A Mother's Heartfelt Love Letter to the Beach: Gratitude Amid Quarantine

As we approach a unique Mother's Day celebrated mostly at home, I've reflected deeply on my journey as a mother during the COVID-19 pandemic. Like families worldwide, our quarantine life has been a rollercoaster of cherished family moments, anxious nights, boredom, creativity, frustration, exhaustion, and more. We've had magical days—my oldest learning to bike, cooking mornings with my youngest, or sunny afternoons with the baby napping nearby. Yet, there have been equally challenging times. Reflecting on these past eight weeks, I'm overwhelmed with gratitude for living so close to the beach.

I realize how fortunate we are to have the Atlantic Ocean nearby—the scent of salt and sunscreen, sand underfoot, children's squeals as they race to the waves amid seagulls. Many of you have joined us virtually on Facebook for these outings. Sometimes the kids cooperate; other times, not. I often wonder if my profound relief and gratitude shine through in our videos. As my husband and sons share sweet notes this Mother's Day, here's my letter to the beach—the sanctuary that preserved my sanity these past two months.

Dear beautiful, expansive, perfect beach:

Thank you for lulling my four-month-old to sleep with your soothing waves.

Thank you for embracing and channeling the endless energy of my two- and five-year-olds, every time.

Thank you for providing a safe, clean space for my children to dance, scream, explore, and play make-believe.

Thank you for doubling as our kitchen table, hosting countless snacks, sandwiches, and juice boxes.

Thank you for sparking laughter as cool water tickles tiny toes and fish dart by.

Thank you for the treasures you deliver from the sea, inspiring lessons, learning, and family connection.

Thank you for space to exercise—swimming, running, walking, digging, crawling, hauling, and more.

Thank you for sunrises, sunsets, and midday light that lift our spirits, soothe our senses, bolster immunity, and promise new beginnings.

Thank you for your constancy—a refreshing sameness amid rapid world changes.

Sincerely,

A grateful mama