beach

Here Today and Gone Tomorrow 

Farther up the bay past the mound of black lava rock, a strange object came into view, undoubtedly washed ashore overnight. Debris of some sort lay flanked on the sand left behind by high tide. Its size resembled a small boat, but was shaped more like the curve of a single engine plane, except it had two grooved pipes protruding from it. Small, grayish-white crustaceans or barnacles of various sizes, as well as swarms of flying gnats, added to the mystery that sent our minds spinning with sinister tales of Barnacle Bill. A cloudy dense jellyfish, looking like a pile of goo with a lingering odor as though it had rotted days ago, still clung to the rim of the debris further substantiating our ideas of a watery grave. What was the untold story? Without revelation, during the night the sea slipped in, hoisted the plank upon a wave, and ferried this mysterious object back out into open waters. Here today and gone tomorrow. 

Sipping Tiki Cocktails 

“I see you two are working on your tan.” The Slovakian accent came from over our shoulders as we were walking hand in hand across the muted grey slate patio at the beach resort. We turned in unison to be cheerfully greeted with open smiles by Andrea and her mother. Regaining our composure from the aftershock of being recognized from behind took a split second before we settled into charming introductions and comfortable conversation.   (Andrea and her husband are the discerning owners of our luxury condo, residing above us on the second and third floors as their own year-round permanent residence.)

Although Andrea’s mother (Matka) spoke no English, we discovered she was visiting her daughter for the winter months to escape from the cold, snow, and harsh weather of her native homeland. The wrinkles on her eyes were unique and lightly creased as if they were made for her. In unfeigned fashion, her universal smile was as refreshing as a couple of Mai Tai tiki cocktails sipped poolside. She went on to point to her right forearm while Andrea translated her message: “Matka was working on her tan as well.” It just goes to show you, the inner child in all of us is willing to leave our cares and winter coats behind to head for a paradise of luminous sand, sparkling blue water that stays summer warm, and golden rays of sunshine. 

This Old Man of the Sea

The slender European stood sentinel at the water’s edge one foot barely touching the base of a black lava boulder, the other steadying himself against the shifting sand. Wave after wave broke ashore turning soothing colors of turquoise, aqua and finally sea foam green. His short red swimming trunks were marked with a tiny striped flag, no doubt proclaiming pride of his native homeland. As he raised his hand to shield his timeworn eyes from the reflecting sun, he squinted at the horizon. Following his gaze, I saw a tiny silver-haired pinhead bobbing up and down on each incoming wave. This Old Man of the Sea who radiated wisdom and experience stood there protectively keeping watch on his cherished partner, the love of his life, as she slowly and methodically swam toward him. 

King of the Island

A speckled rooster crowed as he strutted around the beach chairs with head held high acting as though he were “King of the Island” and we were all expected to clap our hands in applause at being in the mere presence of him. Slowly and methodically a hunchback wiry old man with a weather-beaten brow sauntered toward the cedar shelter, his gait slow, wearing nautical swim trunks. A full-face snorkeling mask was dangling loosely around his neck. Each step reminded him of how he had taken his vitality and physical strength for granted only a few years ago. The crashing waves of high tide seemed more of a challenge this morning than he initially thought. 

La Jolla Shores Park is Home to Sea Lions in San Diego, California 

La Jolla Shores Park is Home to Sea Lions in San Diego, California! Among the rock formations, cave crevices, crashing waves, and sandy beachfront lies a hidden cove where wild sea lions congregate and claim the area as their own. This seal sanctuary gives passersby the opportunity to step gingerly on sandstone cliffs to get a closer look at the colony of marine mammals at rest and at play. Watch them safely from above or bravely head down to the ocean’s edge where snapshots can be taken effortlessly. After all, these sea lions enjoy the sun, wind, water, and company of seagulls just as Nature intended. When you follow the scenic walkway along the shoreline, expect to see pelicans in flight, body surfers, scuba divers, and snorkelers. Not far from Shell Beach, against a concrete barrier, the tide pools fill La Jolla Children’s Pool which is another gorgeous spot to marvel at breathtaking sunsets and unpredictable sea life. Although it’s a temptation to gain proximity, stay a safe distance away and keep the interactions to a minimum. These creatures are, after all, in their natural habitat. It is best to pay attention to the bark or growl warning when invading their space. Remember, a picture is worth a thousand words. 

Some Like it Hot

Some Like It Hot!  The Hotel del Coronado, a famous resort on the island of Coronado, greets visitors with its iconic red turrets sitting high above the sea. Whether you stroll along the winding boardwalk where sand meets wave or pause in the shade of the expansive veranda for a sip of lemonade, time seems to stand still. And then it begins; that feeling of nostalgia when legendary film stars like Marilyn Monroe created waves of excitement. As though hypnotic, the air fills with wonderment and awe.