Hiking To A Pirate Cave and Treasure Island Beach

I LOVE adventure! When I'm unable to go on vacations, I search for fun and unusual areas to explore around me. On Wednesday, I decided to visit a sea cave I'd never been to in Dana Point, CA. I had to research the tides first because it is only accessible at low tide.

The route required scrambling over rocks and boulders (1.2 miles round trip). I found myself picking up the pace, worried I wouldn't be able to make it to the cave and back out again before the water began to rise (this low tide was actually higher than normal at 3.65 ft.)
Not to be deterred I pressed on and wasn't disappointed.

The entrance was narrow and opened into a large cave with a beautiful view of crashing waves. I had the cave all to myself as the summer crowds have returned to school and work. There was an adjacent smaller cave that required going out into the water to get to. I chose to forego that one, knowing my time was short as the water began to pour into the cave I was in. While making my way back, I came upon a mom and her three children. She asked if I thought they could make it to the cave in time.
The adventurer inside me wanted to tell her, "Yes if you hurry!" But I knew that wasn't safe or realistic with her young children. I encouraged her to come back on another day when the tide was lower.

I then came upon a homeless man named Jeff (I wrote about this encounter on my "Bowl of Inspiration" Blog-click link on right to read).

I finally reached my car and headed home down Pacific Coast Hwy (which is always a beautiful drive.) While at a stop light, I noticed a sign for "Treasure Island Beach." I'd never been to this beach either, so I made a quick turn and headed down to check it out.

Woah...it was amazing (as you can see in the video). The cliff tunnel led me straight to the perfect writing spot atop a rock as water rushed all around me.
Talk about inspiration!

All in all it was an amazing day of firsts. And let me tell ya...adventure firsts are my all time favorite.

I hope you enjoy virtually exploring Southern California's beautiful coast.

Here's a Little Escape Today

It's almost the weekend and I wanted to give you a little something to look forward to...beach anyone?

Beach "Drum" Video For You!

Today after church I told my hubby I wanted to go down to the beach, grab a slice of my fav pizza & sit out in the pavilion area next to the pier and just relax. With all that's gone on, the beach just seems to fade all my stress away. It was a little breezy and the air was crisp, but it felt perfect. I don't know what it is about the beach...the crashing waves, palm trees, kites flying overhead, or just the general laid back environment that slows down the time, cares and worry's of life.

Today however was extra special. As we sat down, there were three guys who had brought various drums to have a beach jam session. The rhythmic beats of the drums adding to the calming feel of the crashing waves. As we ate, the group began to grow. Random people of all ages seemed to pop up out of nowhere & join in, adding more drum varieties, tambourines, and large shakers.

We finished eating & laid on the grass, staring up at the clouds, palm trees and pelicans gracefully soaring overhead. Allowing the music to eventually lull us away from all the built up tension. I told my hubby, "We haven't actually relaxed like this since Hawaii." It's strange how I live so close to the beach and don't take advantage of it. I'm going to make a point of enjoying it more.

As we left I recorded it to share with all of you. I didn't want you to miss out on the magic of the moment. Enjoy!

 

Out With The Old

Huntington Beach, CA., is no different than most cities, they have the "out with the old - in with the new mentality." That's why I find the few original homes/landmarks fascinating. The fact that one of the oldest buildings still standing is home to an antique shop is even more fitting.

Then as we were walking by, I noticed that a restoration has begun on the building right next to the antique shop. I understand that it's a "restoration" but it still takes away that historic feel.

pictures of the original home

the progress

I couldn't help but feel a little sad, seeing the tell tale signs that the quaint little shop will be next.

I'm sure many feel it's an eyesore, but I love it's symbolism of the city it once was. It still stands strong...minus the sea air torn paint.

With so much mansionization going on over the years...I hope this old place is left as is, but I'm not so sure!

a home directly across the street
valued @ appx. $3-4 million dollars

hotels, shopping & a miniature Santa around the corner

and down pacific coast hwy

I'm hoping my city will decide to maintain a few landmark's that represent the humble beginnings that is Huntington Beach.

the history...

Check Out the View

I was sitting on the couch as the sun was setting. At this particular time in the evening a glare comes through our sliding glass door, blinding us from the t.v. I jumped up to pull the blinds closed, when I saw this!

So I grabbed my camera & went outside...

These are the simple moments that make you stop & take notice.

Yes I'm spoiled...beach living makes daily life picturesque.

A Place To Give

We will be moving on April 3rd. We have soooo much stuff in our house after being here for 8 years. I was planning on selling some furniture and stuff on Craig's List. My husband said, "Why don't we donate it all instead."

To be honest, at first I thought, "Ya that's a good idea, but we could really use the money to help us with the cost of this move."

