We just returned from a fabulous vacation on the gulf coast of Florida. Every day, I spent hours on the beach, not because I wanted to get a tan, but because for me sitting on the shore of the Gulf of Mexico is a feast to my senses. I am amazed at the intense blue of the sky and crystal green of the water. My skin is caressed by the powder soft sand and cleansing sea water. The sound of the surf, whether pounding or sliding onto the shore is like a lullaby that gently lulls me to relax. There is nothing like the fragrance of the sea or the subtle taste of salt on my lips as I rest on the shore. The wildlife that share their space with us were a constant source of joy. We were always on the lookout for the bright flash of sun reflecting on the fins of the dolphins or the sun shining through a wave that revealed a school of fish as vividly as if they were swimming in an aquarium. The ghost crabs peeping out from the safety of their tunnels never ceased to delight us. We were awestruck at the way the shore birds never were caught by an unexpected wave as they the manically searched for treats or the pelicans as they skimmed inches above the surface of the rolling waves.
But this year, it was the unexpected delight of the tiny fall wildflowers that captured my attention. I counted five different blooming plants growing in the sand along the boardwalk leading to the beach. With the exception of the beach morning glory, I have no idea what these flowers are. They grow in the most hostile of environments, nutrient deprived, salty soil, at risk of trampling feet, brutal sun, and limited water and yet every day they formed a brightly colored border, guiding me to my gulf adventure.
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