The videographer, Stephen, took on the pickleball challenge today. He rolled out on his motorized bike, which is powered by a car-sized battery and has no pedals — more like a motorcycle than anything else. His setup includes a slick, quick-release system for getting off of his Sprinter Van.
We gathered our gear, and I made sure to bring my binoculars. I’m still on a quest to spot the elusive Xantus's Hummingbird. They’re around, but I haven’t carved out time to track one down. The route to the pickleball courts passes a few spots where others have seen them, and Pepe says they visit his feeder regularly. I’ve been keeping a running bird list for the folks at The Last Place — up to 35 species now. The motorhome can be a great place to watch birds. Even through the blinds. Gives new meaning to a bird blind.
The ride was its usual joy. Stephen filmed our 10-minute trip to the courts from camp. When we arrived, unlike past days, the courts were already in use — a group playing tennis. One person was waiting nearby. We greeted them, and soon the tennis players approached to ask if we were members. One woman, who we’d met before, reminded us it’s $10 to play. The president of the homeowners’ association was there too. The vibe felt a bit chilly at first, except for Kim — a Korean woman who wasn’t playing but was warm and welcoming.
Eventually, it became clear the cost was indeed $10 per person. It felt steep given the windy conditions, especially since this might be our last day here. The mood softened a bit as the conversation continued. I suspect the men were frustrated — the women were winning their match.
Stephen hoped to launch his drone, but the timing didn’t work out. Soon after, the match wrapped up — the women victorious — and we had the court.
If doubles was confusing, triples was a true circus. Kasey, Stephen, and I chased wind-blown balls and found our rhythm in fits and starts. I started off as the low scorer but made a comeback to take a win.
Then Stephen wanted footage of us playing, so Kasey and I played a round of singles. The wind was so strong it nearly toppled the net; we had to weigh it down.
Stephen had to leave to meet Leo for a diving session, so Kasey and I squeezed in a few more games before heading back for a phone call. I made a detour to Pepe’s in hopes of spotting the hummingbird, but he’d forgotten to refill the feeder. He promised to text if one showed up.
Later, we showered and soaked in the upper pool, where Kim joined us at the water’s edge. A couple from Seattle, Nikki and John, came up to soak too, and we even spotted a few whales offshore.
Lincoln is still moving slowly, so I took Tad to the beach for a run — and run he did! He nearly made it to town before turning back. I caught it on video, though I can’t upload it here.
The tide was high, and the little blowhole at the shoreline was active — I filmed that too, but the still photos will have to do for now.
Comet is loving vacation life — stretching out wherever she pleases and charming the neighbors.
Tomorrow, we think we’ll start the journey home. But with us, you never really know.
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