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Surf's Up! was founded back in 1995 by Pete and Jane Craske. It has grown to become one of the most respected, dynamic and progressive surf schools in the country. The following diary is written by me, Pete. It is an honest account of what we're up to and I hope it's of interest. As an honest account it may at times be controversial - but it is what I think and I hope adds to the flavour. Running your own business presents many challenges, but we find ourselves by good fortune, in an industry that is full of reward. We are surrounded by some amazing people and get to meet amazing people. I couldn't think of anything that I'd rather be doing and I look forward to every day. This is the evolving story of Surf's Up!

11th May

What a fantastic weekend for the school and for Boardriders. Megs won the Rip Curl Grom Search at Perrenporth with Gabi coming 4th - two big results. Megs got knocked out early last week and wanted to make up for it this weekend. That's the way to do it. And Gabi deserves it too - both of them came on the Bali trip and you can see how much their surfing has come on. Across the board we had superb performances - check out the Boardriders section - comp results for the latest. Noteables include a 3rd for Harry and a 4th for Sophie. And semi finals for Archie and Alfie.

And then back here Billy and Fin had their school run. Another amazing performance by Billy over the three mile race. He just gets fired up by medals and trophies. Billyman has this fire in his belly. I'm an advocate of competitive sport at school - life is competitive and I think it gives them a good grounding. And for someone like Billy, who sits in the average bracket of academics - it gives him a chance to shine.

Here's Bill getting his trophy from the Headmaster, Nick Lane.

10th May

Here's Harry Timson, the latest to come on board as a Surf's Up! Team Rider. Harry's been training with us for a while now and came to Bali. Such a talent who dominated the under 12s last year. 2008 sees him move up to the under 14s where the challenge will be tougher, but we have every confidence that he'll continue to produce some amazing results in this category and above. Kelly will support him both here and abroad. Definitely someone to watch. I'll be updating the team rider page in the Boardrider section over the weekend - be sure to check it out because his competition results are simply amazing. Welcome aboard Harry.

Just as an aside - a quick big up for the Kelly man. What never fails to impress me with the big man is his total commitment to his Elite squad. It's not a show, he doesn't pretend. He's recognised that he can really make a difference to these young surfers and grabbed the opportunity with both hands. His brief is very simple - do whatever you can to help them - coaching, mentoring, working with the parents. Think big and think long term. And it's working - we only have to look as far as Toby, who is a stand out surfer in any category, to see the progress being made. Harry's already well ahead of the game for his age. But as we know, it's not the UK scene where this talent will be judged, but much further from these shores. And that's the journey that we're now on. It's exciting - and made all the more enjoyable by having these two amazing individuals, leading the way for the many more amazing surfers coming through the ranks. It's an honour and privilege to be involved.

9th May

I sat on the clifftop with Kelly last night watching the Boardriders, and we mapped out the future of Polzeath. Here's the big plan - what we want to do is get a very wealthy Arab, one of the boys who's built 'The World', to come over with one of their big boats and build an artificial point break alongside Pentire. So as you look out to sea on the right hand side going out to the end you'd have a grinding Point Break. We could also have one from Stinky Bay around to Baby Bay, this would be the more for Intermediates. Down the Camel Estuary at Greenaway, we could put in an A-frame peak. And back on the beach, well that would be set aside for beginners and Improvers. Good so that's sorted - all I need to do is find this wealthy Arab. Good plan though - what do you think?

The main benefits are that we could make Polzeath one of the best surfing destinations in the world whilst at the same time creating space for the beginnners. Imagine the point break though - launch off the rocks and paddle into a perfect right hander that peels for 400 metres. Happy days. I'm on the Parish Council - I'll mention it at the next meeting and see what they think.

8th May

In my mind the return trip was not included, this was a race to Pentire. Okay it wasn't billed as a race but as I held a reasonable position, that's what I 'mgoing to call it. Let's study the facts - Elite training, that's a group of very fit young men and women, seven of them at tonights training session. The surf is small, so I say to Kelly, "i'll run them up to Pentire". We set off and James and Jack took the lead - in third is yours truly (with Libby in tow). And that's how it remained, the gap between myself and those behind grew and grew. It was like a mini Olympics with the crowd going wild (this is all in my head).

What the boys don't really understand is that my achilles and calves are a problem - a big problem. And that is precisely why now I can't run, no, walk! I need a long hot soak to ease my stiffened limbs. But before I do that I would like to stand up in front of the nation and say " I am faster than some 15 yr olds!"

Senior management meeting this morning - really good sesh. Covered lots of ground. The team continue to work hard and well.

7th May

I had my first surf since Bali tonight. That's shocking - and so was I! Really very poor - but that's okay it's inspired me to clear some time. The weather has been awesome the past couple of days - shorts and tees, head high surf - well it was tonight on the sets. Polzeath at it's best although I'd have to say that the vibe wasn't that cool in the water. A couple of our Boardriders were given a bit of grief which is so uncalled for. I don't get that at all. Surfing at times can be a very selfish sport.

I'm going to have to put in some serious hours over the next few weeks. We're waiting on a few bits of news before we can properly forge ahead and that's really frustrating, but there's a lot to be getting on with. It's hard to know where to start.

There was an interesting article on the CNN website last week about testosterone. Apparently, let me see if I can get this right, a big percentage of athletes can take testosterone and it never be detected, because their body has a natural way of disguising it. Something like that. This is found to be the case in a larger percentage of asian athletes. With the Olympics coming up, I thought that was QI.

Also QI is the fact that Starbucks have seen a big drop in demand for coffee! Now you just don't get this info on any old blog.

4th May

I like to think that I can succeed at most things I try. Last night though I failed miserably and yet it was well within my grasp. Having suffered a bit of jet lag, I've gone back to staying up late. So I thought I challenge myself to eat a whole BIG Toblerone in one sitting. I started well and confidently, but mid way through began to slow. With only five triangles left I was done and feeling sick. I'm going to have another try later in the week - see if I can nail it! I finished off the reminder for breakfast.

