I started following Mother Gypsea on Instagram about a year ago after seeing a mutual friend of ours share a post of hers and her #nobadwaves platform of community and positivity in our town of Ocean City, where she shares her laid back beach life with her four (amazing!) kids. Later, I learned that her real name is Sue McElwee after her Christmas tree beach display and large scale seashell creations went viral toward the end of last year. 2020 was brutal for so many people, and Sue’s creative project brought so much hope and happiness to this community. People came from far and wide during the pandemic winter to experience this little piece of magic at the beach for themselves. Sue and her kids collected shells from several local beach towns and left markers and shells for people to write their names, messages, and dreams, and North Street Beach became a frequent stop for us on our winter walks. Sometimes, it’s the simple ideas in life that make such a big impact, especially when done with love.

So although I had been following her and admiring her creativity and her mega-talented kids (surfing + skating), and messaging through Instagram, I hadn’t met her in person until just last week. When we were texting, she said “we usually head out the door by 5:30.” In THE MORNING. You know kids have a passion when they are willing to work hard and get up early to chase it. I remember years ago watching this commercial about moms and their Olympian kids, all the early mornings, the sacrifices, and the encouragement to get up every single time they fell down. Last year, Sue and her husband made their move to Ocean City permanent so their four kids can have the opportunity to surf (and skate) all year round. At 11 and 13, her older boys are incredibly talented at both sports and I had a blast getting to see them in the water. Even at the early hour and the unseasonably cold temperatures on this June morning. But the light was beautiful and the waves were good, so even though the boys were bundled on the sand, they had no hesitation to get into the water and do what they love. And not only are they talented, they are humble, kind, and easy to talk to. After their morning surf, it was donuts, back home, get the other kids and ride to the skate park with a beach afternoon to cap off our time together. I loved getting to know Sue and her family, and every time I photograph a family, I look for the little nuances that make up individual personalities and the relationships they have among one another. Nothing on earth is more beautiful than real life, and I’m honored to have photographed this family and share their story (and made some new friends in the process).

To keep up on all things Ocean City, surfing, skating, and community, go give her a follow!