windorwithout

2012-02-20T00:47:00.001-10:00

where have I been? I'm on vacation. what? my life is a vacation? true, but that didn't stop me from booking a ticket to switzerland aka 'ch' (don't make me explain the history of 'ch'). under 'philosophy' on my fb profile it says: "windsurfing, surfing (forever a beginner) and a bit of snow on occasion works for me..." so when the offer was made, I took it.

staggering off the plane, jet lagged, stiff, hungry, wondering how to communicate my needs in a language I don't speak found me at the train station window "one way to biel" hoping my pearly whites would solve any language barrier issues. "veal?" he said with a serious look. the jetlag made my brain a bit slow but I thought what kind of country is this where they have a town named 'veal'. that's just wrong. so I tried the french version (thankfully, biel/bienne is bi-lingual). "bienne". this worked and I found myself on the final leg to my destination.

arriving to below zero temperatures was a shock and I admit there was a moment I thought 'what the heck am I doing? did I just leave maui, waves, wind to freeze my arse off?' if you agree and think I'm crazy (you won't be the first) let me explain. it's like testing a new board. would I ever say no to that? of course not. who knows, it might end up being the best board I've ever tried so why not take it for a test ride?

believe it or not from time to time throughout my life I have been a city girl - manhattan, atlanta, denver. I like to try different things so exploring the city of biel/bienne is exciting. not only the historic old village but roaming the more modern streets reminds me that city people like to wear the color black, men in suits (not bathing suits), women in high sexy boots navigate the ice, variety of food choices and the hustle of city life.

as I stroll the city streets I wonder if the euros realize how much history they have, if they appreciate that they are the basis of how my life came to be in america. do they look in wonder at the old buildings - noticing the hand cut stones or the ancient hand laid cobble stone streets.

old/new merge

sweetheart, something for valentines' day?

not all our time has been city life. I took my ego for a beating and strapped a snowboard on after 9yrs of abandoning the sport for windsurfing. let's just say it was NOT pretty! the crashes were brutal, my technique made me wonder if I was ever even any good at it during my mountain life and my swiss mountain guide has the patience of a saint. as much as I wanted to blame my very bad showing on the board it was just as in windsurfing = operator error.

is EVERY swissie here?

looking good while standing still

actually made a turn

no matter how hard the falls (or how long it took to dig me out of the powder), no matter how much humiliation my ego endured, the scenery was breathtaking, there was always a smile waiting for me at the end of each run, the day ended with tasty fondue and much needed spa time.

rob this one's for you!

the sun is shining, I have checked in with my maui peeps, solved minor problems from across the world, and have figured out how to download the bachelor as his quest for love is near the end. more adventure just around the next turn...

I fell in love, it was not my intention. it just happened...

2012-02-05T07:13:00.000-10:00

source

falling in love was the last thing on my mind. admittedly, I was prepared to be 'content' or simply 'satisfied' so I was surprised to find more joy than I thought I might.

it wasn't love at first sight (you know me, a skeptical optimist) but after a few times I knew it was what I was looking for. don't get me wrong, nothing is perfect and there are a few things that I don't care for but one day I realized that I had completely overlooked these - that was the day I knew it was love.

I could go on and on telling you how happy I am or how you wish you were me but instead...

is it the color combo of purple/red that makes my heart skip a beat?

is it the range it gives me?

is it the control it gives me even when I'm out of control?

or is it that I'm just feeling sentimental due to valentine's day and that ben, the bachelor, is one step closer to love?

source

whatever it is, I am one lucky girl...

2012 = so far so good...

2012-01-24T10:57:00.001-10:00

a wild rooster in the simmer shop

guess I should be less of a slacker and write even if the wind ONLY blows on the weekend. I kid you not, look at the graph. my love handles are getting lovelier (due to my genetics = surname = grosso). laugh if you want but I like to think that once upon a time being 'grosso' expressed status. now it just makes it challenging to zip up my jeans. are you feeling any sympathy for me? ha ha. one good thing is the foot is improving with every non-wind day. okay, I admit maybe just maybe it was broken...

simmer rooster checks out matt meola

last week was a 9 day work week. wait, that math can't be right. work for me isn't really 'work' due to the fact I very much like my job. who wouldn't enjoy endless amounts of gear to play with and get paid. from what the boss says we are expecting simmer boards to be available in the shop - no e.t.a yet. maybe they'll throw a 69 flywave in there for me...

kona winds have kept those capable and willing, on the water. word on the beach was us1111 had impressive uphauling in the waves at ho'okipa; a few great late sessions at lowers were reported; the north boys were training in kihei which made the slalom geek in me wish I was out there with them.

hey boys, nice fins!

onshore challenge

a few kiters managed to get off the beach in the onshore kihei winds. today the waves are wee with the winds calm so I'll finish up yard projects.

whales are jumping for joy or just jumping. to me, this is one of the best times of the year, perfect temperature, whales everywhere, nites cooler, avocados ripe, water uncrowded, and when the wind stops for a few days I can smell the 'beach'. the stillness gives a different feel to maui and it can almost be considered a 'change of seasons'.

the sunsets have been beautiful (as always) and I am compelled to take pic after pic. some people slag the southside but I like to stroll to kamaole 2 with the other sunset goers to indulge. sunsets are best when shared so here they are, enjoy...

more jaws entertainment...

2012-01-09T00:43:00.004-10:00

here's a video to keep you thinking about the big waves...

with so many paddle surfers the tow-in guys could not go out. one of the boys rolled into town and said even though he couldn't tow it was great to be out there with the famous, not so famous and soon to be famous. he pulled in on the shoulder of one of the biggies and said it was kind of eery as the big sets rolled in the entire fleet would scramble to get to the outside and in position compared to just hitting the throttle.

note the size of the white water that chases then finally overtakes matt meola. many surfers had the new inflatable life vests which got plenty of use.

if i69 isn't rippin' on a windsurfer, he's rippin' on a tow-in board and if he's not tow-in he's rippin' on a surfboard.

i69 and matt meola jaws left- pic epes sargent

i69 jaws left - pic tracy kraft

how about duck diving a 30 foot wave? or trying to paddle up and over then getting sucked backward into one of those giants? let's not forget that shane dorian set the bar ohhh so high last year march 15th 2011 (yes, that was BIG TUESDAY. yes, I was sailing uppers. yes, I caught big waves but not as big as shane's but my biggest to date).

three great shots from francky @ berthout visuals

I heard the boys rigged up for some jaws sailing in the afternoon but haven't seen any action shots. I was at lowers under the supervision of shawna and manu as well as a concerned call that requested I make contact when I was back on the beach (thanks for caring - I saw you out there charging). I only caught one big macker but I had a witness as manu gave me a shout of support. at least I was 100% on my chicken jibes which I hate to admit were ohhhh so many.

it was one of those days where I should have been charging but was cautious. sometimes that's just how I live my life...

after a great session, we met with erin at mama's to watch the waves, talk story, eat delicious pupus and sip a glass of pinot. we don't clean up too badly do we?

here comes 2012...

2012-01-03T15:20:00.000-10:00

happy new year from maui!

here come the big waves. this from omaui :

"The National Weather Service has issued a High Surf Warning for Maui’s north shore effective through 6am Thursday morning due to a huge northwest swell arriving later in the day and overnight this evening. The first hints of this new swell are just beginning to hit the 51101 northwest buoy so it should take most of the day to reach Maui. This is going to be a very large swell that will present very dangerous conditions, so please use your head and know your limits before paddling out. Keep an eye on the horizon, as the surf can rapidly rise from fun levels to holy crap levels. Peahi should be going off with surf heighs over 30-35 foot when this swell peaks.

Our north and northwest facing shores should start off in the 4-7 foot range this morning with a slow fade through the day, but we could see surf rising near or above triple-overhead levels of 15++ foot by sundown. It is more likely that this new swell won’t hit Maui until near or after sunset, but the odds are still high for an earlier arrival. Upper West shores will be similar with surf in the 2-4 foot range this morning and much of the day but could rise to 10++ foot late in the day. Regardless of the timing of the swell today, Wednesday will offer monster surf that slowly fades through the rest of the week. East and northeast facing shores will have minimal windswell of 1-3 foot at most locations but wrapping northwest swell could pump some breaks to way overhead levels. South facing shores should stay tiny at 0-2 foot. Be safe, be smart, and good luck!"

mauiwindcam

that's what kanaha looked like yesterday. the tow-in boys had mixed reviews. a couple of the big wave surfers told me that it was closing out to the left then the right so they drove the coast looking for the perfect conditions. sounds like kanaha was a good call for most with a variety of wave sizes. the boys were driving by all day with skis - filling them with gas.

mauiwindcam

today it's scheduled to get BIG but for now it's user friendly though the vog is thick. blowing 9.5mph so only the big boys are out...

tomorrow I plan to meet shawna at lowers for a light wind sailing session (?). we are hoping to have the right tools for the job. after some heart pounding waves it's on to girl's nite out at mama's for more quality girl time.

us33 and his hottie gave birth to a boy named 'Kian Makai Katchadourian' sounds like a future superstar. champion g44 arrived a few days ago to take on the big waves so expect to see amazing photos of his moves. of course ka1111 will be putting on a show at jaws if the conditions are right. congrats to the thommens on their nuptials. looks like we'll be seeing more of peter and his boards.

who knows what 2012 will bring but I hope it fulfills yours and my dreams...

dear santa, thank you so much!

2011-12-27T22:19:00.009-10:00

genetics gifted me the surname 'grosso' and this holiday season I've lived up to it. I've eaten fruitcake (kinda of nasty but the blueish candied thingys were tasty), ribeye (med-rare please), wine, brownies, candycane, wine, sirloin (not as good as ribeye), coconut sweet potatoes (sooo tasty), mahi mahi, turkey, wine, pecan pie, pumpkin pie, wine, mashed potatoes, and a cup of tea to calm my stomach.

santa really delivered this year as we headed out for an early session of wind with waves. 4.2 missionx and the 68 twinser were the perfect match, the channel was manageable, the sets friendly from head, logo to mast high and everyone was feeling jolly.

jumped on nori's wave...

tried to chase down some eye candy...

I did my best to see the lip and when it felt right I went for it. that seems to be the way I live my life and it has led me to this grateful life I am having. okay, I've taken a few detours along the way (quite a few) and there are times when I think of the past, shake my head and say 'rebecca, what the heck were you thinking?' what can I say, I am a sum of all of my experiences.

yes, that's the lip...

the waves were soooo much fun and I only got pounded once. I confess to having a stubborn streak that occasionally prevents me from making better decisions like chicken jibing instead of attempting to crawl up a wave that is breaking on my head. I did bail out, tried to hang on to my gear but it was no use. I swam, swam, got pounded, swam, swam, got pounded, swam, swam, got pounded. at one point I felt my heart rate increase but the waves weren't mean or nasty, my swimming technique was working and my gear managed not to break. eventually, we reconnected and I took a relaxing reach to shake off the nerves and went back for more.

my brain and soul wanted to keep sailing but my foot called it a day after 90min so I went in and enjoyed the parking lot good cheer. then off to the second part of christmas - a bbq with the swissies at kalama park.

just when I thought the day could not get better a whale put on a tail-slapping show, the sunset was gorgeous, and the thin crescent moon sat next to venus to remind me that all things are possible.

hope it was as good for you as it was for me!

santa, santa, ho ho ho...

2011-12-18T21:37:00.001-10:00

santa is scheduled to arrive in a week. to be honest, it un-nerves me a bit to think of him sneaking around the ohana while I sleep, dreaming of waves and wind. he doesn't have a chimney to squeeze down like he did when I was a kid so here's hoping he can fit thru the kitchen window.

it's always good to send santa a note but this year I didn't manage to mail one to the north pole but the elves told me he reads my blog:

dear santa,

as you know, without a doubt, that this year I've been a very good girl (my friends even agree which is unusual). I have a wish list for a couple of items to buff out my gear.

here's my list:

the perfect purple bikini (fashion first)

new rdm euro pin streamlined extension and 'twist on' uni (safety is important, too)

there are a few other items that are confidential (sorry blog readers) so I'll leave that list next to the coconut water and wheat-free, gluten-free, sugar-free, fat-free cookies (don't worry, they taste JUST like 'real' cookies).

feel-free to park next to the banana trees - the reindeer can help themselves to the ripe ones but please ask them not to nibble on the plumeria tree. last year I think dasher (or was it prancer) really did a number on it.

with love -

rebecca

p.s. give mrs. claus my best

now that I took care of santa, here's wishing all of you the very best for the holidays and of course an amazing 2012!

this morning, I walked out of the house and this is what greeted me. yes, I am grateful that my life is a series of rainbows...

santa sent me a video message...

