Following early evening summer showers, the twilight coaxed me from a messy kitchen and air conditioning. I grabbed the Canon Rebel and two of the kids and we walked over to the beach.
Light changes so quickly after the sun sets. The afterglow from the sunset cast a pastel hue over the incoming tide. The air was misty from rain.
My house is a mere 1,300 feet from this beach. This is my tenth summer on this beach and my heart still does a flip-di-dip when I come across the boardwalk and it comes into full view.
Although we had to leave precious family behind when we relocated, I knew from the first that if we were coming to Jacksonville, we would live here.
No planned, gated communities for me but an organic one. One with a past, and a soul. A place where neighbors can leave their popsicle-colored beach cruisers propped against a tree while they scamper out onto the sand.
Or a place where you can take that bike for a spin on the sand, if that’s what you prefer.
A place where the public beach access is clearly marked at every block. Some with parking. Others with rinsing showers.
How I ended up here is a stroke of luck, or maybe, God’s way of showing me that my dreams did come true – one by one by one.
In Atlantic Beach’s gift shops you’ll often find signs that people buy for their homes: “If You’re Lucky Enough to Live at the Beach, You’re Lucky Enough.” And although such a sign doesn’t suit my own personal style, I do take that motto to heart.
What an idyllic community life, like stepping back in time.
I would trade my 6 steps to the pool for 1300 steps to the ocean in a heartbeat… in a warm climate, of course 😉
ok, now you made me jealous again!!! xo, mickey
Love this post. Love the notion, hope someday to put it in motion myself 🙂 One by one by one…
Absolutely beautiful!! It must feel amazing to know you are where you are "supposed" to be.
Great job, Jeannie!
xxoosink
Your photos are stunning! The color is amazing. I just love the cruiser! I have a bike shop that I visit when we go to CA. It is full of custom painted cruisers. Someday I am going to get one–not really anywhere to ride them where I live! My Mom gave me a darling card with a pink cruiser– I think I am going to frame it!!
Keep taking the pictures—they are super!
wish you were here with the kids…we need some comic relief….I love your pictures..you have a real gift…
keep on posting those pictures.
Oh by the way…I loved the message from your dad..that was just precious…Jan
i grew up on the beach in southern california. when i left for univeristy, at 18, i never wanted to return to the boring little seaside town. what i wouldn't give now!!
you pictures are beautiful and you describe my younger life, and now i am full of fond memories.
My first time here, by way of Cheeky Lotus. I love your beach photos! Reminds me I need to go more often in the evenings. I live about 30 minutes drive from the beach but it's so worth it!