I wanted to share a couple pictures I took of the beach this morning.  When I

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ke up, it was a beautiful 60 degrees. The waves were quietly lapping up against the shore. The air was still. It truly is paradise.

As I was sitting on my hotel balcony, there was a man walking on the beach collecting sea shells. Five pelicans flew by, skimming the water with their immense wingspan. They were gliding across the surf in immaculate formation, greeting this beautiful God-given day. Gulls flew in their playful manner. Everything else was still except the pulse of the Gulf beating against the shore.

In three days,  this quite tranquil beach will be abuzz! 2500 athletes and thousands of spectators will line the beach. The energy of anticipation will fill the brisk morning air, becoming so thick, every breath will be filled with anticipation. The quiet peace will be filled with the chatter of the athletes. At last, the day of celebration will be with us.