2010

I lay on the beach in a welcome delirium. I love sleeping in the sun and would do it forever if the moon would stop raining on my parade. The sun was so warm and cuddly, I didn't want to move in case it broke the spell. I was feeling as though sun stroke was an option; to be honest it seemed really attractive. Why move yourself and break the moment?

Reluctantly, I pulled my bottle out of my bag and took a large gulp of water. I smirked as I thought of Carey and I recollecting our new years. He had told me that he hadn't drunk much over new years, which surprised him. I told him that I had, since I didn't want to get dehydrated. Naivety is a beautiful thing.

All around our towels were little families with little children. They squealed in the shallows as miniature waves rolled in.

We were at Cheltenham, one of my favourite beaches. Our year 13 farewell dinner had been hosted there and I'd spent countless hours sunbathing with friends. One of the greatest fish and chips shops is really close by. Today was another proud feather in Mr. Cheltenham's hat.

In the end, it was only Nick, Carey and myself who could make it - a bonafide sausage fest. That didn't matter though, it increased our sense of bachelorhood. This was ironic, as Carey swore a likeness of the girl who contacted him at the airport.

I found myself thinking of the music video I'd seen last night. I can't remember any lyrics, the name or band but the love story is simple and alluring. Two teenagers kayak to an island and lie in the sun on an empty beach. I'm not sure exactly what paradise is like, but I have to say these occasions get pretty close.

Still doughy headed, I lunged towards the shallows to shake my fuzzy head. The water was crisp and sobering. A swelling tide made for great swimming. I didn't stay in long but cherished the swim all the same.

As the car soared home and lax summer music played, I was pleased that my summer days were being used well. Sometimes, I hope that eternity can be spent lying on a beach.