Surf's Up!

Wow--I just had the thrill of a lifetime. Thanks to my sweet friend Rachel, one of my life long dreams came true today: I learned to surf. And it was glorious. Me, Rach, Bobby, his sister Rachael and her fiance Marshall, headed out to Emma Wood beach in Ventura to catch some waves. It could not have been more perfect. Bobby "The Master" patiently and expertly showed me the ropes, while Rachel glided off capably with her short board [well, half capably...;)]. Everything was a blast, from the adrenaline of feeling your first wave approaching and the rush to catch it, to getting the board knocked up in the air and having your nasal passages infused with ocean water. I'm already sore, and definitely expect to some gnarly bruises tomorrow--but I'm totally stoked on that. :)



We stayed out until sunset, and boy, did my Father paint a lovely scene tonight. Hot pink hues lit up the sky, then turned rosy when reflected in the teal water. As the sun began to say it's goodbye for the night, Rach and I stopped to bid it adieu. As my neon yellow board floated amidst the soothing rythym of the waves, my eyes took in the grandeur of burning orange sunlight shooting over the rugged, stately mountains lining the coast. Moments later it disappeared, leaving a few remnants lingering in the clouds. Like I said, perfect.

These pictures were taken with my phone, so it doesn't even come close to doing the display justice, but then again, God is so glorious, I don't think anything really can. I love Him. :D

Oxnard

My friend Kay and I did an impromptu Von's run for dinner then, armed with Lunchables, Pringles, and chocolate, headed to the coast. We meandered onto the quarry at Oxnard Harbor just as the sun was settling into it's covers for the night.

{A new first for me--drinking yogurt through a straw. :) }

Kay experienced a "first" as well. As we sat on a bench enjoying conversation about England, traveling, and friendship, two dolphins glided gracefully through the water just in our line of sight. Being from Manchester, you don't see dolphins in your backyard everyday, so Kay was nearly beside herself with excitement, and like a little girl she could barely conceal her delight. :)

Summer Nights

The other night our homegroup from my church Reality got together for an in-between-sessions summer reunion. We had smores, sweet worship around the bonfire, laughter, and the kind of fellowship that only comes from being in Christ.

The Brent Street crew, led by Billy and Jorai Hunter, has had a huge impact on my life since moving to SoCal. The Hunters and others in the group have continually been a solid source of encouragement, wisdom, and support.

I love family. :)