Under a New Light -

On the afternoon of January 1st everyone in Barnegat Light - and most of the surrounding county with their children and pets - seemed to be heading for the lighthouse. After years of darkness, Barnegat Lighthouse was refitted with a new (smaller, but adequate) Fresnel lens. We're back on the nautical charts!!

We walked up to the lighthouse in the freezing air, leaving the car at Kubel's because we couldn't find a spot any closer. The media was there along with everyone else, waiting for the beacon to appear. As it turned out we ended up walking back and watching the first light from Kubel's parking lot as we weren't able to get close enough to the base of the lighthouse to enjoy the ceremony - and because we could then jump right into the warmth (and craziness) as soon as the act was accomplished. And it was crazy. We decided to go back to the house for a while and come in for dinner when things calmed down.

As all the cars started to head back out we were part of the first traffic jam I've ever seen in Barnegat Light. I can happily go another 50 years without seeing another.

Congratulations to Old Barney! May you continue to watch over generations to come and be part of their memories as you will always be part of ours.