Feel the burn

I guess it was inevitable. Our fair skin didn't fare well after the first day at the beach. Only one of us emerged unscathed from the experience. The rest of us are suffering a bit, especially on our backs. Polly was blessed with many things and one of them is olive skin. She has a beautiful tan on her smooth, muscular body. Hannah, Mark and I have got red, sting-y backs. Pat's shoulders are a little sore. We used sunblock and re-applied frequently, but must have missed our backs.

I woke first again this morning. Decided to go for a run on the beach. The sun was higher in the sky than I anticipated. Several people let their dogs enjoy the early morning tide, before the crush of vacationers takes over. The water was cooler this morning, more refreshing than yesterday's bath-water temperature. The bike paths and small roads are pretty here, with trees that overarch the roadway, hanging gently in the breeze.

Once the kids awoke, we took a trip to Target while Mark explored the island on a bicycle.
Pat was anxious to cash in on a promise from long ago. Mark told him that he would get something special when he was able to ride his bike up and down our driveway several times without stopping. Now that Pat has crossed this important milestone, he's ready for his reward. He selected an Indian Jones-themed Lego set. While Pat and i were reviewing his options, he looked up at me and said, "You know the one bad thing about shopping? You have to pay for it." How right he is!

We also picked up more sunblock and a couple of beach towels, some books, cereal, and other provisions for our vacation.

Though it is a little hazy today, the sun still stings our backs, event through our clothing. It's not the worst burn I've ever had, but it is still uncomfortable. Hannah and Mark are worse.

We returned from Target, hungry and ready for lunch. Mark and I went to Publix, the local grocery store. We picked up enough food for at least a couple of lunches, snacks and a dinner. It will save us time and money on the trip.

Now that we've finished our lunch, Polly and Mark rode their bikes to the beach. They will try out our new styrofoam boogie boards and hopefully escape the sun. Pat, Hannah and I may join them in an hour or so, when the sun is not as intense. If we do, I'll wear a t-shirt to protect my back.