The Ocean

All those years growing up going to California and not once that I can remember, did we ever take time to stop and go to the ocean.  Not for a day or even an hour just to experience it.  Not sure how we managed to do that for all those years. My parents weren't big on outdoor activities and seeing the ocean was never a top priority.  Not that the trips to California weren't great.  What kid doesn't enjoy spending part of the trips at amusement and theme parks?

Living in Texas, we had the Gulf.  Which I think was my first time seeing a body of water larger than a lake.  Although nice, the hot humid weather and brown, cloudy water didn't make much of an impression.  It just wasn't the same as all the beautiful pictures I had seen.

I think the first time to see the ocean was my first trip to San Diego over 12 years ago.  Hard to believe it took so long.  Always got close to a beach, but never stepped foot on it.

I was so anxious and excited as we drove to the beach on Coronado Island.  Just seeing the ocean as we drove over the bridge to the island, gave me chills.  That first time taking off my shoes and walking on the sandy beach of Coronado Island actually brought tears to my eyes and I cried.  I felt overwhelmed.  I've never been able to explain what standing on the shores of a beautiful beach, especially at sunset, does to me and how it makes me feel.  All my anxiety washes away.  Not a care in the world.  Standing there listening to the sounds of the waves, the smell of the sea and the feeling of sand between your toes.

Although I will admit, that once we're done and walking back to the car, my OCD kicks in and the sand on my feet drives me nuts and I need it to be off and clean my feet.  I never said my mind made any sense.

It was one of the many things that my husband and I had in common.  We found out that we both have that same urge to be near an ocean and it provided us the same feelings.  Just one more thing that makes our relationship work like it does.

Our very first day in California together was spent at the ocean for a short time. We couldn't wait to get there. Every chance we get since then and the days, months and years to come, will be driving down Pacific Coast Highway finding that new beach we have yet to explore.  An adventure yet to be tested, will probably include the dogs.  I have no idea what they would be like at a beach. It will be wonderful to see their reaction.  I hope it's filled with amazement, like it is for us.

Until then, I hope you don't mine seeing a lot more of pictures of our times on the beach.