Sunday, September 18, 2011

Surfing on air

Friday was a bust this week! I spoke to my super surfing dude Brian at my usual time Friday afternoon and found out that, while there were waves, the current was really bad due to a strong east wind. I really wanted to surf since I wasn't going to be able to surf on Sunday. (More on that later.) I contemplated going down on Saturday after my early morning run and ride. I ran my seven miles and rode 45 miles, and was quite tired when I finished. However, if my Saturday morning call from Brian would have included a more positive outlook on the waves, I would have definitely headed down. He said it was choppy and windy. He also said some of my regular surfing buddies were down though. But, since they had all already left the beach, and conditions weren't great, I opted out on Saturday too.

Sunday was beginning of a whole new experience for me. The reason I was going to miss surfing is because I was going skydiving. It had always been something that I had wanted to do, especially when I was much younger. I had realized lately, though, that if I didn't do it soon, I was going to chicken out. I had mentioned my dream of skydiving at a family party this summer and two of my brothers-in-law had said they wanted to go with me. As fall approached, it became obvious that they wouldn't be able to go, since one had work conflicts and the other had back surgery. But, another old friend invited me along. So, that's what I did today. The experience was incredible! I was, literally, surfing on air. Watching my video was eye-opening. I know I have much to learn about skydiving. I've already committed to doing it again. However, I must admit that adding another hobby to my list will make my crowded schedule even more unmanageable. I'll have to think about that. I just can't imagine, though, not living my life to its fullest.