You wake up on a weekday, a day off from work and realize that the weather outside is hot and summer-like. The one idea that comes to your mind is most likely a beach day. You grab your phone and text your friends and relatives to see who else is available to hit up the beach. This is one of the most common scenarios among myself and those around me. The beach is a place to kick back, grab some vitamin D and feel accomplished that life has been great. Some of my favorite spots include: Point Pleasant, Bradley Beach, Wildwood and beaches in Italy near my mother's hometown.
Once I know that I am going to the beach, I get excited to pick out my favorite bathing suit to wear along with a matching romper or outfit. Packing for the beach is always fun as well because it just makes the process of actually going even more exciting and worthwhile. Instead of buying lunch, I typically make a sandwich from home and pack fruit, snacks and ice cold water bottles. The only thing to be aware of is a pigeon that might take a glance at you while you consume your lunch.
The car ride there is always the best of times, listening to new summer jams on the radio, hearing about crazy news, as well as catching up with friends and family with an hour's worth of funny stories and memories. As many know, driving in New Jersey is always fun — having a car next to you think it's OK to move into your lane without putting the blinker on or tailgating you until they think it's OK for them to back off. The best thing to do is have patience and honk only when necessary.
Once I step foot on the beach, my friends/family and I pick the best spot to spread out our things. Then I begin to apply sun tan lotion. Receiving vitamin D is a great feeling, but protecting my body from the sun's strong rays is just as important. My favorite part of going to the beach is the ocean, just looking at how the waves crash and the fresh smell of sea salt. I am one of those people who will be seen in the water all the time. The sea salt is great for my skin and for any cuts or wounds.
Whether it is listening to music, playing a card game or playing a game in the sand, it is always worthwhile if I am with friends or family. I like the company and would never imagine going alone. Going to the beach has been common for me throughout the years and for those around me. Being in Jersey, we are able to dedicate about four months out of the year to enjoying this activity in our lives. I live to enjoy every moment of it with great people.
