SUNSET AT LAGUNA BEACH - CA
Growing up on the east coast, I had to at least travel to the Gulf in order to see a sunset over the ocean. Don't get me wrong, I love a beautiful sunrise, but during our adventures in California last year, we took as many opportunities to see the west coast sunsets as we could.
It's truly incredible how quickly time passes. It seems like just yesterday we were carefully placing Emet into his car seat for the first time, making sure every strap was adjusted perfectly for a safe drive home from the hospital. We quickly learned that Emet has a love for the thrilling and exciting. He loves the feeling of being thrown in the air and safely landing in the arms of Calvin and me. This picture captures a wonderful moment that encapsulates an even larger feature of Emet's little personality. These moments go by so quickly. I'm grateful for the ability to freeze these special moments and revisit them over and over again.
There was a certain magic in the air as we walked down the shore of Laguna Beach. It was a unique balance of busyness and calm. There were so many beautiful homes, each with their own story to tell. The ever constant and steady noise of the waves crashing against the shore was the only sound to be heard. The sand was cool on our feet as we walked down the beach soaking in every second. The brisk ocean air had a unique sweet and fresh scent to it. Time seemed to stand still while we were there - but as the sun continued to go down, we were reminded that this wasn't the case.
What a gift time is. What a joy it is that we are able to create moments with those we love - moments that we can look back on for the rest of our lives with fondness and nostalgia. When I look at this photo I can still remember the feeling of Emet's sweet little hands holding onto my shoulder as he watched the tide quietly lapping on the shore, the coolness of his cheek from the sea breeze as I kissed him, the feeling of overwhelming love for my family and being able to spend time together.
We loved our time walking down the shore of Laguna Beach. It was a magnificently beautiful experience. I'm thankful for moments like these, that cause you to pause and reflect of the beauty that's right in front of me every day.
| Credits: Author - Jacintha Payne; Photography - Calvin and Jacintha Payne |