Thoughts at the Beach

Today was wonderful. Spending time at the beach always renews my spirit. The water was warm but still refreshing. The waves were huge. I was almost afraid a few times but that didn't stop me from spending most of the day in the water. I love the energy. So does my grandson James who was also in the water all day. 
As I swam, I thought about how nice it would be to have my friends with me enjoying the beach. I haven't seen them much lately and I miss them. We have such a great group of loving women who support each other in our endeavors and in life.
After supper I went for a walk on the beach. The beach was pretty empty and I was able to really connect with all that was around me. 
I saw the sandpipers I had not seen in quite sometime. I watched as they ran towards the water as the tide went out only to run back up the shore as the waves rolled in. I always loved watching them as a child. So funny how they run towards something only to run away from it when it gets here. 
I used to think all sea gulls were the same but have realized since becoming a bit of a bird watcher, that there are many types of gulls. There was a huge one standing at the edge of the water just looking out in the distance. I wonder what he was thinking.
I know what was going through my mind. I spent all of my summers here growing up. I had very close friends who I loved dearly. I have wonderful memories of my time in Magnolia. 
I feel sad sometimes that I don't see many of my old friends  when I am in town but I have come to realize that life goes on and people change. Sometimes I think I have changed so much from that nutty teenager and some things have changed, but I am still me inside.
I am very thankful for the people who have come and gone in my life and the lessons I have learned from them but I am especially grateful to my friends who have stayed and still love and accept me even with my imperfections and quirks. Love and acceptance, the key to life. How wonderful this world would be if everyone could just do it. Blessings Anne