A couple of weeks ago we were  walking around North Park looking for the "Greetings from San Diego" mural when we stumbled upon Shaper Studios. It is tucked behind Belching Beaver a local brewery here in San Diego. We weren't sure what it was all we saw was surf boards and I was instantly intrigued. Walking in I was greeted by the most friendly employee I believe his name was Trevor (I have a horrible memory so I could be wrong) I saw three different rooms with surfers working on surfboards , awesome surf magazines and the smell of the Pacific. The friendly employee  gave Carlos and I  a run down of the studio - you  can shape your own surfboard (that's surf talk for make your own) with the assistance of their knowledgeable employees who of course happen to be surfers basically a DIY surf shop. This was one of the coolest places I've ever been to in a while. They were all so friendly and inviting that I for a second felt like one of them (a surfer) unfortunately as I walked out I remembered I cannot swim so that's how that goes , however Carlos will definitely be back to make his own surfboard. If you're in San Diego this place is a must to visit. 

You can also follow them on Instagram 

(This sign is on 30th & El Cajon in North Park)

03 / Torrey Pines

El Niño finally gave us a break on Saturday and we decided to go for a hike. We headed out to Torrey Pines around 2 and parked on a side street close to the park for free. The tide was out so we started off on the beach and climbed our way up. It was a little muddy but who cares when the ocean is right in front of you. The park wasn't too crowded so I was able to stop and snap pics. The climb was a little steep but it's easy to follow and there are a lot of places to stop and enjoy the view- there are a handful of benches to sit on as well. Torrey Pines is a beautiful hike and we will definitely go back. 

What are your favorite parks to hike in California or SoCal area?

After burning a billion calories we indulged in some yummy burritos at Roberto's .

02 / Venice Beach

We decided to ring in the new year in the city of angels with Morrissey aka Moz who played at the Galan Center at USC. The next day we drove over to Venice Beach to walk around and obsess over surfers and skaters. Venice was everything you see in the movies - crowded , full of beach cruisers and palm trees. Just beautiful I would definitely go back and rent a place on the beach. So much to see from the shops to people watching. Shops were filled with trinkets, dream catchers and colorful Mexican blankets which I snatched up for $11. California you're starting to wow me.