We didn’t have a lot of money growing up, but the beach was always free. As a kid we spent a good amount of time camping and fishing, but my favorite was combing the beach for shells.
Over the years I lost interest. Time at the beach was replaced by time at a desk. Shells were harder to find and my collection was shelved.
Recently with the pandemic, I’ve tried to keep our three year old active and engaged. So I dust off my shadow box and hold my breath while he rummages through my childhood memories.
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Surprisingly on our beach days after that, we start to find more. At first it was beach glass and a couple of purple cowries in Mokuleia.
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Then in Haleiwa at low tide, we spot a cone shell in the shore break. At first glance it appears to be mostly rock.
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But after closer look we find over a dozen. Not half shells or baby shells, but fully in tact, no pukas, real shells.
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It might not be exciting for some, but to me they’re priceless, and the little man is happy to play along.
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I was already satisfied with what we found, but a third spot washed up some of my favorites.
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Trumpet shells, delicate sand dollars, purple and green wana. Nice variety for Oahu where beaches tend to be overrun.
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I’m still amazed at what we were able to bring home. We wash and organize them in a row of empty spice jars.
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After just a few months, we find ourselves with the start of a proper collection and reminder of life’s simple joys.
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