2011-12-14T17:50:00.011-10:00

I received this message from santa today. seems he's working hard.

"hi rebecca -

jane really got into the holiday spirit this year — asking me to send you a very merry (and personal) video.

watch it here...

love - santa"

fresh gear. santa knows how to win my heart...

whew, glad santa doesn't know about that thing. what thing? well, that THING. it's best that you don't know about it either!

jane and michael, feliz navidad!!!!

jordan manley does it again...

2011-12-13T18:05:00.001-10:00

jordan manley's work is always sooo beautiful.

Baffin Island: A Skier's Journey EP2 [Season 2] from Jordan Manley Photography on Vimeo.

I'm enjoying a no wind day (forecast looks good for tomorrow).

my life is a series of rainbows...

week #1 down and I haven't been naughty...

2011-12-08T23:20:00.004-10:00

and you believe me?

while it rains in haiku, kihei has been perfect temperature. the sunsets beautiful, the sushi fresh and the night blooming jasmine takes me to dream land. the only thing left on my to do list is ship xmas gifts and an oil change. maybe tomorrow.

the winds have returned but I passed on sailing tuesday, refusing to drive anywhere. heard it was fun but I caught up with friends, painted my toenails to match my new quiver and put the final touches on the next video.

wednesday found me at the beach with the right tools for the job. I unrolled the gorgeous 5.0 blacktip, cranked the downhaul (they seem to like that), set the outhaul to a two handed window push = not too much but enough then attached it to the 75 flywave and shot off the beach. larry rigged the mast mount so when I got worked the gopro didn't fly off - thanks. how could I get worked when the waves were only head high? if you know me, you know that I can get worked in conditions that make you shake your head and say 'really? really, rebecca?' even on the slopes I've been known to hit a cornice with precision and fall down in the queue.

the blacktip beat me up a bit. as I jibed it loaded when I gave it the slightest pump so I had to pay attention as we ripped off to chase the 1st wave. I misjudged the whitewater and we went down. reminder to self - whitewater can hurt you. maybe the mast mount threw off my timing? it was very shallow but I only managed a few scrapes and the beefy kevlar top prevented any damage. let's just say we got to know one another quickly.

the gopro and blacktip meet the reef

is the 5.0 blacktip the perfect sail to sit at the top of my quiver? you betcha. it's powerful, light weight, big monofilm window so I can see you, easy to de-power, easy to pump, easy to sail. will I make my entire quiver blacktips?

nope.

the missionx has won my heart. personally, I think it's sooooo improved from last year. just because it's all xply doesn't mean that I gave up on it before we even got to know one another. that's like never having a 2nd date because his hair is the wrong color. a girl's gotta be flexible to get what she wants...

my phone rang - the ho'okipa crew said they were heading to kanaha but first stop was coffee in paia so we could catch up. shawna asked if I am ready to hit the lip and go for it but the foot is not though it's improving. manu flew in from france instead of sailing another boat over. he's sporting a sweet ride - not only his custom quatro and new simmer sails but this beauty.

shawna, manu and I met up with massimo for a 2hr session at lowers. the best thing about riding waves with these three is I can just ride and they go around me, behind me, above me and I never worry if they will run me down. sailing with them can only make me better, right?

heading down the line towards shawna

did I mention the sup guy?

massimo and I share a wave

today was high surf advisory but we never encountered anything that was too scary. the boss said ho'okipa was 5.0 and the big sets were about 20 minutes apart. uppers had some westerly freight trains coming through it and the kiters enjoyed the triangle.

cafe des amis was the call for a post session crepe. ahhhh, another perfect maui day. I am grateful for my fabulous life and if santa asks please tell him you didn't see me do it!

really? is it really december 1st?

2011-12-01T20:07:00.004-10:00

yes, I missed all of the ginormous waves. I stopped at ho'okipa before work to check it out.

sunday, the italians stopped by to share plenty of stories. my favorite is about the big macker that closed out, breaking 4 (yes, quattro) masts at the same time. don't underestimate lowers. probably a good thing that I wasn't out there considering the foot is still injured (but getting better).

the other nite on my way home I stopped to watch the cane burning.

the sounds was incredible, the flames were amazing (photos don't really express it).

the next morning it was snowing...

no wind the last couple of days (high surf advisory today) so I caught up on personal stuff, yard work, laundry, nail painting, girl's nite out, a new project and believe it or not thought about christmas.

it's december 1st! how did that happen? wasn't yesterday turkey day?

before

after

we gobble up that turkey

at any rate, time is moving forward and I can feel my wrinkles deepen every day I windsurf - I can't figure out if it's from the sun or the smiling!

please tell santa that I've been a good girl. kind of. well, there was that one nite...

ahhhh, a new quiver...

2011-11-24T01:04:00.010-10:00

chasing paper

I'll be honest, there's nothing this girl likes more than a new quiver. okay, maybe there are a few things but then again...

yes, purple and red are the colors of 0'12. don't you just love it? too girly for you? man up and buy a purple hoodie to go with that quiver.

no baggy battens

being off the water for 3 wks made me miss plenty of sessions but the foot is healing...slowly. I'm up to 1hr on the water before it refuses to attempt any kind of cutback. I am not holding a grudge towards the 75 flywave which is in big momma if you want to try it just ask.

I confess, I wasn't listening when told how to tape so I've opted for basic taping - not sure it helps. I couldn't find purple electric tape so red will have to do. please, could you follow that up with a post session foot massage? now is a good time to put my gear caddy to work. then again you know how I feel about anyone rigging my sails.

can I tell you the missionx is even better than last year. yes, I'll say it again "I dislike all xply" so I have a quiver of blacktips waiting in the wings just in case (yes, they are purple). the xply isn't so bad and I actually think taking the pvc window out has made those sails even better. both the 4.2, 4.7 feel lighter this year, rotate more smooooothly, perfectly balanced, are soft but not as flabby (that's how the pvc feels to me). rumor has it the window will return but there must be a better solution.

one great thing about the missionx is that it can take a beating. today, we spent some time in the triangle getting pounded. it came out looking just like new! I had seaweed in my hair. what?

yup, that's whitewater ready to pound me

thanks everyone for your feedback on the video. my niece watched it and wants to learn to windsurf. can you blame her?

turkey day is here so wishing you plenty of food and joy in your life.

our first week together...

2011-11-16T15:41:00.002-10:00

yes, it's windy.

yes, there are more waves heading this way.

yes, my foot still hurts.

yes, I plan to sail (well taped).

yes, the flywave 75 has secured a spot as my winter big board.

yes, you will want to try one...

oxbow is at it again...

2011-11-10T18:55:00.006-10:00

don't get me wrong, I enjoy watching the simmer boys ripping. they are bad arse and represent the brand with their hard hitting, aggressive go for it sailing. with the controversial 4th place finish of us33 at the awt makani classic people commented to me that they didn't realize us33 is such an amazing sailor. yes, he is. for example...

jaws & us33 enjoying each other

one of the industry old timers (sure I'll catch trouble for that) commented with respect. he said that us33 consistently finished at the top while on the pwa tour, isn't self-promoting and wasn't promoted by his brand sponsors so never took the spot light position that he deserved.

so simmer boys, don't think I don't love you but I found this in my in-box this morning from oxbow and you know how I enjoy watching ka1111.

continuing the simmer talk...

shooting with my pro-parazzi phone camera over my shoulder might not have been the most respectful thing to do but us1113 and simmer int'l team manager were meeting. is there a deal in the works?

us1113 on simmer
sorry can't remember who I swiped this pic from

will us1113 be positive for the brand? only time will tell (cliche I know). rumors are he's considering a sail # change. a fresh start as he moves away from naish?

the italians are here and you know how I enjoy their love of life (and food). word on the beach is there were 50+ sailors at ho'okipa the other day. no, not all were italian.

it's two weeks tomorrow that I haven't sailed and though I'm not totally cranky my closest peeps are keeping an eye on me to make sure I don't have a meltdown. thanks.

my review of the 75 simmer flywave is almost done. it's been on the water without me but is back in the shop so if my foot is up for it I'll take it out monday. a few shots for you...

time to elevate, ice and enjoy a bit of sympathy...

nothing broken...

2011-11-03T15:29:00.004-10:00

nothing broken, just time off the water. I refuse to watch the webcams though reports of sprecks being amazing have landed in my in-box. yes, you can feel sorry for me but I am getting plenty of sympathy and you know an injury wouldn't keep me off stilettos for a nite. didn't cross paths with too many pros as most partied in paia.

ahhh, tourists, my favorite

mario bros alive and well

that's one rough fairy

hangin' w/da boyz

meet the flintstones

yummmy

you know I can't resist tempting people and there were plenty of takers...

the big bad wolf was easy to tempt but riding hood resisted

flowers like candy

pocohantas went in

found a few of my peeps...

hotttt

3 devils are better than 1

reunited with a few old friends...

the pope & I have a very special relationship

even I can't resist the buddha

windsurfing friends...

the piece of eye candy took good care of me. what? was he tempted? you know the devil doesn't kiss and tell...

ghost sailboat atop the reef @ baby beach...

2011-10-30T01:45:00.011-10:00

here's the rescue of the crew from the above sailboat that washed up at baby beach...

my costume requires stilettos so I'm going to suck it up and hit the streets of lahaina. lucky for me a piece of eye candy offered to be my crutch. "but of course" - how could I say no?

fashion & first aid merge as my silk scarf becomes a compression bandage

yes, I'm elevating, ibuprophening, whining. wish I had an epic story for you but it's like so many people I saw while growing up who break their legs slipping on the ice in the street, in the bano, getting off the bus. it was white water that took me out, twisted me up, stuffed the mast into the reef and made me yelp in pain.

will this influence how I feel about the quad? it's like any new relationship - there are moments of 'whooohooo' and moments of 'you're kidding me, right?' and now that there's no windsurfing for me (until ?) so I'll finish my 75 simmer quad flywave project.

the awt is doing its best to run heats, the wind hasn't cooperated, it rained today which produced gorgeous rainbows, I heard some grumbling over yesterday's lack of wind as sailors were forced to go out. check out the live action. it was fun volunteering for a couple of days. photos compliment of ben. btw he looks amazing, is healing quickly and it is wonderful to have he and julia back on island.

ben & the girls

bra105 (need I say more?)

m3 is recovered and hitting it hard

that's one big competitor

day #1 might have been a bust but it was another beautiful maui day...

competitors - uh my name? I don't think so...

us33 takes care of business

bad arse nat gill & the girls

day #1 turns into free sailing

judy & I catch up - photo sofie louca

pavillions

more later - the doctor told me I'll heal more quickly if I eat candy. seriously!

oh yes, there's wind and don't forget the waves

2011-10-24T21:25:00.006-10:00

entertainment for you while I wave sail on the new 75 liter simmer quad (jealous aren't you?), work, volunteer at awt, halloween, write, and misc...

yes, that was me ripping around and just in case I was going too fast and you didn't get a good look here are a couple of shots

don't they look good together? does that come in purple?

that's a lot of fins

getting to know you...

2011-10-17T16:22:00.012-10:00

as with any new relationship, I am past the excitement of 'the shiny/new' and moving into the 'it's like I've known you forever stage' and am finding my groove. don't get me wrong, I appreciate the honeymoon phase but when new becomes easy yet still with plenty of mystery and adventure, I am at my happiest.

unpacking the silver toy was a celebration but I might have lost many of my photos upon the death of the last computer which makes my heart a bit sad. in any relationship the old must go before the new can come in so I boxed up the old for recycle and embraced the emptiness of iphoto. now that the silver toy and I have had our 1st adventure we are bonding more and more each day. it's newness gives me the opportunity to change my preferences and try new applications which is kind of like moving footstraps around discovering a sweet spot I never knew existed.

