The morning began with a five-minute walk to Aquarius, a beach-front dining establishment my dear friend turned me on to the morning before. It is odd to see the sun rise over the Pacific, but really pleasant none-the-less.
A few miles off and one can see the sunset to the west, as one would expect. This day was simply to explore, with nothing planned but three walks and my last day of over-indulgence.
All goals were met. My walk downtown was awesome, but captured for a later day.
With my first week at my client’s surreal site complete, I know precisely what I need to do. I am re-reading the Art of Influence to help me with that task in a hyper-competitive environment.
I sipped strong black coffee and a mimosa as the homeless awoke on the steps leading to the beach in full view from my table. What a contrast we have here.
The Crab Benedict exceeded expectations. After breakfast, in blinding sunshine, I snapped a few shots. Then went home for a nap.
I was awoke to a band – lead, bass and drums, warming up to classic Ventures type surf music. I thought it was the neighbors, but in reality it was the start of a neighborhood block party – with a blocked off street and Santa Cruz police, invited to the feast, of course.
The music proved to be mesmerizing, not invited, sitting on the front porch with wine, berries and cheese. I pulled out my Tasmin high-definition recorder and captured more than a few tracks.
Likely I would violate copyright if I posted them, but I may anyway as the music brought me back to life. The group is the awesome Mermen – google them.
After the set, I wandered back to Cliff Drive in an afternoon overcast but a warm breezy day.
I got some got video of the surfers at sunset and some totally unknown to me new thing, twirling stick-like things to weird reggae-rap tunes only a kid would know. The pungent smell of pot filled the air.
OK – let’s get one thing straight. This is paradise, but I am working in the most challenging and competitive environment ever. There is a price to pay to live here (but it is well worth it).
