From Jul 13, 2011
The forest fire at Holly Shelter just a few miles away continues to drift smoke into the sunrises, making them feel like eerie primordial events.  Even though the light is soft, it's nice to wear sunglasses that filter the smoke and show more of the light.
From Jul 13, 2011
Despite the fire, life goes on, as these turtle tracks attest.  On Wednesday, these tracks led the way to a false crawl, where a mama sea turtle attempted to create a nest but could not.  She'll be back. 

From Jul 13, 2011
On Thursday morning, I met one after another Turtle Patrol person also looking for evidence of her return.  It is a loving vigil.
From Jul 8, 2011
Just a few days before, another mama successfully laid her eggs very near this false crawl.  The turtle folks moved it because this big ol' yellow house is where the TV show One Tree Hill is filmed, and the posse of people who come to make the show couldn't care less about the turtles.  The house is near a part of the beach where there are no houses, so if it weren't for the TV cast and crew, this would be a good spot.
From Jul 13, 2011
So much effort to come home after two decades and climb out of the water for this ritual.  How not to be in awe?