I didn't stop my new relationships at a shiny computer. I strapped on a new dakine harness (tks h98) and suffered the pains of it's stiffness but with some wiggling, strap adjusting, good dowsing of salt water, it's almost like we've known one another forever. it has 2 pockets, a kite handle for when I walk away from you while you're talking, comes equipped with a kite knife (watch out), is pretty and girly. what the heck is that strap below the harness hook? I took it off (hope it's not important).

continuing with the new, my quiver arrives this week (?) and the big decision is blacktip vs missionx. word from the boys is 0'12 blacktips are much improvement and you know how I feel about all xply sails.

what's next? a new board? which one? I don't know. it's like finding the perfect man - test, test, test and test some more until one feels just right. then again, the 68 twinser is finding it's way into my heart though I'll need to power that baby up so is it really the best board for me in winter winds and waves? staying with the 68 might motivate me to trim the love handles and will certainly make me a better windsurfer but life without pinot noir and fries? hmmm...

if I want to hit the lip on the loop board I'll need to bulk up and sail like us10 or find a board to replace the sweet 74 da curve. then again isn't trying to replace something a waste of time because it's all about moving on, finding a better fit and improving my spray.

let's take a break from so many tough decisions and talk about what I was doing when you were enjoying the waves. I'll let the pics tell the story...

yes, that's a chocolate bag full of fruit

mom told me not to play with my food but you know me...

clear lake

very big leaf

very big tree

a duck's view

nina enjoys the view from scott lake

tensas lake is relaxing

ahhhhutumn...

mts peek thru the clouds

now back to windsurfing...

ka1111 is THE man, my all time favorite to watch...

2011-10-06T09:03:00.047-10:00

even though I'm still not fully up and running (appt. w/computer guru today) I managed to get on the internet and this was sitting in my 'in box' this morning from oxbow rep, thierry daupin (thanks for my clothing):

JASON POLAKOW SUMMER SCHOOL

Oxbow Rider Jason Polakow's Video Summer Session Highlights

OCTOBER 5, 2011 - HONOLULU, HI -- Oxbow rider Jason Polakow crisscrossed the South Pacific catching record sized swells all the way from Tahiti to Fiji and in the process captured some incredible video. The summer session of 2011 was nothing short of epic with the largest waves seen in over 30 years. Jason puts on a dazzling video showcase of his wave riding versatility towing-in in Tahiti, and a near perfect winds-surfing conditions at Cloudbreak captures a session for the record books."There were a lot of pro big wave surfers in the line-up. Everyone was there from Kelly Slater to Bruce Irons. I rigged my equipment in the boat watching all the boys pull into big tubes. The boat started to take me up into the line-up and a huge close out set washed everyone in. I threw my rig into the line-up and basically had it all to myself for 2 hours. A lot of boys hung around to watch a windsurfer rip big Cloudbreak which was good for our sport. Everyone was shouting and yelling words of praise after each ride," said Jason about his memorable session at Cloudbreak.

Founded in France in 1985, Oxbow was born from the meeting of boardsports aficionado Fabrice Valéri and fashion stylist Isabelle Cachot. The brand was developed alongside the greatest athletes, like Laird Hamilton, pioneer of tow-in surfing, kitesurf, foilsurfing or more recently stand-up paddle surfing. For 25 years, Oxbow has never stopped exploring new territories and following riders on their craziest projects. Thanks to their close contact with these athletes, who cover all disciplines (surf, snow, kite, freestyle skiing or windsurfing), from the very beginning Oxbow has created products that combine quality, technicality and creativity. Giving riders the chance to live their passion for boardsports, without restraints and respecting their playground, Nature.This is Oxbow's raison d'être. Because nature will always be stronger than humanity.

now THAT'S a bottom turn!

blacktip rides shotgun...

2011-09-26T19:39:00.006-10:00

me and the blacktip off to have fun

"oh boy...it's been a long time since a proper entry," said with a rebecca sigh.

sailing? yes.

waves? yes.

wind? yes.

computer fixed? not yet.

eating

you know I miss you right? since I saw you last there's been epic kalama sailing (no, not dave kalama), 'opening day' blog written, my hands almost on the quatro 69 quad, slogging on the 84 goya quad, eating and more eating (yes, I'm a bit lovelier and if I'm going to commit to the 68 twinser I need to cut weight).

more eating

early morning sup (what?!), beauty & shopping, signed up to volunteer for the awt contest, south swell surfing, and for you andy, a wee bit of gossip.

beauty day

sometimes you just gotta go where the wind is so kihei was the call for the days after the big south swell. our day started at kanaha but the wind just wasn't working so my lack of willingness to de-rig found me driving with the 4.2 blacktip riding shotgun. maybe I can make a new rack, rig my sails so I can be the ultimate lazy windsurfer. of course it was tooooo windy for a 4.2 but you know me + re-rigging = I don't think so. I pulled out the vintage 63 quatro and went for a wild ride on the blacktip.

us34

f192

off they go

us34 and f192 were testing sails and going suuuuper fast. they re-rigged 3x while I just hung on exploding from time to time especially while trying to make a top turn which looked more like a bad excuse for an aerial. you know it's windy when the big boys rig 5.8 (which is teeny tiny for them).

us34 said he's enjoying his new baby and life in general. I had not seen f192 since the day we shared a wave (a wave wave not a friendly gesture) at grandma's. glad he's still speaking to me considering I almost took him out. I commented on how fast they were going to which they smiled and said the chop is brutal at that speed. f192's van has a few changes - new stickers and a new passenger. it appears he's gone from blonde to brunette. sorry girls, if you planned to make a play for him, he's already taken.

us3 and his u.s. ski team hottie took this shot at ho'okipa for windsurfer int'l mag and told me the wedding is off but the love remains strong. guess they didn't want to have a false start. ha, ha it's funny...get it? they are both racers! while we're talking ezzy, h98 has signed on and is happy with her other new sponsors. btw, her simmer quivers (12 sails) are for sale at the shop - from 3.7missionx to new 4.8 0'11 blacktip.

now that the waves have returned, it was time to clean out my gear bag and bikini basket. sadly, 3 bikinis went into the rubbish bin and 1 wetsuit retired. though I have not found a purple bikini to match my new quiver, pancho sullivan = eye candy, sorted out a few new ones and a wetsuit for me (I'm so lucky). on the day of the epic south swell he paddled out, dropped in a bit late, got worked and sliced open his hand (to the tendons, ouch) but refused to paddle in until after catching plenty of waves. then it was off to get stitches...

recently, my life has had sad moments with the loss of two young people whom left behind kids and spouses. to one of them, I offered to give up my lifestyle and move to help raise his 1 year old but he said he's handling it one day at a time. accepting my life just the way it is is hard for me at times while accepting the wind just the way it is is easy. my goal is to accept my life the same way I accept the wind and try to rig accordingly.

pau....

2011-09-20T00:58:00.001-10:00

source

my computer is pau!!!!

my entry was ready to publish but the new blogger interface lost it.

my stress is high!!!

my pics, etc. are on external hard drive but my migraine is too painful to attempt the search.

did I mention my stress level is high?

I'll be back when I can...

from leo to virgo...

2011-09-02T01:32:00.002-10:00

well, it's sad but true, my birthday month has to be handed over to the oh so many virgos in my life. happy birthday (that's the best way so as not to forget any of them) enjoy your month and I'll celebrate you as the waves come rolling in. btw, this is the ultimate bday gift.

with the south side firing this week everyone is even more excited about winter. jimmie hepp took some amazing shots, these are a few of my favorites and hope he doesn't mind my sharing. he has a bunch of albums so check them out.

kai lenny made the tv news

no name needed, you know who it is

mom, this one's for you

this one too

while the boys were killing it at la perouse I was having my own moments of joy at kalama park which was AMAZING! glassy, smooooooth, I could go on and on but it's already tomorrow so I need to sleep. hopefully, these videos will keep you entertained.

windsurfing, how can it be a declining sport?! it's soooo good for my soul...

h98's sup 11 city race in holland...

I've saved the best for last. my dear friend, sari anderson, (you've seen her link on this blog under 'more stuff') was selected as a 'fittest real athlete' by outside magazine (the issue with stephen colbert on cover). during her photoshoot they also did this tv interview. sari's an incredible woman but, I must admit, that giant catfish is really something...

monday after work I sailed pavillions which was wavy and fun then settled in for another fabulous sunset. see you soon...

count down to wave season begins...

2011-08-24T20:30:00.002-10:00

last nite I arrived home happily tired from a 4.7 day at maui sunset, washed my hair (shocking, I know) and was met with computer trouble. glad mac gives it to me in a variety of languages just to let me know it's serious. my computer isn't happy but my hair is.

there was a wee wave at maui sunset and I was killin' it. that knee high wave had nothin' on me (ha ha). nor did the kiters because the twinser's fins never hit the reef. yet another reason to consider smaller fins while board shopping. I was sailing with the kiters because it's time to get used to it since I heard kiters are now allowed at uppers. this winter will be very different and I hope everyone plays nice.

last nite I laundered my 13 bikinis and before the waves return I'll clean out big momma to prep her for wave season. yes, proper mast breaking, heart pounding, lip smacking waves. the average date they arrive on maui is september 17th. the buzz on the beach is starting to pick up speed and my 'wavy' friends are arriving. woooohooo...

here are some waves to entertain you

pascal @ quatro and I have been in touch about trying boards to see if there's a right fit for me. the twinser will definitely force me to learn to be looser, a quad will hold differently, single fin is my comfort zone and thrusters are getting mixed reviews. I'll wait to chat with us33 about boards until after his wedding (congrats!) check out simmer's advert (page 23) and pascal's coverage in surfingmag.ch (francky too). when I look at mags from around the world it reminds me that I live in windsurfing paradise. yes, I definitely know how lucky I am.

if I go after sponsorship it's pretty much riding whatever the brand gives me which is what it is. do I want to be monogamous or do I want the freedom to do whatever, whenever? don't get me wrong I'm loyal and trustworthy but with so many choices out there how's a girl to decide? test ride...

when the waves are wee, the wind light, it's raining on the north shore it's time to snorkel. we saw very big turtles, colorful fish, tiny fish, sea urchins (ouch), and beautiful coral. it was fun to enjoy the peacefulness underneath the water. maui is full of many things to do so if you find yourself without wind load up the gang, go out and explore.

after snorkeling I rigged the 4.2 blacktip and headed to camp one. it only took me 2 reaches to get there on the twinser. woah, that's serious power. I rigged it 'flat to normal' to see how it handled the holes though when we got to camp one there were definitely no holes. the waves were tiny, catherine and sergio were ripping, val was looping, the kiters friendly, and I had a couple good jumps. the blacktip/twinser combo wants to jump which is fine by me though as I got more lift I hoped my landing would be smooth so not to re-injure my ankle. I felt the draft move around as the gusts hit so maybe it was my rigging or maybe it's how the 4 battens react overpowered or maybe I'm just too sensitive. the gaastra IQ acted the same.

overall the blacktip is great fun and who wouldn't love a sail that can go upwind like that? when I made mistakes, I could still muscle it. when I crashed it was light weight and easy to waterstart. we couldn't take sailing over powered any longer so we stopped at a friend's house to fine tune and take a break before our scary fast downwind reach.

I'm still not sure if the blacktips will be right for me. I think we need to continue courting and see how it goes...

it's time to deal with the remodel - bamboo floors are down, the countertop is on it's way, tomorrow the plumber and hopefully I'll squeeze in a session at ho'okipa (under supervision of course).

another maui day ends...

more birthday fun...

2011-08-15T00:01:00.002-10:00

it's still august so that means I continue to celebrate my birthday. you know I get the entire month, right? here are some pics from dinner at mama's (yummmmmy) and a few videos to keep you busy while I finish my blog entry for windsurfmag.com about my 1st day 'sailing' ho'okipa. if you look closely it's over my shoulder. I admit, the waves were very wee but hey, a girl's gotta start somewhere. I made it through the shore break and back so for me that was success.

if you forgot my birthday, you still have a couple of weeks left in august to make it up.

back to windsurfing

dreaming of my new quiver...

simmer boys have more fun...

tormod (see you soon) is dreaming of maui...

here's a bday flower from me to you...

another year another quiver...

2011-08-09T01:35:00.008-10:00

yeaaaaahhh it's my bday

yes, I admit it's been awhile. what can I tell you? it's windy. oh, it's windy. oh wait, it's windy. not a good enough excuse for not keeping in touch?

how about this...it was my birthday.

what? you forgot? it's okay, you can make it up to me. of course I windsurfed. of course I ate (and drank) too much. thanks everyone for your singing, gifts and well wishes.

yummy, surf & turf

the bachelorette found her true love so my monday nites are free. maybe I'll get caught up with the rest of my life. my guy, jp, got the girl. I'm proud to say I'm 8 seasons for 8 picking the right choice. I need to apply those skills to my own life though still hoping that sven @ starboard will make me my very own 'man finder'.

my style:
aggressive wave (I considered the 'evolution' option but I want a man who's already evolved)

my size:
70 liters(ish)

my budget:
high (of course)

my recommended boards:
kode 68 wood carbon - sounds interesting "...it'll draw both tight and wide arcs and feel more controlled..." OR quad 69 wood carbon - now we're talking "...stable and direct in feel..."

can you see why I want to click and choose?