Good surf today and pretty busy on the beach. We don't normallly expect much in the first May bank holiday - but looks like it'll be a good one. I taught my first lesson of the year yesterday - a one on one with a chap I've taught before. A 3 times Oxford blue oarsman (on the winning side) he was a quick learner. We went from riding white water into the beach to riding across unbroken waves in one session. One of the biggest challenges of surfing is the physical aspect - get someone who is super fit and you can fast track them to good level really quickly.

The Boardriders are all down at Watergate for the English Nationals. We can expect some good performances. I'll let you know how they go. It seems that most of them work for Galleon Beach Cafe which keeps them occupied. Alan who owns the cafe showed me a computer programme today for helping to run the business. He put in all the computer programmes for the Holiday Inn so knows his stuff. He's offered to help me set up a system. I'm still getting the feeling that this year will be challenging for many businesses. If I was to stick my neck out I think the shops are in for a tough year. As for us, well we've been far more cautious and we'll have to wait and see. We've enjoyed 14 years of amazing growth, but we have to be realistic. Our plan so far has been to reduce our overheads - and that means less staff. This time last year we had nine full time instructors, mainly to look after the Boardriders. But this year we have three full time and four on part time which has made a huge difference. We've also had staff taking holidays when it's quiet. Sam has been to Portugal and Julia to Morocco. In the past that would have been out of the question during the season. It's healthy to get the staff to take time out. They come back refreshed and that feeds through the team.

We're in that phase of getting ready for Whitsun - that's always the date when everything has to be ready by. Lots to do.

-

1st May

To get through customs in Miami today took two and a half hours - exactly two hours, 29 mins and 31 seconds longer than it did at Heathrow. It meant that instead of enjoying a leisurely stroll around duty free - I had to run around frantically to make my connecting flight - which I did with about a minute to spare.

On my journey back to the uk (I've been away for a week) I sat next to a Jewish man. We both had had the good fortune of landing the Exit seats with leg room far in excess of that in first class - always a bonus. On several occasions during the flight he got up, draped a shawl across his shoulders and did some funny dance, shuffle, nodding, prayer thing. This provided me with much amusement. That was until the final time he did it - he took some black tape and wound it from the top of his arm down to his wrist. He then went around his head once with the same tape. “Oh my God! I’m sitting next to looney and we’re all going to die” - that’s what we’re suppose to think isn’t it in these times of paranoia. I wasn’t sure exactly the moment I was supposed to jump on top of him, I’d missed the pre flight safety film whilst reading Piers Morgan’s Diary - but I was ready. I eyed up his footwear - flip flops. A good sign.

He got up out of his seat looking like he was a work experience boy at BQ who’d been told to go and sort out the gaffer tape at the back of the store - and then proceeded once again to go through the same routine of dance, shuffle and mutter whilst reading his book. We were headed East and he faced the front of the plane, so I’m guessing by this stage that this was indeed a man committed to his faith (not always a good sign) and of no harm to anyone. I decided to give him the benefit and stood down my roll-on deodorant (it was all I could find to attack him with - "take that you fanatical ........hey, you smell pretty good".)

We chatted. He owned a business, exporting manufacturing equipment to South America. Despite the fact that he lived in Miami, not one mile from the beach, he said he hadn’t stepped on the sand for years. He was off to Amsterdam to meet up with a mate - I’ll call him the Gaffer! Times are hard in America - we chatted about the surf school and he predicted a good summer, but a slower period after that. Sounded about right to me. He reminded me of the summer of 1939, when apparently every one had a last hoorah before crisis.

My journey today has been a long one - a six hour drive in a 4x4 ( I could have flown but wanted to see the countryside), the first hour of which was over rough ground, then a three hour flight, followed by a nine hour flight, a train to Paddington from Heathrow and from there onward to Bodmin, pick up the minibus I’d left a week previous and drive home. Not surprisingly I’m pooped, but looking forward to seeing the family (I’m on the train bit just outside Exeter). It’s the first time I’ve travelled abroad alone in many years - the last being to deliver a letter for a friend to a business in Belgium. I spent all my delivery fee on chocolate. That was 23 years ago. All my other flights overseas have been with other people. It’s a totally different experience. Had the kids been with me in Miami, the two and half hour shuffle through customs would have been a complete nightmare. No water, no air conditioning, got to stay in line. I can only imagine. Got to be proud of good old Blighty - through in 27 seconds - that’s from arriving in the queue to getting through the other side. Straight to baggage, where my bag was first off - I was in Paddington Station only 25 minutes from the plane stopping. Mind you that was terminal three and not five. I’m sure they’ll nail that one soon too.

My trip has been empowering. So much time to think. So much. On the plane, on the train, in the car, in the hotels. I had some good meetings and met some great people. Couldn’t have gone better - what’s the phrase - exceeded expectations. That’s the one.

My disappearance from the beach for the week has caused much curiosity back on the beach. Julia guessed that I’d either been on a reality tv programme or been to see some investors. She was pretty surprised to find that I’d slipped out of the country under the radar some 5000 miles away without anyone having any idea. Only Janey knew exactly where I was headed and why. But it’s been a stroke once again of pure Crasky genius - with a bit of luck thrown in for good measure as always.

I’m sat opposite a mad lady - her tongue is sticking out of her mouth and she’s going on about her husband being a window cleaner. She used to live in St. Austell. It’s been a very long day and I’m getting the occasional waft of smelly socks. Until I get off this train, I have no idea if it’s me or her! Oh hang on, we’re talking about the weather - no she’s got a free holiday in Newquay, they’ve got to pay £20 each ....... lovely lady, but I’m barely clinging on to life. Her tongue’s got very excitable as the man sat next to her tells her he’s from Birmingham. I think she must have a heavy tongue - it lolls from whichever side of head is closest to the ground. It’s on her left now as she looks down the aisle. Oh she’s off. One card short of a royal flush but she’s happy. Good luck to her. Turns out the smelly socks must be mine.

LATER

It's great to be back - the greatest welcome reserved for me from the dog Libby. Her tail was very close to wagging off. Down to the beach with the boys to meet up with the Boardriders, and Wailin and Kelly. The boys play on the rocks while I chat to Kelly and Megs - turns out she did brilliantly last week in the comp coming 5th in the under 18s (she's 15!). It's good to be back - home sweet home. Apparently the rumour has been working overtime on where I've been - Big Brother, The Apprentice - Kelly pointed out that if I had been, then the fact that I was back so soon meant that I hadn't done very well. But come on guys, get real, the only telly show you might see me on would be the X Factor, right?!

