The night’s cool ocean breeze is a perfect compliment to the full moon and the stars. We gaze up at the moon, it feels like there is no one else on earth but us. For the moment we are alone. The ocean, the moon, the stars, the sky, and us. The waves crash to shore slamming against the rocks. The power of the ocean is clear to us. The power of the ocean is not only frightening but awe inspiring.

During this peaceful moment of meditation with the natural world, we realize we are not alone. There is something else out in the water. Their dark silhouettes and shadows dance upon the waves like mystical figures engaged in some ancient dance. We can just barley make out the figures.

My mind tries to decipher what or who these figures are. The feeling of solitude is gone.

“What’s up dude, ” Says the surfer with a smile. All we can do is smile back.

It wasn’t until much later I learned this area of ocean near the border of Capitola and Santa Cruz is known as “The Hook” It’s one of the most famous surf spots in Northern California. “The Hook” is a place for experienced surfers. It’s the surf spot where O’Neil, the inventor of the wetsuit, lost an eye while experimenting with leashes for surf boards.

I also didn’t know I would be returning to “The Hook” a month later. To attempt to surf this very spot.

*Stay tuned for more about my surfing adventures, in following posts.