It feels like the end of summer

So we find ourselves back at the beach at the end of the summer holidays, just as we started them.

West Wittering this time, lots of people enjoying the sea and the sun. I watch a girl who is jumping the waves and who has grown taller and more graceful and comfortable in her own body and what it can do.

I see a giddy boy laughing, running round in circles with a light blue spade he chose himself, teasing a daft black dog who is digging sand and chewing pebbles.

I see a strong man swimming and waving, and I take the time to give thanks for this, my beautiful family and consider myself very fortunate indeed.

It feels like the end of summer, but it is also the start of a new season, of birthdays and new schools, of new work challenges and a counting down to the darker months of the year.

Soaking up this late summer sun on a busy English beach I am ready. Bring it on.