I'm happy to report that I've rigged a variety of sizes this last week. I had a relaxing 4.7 late sprecks session with the euros, next days were 4.2 op, 3.7 matched with the vintage 63 quatro, 4.0 op bday session and 3.9 sprecks today.

on my way to kanaha I picked up a couple german guys walking from kanaha kai to the beach with beginner gear. after loading them into big momma (yet another reason to have a big rig) I learned they had never windsurfed, never rigged, and had no clue. they don't call me the beach liaison for nothing so I rigged their 2.8, hauled them up to the beginner spot and gave them a few tips. I checked on them from time to time which gave me a break from the wild winds though there were little waves to play around on. at the end of the day I dropped them off and I think they just might become windsurfers.

my bday started with a coffee date then rigging out of lowers. shawna was instructing and I sailed with them for a bit so she shot flat water sailing footage of me before I went up to the windswell that was making a nice mess out of uppers. I rigged a new 4.0 missionx (orange to match my bday bikini) and it was crisp, responsive and waaaay too big but it was so windy that rigging the 3.7 would not have mattered so I hung on for 3hrs and enjoyed the ride. at times the 68 twinser and I were sliding sideways but for the most part I'm totally impressed with her. she now has my favorite tabou footstraps so my foot injury is improving albeit slowly. sure the doc would tell me to take a break but hey, it's windy!

h98 dropped off her quivers yesterday before she left for the netherlands so I got my hands on the 3.9 and 4.5 blacktips to test before my new 0'12 quiver arrives just in case I decide on an all blacktip quiver. I have the next few days off so if you see her sails not doing what they normally do, you'll know it's me though I did manage to make 1 3/4 tacks today.

oh where oh where did my tack go????????? hopefully, I'll get it back before my next birthday.

paradise is on fire...

2011-07-27T11:33:00.002-10:00

not much windsurfing going on but that's not due to a lack of wind but due to a variety of extra-curricular activities I've been enjoying. seems strange doesn't it? me, the windsurf junky not windsurfing. sometimes it's good to step off the board to enjoy the beach with friends, surfing, spa time, and romantic sunset dinners.

yesterday, we enjoyed a morning cup of coffee at hookipa then I slogged around at sprecks before the rains came in shutting the wind down. it was great to be on the water and practice my weeble wobble skills. the wind picked up in the afternoon but I ended up at the doctor due to excessive coughing from the sugar cane burning. the smoke seems worse than ever this year as they burn, burn and burn the fields.

don't get me wrong, my life without sugar would be less tasty though my love handles would be less troublesome but isn't there a better way? these pics aren't good for tourism nor as exciting as action shots from ho'okipa but life in paradise can't always be full of beautiful sunsets, fragrant flowers, and perfect waves...

it's windy and time to sail. be assured, sugar cane will not stop me from loving my amazing life on maui (cough, cough)...

10 days is too long and 4.7 in 28mph is too big...

2011-07-15T00:00:00.003-10:00

even though I'm working a lot I still find time to have fun. I've been treated with an incredible amount of luxuries; grass, hot showers, wine, bbqs, side splitting laughter and an amazing board lineup.

on maui, 4.7 is considered 'light' for a short and sweet like me (though you know I'll go all the way to 6.9 if that's what it takes) so tuesday morning was perfect to try two tabous - 80 pocket thruster and 79 da curve quad.

ahhh, the pocket, no matter how you ride it, it just goes. you know the 69 and I have a lot of history. the 80 didn't disappoint as it ripped off the beach and pulled a smooth planing jibe making me feel like a real windsurfer. how can anyone NOT love the pocket? as for the extra two fins, to be honest, I couldn't tell the difference though I didn't remove the thrusters to test my theory. I heard someone did test the theory and they agree. maybe on a wave it acts differently from the single fin but for bump/jump summer time at sprecks it didn't seem to matter. after a few small waves, rolling outside swell it was time to hand the pocket over to it's designated rider (sorry I forgot the straps).

as I grabbed the 79 quad I noticed how much shorter it is and of course pink is always pretty. the hang weight felt the same and the straps fit perfectly so I knew it would be love. just like love, she needed some coaxing, a bit more upfront riding and a gentler touch in the chop. on the wee waves she excelled, wanted to stay in the pocket and throw spray (yes, mine is wimpy but hey it's still spray). she's totally different than the sweet 74 single fin and though wasn't the fastest on the water, a better match for me than the 80 pocket. for a 79 she didn't feel it until I tried to jump. we got on just fine even in the lulls when she wanted to slow it down and take in the sights but a little encouragement and sweet talk got her back in the action.

for me, windsurfing is like dating, it takes plenty of test rides to find the right match. the problem I have is the conditions change and a girl might need to mix it up hence the 4 boards in the van; 85l, 74l, 68l, 62l which makes it harder to commit. maybe I'm a girl who wants it all...

too windy for 4.7 but...

today, I slept in until someone demanded breakfast and then it was off to the beach. another 4.7 day which included a gear caddy and this girl never says no when someone offers to carry her gear - merci. it was 4.7 for about 20 minutes then it was back to the beach to add downhaul where I was offered a gear swap. the custom 65 liter richard greene immediately bucked me off on the outside letting me know who was boss. the chop wasn't a thought as she smoothly cut thru it and she was fast. we caught a couple wee waves and she was fast in the bottom and plenty smooth at the top. she's for sale but her owner always looks so happy when he rips by me - I wonder if he really wants to sell her.

the 68 & I are becoming good friends

the 68 twinser once again surprised me by holding her own, rarely slipping, even when I was choking the rig in hopes of gaining control. I know this is the wrong technique and I'm working on breaking the habit (a reason I'm signed up for us34/shawna's speed clinic). the waves were tiny and making any kind of bottom turn overpowered didn't always work so after 3.5hrs of overpowered sailing I finally called it quits. like a kid too tired to sleep, I didn't want to go in because it was so much fun but my hands were numb, the straps hurt, hurt, hurt my feet and it was time to eat.

you know it's a good day of sailing when a duck burger and fries are met with a beautiful sunset...

july 4th or was it july 2nd - hey what's a couple of days?

2011-07-04T00:00:00.002-10:00

betsy ross sews the 1st flag
fyi that was the name of my horse

happy freedom day for the united states. even though the queen mother (may she rest in peace) and I have the same birthday I am glad that my relatives emigrated from europe to make a life for themselves in the new world whether it was of their own free will or not. for over 100 years my relatives lived on the east coast until my mother and father fell in love with the mountains of colorado.

this is what my relatives saw growing up...

this is what I saw growing up...

this is what I see now...

with freedom day off from simmer, I am hoping to squeeze in a session between my morning plans and my evening plans. I cannot remember a day with omaui reporting 0-2 foot waves on each and every shore. no worries there's plenty of wind.

if you're missing waves here's yet another great jaws video

ahhhh, march 15th, while the boys were killing it at jaws I caught my biggest wave to date at uppers on the sweet 74.

here's hoping you find your freedom, I know I have...

windy but not much windsurfing...

2011-06-27T13:51:00.008-10:00

only on maui are surfboards @ post office

my list of things to do, places to be, people to see is oh so long but don't worry I'll find time for you as well as get on the water to give my love handles some attention. how did my life get so crazy? some one suggested I just say no but you know me...

sunday nite maui film festival was a great time under the stars though it started with a minor debacle when they couldn't find my vip pass (tks thierry). we got in and joined our posse for 4hrs of movies. starting with sleepy count (we cried), followed by paul mccartney's new music video 'blue sway' from jack mccoy's movie deeper shade of blue

oxbow's walls of perception - yes that was me letting out an enthusiastic hoot for ka1111's epic aerials at jaws. I mean, really, who goes to jaws and thinks 'hey, think I'll go for an aerial, it'll be fun.' it's no secret that I can watch ka1111 sail big waves all day long while it's usa0 that I think is poetry in motion. not to take anything away from us1112 who's an amazing athlete. a few teen girls came into simmer saying they got us1112's autograph so he has a bit of a following.

duane (eye candy) desoto makes longboarding look oh so easy:

so does antoine delpero - when I was in biarritz there weren't waves and without a wetsuit? brr...

matt meola spoke of his love for ho'okipa (even on the windiest of days) and that he's ready to take surfing by storm. everyone agreed the action was amazing and customers who came into the shop had mixed reviews as many unfamiliar with the athletes found their stories confusing such as why did matt meola smash computers (I don't know either because didn't the internet help him win $100k?), ka1111's brief comments on being held under at jaws (I remember that day - he was under for a looong time) here are his thoughts:

the end of the movie was usa0 frolicking with hot chicks and a beach ball sounds sexy but I heard a few negative comments but what's a surf movie without hot chicks?

after the adrenaline pumping 'walls of perception' we sobered up with 'plastic tide' but were cheered up with the 'family of the wa'a' inspiring every person who will ever see it. I learned much about hawaii's culture, maui's love for the canoe and people's love for one another.

we were exhausted but stayed for the final movie, 'physics of surfing'. I've never been much of a 'why' person so for me if there's a wave I do my best to enjoy it and rarely wonder where it came from, how it formed, etc. so this movie was a good lesson. no, I still can't explain it...

the rest of the week was work, work, work though I had a break on thursday and was set on tackling the high surf avisory south side waves. shawna took me to 1,000 peaks for a lesson - last time there I ended up on anti-biotics leaving a permanent reminder. it was higher tide and perfect waist/chest high rides. I'll say it again - thanks for my board. surfing is fun though getting any good might be an endless dream that I'm chasing. fortunately, I have all summer to paddle, paddle, paddle.

while I was enjoying 1,000 peaks the boys said la perouse was going off - 12 foot faces and some serious action. one guy spent the night and said 'it was so big I left the next morning'. dumps was reported to be just a bit smaller. word on the beach is that francisco goya and pascal were sailing. sorry to miss that.

ho'okipa small but still fun

gossip (for andy) is lacking so maybe I'll make some up. t1 is shaping a 'looser' (NOT loser) wave board; us1111 was seen taking his porsche for a spin; usa0 pulled a euro move on baldwin in his truck stopping traffic; us10 only wears 4 way stretch boardies; congrats to us16's new np/jp sponsorship - I spoke with a naish rep who said it was hard to let her go but they couldn't come to a happy place; h98 (another ex-naish girl) is on island to train and continue preparations for the 11 city sup race - for some reason neither she nor the other girls have taken as much heat as shawna has for the sexy shot which was taken out of context in this month's windsurfing magazine (more from me on that topic); congrats to samantha bittner for becoming the new naish girl; seems ho'okipa tension is less (so are the waves) with francisco goya getting props for having the best wave etiquette; my ho'okipa correspondent is back and took a few shots.

non-windsurfing sightings; owen wilson rode his bicycle into simmer to chit chat. he's been busy making movie millions, sup coast runs, enjoying fatherhood and asked me about windsurfing though he's not sure it's the sport for him. maybe one day I'll convince him to take a lesson. while enjoying yet another tasty meal at spago I got an up close at steven tyler (he's still my #1 for rock/roll's best screamer) as he posed for a few pics while trying to get out the door.

with the 68l twinser fins in properly and back 1cm she rides like a dream. no, my toe nails are not painted grey (ughhly). yes, I'm still a free agent but a few things are brewing so it'll be fun to see where it leads.

just received a luxurious gift of new kaenons to look at you thru rose colored lenses. hey, think they'll sponsor me? I'd only ask for 1 pair per year.

looks like I'll miss my windsurfingmag.com deadline since tonite the bachelorette continues her quest for love, it's windy (still in my jammies), I haven't sailed in ???, oh yeah, there's my list of things to do, the suisse leave today so it's my last chance to sail with them and the aussies are arriving so sandy sprecks it is.

flower just for you...

a few waves and plenty of wind

2011-06-16T23:35:00.004-10:00

please don't take my lack of attention personally. I've been busy going this way and that way. heck, I didn't even meet my blog box deadline but I just submitted it to the editor for review/publishing.

you know the wind is wild so we won't go there. what you don't know is I'm working full time (I know can you believe it?) for a month while my boss is out of town. that also means I still fit in sailing, surfing, remodel decisions, yard work, full moon gazing and don't forget girl's nite out.

