Cloudy with a Chance of Rain and Thunder

This past week, I have been watching doggies with my friend, E.O. Connors, so my apologies because this newsletter is a tad late. I have been enjoying the thunder, the rain, and the humidity. So have the dogs, who require prescription medication once that rumbling starts.

My friend and I get together often (like in Connecticut and Florida) to write our books. Tbh, sometimes, the only time I do any fictional writing. These trips involve a lot of coffee and the beach. Because I like the beach. I also like coffee. The beach and coffee together are perfect.

We decided to go to a beach about halfway between Surf City, NC and North Topsail, NC, which was approximately 40 minutes away. And despite checking the weather before we went to assure us that the rain and thunder would not be near us, it rained. Sometimes, poured.

You probably cannot see in the picture above because of the wording, so I will show you what we saw once we arrived on the beach:

Do you see that dark spot underneath the clouds, kind of in the center of the picture? Yeah, that’s rain. We could see the rain coming. To us. Right where we were headed.

Y’all (that’s my attempt to be southern) … we walked directly into the rain. I rationalized, though, that getting wet was what one is supposed to do at the beach. And it was warm, so it wasn’t like we were wet, cold, and miserable.

We were not to be deterred! We ended up walking a mile, which in my mind was about 40 miles because I really had to use the bathroom. (Coincidentally, E.O. writes a very funny Substack called Where’s the Bathroom?)

But NC was super nice and provided us these wonderful bathrooms and free parking.

We also found this bizarro house-like structure. It looked like it might have been part of a pier at some point. Just look at those storm clouds!

This is what we were walking toward.

It was a perfect day at the beach.

The Promos

This week, I’m featuring The Path of Silence by Edith A. Petrick. Officer Meg Stanton’s day include a dire need for a large coffee (I can totally relate!), some parenting squabbles … and yeah, a dead body on the hood of her partner’s car.

Happenings

I’d feature the doggies that we are watching, but today’s newsletter is already fairly image heavy. I took a pause this week writing any additional legal-ish … because I’ve been walking in the rain on the beach. Fortunately, it did not thunder when we were on the beach. But it did call for thunder. Don’t be on the beach if you hear thunder. Electricity + water = bad.

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Going to the Beach in the Rain: How to Make the Most of Your Beach Trip in Inclement Weather

Rainy days and beach trips may not seem like a perfect match, but with a little creativity and planning, you can turn a gloomy weather forecast into a memorable day of adventure.

Why Rainy Days at the Beach Can Be Enjoyable

While sunny days are often preferred for beach trips, rainy days can offer their own unique charm. The beach takes on a different ambiance when the rain starts to fall – a sense of tranquility and peacefulness. The absence of crowds also adds to the serenity, allowing you to enjoy the natural beauty of the beach undisturbed. The sound of raindrops hitting the ocean creates a soothing symphony, further enhancing the sensory experience. Additionally, rainy days can present opportunities for exploration and discovery, as the beach landscape undergoes subtle transformations.

Preparing for a Rainy Beach Day

A little preparation goes a long way in ensuring you have a fantastic time at the beach, even in inclement weather. First and foremost, check the weather forecast and pack appropriate clothing. A waterproof jacket, rain boots, and an umbrella are essential items to keep you dry and comfortable.

Remember to pack a change of clothes as well, so you can stay warm and cozy after your beach adventures. It’s also a good idea to bring a waterproof bag or a plastic zip-lock bag to protect your electronics and valuables from getting wet. And don’t forget to bring some snacks and drinks to keep you fueled throughout the day.

If you’re traveling with children, bring along some rainy day entertainment such as books, board games, or coloring materials. These will come in handy during breaks from beach activities or if you need to take shelter from the rain.

Rainy Day Beach Activities for Adults

• One option is to explore hidden coves and tide pools. The rain can create beautiful patterns and reflections in the tide pools, making for stunning photo opportunities.
• Take a leisurely stroll along the shoreline, and keep an eye out for interesting shells, rocks, and other treasures that the rain may have washed ashore. You can also take this opportunity to indulge in some beachcombing – a relaxing and meditative activity that involves searching for seashells and other beach treasures.
• If you’re feeling more adventurous, try your hand at building sandcastles in the rain. The wet sand is perfect for sculpting intricate designs and structures. Challenge yourself to create the most elaborate sandcastle you can imagine, and let your creativity run wild. And don’t worry about getting wet – that’s part of the fun!
• For those who prefer a more laid-back experience, bring along a beach chair or a hammock and set up a cozy spot under a beach umbrella. This is the perfect time to catch up on your reading, listen to the sound of the rain, or simply relax and enjoy the peaceful ambiance of the beach. You can also bring a portable speaker and play some soothing music to enhance the atmosphere.

Rainy Day Beach Activities for Kids

Rainy days at the beach can be a delight for children, as they offer endless opportunities for imaginative play and discovery.

• One popular activity is puddle jumping. Put on your rain boots and encourage your little ones to splash around in the puddles that form on the beach. This simple activity can provide hours of entertainment, as children love the sensation of water splashing around their feet.
• Another activity that kids will enjoy is building sand sculptures. Yes, not just for adults!
• If your kids are fans of treasure hunts, organize a rainy day beach scavenger hunt. Create a list of items for them to find, such as seashells of different sizes, pebbles of various colors, or seaweed in unique shapes. This activity will keep them engaged and excited as they explore the beach in search of hidden treasures.

Safety Precautions During Inclement Weather

While rainy beach days can be fun, it’s important to prioritize safety, especially if there are thunderstorms or strong winds. Here are some safety precautions to keep in mind:

• Check the weather forecast regularly and be aware of any severe weather warnings.
• Avoid going into the water during a thunderstorm or if there are signs of lightning.
• Seek shelter in a sturdy beach pavilion or your vehicle if the rain becomes too heavy or if there are strong winds.
• If you’re on an open beach, be mindful of flying debris and seek shelter indoors if necessary.
• Keep an eye on the tide and be aware of any sudden changes or dangerous currents.
• Remember to stay hydrated and take breaks from outdoor activities if needed.

By following these safety guidelines, you can ensure a safe and enjoyable rainy day beach adventure for yourself and your loved ones.

Capturing Memorable Moments in the Rain

Rainy beach days offer unique opportunities for photography enthusiasts to capture stunning and atmospheric shots.

• Embrace the raindrops: Use the raindrops on your camera lens or smartphone screen as a creative element in your photos. Experiment with different angles and compositions to capture the beauty of rain on the beach.
• Play with reflections: Look for puddles or wet sand that can create interesting reflections. Use these reflections to add depth and visual interest to your images.
• Focus on details: Instead of wide shots, zoom in on the details – raindrops on flowers, patterns in the sand, or the texture of wet shells. These close-up shots can reveal the beauty in the small things.
• Use props: Consider bringing colorful umbrellas, raincoats, or rain boots to add a pop of color to your photos. These props can help create a playful and whimsical atmosphere.
• Capture candid moments: Rainy days often evoke a sense of nostalgia and joy. Look for candid moments of people enjoying the rain, splashing in puddles, or huddling under umbrellas. These candid shots can tell a story and evoke emotions.

Remember to protect your camera or smartphone from getting wet by using a waterproof case or keeping it safely stored in a waterproof bag. With a little creativity and a keen eye, you can capture extraordinary images that will remind you of your rainy day beach adventure for years to come.

My Opinion

Getting wet is half the fun of a day at the beach.