The Right Man for the Job

Gil Langley has been the Tourism Director for the island for about six months here. Sometimes we find that we have to "acclimate" the new guy but Gil jumped into the fire right away and hasn't looked back. Who knew that a Missouri boy would have so much fun mingling with island tourists?

Identified!

Thanks to Mary Lu Hartley of Phoenix, MD for identifying our visitor as the Polka-dot Wasp Moth. It makes sense that it was resting on that particular window because they feed on oleanders and we have a very large oleander just coming into bloom near the porch. Thanks Lu.

Secrets Revealed

There are lots of hidden gems that I pass along the way on my walk. These are two of my favorites. I stuck my camera through the hedge into this tiny but inviting yard with all the ingredients required for a pleasant place to read a book, grab a nap or contemplate the surrounding flowers.

Many of you have expressed an interest in the Easter Egg Cottage, but I looked a little bit closer this time and found this animal tea party in the yard. Once again, it pays to stop and smell the roses.

What's This on My Window?

Anyone? Anyone? We can't find our insect book to identify it. It was on our porch window during breakfast. Feel free to answer via the comment link below.

Nice Afternoon for an Alfresco Lunch

These folks had the right idea, dining out on the patio at Cafe Karibo on this beautiful afternoon. We've had a streak rivaling Cal Ripken's of perfect weather lately. Yes, we could use the rain but the tourists are all loving it...

Riding off into the Island Sunset

These guys are riding up Beech Street toward the river, as anyone in their right mind does around sunset time here. Actually, you don't even have to make it to the river; you can stand in the middle of the street and just look in that direction to catch all of the colors. As you can see, there's not a lot of traffic to be concerned with.

Cockeyed Cookout

I think that a couple of beers are in order before attempting this feat. Maybe they ran out of levels at the hardware store below.

A Wall and Two Palms

After living in the North most of my life, it still strikes me that even our brick walls look very island-like. Perhaps it's the turquoise trim and the two palm trees that add the tropical charm?

New Ticket Kiosk

Cecelia McCarthy puts the finishing touches on the exterior of the new ticket kiosk for Amelia River Cruises, while her husband, Kevin, tidies up inside. Currently tickets can only be purchased onboard just before departure of any of their three daily cruises. As soon as the kiosk opens, you'll be able to walk up all day long to purchase your tickets for their cruises, and, possibly, other attractions. Kevin and Cecelia have threatened to rent out the kiosk as a waterfront room. I offered to give them some advice on linens. I don't think that either one of those things will be happening.

Polly Want a View?

This happy little parakeet was enjoying the view from the front porch on this beautiful spring day. I'm not sure if the singing was from the view, the day, or just being outside but I was doing the same when we crossed paths. As usual, you can click on the photo for a larger view.

Mutiny on the Dinghy

I have no idea what the pelicans did with the captain and crew but they're clearly in charge of the craft now.

Amaryllis Blooms

Before I moved to the South, I always thought that Amaryllis bulbs only bloomed for Christmas. I guess that's only in your living room in a pot. I prefer them in their natural unforced state but that little bit of color sure did add warmth to the house in December in Baltimore.

Wanna Buy a Church?

Back in the days of segregation, this building was the African American Catholic church in the historic district. No longer needed after integration, it fell into disrepair and was purchased a few years ago by a couple who converted it to a house. I've never been inside but I'm told that they've done a fabulous restoration. Here's the listing if you're interested.

Shrimp Boats and Sunken Boats

And a nice view of the Amelia River from the new boardwalk.

The Distinguished Second Earl of Egmont

His Lordship paid a visit to the Fairbanks House on his way to the History Alive event put on by the Amelia Island Museum of History this evening. Many characters of old will be resurfacing at the Palace Saloon tonight. We were honored by his visit.

Polly the Trolley at Your Service

Willy and Polly are just waiting to take you on a tour of the northern end of the island from the foot of Center Street to Old Town and the back gate of Ft.Clinch State Park. Willy goes out three times daily... unless he's fishing.

The Wild Horses of Cumberland Island

This "band" of horses was stampeding up the beach as we passed by on the Amelia River Cruises afternoon tour. You may be able to see a week-old fowl in the middle, well protected by the rest of the herd. There was another stallion chasing from behind trying to steal a female. If these stallions are not successful at stealing a female or being accepted into a bachelor herd, they will die within three years of loneliness. Everybody needs a buddy. That's a good life lesson. If you click on the photo you can enlarge it and see the little guy a little bit better.

15,000 Miles to the Fairbanks House

Guests have traveled from far and wide to come to the Fairbanks House this week. Try...1000 miles from Oxford, Michigan for this mother and daughter...

6000 miles from Hamble-le-Rice, England for this charming couple on their eleventh visit...


and - the winner - 8000 miles from Saudi Arabia for these ladies for a family reunion. We're truly honored that these folks have selected us from anywhere that they could have gone in the world.

Mother/ Daughter Jumpers

Today's jump brought to you by Kim and Shannon of St. Pete, Florida. Way to go Mom. In all fairness, Shannon did have some nice hang time but Kim got in a second jump just as the camera did its thing. Two fine examples of Fairbanks House jumpin' joy.

Ralph of Publix

Ralph is my favorite employee at our local Publix. He's traveled the world, been a Fernandina guy for quite some time and is always kind, interesting and patient with the 45 bags that I take out to the car each time I shop for the inn. Just about a year ago, he gave all of us quite a scare when he had a heart attack at the store at the end of his shift. After many procedures, therapies and perscriptions, he's back as good as ever and we're all the better for it. Congratulations Ralph on your excellent recovery. We missed you.