Bath and bed, tonight. Busy day to day on catch up.

30th April

One of the most enjoyable aspects of our business is the long term relationships that we make - at the same time we also get some really nice comments from new clients. The reason why the following is so pleasing is that I'm away at the moment, 5,000 miles away to be exact.

Hi Julia ,

just wanted to send a note to you and all at Surfs up , me and the guys had the most fantastic weekend staying at the beach apartment , everything was so perfect Polzeath is awesome the instructers were superb big thx to ours (Mike)who's knowledge and passion got us all up surfing .

Do we want to do it again ??? oh yessss were all well hooked and would love to book again at the apartment but on talking with the young girl on sunday she advises your already fully booked.( you need to build another lodge with this demand !!lol)

Thanks Barry - and thanks to the Surf's Up! team.

29th April

Janey makes me laugh - a lot. Every month when the mastercard bill comes through I try and hide. She goes through it with a fine toothed comb and it's the time when she finds out what little luxuries I might have treated myself to! We have this little game ( well I do) if she opens it when I'm around, I try and distract her attention with something else, giving myself just enough time to get out of the door and out of there. She's a wiley fox though - and stores the information until another time. I know it's coming. Thursday was a classic - we were both in the office when the bill arrived. I clocked as did she. She opened it and took it all in - bit more than she had expected. Whoops! "So anyway Janey what do you think we should do about this?" I show her another piece of paper. She answers, but the pen has come out and little marks are being made alongside various amounts - the 'what was this for' ones. "Julia, how about a cup of tea?" Within a flash I'm gone.

Later that evening ..... after dinner " Pete?" Oh God, she's got the mastercard sheet. It's become a ritual. She tells me off, I pour on the charm and somehow I get away with it. "Think big picture Janey, big picture".

I've got a plan with the blog (actually this is interesting. The Anns Cottage boss did an article in the paper to celebrate 30 years in the business. He said that on a good day they get between 400 and 500 hts a day on their website. Did you know that on a good day - we get over 1000 hits a day on my blog!) which brings me back to my plan. There are some days when I feel like I've let everyone down when I have nothing interesting to say on the blog - the pressure to be funny is intense. here's my plan - what if I got one of the staff to write it instead / as well. Then we'd get a bit of flavour and colour. I'll still do my bit but the others can have their say. That way any reader will get a more rounded experience of the Surf's Up! day. Does it never end? - the genius!

24th April

It's 4am and I'll be damned if I can get to sleep. I've come into the office (with the cats) and am doing some work. It's a good time - all is quiet apart from the driving rain outside and I can think clearly. As a hayfever sufferer, Libby is proving to be a good source of pollen - my eyes are itchy and watery. I am also as has been pointed out on my blog on many occasions, an insomniac. "I Peter Craske am an insomniac" there you go I've said it. Actually that used to be true until recently when my new found role has seemed to 'calmed' me down and I've enjoyed a good period of rest. Tonight though it's not to be.

This is not unusual, it's not a first - to just simply not get to sleep at all and tonight could be one of those nights when I just go right through to the morning. My usual trick of going to sleep with the telly on has failed. Watching repeats of the Thin Blue Line normally does the trick - but not tonight. I've even tried watching the same episode of QI three times. On Dave, Dave +1 and some other channel. So what I can't do is sleep, but what I can do is tell you is what Switzerland invented (and no it wasn't cuckoo clocks , that was Germany) which is Quite Interesting.

So what is the cause of my unrest? I really don't know. There's lots going on at the beach - there always is. But I deal with business stuff without too much sweat. I always think that you have to put things in pespective. How bad is a bad day compared to others around the world? Well, it's a pretty good bad day. And to be honest, when the kids come home from school - life is sweet. The greatest thing the new regime at Surf's Up! has given me is time with the family - and that's priceless during the season. And both the boys have been straight down to the beach to surf the past couple of days. It would be easy for us to push them in the surfing direction, but they both love football, and that's what takes up 5 days of the week!!

Whilst I was lying in bed (I mean sofa) blanky gazing at the tv I did have a bit of a worry about the boys. I hope I'm around to guide and protect them when they're older. I hope they have happy lives. I guess these are normal parental worries. I know that the beach life is a good one for them and they're surrounded by good mates, they're having the time of their lives - but there will be challenges ahead.

I rang me mate Simon tonight. He was best man at our wedding 14 years ago. He worked for us for a few years before heading off to Falmouth to study Film making. He now spends his time behind the cameras for Sky and BBC at football games and motor racing events. He's a top man and has found his way in life. Really pleased for him. He lives up in Newcastle, his home town and travels the globe. He told me that another of our past instructors has qualified as a lawyer - well done Sam the Man.

I guess the other thing on my mind is an issue that needs some finality brought to it. I know how to do it, but I could only do it with Janey's backing. It would involve me disappearing for a week - and then coming back wihtout anyone knowing I'd gone. So that'll be tricky then. I'll speak to Janey in the morning, who knows she may come too. We resolved to go a while ago but left it in the end. I think the time is sooner rather than later.

Apart from that everything is good. There's a lot going on here and there, getting ready for the main part of the season. We've got another administrator starting on Friday, which will give us three in the office. She's a real character - very bubbly and funny - can't wait for her to start. I know the rest of the team will love her.

Time to crack on with some work - it's 5am now!! Life's a beach.

23rd April

Good day all round. Had a meeting in Newquay which I think will be very productive and then headed back for an evening on the beach. It was one of those classic Polzeath nights when the sun was out, the tide was high - those are the best. Lots of Boardriders mingling and mums and dads to chat to. Happy days. Sam's off for two weeks in Portugal - although we miss his company the boys are getting on with it and keeping busy. Isn't that the test of a good manager?

Forgot to mention that Billyman and the Wadebridge Under 9's won the Cornish league on Sunday. Competition this weekend for the Boardriders - Friday, Saturday and Sunday up in Croyde.

