Ocean Beach Day Posted on Thursday, August 20, 2009 |

Yesterday, Amy and I ventured down to Ocean Beach to check out the surf, sand, and the weather. We were treated to bluebird skies with warm sun (but not east coast humidity) with a relaxed atmosphere. My past beach experiences in Bethany have prepared me to deal with loud and obnoxious beach goers who sit right on top of you; instead in OB, there was plenty of room and everyone is quietly relaxing and enjoying the glorious weather. Well, save for the two children whose genius of a parent who rewarded them with whistle lollipops. Think nails on a chalkboard annoying as I was attempting to soak up the California sun. Anyways, I finally swam in the Pacific for the first time since 2006. Water was cold, but I quickly acclimated and swam out past the breakers. The only drawback? Navigating between the endless strands of seaweed that feel oh so creepy as you swim by them. But the view was totally worth it--the pier to the left, all of the northern beaches to the right.

After a great swim, Amy had mentioned to me that Ocean Beach has a huge Farmer's Market every Wednesday. I had only ever been to Charlottesville's before, but had never purchased anything. I was in for a treat; so much fresh and fragrant produce, fish, and flowers. Free samples everywhere, we tried so many things: ceviche, tomatoes, hummus, veggie smoothies, guacamole, pesto, and so much more. There's not only food there: jewelry, pictures, stationery, musicians, etc.

An excellent day all around, today was more of a cleaning up/doing errands but ended with a nice surprise. The Community Supported Agriculture Farm we joined, Seabreeze Farm delivered its first installment. Included: salad greens with edible flowers, alfalfa sprouts, corn, tomatillos, grapefruit, grapes, one pear, a cantaloupe, scallions, 2 heads of lettuce, carrots, and a bouquet of fresh flowers. Using some of these, we made white bean chicken chili--I'll give credit to Amy on this one; she found the recipe and had the idea to join the CSA. Eating organic food from local farms is better for the environment, but the economy as well. Join one today!

I'm getting faster internet (plus wireless!!) tomorrow so i will be able to put up entries and pictures a lot quicker. Tomorrow I'm going to explore Encinitas, a surfing mecca to the north followed by kayaking in La Jolla on Saturday. Woohoo!