Sam had been waiting all summer for this day. The family was finally going to the beach! Sam had packed everything the night before: swimsuit, towel, sunscreen, and a bucket for collecting seashells.
When they arrived at the beach, Sam's little brother ran straight toward the water. Mom called out, 'Wait! We need to put on sunscreen first and stay where I can see you!' Sam helped apply sunscreen to everyone, especially making sure little brother's back was covered.
After building an impressive sandcastle with turrets and a moat, Sam noticed an old woman walking slowly along the shore, looking at the ground. Sam went over to ask if she needed help.
'I'm looking for sea glass,' the woman explained. 'They're pieces of glass that the ocean has made smooth and beautiful.' She showed Sam her collection: blue, green, and clear pieces that sparkled like jewels.
Sam spent the rest of the afternoon helping the woman find sea glass. By sunset, they had found several beautiful pieces. The woman gave Sam a blue piece as a thank you. Sam kept it as a reminder that sometimes the best part of a day is helping someone else.