Henry’s Beach

​Henry’s Beach has always been one of my favorite beaches to frequent during my time in Santa Barbara, most likely because it is smaller, a bit out of the way, and much less popular among beach goers. Or it used to be, anyway😂😂.  I made that my last stop today before heading to the airport, as I had a two hour window. It brought to mind so many wonderful memories, one of which was especially poignant. My friend Jan and I worked at a skilled nursing facility for children with cerebral palsy. One Thanksgiving, since the both of us had decided to stay in Santa Barbara for the holiday rather than going home to North Dakota, offered to work double shifts. At some point during the evening, a dear friend of mine brought us each a plate of Thanksgiving vittles to enjoy, along with two slices of home made sweet potato pie.  I stashed them in the refrigerator until we were off duty, and then we went to Henry’s Beach to celebrate Thanksgiving with just the two of us. As we ate our turkey, mashed potatoes, stuffing and pie by the light of the moon, I couldn’t think of anyplace I’d have rather been at that moment.  We lingered long after we had finished eating, just enjoying the moment, and visiting with one another about our wonderful and magical day.💕

Henry’s Beach hasn’t changed much at all that I can tell, and it’s hard to believe that well over 40 years have passed since then. But the memories remain firmly etched in my heart and in my mind.🤗