A Love Letter to the Crystal Coast | Earth Day Reflections

There’s something sacred about the edge of land and sea—where salt clings to the air, time slows, and the tide reminds us to return, again and again.

Along the Crystal Coast of North Carolina, the shoreline feels like a sanctuary. Here, the mornings bloom soft with color, the wind speaks in hushes through the sea oats, and the waves come and go with the rhythm of breath.

These moments—captured on film—are my quiet love letters to this place. A sailboat resting on still waters. Pelicans floating through the sky like scripture. Cherry blossoms unfurling in warm spring light. Waves crashing against the old rocks as if the earth itself is exhaling.

In Emerald Isle, where golden dunes meet endless blue, and in the charming coastal town of Beaufort, where history drapes itself in salt and sun, I’ve found so many of these sacred moments. Places that remind me how wildly beautiful and tender our earth can be.

This Earth Day, I’m holding deep gratitude for this stretch of shoreline that feels like home. For the fragile beauty of this coast, and the quiet way it teaches us to slow down, look closer, and live with care.

May we tread softly, love deeply, and protect what we cannot replace.

All images captured on 35mm film, here on the coast I love most.