Island Beach State Park, NJ

From Island Beach State Park in October, Granola, Pie

Well, that's how much gas costs in New Brunswick, New Jersey. Or at least what it cost as we drove down to Island Beach State Park on Saturday. Just thought I'd record it before it jumps back up to $4.00. My condolences to my friends in other states with higher gas prices.

But I'm not posting now about gas or politics or any other un-fun topic. I'm writing about my recent visit to the beach. Or the Shore, if you're from Joisey, which I never feel like I am despite the fact I've lived here most of my life.

From Island Beach State Park in October, Granola, Pie

John and I had been to Island Beach State Park before, but had yet to drive all the way out to the end. Above is a photo of what you see when you get all the way to the end. Before I go any further, I have to impress upon you how incredibly windy it was on Saturday. Well, not gale-force winds, but probably around 40-45 mph winds. We walked up the beach first because the wind would be in our faces, then, we walked back with the winds pushing us along.

From Island Beach State Park in October, Granola, Pie

Surprisingly, there were no surfers. However, there were plenty of people (mostly men) fishing for what we assumed would be bass. We saw one fellow wearing waders with neoprene socks, but no boots, catch a couple of nice fish that he threw back because they were too small. There were no fly-fishers due to the insane winds.

From Island Beach State Park in October, Granola, Pie

We came at low tide, so we walked along what looked like a sand shelf with shells stuck half inside it. The wind was so noisy that when I pulled my hood back to straighten my hat and sunglasses, I was amazed that John could hear me over it.

From Island Beach State Park in October, Granola, Pie

Above is a shell I found and took with me. It's interior is rimmed with different shades of purple. It's exterior is striped in many different colors. I'm not sure where I'll put it yet, but it will always remind me of the very windy day we spent at the beach in October.