Not a sandpiper in sight but the curlew, seagull, and occasional pelican make random appearances. The marine layer hung out longer this morning but that’s the norm in summer when inland temperatures are getting hotter. Along with it, low clouds and spots of fog can linger till near midday.

Plenty of surfers are out in the water but nary a swimmer. There are no seashells, no sea monsters, more helicopters than boats, but there is no Caroline. A solitary cormorant frantically flaps its wings as it maneuvers up the coast, alone like me.

As the sun burns a hole through the overcast sky to the sea a speckled curlew on its descent opens its wings wide with its orange-ish tan and brown colors standing in contrast to the teal water and white surf. Just before the bird sets down there’s a quick flutter of its wings and then it plops down to start looking for signs of food.

Small clumps of seaweed and seagrass dot the line between wet and dry sand while further up the shore large piles of decaying sea plants attract the flies. With the sun quickly evaporating the shade I’m feeling vulnerable to the burning that while taking place even when overcast, is made worse by direct sunlight. Seems like a good time to take Drake on another walk.