I had one hour to spare at Long Beach, Russell

I had an appointment with a notary public in Russell last week. Very official. Very grown up.

I arrived a little early. So I did what I always seem to do. I wandered down to Long Beach.

Comb along and check out what turned up.

For a moment I thought I'd picked up a baby crocodile skeleton.

It's actually a bird pelvis. (I've yet to ID which native bird.) Nature has a funny way of creating things that look completely different from what they really are.

Then I spotted this. Some crafty local has lovingly decorated a beach sign with driftwood and shells.

So I'm definitely not the only person who can't walk along a beach without bringing home a little treasure.

And then this green-lipped mussel shell. Look at that colour. Brilliant. If I ever find a matching pair, they'd make the most gorgeous earrings.

Until next tide.

With sandy hands and a salty heart,
Rina