As I write this, I can hear waves as the roll onto shore, I can see pristine sand and blue ocean, and my skin is sticky from salty air and sand. Up until a few years ago, I didn't think I cared about the beach. Then, we got invited to a beach wedding and for the first time in a number of years, I visited the beach. This is my third time back since that wedding. I love the beach.

Joseph and I, along with his brother's family have ventured down to Daytona Beach for the week. (Saturday to next Sunday to be exact) My porcelain pale skin is already freckling up and trying to take on a pink hue, which is why I'm up in the condo, taking a break from the sun and the beach.

There is something instantly calming about coming to the beach. I'm not sure if it is just the vacation itself or if the endless blue ocean rolling in and out has something to do with it, but I do know, I could be perfectly happy "toes in the water, ass in the sand". Zac Brown may not be my favorite band, but they got that part right.

For the most part our vacation is totally unplanned, but there are a few things we must do while we are here. One day for lunch this week we will be eating at Aunt Catfish on the River with their great lemonade and awesome cinnamon rolls. A trip to Crabby Joes is necessary so we can eat a delicious meal on the pier while we watch the tide roll in. Then it is a short drive from the condo to the lighthouse to climb it. That will be fun. And, I know Joe really wants to visit the Daytona Beach pier, so if it is open (It was closed for rennovations last time), we will be going for a visit.