Summer Solstice Strawberry Moon

Today is the summer solstice combined with a full moon, the first such combination since 1948. It's the longest day of year and people will be partying at Stonehenge today as the sun reaches its northern most point on Earth before the rotation begins to give us shorter days starting tomorrow. Tonight's full moon is being called a Strawberry Moon as it coincides with the strawberry growing season according to Native American lore.
http://www.bbc.com/news/uk-england-wiltshire-36579438

What does this have to do with surfing? Nothing and everything.

The string of south swells that were forecast to arrive from below New Zealand has not materialized, yet, and the waves have been essentially non-existent, save for a few ankle biters on the sandbar. Still, many are taking to the water seeking summer fun and relief from rare ninety degree air temperatures.

Surf depends on waves that are created by distant storms and nearer winds. The direction and shape of waves are determined by the angles from which they arrive and the tide depths, exposure and other particular characteristics of the shore such as reefs, sand movement and more. It's all directly related to a land-water connection that surfers become attuned to. So we pay attention to how the elements of nature are affecting our planet. Very cosmic, in a sense. Very basic, for sure.

Most of us love to stare at the ocean and observe its nuances created mostly by wind. It's part of the deal and it keeps us grounded and ready for the next series of waves, whenever that might be.

The Monterey Bay is recipient of mostly northwest swells during the fall and winter months. Today's solstice, for local surfers, could be the beginning of the summer doldrums. Let's hope not.

In any event, may the next wave be yours.