On Monday I found myself with my camera in hand snapping pictures at the waters edge. They weren’t the most spectacular pictures, but they documented the most spectacular moments of my day. The gray overcast morning gave way to a bright and still afternoon in Menemsha Bight.

A friend, Tucker Pfortzheimer, stopped by for a few cold drinks to share with friends on the beach. We exchanged a few kind words and parted ways, but a few moments later he returned to share some excitement. A whale was a few hundred feet off the shore making its way from east to west down the Sound. I grabbed my camera and made my way to the beach sharing the excitement with a few other friends who sat nearby. We all stood evenly spaced along the shoreline watching in awe.

I’m not sure what kind of whale it was — some said humpback, some said finback and others were adamant it was a minke. I think, because of the dorsal fins sickle shape and what’s described as a small, weak, bushy blow, that it was a minke. While standing on the beach quietly observing this remarkable creature of the sea and feeling somewhat awestruck, I began to think about Memorial Day. It is a day intended for reflection. It is a day to remember and show gratitude for those we lost while honorably serving our country. I hope those deserving of our honor and gratitude would appreciate the few moments I stood looking out to sea watching a whale and thinking of them.

I’m not a naturalist by definition, but I do enjoy the sights and sounds of the outdoors. In addition to the whale siting I’ve had the pleasure of a few more noteworthy encounters. I had a lovely little visitor in my driveway the other morning. The bobwhites little feather-covered body stood in the middle of my driveway as if he were looking out for the safety of his companion as she pecked around in the grassy edge of the traveled way. He remained quite still for a number of moments. I stood silently enjoying his company. We parted ways when he turned and scurried off to join his mate. I considered calling my neighbors to suggest they bring their little girls, Nell and Mae Thomson, over to see them but then quickly realized the birds would likely scurry off too quickly for a view. I did tell their dad, Simon, to keep an eye out for this pretty little pair.

Although I am not a birder by any right, I can however quickly name cardinals, chickadees, sparrows and, perhaps a few more. A few days later was my birding windfall. A Scarlet Tanager rested his wings on a tree branch and an Oystercatcher looked for an evening meal along the southern shore.

I’m not sure I would have noticed all this simple beauty if life’s pace hadn’t slowed down.

Although the holiday weekend brought torrential rain it also brought some pleasant weather and an opportunity for folks to enjoy much needed fresh air. There were family barbecues, fishing adventures and, best of all, friends seeking local take-a-way meals. You can now call in or order online at the Tavern, Galley, Deli, Larsen’s and Menemsha Fish.

Be aware the parking adjustments that have taken place in Menemsha are twofold: to limit overcrowding on the beach and provide an opportunity to quickly pick up orders at our local eateries.

Please keep Nathan Larsen in your positive thoughts. The youngest son of Stanley Larsen was traveling along North Road on his motorcycle when he collided with a motor vehicle. He suffered a broken femur, among other injuries, and was take by Medflight to a Rhode Island hospital. Be sure to check in with Stanley the next time you’re in Menemsha. An outpouring of love will aid in Nathan’s speedy recovery.