Gliding through the waves like the boat has wheels
We push home, through the comforting hugs of the evening swells.
My feet dangle and sway
Back and forth over the bow, moving with the rhythm of the waves.
Small sprays sweep up and lick my toes.
I giggle.
Tempted, I point my feet and stretch my legs out over the edge,
Trying to feel as much of the warm ocean water as I can wash over my feet.
The higher the swell, the harder the boat crashes down over the water, making sprays of salt water reach up to my knees.
Gripping the side nets,
Safe in the arms of the boat
Safe in the familiar stare of those who watch from the stern
I twist to look at my parents.
Tiny strands stick to the sides of her face
And his skin is red and leathered from wind burn.
Proudly they watch me
This is my playground.