But the more I thought about it, he's right...we've been blessed with so much...too much. There are so many homeless families out there right now. It would be good to make a difference in some small way.

I decided to find someplace that will give directly to the families, not just a drop off center that ends up selling the stuff in their stores, but an actual shelter that helps people get back on their feet & into a place of their own.

I found the perfect place!

Orange Coast Interfaith Shelter

I printed up the info and then noticed that they also need volunteers. Once things settle down a little bit, I would love to help with the kids 1 night a week.

I've felt a pull on my heart for a while now to do something for others.

I want to encourage you all to seek out shelters in your area and see if you can make a difference in some way...we all have something to give.

Flip Flop Vs. The Wave-Prayer Request Tuesday

After you read my true FLIP FLOP vs. THE WAVE adventure on Sunday...leave your Prayer Request~It's Prayer Request Tuesday. There is no better way to start your week than releasing all your worries and cares. Turn them over to the Lord today and allow others to pray on your behalf.

THE FLIP FLOP Vs. THE WAVE
By: Lisa Petrarca

“Oh no! Not my brand new flip flops!” Carefully setting the sandals on the highest part of the mini sand cliff, away from the pounding surf. I stood with my feet in the water, waves crashing up, soaking my board shorts, as I struggled to keep my camera away from the massive spray that proceeded.

I left the house in the morning planning on having a great day at the beach watching the Hurley US Open of Surfing Competition. The crowd was packed close to the water, trying to catch a glimpse of the final top two surfers, our local HB boy, Brett Simpson and Mick Fanning from Australia.

The tide began to rise along with the size of the waves. I struggled to get a good shot, fighting the surf and crowd. Before I new it a gigantic wave hammered towards us. I held my camera straight up over my head, looking back to check on my shoes, watching them spin inside the churning water, unable to grab them, they were washed out to sea.



Five minutes later, one shiny silver sandal appeared in the sand. I rushed to grab it…I no longer cared about who won the competition or my pictures, I wanted my other flip flop. We searched and searched…the other one never turned up.

The sand was blazing hot, I ran to the trash can to throw away my one flip flop. Next I attempted to make it from one shaded area to another as my feet started to blister. I wanted to cry it hurt so bad! Finally I couldn’t take it anymore so my husband took off his large flip flops as we reached the scorching asphalt. I didn’t care how they looked…3 sizes to big! I was in pain and needed relief.

How many of us try to make it through life by ourselves? Handling all of our problems, finances, worries and cares alone. Saying, “I can do it, I’m a strong person, I don’t need anyone!” But the troubles mount, the pain begins to build, we can no longer cope with things alone. We need help, running for one shaded area after another…temporary relief.

Sadly, what we don’t realize is, just like my single flip flop, we are not meant to work alone. I could not make it across the mile long stretch of sand with one shoe, just as we cannot make it through this life without our Lord’s help. He sent His son, Jesus to be an example, to die for our sins and to teach us to turn to our Heavenly Father in prayer and supplication for EVERYTHING!

Don’t hop through life alone, He is waiting for you to ask for His help!

The engulfing waters threatened me, the deep surrounded me; seaweed was wrapped around my head. To the roots of the mountains I sank down; the earth beneath barred me in forever. But you brought my life up from the pit O Lord my God.
Jonah 2:5,6

Can You Help With A Wedding?

A friend of mine was just on the news trying to barter her services (babysitting, cleaning, sewing, mowing lawns) anything to help pay for her wedding. She is a full time nursing student who spent several years caring for her paralyzed (from meningitis) terminally ill mother, who recently passed away. She has been engaged for 9 years. Her wedding day has been put off due to her mothers illness, money, time and school.

She now wishes to finally marry the love of her life. She is offering her services on Craigslist to fulfill her dream, in exchange for a place to have her wedding, make up artist, hairstylist, flowers, photography, cake...all the wedding necessity's. If you are able to help with your services, please let me know and I will forward the information to her.

Be Sure To Read Her Story..She's AMAZING! Here are the links to the stories:

http://begbarterorbride.com/
http://cbs2.com/local/Kerry.Coryell.Beg.2.1094729.html
HER BLOG
http://www.ocregister.com/articles/kerry-says-wedding-2500769-mom-ago

I know there is so many caring, giving people out there who live in Southern California. If you think you or someone you know might be able to unselfishly help someone's dream come true, please let me know!

Celebrate, Reflect and Enjoy-4th of July

My family was all in Utah together for the 4th (we couldn't afford to go), but made the best of it here. It's always hard for us because it's the anniversary of my brother John's death. I usually start to get a little edgy and emotional the week leading up to the 4th. I try to make sure we have lots of plans, the busier I am the easier it is.

