Second: You need to gather for the formalities, listen to instructions about what trash goes in what colored bag, sign the waiver and promise not to sue anyone should you get injured or washed away by a tsunami.....hey wait....I just lost a few volunteers...scratch that part about the tsunami...........
Third: Head out and meet at your favorite beach. We chose Sanak first. It is best to go when the tide is going out or at it's lowest and then start walking......face down.....looking for debris...
Reminder: Make sure you look up every once in a while to see just where God has placed you and say thanks for the beautiful scenery....
Fourth: Debris comes in all shapes and sizes. There is plastic, aluminum, rope, netting, and then the most popular beach items around here are metal...HUGE, HEAVY pieces of iron, steel, chains,
and of course the occasional Texas Long Horn cow skull......
Don't all beaches have these?
Fifth: Stay in close groups called the "buddy system" so no one gets separated and lost, or swept out to sea...plus it is much more fun to visit while you work and share the incredible finds and treasures........
like buffalo skulls!! Go figure!
Sixth: After a couple of hours of stooping and picking and bagging and hauling, you must be willing to rest, eat lunch out of the back of an old ambulance/hearse and not bat an eye at this concept.
Seven: Next, if your volunteers are still happy and warm and partially fed, it is time to head to another beach...this one is called Russian Town.
Eight: By now, you should be able to identify all major forms of debris and try not to lift anything more than 30 pounds or face the consequences of a hernia or pulled muscle.
Right, Susie Shoe?
And lastly: Never, never take for granted the view from anywhere around here and always give thanks for every drop of sunshine we get.
It may be another year before the beach gets cleaned up again, but I for one will definietly remember the rules and be more than willing to go again next time! Thermals and all......
