Last week, Jean and I journeyed out to the coast for a brief 3 day respite at the Sylvia Beach Hotel; a lovely, historic place, where wi-fi does not exist. So, in honour of Jean’s birthday we simply relaxed; sitting by the windows of the third floor library, feet up, nose in our books, only to periodically lift our heads to stare out to the sea. The image to the left is the view to the north from our room, also seen from the library’s north side window as well. This should give you a fair sense of the mood of the trip.
Out through the west-facing windows was only the open sea. At glances, the current of the ocean from North to South, gave me the impression of movement; as if on an ocean liner bound for some great destination. I was struck with a sense of journey, of travel without leaving the comfort of the hotel’s library. My wanderlust both stoked and simultaneously satiated; a juxtaposing desire to go and yet remain still. It was the perfect storm of emotions for diving into a book and devouring page upon page.
We did get out for a bit as well, both nights taking part in the family style dinner, and engaging in wonderful conversation with our table mates. We also made our way up the beach a bit to gawk (before it was removed) at the dock which had washed up on the shoreline after the Tsunami had broken it loose of its moorings in Japan. Of course, being us, we also made it out to the two local lighthouses. And Wednesday as we departed for home, we made one last stop at the Aquarium. All were fun and worthwhile endeavors, providing me with a few photo opportunities, but none of which compared to the opportunity provided to just sit and be.
So, enjoy the photos, but know that they won’t do justice to the experience of staying at the Sylvia Beach Hotel…
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