Catalina

I haven't had time to recollect my awesome time on Catalina Island with my friend Mary because I've been having a great time since then!  Well, until I got back to work and my laptop won't talk to Verizon...

Anyway, back to Catalina.  I was a little nervous about going with Mary because we've only hung out once with just the two of us.  We've spent most of our time together with our (ex-)boyfriends, or just in groups.  And, honestly, other than being doctors and interested in sci-fi, I'm not sure that we have much in common.  It turns out that some people with doctorates, especially those who like sci-fi, are smart and interesting to talk to!  Even more, she's a woman who's had much experience in the straight bar scene.  This is a scene that I'm just barely stepping in to, so I was eager to learn from one so wise in the ways of Drunk Boys.  Plus, Mary LOVES Catalina and has spent loads of time there, so I knew that she'd be a great tour guide.  We met a few weeks prior to the trip to figure out our plans, and it was clear that she totally knew her way around the island, knew all of the good spots and great spots.  I took notes. 

I'm not joking.  I took notes on my phone.

Our trip started early to get the ferry, which Mary was expert at getting us to and finding us free parking.  We talked easily for the hour trip, and neither of us were seasick.  After checking in, we went to a delicious Mexican restaurant for lunch.  I had ceviche!  She also told me the history of the restaurant's owners. 

Next, we went kayaking.  That was fun, and we didn't tip over!  Even when confronted by boat wakes.  Unfortunately, I didn't put enough sunblock on my legs, so they got burned.  After kayaking, we laid on the beach.  Mary was worried about getting burned, so she went back to the room for a nap and shower.  I rested more on the beach, then went back, too. 

We went to a tiny bar/restaurant for dinner.  I think that I got ceviche again!  She also knew the history of that restaurant!  For our nightlife activity, we went to her regular bar.  There, she taught me how to get free drinks from men.  And told me that I didn't have to feel beholden to the guys, or worry about leading them on.  She said that the guys bought us drinks so that we'd talk to them; cool, I can live with that.  Mostly older guys bought me drinks, but that's fine.  Since Mary knew the bartenders, I kept asking them what they were making.  They'd pour any extra into a glass for me, and give it to me for free!  I was very, very giggly by the end of the night.  There was some sort of milkshake type drink (that I kept calling Mudders' Milk) that was super-tasty!  I also liked the Washington Apple drink.

The next morning, we went to a pancake place for breakfast and people-watched.  I didn't have a hangover, but was exhausted.  It was hard to keep up conversation, I was so tired.  We went on an easy hike to an empty mausoleum (again, Mary knew the story behind that) after breakfast, then got in line for the ferry back home.  Mary slept on the way back, and I read.  And I wasn't sick of her; it'd be easy to get irritated with someone after such a busy 36 hours of traveling!

I slept hard that night, but then flew to Vegas the next day!  The trip to Catalina was so fun, though.  Mary was the perfect person to take me through Catalina, and to teach me about straight bars and free drinks.