Welcome back! That's what Lake Jocassee said to me this fine October 1 morning. She welcomed me with one of the most beautiful sunrises I have ever seen here. Kay and I attempted our yearly late September sojourn to the coast this week, only to be chased back by a very determined Hurricane Ian. This was not a week to be on the water, whether by the ocean or by this grand inland sea. As a native Floridian it is with great sadness that I see what has happened in that state, where the lessons of too many people living too close to the sea will never penetrate. Not on the South Carolina coast either. But oh, what a wonder it is to stand astonished at the ocean shore and soak in the power of coming tropical storms. The pounding, ferocious sea, the whipping wind, and the ease with which birds enjoy it all. I wonder if there is a lesson to be learned there.

LOONWATCH. I know, I know, it's early. But not impossible! My eyes will be up every morning early from here on, my ears open. The first loons will be floaters, mature loons who were unsuccessful breeders. Later come the breeding loons, and finally the youngsters, unescorted, unguided, as they make their first journey southward. So all you upstate lake residents, eyes up, ears open. And report in, please. Sightings on your lake would be most appreciated. And pictures. By all means! Email me at This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.. Eyes up, ears open.

SWIMMERS REPORT. Just kidding. Well, maybe on an 80 degree late afternoon, if that happens again this year. And that would be for a quick jump-in, not a respectable swim.