Shopping at High Speeds

Fast shopping is sometimes the best way to get what you need and move on to the next objective. Today we were about to leave OC when an outlet shopping center with a Gap came up on our right. Without much hesitation Jason pulled right in. He went straight to The Gap, because he's so particular and knows they usually carry his kind of clothes. I spotted a Bali and went right in knowing that my bra collection had been depleting. I tried on fiften or so and settled on four that fit just right. I think I was out of there and on my way to The Gap in about 35 minutes. Jason was doing great, finding a few sweaters and tee-shirts that he was much needing. I tried on a few sale items and fell in love with a couple of them.

All in all a very successful, fast-paced shopping trip accomplished in about an hour.

OC's Boardwalk

Ocean City's boardwalk is it's best feature. You really don't need to leave the area; everything you would like to eat, drink, or shop for is right at your disposal, especially if you're staying at a beachfront hotel. Walking the boardwalk can be very relaxing and can be a great source of exercise whether you're biking it, walking it, or jogging it. You can also rent cute bike buggies that you can ride with your friends or family. It's also great for people watching. It's clean with beautiful scenery. It's especially nice this time of the season when most folks are back to work and school, so the beach and boardwalk is a lot less crowded. I've had a very nice time at Ocean City and I'm not looking forward returning to my new career challenges. Thanks Lou and Karin for this wonderful break at a gorgeous location.

Floating in the Ocean

My Dad and I spent about an hour and a half or so floating in the Atlantic yesterday afternoon. What a way to spend a day. Floating in sea water is somehow even more relaxing than floating in a pool. Is it the extra buoyancy that salt water provides or is it just the fact that you're floating out a distance from civilization, surrounded by raw nature (and probably a little bit of raw sewage...but you ignore that bit.)

When I was a kid I loved playing in the waves. Getting clobbered by the big waves, the bigger the better, was the ultimate ocean experience. At some point though, when I got old enough to appreciate what medical waste spills and shark attacks were, I lost that fascination with the ocean. My love for the waves was replaced by a palpable fear, and I spent 15 years or so avoiding the ocean like a plague. Finally in my twenties I went with the family on a beach weekend and talked myself into braving the surf.

That was it. Fear defeated. I know there may be something nasty lurking below the surface, but I also know that encountering it is unlikely. The benefits outweigh the possible detractors. So now I'm back to being in love with the ocean.

My Birthday Cheer

I just want to thank the small but amazing group of people that contributed to my awesome birthday yesterday. It was a perfect day of fun, art, music, yummy food, wine, and especially laughter. I love you Lauren, Don, and Jason.

Also want to thank all the birthday shout outs I got through email, phone calls, and Facebook.

Now to continue the fun we're off to The Ren Fest and then Ocean City.