When you take toddlers and younger kids to the beach, you have to be completely in control of them. You hold their hand, stand in the water with them, do what they do.

But as the kids grow older and gain confidence and skills in the ocean, there comes a time when you have to let them go out on their own, especially when they're on a board.

And it's stressful!

I am regularly that parent standing on the water's edge, particularly when it's not summer (I am someone who carries a cardigan in 30 degree heat).

Back in April, I took my son to the beach for an afternoon swim. As I stood watching him (he was having a great time by the way), I noticed this woman standing near me doing exactly the same thing. There was this beautiful, golden afternoon light and she looked so beachy with her blond hair and tan. I snapped a pic of her with the intent of making a painting.

There were other people in the water that day but I only included one (my son) in the painting. I moved him from the left to the right to make the painting more interesting.

I really like this scene and I feel it's one so many parents can relate to. I'll probably paint this again one day. It's good practice!