Cloudy With a Sunny Disposition

I left the house at 7:15 this morning. The skies are overcast but I want to say there is a sunny disposition in the air. The clouds feel thin and I can see shades of blue on the other side. I have a sense this could all burn off soon, but I have learned that sense can be deceptive. For all I know it will hail soon.

I pass Doheny on the way and see a nice set of waves rolling in. The surf report was a little on the dismal side but did say there was some fair sized waves if you can wait long enough for them. Maybe I just so happen to be passing by after the wait.

When I get to the parking lot, the blue hue through the clouds feels stronger and it is pleasantly warm.

When I get a view of the beach at the top of the asphalt, I can see a few swimmers starting on their trek to Salt Creek - must be the usual Sunday morning crew I often see.

Once I’m on the sand, the water feels warm - warmer than yesterday I’d say - at least on my feet.

Since I haven’t been bringing my pack down lately, I have not been frequenting the rocks at the bottom of the bluff. I am looking up in that direction and noticing how high the sand is now. One rock has what looks like a hole drilled through it. That rock was head high not too long ago and now it is probably knee high.

There was a decent set of waves coming in that I could see from the ramp above but it has been pretty flat since then.

I head out into the water, dive beneath a wave and make my way out west. The initial coolness seems to just swoosh from head to foot and is quickly long gone. This is absolutely the most comfortable swim so far this season.

The water is smoother than yesterday but there is still a northbound current I seem to be swimming against - not particularly strong.

Despite these clouds, it is such a lovely morning here. I feel like I can swim forever. If someone gave me a temperature dial for the water, I wouldn’t move it one bit. It’s gotta be close to 68 maybe. It’s just perfect.

I came to the water with a bit of self loathing and I think when I am done here this is where it will stay.

As I move northward I occasionally look ahead towards Salt Creek. Not only do I take photos with my camera but I’m taking mental photos that etch themselves into my mind that I hold with me hours after the swim.

Once at my northern terminus, I’m overtaken by the beauty and warmth of the water and the calm and peace that saturate the air all around me.

I finish up and enjoy the walk up the stairs. The air is so pleasant. After I rinse off in the parking lot and change into clothes for church, I feel no desire for a sweater. Usually, even in the milder water of June, my core temperature dips for a little bit and I want a sweatshirt for church. Not today.