One of the greatest joys of living in San Diego this summer is having good weather so I can be outside all the time. When I’m done with work for the day, I borrow Danny’s mountain bike and I explore The neighborhoods and back allies of Carlsbad, Leukadia, and Encinitas. Each beach town has a distinct flavor.

Exploring these streets gives me the same exhilaration that I got as a boy exploring the woods behind our house. On my bike I explore the shores of lagoons, along the railroad tracks, and under bridges. And since I’m a grown up now, I also look for fun restaurants for Candyce and I, and practical conveniences like an ATM or the Post Office. F

or most mornings this week I got up at seven and rode my bike down the PCH and get some coffee at a breakfast place for beach bums. Unlike Phoenix, it’s cloudy here in the morning, and it even rained earlier this week. For most people, rain is a real downer, but to me it’s the most exciting experience. As I warm up with my coffee, I flip through my new book about carpentry so I can learn how to do new things to my house: crown molding, wains coating, a trellis for vines and flowers. This may not seem like much to some people, but for me, these are the best mornings this side of heaven.