The social distancing we’re all experiencing has touched all of our lives. As much as it distresses all of us, it’s the correct course of action. Looking on the bright side, imagine how joyous it will be when we are able to hug and kiss our loved ones in person!
In the meantime, use Facetime, Zoom, Skype or schedule a “drive-by” for waves and blowing kisses while practicing social distancing(where possible) to brighten your days and your loved ones as well. Do WHATEVER it takes to stay safe, healthy and well.
While Ray and I are social distancing, we’ve been able to take some beautiful walks and drives around. Our latest walk around Chatham was on a gorgeous sunny day. We feel so lucky to be surrounded by many beaches, nature trails, and parks.
If on your visits around Chatham you’ve never been to the Monomoy Wildlife Refuge, you’re really missing out on a naturally beautiful place. On the day we visited, it was high tide. A lot of the trail is hard to navigate at high tide. Low or mid-tide is best to plan your hike/walk. Ray and I are walkers. The Headquarters and Visitors Center is open mid-April thru September and is staffed by friendly, knowledgeable volunteers. It’s not a big center but has loads of information. Check it out.
There are several informational signs about flowers and birds. This is one of the best bird-watching sites on Cape Cod. As well as a great place to spot seals or go on a seal tour. Restrooms are open when the visitors center is open. Take a photo of the overlook facing east out at the barrier beach that has changed dramatically over recent years. What formerly was a stretch of beach that stretched from North Beach and formed a land bridge to Monomoy Island is now breached in several places and these “breaches” can be seen from the refuge.
Your next sight is the stairs going down to the beach and to the trail. There are 57 steps down (and 57 up) but well worth the journey. The beaches are covered with soft sand and are less crowded than many of the other popular beaches in the area. Keep in mind when you are hiking, walking or beaching, that the refuge closes promptly a 5 p.m.
The refuge is a wonderful place to explore and see one of Chatham’s treasures.
As we drove back to the Inn from the refuge, we passed Water Street. I wanted you to see what I think is the most beautiful tree in Chatham. It’s a Copper Beech Tree. It’s stark but slowly is beginning to welcome spring. It’s huge and when in full leaf, magnificent. I’ll make sure to post pictures when she is in her full beauty.
All of these beautiful sights filled us with joy, peace, and hope during this difficult time. We wish you joy in the small things that you do, peace and contentment knowing that you are doing all you can do to say safe and healthy and hope that we will all be getting together with our loved ones in just a little while longer.
As we look forward to our 25TH season, we send warm wishes to you all.
Ray and Judy
