We got to the dock at half past six. In the distance, the rising sun began to paint the silhouette of the pine tops orange, while the bayou’s marsh grass gave off a silvery sheen. Pelicans glided effortlessly overhead amid the background song of a mockingbird, welcoming the start of the day. The wind was quiet but the air brisk. Everything seemed to bounce with anticipation. Mug pressed to my lips, maybe this was just my coffee talking.