It turns out that Long Island is actually an island that is… well… long. Meaning, lots of shoreline. We skipped the touristy big beaches and opted for Long Beach, where we ran into very few other people.
I find the ocean beautiful and breathtaking and such, but unlike the Rocky Mountains, the red-rock desert, Tony Grove, and large portions of Japan, I feel no ownership of the ocean – I know I am visiting somebody else’s briar patch. I’m a bit nervous about riptides and sharks, and tend to stay close to the shore when swimming.
But… I love it. I love the sound of the water and the feeling of the sand shifting under my feet with each new wave. I scan the shore for treasures (pretty rocks or shells), and try to get to them before the next wave buries them again.
Tim enjoys the beach just well enough to humor me when I request a trip. He burns easily (being Irish and all) and stays covered up for the most part.
Squiggles had a mixed-emotion day at the beach; laughter, crying, exhilaration, and anger. We went to the shore last summer, but of course she doesn’t remember that.
She didn’t mind walking on the beach, but hated falling on it. She absolutely refused to use her hands to get herself back up.
So Tim took pity on her. She was excited about the water, but a little nervous about going near it.
She decided it was okay, and squealed with hysterical delight if when we swung her over the water or ran along the shore splashing and jumping over the waves.
We tried to help her build a sandcastle, but she was NOT on board with sitting in the sand. This photo is for Marsha, who has asked me if she ever cries:
Her attitude improved drastically when we sat her on her towel with some snacks.
Overall, a lovely day by the shore.
9 comments:
Oh, how I LOVE the shore. I shall miss it immensely. And, are you sure Squiggles is crying in that picture for Marsha? She still looks remarkably pleasant! Looks like a beautiful day.
OK, that comment up there was actually me, not Sarah. Sorry!
That bird on Squiggles swimsuit is something fiercely cute. I'm glad you didn't go and have yourself an awakening at the beach- you all look very happy.
There you go having some fun without the grandparents again.
We have a salt water beach here in Utah but I have never been to it. Something about having an inch of encrusted salt on you after you get out. I may try it out this summer if we can find some time.
What a lovely time!
Um, Laura? In that photo that you say she's crying, I think she's laughing. Either that, or she smiles while she's crying--now THAT is a talent indeed. Love the pictures. I especially love the pink flamingo swimwear!
Laura, did you make her cry, just so I would believe you? For shame!
I love, love, love the ocean and would very much like to live by it someday. However, I am with Squiggles on the sand. I'm not fond of it's texture, nor of the fact that it takes a week to remove it entirely from one's person.
p.s. Judging from the pictures, I think Tim loves the beach too. That picture of the two of you, is positively heartwarming.
Very very lovely! The beach, the sun, the people. I love Squiggles' swimsuit. Do they come in adult size?
BTW: Joe and I are moving to a 2BR unit in our complex this coming week. Once we're moved in we'd love to have y'all over for some dinner and games. We'll keep in touch.
I love, love, love the ocean. It is so fascinating. I never get enough of it (since I live in Utah)! Your beach pictures are awesome. You all look very nice and happy!
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