OCTOBER ON THE NEW JERSEY SHORE

While waiting for the arrival of Sandy, hyped by the media to be "the Perfect Storm" as tropical storm/hurricane meets Nor'easter, it seemed the right time to update my blog. October is usually a special time at the shore and this one, thus far has been no exception.

The beaches are practically empty, the sky is blue, the goldenrod is still in bloom.

The last of the Monarchs have continued their long migration to Mexico, with only a few stranglers remaining.

The Laughing Gulls and Sanderlings are following the Sand Pipers South,

Leaving the beaches to the larger Herring Gulls for the winter.

The fishing continues from the beach,

even on colder days, but with perhaps less enthusiasm.

The surfers come out in droves when the waves are up - a common occurrence this time of the year.

Good rides are there to be had,

And the paddle boarders too try their luck.

Often the days end with beautiful sunsets reflected in the clouds over the ocean.