3 Nouns

Serenity
Norah Jones album, a hammock swinging in the breeze
push and pull of the tide on a mildly warm day at the coast
a long drive in solitude with the sunroof open wide
a steamy hot shower without the rush to finish
eucalyptus or lavender scented hand lotion
refreshing evening breezes and long walks in nature
a long deep gaze into campfire flames

Happiness
A child learning to read, baby toes
long weekends and fruity cocktails
belly laughs from your children and funny movies
sunsets and flip flops, rollercoaster rides
dinner with a friend, phone calls on your birthday
photos from your favorite vacation
the woods, the beach, the great outdoors

Love
Puppy kisses and wagging tails
being married to your very best friend
all night conversations with your sister
random I love you's from the your child now grown
support and acceptance, guidance and understanding
parents who give it all unconditionally
family from generation to generation

Seaside Serenity

The sun is sinking, and clouds haze over the afternoon sky. Gone are the children, laughing and splashing about in the choppy gulf waves. Their sand village abandoned and washing away. As their energy runs low, they whine and tug at their wet sandy bathing suits while mom and dad drag the gear and coolers to the car. A small group of out-of-towners tips back the last of their afternoon beer. Their conversation gets louder or the beach is quieter, and their guffaws have little competition. Seagulls flapping their wings, soar above and sweep down, taking a few steps and taking flight again. With my toes in the sand, I sit peacefully with the coastal breeze tossing around my hair and the salty air cleansing my skin. The beach clears out and I feel my breath in rhythm with the pulling and pushing of the evening tide. Dusk at the beach, just me and my thoughts peaceful and calm.