I met with us10 before he left for pistol river and his job with the AWT. the reason for the meet was to tell him that I wanted to end my sponsorship with tabou. no, I don't have a new sponsor. sure it seems a bit crazy to let go of one before I have another but if you know me, you know I am full of surprises.

yard work is one of the joys and pains of my life. my encounter with this little guy was a joy but the next day I realized 'hey, that cute caterpillar might be doing harm to the tangerine tree.' I looked but can't find it hopefully it wandered into the neighbor's yard.

on my way to kanaha I was stopped due to road work for the tsunami project at the sewage treatment plant. maui is taking precautions (or fixing damage) and from what I understand has set standards for other places in the world. it's good to see my tax dollars at work keeping punta poo poo a cleaner place for winter wave sailing.

did you see the aloha women's windsurf clinic video? we had so much fun! yes, I'm signed up for 0'12.

who doesn't like to snuggle up and watch movies under the stars? that's where I'll be sunday nite at the maui film festival's showing of:

oxbow's walls of perception

followed by family of the wa'a

followed by the physics of surfing

sounds like the perfect nite doesn't it? lucky for me it's not monday or I'd have to miss it due to my loyalty to the bachelorette's search for true love. she's getting closer and I have my top 3 picked.

while I'm busy I know you can find plenty of things to do without me and as soon as windsurfingmag publishes 'just me, just maui' you can catch up on a few more details of my life.

if it all gets too much, you can find me relaxing under the palm tree...

windy...

2011-06-05T00:45:00.003-10:00

this is what I've been doing...

monday

tuesday

wednesday

thursday

3.7, 3.7, 3.7 oh wait it's 3.7 (3.3 actually but I don't have one yet). on wednesday, the 69 pocket left my hands (sad moment) so instead of feeling sorry for myself, I realized that maybe it's time for change so I dug deep in the garage and pull out the vintage 63 liter quatro with the green/yellow flames (photo to follow but only after proper toenail painting).

it took me 20 minutes just to get the board bag open (arghhh, where is that gear caddy? chasing waves no doubt) but luckily I had the right tools for the job though patience was the most important one.

bag board zipper tools

an old cracked fin was stuck into the footstrap and my peeps were rigged and ready so I put it on and hoped for the best. she got a lot of attention, mostly heckling and eye rolling except for usa17 who gave her respect for the 'battle scars'. it's been a couple of years since we've been on the water together so I wasn't sure I would love her as much as I remembered. it was like showing up at a party with an ex and trying to explain to everyone that I made a mistake letting him go in the first place.

off the beach we went and it was as if we hadn't been apart for a day. when we hit our first jump in the wild winds I smiled and knew we are meant to be together. hey, did you see that tack? she has taken the top spot on the rack in big momma and though one of the quatro boys assured me they have a newer model that is just as good isn't there something to be said for sticking with tried and true? word on the beach is that quatro/kt plan to introduce 3 fins to the line up but I have 3 months to figure out what board I'll need for winter waves.

more sunsets and south swell expected this week.

still on maui - I survived the end of the world

2011-05-24T11:02:00.002-10:00

rapture paia style

whew, that was close. here I thought the end of the world was upon me. but considering I'm a person without regrets (well, there's that one) the end of the world isn't scary for me. didn't know about it until I was on a date at cafe des amis and the next table was sorting out their 'rapture cd' to burn.

source

if jesus does return he'll need to sign up for classes at the apple store because he's going to need an iphone, ipad and macbook air. sorry pc users let's face it, he would definitely be a mac guy. the real question is would he kite or windsurf? if he can walk on water windsurfing will be easy enough, right?

last week, before the nuclear winds started, I enjoyed a relaxing 5.0 icon day attempting the outside tack. almost did one but my brain and body were totally confused and not all that cooperative. one day my tack will be as smooth as my freshly waxed legs (ouch).

took a break from the wind to surf small kine waves on the southside for a few hours. glassy, easy, riding left, riding right and of course walked away with a few reef cuts but that's part of surfing. love, love, love the surf diva and she gets plenty of attention which isn't so bad. that googly eyed yellow koi is right where my face is when paddling but we've become good friends.

late season swell arrived on friday head to logo high and the boys reported in saying it was a fantastic day. they felt sorry for me for not being able to get out but to tell the truth I have had dozens and dozens of amazing waves this winter. wow, what a great season!

yesterday was summertime winds and if it keeps blowing over 30mph I'll need a 3.3. I had my hands on the 69 quatro quad but kt aka 'up and down' took it for a photoshoot. so I am on the 68 twinser which is super fun though I managed to get caught between a big westerly and good sized wind swell which created a chaotic current spinning the twinser every which way. while I was attempting to regain control and not get munched two of the boys jumped (only 4 of us out) crashing near me. I rode plenty of fun waves doing my best to reaaaally oversheet to get down the line then hit the lip. the twinser is super loose at the top which is something to get used to because the sweet 74 da curve holds differently.

for now I'm stuck at the house waiting for the alarm company to get here to make it stop beeping. it won't stop so had to sleep with earplugs = didn't sleep. if it is the beginning of the end, I hope to find daily zen like I do when I look into the koi pond.

rain has stopped, wind is back

2011-05-17T11:05:00.003-10:00

missing your surfboard?

I've spent some time in haiku where it rains, rains then rains some more. it was soothing until I thought about the rust that comes with the rain.

what's been going on?

finally finished my other blog job entry

the crew

been doing plenty of yard work and enjoying the animals I encounter.

this one is over 5" long

snail love

more of the tree removal. remodel hasn't started yet but I've made the counter top decision = boring and basic but functional.

before

after

the boys have been stopping into the shop to give updates on the santa cruz awt contest. sounds like everyone had fun and I think it's great that an 'unknown' (sure he's 'known' at his break) took the fin win. from what the boys are saying it was a surprise but the girl's win was expected as we all know ingrid rips. nice to see morgan sitting in 3rd and us3 on the podium was expected right?

all in all the reports have been positive and the guys I spoke with are planning to be there for the next event.

nathan mershon - pic awt

ingrid larouche - pic awt

yesterday, after work I threw the 69 quatro quad into big momma and headed for sprecks where shawna and us10 are coaching another aloha clinic. 3.7 was for the most part a-ok and instead of the quad I took the ever trusty 69 pocket and sailed with us10's blondie. the waves were small and formed nicely so it was great to put into action what I learned at the women's clinic. one of the hotsails boys was out jumping, us3 and his super star fiance (wedding date has been set) were out, a few of the boys were looping though one ended up in the ER with a cut top tendon on his foot. yup, his tendon. seems his front foot came out of the strap while in rotation causing the board to rail up and his foot was sliced on the thruster fin. when I put him to bed last night he was hurting but manning up.

it's windy. I'm off to sandy sprecks for more fun in the sun.

for no wind days?

2011-05-10T00:10:00.003-10:00

I'm confused but I'm guessing the hierarchy goes something like this:

swimmers

bodyboarders

shortboard surfers

longboard surfers

windsurfers

kayakers (do they get this slot or is it the sup?)

sup-ers

wavejet sup-ers

pangas

actually, I could have used a ride today when the uphaul broke while I was heading back from uppers. in the end my light wind waterstart technique got me to the beach.

women's clinic over no time to recover...

2011-05-05T01:04:00.009-10:00

proud of our wounds

OMG...

I'm just too tired to tell you all about the women's clinic but promise a full write-up next week at my other blog job. we proudly ended the week with bruises, blisters, sunburns, reef cuts, a painful ankle injury as well as a new set of skills and new friends.

us16 is missing but not in spirit

on the days I wasn't 10am-6pm windsurfing followed by nites out, pinot noir and badly needed foot massages,

tired, sunburnt, hungry

I worked @ simmer, executed tree removal (11 qty) and kitchen remodel at the house.

who doesn't like a man with a power tool?

only 9 more...

even with only a few hours left in the day I still managed to enjoy episodes of the real housewives of (wherever), reply to overdue emails and squeeze in an overpowered 4.0 session today.

I unwrapped a new 370 100% carbon simmer mast, admired it then stuck it into the luff sleeve. aaaaaahhhh, I love those masts. combine that with the 26mm grip blackline boom and the 69 pocket te hanging on to the 4.0 was easy though I did managed to scare myself once or twice. on our last reach at lowers we couldn't even make bottom turns and jumping is out of the question for me until ??? so we called it a session. many of the boys were sitting on the beach whining about the blasting winds. yup, summer time is a comin'.

useful even when empty

I'm so ready to put my new skills to use and hoping for a less painful session tomorrow. will wear an ankle thingamagigy (noun: used to refer to or address a person or thing whose name one has forgotten, does not know, or does not wish to mention) but first, the airport at 7am for a departure though would prefer if it were an arrival.

if I can't have that at least I have plenty of carbon. they say 'diamonds are a girl's best friend' valuing the least amount of carbon in a diamond. I remind men if they want to court me 100% carbon makes my heart flutter.

j11 is back on the water after her emergency room visit a couple weeks ago. she got washed and her quad cut her head and arms. she showed me the scars and said they didn't need to shave her hair to which she was grateful. of course, she brushed it off as nothing though did admit she nearly passed out as pam drove her to the ER. g4's 0'12 blacktip quiver is on the floor at work, do you think he'll notice if they accidently disappear? big momma always has room for more. some of the pros are still here, I said howdy to ned0, us34 (he & shawna have a speed clinic announced for august), h24, got up close and personal with a few others. the np boys were testing masts; breaking, re-rigging, taking notes and sailing "small" sails if you want to call a 6.0 small when it's blowing +30mph.

the beach is buzzing about the butterfly effect which I'll miss due to my schedule. 'be the effect' affected me a few days ago when I was abruptly reminded of how small the windy world is. I admit, I respond faster to saving my arse on the unruly waves at uppers than I do standing face to face with my past.

I stood there listening to her explain she is here from that other island to help organize the butterfly effect. I felt as if I was too late on a big bottom turn as the wave crushed me, ripping the gear from my hands, working me until it decided to spit me out. it took a couple of hours to realize that what I wanted to say to her was "seriously?"

the next day, I did what any girl would do when her past invades her present. I windsurfed, windsurfed then windsurfed some more, completely enjoying the final day of clinic. before calling it quits, I took one long reach beyond the waves, beyond the turquoise waters into the big blue letting the past go and knowing that's where it belongs.

I already miss the girls and camp one...

da crew

signed up!

2011-04-27T00:12:00.002-10:00

women's clinic starts tomorrow though missing a few in tonite's picture from flatbread. not too much drinking but plenty of carbs.

too busy to write so videos for your entertainment.

m3's triple loop crash on april 20th at ho'okipa where he knocked himself out and started sinking. g4 and ho'okipa regular ferdinando loffreda were immediately there to help in the water. this footage is shot by e42's helmet cam.

and more windsurfing

and another video from mauiwatershoot and dream time pictures

happy bday aries!

