My Private Dog Beach

Chicago is the third largest city in the country. The soundtrack to my day includes rumbling trains, screeching buses and roaring planes. My open window fills with conversations of passing pedestrians and wordless hoots of children on the playground. I love city life. It’s vibrant, exciting and bursting with opportunity. Of course, I also appreciate the benefits of quiet serenity. Which is why I love visiting the dog beach on cooler fall days. The shore is clear. With the dunes behind me and the lake in front of me, it feels like I have my own private retreat.

And my own entertainment! Some of Eko and Penny’s best runs happen when we’re alone

With no distractions and no obstacles, the pups have free rein to fly

The only sounds are the alternating rhythms of lapping waves and pounding paws

The pups pause for deep breaths of the cool air

Then take off for another romp

I know a city of nearly three million people lies just beyond eyesight

But for a few moments it’s only me, Eko, Penny,

A fall breeze,

And our own private beach

Once we walk over the dune we re-enter the city and all it’s wonderful cacophony. I always do so more relaxed and more energized. That may sound like a contradiction, but if you have ever been out in the world, alone with just you and your dog you’ll know exactly what I mean.

If you haven’t, I highly recommend finding a beach, trail or quiet place near you!