I try with all my might to never take it for granted. Collectively, we express this regularly. We are so lucky to live by the beach. So many of my favorite memories happened on or near the ocean; Hours soaking up the sun splashing in the water with my brothers as kids, my first job, meeting C, our wedding, watching the puppies frolic in pure joy at the dog beach, crossing the finish line of our first marathon (I think there will be more…jury’s still out), etc. And all of these things just a short drive away.
There is something so cathartic about watching the waves. They never fail to keep rolling in and out, in and out. It is literally impossible for me to look out in to the ocean and not feel this overwhelming sense of gratitude. More times than not, it actually brings a tear to my eye.
Just the other day we were at the beach. I walked towards the water, my toes sifting through the sand, the small shells cracking under the balls of my feet. I stood there, facing out in to the ocean, and just got completely lost in my thoughts. I must have been there a good 20 minutes, saying nothing, just staring off in to the big vast landscape of blue. C came up behind me. As I turned to him, I had a tear in my eye I hadn’t even known was there. All I could say was “Thank you”. He smiled down at me. I went back to our chairs and sent my mom a text saying the same exact two words.
It just made me realize there is SO VERY MUCH to be grateful for. It was a good reminder to express it to those that deserve to hear it.
Cheers!