Far And Away, notes from the Rogue.

"My best friend gave me the best advice,
He said each day's a gift and not a given right.
Leave no stone unturned, leave your fears behind
And try to take the path less traveled by.
That first step you take is the longest stride."
       -Nickelback, If Today Was Your Last Day

   When you have a plan that has several pieces that must fall into place, patience is key. This brief return to the Shore was not for upbeat reasons. A close friend was dying. Cancer. An enemy within. Never good. A reminder of how brief this life can be.

Stayed by her side. Cruised the Pines. Did a surf check. Caught the sunset. Ate some seafood. Spent time with Daughter and our Granddaughter. Had lunch with my surf bro. Returned to her bedside with friends and family. Life is short, and can make dreams and desires of the future seem far and away. Increased my sense of urgency to return to the island by the Atlantic. My wife is onboard. Her at home job/employer supportive of any move. Another piece in place. Several interviews scheduled. Spearin Road home being shown. Looking at potential new homes. Faith, patience, and timing. Broken record? No. Truth.

The "whale." Largest soft
crab available. Crabs-To-Go...
Get it boy!

Oysters, salmon, tuna...can't get enough good seafood.

   Raise a beer. Tribute. Fin City Brewing's Blackfin is a striking Black IPA. Opaque black pour with a light brown, 2-finger plus head. Thick lacing. Very prominent aroma of roasted coffee with the light citrus of hops in this baby. Tastes like a hoppy stout, but the 6% ABV does not make it a heavy. Sweet chocolate and more coffee. Love coffee. I had this several times from a tap. Rich. full bodied but crisp at 56 IBUs. Surprised I haven't rated this before. Rated an A-. Nice brew.

Assawoman Bay Brewing Company. Proof that the OC needs another brewery. Bayside Blonde, a hazy gold light Pale Ale at just over 20 IBUs. I've had this as a draft as well, and surprisingly it was better from the bottle. Smelled of grain and honey. Tastes of sweet malt with light bitterness. 5.25% alcohol keeps this refreshing without a smackdown. Lotta the reviews didn't like this one. I thought it was purty good. Rated a B.

"Each day's a gift..."
Miss you Sandy.