Thursday, June 3, 2010

The Blessing of The Fleet. Pictures of Loveliness.

There are many experiences that are unique to living near the sea, one of those experiences being The Blessing of the Fleet.

The Blessing of the Fleet is a tradition that began centuries ago in Mediterranean fishing communities. The practice was predominantly Catholic and a blessing from a local priest was usually said to ensure a safe and bountiful fishing season. (Note: Now ministers from all religious faiths participate.)

A few days ago, Steve was invited to the downtown harbor area in Manteo to pray the ceremonial blessing.

IMG_4372

I was tied up doing some other things and so I sent my capable assistant, Sarah, with Steve to cover the event.

IMG_4347 IMG_4351 IMG_4354 IMG_4364 IMG_4370

At the end of the ceremony, my aforementioned capable assistant discovered some handcrafted displays that had been set up nearby and so she seamlessly (and happily) transitioned from official photographer to official handcrafted item browser. It’s all in a day’s work when you live in a lovely place like Manteo!

IMG_4337

And speaking of lovely places, last week we attended a graduation party for a young lady in our church which was held at the home of another church family. (You may recall that I posted pictures several weeks ago of a gorgeous local hair salon; the salon’s owner was also the hostess of this party.)

Since ladies usually like to see how other people decorate (well, at least I do), I thought I’d include a few pictures of this gathering’s loveliness.

(These pictures were taken by another guest at the party.)

grad2

If you look out the far window, you can see the beautiful bay beyond.

grad3

grad4

grad5

grad6

grad1

grad9

grad7

So now you’ve had your dose of seaside culture and decorative loveliness for today. Thanks for stopping by!

6 Had Something To Say (Just click here!):

Anonymous said...

Thanks for taking those pictures of table decorations, I want to save them for future reference they are great!

Jean C

Bridgette said...

Hi Becky! I've been reading your blog for a long time and have commented some, but just let me say that I love reading what you have to share! You and your family are such an encouragement to those in your "blog world" through your posts! I always love the pics, too! It makes me want to keep the camera close by!:-) Tell Sarah that she did a great job with the pics of the Blessing of the Fleet!

Have a blessed weekend!

Anonymous said...

Great photos, Sarah! We have the "Blessing of the Fleet" up here in Stonington as well and it is quite a day of festivities & foodand much, much, much tradition involved. So glad you are living such wonderful, new experiences in Manteo!

Love,
Guerrina

Saffyres said...

Oooh - great photos!

And that dinner party - Oh my goodness! Love the decorations!

Tell me more about the tulle & lights on the porch!!!

Marshmallow Woman said...

Dear Becky,
Whenever I'm tired, discouraged, or afraid your blog never fails to remember me of all the good things that are "out there". Thank you and please, never ever change your attitude toward life. :)

Olivia.

A Mom's Serious Blunder said...

Are things as lovely and calm as they appear to be in Manteo? I need to visit if they are, because my life is anything but calm lately...Is it a vacation/tourist kind of town?