For the past five years we have been making an annual trek to Destin, Florida. Sweet members of our family have graciously invited us each year to join them in this idyllic location of the globe. Except as a child, when I throughly enjoyed swimming at our local ” swimming hole” (Pounds Hollow), I have spent the preponderance of my adult life in air conditioned comfort. I have admired those brave souls that love beach life…but have not until recently been an active participant. That began to transform in the late spring of 2011 when I encountered the cool white sands and emerald green water of the Gulf of Mexico at Destin. There is a peaceful essence associated with the sand and surf of this now highly sought out location. I have noticed a subtle spell engulfs me upon my arrival each year. One of the signs of the coming of the magic is less worry, more smiling, and more reading, under the expertly placed umbrellas and chase lounges strategically located by the proficient, friendly staff.
As you lounge in shaded comfort and gaze upon the endless emerald sea you cannot help but reflect on the enormity of God’s creation and your good fortune to be a part of it. Problems that seemed immense suddenly appear in their proper perspective. You know there is a reason we humans seek to live near water…it’s therapeutic properties are infinite.
As you can see sometimes it was a little stormy…but that was no problem as it only added to the mystery.
The Happy Traveler 
Water, yes – soothing and making you feel how small you are in this world. I agree with you.
I am mesmerized by water.
The water is certainly a beautiful colour.
It has an ethereal quality.
Nice pictures. The gulf side is awesome. The trip to Carabel is beautiful. I’ve been abducted by St Pete’s Beach fit several years now.
Thank you. The gulf is captivating! Where is Carabel?
Carabel is the cove that opens to the North. It’s east of Apalachicola. The Wether Channel goes there if a hurricane is forecasted to run up the Gulf side of Florida
Thanks. I will check it out the next time that I am there.
There was a older bar on the pier looking like it should be falling apart. It has great seafood.
We love Destin. Love your photos!
Thank you Mary. Destin is one of our favorite places!
Gorgeous pics
Thank you very much!😀
Thanks for the visit and the likes and follow.
My pleasure. I am looking forward to more of your blogs.😀
Thanks
Thank you for stopping by mine to read Willie’s story. Looks like a great trip you all had there 🙂
I enjoyed Willie’s story very much! 😀
The linkto my post this week is
Wonderful storm clouds in those black-and-whites.
Thank you so much! They were extraordinary.😀
I know just what you mean. My wife and I enjoy Charleston S.C. like that. We look forward to exploring the boardwalk, shopping, and finding a new mix on shrimp and grits. Every restaurant have their own way of making it. I don’t think that we have found a bad one yet.
This love for Charleston started with our first trip there. It was our honey moon.
Nice article.
Tony R
Charleston is a beautiful place. Thank you for your kind comment.😃