Shell Picture Time!
I wanted to share a little bit of my passion for shelling with you through pictures because words can only take you so far. The shells shown here were all found on either Sanibel at Lighthouse Beach, Cayo Costa or at Blind Pass. Most were the result of numerous trips to Sanibel and at varying tides and months. As scientific as we like to think we are — checking to see when low tide is, which are the best months, how deep to dive — we've discovered all those things don't really mean too much. When it comes right down to it, we're going to find whatever God wants us to find for that day so we've embraced that because He keeps rewarding us with such beauty! No complaints here…
Two of my favorite shells, because of their vibrant colors, are scallops and horse conchs. Any shell I find that is orange or purple just blows me away. It's unbelievable how incredible God has made these shells! Take a look:
One of the shells that never ceases to thrill me when I find it is the alphabet cone. Once in a while you can find them all-but-buried in the sand, with just that hint of spotted brown or orange showing. Where I've been finding them lately though is under one or two layers of shells, with those shell layers also buried in the sand.
We use a technique under water that I call "sand moving". Without ever touching the sand (or ripping up fingers on the edges of shells) you rapidly wave your hand back and forth in close proximity to the sand and — voilà!-- the sand is moved away and shells are revealed in layer upon layer. There is nothing that quickens my heart more than seeing a good-sized alphabet cone exposed. Two-and-a-half inches is nice, but I'm hopeful to find that 3-4 incher some day:
There's more I want to share but it's late so check back soon for more colorful pix that explain why I dive every chance I get. Happy shelling!
Hey Mike:
WOW! I have been diving with you a long time and I guess I did not realize you had so many horse conchs. What a beautiful collection you have.
Vicki
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I have a seashell blog too and am writing about the alphabet cone and will link to this page. Nice photos and beautiful collection of shells.
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Loved your comments on finding what God wants you to find. I agree! Each "shell treasure" I find is truly a gift from God! I am always so amazed at the incredible beauty and design of each tresure I find! It is one of my happiest way to pass the day.
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Hi Joyful Dolphin,
What a cool screen name! The God-thing is just a reminder to me, personally, that God is in control and I needn't worry. I mentioned in one of my blogs that my favorite scripture is Jeremiah 29:11 - "For I know the plans I have for you," declares the Lord, "plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future." Though I still get bogged down sometimes, I eventually remember this and let the worries go.
Thanks for reading and continued Happy Shelling!
Mike
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Hi Mike, interesting that you mention GOD because I am convinced that each time I find a beautiful shell is because GOD put it there for me to find. He knows I will be thanking Him for quite some time. I found my first Junonia 2 yrs ago. I always find the most beautiful shells, GOD is good, all the time. GOD bless all of you shell seekers.
How many of you have found those shells that comes from Mexico? I will be back to Sanibel in
the summer for sure. Can't wait.....
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we are your neighbors - we have a fishing charter business in boca grande
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Thanks for your comments, Kelli. Wish I lived a little closer to Sanibel because I'd probably be there every day! Only made it to the beach one time this year due to re-starting a business and family obligations. I sure do miss shelling! Next year...
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How rare is a Black Bonnet? I have only found 2 & one was a Gray, not really black. They were found on Santa Rosa Island, FL. Thanks
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Hi Florence,
I've been on many other Florida shelling blogs and seen people posting pictures of Black Bonnets but I got the feeling they are a somewhat rare find, depending on where you shell. I've never even been lucky enough to find a regular Scotch Bonnet! I did find an unblemished Junonia after three years of shelling though, so I'm happy!
Thanks for commenting and happy shelling!
Mike
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