I love the beach. Any beach. Anywhere. Plop me in the sand by the water and let it be. Highly sensitive people like me seem to derive serenity and joy from the water. It's just the way it is for us. I carry not a worry in the world when I'm at the beach. I'm happier. I don't fret about things. Food tastes better. My dreams are better. I see more clearly. I feel strong and I'm at peace.
I've been going to St. Simons Island, GA all my life. For those of you who do not hail from the South (bless your hearts), we DO have a coast line here in Georgia! It's small and not very gorgeous, but it's our coast and we love it. Plus it only takes about 3 hours to drive to the nearest beach from where I live. I'm here for it.
Anyway, a few years ago I wrote something about my love for St. Simons, and it showed up in my memories today. So I thought I'd share it with y'all too. Some of you have read this a time or two before. I wrote it 7 years ago and I'm pretty sure I share it on social media every year. Sorry, y'all. Anyway here it is.
People have asked me why I love St. Simons Jsland so much, and some people even think it's strange that I come here by myself sometimes. On my walk this morning I made a little mental list of reasons why:
1. I am an empty-nester, single Mom so "by myself" is a way of life for me and no big deal.
2. I get to look at the ocean anytime I want to. I did yesterday while propped up in bed and eating vanilla ice cream out of the carton.
3. The sidewalk on Ocean Boulevard is shady, uneven, curvy, and wonderful. Kind of like some people I know.
4. Lots of folks seem to like that sidewalk too, and they always smile and say good morning when our paths cross. Or they give me a heads-up when they're about to pass me. I never pass anybody.
5. There are some lovely people who planted their grape tomatoes in a sunny spot right next to the sidewalk thus affording me the opportunity to "pick and eat" on my way by. And I do.
6. On trash day the whiff of rotting crab legs, shrimp shells, and Old Bay Seasoning is actually pretty fantastic. Way better than rotting takeout food and cigarette butts.
7. There are some charming old beach cottages still standing and I like to imagine their stories as I pass by.
8. I like to daydream about living in one of those old bungalows someday. I would be that quirky lady who spends her days in a flowy house dress - watering flowers, eating tomato sandwiches and cantaloupe, reading books, and enjoying a glass of wine on the screened porch at sundown.
Content.
Mama Tries
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