Autumn Sweater

New day, new challenges, new frustrations; the sun has emerged, already leaving only vulnerable and scant remnants of the first true snow of the season. Yesterday, I lamented, wanting nothing more than a warm, tropical escape. Today, I still welcome and yearn for escape, but I realize it is more solitude that I seek, rather than a balmy environment. It has been years since I have strolled along a beach during the colder months, the wet, chilled sand giving pressure against the soles of the feet, the waves more violent and yet more tranquil. Bikinis and lotion are forgone, replaced with thick knit sweaters, cashmere scarves, heavy rubber boots. During the off season, or just in more cold climates, beaches always appear more desolate, more isolating. 

(image taken from A Conversation on Cool)