Sunset at Pier 60

 June 3 was such a power-day, we took the morning of June 4 off to putz around the condo. The kids sat on the patio and read to each other and played let's pretend and were just generally adorable. The adults were like huge slow wounded walruses next to them, tired and sore. But we rallied and got out the door in time for the tinies to nap their way to Clearwater Beach!

And I believe everything that's ever been told me about the virtues of the Gulf of Mexico. It IS perfect.

White sand like powdered sugar. Gentle waves. Water spa-warm. Paradise, basically.

She came close to a sunburn, but we avoided it that day too!

I love how passive a parent you can be with all this soft sandy SPACE.

 Adele decided the time was right for a little yoga:

 We lingered until just past sunset. They have this festival every night that'd I'd been anticipating for months, see.

Yeah, I agree, Miles was getting a bit fresh here. 

 We ate beachy Americana food and ice cream, strolled the length of the pier and admired the performers, shops and artists. At the end of the pier there was nothing left but to watch the sun dip the rest of the way into the Gulf.

 I don't know when the last time was that I actually just watched the sun set. Not just admired the clouds for a moment, but actually watched the last rays disappear. In my defense, it's usually not visible in the Appalachian foothills. Still, it is a highly spiritual experience just to stop and acknowledge: this day is past. We have done with it what we could, and now we rest. It's impossible not to form some sort of prayer as the sun disappears. Something like, well, I did my best. Please let it be enough.

And, thank you.

 All three Anne LaMott prayers in one, you see? Help, thanks,

 ..and wow.

Pointing out an old-timey ship. 

Florida was everything we'd hoped it would be!