Back to Reality

This is my happy place.

Well, it's back to reality. We returned home from a wonderful vacation and I am exhausted. It is always bittersweet to come home from this week. As my mom and I took one last walk on the beach this morning to soak it all in one last time until next year, I felt a sadness. There is a part of me that would love to stay there forever. However, there is something comforting about returning to my own house and my own bed. I also realize that if we did live at the beach, it wouldn't seem so magical and special, although I still think I'd like it a lot. For an entire week, all of my attention was on my family and the beauty of this life God has given me. Walks on the beach to collect seashells, playing in the water with Prince and Princess, feeling the baby powder sand between my toes, it was quite a grand time. I spent much of the week in dialogue with God as I renewed my spirit and rested my mind.

Last night, for our last night of vacation, Prince and Princess were allowed to stay up way past their bedtime and swim in the pool until it closed. After their late night swim, Hubby and I took them out to the beach. It was pitch black out on the beach and they have never seen the beach so still, quiet, and dark. There is something truly magical about seeing the stars twinkle on the dark beach when there is no competing light. Prince and Princess were amazed at how you can see them twinkle. I was reminded of times spent looking at the stars with my Grandaddy years ago. We usually just sat outside of our condos instead of walking on the beach, but those were good times. As we walked last night, I could almost smell his cigar and those old feelings came rushing back. As a teenager, I wished on those same stars that Hubby and I would some day marry and bring our family there. I love that I can share a part of my childhood with my children and hope that they are making memories that they may one day share with their own children. Until next year, I have pictures, seashells, and many memories to tide me over.

My happy place is happier with these two and Hubby!