The beaches here in our new neck of the woods have been such a wonderful blessing for our family. Neither Rick nor I grew up near the beach, so being able to drive seven or so minutes to see the ocean is a real treat. However, one of our favourite beaches so far is Clareville Beach, which is about twenty-five minutes drive from our home.
It’s a small, cosy beach with shallow water and no waves. The beach itself backs onto a row of houses, which adds to the intimate and friendly feel of the beach. Angus and Pete can run, jump, splash and play to their hearts delight without us me worrying about their safety, and on a Friday which is when we usually go, it’s almost completely deserted. Which makes it feel like we have this beautiful beach all to ourselves. It’s as close to idyllic as a day out can get. In fact, I have been so won over that I recently bought my first swimsuit in six years!
One of the very best things about spending time together at Clareville Beach is that Rick and I actually get to relax. Yes, you heard me parents. Relax. We don’t have to worry about them getting lost, making noise, being run over by a car, being snatched away by a random stranger, falling off some play equipment from up high, or spilling drinks and food onto the ground. It is awesome. Last time we went, I even got to lie down on our beach towel at our spot in the shade for a full ten minutes while Rick had all the boys down by the water, each doing their own thing. You guys, I actually got to stare up at the sky and switch off. How often does that happen? (Never.)
As you can see, we’ve come a long way from our first family holiday with Angus (bottom left) on the South Coast when he steadfastly refused to let his feet touch the sand. It brings me so much joy to see how much he loves the beach now. Pete, our little tornado man (top right), rushes straight into the water as if he were made for splashing. He doesn’t even care when his face goes under. Methinks that swimming lessons are in order.
Our days off are just so precious, because it’s the one day when the boys get Rick’s complete, undivided attention. It’s the one day that Rick is not distracted with the never-ending list of things he needs to do for church. I just love seeing them hang out, have fun and be ‘boys’ together. I’m very blessed to have the family that I do.
All in all, we’re simply soaking up these last days of summer before the chilly season sets in.
Are you doing the same?
(p.s. I did some guest blogging over on Kristin’s lovely blog Bonbon Mini a couple of days ago. About the boys, no less. Read it here if you have a spare moment! And while you’re there, check out Kristin’s store Miniluu which is filled with beautiful, natural goodies for your little one.)