2011-04-19T00:18:00.009-10:00

how is it I know so many people with birthdays this week? my off key rendition of the birthday song was left on a few voice mails as well as I humiliated myself person to person. is life short? people say that but do they really believe it? if life truly is short would I make different decisions? is the decision to make it a 'go for it' life just in case it's short or does 'going for it' potentially shorten life? hmm...

m3 - pic bob gilbert

thankfully, m3 is healthy and recovering quickly. h98 checked in on him and they discussed life's shortness (or lengthyness) as well as their deep appreciation of how fortunate they are to be living the lives they have chosen.

if I think too much about the long and the short of life it can lead to 'shoulding'. should I have said no? should I have sent that email expressing myself? should, should, should...

one thing I should do (well, actually did) is sign up for shawna's aloha women's clinic on april 26th to take my sailing to the next level. she said any of us on maui are welcome to join her students who are flying in for the week. looks like there will be wind, waves and no wind days will be surfing, sup-ing, and other fun activities.

shawna and I met up with simon for an afternoon that turned to nite that turned into a very good time. windsurf economy was a main topic. we discussed how to interest new students, keep buyers buying and the overall joys of windsurfing. a european wave trip might be in my future. have wetsuit, will travel.

the wind blew soooo hard in march that it blew itself out with only a couple days of sailing last week. the best was friday on the 4.7missionx and the always planing, jumping, ripping 69 pocket. my motto is when in doubt go for 69 (now you know why I smile so much). uppers was overhead but not quite logo (my 'T' is pretty high up), glassy, beautiful clouds, crystal clear waters with many turtle families enjoying the reef. I had uppers solo for 45 minutes (then 1 guy) on smooth westerly waves with 4-7 bottom turns.

it was one of those amazing sessions that left me knowing that my life is exactly as it should be. the rain, rainbow and big black cloud told me the wind was shutting down and I'd best not be late for work. my timing was perfect but t1 did the walk of shame (very rare), racers had to re-rig and the dutchies didn't make it off the beach.

monday, I sailed 3.7 and uppers had plenty to choose from but the boys were acting badly. aggressively pinching upwind while I was trying to position on a wave, busting over the backside and I could only take the testosterone for a couple of hours. if you're going to ride up my arse at least ask for my #. back on the beach the girls were all complaining of the same thing. it's been requested of me to write a special post to share our feelings (so girly, right?) to let you know how it is for us.

until then we girls want to say "STOP DROPPING IN ON US! thank you."

bra253 gets dropped in on

thursday, was all day at grandma's with bigger sets in the morning. at times the outer reef was breaking setting off a collective 'whoohoooo' from those sitting on the outside. the 2nd reef left was manageable though I took more than one beating. the boys showed up and had fun goofing off on their sups. I dropped in on f192 crashing almost taking him out (he was sure to stay away after that), bra253 had to deal with the surf diva as I dove under his wave, bra105, v111 and ? looked to be having a few good laughs.

f192 goes for a little lip

very big man on a very small wave

f192 m.i.a

making something of nothing

post grandma's it was wild bday fun at cafe o'lei. after a very late night I was happy the surf was smaller friday but I only lasted 45min opting for the sport of sunbathing. (sorry for the bad pics, my camera is having issues).

bday fun

my life is a bit chaotic so no sailing for me this week. word on the beach is thursday will bring advisory level south southwest swell to the southside (say that 10x quickly) so you'll know where to find me. I'm excited about summer to improve my paddling.

see you soon but for now I should sleep.

2011-04-07T12:19:00.002-10:00

Mr T

april fool's is over and I must admit I've been a fool more than once in my life. will I be a fool again? probably...

I wouldn't be fooled into rigging the wrong size sail as I headed out on a late session with the boys. truth is I could have been on a 3.7 but when it's dusk and winter (okay spring) I usually rig a bit bigger. the boys put on a show and I was doing my job representing my sponsors as the only simmer sail amongst all goya. I gave props for all out of the water moves...

having a 4.0 in between the 3.7/4.2 is the best thing to happen to my quiver. the missionx aren't overly powerful so in the smaller sizes it really makes a difference. the wind has been it's normal gusty (best said w/french accent) and the missionx is slightly less nervous than the mission and the icon doesn't even notice the gusts.

the uppers crew took over lowers one day. imagine the lowers regulars were wondering who the heck we were and why we decided to charge their wave. val tore it up and was thrilled to hit the lip over and over. I started my aerial learning on the shoulder to head high waves, the 4.0 was fully powered and though not sure I got my fin out of the water (the quad will be more impressive w/shorter fins) but I started working on my basic technique. seeing the spot right where the wave is breaking, hit it and that's about as far as I've managed.

I didn't leave lowers without injury to my ego and my body. then I looked at my girlfriends, we all have big blurple (blue/purple) bruises on our bodies. shawna's is from a big day at ho'okipa where she almost made it but ended up on the rocks and julia's is from a collision. unlike most girls we continue to wear dresses, short skirts, short shorts and don't think much of our "glamour donts". my date couldn't help but notice mine showing itself under the hem of my short skirt and hasn't complained about the less than smooth callouses on my hands.

simmer shoot is this week. of course the simmer boards are all the talk on the beach as is the 2012 blacktip. not sure a quiver of blacktips will suit me but us33 has offered up some of the smaller ones for me to try. as for the boards, the insider simmer email arrived in my in-box and here's just a bit of what johan lindstrom has to say: "...For us the reason to make boards is very simple, we want to be a complete windsurfing brand that has the same good quality, performance and value. We will achieve this with a mix of Simmer Style high image of quality windsurfing products, unique production methods, experienced shapers and team riders and a solid distribution network. In the future we will also have slalom and freeride board project, but it felt natural for Simmer Style to start with wave boards..."

yes, the waves are back kicking everyone's arse. one of the boys picked up the 75 simmer quad for the shoot but hoping it will be 'accidently' left on maui. we promise to kept her safe under lock and key. I am planning a full report w/pics. from what I hear robin's egg blue will not be an option (whew, I wouldn't want to paint my toenails that color) how about a nice purple (the italians will love it). oh, and definitely not the starboard footstraps.

simmer 75liter prototype

under lock and key

april is always exciting on maui. the photoshoots bring so much buzz. I can't find the teampryde live broadcast. live is a great way to use social media to it's advantage here's day 2 video bra253 is easy on the eyes on or off the water. speaking of np one of the npmaui clothing reps told me there's been upper management changes in the shop with a new mgr. arriving from miami. what?!

the starboard gang took over kanaha but quickly moved up to the top of the cove so as not to get too much attention. one tourist asked if I thought the helicopter took a picture of him since it flew over head. though I don't know for sure, I told him I very much doubted it.

scotty could sail a paper bag except it might get wet and disintegrate

us3 has been busy (no joke)

I mostly sailed 4.0 last week with thursday being big but my sailing partner wasn't up for the risk so we sailed the inside until we were both bored and I went stiletto shopping. monday was a late session since the waves were getting bigger. some nice sets on the 69 pocket who's out of the garage (even painted my toenails pink to match). she's so f*ing fabulous! the 4.7missionx was just the right sail. a bit easterly yet onshore (at times I was confused) with the waves westerly so I could ride from camp .5 all the way thru uppers usually ending up having my wave connect to sven's wave. for some reason the crew was clustered down low and it didn't look like their wave was that much better. I did get a bit of talking to for sailing all by myself. in my defense, it was just one of those days.

yesterday was a surprise bonus but I ended up at the doctor instead of the water. nothing life threatening just a bit of chaos. feeling better I hope today offers up a surprise session though it's not looking very likely. the big rains were supposed to arrive interfering with the trade winds and might still be on the way. mowing the lawn might be a good idea.

here's wishing you a happy spring time as the flowers bloom, the snow melts (mud, yuck) and the trees turn green. that is unless you are in the southern hemisphere. remember what cuba gooding sr. said 'everybody plays the fool, sometimes...'

2011-04-01T00:00:00.007-10:00

you wouldn't believe me if I told you...

non-related to the above photo:

just read this on omaui forum "stand up paddling is now against the law at all maui surf breaks." that's going to upset a lot of people. wonder what happened. another reason for me to just say 'no'.

2011-03-29T00:14:00.007-10:00

I have so much to share with you and just can't. sometimes it's best for me to step away from the keyboard, sip the cup of tea that's warming my soul, listen to music, and hope for a foot massage...

chihagi and her friends have collected over $10k for japan thru swap meets, garage sales, jewelry sales. mari made special necklaces you can buy one at simmer.

enjoy the following:

thanks, alexis, you take the sport of stilettos to a whole new level.

f3 and the gaastra boys in japan

Windsurf : Japan Windsurfing 2011 by Riders-Match

the always entertaining ka1111

and the squirrel who learned this in 2 weeks

it's been windy, windy, windy.

advisory level swell arrives wednesday. the boys say maybe not jaws-able but it'll be plenty big. photo shoots have started so it's helicopter season, pro-sightings everywhere, 0'12 gear revealed but with jacques closed the real gossip will be hard to find but I'll do my best.

ouch...

sure you've heard about g4 having a close call with a fin.

very late session for me today. op on 4.0 but had a few nice jumps in the fun waves at uppers. ian here's wishing you a very quick recovery. sure us10 will loan you a pair of crutches.

it's time for the cali k. please know I'll do my best to make it up to you...

we are made for one another...

2011-03-22T12:34:00.020-10:00

we are made for one another

good morning. yes, I miss you. remember if you don't hear from me it doesn't mean I'm not thinking of you. finding balance can be a challenge at times especially as life changes just like the ocean. one day it's smooth sailing, a few days later it's 5+m waves then wild winds. for me, life's transitions are sometimes smooth like that gorgeous tack I pulled off tuesday or less pretty like the rail I caught at lowers on wednesday.

kanaha's open (old news) and showing a bump today so I'll try to make this short and sweet (just like me, right?). okay, sometimes I'm not so sweet but a girl's gotta stand up for herself when pushed too far. like when you drop in on me (us) one too many times. you know who you are.

let's go back to last tuesday. did I end up at jaws? nope, because I wanted to sail, my camera is acting up, ben took shots, plenty to see on fb (I pulled my favs from jimmie hepp). us33 said he considered jaws "fun" once he and i69 were de-rigged, heading back to land because it demands full attention. there was a lot going on with surfers, sup, kites, windsurfers. a few close calls but no injuries reported that I know of.

Simmer Team Captain US-33 Kai "Flykatcher" Katchadourian on a glassy bomb at Peahi on March 15,2011. (frame grab by Nyberg)

us10 opted out of jaws and was seen killing it at punta poo poo aka p3. 2 broken legs only slowed him down for a short time. don't forget spring is one of the best times to be on maui for waves and wind so sign up for us10 and shawna's aloha clinics. I'm planning to attend the girl's clinic.

I arrived early at kanaha to the channels closing out with 5+m high waves. my gear of choice was 4.2 missionx w/the "t" so you could keep an eye on me and the very trusty sweet 74dc single fin. I double checked my ropes, changed safety line on my base (dave, please make my life easier), checked screws and wore my 1mil jkt just in case I had a loooong swim. there's always a chance something will break but on a day like tuesday it's good to give it all a good looking over.

lowers 2 days before big tuesday - mauiwindcam

uppers was the call and it was b-i-g. we headed thru the upper channel which required timing, speed and an occasional chix jibe. out in the big blue I took a long reach to give the sets a good look; where were they breaking, how's the vibe, where's the best place to drop in, how big is the cross chop, how far apart are the gigantic westerlies, is my gear balanced, am I balanced.

I chose one of the last waves of a monster set, the 4.2 was perfect and the sweet 74 was glad to be charging. settled into position I then looked up the line it was gigantic as far as I could see. fin3 (or just his sail) dropped in deep and jeff even deeper. mast 1/2 high and two boys upwind forced me to turn earlier than I wanted but fin3 gave way to jeff so we rode that monster all the way to the break. wooohooo! as the 74 smoothly tacked I knew it was going to be a great day.

my 2nd wave was big and so friendly that I didn't realize how deep I was until I looked around to see my peeps far, far away. you know how I feel about the "c word" but I was fully committed to my biggest wave to date (yes, I had a witness(es) when a kiter jibed upwind less than 10m away. as we made eye contact I shook my head yelling "NOOOO...I'm not moving!" not to be a b*tch but the wave behind was bigger and with no room for error I was not going anywhere. I held position as long as I dared then sped down the face enjoying my seemingly endless, fast, long, bottom turns and back upppppp. you know it's big when everyone heading out suddenly bears off.

4 kiters jibed onto the monster in front of me. they chose a mean one, more westerly than the others and I could see it was going to throw hard. the white water was so powerful it flattened the chop making my wave ultra smooth. after it closed out I sailed around a riderless kiteboard, a windsurfer swimming (no gear), a windsurfer hanging on to his gear. I can only imagine what mayhem that wave caused at lowers.

lowers on big tuesday - mauiwindcam

I checked on the kiter who was safely out of trouble. "you ok?" I yelled to which he responded, "holy sh*t!!" he was shaken but uninjured so I pointed to where his board was getting worked in the middle. the kiters were making it stressful so I waited on the outside with ned0 (who just changed sponsors). he gave a friendly wave and charged a huge monster making it look ohhh so easy.

a couple hours later, on my last top turn I realized I was done but a voice said "just one more". as I set up to jibe the other voice said "oh, no you don't" ha ha! we've all been there so I changed my mind mid-jibe ending up riding thru the triangle. I think that was my wildest ride of the day but gratefully, the triangle treated me with love.

wednesday was considerably smaller. I headed out at 11am to get a session in before the predicted 50mph gusts arrived. uppers was not smooth. at times, the windswell was as big as the waves so I sailed for an hour. back on the beach my peeps gave me props for tuesday and said they were cheering for me when I charged deep for that 2nd macker. nice to have you looking out for me, thanks. they said the kiters went away after the big wave wiped them out. carnage was minimal and to quote a couple of the boys: "I looked down the face and said to myself - no one lives forever"; "I scared myself which doesn't happen very often".

ahhh, windsurfing...

