Ever notice how easy it is to take the place that you live for granted? Never spending time enjoying the special features of your town, surrounding area or state. That is something I try very hard to avoid. I make a concerted effort to experience and appreciate all that is offered here in Little Rhody - our natural wonders, cultural offerings, excellent independently owned restaurants, museums, and sites of historical significance. And until Friday, I thought I was doing a pretty good job of what I refer to as being a "tourist in my own backyard."
On Friday, Geoff arranged for the four of us to go sailing with a business associate who owns a 36 foot sailboat, Serenissima, which means The Most Serene in Italian (which my bloggy friend LindyLou Mac, of News from Italy, can verify. I hope!). As much as I love the water and the ocean in particular, I am not big into boating. I'm more of a beach goer.
Steve, the owner of the boat, was a gracious host and allowed us to steer the boat and work the sails. We all learned quite a bit about sailing during our 4 hours on the bay and in the open ocean off of Jamestown, RI.
But it was while I was sitting on the boat relaxing and looking out over the water that I realized with shock and dismay that I not been to the beach at all this summer. Or last summer, come to think of it. This is craziness for someone who loves the beach and lives in The Ocean State, for Pete's sake! And it made me wonder why. I have no good answer to that. But I do have a solution. Every year for the past 7 years or so, it's been my tradition to go to my local town beach on the first day of school. Just me, my trusty beach chair (which has been in my car all summer), a bottle of water and a book. This year I've invited my very good friend, Margaret, to join me. She is also sending her oldest children (twins) off to college for the first time this year. I though it might be nice to share this peaceful and renewing experience with her. Besides, I think we will both need a shoulder to cry on.
Here are a few favorite photos from our trip on the Serenissima:
The Serenissima
Serenissima
Madeleine
Katie
Steve
Geoff
Me
Madeleine
Steve
Beavertail LighthouseJamestown, RI
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6 comments:
Yes Serene, extra specially so :) Your translation sounds just fine. What a lovely day you had, wish I could have been there.
Thanks for the mention so much appreciated, I have linked back on today's post on News From Italy.
Very cool! I have only been on a sailboat once and it was many, many years ago. What I always hear people talk about is how quiet they are which makes sense. Looks like it was a wonderful day.
Your sailboat adventure looks amazing! I'm jealous. I know how you feel about missing out on the beach; last summer I only went once. So, this summer, I've made an effort to try to go every weekend (never happens, but it keeps it in the front of my mind). I've been a half dozen times this summer to Narragansett, and it's been lovely! I like your tradition of going on the first day of school... might have to start doing that myself... if I can get the day off from work!
Sounds like a wonderful time, Pam! My two sons just spent a week enjoying your fine state on their grandparents' sailboat. They moor it in Stonington, CT and take the boys and their girl cousin out every summer on the Grandkids' Cruise. They spent a few days at Watch Hill, then sailed to Block Island for the rest of the week. It's the highlight of the summer for them! Glad you enjoyed your introduction to sailing.
And your plan for the first day of school sound amazing!! I wish I had a local town beach...I love the beach and the ocean. Our closest beaches are about 90 minutes away - too far for me to manage there and back on the same day. Enjoy!!
Sue
Oh, I haven't been on a boat in so long. This makes me really want to. I also haven't been near a real beach in years. Ahh...I need a vacation.
I LOVE your first day of school tradition! I want to join you! (Too bad I'm on the other side of the country, stuck in the desert!)
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