We made another quick stop at the three small islets by Baie de l’Embouchure on New Year’s Eve. We had a particularly great time walking out towards the southernmost islet in ankle-deep water, then letting the current push us back to Saint Martin at great speed through very shallow water.

As I gradually close out my photo library for 2010, I have a few insects from around our apartment in December.

And, a few more photos of the sky.

And now, a break from our regular programing to share a little holiday culture from Grand Case. First, a few local buildings, including the Christmas house.

Next, the annual Christmas parade, including the Snow Princess and Johnny as Santa.

And, what holiday season would be complete without the traditional Caribbean pirate party?

I had a couple last excursions in December, one of which was the inauguration of a new trail around Pinel Islet. There were a variety of important folks there, like the prefect of French Saint Martin and the director of coastal areas for France, who had flown in to check out Saint Martin. Yann and Marie had made a fake boat with wildlife games for children that is now on the beach at the end of the new trail.

The other excursion was an SXM Trails hike from La Belle Creole to various parts of Terres Basses. En route we stopped by Le Trou de David and at the end of our walk we lucked out with a lovely rainbow.