I needed to burn off more calories (winter love handles are a bit too lovely) so I opted for a 2nd session at lowers. the wind was wildly gusty, the waves fun and as I headed out with one of the pros thru the lower channel I fell going over a 1m high double wave. he looked back smiling while shaking his head. as I was getting worked, I thought how can I ride 5m waves and not make it over that? lowers was fun though my last bottom turn was more like a slalom reach so I called it a day.

gp's nite session before big tuesday

spring it here. how can I tell since I live in perpetual summer? it's bikini sailing again, the birds seem extra happy (if you know what I mean), pros are here for 0'12 shoots, days longer = the late session even more fun. gp proves my point. love this shot.

here's hoping all your transitions (gorgeous or not) get you where you want to go...

2011-03-14T23:11:00.009-10:00

OMG! will they EVER open kanaha?

heard sprecks was yucky and murky today and with 4m waves tomorrow sprecks might be a monster. I've gotten my arse kicked there = injured, lost a contact lens and swam.

if it's closing out at ho'okipa tomorrow expect kanaha to be a parking nightmare. hope the county doesn't give out parking tickets. kuau boys counted 20+ sails the other day (that's a lot of traffic).

arg3 & den11

today, I was fortunate enough to join some of the big boys at one of their secret spots. they didn't seem to mind. super smooth, caught a few shoulder high waves on the 85 dc aka loop board and 5.0 icon. light, bit on shore and plenty of fun. us10 was giving a wave lesson, arg3, us808, den11 were training. rumor has it if it's huge the secret spot will be sweet but best not miss an outside jibe or it'll be a pounding.

us808 said he got the boat out of the harbour on thursday nite and stayed on it until 17hr friday. the surging continues as he watched the tide go 1m up/down today while getting the boat ready for spring break business.

looks like big waves and big wind this week, wish me luck...

2011-03-11T23:41:00.012-10:00

yes, the earthquakes and tsunami are all we can talk about. I've looked for video and the surging wasn't dramatic so here is my favorite of the firefighters getting a kanaha sea turtle back where she belongs. I think I saw her hit the lip on a big westerly set yesterday. go girl, go....

read the article here

last nite I was surprisingly not watching trashy reality tv (3 days until the bachelor picks his fav) when the tsunami warning came up on the screen. oh, another tsunami. suddenly, my phone rang giving me a start but you know me, getting to my phone is always a challenge so it of course went to vmail (see you aren't the only one). it was a call from tokyo, japan giving me immediate feedback as to how bad things really were telling me to be careful and evacuate to safety.

seeing the news put me into action. I called my boss requesting refuge waaaaay up in kula. what to pack? most of my prize possessions are already in big momma so it was $$, laptop, few days of clothing, passport (nightmare to replace besides it has cool stamps), and I was out the door before the 1st warning siren.

cars lined the kihei highway at gas stations, I took the puunene shortcut thru paia where there were lines for gas with the minitstop backed up from baldwin light to the fire station. mana and restaurants closed.

safely in kula my phone started beeping so thanks all of you for caring that paradise might not have been as such.

didn't get much sleep as the military helicopters flew overhead not sure where they were headed, the tsunami siren woke me up hourly, and general anxiety filled the house as other refugees arrived. I figured I'd be selling "I survived the 0'11 tsunami" tshirts or I'd be shoveling mud today so I finally dozed off waking up early to the smell of fresh coffee and the sound of the news.

the morning view from kula showed boats out of both harbours, a huge debris filled swirly eddy looking thing outside kahului harbour (yuck), road to lahaina closed, other nasty stuff happening, s.kihei road closed, 6' surge of water into kahului all the way to the post office, paia very little damage, sprecks houses took on some water (david, sure it'll be all ready upon your arrival), so it was time to head to work.

everyone was tired, many tourists slept in their cars either up baldwin ave. or in pukalani. the green banana had a steady stream of coffee drinkers sharing stories. I saw white caps on my way down the hill and wondered when they'd get the parks open. but for those who couldn't wait, they climbed the rocks at ho'okipa, kuau was a popular spot and kiters rode the point at ho'okipa. what you say? how can that be? yes, a former windsurfer turned kiter came in saying he launched early at lanes kiting ho'okipa with a few kiters and a windsurfer. with the mama's cam not working I was out of luck witnessing this very rare event. I'm sure someone got photos. around 16hr only a few windsurfers showed up on the kanaha cam.

some pics to show how much water came up into kanaha to displace the sweet sea turtle.

aerial view

I'm back in kihei, it's late, I'm tired so I'll tell you about my 3 days on the simmer quad next time (yes, uppers was huge yesterday and ohhh so much fun). in all seriousness, I'm grateful for my life, safety and send prayers to those who are suffering.

be safe and take care...

2011-03-08T11:29:00.005-10:00

road to kanaha

rain, rain, more rain and then there was wind...

me? you know rain never bothers me. I've had some of my favorite sessions in the rain. today the sun is shining, the wind is solid so this entry will be short and sweet (just like me). how long will it hold? who knows but with high surf advisory arriving wed/thurs the island is back to it's happy windsurfing hum.

yesterday, 5.0 icon was perfect for me though I admit to working hard on occasion. I'm glad the waves were small because it gave me an easy 1st session on the 75liter simmer board.

simmer 75 quad happy in big momma

yes, I have taken possession!

yes, it was very, very fun!

yes, I hit the lip! (only because it was a low-penalty day at uppers)

yes, it is robin's egg blue! why? maybe it was the only color laying around? same color as ola's eyes?

yes, more pics to follow!

here are my fav shots by jimmie hepp from last week.

shawna enjoying ho'okipa

j11

s10 gets fashion points for his blue/white ensemble

s10 is not on simmer but yes, simmer makes his sails (looks alot like an icon). he is a very big man, his wife is also a pro windsurfer so I'm guessing their son will most likely find himself hitting the lip and racing one day.

the designer himself jumps over the horizon. he doesn't get much publicity but he's the man and rips just as hard as the rest of the goya crew.

us10 is back from baja

I asked us10 about this pic wondering what the heck ferdinando was doing. us10 told me he waved him onto the wave and it was all friendly. nice to see us10 having free time since he's been busy teaching, distributing and being a dad. he's ripping on the 0'11 91 liter da curve quad. I can't wait to get the 74.

here's one reason many pros live here, I live here (okay jaws will always be out of my reach) and why maui is the mecca of windsurfing.

yes, it's windy so I'm out the door to see if more fins are more fun!

ps - found your spreader bar so if you want to sail let me know...

2011-03-02T23:23:00.044-10:00

this guy's been graffitied all over paia. love his water wings.

on charley's construction fence

on side of sailboards maui

speaking of charley's here is what it looks like, still not open heard they are waiting for the lights. it will be paid parking, paia is a-changin'.

no lights and no more mango tree

to keep with the sup theme, here is a vid from sunset beach that has been floating around. ouch, that's gotta hurt.

more entertainment - eye candy no matter how you look at it.

there was wind today! proper, real wind - 4.2 1st session then 4.7 2nd session a bit onshore but fully powered. sprecks was fantastic and shawna reported ho'okipa was great. ahhh, windsurfing is so much fun even better in my bikini. oops, think I got sunburnt.

2011-03-01T19:37:00.002-10:00

thanks, alexis for reminding everyone fashion first! not sure which pair of stilettos I am willing to sacrifice for my favorite sport. how about all those visits to ding king?

2011-02-23T13:41:00.017-10:00

can you see my swim?

do you dream of what you want your life to look like? do you have a bumper sticker that says "I'd rather be ____" (fill in the blank) or when you see one do you nod your head in agreement? I admit there are days I would rather be _____ but truth be told my life is full and I am surrounded by others who choose to live their dream. it's not always easy but then again I can't think of anything I'd rather be doing...

sprecks baja style

windorwithout is the perfect title to my life because these day it's either rig big or wax your board. last week shawna and I met for coffee (after she surfed ho'okipa) then headed to sprecks but it was junky so on to kanaha.

prepared to take out our longboards we opted to practice light wind wave sailing. my light wind skills have not been utilized much on maui so it was great. as we launched we re-considered but you know me "we're rigged, let's go for it" which led to a few great waves, weeble wobble jibe practice, uphauling and one long swim in. as we headed out to catch another set everyone headed in, I didn't think much of it until I caught a rail on that beautifully smooth wave and I came up realizing shawna couldn't even uphaul. it was looking as if I would get to say hello to the kite candy but an sup'r kindly offered me a tow. just like the love snowboarders have for skiers when it's long/flat, I have a new love for sup'rs. thanks wade! we dumped our gear and paddled out on longboards for a fun surf session.

so many cranky windsurfers and you know me I'm not all that keen on complainers. working for vela baja prior to learning to windsurf showed me how windsurfers can let conditions dictate their emotional state.

there are 'without' things to do in my life such as taking the 10m long bouganvilla hedge down to a more manageable height. yes, it was a gnarly job.

I drove to grandma's to read a book, make a few overdue phone calls and enjoy the whales. as I put on my 'sunbathing only' bikini I saw 1m+/- sets come thru so grabbed my 9' beauty and paddled out. it was a bit murky but perfect size for me. I had it to myself for 2.5hrs with a smattering of surfers on/off. I rode right (not very well) then I rode left (a bit better). how can any windsurfer complain when life is this great?

big waves sent most people to kanaha with a few braving the double overhead sets at ho'okipa. yes, that was shawna and my boss, keith, out there. I know something big is happening when I'm heading to work and pass, h98, michi schweiger, dave kalama's car loaded with gear, and plenty of other rigs with boards sticking out. as much as my friends encourage me I'm still hesitant to add yet another board to big momma not that she can't handle it but (big rebecca sigh).

dave is loaded

sup might not be for me

yesterday, I saw ho'okipa reading 16mph, I finished the smoked salmon and headed to kanaha in hopes the 5mph on-shore reading would change by the time I got there. these days, sloggable = windy. the 85 da curve/5.0 icon and I planed for a few meters but more importantly, caught a bunch of waves before doing my 1st walk of shame. then as I was ready to take the 9' beauty out the wind picked up so it was back on the water (glad I stayed rigged). as I eyed uppers I heard the little voice in my head saying "oh no, don't go there it's late and the swim is 1.5hrs instead of .5hrs" so I joined the 7 other sailors at lowers and 1 surfer. a perfect day to put into practice what shawna taught me last week about light/no wind wave sailing - making sure I'm forward enough to get the nose down, bear off. the 85 da curve has more rocker than the custom pocket I'm used to in light winds so it requires a different stance and balance. not afraid of the 30min swim I caught everything I could from waist to mast high even ending up way past the lifeguard shack on one long beauty.

us3 gave me props and I was surprised to see him cruising the easy stuff at kanaha. the talk on the beach has been "who's that on the ezzy ripping?" because let's be honest we are all surprised to see him on ezzy. I think it was darryl who gave me a shout as he, us3 and I were last on the water. I was barely puttering along but didn't feel badly since kai hopf was also slogging (on race gear). after 5 tack attempts to get back to where I launched and being denied due to fast current+no wind I told my stubborn side to cut it out then shamefully landed in the forbidden swim zone.

yesterday's walk of shame for rebecca = 2 times.

andi, not much gossip but...

kv11 @ simmer

us34, nedo enjoyed the light winds to test world cup gear; kv11 and a few of the boys were testing masts at la perouse. let's just say it's a good thing the masts held because it's all lava rock, in and out of the water but ned0 said there is that "one" place to get in and out of which isn't that hard unless you break a mast then it's bye bye to your gear as you get sucked over the rocks. no carnage reported; arg3 is on island sporting his new colors. shawna and I said 'hi' as we paddled our surfboards by him as he slogged in at lowers; kt aka up and down ran in simmer for some sunblock, us3 told me retirement is great, he'll miss the boys but has plenty of windsurf travel plans as well as photography jobs; the american windsurf tour will see plenty of us3 action; is kv11 trying to keep customers out or what? that dude is big! no, he wasn't trying to sabotage we were watching the hula dancers. s10 (another big dude) stopped in to pick up his gear. simmer makes his sails though they aren't simmer sails. non windsurfing sightings; julien fillion is humble, funny, nice and easy on the eyes. what? you know I have a hard time resisting kite candy; owen wilson has been enjoying fatherhood; steven tyler was courteous to fans while having lunch in paia.

shawna and tatiana's video for their upcoming women's clinics on maui (april 26-may 2) and fiji (may 28-june4)

I hope your valentine's day was as full of love and romance as mine. carbon, flowers, chocolate, pizza delivered, bottle of wine emptied and the bachelor is one step closer to finding love. yes, the sticker on big momma reads: "quit your job, buy a ticket, get a tan, fall in love, never return". what can I say? I'm a dreamer...

