Sand in my shorts

We don't do vacations. It's simply not in our current financial plan (thanks, Dave!). But now and then, we need to get away. We need to breathe a little different air and tread some new roads. I crave adventure, plain and simple.

Yesterday, we took a day trip to the dunes. We ambitiously took on the longest hiking trail. It was a tough one. The cicada's cheered us on as we traversed the dunes from the beach to the woods and back again. Believe me, I did need some cheering at times.

In the open air and secluded trails, Kb and I were able to talk through a few thorny topics. It was just what we needed. We were only interrupted by the moments that I was digging deep and gasping for air.

We aren't exactly beach people, but after three hours of hiking through hilly sand, it felt wonderful to collapse on the beach and splash around in the cool water.

I soaked up every moment of sunshine, and achieved some closure to the summer. It's been a good season. I made new improvements in the horse show world, started grad school, and expended emotional energy toward peace and conflict resolution.

Now I'm ready. Bring on the chowder and football, rakes and hoodies. Bring on fall.