Did you spend your July 4th on the water? I have memories of boating on pontoons and motor boats on the lake in Minnesota. Lake life is a beloved summer tradition in the state, after all. But until recently, I’d never been on a sailboat.

When I got invited to go sailing in the Bay Area, I was reluctant to go at first. Mostly this was because my dad told me what a bone-chillingly cold experience sailing the Bay can be. Luckily I had an experienced racing crew to take me and I was able to borrow a windbreaker, waterproof overalls, and dinghy shoes (a type of soft rubber boot). I added a flamingo print scarf and lots of layers so I wasn’t cold at all my first time sailing. Just to prove that it happened, here’s all my gear. Not my finest outfit of the day, but sometimes practicality is called for.

The race was intense because boats can come within feet of each other on the course. I wasn’t prepared for how the boat tipped precariously while turning. But the crew assured me that the vessel’s heavy bottom kept it from capsizing, unlike a dinghy we saw overturned completely (everyone was okay).

Sailing at sunset past the Bay Bridge, I felt connected to nature in a whole new way. We were free, gliding on wind and water with the seagulls into the dusk. Sailing is very much a here-and-now experience. There’s no checking your phone or dwelling on the past or future–there’s only time to focus on working with your teammates on what needs to be done right now.

When we docked back in Redwood City (pictured above), there was a great sense of camaraderie between all the teams as they shared sailing stories over dinner at the yacht club. I was glad I experienced something new, and grateful to the kindness of the boat crew for taking me in for my first time sailing. Having resources to help you on new boating adventures makes all the difference! Here are some enjoyable links for beginning to advanced boaters:

Discover Boating Resources

Helpful boating videos, including how to tie knots and boating communication basics.

Kids can learn skills for a lifetime of boating. Just pop in your zip code to find youth program resources in your area.

Find boating opportunities near you.

Take a fun and interactive questionnaire to discover a watercraft right for your lifestyle and budget.

(And read more about my San Francisco discoveries here.)

This post includes affiliate links, from which I receive a tiny paper doll-sized commission if readers follow through with a purchase.

Whether she is an avid world traveler or a homebody with big dreams, travel-themed gifts are a fun way to show the mom in your life that she means the world to you.

If you can’t give her a trip to her favorite destination, get her something that reminds her of it! She’ll be reminded of a special place and a special person (you!) so it’s a win all around. On the other hand, if you ARE gifting plane tickets or a promise to drive to your favorite seaside getaway this summer, choose an adorable destination-inspired gift to help you announce the big surprise. Either way, these travel themed mother’s day gifts are fun to give and receive!

1. Airmail Jewelry Organizer

Airmail is an ultra adorable travel-themed touch. I still fondly remember and miss my Kate Spade airmail iPhone 4 case from 2012! For home or travel, jewelry organizers are always a useful gift.

2. Paris Skirt

Bonjour, mom’s new favorite skirt! Enchanté. With a view of the Eiffel tower and Sacre Coeur on the skyline, this skirt is practically like taking a trip to Paris. Add macarons for the perfect present pairing.

3. Hot Air Balloons Weekend Bag

Remind her of Albuquerque’s International Balloon Fiesta with a cute bag that will come in useful for weekends in the southwest or really anywhere.

4. Artsy Wallet

Keep all travel receipts and documents organized in a pretty wallet. The motifs on this remind me of hand painted Mexican pottery.

5. Tropical Beach Tote

You can’t go wrong with pink and palm trees, especially if mom loves L.A. or Palm Beach!

6. Camera Necklace

Now she can play tourist whenever she feels like it, with a cute camera around her neck. I have a camera charm necklace of my own and it’s one of my favorites–a great conversation starter.

7. Map Necklace

For the globe trotter, this gorgeous statement necklace brings the freedom of the open road to any outfit mom wants to wear. Bonus, you can borrow it from her when she’s not wearing it.

8. London Earrings

For the London lover, these earrings are fit for Queen Mom. Serve her a Mother’s Day tea to go with it!

9. Juicy Stationary

As charming as postcards from a tropical vacation, these note cards are reminiscent of family picnics, summer vacations and Hawaiian getaways.

10. Be Adventurous

From the Rockies to the Alps, this rustic framed print reminds us that there are always new horizons to explore.

Happy Mother’s Day!