GBC

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I couldn't resist posting this crazy photo of me, Tim, and our two youngest grandsons... complete with what appears to be my very own bright orange afro! The bonfire behind us was so enormous and blazing that it bathed everyone in a fiery orange glow. I promise my hair isn't actually that color!

Our youngest grandson, Scotty, must have thought he had landed on another planet. Ocean waves crashing, fireworks lighting up the sky, a roaring bonfire, live music, and happy crowds everywhere... welcome to summer in South County little Scotty. 

I've never seen the beach club so packed. It seemed like everyone escaped to the shoreline to cool off after the oppressive inland heat. Despite the crowds, the atmosphere was nothing but festive. The energy was contagious, and the celebration carried on until nearly 11:00 p.m., when we finally rounded everyone up and headed home with three exhausted, sandy kids who were definitely in need of showers.

We hadn't realized there would be fireworks, so the colorful display was an unexpected bonus. Our grandsons squealed with delight every time another burst filled the sky. They were just as fascinated watching the Block Island ferries drift by, all lit up against the dark water and filled with passengers off to  enjoy the holiday weekend.

Throughout the evening, I found myself feeling incredibly grateful that we joined our second beach club. While our original club is wonderful for relaxing beach days, evenings there are quiet, and the strict guest policy makes it difficult to bring along our children and grandchildren.

At the Galilee Beach Club, everyone is welcomed with open arms. Our grandkids absolutely love it there. They even have a staff member whose sole job is entertaining the children. He's practically a rock star in their eyes! As much fun as the adults have gathering around the tiki bar, listening to music, and catching up with friends, I honestly think the kids have even more fun.

They race along the shoreline playing tag beneath the stars, dig in the sand, run inside for crafts or a quick game of cards, then head right back out to the beach again. For a few magical hours, they own the sand as if the whole world belongs to them.

It was karaoke night, and every child who stepped up to the microphone was cheered on like a superstar. Each performance earned thunderous applause from the crowd, no matter how young or shy the singer. That's exactly how it should be.

We'll be heading back again for another summer evening by the water, making memories, checking off our summer bucket list, and soaking up every magical beach night while the season lasts.

"To live is the rarest thing in the world. Most people exist, that is all." ~ Oscar Wilde