I laugh, turn around, and run forward, my steps light and long, my hair flowing in the wind. I tear off my red sweater, and leave it hanging on the low branch of a pine tree. When I reach the shore I lower myself slowly into the water feet first. I stop when I feel it reach my stomach, the water fills my navel and I lean backwards resting my head on the shore, looking up towards the sky. The cool water caresses my body, and I spread my legs giving it free passage. I hold my breath and lie unmoving, thinking: “All things considered, I’d rather be at the beach.