Cold Stop, from the Rogue's notebook.

It was, as I have said, a fine autumnal day; the sky was clear and serene, and nature wore
that rich and golden livery which we always associate with the idea of abundance.
   -Washington Irving*, The Legend of Sleepy Hollow
Ocean Pines serenity. South Gate entrance, 11/16/2018. 

   Couple of weeks since Standard Time started. Nor'easter hit the coast earlier in the week and brought with it a cold front that has frosted up the Pines. With the pinch of cold comes the color of fire before the the tree lines go completely bare. A veritable stage for quoting Irving*. Also serves as a reminder... haven't hit the surf for a few weeks. And, there has been some decent swell along the Right Coast. I miss weekend sessions. Water usually calmer as the wind has not yet gotten on it Currently in the upper 50's, which would not be too bad. Only rubber suits allowed though. C'mon brah!

Bayside AM conditions check.

   Nice warmers out there. Local brewer Fin City has got their Bad Luck Banana. Chocolate Porter set at 6.0% to raise the body temp without knockin' you on your ass. I found I liked this better canned (a hair sweeter), than on tap (a bit dryer). Poured a near black with a brown finger and a half, foam head. Thick lacing. Aromas of malty cocoa, smoke, and banana. The toasted malts stronger in taste that included a little coffee, more chocolate, and a hint of banana. Enjoyed the bittersweet finish enhanced by the 34 IBUs in hops. Not good to have bananas around if you wanna catch fish, but this brew will keep ya warm while tryin'. Rated an A-.

He was naturally a thirsty soul, and

was soon tempted to repeat the 

draught. One taste provoked another, 

and he reiterated his visits to the flagon

so often, that at length his senses were

overpowered, his eyes swam in his 

head, his head gradually declined, 

and he fell into a deep sleep.

-Washington Irving*, Rip Van Winkle