2011-02-14T19:13:00.005-10:00

the only good use for a broken thingamajiggy

happy valentine's day!

2011-02-09T23:23:00.009-10:00

happy hump day

that means wednesday aka getting over the mid-week hump. for those of us who live in the whale migration zone it's hump day every day from november-march. never do I think 'oh, just another whale jumping around.' every time I see one even way on the horizon I feel the amazement of my life. just like the humpbacks I returned to baja for 6 years and now have joined a different humpback family on maui though it's been awhile since I've migrated. not much wind last week which made for great whale watching with friends.

let's get into it shall we?

you know it's big when ka7 rigs wave gear. most think of him as one of the fastest but few know he loves big waves, the bigger the better. I felt a touch of confidence when he threw me a shaka as I sailed into position. our relationship goes back to the beginning of my love for waves. he coached me on my very first real maui wave, waist high at sprecks. I smiled back too stressed to remove a hand from the boom. the best thing about catching waves with the pros is that they know I'm spastic and are capable of getting out of the way as well as watching them imprints the proper way to sail. after a couple of hours of endless waves it was time to eat so I joined the newly engaged (congrats) k89, us808, and us3 (when's the big day?) for dinner. k89 said he's off the slalom tour, we all know us3 is off pwa but will be on the 'underground tour', us808 is ready for vietnam.

I need more wind

long stretches without wind makes my surname more evident; 'grosso' = 'large' and if the wind doesn't blow regularly I won't be able to fit into my new bikinis (thanks pancho). yes, I have had the pleasure to spend time with the very nice, handsome, hard core pancho sullivan. this video is a few years old, he's still ripping but no longer on tour.

no, I still haven't tested the simmer boards. I was too tired and had used up all my go-get-'em when us33 offered the 75 but in return I offered the 5.1 blacktip already rigged and ready. I'll have you know it was "rigged perfectly" after a quick boom exchange he took it and gave it to an oahu team rider. I'm a bit sad but have moved on - sometimes it's best to just let go...

5.1 black tip 75 simmer quad

uppers is loved by a few of us who are willing to risk it as well as embrace her personality. we are a tribe within a tribe so to speak and when you hear grumbling about uppers you can be sure it's someone who's not in our tribe. no matter how gnarly, smooth, big or small she gets we love her unconditionally. thursday's slog/plane session was 4.7/74 and required guts, timing and luck. you know how I enjoy the west waves so the long slog was worthwhile. position was key as was deciding whether to slog into the over mast high sets hoping for perfect timing or be heckled by my tribe when I let that GIGANTIC set go right on under the sweet 74. trust me, I could not have pumped to make it without carnage. I was satisfied to catch the next set and glad to report broken gear for rebecca = none.

big waves + no wind = carnage.

carnage reported: 2 broken unis resulting in long swims, 2 broken masts, 1 sail sucked out to sea, 1 broken extension, nedo got pounded and was seen in the pit without his gear but like most pros returned to the beach, replaced his batten and went out for more. lifeguards were busy all the way up until 16hr. keith was behind me on a few sets and all I can say is those ezzy sails are bomb proof because when I made my top turn I saw him get gobbled by the giant white water on the next wave. it wasn't the only time I saw his gear going over the falls. I made sure I was off the water in time for girl's nite as I did my best to make my hair presentable, replace sunblock with makeup. luckily, the first wives of windsurfing understand my passion so if I'm running down the street in stilettos looking like a drowned cat they shake their heads but still love me. the hunky k42 joined us though not a girl we didn't mind having a token male.

work has been busy, men dutifully buying valentine's presents while looking for 5.0-5.6 used sails for bargain prices. the icon has been so well received there are only a few left. I used the 5.0 icon yesterday for the 1st time. it was just what I needed for the early session along with the 85 liter da curve aka 'loop' board (that's another story) to get me over the white water. shawna sailed with me which I was grateful for since it was B-I-G.

as we launched she reminded me 'timing is everything especially thru the channel'. tell me about it, my life has taken a few challenging turns when my timing has been wrong. I sailed way on the outside to watch the 1st big set come in so I could see how it was breaking then went after the smaller set behind it which was great fun over head high with 6 or so turns, smooth, uncrowded. the 5.0 was easy to use though the battens popped which gave me a start on my first jibe. for me it wasn't about throwing spray or being overly aggressive because the loop board is a bit big for me to do much else but rip a deep smooth bottom turn.

wave after wave we headed out thru the channel with my timing just right then it was time to charge for the 4th wave of a very big set so shawna jibed down wind of me to hop on as another girl picked the upwind position. it got bigger, bigger and bigger until it was mast & 1/2 high. the three of us managed to keep it all to ourselves. I've had the loop board in big stuff before and it turns like butter though I have to remember to keep speed and drive with my front leg. we went down in unison and on the 3rd big bottom turn I looked up at the lip thinking 'oh sh*t, this thing is going to throw' so I quickly redirected the loop board thanking us10 for it's outstanding design just as I heard the overhead high white water crash. I bent my knees, leaned back just a bit and prepared to be overtaken looking up wind/down wind to see if the other two made it. shawna let out a happy holler, I gave the thumbs up to the girl upwind who gave a wave. it was so big we rode the re-break for a few more turns.

happy new year - chinese lion blesses the simmer shop

my chinese zodiac sign says 'does not like adrenaline' so it must not be all that accurate. yes, I charged a few more but none were as big. yes, I chix jibed when I saw nori hubbs chix jibe in front of me. yes, I was overpowered and too lazy to re-rig or go get the 74. yes, I hope to do it again very soon. yes, it got crowded so I parked on the outside watching everyone grab the first few waves and focused on riding the set waves.

very big waves = pros slumming at kanaha.

too many sail #s to report, if they weren't at lowers they were at jaws except for us3 and us10 who were enjoying their secret wave. one that I've seen from a distance and longingly looked at. I can't tell you where it is but word on the beach is that if you've ever seen us10 ride it he owns it. he told me it was one of the best days he's had in the last 2 years.

today was no wind so it was a couple of hours at the hair salon, yes, I pay someone to make me look this good then romantic pupus/sunset date at cafe o'lei. tomorrow? sounds like I'll be paddling out to lowers in an attempt to surf the re-break while the girls sup in the bigger stuff.

viva amor

if she says she doesn't care about valentine's day she's just testing you so don't fall for her nonchalant attitude and do something anyway. you know my motto 'nothing says I love you like carbon.' I do a lot of recycling to make up for that statement...

2011-02-07T08:56:00.002-10:00

just one of life's warnings...

batman is rumored to be training for jaws but hasn't tried windsurfing yet.

if batman isn't adrenaline enough for you check out the oakley big wave competition held in margaret river, down under and the perth now gallery. go big or go home batman!

margaret river tom dosland on 'the right' pic: kerby brown

as I type this the clock ticks away, I'm in my jammies with 6 minutes to get out the door. yes, I promise I'll take care of you soon but until then this is how super bowl sunday is spent on maui compliments of ben jamin' jones and gp.

hey, dia de amor is coming so don't forget.

2011-01-31T22:06:00.001-10:00

there's been quite a bit of talk about south america in my life lately. for your entertainment here's another mark vissler video.

today was huge waves, north wind but just not enough to get out so I fixed a flat tire, got safety check, and enjoyed the bachelor with a glass of pinot. he's down to 8 and I have my top 3 chosen. truth is my life is a bit of a wreck right now but I'll be back with you as soon as I can. be patient and know that I care but until then gp will entertain.

north shore

I always have enough time for a maui sunset or two.

south shore

2011-01-25T01:01:00.005-10:00

no baggy battens - especially important at my age

you know I love mondays!

today, after work I had a crazy fun late session at lowers with only 6 of us out and a handful of kiters in the mix. yes, I took the 0'11 photoshoot black tip 5.1 from the shop. yes, the boys were looking for it but possession is 9/10ths of the law right? yes, it is the perfect 'big sail' for my quiver. yes, it was the right choice for today until it got wildly windy then it was all I could do to hang on. any sane person would have re-rigged but you know me, a bit stubborn (or is it lazy?) the 5.1 was soooo easy to handle in the head to logo/mast high waves even as I wrestled it out of the hands of the white water. I happily had a witness as I hit the lip (my girly version there of). I can see why this sail is all the buzz - hope the boys don't want it back. word has it that maybe, just maybe I'll get the 75 simmer quad under my arm. us33 and ola helenius, the shaper, are here working hard to make the boards amazing.

rudy catches a big one - pics jimmie hepp

jaws, jaws and more jaws. redbull boys in town, loads of skis getting gassed up, everyone telling stories, posting pics, videos of those who paddled in, towed-in, sup'd, windsurfed. it's another amazing winter on maui.

no, I didn't go to watch jaws last thursday (jan 20th), I went windsurfing! yes, it was huge at lowers and yes I went out but I didn't realize how big it was until I looked down the line on the wave I was about to share and thought 'hey, that guy is tearing it up - oh, sh*t it's pascal!' so mesmerized by him I missed the drop in and had to catch the even bigger scarier wave behind me. at one point I was following goya designer, jason diffin, out but chix jibed. my ego is not so big that it has to take on logo high white water nor is my skill level.

rudy on the run - jan 20

the only choices were: jaws or lowers. even the sprecks boys were at lowers. to be honest I was mostly focused on my own huge wave survival but on the way out when the channel was small, I could relax and watch everyone going big, jake busting huge forwards and the pros I didn't see where at jaws.

yes, that was me with the pretty pink toe nails (matching the 74) on the yellow 4.7 missionx with the tabou sticker who almost took you both out. I was right where I needed to be and maybe, just maybe, I should not have taken that top turn down the line but you were both slogging so I figured hey, why not then cut back and ride the left. guess I underestimated how BIG it was, definitely underestimated it loading and throwing. as that monster closed out with me in it, I hung on to the boom as long as I could hoping to slow down the gear so it would not take you out like dominoes until it ripped out of my hands. I finally popped up, looked back to see you both still upright and gave thanks before starting my long swim. no harm no foul? sorry...

please play the sound track to the movie jaws while watching the above video. wonder what he's going to do next.

ben took some pics of lowers before we headed for food - that medium rare mambo burger never tasted so good.

jake miller finished his video of lord of the wind showdown. makes miss my baja peeps.

not sure what the wind will do this week. tomorrow I have a meeting with the olukai rep, working wednesday (what?), guests arrive thursday, friday it's back to work for the weekend. super busy but haven't forgotten you and will do my best to give you some lovin'.

is january almost over? so glad I'm living the life I want to live...

2011-01-19T10:10:00.003-10:00

ben's pics of haleakala this morning

this week I've needed my fabulous mt hardwear rain jacket, bikini, sunblock, shorty, simmer sherpa hoodie. now it's time to unpack the uggs.

ben, thanks for the pics!

us10 the man in charge in baja

photo lori makabe

eh, brah! us10 said he is also missing some extensions/bases. what's up with that? keeping mine is well, not right but to walk off with his is just down right wrong.

the big waves are still coming though looks like friday will be the day for real wind and my job will get in the way. you can feel a little badly for me...

2011-01-17T07:47:00.000-10:00

us3 takes the money on a 2cam freeride sail at lord of the wind showdown in los barriles, baja

makes me miss baja but then again maui isn't so bad...

2011-01-16T22:55:00.009-10:00

this is why I didn't leave the house on 13th january with roads closed no where to go besides I was super sick. pretty sure it was from the chocolate milk sailing the day before. bleck.

she mentions a paddle boarder went by here he is...

the north shore water didn't look too bad over the weekend but the funky stuff could be seen in the current going into paia bay then out and in towards baldwin beach.

yesterday pascal and mark j were spotted at kuau sailing. da boyz said jaws was breaking today with sup and surfers (no skis) out, it was westerly and wasn't 'huge' but if you ask me 6x overhead is a very big wave especially to paddle into. next time you get an ahi burger @ fish market know that your chef probably paddled jaws on his 10'6" quad 'gun' shaped by sean ordonez. now that's a fish burger!

it's raining again with the wind forecasted to blow up to 50mph tonite over here on the southside. hope the banana trees can stay upright.

looks like very big waves heading this way as well as wind. I emptied big momma tonite since sees the mechanic tomorrow and hoping she'll be ready ready to roll soon because it looks like we could be in for some fun.

there can be only one...

hanalei kauai 2 jan 0'10 billabong xxl