Ocean Ridge, Florida, Summer 2007

Arriving our first afternoon, we quickly unloaded our luggage at Dennis and Patti's (in-laws) home in Ocean Ridge, Florida, with hopes of getting to beach as fast as possible. First, we took a moment to take in the beauty of the ocean just outside their patio door. Overlooking the South Atlantic from Dennis and Patti's apartment (seventh floor) balcony is breathtaking. They are just a few yards from the shoreline. The ocean and sky are seamless with one ending and another beginning; with only an occasional boat bobbing up and down in the distance to mark the horizon. As the waves gently lapped upon the beach serenading me, I closed my eyes, thinking it was good to see an old friend once again. I had been to see the Atlantic once before, in Connecticut. But, this was Florida! I didn't know it yet, but by the time our trip was over, Ocean Ridge and all its surroundings, would capture my heart forever.

At home, in Minnesota, there are beautiful sunrises in the forests and on the lakeshores. Yet, nothing compares to watching the sun as it slips up over a thin line between the ocean and sky, bathing everything in a warm, orange glow. The sand is fine and seashells abound in every color you can imagine. While walking along the beach, we had to be mindful of little yellow flags posted every few feet. Below these flags, new life stirred on the beach. You see, we got there in time for a new turtle hatch. Everyday, by mid-morning, Crows, Ospreys, Gulls and Terns make their daily migration up and down the coast past the apartment complex. While sunning one afternoon, my wife, daughter, and granddaughter were surprised by a curious Osprey who decided to float on a thermal current for a few moments, inches from the balcony, cocking its head from side to side watching my family. For them, it was better than visiting any zoo back home.