Fallen Trees at Big Talbot Island, FL 
Small Trees at Big Talbot Island, FL 
Erosion at Big Talbot Island, FL
In November of 2018 we traveled to Florida with my mom for a family visit. My older sister lives in Fernandina Beach in the northeast corner of the state. One evening, my brother-in-law showed me pictures of this place that he knew I would love, but said we probably couldn’t go because my mother couldn’t make the walk. But I quickly realized that I was the earliest riser in the group and there was no reason I could not just get up early and go by myself.
The place was magical and the day was perfect. It was warm and not a cloud in the sky. Walking up and down the coast on this barrier island, it felt like being inside of a surrealist painting. I snapped dozens of pictures with my phone.
Interestingly, there were very few birds around. But as I sadly prepared to leave, I heard a cardinal call. Some people say cardinals can be spirits of our departed loved ones. I turned to see the bright red bird perched behind me and said “good morning, Dad”.
I especially liked the first and third photo. Very nice!
I can feel the magic of the place. The long shadows are as alive as the trees are dead.
Were the melting clocks and ants washed away by a high tide? I couldn’t resist that as your very appropriate surrealist comment brought that thought to mind. The story that goes along with these striking photos is lovely. Isn’t it nice how our art helps us to relive cherished memories.
I can smell and hear the ocean (and the cardinal!) as I read your story and look at the photographs. I’ve never felt a desire to go to Florida, but this story makes me think I might be wrong. Thank you!