it's always ourselves we find in the sea.

"for whatever we lose (like a you or a me) it's always ourselves we find in the sea." 

- e.e. cummings

Last weekend, Jordan and I joined my dad's side of the family for some much-needed rest and relaxation in Ellijay, Georgia. The home our families rented sat right next to a slow-moving river; the sounds alone were enough to put even the crankiest baby to sleep. As I sat with toes in the water, watching as kayakers and tubers made their way through the shallow waters, I thought: This is the life.

I often feel that way on the vacations we take; I become attached to the places we visit, and I envision what they could be if I were to ever call them "home." Boston, Newport, Savannah, Chicago, Florence. I love all of these cities.

But there is something about the water that rejuvenates me, calms me, brings me back to who I am called to be.

Maybe it's the sounds, the rushing waves, the babbling brooks. Maybe it's the different, simpler way of life found away from traffic and city skylines.

I think, though, that water itself has some healing properties, has the ability to calm and conquer fears and stresses. Our visits to places by the water are always my favorite, and they are the hardest places to leave. (Tybee Island, I'm looking at you.)

Jordan and I don't know what the future holds or where we'll be in the next few years. But I hope -- I really truly hope -- it is near water of some kind. I'm curious as to the type of person I would be if I were given a few months down by the water.

I have a feeling I'd be a happier, simpler, dreamier me.

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01 : By Carissa Gallo for Kinfolk Magazine

02 : Via Tickled Pickle

03 : By Braedon Flynn via Cup of Jo

04 : By Rachel Mcginn via Matchbook Magazine

05 : By Bahar Özdemir