THE BEACH

My good friend Dave called me. He, his sister Anna and his son Kellen, visiting from Wales, were down at the beach and asked me to join them. For those of you who may not know, I am fortunate enough to live about a drive and a 4 iron from the beach. Except for leisurely strolls or sessions spent sitting on the sand and staring out to sea while pondering the true meaning of life, I don’t visit the beach too often this time of year. Contrary to the perception that because we have a few palm trees in southern California and therefore it is always warm, there are some cold stretches, at least cold by our standards.

This day was not one of them. It was near 80 degrees, nary a breath of wind, clear enough that Catalina Island, some 26 miles away, appeared reach-out-and-touch close, and San Clemente Island, some 50 miles distant was easily visible, even for old eyes. A few sail boats were searching for ripples indicating wind, a fishing boat or two, families enjoying the best of their Easter week vacation, warm sand, the smell of salt air and a good beach chair. Ahhhh the beach. It is good at any time of year in any kind of weather but today she was at her best.

We just soaked up the sun and chatted. Kellen talked of his school life in Wales, his love of soccer and his favorite team, Chelsea. Anna spoke of her upcoming “Bucket List” trip to the Masters golf tournament with her family. Dave told of his planned business trip to the panhandle of Florida, but mostly beamed with pride of his son Kellen, treasuring every minute of their time together.

Because we could not persuade the local pizza place to deliver to us on the beach, Dave left briefly and returned with piping hot Canadian bacon and pineapple, my favorite. We frittered away the afternoon. Another day in paradise.