Growing up in landlocked St. Louis, I knew rivers and lakes, but the closest I ever got to an ocean was the Gulf of Mexico. My first introduction to the Gulf was when I was taking an advanced Geology Course that was offered on Santa Rosa Island near Pensacola.
It is a National Seashore where we were able to do topographic mapping of the sand dunes, study the stars, and learn about the various eco-systems. I fell in love with the beach. In fact, being able to be close to these beaches made my decision to get my MSW at the Tulane School of Social Work in New Orleans.
After graduating and returning to live permanently in New Orleans, it wasn't unusual for me to get up very early in the morning and drive over to Santa Rosa Island, so I'd get there at about 9:30 or 10:00.
I'd spend the morning into the afternoon, head over to a favorite restaurant for a late lunch, and then head back to New Orleans and still make it home before dark.
I prefer the white sands and shades of green and blue waters of Pensacola.
The Mississippi Gulf Coast was much closer. I could easily be there in an hour. As time went on, many of my friends bought weekend places there or retired to live there full time. This meant I had more reason to choose Mississippi over Florida, and often did.
No matter where the beach, the seagulls are always favorites of mine. These Bay St. Louis guys tickled me.
I must be missing beaches today.
Enjoy my silly seagulls!
Happy Tuesday!
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