First morning walk of my Martha's Vineyard summer: The dogs and I trot up the dirt road, hills, hills, to the winding descent through the scrubby woods, down, down, to the stairs, to the beach, to the sea. Hot sun, 7 am. In delightful seclusion, the birds and the fishing boats, we walk a great distance over slippery stones at low tide. And stop, as we do every morning, at the freshwater brook that runs to sea. The red sorrel is brightly blooming in the cold, cold water. Then, further on, to the Great Rock Bight, where it's my turn to dip in the bracing water while the dogs watch, wait. And, then, our slow, long, happy, satisfied return, up the dirt road, passing the Queen Anne's lace with blooms as large as dessert plates. Gratitude: for Charlie being well and enjoying himself so much he makes me and Suzi very happy. (That's not a seal in the Sound, it's Charlie!)

All photos and text copyright Kelly DuMar 2017