21st April

Great news - Megs won the Rip Curl Grom Search in Wales this weekend. She really deserves it - totally dedicated to surfing, she lives and breathes it. Sophie came 4th - again an awesome achievement. Really proud of both of them. Our team rider Toby has also returned and it's good to see him back on the beach training with Kelly. I have to be careful with how I talk about Toby, mustn't put too much expectation on him. All I'll say is this - he went to Australia this winter to train with Martin Dunn - Kelly's mentor. He stayed with Martin's family for one month surfing with some of the best surfers on the planet. Martin's feedback. "Toby is the best British surfer he's ever seen at the same age - and that includes Russell Winter". As feedback, it doesn't get any better.

Anyway this is the deal with Toby - Kelly went out to meet him in Indo and we shall continue to invest kelly's time with him. But we feel he could do with his own page on this website to list his achievements - to recognise what he's doing right now. And then throughout the year as he goes to the Pro Juniors, we'll be able to follow his progress. So keep an eye out for it - my website man is on the case. s

17th April

First person to tell me what film this is a reconstruction of can have a free hoody!

Listen, I know I bang on about it, but you can't go anywhere in this world on your own. You have to surround yourself with the best. Last night, the team got together to do a photo shoot ... and what we had right there was the best. So, so strong! Normally, you build a team around a few strong team players knowing full well that you'll have to work a bit harder with a few of the others. But this team - I can't see the weakness. And I think that's a reflection of the age of the crew. A bit more mature, worldy wise - can see the opportunity and live the dream. Between us in the photo we have nine kids and two on the way and that's good as a family business operating on a beach that caters for families. But I think what having other mums and dads on board does for us is gives us support from a different area. ie that understanding of the demands on me and Janey as the owners of the business, and as parents. And the same in return, understanding that they may have been up all night with a sick littleun, or worrying about a kids exam etc.

This morning we had a meeting with Sam, Julia and Kelly. The buzz is very good. I wanted to let them in on our long term strategy. We think now is a bad time to spend. So we consolidate, get very strong and focused, and be patient. There may not be so much disposable income around for leisure and luxury spends. We're not going to expose ourselves to over investment and high borrowings. If you could see our pre-bookings, you'd think what on earth am I going on about. They are stronger that at any time, particulary the beach house - let's just say, I'm confident in this strategy. Look at the housing market - 2 years ago who would have thought it would be dropping as fast as it is. I know a house that has just sold for 30% less than what it was on the market for last year. So it's happening. And I think only the strong will emerge unscathed a few years down the line from now.

Don't for one second think that this means that we stop being ambitious. That's not the style of Surf's Up! - but we go forward with caution; optimism and realism. A longer term plan.

Someone who deserves a special mention is Julia in the office. I've got so used to delegating I wake up some mornings and wonder how I'm going to fill my day!! (I wish) - anyway Julia seems to have loads on her plate and handles it all with good grace and calm. The same with Sam and Wailin - just two awesome beach managers. Two completely different styles, but with the same outcomes. Mike and Big Matt - the same, just brilliant. Very, very good. Big Al, Olly and a return for Arney - so strong. As for Kelly, he's back and he's his usual self - brimming with self confidence and attitude.

14th April

Well that was some weekend. Saturday, went to watch Billy play in a football tournament in Newquay. Then took Libby for a walk on Bodmin Moor. We found a secluded military training base which was fun to have a look around ( no one was there!) On Sunday, I did the same but in the reverse order. I took Fin and Libby up onto the Moor and then we went to Newquay in the afternoon. Billy's team lost in the final - it went to extra time, so it was exciting, but the best team won. There were teams from all over the country playing - but this one lad from Brentford was a stand out, absolutely silky with the ball at his feet. A joy to watch, and unfortunately he was the difference between the two sides. At one-all we could have sneaked it, but it wasn't to be. Hats off to the trainers Tom and Nick who put so much into their training.

So for me there is life off the beach! I didn't know that one existed during the season, but there's a whole new world out there for me to enjoy!

Kelly arrives back today - be good to catch up with the Mohekaned one.

11th April

The Masters is on - and that means for golfers all around the country, spending time in front of the box.. preferably undisturbed! The legend that is Tiger Woods, is clear favourite, and I'm supporting him all the way. I'd like to see him have a crack at the Grand Slam - although, I think he'll need some luck with the weather. The last time he was on schedule, he ended up being blosn off the course in the British Open. A friend of mine who went to watch, used to be a pro golfer and said that without question the event should have been temporarily suspended as the rain and wind was too extreme to play any meaningful golf. Tiger got it at it's worst and never recovered. Ernie Els who played at a different time in the day, avoided the bad stuff and went on to win the title. As with anything, you need a bit of luck on your side.

Today, the surf has picked up to 5-6ft, but the wind is strong. Makes a change from yesterday, 1ft and still! One of the big challenges for this year was to get the staffing levels right - learning our lessons from the end of last year when we had too many. So far we've nailed it - and the feedback from clients has been awesome. That's all that I'm concerned about. If you're getting the good feedback from clients and the staff are buzzing, then everyone's happy. Simple really.

10th April

Wasn't the Apprentice last night pure gold. "Where's the rest of my pizza? ....If it takes ten tomatoes to make soup for four people ..... " It's one of my 'not to miss' programmes. Apart from the business stuff you can learn, the comedy value is priceless.

9th April

Yo Dudes - what's news. Pretty small surf here today. Just about a foot rolling through - but we don't care, it's one of those days that makes you glad to be alive. Talking of alive - Finley is lucky to be alive following last nights incedent. We' ve been going for some really nice walks with Libby to Port Quin and Lundy over the past couple of weeks. Libby loves swimming and the boys like looking for caves and smugglers holes etc. Anyway last night we went to for the Lundy option. On our return I could sense that Fin was getting a bit tired. And this was verified when Billy decided to roll a stone towards him. It hit his foot. It didn't hurt but he decided that an Oscar performance was appropriate. Billy then made an amateur mistake and walked away turing his back on the little man. And as he did Fin bent over, picked up a rock and in anger hurled it in his direction. It struck Billy on the back of the head. "Oh dear" I could hear myself thinking,"I'm not sure Fin is going to be ready for this".

