Sunlight pierces through the clouds, bouncing off the water, like golden glitter sprinkled on the waves. All week, I looked forward to paddle boarding on the lake with my friends. I focused on physics so I could score well on my test, I excelled at my English essay, and carefully planned my American Heritage Girls project. I knew if I was to be able to enjoy life on the boat, I was going to have to earn it. After my lake adventure, I dove into my physics assignment, hoping to get ahead for the week. I thought, “I should always have something to look forward to.”

Since childhood, I worked hard, and little moments of enjoyment followed. I remember planting flowers bigger than my hands in my backyard, yet I dug away at the earth. As the sun began to set I could hear the faint trilling of the ice cream truck. “Ice cream truck!” I exclaimed running to the front, with my little brother toddling behind. The ice cream was extra refreshing on my dry tongue, after a day in the dirt and sweat.

When we were a little older my family took a trip to enchanted rock and we were going to hike to the “tippy top.” First I struggled tying my hiking boots, then asked every five minutes, “Are we there yet?” The real challenge was the hike itself, but I pushed through, even climbing some of the rock formations on the way up. Though I complained, “I’m hungry,” “My feet hurt,” and “are we there yet,” I enjoyed every second of it. When we reached the top we celebrated with granola bars and I cartwheeled across the summit. I marveled at the breath-taking view.

Now older, I have embraced curiosity and responsibility, balancing band, writing articles for the school newspaper, and my job at the local pizza place. I always look forward to something, whether it is a party, a lake adventure, or just a bike ride to the farmers market. Lately I’ve been thinking about how this cycle of hard work and reward will play out in my adult life. I realised it will look much the same with new challenges and adventures. Perhaps it will be facing a final and celebrating with friends, or getting promoted and treating myself to  a new necklace, or simply waking up early to make strawberry pancakes.

I’ve always joked about my paddle board being “my private yacht.” It’s my escape for me, a way to unwind after a tough week. The warmth of the sun on my skin and the rhythm of the waves beneath my feet, fill me with joy. I am lucky to live in a town with a beautiful lake, where I can explore the luxury townhomes, the restaurants, shopping areas, or even the swamp. Whether fishing or soaking in the sun. I enjoyed peace alone or with friends. Paddleboarding teaches men responsibility, remembering the essentials like water, waterproof shoes and most importantly, sunscreen. It’s fun, but it also helps me grow as a more responsible adult. The lessons in preparedness continue to guide me as I find something to enjoy every day in my life.