More and more I’m drawn to the ocean. The open horizon soothes me and the potential for beach combing discoveries spices my visits. It’s a sweet retreat from the hurly-burly of teaching life and a wonderful place to indulge my love of photography. Until recently, I don’t think I’ve ever spent time on the beach in the fall. I’ve tumbled into love with the long expanses of empty beach, moody skies, brisk breezes, sculpted sand and, above all, the serenity. The juxtaposition of autumn light and sites against the quintessential summer setting has been a startling, yet deeply satisfying experience.
The Maine beaches I most love combine wind-whipped pines, rose-dotted dunes, tide-tunneled rocks, pockets of tidal pools and unexpected sandy crescents. These beaches are hidden behind headlands, adjacent to marshes and tucked into rocky coastline. They are places for exploration, contemplation and appreciation. Even when out of sight, the ocean is always there in the salty bite of the breeze and the occasional call of gulls. These recent weekend autumnal beach visits have been a balm, a boon, a blessing.
Nix the comfort zone 
beautiful! I love your pictures- they really transport me to the serenity of the beach! I also love the beach in the winter- just bundle up!
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I’ve so enjoyed my recent visits–I’m glad you did as well!
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Oh how I adore the beach!! These pictures are amazing. I wish I lived closer. Thank you for sharing!
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Thanks, Michelle. I’m determined to make autumn beach visits a regular part of my life and may aim for winter ones as well!
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Awesome pics! I find peace when I’m by a body of water, so I completely understand how you feel. I’m loving autumn, too, with all it’s beautiful colors. 🙂
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Autumn is a season for the senses!
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I love that picture of the leaf in the sand… just gorgeous. Moody skies… so true… thanks for sharing the peace of the beach this election morning.
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Thanks! I would have loved to escape to the beach today –election therapy!
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Molly your words are so tranguill and expressive along with your superb photos. I studied nature photography and i know when i see good composition! You have created something special here… submit it somewhere it is that good
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Wow! Thanks so much! I really appreciate your kind words and am glad you enjoyed my post.
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Oh my…I feel as though I’ve been at the sea shore, thanks to your lovely photographs.
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Thanks, Tara!
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These are great! We are indeed thinking alike! I would love to have walked the Maine beaches with you! I love the sand and the colored leaves together! Nice job with the photos!
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Thanks, Joanne. I was fascinated by the leaves in the sand–such an unexpected combination!
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Your post is so refreshing and a delight read. And, of course your photography never disappoints. I had all intentions to disconnecting today but I decided to read only those posts that I knew would leave me feeling calm and positive. Thanks for meeting me where I needed to be!
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I’m so happy to know that my post offered a respite from today’s chaos. I’m on a news blackout right now. I’ve decided that tomorrow is soon enough to know. I don’t want to go along on the ride this evening. Peace, my friend!
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Your words and images are gorgeous, Molly! Thank you for sharing the serene beauty of this beach.
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