Cleveland, OH

Matt has always been more of a mountain man.  The rugged, let’s-go-hardcore-hiking-in-the-heat, take a bath in the river type.  He loves being able to see for miles from the top of a mountain, taking in the trees, waterfalls, and wildlife from the top of the world. 

While I can appreciate that, I’m much more of a beach girl.  A pale wannabe islander that can hear the ocean every morning and smell the salt on the air. I love being able to see for miles and see the vastness of something that is largely speaking the same, but so, so diverse underneath.  I’m more for standing at the edge of the world.

Plus, I just think the beach is more fun and relaxing! 😉

Some of my earliest family memories involve the beach, my older sister in her Ariel swimsuit and me in a ’90’s getup (probably a spin on Minnie Mouse, I’ll have to look for photo evidence!).  Relaxing in the sun, almost being hugged by its warmth, is something that I don’t take for granted (although I don’t do well in the heat…go figure). Where else can you go to see such bright colors?  Where else can you test the waters, literally, to feed your inner risk-taker but still come out laughing and joyous?  I also love seafood, so that lends itself to visiting beaches. 😉

 I knew we would be visiting my sister in the LA area earlier in the summer, but I knew most of that trip would be focused on going upstate to visit national parks…not exactly a beach vibe (although we did get to visit the Pacific, my first time ever!).  So, when the Erickson Clan invited us to join them for a beach vacation this year, I was ecstatic!  I’ve never been to South Carolina just to hang out (usually we stop there for a bit while driving to Florida), so I’m looking forward to the types of new experiences that will bring (also applicable to sharing a house with about 15 people)!

In preparation, I’ve been doing a few small beachy things around the apartment, just to build up the hype for myself even more (and Matt hopefully is getting excited, too!).  Twice this week we’ve had a fish-themed meal, which we typically don’t do because fish can get pricey!  

I’ve also been getting some things out so we know where they are when we go through our extensive packing process, namely the 70 SPF sunscreen!  We’ll see what color I am when we come back; I’m hoping it isn’t red!  

I scrounged through my dresser and found my favorite (only) bikini that I’ve had since high school.  The last time I wore it was probably two years ago, since I didn’t need it last summer in Ireland or in the Middle East!

Also in the smelling good category is my At the Beach perfume.  It’s a small bottle, but packs a big scent punch!  When the scent came out this spring, I took one whiff and immediately felt like I was actually at a beach.  Props, Bath & Body Works!

The next things to do are pack clothes and a slew of memory cards.  It’s going to be a great week!