Monday, September 21, 2009

Barnegat Light, Boat featuredTuesday night on the Discovery Channel - "Swords"

Nancy Gallimore, Innkeeper
Sand Castle Bed and Breakfast

Prior to converting my home to a bed and breakfast and becoming an innkeeper, I was involved with the commercial fishing industry right here in Barnegat Light, New Jersey. Our fishermen are bold, independent, hard-working men who have a special love of life on the ocean and the challenge of making a living out there. Some of the boats specialize in catching swordfish and the Discovery Channel has focused its efforts on filming several east coast boats in a new series called "Swords". One of the boats featured on the show is called the "Frances Anne", and is owned by the son of my friends, Don & Fran Mears. Don taught his sons well over the years, not only about how to catch fish, but also how to be gentlemen of the sea, respecting other vessels as well as mother nature.
If you have the opportunity to watch this exciting series, you will surely gain a new appreciation for the fresh fish put into the market and onto your table. Great shots of Barnegat Light and all that goes into making a swordfish trip successful from start to finish is evident in each new episode. That along with the personalities of the different captains and crew members and the forces of nature keeps me riveted to my TV every Tuesday night at 8 pm Eastern time.
And maybe, while you are having a delicious breakfast at the Sand Castle Bed & Breakfast, you too will look out the window of the sun porch like a guest did the other day and ask me....."Is that blue boat over there the Frances Anne from that new show on Discovery channel "Swords"?


Monday, September 14, 2009

A Wonderful Summer.......

Nancy Gallimore, Innkeeper
Sand Castle Bed and Breakfast

Summer weather at the shore fooled the weathermen as usual this year.....we heard reports about rain in New York, North Jersey, and Pennsylvania in July and August but the sun would be shining down on LBI! The ocean was clear and blue and warmer than usual but no jellyfish! We are so lucky to have this piece of paradise as our backyard. Hopefully you were able to take some time away this summer. If you haven't tried the north end of LBI, consider scheduling a little break here.....you too will be hooked after you enjoy our pristine beaches, picturesque sand dunes, unique little shops, well maintained homes with flowers blooming in pretty gardens, and that slower pace we often long for but rarely find.

As summer slips away, I look forward to fall.....my favorite time of year. The crowds are gone, the beach is still beautiful and the nights begin to get cooler. Sunsets are spectacular and dinner specials are more available. The first weekend of October brings us the nationally recognized "Chowderfest", where chefs from area restaurants showcase their best red and white chowders and the general public serves as judge, voting for the best in each category. This event is held in Beach Haven, so the traffic has no impact on Sand Castle guests.