Girls have fun.

I had the most wonderful priviledge, last week. I was able to take our daughter, two of her friends and my sister to the beach. From the loud giggling that radiated from the back seat, to the silence that filled the bright condo walls, as these teenagers slept through the early morning rising of the sun, I loved it. Our daughter has never had the chance to share her beach paradise before. It has become a cherished locket of childhood that holds many memories. I did not fully realize the significance until now. When my father-in-law purchased this bit of sunshine paradise, twenty years ago, I had no idea how our children would come to love the white sandy beaches, the lapping of the ocean and fried crab claws. As I watched the girls lather on the suntan lotion, I remembered in the middle of this very room, holding our daughter tightly inorder to cover her precious skin with protection, only to watch her plop down on the floor in despair as she assessed the damage I had caused. My oh my, now she is taking careful attention to promote a tan, not a burn, and encouraging her friends to do the same. As I sat by the hot tub at night, I could remember telling our daughter when she became older, I would sit in the corner and keep an eye on her as she socialized. That time has come. With my sister watching and listening in awe, I soaked in every moment of this special trip. Their bedroom was completely covered in clothes and shoes. Their bathroom had more tolietries than most drugstores. The opportunity to meet new fellows was endless and I never tired from hearing the stories. We watched the sun set across the ocean's waves. I cooked my famous cinnamon rolls for breakfast. We ate the most incredible food and finished the night with chocolate ice cream cones. I never for one moment regretted taking this trip, in fact I hope this is simply the first of many more. I am so thankful for this bit of white beach that our children have dug their toes into from two weeks of age and now I am thankful to have the chance to watch their footsteps in the sand as life changes from nap time to new guys in the hot tub and endless outfits for dinner. My, my, I am sure having fun.