Rain, rain go away?

Every year, it seems as though it rains during the MS 150 bike ride that takes cyclists from Houston to Austin to raise money for the Multiple Sclerosis Society. I didn't sign up this year, but I have friends who have. I just heard on TV that ride organizers decided to cancel the first day of the two-day ride. This is the first time in the ride's 20+-year history that a cancellation has ever taken place, even if it is only one day. Hopefully, though, they can have a wonderful second day, despite weather forecasts that state while the weather will be clear, the wind will be strong out of the north -- straight into the cyclists' face. Of course, it's still better than messy rain. I was hoping to get a ride in myself on Saturday, but it doesn't look like that will be happening. I'll have to go to spin class instead. I have to keep training to stay in shape for surfing, which I hope to start again soon.

After a few calls today, I got a hold of a "certified" surfing instructor. One of the first shops I called said their instructor couldn't give lessons now and they recommended someone else. I called and left a message and when he called back, I set up my first lesson with him for next Friday. After a brief discussion with Brian and his reference to me as "dude" a few times, I felt quite excited about meeting with him. He said he would call me on Thursday to confirm our session, which is dependent of course on the weather and tide. He suggested I wear a spring suit or bikini bottoms and a spring suit top. Brian said people were always surprised by how cold the Gulf is this time of year. I'm definitely looking forward to finding out! And, he can call me dude as many times as he wants.

surfing in Australia?

Now that I've posted info about my surfing experiences, I have quite a few friends sending me e-mails about their surfing experiences, including great places to surf. I'm also noticing photos of surfers, wave reports and vacation hotspots perfect for surfers of all experience levels. For instance, my friend Diane just sent me photos that she recently took of Manly Beach in Australia. She was there on an extended flight attendant layover. The photos included several of the waves and surfers in all stages of the surf finding the right wave. I've never heard of Manly Beach (although the name is certainly intriguing).

I also received an eLetter that I recently joined that includes surf products. I don't really remember how I signed up for it, but I am enjoying it. The eNote usually includes photos of boards and surfers and waves. It also includes links to products. Although I don't always click on the links or read the posts, I do like the pictures; it gives me insight into the surfing world.

The waves are definitely calling my name.