Simple Pleasures: Sun and Sea

I don’t know what it is about the sun and sand that makes our souls feel so free, but I certainly felt it as we walked out to the ocean in Santa Cruz yesterday. It feels great, to have a tank top on, to feel the rays on my skin, to see people laughing, playing beach volleyball, kids playing in the sand. It’s a such a simple pleasure – a joy we all can share – we are free to bask in the rays on any sunny day. And if you can take some time to get to enjoy a pool, lake, river, ocean or beach, it’s worth a trip for your soul to bask in the magical joy of the sun and sea…

The Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk is one of my favorite places from when I was young — I understand that some may call it dilapidated, overpriced or out of date — but I don’t care. I love the carnival atmosphere, the sun on my skin, and the ocean as a backdrop as you make your way up and down the boardwalk.  I love the happy faces, beach volleyball games, random roller skaters, and kids all around with their ice cream and goodies.

I’ve always loved carnival games. It only takes a few to get it out of our systems.

 

It’s such an innocent, sweet age, when the simplest of rides makes kids smile.

Winner!

Loving the beach on a gorgeous day like this!

It makes my heart melt every time I see my kids embrace each other like this – not because they were told to – but simply out of joy!