The weather was beautiful -- dry, slightly overcast, with sunbeams inching their way through the cloud cover. The drive to Beavertail, Jamestown brought back joyous memories of earlier days, when I used to take my "offspring" for a day of rock climbing, picnic lunches and chatty conversations.

Life was good, and life is still good, as I remembered that my companion and I were now driving over the new Jamestown bridge, rather than the other,

Jamestown Bridges, new and old Staff Photo

rickety bridge that is still standing for fishing, walks, if you dare, but no longer for travel...to and from the island.

As we approached the turn off for Beavertail, I noticed the distinct smell of cherry trees that adorned the streets leading to the park. The bird sanctuary along the waterway was still in existence, with egrets, small marsh birds, and the distinct smell of low tide penetrating our noses.

My companion and I arrived shortly after 12:00, and quickly began our descent amongst the rocks. The water appeared as calm as could be.......slight ripples danced along the crest, as a gust of wind brushed itself gently across my face. The sun was warm, and soothing to the old bones, as we climbed further down the rocks. Tiny barnacle-like creatures clung to my sneakers, as I marveled at their existence.

Beavertail rocks and waves (Dan Aurelio Digital Photography)

I became lost in the quietness of the moment, remembering how the ocean has always been able to bring me to a place of serenity.

We enjoyed our climb, and decided to make our way up the rocks to Rhode Island's first lighthouse, which was built in 1749. The lighthouse still serves as a guide to sailing vessels, but inside, also contains a very historical section that visitors would find a wealth of information.

Amongst the pictures and documents of the original lighthouse, young visitors would be entertained with actual live demonstrations of sea creatures, such as starfish, snails, and other small aquatic specimens. I can remember, years ago, when my "guys" and I would enjoy the little guided tours of the lighthouse. However, it usually ended up with them sticking their hands into the aquarium, hoping to catch one of the sea creatures until one of the nature guides would quickly remind them that's not how one fished!

Once our "tour" ended of the lighthouse, we decided that we would walk the park grounds. Families appeared to be enjoying themselves, while flying kites, fishing, and stuffing their faces with all kinds of goodies.

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On our way through the mazes of cars and passengers enjoying the scenery, a cluster of beautifully detailed butterflies living in their natural habitat of thickets and weeds rewarded us. They floated in front of us, almost like tiny dancing fairies of pastel blue, pink and yellow colors.

Along with that gift, we received another one, that of a wedding ceremony being performed on the grounds, overlooking Newport Harbor. What a wonderful memory this couple will have, with gleaming waters and sun kissed waves; a memory I am sure they will cherish for the rest of their lives.

We continued our walk; until our tired old legs reminded us that they were going to be needed for other places so we packed our belongings and left behind the sweet memories of a fun filled afternoon at Beavertail, Jamestown.

Beavertail has always had special meaning for me in that I have been able to plot my "escape" from life's stresses, and not have to travel very far to

The beacon light on the tower's top (Dan Aurelio Digital Photography)

get to my own personal retreat. The mere fact that one can just meditate on the beauty of the ocean, and the surrounding park grounds is enough to make one not want to go back home afterwards.

But, reality soon takes over, when you realize, there are bills to pay, kids to feed and an editor that wants his articles on time.......

Linda Eagleson has been a writer for as long as she can remember. She has been published in local papers, anthologies, and columns, and participates in poetry slams throughout the state. Her passion for life shows in her writing.

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