I decided to treat myself to a new bike this year...last year we were the Beverly Hillbilly's of OC with our crappy, squeaky, rusty bikes. I haven't had a brand new bike since I was 14 years old! I figured it was time...also I thought it would encourage me to get out and exercise more. I was going to get my usual boys beach cruiser in black, I'm such a tomboy that I don't usually like flashy. But I decided at the last minute to get a shiny purple and silver girl bike. What do ya think?


We rode down to the parade, stopped by to meet some friend's at a house party, but it was all adults and the little guys wanted to hang out with us for a while (we wont have very many years left of them wanting to be with the "parents" since they're 14 & 15. So we told them we'd be back later and rode around with the kids.

Anthony's sister's and all their kids ended up coming down and we met up with them, got some lunch and had a picnic at the park with them and some other friends who met up with us. The boys ended up leaving and me and Anthony headed home for a quick rest before we had to ride back down for the fireworks show.

I had to leave and go pick up Josh from work. I was sitting in the LONG line of cars waiting to turn, when a group of bikers came riding in between all the cars and some parked cars. Some girls were obviously drunk...one girl turned around to talk to her friends and ran smack into the back of a parked car and flipped over the top of her bike, denting the car. Okay now you are all going to know how mean I am...I LAUGHED so hard. I always do when someone trips or falls. I can't help it! I wasn't alone, all the other cars were yelling, honking and laughing too! I didn't feel as bad. She was okay, but she did a bike hit and run. The owner of the car came running out of the house party, but the girl was long gone. I'll take entertainment anyway I can get it.

When we got back down to the beach it was FREEZING. The little guys never came home and had only swim trunks and tank shirts. They were shivering and complaining...we brought them some jackets and I got these pics of them racing toward the backpack and then fighting with a friend for the warmest one.

Elijah, Adam & Friend racing to the backpack for sweatshirts.



The Boys fighting over the warmest sweatshirt.

Even Anthony was cold.






Crowd in the ampitheatre.

Crowds watching street performers.

More Crowds in the dreaded Out House line.

My hubby & me trying to stay warm.



Waiting for the fireworks to start.

YAY...FINALLY!

All in all it was a good day and I didn't even cry once...which was a first. We love and miss you John!

My brothers...John hugging Troy.

Teenagers,Graduation and Flab

I said goodbye to Jullien this morning as he heads off to New York meet with his agent at Red Model Mgmt and for several photo shoots and a fitting with Calvin Klein to possibly walk in his show or Prada's (see him on Models.com). He's been driving me crazy lately...when he gets nervous, he doesn't sleep and he gets edgy. We've been going at it all week, TEENAGERS! I was a little worried about letting him go, he missed school all last week because he was sick. So he has tons of work to make up, and now he is missing Friday-Wednesday. Graduation is on June 11th and it's coming down to the wire. He needs to keep his grades up!

Josh is doing a LOT better...he should be getting his license back at the end of this month. I'm SO happy about this because adding one more person to my daily "bus" schedule has been killing me. He also filled out all of his financial aid papers to start Cosmetology school. For those of you who just thought, "Oh he must be gay," he's not, but his cousin makes TONS of money as a hairstylist so he's all about the BIG BUCKS!LOL! He's working downtown at a punk clothing store and is happy to be getting his life back in order, me too! Thanks for ALL YOUR PRAYERS FOR HIM!

Elijah is doing great in school and track. He placed 2nd by 1/10th of a second in the 400M and 3rd in the 200M at the Orange County track meet, that's without practicing. He's a teenager now and that means he's LAZY! But he has been killing everyone in his school track meets. I told him he needs to practice before the So. CA Championships...but he still says, "OK MOM, LATER!"

Natascha & Dillon are working all the time at the church so we don't get to see them as much as we'd like. They came over for Mother's Day and brought me a card and beautiful flowers.

Adam is working hard trying to earn a starting spot on Edison's JV Football team. He is a GREAT wide receiver...soft hands, but he's a little short so he has to overcome the "football stereotype."

As for me, I've got 3 1/2 weeks to get this flabby body in shape. All the family is coming in from out of town for the graduation and they are going to want to go to the beach...YIKES! I've got some major work to do. I'm definitely a last minute person, I've been planning on working out hard for the last two months...but it takes that final hour stress to push me into action.

Now I just need to find a way to squeeze in gym time. Wish me luck...it will take a miracle!

Honda US Open in Huntington Beach

WOW, talk about crowded...we went down to the Honda US Open (Top Surfer's, Skateboarder's, BMX, and Motocross) all compete for big $$$$$$$. They had live bands, booths, giveaways, it was PACKED! I decided to take some pictures for those of you who live too far away, hope you enjoy the beach party! Make sure you double click each picture to get an up close view (puts you right in the action!LOL!)







Rescue in Progress (Strong Riptides)











RESTAURANT AT END OF THE PIER

IT'S PEACEFUL UNDER THE PIER!!