The foam came up to my toes and I wiggled them in the cold water. The salty sea air swirled around me, creating gusts of warmth.

I looked over at my little girl, Bri, and smiled. She looked so happy. So pure and naive. I hope I’ll keep her that way for a little while.

Bri ran up and down along the surf line, jumping into the tiny waves one after another, and running back up the shore when they got to close to her little plaid dress. I laughed at her funny expressions.

She looked over at me, and she grinned, her missing top teeth showing through.

She ran towards me, up the sandy beach, tripping and laughing, her bare feet making tiny footprints in the sand. I caught her up just as she got to me, and twirled her around. I tickled her mercilessly, and she laughed hysterically. I wrapped her in a hug.

She looked up at me, giggling and happy, and I felt so at peace. It’s good to know you can bring up a beautiful, whole child in a world like ours.