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June 25, 2006
Surfing Lesson #1
I had the most wonderful early birthday surprise today... my first surfboard! An 8' soft top perfect for a beginner of my height, and it came with my first lesson so I had a chance to try it out.
The first thing I learned is this: the ocean is a whole lot bigger than me. Sure you always know that looking at the ocean, and sure you get some sense of that when you swim or boogie board, but there's nothing like a good wipeout to humble you. It was such a joy to be out there, an experience of surrendering to the waves. Now it's up to me to get into better shape so I can make good use of this board.
Isn't she a beauty? (That's the electric blue one, of course.)

Posted by Lisa at June 25, 2006 11:31 PM
Comments
Sweet! Someone obviously knows you and cares.
You reminded me of my fresh-out-of-college days at NASA down in Cocoa Beach, FL. I bought a used surf board - a big yellow one - and had a blast on it. The surf wasn't great, but I enjoyed it quite a bit. Whenever we visit a place and see surfers out on the water, waiting for a good wave, I easily recall the feelings. Great stuff!
Posted by: Matthew Cornell at June 26, 2006 05:36 AM
Lisa-- how fun! I loved my surfing lessons. The waves scared the bajeezus out of me sometimes but it was exhilarating when I would catch a wave. Happy Birthday.
Posted by: Kelly at June 26, 2006 10:04 AM
I agree -- it is the ultimate lesson in cooperation. Tremendous payoff when you do, and spectacular wipeouts when you loose balance. Much like implementing GTD in a highly dynamic environment.
Posted by: Robert at June 26, 2006 02:14 PM
I think I came to pretty much the same realization the first time I paddled out.
http://oowom.com/blog/broceanography/2006/06/learning_to_surf.html
Great to hear you're learning to surf. This day & age it's important to have an outlet that forces us to let go, keeps us close to nature, keeps us humble, and keeps us stoked in the process.
Stay wet!
Posted by: Kris at June 26, 2006 05:12 PM
Lisa, a belated Happy Birthday.
No surfing for me, as I can't swim. We do share birthdays, and it was good to see that you were as happy with your birthday gift and celebration as I was with mine.
Carolyn
Posted by: ceehjay at July 2, 2006 07:41 AM