
December 11
Juniper’s First Spearfishing Adventure

Juniper, one of my favorite memories is the first time I took you spearfishing in St. Thomas. I had found a kid-sized pole spear just for you, and the two of us headed out together to try and catch some supper. We swam around a small boat wreck with the sunlight cutting through the water in bright beams, and before long we had a small blue jack on the end of the pole. You floated beside me, steady and calm, watching everything with this focused, curious confidence that always makes me proud.
Then a little shark drifted in to check us out. You did not panic for a second. You were excited, pointing and smiling through your mask like it was the coolest thing you had ever seen. I will never forget that moment. I was so proud of you, watching your courage show up so naturally and seeing you grow brave right in front of me.

