Immerse in an ECO-Tour and Experience Southwest Florida Islands by Boat

“Captain Brian Holaway is well versed in the intricacies of our unmatched locale. He can guide to and through a multitude of out-of-the way tidal creeks, bayous, keys and islands. More important is his passionate interest and respect for the region. With unique insights from his many explorations and his studies, not only does he identify the birds and wildlife that inhabit our semi-tropical watery land, but he explains their interconnectedness to their environment and each other. In addition, he shares the fascinating history of rugged people who came long before us: Florida Native Indians, the Calusa, the Spanish, the Cubans, early homesteaders, and the wisdom evident in the growth of their culture.

You will come away with great enjoyment and a new understanding of this beautiful place and its history.”

Historian, Betty Anholt
Author of Sanibel’s Story

Sunday, August 26, 2012

Capt. Brian's Back Porch Goes Inside














Tropical storm Isaac is forecast to scoot by later today through the night. There are many things to prepare for in a storm and yes shells are one of them. I spent much of the morning putting the shells off my back porch in safe containers. It was kind of like old home week. Every shell tells a story. I was remembering where I found the shells, Cayo Costa on a December full moon, The Ten Thousand Islands on a January full moon, Cayo Costa on a hot and sweaty day in August, Panama meeting new friends, camping on my boat under the stars, every shell tells a story. It is one of the beautiful things about shelling. I have included a picture of my boat and where it rides out tropical weather when we get it. The last picture is of two good luck shells that will stay on the boat to help ride out the storm. My thoughts go out to all my shelling friends along the Gulf Coast from Florida, Alabama, Louisiana, and Mississippi, take care in the storm. I look forward to seeing you all soon. Capt. Brian

15 comments:

Little Black Scrap Cat said...

Be Safe!!! We're thinking about y'all!!!

Nancy said...

Wow - that is one empty back porch! I can't believe it only took part of the morning to pack everything away - you must have had help :-) Melissa and I can sure relate to memories of Cayo on hot and sweaty days in August! Love the good luck shells in your boat! Take care and be safe!!!!

Kim@Snug Harbor said...

That's a lot of shells and a lot of work. You know, you should probably ship some of those shells to friends across the country for safe keeping.... LOL! Is there a story behind 2 lucky shells in the bottom of the boat or is that a sea superstition? Stay safe Brian!

Susan said...

No sprained ankles this time hopefully! Thinking of you and hoping your family rides this out safely and without any damage.

Kaybe said...

Enjoy a much needed day of rest.

Lori White said...

After being in town for Debbie, we can relate to the strong winds, rain, and all the effects of the storm. Stay safe and think about the good shelling once the storm passes!

Moira said...

Stay safe - I agree with Kim!! lol

Janet from IL said...

What a treasure trove! Love the large King's Crown Conch. I'd LOVE to find one of my own. The ones i have found have been alive..... Do you know if the juvenile KC looks different from a juvenile Fighting Conch?
Take care and stay safe!!

Roxanne Reinhart said...

Wow Brian. That looks like a lot of work. But definitely worth saving every last one of them. I love your coke bottles too. So glad that the storm was not any worse than it was. Can't wait to see what the sea spills onto the beach in the next week or so!!

Capt. Brian Holaway said...

The two shells I left on my boat were from two very young shellers. The first shell came from a very young sheller who I carried through the flats. Her older brother was a keen observer of shells. After two hours of exploring we started our trek back to the boat. The little girl said "this is for you". Twenty minutes later her older brother gave me the other shell. They have been on my boat ever since.

Capt. Brian Holaway said...

Susan, no sprained ankles on this storm. The storm moved to the west so all is good here.

Capt. Brian Holaway said...

Janet, The juvenile KC looks totally different from the juvenile fighting conch. The KC had sharp points and has strips that are dark brown with white strips. The fighting conch can be white and yellow. Both great finds!

Donna R from NY said...

A stunningly beautiful collection! Just think how easy your next post could be, just reverse the order of the pictures and you're done, lol!

Capt. Brian Holaway said...

That is funny Donna.

Janet from IL said...

Capt. Brian,
Thank you for your response. Can't wait to see what shells you find after Isaac!