"In this sticky web that we're all in, behaving decently is no small task." -- Novelist Stacey D'Erasmo

Wednesday, August 26, 2020

Take a Day Trip

     If you're ever in a funk, due to Coronavirus or for any other reason, sometimes the cure is a day off -- a break in the routine to reset your attitude. We were getting tired of feeling sorry for ourselves because we're self-isolating, staying home, avoiding friends. We're watching TV, reading books, cooking, working in the yard. All things to keep us occupied. But they are not enough . . . just not enough.

     So we decided to take a day trip.

The surf was up

     We've been on a few outings since lockdown began -- to see our local covered bridges, walk along the canal by the river, visit a few historic towns. But there's nothing quite like going to the beach.

Plenty of beachgoers
   
     For us it's an hour-and-a-half drive to the Jersey Shore, where for $10 you can purchase a ticket to get on the beach. Tickets are limited to keep down the crowds. We wore masks as we entered through the gate, where you might be in close proximity to other people. But once on the beach it wasn't hard to maintain at least six feet distance. Yes, someone might come a little closer as they walk by -- but only for an instant, and in the breeze.

But not too crowded
   
     The surf was up, so there were plenty of young surfers (and a few old ones) catching waves and enjoying good long rides. Most of the schools and universities in New Jersey seem to be opening up remotely, leaving people free to spend some extra time at the shore.

Catching a wave
   
     The sun was out, the temperature in the high 80s, and the water was 73 degrees.

Surfing beauty
 
      Still, there was plenty of space to relax and soak up the last rays of summer. A perfect beach day.

Peaceful times
   
     We drove home at the end of the day, back to reality. But the ocean is always there if we feel the need. The beach is beautiful in September.
 

17 comments:

Wisewebwoman said...

I agree. It's such a mind shift to sit by the ocean, even on a cloudy miserable day. And do nothing.

XO
WWW

Anonymous said...

Tom, I totally agree - nothing like a day at the shore! It's more problematic for me because I live on the far west side of your state, making it more like an 8-hour drive. I've been thinking a lot about making the trip in the fall, though, just for one night (I would even consider sleeping in my SUV to avoid hotel). I think it would help get me through the coming winter. Thanks for the post!

gigi-hawaii said...

Wow, ten dollars to go on the beach. Over here, it's free.

Juhli said...

Sounds and looks lovely.

DJan said...

Those are great beach pictures, and the surf is definitely UP! :-)

Tom said...

I don't begrudge NJ its ten dollars -- it costs a lot to keep the beach pretty and clean, and not too crowded. Anon ... maybe I'll see you there in the fall. The beach is nice in Sept. and Oct.

ApacheDug said...

Good for you Tom, loved the pics!

Red said...

It's great to get out if it can be done safely.

Savoring Sixty said...

Great photos and so glad you guys got away for such a nice day trip! We have cabin fever and are looking into a possible daycation too!

Arkansas Patti said...

All those beach shots make me miss Florida. But you are so right, just getting out and going somewhere is so freeing.

Kathy @ SMART Living 365.com said...

Hi Tom! Glad to see you are getting out and about. I know it REALLY makes a difference for Thom and I. We too are enjoying the beach. (especially because temps are scorching back where our home is.). I know sometimes it seems to require extra effort to go some place, but I can't help but believe it is important in the long run. Stay healthy and sane! ~Kathy

Tom said...

Tanks Kathy! Hope you're far away from the Calif fires.

Olga said...

Now that I am in Vermont, I can't easily go to the ocean but the lake and/or a hike in the mountains are good getaways too.

Janis @ RetirementallyChallenged said...

September and October are my favorite beach months here in SoCal. In normal years, the kids and tourists are gone and the older locals take over. I'm not sure what it will be like this year, but I plan to get down there (about a mile away) over the next few weeks to check it out. I don't lay out anymore (those days are long over) but I love walking along the sand. Enjoy the sand and the salt air!

DavidH said...

I remember that you would not leave your house for more than three hours because you do not trust public restrooms. How did you manage on this extended trip?

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