Around The Beach

Judy and I have never enjoyed swimming in the ocean. We are beach walkers and waders. I remember an event when we were at the beach when the girls were small tots. Judy and I were out about hip level in the ocean when Judy screamed and somehow jumped straight up into the air and into my arms. (I know- this was certainly coming to the aid of a lady in distress!). Judy screamed that something was attacking her!

I chuckled - she had been attacked by a six foot piece of seaweed. I unraveled the kelp from her legs and saved the wife from harm! Seaweed can be frightening to a mountain lady.

It is always fun to discover the critters the waves bring onto the beach. The laughing gulls also appreciate the bounties the waves bring.

This beach had quite a collection of Mermaid's Purses. These are the casing that surrounds the fertilized eggs of some sharks, skates (rays), and chimeras. They are among the common objects which are washed up by the sea. Because they are lightweight, they are often found at the strandline, the farthest point of the high tide. The egg cases that wash up on beaches are usually empty, the young fish having already hatched out.

Here is a ray that was washed upon the sand. It is obvious in a late stage of decay.

The backside of our hotel is shown below. Our room was in the section to your right (4th floor).

Our favorite time of the ocean is in the early morning. Since the room was located facing the East, there were opportunities to see beautiful sunrises.


Tomorrow - More From Around Nags Head