Before paddling out, we held hands. Not to be overly romantic—just to make sure: “Ready?” The ocean ahead looked calm, but we knew what was coming—falls, little moments of panic, and loud, carefree laughter. We laughed out of surprise, out of failure, and because falling together somehow made it funnier. Every time we climbed back onto the board, there was always a small glance: “You okay?” A quick nod was all it took to feel brave again. Then came a cleaner wave. We stood—only for a moment. Long enough to realize this wasn’t about technique or looking cool. It was about the moment. About sharing nervousness, sharing laughter, and sharing a story we’d remember for a long time. That day, we went home with sore bodies and full hearts. Because surfing with your partner isn’t about who stands the longest— it’s about holding hands before paddling out, and the smiles that always come after the fall 🌊