The Gulf Coast

Last Saturday we made our first trip ever to Florida and the Gulf coast! It is only 2 1/2 hours away. I have to admit I am spoiled and most familiar with the Hawaiian beaches. So when I saw these beaches from the road I was a little disappointed about there being no trees and much more people than I was used to. But after the nightmare to find parking and finally making our way to the sand, I fell in love! The sand is soft and a gorgeous white. The water is beautifully clear and a good temperature. And the sun, ah, the sun! It has been a year since I have spent a day in the sun and I had forgotten how wonderful it feels. No wonder us humans flock to beaches for relaxation. And speaking of flocking, the number of people proved an unfounded concern as everyone had more than enough space to enjoy their families, their books, and the sun. The beach is a family friendly one so there was no worrying about cigarette smoke or loud and obnoxious beach goers. And on top of everything, the weather was perfect: not a cloud in the sky and a nice constant cool wind to keep everyone's temperatures just right.

At first we forgot our camera in the car but I recognized the regret I'd have later and went all the way back to fetch it. We're so glad we did.
Remember when Cameron was a tiny baby and loved the sand and water?
Well, he still loves it and this time we didn't have to stop as many attempts to eat sand or stop face plants into it.Cameron tends to be fearless when it comes to water. His first thing was to run straight into the surf up to his waist where he got a good laugh about the waves slapping against him. Next on his list was to survey the scene. He spent the next half hour running here and there, with us following, poking his head into other beach goers' camps and pausing to play with other kids' toys. This picture is him thinking he's just one of the boys. Tyler said he was talking it up with these guys.
So why didn't we have toys for him, you ask? Well, we did have a sand car but forgot it and other than that the idea never occurred to us. Luckily I found an abandoned little yellow shovel and presented it to him. He spent the remaining hours digging and digging.
What a relaxing day! Even with Cameron! I am officially marking Florida beaches as a desirable vacation location in my book. We will be going back for sure. If anyone wants to come visit us we will take them too!