Texas is about to move from spring to summer. It's a little muggier than it has been so far this year. Up until now, we've enjoyed milder temps and a little rain. But things changed this last week. Humidity is higher as are the warm temps. Usually, the winds have calmed a little by May, but this year, they are blowing hard and strong. Of course, that means that the water in the Gulf is being tossed about like it is in a blender. It has been incredibly choppy lately and this past weekend was no different. The forecast showed decent sized waves, but they lacked form. That wasn't stopping some of the regular surfers. Beginning last Friday, I was seeing and reading online about all the surfers going out. I could see the line-up. The truly gifted surfers were whipping in and out of the waves, making the mushy waves look like perfect lines and, not only that, they were all just in suits -- not wetsuits necessary. Just watching them on the cam made me realize I would need to go surfing over the weekend. Since it was Mother's Day weekend, I had a feeling that getting out on Sunday would be difficult. Not only would I have family activities with my mom, but it would also be crowded on the beach. As for crowds, Saturday wasn't much better. I know, because that was when I decided to go out.
 |
This photo is an old one, but reflects
what the waves have looked like
lately…very choppy! |
I had a bicycle ride early Saturday and fought the same wind that was churning the waves. When I finished my 48 miles, relaxed and watched other surfers catching waves on the webcams, I decided that I needed to make a trip. I was so glad I did. Because of the wind, I took "Sunshine," the 8'1" board. I haven't been out on the McTavish for a while. But, I knew that carrying any of the boards in the crazy wind would not be easy -- the smaller the better. The paddle-out was rough, but I made it to the outside, and remembered what I liked about the board. About four or five other surfers were already on the outside. I spoke with one of the surfers, and he said that it was absolutely necessary to catch these waves before they broke. Of course, as soon as he said that I saw a wave coming and started paddling. I caught it, stumbled on my pop-up because of the smaller board and surfed left. I eventually fell off. That would be my ride for the day. I had one more short pop-up/ride, but, basically, I just paddled around. And, that was okay. I had fun, and got reacquainted with my board. I stayed out a little over an hour before I had to pack up. I was keeping my fingers crossed that I might be able to make it back out on Sunday. But, alas, my Mother's Day schedule was just too tight to squeeze in a quick trip to G-town. I'm hoping to make it down one night after work, but with the weather forecast so dismal, I may not get to make it down. Keeping my fingers crossed for next weekend. Here's hoping!!!
