It sometimes amazes me how little we appreciate the things closest to us. Someone has told me that I am exotic and that I live in an exotic place. I think he is crazy; he is more exotic than anything or anyone I have ever known.

And yet through his eyes I am exotic and do live in an exotic place. When I look at where I live I can see why he thinks it exotic and wonderful. In fact it is exotic and wonderful if I just open my eyes and take the time to experience and appreciate it.

One evening I spent time down by the beach, well past dark. There were fires in fire pits that started out with tall red flames, slowly shrinking to warm glows that shimmered with the heat of the coals. The pier closed, and the street which was once filled with people enjoying the sea and air was slowly deserted for the interior of restaurants.

Finally the stragglers left the restaurants, as did we, to return home. The street was peaceful and quiet and I took this photo.