The squawking of a gull breaks the surf's cadence. Off-shore, a pod of dolphins hug the coast. One breaches, then splashes into the deep. An elderly couple strolls past, arm in arm. Their sweetness makes my heart ache. Moments later, only footprints remain. The tide will erase them soon. In the night cooled sand, I sit. My face caressed by the salty breeze. In the horizon, the sun has begun to blossom.

"Mind if I enjoy this with you, Katie?" "You're just in time, mom." The sun ballooned. Blue prisms bounced off the glassy water. In that moment, another dolphin soared above the waves glinting in the first morning light. In the far distance, a fleet of marlin boats raced towards daybreak. Over-head, a majestic sea eagle soars.

"I'm so glad you decided to join me, mom." As if for the first time, I studied this woman who had given birth to me. A shock to see the damages of time. I closed my eyes. Vivid images of the past taunted me. My mother youthful; beautiful; ageless. Her voice coaxing me into the ocean. Her laughter contagious. Where had time gone? At that moment, I vowed to make memories not just relive them.

The next morning, my father joined us. The day after, my husband conceded. My daughter remains obstinate. Time is of no concern to her. I understand. I also know there will come a time when she will embrace our new tradition. It is one we will enjoy as long as God and time allows.