not that any of you care, but to answer Izzy's question:

I've surfed for about 17 years.  Grew up 2 blocks from the beach.  Competed in ESA and NSSA competitions including a trip to the nationals (where I got my ass handed to me).  Lived 4 years in Santa Barbara, CA.  Trips to Costa Rica, Mexico, Puerto Rico, New Zealand, plus numerous trips all over the east and west coast.  I wouldn't stand out at a place like Steamers but I would definitely turn a few heads.

Now I don't live at the beach (though I will again as of October) A few surf trips in the last few years to quench my thirst.  But I'm 2 hours from some of the best paddling in the world, so that quenches my thirst for now...