I arrive once again to my happy place. A place that I call my own. Up very early. Drive down. Park the car and walk slowly out. All by myself. With no one in toe. Just me. And that’s the way I like it.
I walk down the pathway.
Ah, here you are again! Good morning to you. Take a big deep breath. Open my arms up wide and be in the moment.
The sun rays are peering down. The water is a little still and gently pottering away. No splashing. Just a little swaying back and forth. They don’t have to work too hard today. 
The beach boxes are glistening in all their glory. Each facade sharing a story of the family that behold them. Bold bright colours. Something resembling a little history, a point, a passion, a favourite colour perhaps? No one is here yet. So there is no one to ask. 
As I walk, there is life! Those up early like me. Braving the cold sharp waters to swim, move their body and feel refreshed and incredibly alive. I really do wonder how they jump in sometimes? It would have to feel very good. 
The shore line is clean today. It always is at this time in the morning. Lovely to walk on. The green sea weed is glistening in the sun. A life form so precious to our eco system. 
The city sky line is a perfect back drop to be met by a lovely lady walking her dog. Her bright orange hair gently nestled in on each shoulder. Stick in one hand. Ball in the other. “Good morning” she says to me. “What a stunning morning” I say to her. We smile and keep going. Continuing to want our solitude.
Next stop. The pier. It looks empty. But no. It was alive many hours ago. About 4am to be exact. 
Fisherman arriving early to try their luck at a good catch.
‘Have you had any luck today?’ I ask. ‘No, not yet – and I have been here since 4am’ he replies.
It is now 7am. 
Those brave swimmers are here too. They swim in a pack. A little community. Safety. Companionship. Support. Exercise. I still don’t know how they jump in. It must feel good. 
Their bright coloured bathers and swimming caps are a sight to behold. Each, I suspect, resembling a little part of their personality. Just like those beach boxes. 
The boats are lined up like soldiers. No one is allowed to move unless their captain arrives. One must be very patient.
Back on the beach path now. Runners, cyclists, walkers. It must feel good. 
Houses. Prime position. The ultimate view. I wonder if they are awake yet? Or lying in bed? Reading a book perhaps? Having a cup of coffee? Or just pottering around. 
And the first signs of spring lining the pathway. It is looking at me. ‘Good morning’ I say. 
It is time to go home now.
I feel happy. I feel rested. My body feels warm. And, my mind is at peace.
Until next time.
Around Silvia’s Table 