Sittin' on the dock of the bay...
The calm water and light breeze in the summer months on the Barnegat Bay Municipal Dock in NJ are always inviting. Sitting here someone is bound to walk by and give you a warm smile or just say, "hello". It is simply a great place to go to clear your head, or get inspired. I was inspired to start this blog. Someone I work with told me there are sailing lessons from out of this bay. Why don't I know this, wouldn't it be obvious? People are crabbing here everyday, I haven't tasted one local crab.
I was sitting on the dock reminiscing about New Brunswick - always being able to find unique gifts, the best park to go walking, knowing where to get ripe seasonal veggies, and mouthwatering fajitas for half price on a Monday night. I did it all locally and cheap. I befriended my local bartender and she bartered free drinks for some computer help. It was out of necessity; I was a poor college student with no car. These days, I am living in a town, where the only people I know are the people that live on the borders of my property. After choosing to write this blog and take some pictures for it, I met the great people in the photo above - so friendly and happy to help me with my first blog. ((thanks!!))
I would like to say I know what to do on a random Friday night when I am bored, where to get a cheap haircut, and what pizza place makes the best pie, but I don't know. One place I do know is Sweet Jenny's restaurant downtown - of course I had to find a great breakfast place.
I try to buy local, but often find myself opening the popular shopping websites when I need something "fast". It doesn't always need to be fast, I sometimes just don't want to put in much effort, or want to get it over with. We are living in a time, and I am living in an area, where there are little job prospects and times are tough. Some of the blame is that we don't shop local; there is no sense of community, and there is little bartering going on anywhere. These are all things that make neighborhoods great, attract visitors, spark ideas, and make businesses thrive. I know there are like-minded people that believe we can change some simple behaviors to make a big impact.
I hope you will join me on my journey to keep it local, discovering what my town and the neighboring areas have to offer, uncovering local hidden gems, personalities and hope that I inspire you to do the same.
Comment below to suggest any spots I should check out!
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If you would like to tell me about your experience in Barnegat, your local store, or share an amazing offer with my readers, just comment below, or contact me.
