Wetsuit Weather

Last Friday, I noticed on the surfing web page that I watch for the wave reports, that the water temp was in the low 60s. The air tenp was warm with highs in the high 70s and the low 80s, yet I kept thinking that the low 60s sounded cold for the water temps. I packed my 3-2 full wetsuit and my mid-length-sleeved springsuit so that I would have both just in case. Since my usual Galveston contact was in Costa Rica surfing, I called one of the local surf shops to ask about the surf. The guy who answered the phone said that as long as I had a longboard, I would have waves to surf. When I drove up to 43rd, I noticed no one else was out.  However, I saw a few waves coming in and quickly put on the suit and went out on the east side of the jetty. I paddled for waves, but I just didn't have the timing or the power to catch any. I opted to go to the west side. I caught a couple, but still struggled some. I had fun, though. I'm glad I went out, but I hadn't surfed solo in a very long time.

Sunday brought decent
waves to the 43rd Street jetty 

By Sunday, the waves were a little stronger and better formed. I made my way down to 43rd about 11 a.m., and noticed I wouldn't be alone this time. Tons of surfers were out. I paddled out in the rip current and took my place in the line-up. I paddled for my first wave and caught it. Had a great ride, paddled back out and then missed a few waves. Not all the waves had enough power, but because I'm not skilled enough to know the difference, I paddled for many that just weren't forceful enough to lift me up. I wasn't disappointed though. I caught several and had a ball. Some of the waves I caught took me on quick, fun rides. I loved it. When those rides take place, I remember why I enjoy surfing so much. It is an incredible feeling...one that I hope to continue having for the rest of my life. What a great way to spend a Friday afternoon! I know I still have so much to learn when it comes to surfing, but I like that every time I manage to catch a ride, I feel like a pro. It's a fabulous feeling.

I'm hoping to go somewhere warm in December. I'm currently pricing trips to several Central American  and Mexican surfing destinations. Hmmm...where should I go?