Sure enough Billy got the red mist and as I say Fin is lucky to have survived. To hit Billy as he did was a shot in a million, and the lump has now gone down!! Billy is Fin's God and he apologised later "Sorry Billy" he said twice. Billy refused to acknowledge his existence. It'll all be forgotten today. They're the best of mates most of the time.

7th April - later

Politics on Polzeath Beach!! After 14 years you get used to it - you have to have skin like a rhino when you're bang slap in the middle of the beach. Some of the stuff you get to hear about yourself, well I've learned to laugh about it. But what is it they say, there's only one thing worse than people talking about you, and that's people not talking about you. When you're at that stage in your life when you're trying to be successful no-one takes any notice - but once people perceive you to be doing well - then you get hit!! Now we're the big boys in the surf school world we get it from all angles. We call it 'Surf School Envy'! What makes me laugh though is that those that have this disease should take note. We started 14 years ago with a £2k loan (not grant) from the Princes Trust and have turned it into something quite special. Today's school start with huge investment. If I was a new surf school setting out, I'd look and learn, because every surf school in Cornwall and Devon has had an equal opportunity. The lessons we've learned over the years! Amazing. And we've become very tough - maybe even hard. There's a guy locally who could quite rightly be regarded as the big cheese. He owns Ann's Cottage - despite popular opinion we actually get on okay and I think should we bump into each other somewhere miles from the beach, then yes, I'd happily share a beer with him. At least I know with him that 'it's just business'. In our early days on the beach I remember thinking what an idiot he was, a greedy bully - but as time has gone on I've learned to understand the meaning of competition and can understand his actions. We've had some big disagreements, but always on a professional level - never personal. And I think that's the key. He gave me a top tip once when we were having a heated discussion "Pete, don't burn your bridges" and it was very good advice - you never know what's around the corner and who you might need to turn to.

Competition fires us up. I love it - gets me up in the morning. But not in an 'Apprentice' way. As brilliant I think I am, I wouldn't be strong in Alan Sugar's programme because I can't sell anything i don't believe in or am passionate about. That's why my insurance career failed and my surfing one has been more succesful! But that's why I'm very lucky - because I totally believe that surfing can have a positive impact on your life. It can change your life - myself and janey are living proof of that. So it's very easy to convey that passion.

Back on the beach then - oh some lads have arrived with lots of ideas on how they're going to change the world (Polzeath mainly) and they're going to do this and do that. Which is fine except that their plans don't necessarily concur with other peoples plans (leave me out of this for the moment). If you arrive to set up a business which other people are already doing, well you just have to accept that the culdron that you're going into isn't temporary - this is a long term decision and you'll have to deal with it everyday. Which after a while is very tiring. Once the initial excitement of running a business subsides, the reality sets in. There's three of these boys - success, failure? Which way will they pull - in the same way? It's a tricky combo. What's the odds on them staying the course? Not good. There are so many challenges ahead. That's another reason why Surf's up! works - myself and Janey always want what's best for the surf school, not what's necessarily best for us. Creation, not chasing money - building a legacy to be proud of. I think I'll work until I die because I enjoy it - the way it evolves, the ever changing nature. I'm going to stop the philosophical trail right here!!

I know what you're thinking - this is a bit of Pete Physcology (there you go, can't even spell it!) - Psychology. Read between the lines, you're thinking. Sometimes, certainly - there's a lot of people who read this blog. It can be influential. There have been times in the past when I've written something and the next day, the e-mails flood in - normally to praise my genius! Or people come up on the beach and start talking about what I've written. It's like having a little community. Welcome aboard. Enjoy the ride. But I love that.

Janey's come in - "What are you writing now?" - she's great my missus. She just laughs - very level, rational. I've done very well there. Two peas in the pod. In the past when we have had challenges, we just close the door to the outside world and have a laugh about it. Things can always be worse.

We were a man down today - and Sam turned up on the beach for his day off. "Thought the diary looked busy - just wanted to check all was well" That is a good manager right there. He stepped in for the man down and saved the day. What more could you ask for? You know teaching surfing is fantastic, it really is - but as with anything, it helps to have a team that are fun to be around and who are prepared to pull out all the stops for the others.

Big Al wrapped up nice and warm - what you can't quite see is that it's snowing!

7th April

We started the day with a bit of snow but then by mid morning all was well and we've had an amazing day. Sunny, bright - a good day to be on the beach.

It's one of our Boardriders birthdays today - Megan Burns. Megs is one of the local kids who embraces the Boardriders club - she came to Bali with us. Just totally stoked to be on the beach everyday, she lives in the water (or if there's no surf in our office!). Sponsored for surfboards, I think this year she's going to do well on the circuit. In Bali she really came into her own and shows little fear taking on the reefs without hesitation. She's a joy to have around, independent and helpful - we're going to have a lot of fun watching these kids as they grow and track their progress as they enter the big wide world. Megs is 15 today. Her dream is to teach surfing at the highest level - like Kelly - but instructing the top women surfers. I've told her she'll need to do some travelling first - which she was very keen on!!

6th April

"It was like pins being jammed into the side of my face" Wailin recounted the morning surf lesson with Janey. The snow had been quite heavy, unusual for the beach, and every time the snow fell the wind picked up to give blizzard like conditions. The thing is - on a day like today, you have to take your hats off to those who come for the lessons. And that's what spurs us on.

snow on the beach!! And there's a lesson in progress down at the water's edge. Hard core. Four season's in one day though - it cleared up later into a beautiful day.

As I looked out of the window of my office at home, I reflected on the fact that I was warm, but that as I couldn't see through the snow to the beach, that maybe the instructors were a bit chilly. I pride myself on the 'never ask your staff to do something you haven't done yourself' philosophy, but I can only remember one occasion when the snow was as heavy. It was 1996, May - and the reason I remember so clearly was that I was teaching a celeb - it was at the north end of the beach, the surf was about 3ft and choppy and we basically surfed in a white out. Despite them being a gritty celeb - I didn't get to see them again!

