As a mom, one of the greatest gifts I can give my kids is my time.
Before Andre left for the U.S. Army, we checked something off all of our bucket lists together—a 9-hour deep sea fishing trip out of Cape Canaveral. We boarded at 7:30 a.m., traveled nearly two hours into the Atlantic, and spent the day fishing waters 80–110 feet deep before finally returning to the dock at 5 p.m.
None of us had ever experienced anything like it.
The ocean seemed endless. The views were unreal. Between catches, we cooled off in the air-conditioned cabin, grabbed fresh food made to order, laughed, talked, and simply enjoyed being together. Those conversations are the ones I’ll carry with me the longest.
My boys have always loved fishing, and I’ve always believed that loving your children means stepping into their world. Whether it’s standing on the sidelines, sitting in the bleachers, learning a new hobby, or spending an entire day in the middle of the ocean—I want them to know their mom was all in.
Looking back now, knowing Andre is serving our country, this day means even more than I could’ve imagined. What felt like just another family adventure became one of our last mother-son memories before he put on the uniform.
Time really is the greatest investment you’ll ever make in your children. The fish were just a bonus.
“Her children arise and call her blessed.” — Proverbs 31:28 ❤️
Spending quality time with your children creates lasting memories that deeply enrich family bonds. From my own experience, dedicating a whole day to an immersive activity like deep sea fishing can do more than just entertain—it builds trust, opens communication, and strengthens emotional connections. The ocean's vastness provides a perfect backdrop for meaningful conversations and shared laughs away from everyday distractions. Deep sea fishing, specifically in areas with water depths of 80-110 feet like off Cape Canaveral, offers a unique chance to engage with nature and learn patience and teamwork. Such experiences encourage children to step outside their comfort zones and share interests with their parents. I found that embracing my kids' hobbies and making an effort to participate fully gave them confidence and made them feel valued. This type of quality time investment is particularly powerful when a child is about to face major life changes, such as joining the military. It anchors relationships with cherished memories that both parent and child can carry forward with pride. In fact, studies show that parental involvement in activities children love can improve their emotional resilience and sense of security. For parents looking to create special moments, consider activities that allow uninterrupted interaction and enjoyment—whether it’s fishing, camping, or any shared hobby. These experiences nurture mutual respect and understanding, helping children grow with the assurance that their parents are fully present for them.