The View From Here

I recently spent a few days relaxing at the beach.

And somewhere between the dunes and the ocean…

I realized something.

The beach isn’t what changed.

I did.

---

When I picture the perfect beach,

I think of peaceful joy.

The beautiful view.

The sound of the waves.

Sea birds gliding overhead.

Cool water on my feet.

---

Then reality showed up.

If getting to the beach requires hiking through the dunes…

it’s too far.

If the walk back to the restroom requires prior planning…

we’ve crossed the line from vacation to endurance event.

If cars are driving up and down the beach…

it’s too trafficky.

If I have to carry my own refreshments…

I will not be refreshed.

If it’s raining…

it’s too wet.

If it’s sunny…

it’s too hot.

If everyone around me is laughing, splashing, and having the best day ever…

it’s too loud.

And if all of those things happen on the same beach…

I’m going back to the hotel.

---

And somewhere between the ocean…

and the hotel…

I realized something.

I just love the version of the beach that comes with

a big beach umbrella,

comfortable lounge chairs,

someone wandering by every so often asking,

“Would you like another drink?”

“Can I bring you lunch?”

and absolutely no requirement that I earn the view.

---

Apparently…

my idea of the perfect beach changed

right along with me.

These days,

‘m less “beach person”…

and more “beach resort person.”

---

And honestly…

I’m okay with that.

---

After surviving cancer twice,

I’m learning that choosing the comfrotable chair

isn’t giving up.

Sometimes…

it’s simply self-care.

And I have a feeling

we could all use

a little more of that.

-Pattie

P.S. Tell me about your perfect beach day. What does it absolutely have to include?