Anticipation Day

As they walked, Francisca explained that the wind constantly moved the dunes, preventing the sand from heating up, so it stayed relatively cool. This allowed people to walk on it barefoot. She also mentioned that the best time to visit was July and August when there was no rain and the lagoons were full, as it typically rained from December through June.

From what Alexandra could understand, the dunes were formed as sediment from two rivers was carried towards the ocean and deposited.

The dunes were simply stunning. Bright white, and extending as far as the eye could see, it felt like they were on another planet. They soon came across their first lagoon, which was small but beautiful, calm, and serene. It was the bluest and clearest water she had ever seen—like something out of a movie.

They continued west towards the village, encountering lagoons every half mile or so. Alexandra was amazed that every single lagoon they saw was slightly different in size and shape, yet each was equally inviting.

After about two hours of hiking, Francisca suggested they take a dip to refresh and relax for a bit. The sun was getting high in the sky, making it a much-needed respite from the heat.

Alexandra headed to the nearest lagoon, sitting on the sand for a few minutes and soaking in the view. She thought, “I wish the kids were here to see this.”

She missed her kids. Though to them, she had only been gone a few hours, at this point it felt like she had been without them for weeks. She had never been away from all three of them for more than a few days so it was getting challenging to be without them.

Her kids were her life. Corey was just like Eric—feisty and competitive but with a deep, warm heart. He was also very handsome. She always had a soft spot for her firstborn.

Noah was her twin in every way, a goofball who could make her laugh whenever he wanted.

Sophia was her little princess. Once a daddy’s girl, Eric’s attitude had recently drawn her closer to Alexandra. She spoiled Sophia with dresses, toys, and their special Sunday morning breakfasts, where it was just mommy and daughter.

She missed Sophia the most; they had never been apart for more than a few nights and it was getting harder and harder to be without her.

As she stared into the blue lagoon, surrounded by beautiful white sand, she closed her eyes and listened to the sound of nothingness. What a magical and soul-cleansing place to visit.

At that moment, sitting in this place, feeling as relaxed as she was, she came to the decision that she would skip ahead in her trip in order to get home quicker. Alexandra still wanted to see Iguazu Falls, as she heard it was breathtaking.