Today I didn't feel compelled to go to the beach and help. That's for the young guns, I reasoned - that was until Wailin informed me that actually it's quite busy tomorrow and I maybe needed to don the rubber suit. That's okay though - although I've done my time, you get to miss the cut and thrust of the water's edge - and when the weather's bad, it's your pupils and other staff that keep you going. Even on the worst day I used to counsel myself with thoughts of - actually I know this is quite horrible, but I'm outside, I'm loving it and it's just part and parcel of what we sign up for. It's not going to be great everyday, but when the good days come along (and we had plenty last week) you appreciate them all the more.

Last week Surf's Up! went from being a partnership to a LTD co. Oh er. What does it mean? Good question? I'd like to say I have a really good understanding of it all - but our accountants have advised us to go that way and anyway we'd like to give our key players some ownership.Apart from that my knowledge is challenged. Going from a lifestyle business to a 'proper company' is tricky to get our heads around, but we now have four full time staff and 20 seasonal and we have to be on top of it to make it work.

Did you know that if there was hole drilled through our planet and you skydived in it, it woudl take you 32 hours to reach the centre of the Earth? The boys on the Discovery Channel are arguing that we can froget global warming - the real threat comes from the 99% beneath our feet that we know very little about. In fact, all they do know is that the bit in the middle is gettting smaller and that eventually we'll stop rotating! Even with advances in medical science we're unlikely to see this theory come to fruition. Our generation has seen more changes than any other, but our kids and there kids will certainly have to adjust even more than we've been able to. All this planet stuff reminds me that the International Space Station is passing overhead tonight and we should get a good view. Reckon I saw it last week walking across the golf course - a big slow moving star. Billy's keen to go and have a look later.

I've had a quiet day. Done a bit on the computer, watched a bit of footie on the telly, bit of Grand Prix - mooched really. Oh I did have a big office sort out up at the house, installed a new printer - checked a lot of stuff out. So I suppose it's been a good day. Billy had his first golf lesson yesterday, so we've been up the range hitting a few balls. Which is great for me too - my recent golf has varied between wild and wilder. My ball has been venturing into places I don't even think St. Enodoc own!

Debbie, our new addition to the office team, had her first day on her own today. I had to laugh - I guess when you start you're a bit nervous, want to make a good impression. Anyway this morning, I gave Debbie the office mobile phone to check for messages and retrun calls. As I sat there quietly minding my own business deeply engrossed in some stuff on the Mac, Guns and Roses started blarring out of the Sony Ericsson. I could see Debbie pressing lots of buttons to make it stop. Somehow she'd pressed the walkman function. There's loads to learn when you first start, but I know she'll get it - she's always smiling and that's what we want.

Myself and Janey haven't had a summer holiday together in 16 years - we do okay in the winter mind. And since the kids have been born I guess that's the only downside of a seasonal business. That might change this year - Janey has booked a place in Charmouth and I'm keen to join her and the boys for the week. It might be possible if only for a few days. Man, how weird would that feel - you get used to being in a work mentality when all around our on holiday. Of course Charmouth, is within easy driving back range. The next stage would be to get on a plane!! Now that would feel very, very odd!! Surreal even. I'm very grateful that the team and the leadership of it, is strong enough for us even to consider thinking about the possibilities. But that's evolution - systems are in place, records and data kept - progress indeed.

Every night I walk down to the beach with Libby (our black lab) and the kids - we pack up the trailer and do a final check of the office. That's where I'm headed now. It's a good way to end the day - take in some fresh before sitting down to watch American Idol!

5th April

Here's a question! If you jumped out of a plane without a parachute into a hole that took you to the centre of the earth, how long would it take you to get to the bottom? 32 hours - that's crazy! Also did you know that we've only visited 1% of the planet! The bit underneath us is obviously very difficult to explore.

Oh yeah, the new website is up hope you like it. It's an evolving project - lots to add in the coming weeks but I was keen to get it live. Be good to have your feedback.

I had a meeting yesterday with Sam and Wailin - very pleased with their work so far. In fact couldn't be happier. Olly and Al are back - two solid performers, we can rely on them to deliver. The two that have surprised us the most are Mike and Matt - the feedback they're getting from clients ranks with the best - that's what you want to hearing. We had a busy week last week - still trying to get to grips with the weird Easter. Rebuilding the skate ramp today - our thrid skin in less than a year - proof of how much use it gets!

30th March

I know .. the clocks went forward. Did I remember? Yes. Did I think Janey had changed all the clocks before going to bed? Yes. Was I using the only clock in the house that she hadn't changed as my reference point. Yes? I headed down to the beach a tad tardy - only to find that Big Matt, our former Marine, had already set everything up. The Gazebo, the flags - all there. And we all know what that means? Matt gets a bacon sarnie and a Latte as a treat! "A coffee shop in Polzeath doing fancy coffees? There's no way that'll work - this is the beach" I uttered those immortal words some 5 years ago. I am now first into the Cone Zone every morning for my dose of Mocchachino. It's a ritual, I can't help it.

I'm loving my new role - the boys look after the beach, and I come down to do a bit of mixing, meeting up with our regular clients for a chat - and then either work in the office on the beach or come up to the house and crank out a few hours on the computer. I spend an awful lot of time working on the computer. But I love it. Today I would have gone surfing ...had I not tweaked my hamstring playing golf on Thursday. It must be an age thing. With Billy running around playing a football match this morning, I wonder if I'm like most dads reflecting on a glorious pass or goal scored many years ago. It'd be great to turn the clock back to those days.

Here's a photo from the storms the other night. This was a few hours before high tide. The Youtube video of the event 'Polzeath Spring Tide' has hit the the 18,000 mark. The white stuff on the slope is thick foam churned up by the stormy sea.

The morning after - we had three more tides that went across the road that week - none quite like the Big Monday.

This is the garden area of the beach house that overlooks the beach car park. The Boardriders hang here all the time. You have to agree that it looks pretty untidy - so watch this space. This will look super cool by the time we've finished with it.

26th March

Despite the cold snap over the Easter there were a few people down. And this business of having schools breaking up at different times - well I can't see a downside. You can come on holiday and find that it isn't as manic as it can be - you can get into restaurants, the queues for coffee and pasties aren't as long and the sea isn't as busy. And I think from our point of view it's really good to. Less staff and a nice flow over a longer period.

