Kibbles 'n Bits, notes from the Rogue.

Assawoman Glass, 11/23/2014

   Every time I hit the beach now, the pictures reveal what my mind already knows. My season is coming to an end. Until next spring, and Spring is a ways away. Water is in the low fifties. I could feel it. Over last week, I could feel it. A few degrees difference makes all the difference.

"One, keep paddling. Second, don't see it as a sport. See it more like learning a martial art. It is holistic in its scope and effects, and it is a lifelong pursuit."    -Alex Dick-Read                47th-48th Street Jetty, 11/23/2014.

Another fairly windless eve. Good thing. Lessens the chill. Waves? If last week's were morsels, this week's were kibbles and bits. The knees highs were the larger sets. Not much to write home about, but as this was potentially the last surf I'd get in a while, I graciously rode every opportunity. More squeeze than carve considering the size. And my beach town itself? Pretty quiet, empty road night. The OC is in full off season, and decked out in Christmas. Lights, garland, ornaments. Enjoy it while I can. Hear tell it's gonna be a cold winter. Just as well... another front approaching.

   Two brews to take the chill off tonight, boys 'n girls. Local Burley Oak's Funkus Saisonus, a Wild Ale with low IBUs (19) and a mid level alcohol content (5.4%), but in a 750 ml. bottle. Nice. Aged in French Oak. Formulated with sour cherries and lemon verbena. A very refreshing post surf beer. Pours a hazy gold with little head. Aromas of cherries and lemon with a tart finish. Takes some getting used to. B rating.

    Next the thermogenic to ease the tingling in the fingers and toes. Global Warmer from the Brooklyn "Beer Beasts" themselves, Sixpoint Brewing. Outrageous hop character at 70 IBUs and the 7% ABV does the antifreeze work. An Imperial Red Ale (love those Imperials!), that pours a reddish amber with a solid off-white two finger head.  Plenty of lacing.  Citrus-Pine notes with tastes of mango and grapefruit. Rated an A-.

"Some say the world will end in fire, 

some say in ice. From what I've tasted of

desire I hold with those who favor fire."

                                     -Six P.

"Signs, signs everywhere signs." Ya can't escape it. Tis the season...

Route 50 Entrance, OCMD 11/23/2014

Boardwalk Tram Station, 11/23.

Division Street, 11/23.

OC Downtown, 11/23/2014.