and now for the good in it

so, yesterday i wrote about why this year's beach vacation trip was my least favorite so far. but i think i should also go over some of the highlights of the trip to be fair... since i did still enjoy myself.

one of the highlights was waking up early in the morning and witnessing the sun rise over the ocean...
this was a double highlight. because, while many people would have to make a concerted effort to wake up early enough to witness the sun rise, i naturally am an early riser.

another highlight was running on the promenade early in the morning...
it's peaceful and refreshing with the morning breeze hitting your face as the sun is still coming up over the horizon.

another highlight was eating whatever i wanted, whenever i wanted and however much of it i wanted...
i love food on vacation. i ate shrimp, crab, lobster, sandwiches, chips, ice cream and candy as if none of it would ever end up on my hips or butt.

another highlight was going to bed no matter how early it was...
we never really do anything that involves being out all night when we go on this family vacation. usually by 8:30 we are winding down the day and getting sleepy and then we all go to bed guilt-free.

another highlight was walking on the beach while listening to pink floyd's wish you were here album...
with the music at just the right volume, i could still here the waves hitting the beach; crashing and rolling back out to sea... i recall this being one of my absolute favorite moments while on vacation. i felt gloriously blissful. my mind was free and clear of all the trivial concerns and unnecessary stresses that work and life present me on a daily basis. i could have walked for miles on end that morning. i wish for everyone to have at least one chance in their lives to feel as blissful as i did then.

and then there are the obvious highlights; like being at the beach in a house that was right on the beach with a wonderful view of the beach...

..........jfk...........