The Beach

As I sit here enjoying the cool weather, I cannot believe that I was at Virginia Beach on Monday and found it too hot!

Oh, fickle me!

Well, while I enjoy being at the beach, I don't actually enjoy swimming in the ocean.  At least not the ocean water on the coast of the United States.  When I was in Bermuda, the beach water was very inviting.  I could see my feet when I looked down in waist deep water.  That's my kind of beach!  Nevertheless, I don't like the feel of salt drying on my skin.  It's like being in an outfit that is shrinking while you wear it.

I also have - have always had, in fact -- an issue with body image.  Even in my very thin days I felt fat in a bathing suit.  Now that I am considerably larger, the idea of walking down the sandy stretch just seems horrifying.

Ultimately, the beach scene is not necessarily for me.  Still, I yearn for the cash to rent a place on the Outer Banks of North Carolina.  A place with beach access AND a pool.  And all the family with me -- kids, brothers, wives, nephews, parents.

As I look at the cool weather outside, I am thinking of the beach and how it invites relaxation.