an early start to drive east to the coast
the sun already high at seven
by eight outside Peterborough
the rush hour is half-hearted
by nine we see the sea
Hunstanton's car parks offer loads of space
the sun shines hot, but coffee hits the spot
the tide is out, the beaches spread for miles
we stroll along the prom
bathed by a sea breeze
the cliffs rise in broad colour bands
the greens and gardens lead upwards
to the bowling club and cafe with a view
benches along a wall, almost in shade
we walk, we look for hats and sandals
have lunch and wander to the beach
the tide's way way out,
a long hike to the sea
we sport the trousers-rolled-to-paddle look
retreat with chairs and books to wait awhile
watching the crowds, all ages, sizes
by five the sea is close and deep enough to swim
and warm, no shivers today
though we have memories
two years since we've had a sea swim
this time no need to brace as
the water licks my belly
when we emerge the breeze is welcome
not fierce and chill
a meal at Goblin Pantry fills the belly
we still seek shade and breeze
To end the day a pilgrimage to holdays past
we visit Heacham, locate the house called Shenstone
drive to the beach and watch the sun go down
from this westward facing beach in Eastern England
its golden orange red path on the waves
silhouettes walkers, a dog, an evening bather.
Turning round, we see the risen moon is full.
