i don't like to admit it, but it's been quite a number of years since i've been at a beach. i didn't know that i missed it so much until i stood on top of a dune, the sea in front of me, no limit at the horizon, and i felt some sort of relief inside. breathing always is a little bit easier while standing on the shore and watching the tide go in or out.
the first day of our stay i spent almost entirely outdoors. one of my friends is a kitesurfer and as he kited up and down the shore i was walking alongside the waterline. the sun was shining that afternoon (while germany was drowned in pouring rain) and one of the first things i did was taking off my shoes and walking barefoot through the sand. the water was freezing cold as it washed against my feet but i didn't care for i hadn't felt that much alive for a long time.