The team have been brilliant - so, so strong. When we had that cold snap spirits were as good as they've ever been. Sam and Wailin are leading from the front - Matt and Mike have been inspired appointments and Olly brings back his usual charm and calm.

This morning Matt took the lesson and Wailin spent the best part of 2 hours running through fault finding. Which is as it should be - that eagerness to learn. And the best thing of all is that the feedback from clients has been from the top draw.

As for me - with the boys managing the surf school I'm able to crack on - and I have to say that I've been able to cover so much ground in the past few days. That puts us in a very strong position. And Janey although still very focused on the business gets to spend the day with the boys on their holiday.

Feedback from our boys out in New Zealand is that they're having a blast. They're into their 8th week now and they've had surf pretty much everyday!! Last week they did bungy jumping and skydiving!! This week they move to Raglan for what will be an awesome final stop. It's been a tremendous success and we now look forward to the next one in September. Dawsey has done an amazing job so well done to him.

21st March

"Two hours to hide tide!" the words ring louded in my tired head. It's 3am and I'm on the beach - the surf is once again on the big size, it's spring tides, again. And the wind is strong from the north west. Sound familiar? My concern is for the landrover and trailer which sits proudly at the top of the beach in it's 'open for business' position. When we put her there last week, the landrover decided not to start so we towed her up onto the beach. Which means that moving her off again is not that easy. I've walked down to see how far the tide has come up - and my gut feeling is that I'm just about going to be okay. I think it'll be pretty close, but at this stage I can't see any of the drama of last week.

We're nearly up to 13,000 hits on the 'Polzeath Spring Tide' Youtube production - crazy. It's unlikely to break the current 90 million number of that man dancing!

So anyway, I have some time to kill while I wait. Which is okay. I think better when it's quiet and I've got plenty to be getting on with. We saw the bank manager yesterday about remortgaging for some developments to the beach lodge and office. That's all pretty straight forward. My own gut feeling with the downturn in the economy is that we probably won't see the real effects for a couple of years. I can't see that now is the time to be bullish - not yet anyway. Best go and check the tide!!

18th March

Today was a good day - a few meetings and lots achieved. Went to the new Indian for a take away in Wadebridge - next time I'll make sure I don't order so many extras! The bill was comparable to a fortnight at a 5 star hotel, full board on the beach front, including white water rafting and elephant riding - in Bali. My credit card is weeping.

Hit 10,000 views on Youtube this morning - in one week. That's incredible.

17th March

Today 'the beast' arrived!! All to be revealed shortly!

16th March

During the storms our sky dish twisted again!!! So we're without until tomorrow - which means lots of boxing, bowling and tennis on the nintendo wii. Today I knocked Billy out - not on the boxing game - but playing tennis as I was going for a shot. Caught him fair and square on the cheek. He went down for a count of 8 - whilst he recovered I served a game to love!

But what is driving me mad now is that as a big Tiger Woods fan - I can't watch him come down the home stretch. So I'm watching the golf 'live scoring' on the PGA site which is the equivalent to watching paint dry. Nevertheless it is very exciting. Two to play, and level with a chap called Bryant? Never heard of him. It was the same this morning at 3am, watching the grand prix on teletext! Rubbish really. Oh and the rugby and the football. Roll on Monday!

16th March

Well we're back on the beach. Wailin was there to give us the kick off. It's going to be a very weird Easter being over such a long period. It's a good thing - as it won't get really crowded. But just a bit tricky on staffing levels. I think we've got it right - we'll just have to see. The surf's been good this weekend - expecially yesterday - what did we have? 3ft and clean. Sweet.

Been making plans for the garden of the Beach House - should all be in place by Whitsun. A big investment to bring it all together but we think it'll be worth it once it's all finished.

Last night I went to Paul's (Black and White Surfboards) wedding reception in Newquay. I had one beer! Today - feel sick as a dog. Been stuffing Anadin Extra down my throat all day. Anyway had some really good, intense, thoughtful chats with a few people at the party. Trying to come up with solutions to challenges. Having surfers ear though does make it very tricky - when there's hubbub, I find it very difficult to hear what the person next to me is saying. There's only so many times you can say "Sorry?"

14th March

(please note that the following report is by a proud dad, and allowances should be made by the reader. Skip if you don't want to feel sick)

What we hadn't taken into consideration was the seriousness of the event. We turned up and the car park was full and cars were stretched way back along the road. When we finally did find a space and made it to the centre, well there must have been 600 people plus, the kids in team tracksuits and wearing spikes. This was the county championships but North Cornwall seemed the least prepared. The private schools were prominent as were members of Plymouth Athletics Club.

With dampness still hanging in the air the track was muddy and a quick decision had to be made - football boots or trainers. Mots of the course was on grass but there were a few ups and downs that looked a bit treacherous. Trainers it was. Billy stood on the starting line surrounded by 60 other boys, the best in the county, and in the year above. I couldn't help but feel looking at the size of some of them that he'd be muscled out of this race and that he'd disappear into the pack. Sure enough when the gun went for the start of the 1000m, he did get pushed and shoved from one runner to another and by the time they got to the end of the first straight he was firmly embedded towards the back of the bunch.

The next 400 metres was out of sight. As a parent it was awful! Then came the first runners , first was a good distance ahead, then second, third, fourth, fifth...... and then Billy. Awesome, he'd battled through the ranks and was now in good position. Up a small hill and then down a bigger drop, then across a straight. He lost a place - back down to 7th. I ran to meet him on the start of the last uphill bit. "Come on Billy, go for the one in red,"I encouraged. He put his head down and scampered up the hill, taking 6th, 5th and then overtaking red to get into 4th position. He sprinted to the tape, and crossed the line with only a couple of feet separating himself from 3rd and 2nd place. It was an astonishing performance from the little man.

Billy bent over double, he couldn't breathe - he'd given it absolutely everything - there was nothing left in the tank. His mates ran over to congratulate him but he was in no mood to celebrate - he just wanted to be sick! It took a good ten minutes before he could talk.

