I love the seaside. Any seaside. But British beaches are my favourite and any time of year. From grey and cold days to beautiful and warm sunshine. The British beach brings me so much comfort.
When I get to the beach the first thing I do is find a pebble, run towards the ocean and throw it as hard as I can into the sea. It often doesn’t go particularly far, but the noise the pebble makes hitting the water never fails to bring a grin to my face.
I may be among the minority who prefer a pebbly beach over sand. That childlike glow that takes over when walking along and selecting any pebbles or shells that catch my eye, shoulders hunched and focused. It’s joyous. The different colours, textures, patterns, shapes, all feels so personal and special.
I love watching all the people on the beach. Even when it’s cold, wet and miserable you will find people on the beach. Layers on, hoods up, warm drinks in hand. Or even in mild weather, people huddled together, sitting on the beach with wind breakers and packed lunch, determined to enjoy their time on the beach.
My dog especially loves the beach, he’s not so fond of the pebbles, but he always gets the zoomies on sand. Flicking it everywhere. It always brings a smile to my face.
For me the ocean looks best when the sun catches it, so it sparkles and shines. Glistening in the warm rays. It looks so inviting and magical
The noise of the ocean instantly calms my soul. I feel connected to the place that I am in, like all outside noise floats away. When staring out at the horizon I always feel small, unable to really comprehend the vastness and depth of the sea. Nor what is contains. All those wonderful animals, living their lives, in that vastness. It’s humbling.
I'm reminded of that line from Moana about the light on the sea calling out to you. I really do feel that pull in my soul.
Perhaps it’s because being on a beach brings out the child in me. That childlike curiosity, sense of wonder and creativity. It fills me with a sense of freedom. I allow myself to play.
