RD Mathers.com

So far, I have yet to find a season where I don’t like coming down the shore.  This weekend, I came down to the real OC to help my folks do some painting and light repairs on the house we have here.

After a very productive day, I went for a walk on the boardwalk and tooled down Asbury.  There is something very calming about the wind and the woosh of the tide.  It helps one clear their head and energize the creative mind.

The Other Brother runs, swims, bikes and hikes to clear his head and Joe The Actor… well acts and builds to clear his.  Me?  I’ll take a walk on the beach any day.

Why do I love the shore?  It could be that I’ve been coming here off and on since I was 6 months old… or 7 months or 8… since I was a tyke, regardless.

My paternal grandparents had a summer place in Avalon and we would always spend at least a week here each year. I have always been drawn to water, and it’s effects on the soul. If I ever live in a non-coastal place (which could happen), I will have to come to a coast frequently.
Some of the most important realizations of my life happened at the shore.  I first understood the true meaning of family and how you can’t always trust everyone all the time.  I had my very first crush at the shore.  I realized that I was in love for the first time at the shore.  I suspected that I would have my heart broken for the first time, at the shore.  I realized that I would be all right, while standing in the ocean (ok – that was in St. John, but you get my point).

My parents will retire down the shore.  Wow, this is starting to sound like a John Mellencamp meets Springsteen post.

My cousin (a new and brilliant blogger in her own write) loves it here too. Now that she is a mom, she tries to bring her family here at least once a year.

It’s in our blood.  God Bless the Shore.