Yesterday I put my Mom on a plane back to Connecticut so she could join the rest of my family as they nervously await Hurricane Sandy's arrival. Ironically, just the day before, we were walking the historical streets of Galveston, admiring the great houses- the Storm Survivors of the deadly 1900 hurricane. A hurricane that claimed an astounding 6000 lives!
Galveston is a testament to hurricane ingenuity and steadfastness. After the 1900 hurricane, the people of Galveston built a seawall and raised every surviving structure to ensure they would survive the next 100 years and beyond.
Autumn has finally arrived in coastal Texas. On our walk, the crisp air was complimented by a host of festive doorways, open windows, and social laughter pouring out from garden parties.
The elaborate woodwork and brightly colored homes require only the simplest of Halloween decor to spark the imagination. Galveston's notorious ghosts were easily spotted so close to October 31!
Grand Victorian homes with wide open porches greet all passers-by!
There are eerie secret cottages who have survived decades of storms with their lush landscape intact. Amongst the pecan tree shaded palm fronds- wee gargoyles post their watch.
Hurricane Ike decimated the Island again in 2008. Islanders who lost precious trees found a unique way to preserve what was still rooted in the ground. Local woodcarvers were hired to create a masterpiece of the homeowners' choosing. These sculptures can be found around East End Galveston in Island themes, guitars, and dogs.
One decorated doorway steals the show for me every year. Branches tangle in with skeletons, pumpkins, spiders and more- all sprawling along the entryway and continuing throughout the gardens. I love the pale teal backdrop and the playful gingerbread details in the woodwork that frame this homeowner's spirit!
Another Islander managed to capture a larger than life ghost in a two story antique iron bird cage! If trick or treaters dare pass the spector, they still have to contend with the massive bat who has assigned himself to protect the Halloween treats!
This year, Galveston breathed easy through every named storm that formed. Having lived in Connecticut, Boston, Florida and now the Texas Coast, hurricane season is a time of nervous weather watching. I will be praying for my family, friends, and everyone in the path of Hurricane Sandy. May this unprecedented storm go easy.
LOVE & SAFE HARBOR
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