How’s the weather from where you are? Here in Dubai, we’re feeling summer-y already! The early mornings and nights are still cool but midday has been warmer. We thought it’s time to hit the beach before it becomes a huge hot tub.

I missed going to the beach because after living here for a couple of years, the touristy feeling wore off and we became lazy bums on weekends. To think the beach is just a few minutes drive away!

Pristine was so ready and immediately run to the shore. Unfortunately, it wasn’t really the perfect beach weather: it was windy, the sea wasn’t calm and because I couldn’t jump in the water with her (plus the water was still too cold for a dip), she decided not to swim. (There are no life guards at the Jumeirah public open beach.)

There were very few people in the water , everyone just sunbathed and strolled in the sand. And took jump shots.

And more jump shots.

Benjamin, however had no idea what we were doing there. First, he didn’t want to let go. No matter what happens, this baby bear isn’t going down the tree! He is still afraid, as his first day at the beach last year.

After an ample time of observing the things around, he was ok when I put him on the sand. But he did not let go of my hand. But imagine how terrifying the beach would be to an 16 month old Earthling?

He didn’t know why the Earth was suddenly loose, for starters. He’s been walking for almost six months now, very well on firm ground and suddenly, losing balance? This is unacceptable, mama!

And this…this water is insane! Why does it keep on coming then going? Coming, going, coming, going. Mama, it’s making me dizzeh! And I don’t like what the wind does to my hair. See?

Dear water, can you make up your mind, please?

But like everything in the toddler world: conquer time comes. This is the face of conquer time.

We had a nice time although it was more like, “hey we’ve wet our knees already, let’s go home!” type of outing. I hope when we go back next week or the next, the weather is better and we can actually swim.

So much for the kiddos – That day marked something for me – no it wasn’t the day I went to the beach in a bikini.

It was the first time in my six years of living here to drive all the way to Jumeirah! All. By. Myself. I even conquered my fear: I drove through Sheikh Zayed Road! Woo Hoo!! I suddenly felt so grown up!

BUT, it was Friday morning when 90% of the people are still in bed by 9 am so maybe it’s not counted?