Between Athena and I, I don’t know who is more obsessed with the beach. We think about it all the time. It’s the number one place that comes to mind when we think about family, peacefulness, and happiness. I could spend an entire day at the beach doing absolutely nothing and I would still leave feeling fulfilled. It was calling our name so we made the 3.5 hour journey to Kiawah Island Golf Resort in South Carolina for a weekend of beach heaven.
We opened the balcony doors and stepped out side at 9 am. The beach was perfection already. A few people were enjoying a morning walk along the shore as the soft waves rolled in. It was a cool morning, but that’s why jackets were invented.
Athena, Darren, and I got dressed in the warmest clothes we brought with us and made our way to the beach. Athena’s face lit up when her feet touched the sand. It was cold and damp but our hearts were warm.
By mid-morning, the temperatures had risen to a comfortable level. We danced and sang summer tunes and we were able to live in the moment. Work, computers, and even cell phones were non-existent. Only the camera was from this earthly world, everything else was a dream.
We go to the beach not to get away from life but to live it more fully, which is also why I have a bucket list.
Share this post and live in the now with us. What is your happy place?
Bucket List Publications 
What a great day to play together; building wonderful memories together!
LikeLike
Although Athena may not remember these days, I’m sure our relationship will continue to grow stronger because of them 🙂
LikeLike
I believe, that although the memories for our children may not belong to the conscious mind, they do build a deep well of happiness within. So the more happy body memories you create as your daughter grows up – the happier she will be inside. That’s my belief from experience anyway 🙂
LikeLike
I couldn’t agree more. I often get asked why I travel with Athena now, even though she won’t remember, but I see the value in it and we’re having a great time along the way 🙂
LikeLike
Love, love, love Kiawah.
LikeLike
It was my first time there but it won’t be my last. Are you from the area? Have you stayed at the resort?
LikeLike
No, I’m from lLoveland, OH (Cincinnati area). We have stayed at The Sanctuary many times, as well as renting various condos. There is nothing quite like being pampered at the resort. We’ve also stayed in Charleston. It’s a totally different experience. There is so much history there, as well as the market, the bay, great restaurants. The architecture is amazing. Are you from the area?
LikeLike
I live in North Carolina now but we’re planning to move back to California. I visited Charleston last year and truly enjoyed the stay. It’s such a unique city.
Do you travel to other parts of the country too?
LikeLike
Yes, we love Washington DC and go whenever we can. At various times two of our sons have been stationed there (officers in the Coast Guard). Our oldest son is now out of the CG and living in Boston with his family. We love Maui, San Fran, Scottsdale, Vegas, and on and on. I love northern Michigan.
LikeLike
any beach is very inspiring
LikeLike
These are great pics!. I think south Carolina has some of the nicest beaches I have been to.
LikeLike
Have you been to Hilton Head? We hear that is beautiful as well. This beach at Kiawah Island was endless and beautiful. The waves were great for families as well. 🙂
LikeLike
I have once for a convention years back. It was nice It was a little commercial for my tastes though. As far as traveling alone I prefer laid back and quite. I think Hilton Head is a great spot for families however.
LikeLike
I didn’t hear that Hilton Head was commercial. I’m glad to hear from someone who has been there. Thanks for sharing 🙂
LikeLike
Your welcome. Some may not see it as commercial but I’m not a fan of seeing high rise hotels and condos when I go for a nice walk on the beach or a swim….might be me just being anti social lol
LikeLike
I’m envious of the nice warm time on the beach!
LikeLike
What was the temperature this weekend where you live?
LikeLike
Down to -1 C. overnight, and up to +6 C. daytime high. Not extreme, but far from beach temps.
LikeLike
Is she the cutest child ever?! Oh my goodness what a lovely weekend making memories on the beach.
LikeLike
Thank you! I think she is 🙂
I hope your weekend was equally as great.
LikeLike
Such beautiful memories you’ve captured!
LikeLike
Beautiful. And such a pretty girl. I can see she is following in your footprints in the beach love. Kiawah is a beautiful place (known only by photos).
LikeLike
Wonderful weekend for all of you, I will say. I love the beach in same way. Just to walk at the beach gives fresh air in mind and soul. Thanks for sharing.
Irene
LikeLike
That’s exactly it, Irene. Great for the mind and soul 🙂
I hope you had a great weekend too. Anything special?
LikeLike
Thank you. My weekend was very special in the way, that I used a half day Friday at the emergency, caused my boyfriend should cut firewood and cuttet his own leg too and Saturday my dog became hurt at our walk in the morning, so veterinary hospital with him. I feel very lucky to have had a peaceful Sunday. Both are much better now 😉
LikeLike
I’m glad to hear they are ok! Did either require serious medial attention? Stitches for your boyfriend? I hope the rest of your week is like Sunday 🙂
LikeLike
Yes, they did. My boyfriend had stitches, antibiotica and other medications. Odin got painkillers after the doctor helped him with his mouth.
I wish you a wonderful week.
