So it was Yorktown Beach for some night time relaxation and conversation by the water.
I supplied the birthday mix cd that included "throwbacks, newbies, and pretty duets." Yes, we karaoke'd the duets the whole trip. And yes, I stole glances as his face softened and he let loose a small chuckle everytime he recognized a throwback song that had defined a moment or two, or three of our relationship.
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| the sky on our drive down the Parkway |
When we arrived it was already dark and the beach was beautifully lit by the glaring lights from the bridge. We strolled down the small boardwalk, passing the crowded patios of seafood restaurants. Although my stomach seemed to be screaming at me and the occupants' food looked so good, I wasn't tempted. Ben and I frequently go out to dinner. But there was an unspoken purpose to this evening. This was a time for us to be still and soak in each other's company -- along with the company of the water that glistened yellow and orange a few yards from us.
We settled on a small alcove of the beach. Ben laid out the blanket and we plopped down. We were quiet at first as the night time wind began rustling the calm river. Then Ben began talking about the matters of his heart, which is not everyday conversation for us. I'm the one who talks about feelings, thrills, and sentiments. He's the levelheaded, logical, and steady one. So, as we're enjoying the hum of the cars racing across the bridge and the gentle rocking of the water, he just starts blurting it all out. Although he was telling me about good things, things we've been praying for, it was vulnerable nonetheless. I had to hide my pleasure as he talked, afraid he'd suspect I was laughing at him. I wasn't laughing at him! But I was excited because he was speaking my language. Over the next hour or so, we both did our share of talking and listening as we snacked on cheese and buried our toes in the sand.
