A Trip to the Ocean with Mom

The sun rose exposing a clear, sunny day although my approach to the Washington coastline blurred the sunlight. By the time my Subaru turned through the narrow stone walls, proclaiming "Welcome to Ocean Shores", it was clear that this day at the ocean would be shrouded in cloud-diffused light. The light ocean breeze brought salt-infused air to my nostrils, that I willingly breathed deeply into my lungs.

Weather-bleached saltbox houses, sea grasses, dunes, and squealing gulls are the standard in this beach community. During the week I am struck by the lack of thronging tourists. The worst of the tourists are us. Driving along the coastline, looking for public beach access in search of photogenic vantage points. We were rewarded.

The discovery of the day had to be the new and picturesque New England-style community, Seabrook, just south of Pacific Beach. It was a treasure trove of photographic opportunity and we (my mother and I) meandered, stopping at will to take snapshots. Other noteworthy discoveries were a fabulous raspberry mocha at the Pacific Beach Conference Center as well as juicy burgers and tasty fries at the Falcon's Nest.

Rhythmic waves pounded the coastline outside our ocean-view studio condo as we listened to Stephen Coonts', Deep Black: Sea of Terror audiobook and warmed ourselves in front of the gas fireplace. A light snack of a variety of cheeses on whole grain crackers rounded out a full day of tourist heaven.