Carter Lee has been my best friend since middle school. we surfed everyday since we met. i remember the days of riding my bicycle to his house, we’d run to the beach, surf till dark, then his mom use to make us hot meals. that was just the beginning. then we competed together, went to college together, worked together, surfed together, and did a lot of things together as our life evolved around surfing. Carter went on after to graduate from Law School and started a family. Conner was born and Conner was everything to him.
i took this photo of Carter and Conner back in 2001. OMG, that was 13 years ago!!! now Conner is all grown up, attending hawaii’s elite private high school, and is one of the states top wrestlers. he just started getting into surfing so when Carter invited me for a surf, i couldn’t and wouldn’t turn it down. it’s days like this that make my life so fulfilling.
we paddle out on this beautiful saturday. blue sky, clean water, warm, and sunny. at 17 years old, Conner is jumping into a life that only a surfer would know. a life that will keep him clean, healthy, and happy.
on the way out, we seen 2 manta rays just hanging out. good thing i had my camera!
what a great looking kid. not to mention, very respectful and well mannered. good parenting!
i watched Conner progressing after every wave he rode.
and after every wave he rode, i seen a smile in this kid that shined.
look at him putting his board on the rail already. this is how you do it! lean!
Conner going regular and Carter going goofy.
stoked to see Carter enjoying the ocean with his son. surfing will create an unbreakable bond and i’m sure this session will be remembered for a long time. and after Conner seeing his Dad ripping, i’m sure he has much more respect for him now.
on one wave, Carter almost ran over Conner. haha! i know Carter is a good surfer so he was just freaking out his son. you should have seen Conner’s face.
this is my favorite photo. good style, good balance, and good lighting. check out the sun in the background!!! i can’t believe Conner just started surfing about a month ago. he’s got potential to be on top!
and yes, i take these kind of photos to keep the memory alive. today was yet another very satisfying day for me. some people think i’m too happy but it’s those people that don’t understand the glory of my life. it’s moments like this that make me love my family, friends, and the world much much more! i couldn’t ask to be in a better place. i feel like screaming of joy! haha.
