Lots of First at the Pacific Ocean

I’m amazed at how much I find water fascinating and yet I am terrified of it and everything in it. My imagination runs wild with all kinds of things that I could step on, kick, encounter etc. I have been embracing the thalassophobia and enjoying the views and smells instead.

The Pacific Ocean, at least, for where we were, is quite chilly. Bring a sweater! But it was very cool as I was able to cross several things off the list of new experiences today.

Drove a vehicle on the Beach – Okay – so technically I didn’t drive it. Amaia and Don did. But, I was there! I’ve only ever seen this happen in movies. I’m expanding my horizons damnit! Its amazing what you think only happens in movies and to others is just normal everyday living.

Seen a living Sand dollar – Amaia had been searching for a sand dollar that wasn’t broken. The beach was full of decimated crab and sand dollar. She had found this one and when she was showing me it kept glistening oddly. I realized it was alive and that its little feet/feelers were moving. Never thought I’d ever see a living sand dollar, and while it wasn’t on the intentional list, I will absolutely take this as a win. The sand dollar was not harmed and they were placed back in the water where she had found it.

Seen ‘Wild’ Crab (Albeit dead, they were still from the wilds of the ocean, lol )- This was pretty wild. The size of crab were crazy and they were all over the place. My husband is no small man and this crab looks huge even in his hands.

Seen Horse Back Riders on the Beach – I’ve had a dream of riding a horse on the beach for years. It seems like this is now something that is possible, though, not sure I’d want to do a “Group” ride. I have some weight to lose first, regardless, as I cant see putting my hefty self on some poor horses back. Gallop down the beach and maybe kick up some water! Horse back riding in general just sounds amazing. For me, Not sure about the horse. I can’t imagine they enjoy being a vehicle for humans.

Made a drift wood sand turtle – When I was a kid we made a snow turtle in our back yard. We dug out the shapes on the back and everything. Somewhere – there is a picture of it. I’m just not sure where. I’ve seen others make driftwood art and thought it would be neat to do something with the many pieces of driftwood we found on the beach. I am not in the best shape. (round is a shape, I know) so I petered out a bit but, we gave it a shot!