I am fortunate to live within steps of the ocean, and even after 8 years here, I do not take that blessing for granted. Ever. I try to visit the beach daily, usually for sunrise walks, but even if I'm out of town or miss those jaunts for some reason, I never go more than a week without sticking my toes in the sand. It's a ritual, therapy, workout, nature immersion, and, sometimes, a social occasion. Over the years, I've gotten to know the "regulars," the mostly-women-but-a-few-men who also push themselves out of bed while it's still dark outside and make their way to the shore to walk, bike, or just sit quietly with their coffee and watch the sun rise over the sea.
While every day is wonderful, each sunrise unique in its own way, now & then I'm treated to something truly special, an experience that is simply breathtaking and one which won't soon be forgotten. Over the past few weeks, I've had several of such moments.
Our county has a very active sea turtle patrol & rescue who really work hard to ensure that the turtle population grows & thrives. During nesting season, the volunteers (again, mostly women) can be seen observing turtle tracks, marking nests, putting up barriers, then, when the time is right, gently digging up the sand to count and record eggs (both viable and not), and give the hatchlings some assistance if needed. (More about that here: http://www.turtlepatrol.com/about-us.html)
It's quite rare to see a mama turtle nesting, and I had only witnessed this one time since moving here. Until July 26th. It was then that I came upon a Green Turtle who was digging the "body cave" into which she would lay her eggs. This was quite an event, let me tell you! She digs and tears with those massive flippers, sending sand and debris several feet into the air! Unfortunately, this lady appeared to be stuck in some plant life, and was struggling to continue her work. I called my "turtle lady" friend (whom I have on speed dial!) and she advised me to gently approach and untangle the growth. Oh. my. god. I kept D on the phone as I proceeded to do just that. I don't know who was more nervous, me or the mama, but I approached slowly and spoke to her gently, hoping to assure her that I wasn't there to harm, only help. She looked me in the eye, I swear she did, and seemed to understand. I backed up, and she proceeded with her task, seemingly unencumbered.
By this time, a small crowd had gathered, taking pictures and video, but remaining at a safe, respectful distance. We stood there for at least an hour, watching and waiting, until she completed her nesting and made her way to the shore. Barely a word was uttered, we were all truly awestruck and I spied a few of us were wiping tears from our eyes. It was simply magical, there's no other way to describe it, and I walked on air for the rest of the day, so grateful to have been a witness to this incredible event.
I've had a couple other wonderful turtle-related moments recently, but I think I'll hold off on sharing them for now. I just want to sit and relive this day, and thank Mother Nature again for her amazing creatures.
Michele~
PS Photos by my fellow sunrise walker, Linda Day.
