Like butterflies they flock upon the beach.

So many colours!

Stripey awnings fragile tents boogie boards

bare legs and flowery shorts

sun hats and pink shoulders.

All as busy as bees!

 

There’s such an urgency

in damming streams

and making sandcastles before the tide comes in.

 

The sea is wild but welcoming.

I brought a book with me.

A solitary woman on the beach.

 

In years gone by

I might have wished them gone

but now I like to watch the people.

 

For everyone is  happy on the beach.

They have their fun before the tide comes in

then back to caravan or b&b

and cream and jam and scones

for Sunday tea.

 

I think “observer” is the role for me,

to sit and watch

waves and humanity roll by.

 

The beach shrinks and we all squeeze up

and it’s like a warm caress

and I go home content,

for I have shared their happiness.