LikeLike
I believe we’re drawn to beaches because, as humans we rely so much upon water. The world’s oceans, seas and rivers gave us life in the form of food and helped us to explore and build civilizations. Without that we simply could not exist. It’s why island or beachfront societies almost always seem to feel at peace. The sound of ocean waves can soothe even the most troubled mind. Besides, we’re 75% water and can swim before we can walk!
LikeLike
I never feel stressed when I’m at the beach. I hope your weekend was equally relaxing. Did you enjoy?
LikeLike
I had so much fun with my three when they were little at the beach. You are making memories that all of you will treasure. Soooo cute!
LikeLike
Thanks Deborah. How old are your children now? Boys? Girls?
LikeLike
Love the pictures but especially the ones with you and Athena.
LikeLike
I could listen to the waves all day long, I am like you and find so much peace while there. Unfortunately, I do not live anywhere near the ocean, but just thinking of it can bring me to my happy place. BTW, her toothy grin is precious! Treasure these young years!
LikeLike
I feel the same way about the beach; that’s what prompted us to move back to California. Our house is currently on the market.
LikeLike
I feel fortunate that I grew up close to the ocean and have always lived within a short distance. Just knowing I can get down there whenever I want is comforting. Lucky Athena that she gets to feel the sand on her toes.
LikeLike
I could always see the ocean from my front door so to live a few hours away is difficult. We’re planning on moving back to California to be close to the ocean again. Do you like swimming or more just relaxing on the beach?
LikeLike
My happy place is also by the sea, listening to the waves, and preferably with few (or ideally no) other people around. I grew up inland so have no idea where this love came from, but when I moved out of my parent’s home, I moved to the coast coincidently and now I hate being too far away from it!
LikeLike
My happy place is just being outside…whether that’s running on the road or trail, skiing, snow shoeing or relaxing at the beach. As a family, my happy place would be the beach. As an individual it would either be on a soccer field or running anywhere.
LikeLike
I’m glad you find that regularly 🙂
LikeLike
Love this so much! Thank you for sharing! 🙂
LikeLike
The beach is the place for me, too, any beach. Anywhere. And the times that I spent with my young children on the beach are memories that I will always cherish. Athena is lucky, and so are you!
LikeLike
My wife and ,I and our dog are heading for Destin Florida on wednesday. Indiana is cold right now. You have made us more excited about our long planned beach trip.
Thanks much
LikeLike
Lovely pictures, thank you.
LikeLike
Looks like a blast!
LikeLike
Love the picture.. she is getting so big.. hope all is well. God Bless
LikeLike
I wish a happy winter for all your family and friends.
LikeLike
Happy holidays for all your family and friends! You got nice pictures, by the way
LikeLike
Aww.. This post brought a smile to me. 🙂 I love spending time at the beach too especially when it’s not crowded.
LikeLike
the beach is in my blood. or vice versa. whatever. awesome photos.
LikeLike
Great pictures and post!
LikeLike
Nice post! I think I follow your blog as much for what you write as to watch the little one growing up (my kids are grown up and away, and I miss their toddler days) 🙂 I noticed, Baby’s got lots of teeth now 🙂
LikeLike
Thank you! She is growing quickly, right 🙂
I can now see why people continue to have more and more children. The time goes by so quickly and the next thing you know, they are talking to you like they are adults. She started saying, “You’re funny” when we do something to make her smile and it warms my heart. I’m in a constant state of happiness when she’s around.
How old are your children now?
LikeLike
Lovely photos of the beach, a breath of much-needed fresh air, especially during the cold and dark Alaska winter. My favorite place? Lost Lake Trail in Seward, AK. Most beautiful trail in the world.
LikeLike
I haven’t been there. I’ll have to add it to the list. When is the best time to visit?
LikeLike
Beautiful pics.
LikeLike
I love the beach, any beach – as long as you can escape from the crowds, the noise of the cars and live in the sounds of the ocean for just a short while! 🙂
LikeLike
Enjoying ones life and family is what’s it’s all about, don’t let life slip away with “I should have…..”
LikeLike
That’s our philosophy on everything. We live each day to the fullest. 🙂
LikeLike
Me, too. Living on a beach just makes me happy. It’s never the same; always beautiful, especially when moody.
LikeLike
On the road!
LikeLike
On the road, of course!
LikeLike
This was so sweet! Hope to see you at our beach one day, too! 🙂
LikeLike
I agree. Nothing is as great as a day at the beach. Lucky three of you. Love Athena’s toothy grin.
LikeLike
I hear that place and golf course are incredible!
LikeLike
Some of the best golf in the world. Too bad I’m not a better golfer; I’ve been to a few amazing golf locations lately.
Do you golf?
LikeLike
I do. Not as much as I would like to, but I do. Definitely start practicing a bit more with all the spots you land! Incredible to see how you have changed your path over the last couple of years, keep it up!
LikeLike
You stole my happy place -_- but I’m happy to share the more the merrier right?
LikeLike
Lovely beach! Your young one is getting bigger.
LikeLike
I may not like the beach, but it does make for some great pics.
Your daughter is so darling; she radiates happiness.
LikeLike