Summertime......

Summer came late to Southern California this year, but it's finally here.

I took a quick detour on my way to our second "Fall League" game -- a bit before 7:00pm.  The other side of the point in the foreground is Shaw's Cove, the best place to hit the sand in Laguna Beach, CA.

Growing up, I spent my summers on Shaw's.  It doesn't show in the picture, but the next cove is Fisherman's, then Diver's, then Picnic, Rockpile, and Main Beach.  All walking distance from my home.

Shorts and sandals.  Warm clothes, shoes and my broom in the back of the car.

We're off to an unfortunate start, 0-2.

I mentioned in a much earlier article that Curling is a blood sport.

While I haven't actually bled (much), I did slip during our first match this league, and hit the back of my head on the ice.  I was able to get up, finish the match, and then deal with sore muscles (and a nice bump) for the rest of the week.

I like my shoes, but I'm still getting used to proper curling shoes, and the slider definitely contributed to the fall.  Novice curlers probably shouldn't be in a big hurry to get proper shoes.

For those who haven't bought shoes, a pair of grippers (like these) are a good investment.  Most "tennis shoes" are made out of a synthetic that doesn't grip a whole lot when they're on a cold wet surface, and grippers are made from a material that stays soft and sticky.

Last week, it seemed like the ice was frostier than usual.  I have a small brush to keep my broom clean, and I used it also on my shoes.

I also bought a padded headband to give me a little bit of head protection.  It was made for soccer players and to protect the front, so I'm wearing it backwards.

I'll let you know when I actually "test" the padding.