The original activity for today, a paddle from Sunset Creek, had to be canceled due to high winds. Rather than scrub the day, Ellis and I scrambled for a last minute substitution and settled for a favorite hike at Fort Monroe. The notice went out early yesterday evening with hopes that some would take advantage of the last minute change. At 9:15 this morning, seven stalwart Tuesday Groupers and one Welsh Terrier (named "Lola") assembled at the Old Point Comfort Clubhouse for a windy stroll on the grounds of Fort Monroe. Walking today were Barry and Judy, Ellis and Marti, Andy, Bill Billings and me, Phyllis. Under overcast skies and a pretty stiff breeze, we added some layers and headed off to explore the Fort. We passed by the new Visitor's Center (closed on Tuesdays) stopping to peek in the window and then headed into the Fort. We climbed up to view the pet cemetery and admired the view of Hampton Roads from the top of the casemate. We learned some interesting stuff-like where Abraham Lincoln slept when he visited Fort Monroe and that Jefferson Davis was Barry's eighth cousin! We then headed over to the Boardwalk where we fought 20mph winds (at least) as we continued our walk northward towards Dog Beach. Judy, Barry and Lola turned for home at that point as it was considerably colder than they'd expected. The rest of us continued on, braving the high winds and cool temperatures. The beach was deserted and there were only a few other walkers on the boardwalk. The power of the waves breaking against the seawall was impressive and we admired the crash and spray of the waves. After pausing for a rest at the end of the boardwalk, we turned and headed back. The wind was now at our backs and the walking was much easier. And it was warmer too! We didn't see any porpoises in the water but we did see many pelicans. These handsome birds have made a spectacular comeback and at one point we counted over 2 dozen pelicans in one area fishing for their lunch! Speaking of lunch, we turned and headed for the clubhouse where we warmed up and ate our sandwiches, vienna sausages and tuna. After lunch, we walked over to the old firehouse where we enjoyed some traditional Tuesday Group ice cream. A last minute event cancellation turned into an absolutely wonderful day with good friends. Another triumph for the Tuesday Group!
Phyllis
View Bill's photos: https://photos.google.com/share/AF1QipPiHc0XH9REsC6vZUIxzcmpQmHyXfY4QiKb4I56lX6Zgoq5RmKRQi-jlvJR4_31tw?key=LXZMVVdsMzQzSHJTbmZSNGtoM2hXcXRPQk9XVlVB