Ah, the Beach

Well, let's see, should I post a little more? Ok, you talked me into it! Let's see what pictures I have here...Oh boy! I see some good ones!

I'll let you get psyched up while I a wish a warm welcome and hearty congratulations on the births of two new big baby boys this week. First, Jackson Porter Curtiss, 9lb. 2oz. was born to our friends Cary and Ashley on August 9, and then Theo Bennett Levering, 8lb. 3oz. was born to my cousin Audri and her husband Craig on August 16. Everyone is healthy and happy!

And now for a trip to Kovalam beach where the waves are mighty and the seafood is plentiful. Did I mention this place is a 30 minute bus ride from where we live?

The top right photo is from our hotel balcony. We had the entire hotel and much of the beach to ourselves when we went a couple of weeks ago for a restful 2 days.
Here are some pictures of men and women walking on the beach. Wooden boats like this one lie covered along the beach. The waves were huge and powerful because the monsoons are just ending. By the time high season begins, in November, Kerala will be clear and sunny and not too hot, and the waves will be down. A perfect escape from winter. I can see why this beach fills up. This little puppy has a tilka, the red blessing you often see on people, including babies, and the painted on eyebrows that babies often have in professional photos. There is also sometimes a large birthmark painted on the cheek. The dogs at this beach were so chilled out and happy. A volunteer mobile veterinary service comes out once a month to give them all check-ups and whatever care they need. They live out there on the beach, but get care from the people who live there. They don't bother anyone, but if you approach, they are all sweet and friendly. I have cherished the few times I've been able to pet a dog on this trip.

These shrimp are about to be our dinner. The fresh catch of fish, shrimp, squid, octopus, lobster are all on display as you walk along the beach after dark. Just step into one of the open air resturaunts and have a candlelit dinner on the beach. Neither Mark nor I have ever lived this close to the beach before, and we are stoked. We are planning another trip there this weekend, to celebrate and relax after Mark chugs and glides successfully past his first work deadline here. Hip Hip Hooray!