I got an early start on summer this year, along with a special treat. While in Southern California recently, I got a little taste of the All Girl Skate Jam Skate and Surf Camp. Since I already know how to skate, I got to spend a morning getting a surf lesson from Patty Segovia, founder of the AGSJ.

Being a complete newbie to the whole water-sports scene, what could have been a better place to learn than the warm waters of sunny Southern California? The wetsuit I borrowed was more than warm enough, and I learned a lot about how the ocean works and some surfer's etiquette. I also got to see a large jellyfish in a wave, and learned to shuffle my feet as I enter the surf so as not to meet up with a stingray. The whole stingray thing was eye-opening news to me, as we don't have those up north where I live.

Anyway, I learned to paddle out, how to choose a wave, and how to stand up on the board. It was really different from skateboarding--I'm used to riding hard surfaces that don't move under your feet. This whole riding-on-water thing has a very different feel from skating and snowboarding. And I'm happy to report there's only good news about this experience. Can't wait to go back for another taste of the ocean soon!

The AGSJ camps are a great way to learn to skate or surf, hang out on the beach and in skateparks, experience life in southern California firsthand, eat vegetarian meals, do yoga on the beach, and just relax. Check out the AGSJ camp dates at www.allgirlskatejam.com.