on the Outer Banks (where the wind is more often blowing than not!), I thought the spindrift was magical stuff and I loved chasing it across the wet sand and gathering handfuls of it.  I still think it's a bit of magic, but it's a lot further down to the sand to pick it up!

Sunday, May 20th: warm

It's 70 degrees on my back porch at 7:45 AM,  bright sunshine and already breezy.  High today in the mid-80's with more of the persistent breeze out of the SW and a chance of a thundershower later.

Even though the strong breeze makes venturing onto the beach a bit unpleasant at times and was even blowing up mini-whitecaps on the Sandcastle pool last evening, it IS a direct reminder of the past.  That same breeze is the one that was so welcomed in Charleston during the hot season, so much so that houses were built with piazzas positioned to make the most of the breeze's cooling effects.  We still appreciate that breeze from our porch.  In fact, one of us is out there reading the paper and sipping coffee right now--and the other one will soon be there too!

Here's a local critter who entertained a few of us recently outside the Village Bistro.  He was quite unconcerned about our presence as he raided the trash.  He had already extracted and examined the garbage bag that was on top and, presumably eaten any prizes.  But there was still something enticing further down the receptacle.  As we watched, he tried every trick and contortion to reach it.  He would plant his rear feet on either side of the opening and then stretch way down, much of his body disappearing into the opening.  As we left, he was still working at it.  In the meantime, he had put on quite a nice after-dinner show--Kiawah style.

This really IS the beginning of the summer season--even the Michiganders are headed north.  Safe trip and an early return! 

Saturday, May 19th: very warm

It's 70 degrees on my back porch at 7:15 AM,  the sun is shining brightly and there's only the slightest breeze.  Early summer weather continues today with a high in the upper 80's.  Good beach weather!

It's Saturday and He Who Must Play Tennis gets the chance to--first time in two weeks.  He, of course, is convinced that he has forgotten how to swing the racquet, but I have a hunch it will all come back to him very quickly.  A full-time job away from the island has really cut into tennis time!

We had another sign of summer yesterday, a mid-afternoon power outage.  I haven't heard what the cause was, but I imagined at the time that a mass of folks finally got just a bit too warm and said, "OK, enough!" and flipped on the AC at the same time.  Anyway, we have an assortment of time zones in our house now, depending upon how the various clocks react to loss of power.  Of course, the VCR clock is still precise since it is regulated by some sort of secret communication with an atomic clock  (hidden deep in a cave in the Catoctin Mountains?)  It's a relief to know we can be so precise about our videotaping--assuming there were something on TV we wanted to tape and that we got all the buttons pushed in the correct sequence.  Of course, that clock does always offer up the correct time, but you have to lie on the floor in front of the TV to read it!

Happy Birthday to my brother!. 

Friday, May 18th: hot and a bit more humid

It's 70 degrees on my back porch at 7:15 AM, overcast and still.  A cardinal provides the major melody this morning with raucous interjections by the blue jays--and there's some squeaky thing going on too!  But mainly, it's the jays and the cardinals--the real boys of summer!  Expect the high this afternoon to approach 90, fueled by winds out of the south and southwest.

I was awake in the wee hours this morning and as I looked out into the darkness, there was suddenly a bright flash of light, then another, and another, rising in a straight path from near the ground, through the river birch branches and then laterally out of my sight.  I arose and went out on the back porch to see if I could once again glimpse this flashing visitor and there in the quiet darkness, I saw it again--the season's first firefly.  Its light seemed all the brighter for its singularity and for the lack of any other light to pale the darkness.  Another gift, and a reminder that sometimes it takes a little darkness to let us see the beauty. 

Thursday, May 17th: gettin' hot!

It's 68 degrees on my back porch at 7:15 AM.  We are beginning to notice the morning haze that comes with the warm and humid SC summer.  Oh well, it just makes those clear blue sky mornings that much more special!  It's definitely a bit more humid today and the heat is beginning to take hold.  High today will be in the upper 80's, maybe even 90.

Almost overnight, my gardenia bush has burst into bloom.  The nearly fleshy, white petals shine in profusion against the dark green leaves, punctuating the shade under the oaks.  There's a spot as I walk down the drive that I go from jasmine perfume to gardenia.  I'm one of those persons who really likes the smell of the marsh (I love the salty tang of that rich environment!), but this floral potpourri is quite something else and exquisitely delightful!  Now, if I could just attach an aroma file to this message...

Here's a Kiawah cat that's also quite something else again.  Actually it's one of the bobkitties peering out from his River Course den.  He doesn't seem to take to being a photographic subject quite as readily as some of the other Kiawah felines and we thank Jim Jordan, the town's wildlife biologist for risking life and limb (well, at least shin!) to take this shot.

Wednesday, May 16th: nice

It's 65 degrees on my back porch at 7:15 AM, sunny and still. High in the mid- to upper 80's today with lots of sunshine.

"To everything there is a season" and certainly, Kiawah is a grand place to enjoy them all.  For the past several years, many of you have joined me on my back porch to check out the weather and the morning.  I've used the opportunity to share a little of my Kiawah experience with you, the quiet beauty and abundant gifts that add sparkle to the rich fabric of this incredible place.  I've taken advantage of your good nature to regale you with the athletic and culinary exploits of He Who Must Play Tennis and the feline mysteries and misdeeds of Molly and Zoë.  I think most of my family have passed through this space at one time or another.  All in all, it has been a pleasure!

But the seasons change and it's time to change with them.  After May 31st, the morning report from my back porch will no longer appear.  But, I've gotten rather accustomed to writing notes about the little things that anchor my life and gladden my heart and I will continue to do so--another format, another site.

In the meantime, spring is moving right along here and hints of summer are appearing, mainly moist breezes out of the south and southwest and hungry mosquitoes. These next three to four weeks are special ones--days that are warm, but still comfortably so; mornings that begin really early; and twilights that stretch long into evening.  Perfect times for my back porch.