Outer Banks Articles & Shorts - Issue 10: Spring 2016

PUBLISHER’S LETTER

Outer Banks This Week - Spring 2016 - Issue 10Though as I write this, spring has not yet arrived on the Outer Banks, there are hints of it. Last night as I walked around Manteo, the Blue Star Creeper, the groundcover with the fragrant blue flowers, was already blooming in several yards, emitting its sweet oniony aroma that is such a harbinger of warmer days to come. It seems early for that, but then again with the weather as crazy as it’s been lately, who knows? Perhaps it’s right on time! We’re almost used to weeks that start out in the 70s then end in the 30s. But I have so many friends here who are literally counting down the days to spring, dreaming of their first non-wetsuit dive into Mother Ocean.

But let’s not hurry things. This time of year on these islands is a lot of what probably keeps many locals here. We prepare for the coming summer season with its influx of thousands, but we revel in the empty beaches, the less-crowded restaurants, the trips from Nags Head to Corolla that take 40 minutes instead of more than an hour. We take time to see friends at local night spots and spend some extra time with our workouts. We visit art galleries and get out into nature more.

We know the warmth that brings all our visitors is coming, though. The restauranteurs we worked with  for this issue are busy with their menus, the shopkeepers are making sure the right merchandise is on its way, the Y staff is helping clients get swimsuit ready, the vacation rental companies folks are constantly on the phone taking summer reservations, the accommodation owners are getting everything perfect. It’s a busy time!

Even more, then, to say again…let’s not hurry things. We can be busy but not hurried. Let’s keep our off-season state of being for as long as possible — of noticing the gaps between the actions, the pause amidst the achievements. There will be plenty of time to work and play hard under a hot sun.

VIEW A DIGITAL VERSION OF THIS ISSUE

With a Personal Touch

By Amelia Boldaji
It’s a small, but telling, detail that speaks volumes: Of all the vacation rental and property management companies on the Outer Banks, Joe Lamb, Jr. & Associates is the only one that doesn’t actually use the word realty in its name. Their focus is on people, and their chosen name underlines that fact. “Joe... Read More

Sanderling Resort: Not Just for Hotel Guests!

By Lexi Holian
Tranquil, oceanfront luxury is what first comes to mind when I think of the Sanderling Resort, quickly followed by visions of the sunset reflecting off the glistening Currituck Sound. Water and sky blend together in a wash of pink, purple, gold and saffron that is a reason to visit all in itself. With newly renovated... Read More

It's All About the Simple Things

By Lexi Holian
Picture that untouched stretch of shoreline after daybreak. The sand is soaking up the morning sun, the waves have gently washed away all footprints and little bird prints from yesterday’s strolls and there’s your seaside haven — a blue canvas beach chair and an umbrella that would complete the scene except for one... Read More

The Outer Banks Brews

By Amelia Boldaji
“It’s almost beer,” reads the red and white sign that once stood on the side of the bypass to announce the Outer Banks Brewing Station’s grand opening in March 2001 and that now continues to adorn the inner stairwell that leads to their mezzanine dining area. “That confused a lot of people at first,” admits co-owner,... Read More

On the Clock Ocracoke

By Amelia Boldaji
Whether you’re a first-time or a repeat visitor to the shores of Ocracoke, you probably know that there are plenty of places to eat, play and stay that will keep you occupied for days ... if not for an entire season. But you’re on the clock, you say? No problem. Set your timers (but leave your office planners behind... Read More