With the threat of snow in the forecast, I took a walk on the beach before dawn. The moon was setting over the bay and the clouds were brightening over the ocean. The tide was on its way back in and hundreds of gulls were devouring huge deposits of tiny white clams that had been washed up on the beach during the night. As I walked over the wet sand groups of birds reluctantly took flight to clear my path but quickly regained their position over the clumps of clams that were strewn up against the seawall and all over the beach. I never did see the sun's rays as the clouds thickened and blocked all but the light. Only a light breeze stirred the air and several walkers were out for a morning stroll. As I write this it's well after 10 pm and still no snow, but the winds have picked up and rain is slapping against the window.Nantasket Beach gulls and clams at dawn