This photo relates to the theme of "Investigation" because it captures my 1 year old nephew investigating the beach. This was his first time at the beach so everything about the environment was new to him, from the sand to the waves to the birds. He seemed to love the birds, but also seemed a little scared at the same time. He at first thought about walking into the water, but decided to test his toes and little fingers first. As he did this, he looked back at me and waved me to come closer as he smiled. He investigated how the tides come in and out and how he needed to run quickly back and forth to avoid getting too wet. I was so impressed by how quickly he learned and how brave he was. He didn't cry and wanted to explore on his own.

Even though my nephew is too young to speak for himself, he is a smart kid and I know he understands what I am saying to him. During the car ride to the beach, I explained to him the importance of taking risks. I believe that if you don't take risks in life, you will not fully experience life. My nephew nodded and smiled at me and I knew that he understood my advice. When I saw him actually take a risk that day by touching the ocean, it made me so happy and fulfilled to know that he really did hear me in the car.