On my 14th birthday, my family and I went to the beach south of Florence. To get to the beach from the parking lot, we had to climb up over the sand dune.  It's quite a climb up, but an easy run down the other side to the beach.

Once down the other side, it's always nice to stop and take a little rest.

Once on the beach, our journey began. Any trek on the beach wouldn't be complete without a ball.

Playing in the surf is one of my favorite things to do while at the beach. I am to old to swim but I still love to get my feet wet.

Boy, it's getting harder and harder to keep up with Jake and Mom. After a little rest, I'll be good as new.

OK dad, you can throw the ball now.

It's time for another rest. The weather is beautiful, so I am in no hurry. After all, it's my 14th birthday.

Running on the beach makes me so happy, what a great way to spend my birthday.

This has got to be my best birthday ever. My 15th birthday is only a year away. Who knows what great adventure awaits me then. I hope I get to come back to the beach.