Time in the Catlins is so therapeutic. Especially as we wind up to the manic run into Xmas. For me that feeling has been compounded by travelling so much that I feel like I've been living out of rental cars and waking up in strange places for the entire tail end of this year. I've been bouncing through my own home like some kind of restless gypsy.
So a few sessions in the Catlins was good therapy. On the last one I rattled off a few shots before taking some "me time" with my eldest daughter Taya, my son Keo, and my mate Lee Morris and his daughter Jada.
We found a remote point break that was offering some 3-5 foot howlers. We had one of the most memorable sessions I've had in the Catlins. Introducing our children to a wave that has given us both so many good vibes from way back in our own youth, Lee and I were in some kind of nostalgic state. I felt like a grom again running to the jump rock and hooting as sets wailed past us. We possibly freaked the kids out.
We found our way into the lineup as the tide, swell and wind peaked. Some windy, but nicely shaped peelers and a crowd that constantly diminished. Every now and then a 5 foot set would roll in. Usually Lee would take the first wave and shred it to the inside and I would get pitched on the second. The kids would pick up the scraps. We were constantly busy; paddling, watching the groms get some of the biggest waves of their lives and soaking in something really special.
More of that please ...
See you at the beach ... Derek
PS We're working hard to get through all the orders before Xmas (thanks everyone who placed an order early). We wanted to remind you that we have our latest books and a range of ready to hang artworks in our gallery in central Dunedin. Our Xmas hours at the Box of Light Gallery are 10am to 2pm from Tuesday to Friday and then 8am until 12pm on Saturdays. Outside of that you'll need to make an appointment. Give us a call ...
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