Billy post race! Not looking very well at all!

So that was that - quite simply the worst experience of my life and yet one of the best. When he was on the start line - I felt awful, helpless - and he's only eight. I now understand what it's like to be a parent as your kids grow and get to take part in these things. It's just terrible. in the previous race there had been no expectation - but with this one there was, which made it much worse!! I wanted to get out there and run it for him.

He did us proud. I hope the school give him some credit - he's year 3 Cornish Champ and 4th fastest in year 4. Go curly, go!!

(okay that's the end of the proud father bit - hope it wasn't too self indulgent)

Reaching nearly 6,000 viewers on the youtube - is that good I have no idea. Seems like a lot. Few phone calls to make today.

13th March

Has the whole world seen my film? Wherever I go I get stopped! Not that I mind - being a glory boy and all!

Talking of glory boy - my genius has struck again. I was just sitting in the office, mulling as you do, jotting down a few ideas, trawling through a few websites - when it happened. Some things are so obvious, staring you in the face. And on the basis that you have to speculate to accumulate, this is a good one.

"Janey?" I asked as she poured over work next to me in the office. "Yes, what now!" "I've just had another stroke of genius!" "Oh God". Anyway we went into the beach house and I talked her through my plan. I always have to run through these ideas and leave them with her - sow the seed, especially when it involves remortgaging! But she's a smart cookie my Janey - she'll think about it, reason and then we'll chew it over. There's very hours that go and by when me and Janey don't talk about the business - you live with it.

Billy has his big race this afternoon - we're more nervous than he is. He'll just run his little curlies off!

12th March

Three consecutive days of tides right up to and over the road! Very unusual.

It's time to reflect on the winter as the new season approaches. It has been amazing. With Julia in the office looking after the business end of things both myself and Janey have had the luxury of actually enjoying some time together. The routine has been drop the kids off, got to the gym, into the office for a few hours, lunch at Relish in Wadebridge, pick up the kids and take them to either footie, swimming or skateboarding. It's been a magical winter too for some happys days with Billy and Fin. Spending time with them during the season is much more difficult with demands on time at a premium - but that's the compromise for a relaxed winter. Make hay while the sun shines - that's the way it is down here.

Trips to France, California and Indo - can't complain! But more importantly this winter we've had time and space to think about the future. The future of Surf's Up!, that of Billy and Fin and our own - what do we want to be doing in ten years time.

The bottom line is that we enjoy what we do so much. In any line of work they'll be those difficult days, but they're part and parcel of the challenge - and part of what makes it so enjoyable. And we know we're very lucky to have found our niche - this is where we're supposed to be and we feel at home and comfortable with it.

The future of Surf's Up! - well now that Sam and Wailin are all set to run the beach, we can look in new directions and I'm certain that in 5 years time, the surf school will be a small part of what we do. It is however essential that the surf school is a shining beacon for what we stand for - and that will never change. The surf school represents the roots - the next part, the journey.

10th March

Want to see what it was like at high tide on Polzeath beach tonight? Then check out this short youtube video we put together.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=SOAKZLwHhXU

10th March

Okay well that was a big tide then. Check this out - the tide is still surging up to the steps at the top of the beach - (as you look towards the sea they're the ones on the right hand side near Surfside) and high tide was two and a half hours ago!!! The water has gone right across the road and down the entrance to the Valley Caravan Park! That's 15ft swell with a southerly wind. The latest forecast for tonight's high tide - 31ft, wind going north westerly (right up the beach) - so everything points to a record breaking one at 7pmish!

The only loss we've sustained is that our raliway sleeper steps have gone. Well I say gone, they got washed up the beach and my sources tell me they're now in the back of Sean Egan's van and Rock Marines services van. Salvage rights? That's £400 worth of sleepers!

9th March

Time to batten down the hatches. We're getting used to over hype of 'average' storms down here - but I think this one has caught our attention. I've just been to the beach and the tide is nearly up to where out trailer would be parked - and the surf really isn't very big. So tomorrow could be quite exciting! Might get up early if it howls in the night to watch the early high tide.

Just checked the wave forecast - tomorrow evening is the one! 33ft surf, windy switching to North West - get down if you can - if that materialises then the tide will come well over the road - that's well, well over the road.

7th March

Billyman update - todays spelling test missed out the 'r' in forgetful - that's irony right there! Me and Janey still chatting about the race yesterday. My Dad was there to watch the him on the finish line (Billys Grandpa) - very proud as well. Awarded trophy at assembly - not Grandpa. Happy to bore anyone who asks about it for long time to come. Let's see today I told - Wailin, Stuart, Julia, Matt ...........................................................................rge - it's a long list.

6th March

There's some days when being a dad are just the best. Today was brilliant. Billy today ran in the North Cornwall Primary school race. Over a distance of one and a half miles cross country, the fastest runner from each class across North Cornwall races against each other. So this is year 3 to year 6 (aged 7- 11). Billy is 8 years old and in class 3. Last week they held the class run offs and Billy secured his place, but he's extremely competitive. If there's a medal up for grabs then he's on it. But this race distance was unchartered territory for him. I knew that he'd be thinking about ages in advance, but had no idea how he'd compete over the full race length.

Billyman down the home straight. Blurred because my eyes were a bit teary at the time.

The race started and quickly the 100 runners disappeared across the farmers field. The next few minutes was very tense. I hoped that he'd at least do well in his age group. I needn't have worried. As the first runner came into view, the curly hair was a clear giveaway. Billy was in the lead. I was so shocked, surprised, tearful even that he'd done himself proud in front of all his peers and friends, that I could only manage to take one photo as he ran passed and onto the tape. I know I'm his dad, but that was some run.

Billyman with his trophy and medal.

Tomorrow they're going to present him with his trophy at assembly, and then next Thursday he represents N. Cornwall in the Cornish champs (in the year 4 category because they don't have a year 3!).

If I die today - well I couldn't be happier. Sorry to go on!

Billyman with rest of the team from St. Minver School

27th Feb

Still boring Janey with Bali - well anyone and everyone actually. Which is just as well Surf's Up! Bali is taking shape.

I've put a few shots of our trip - but you'll notice that they're none of us surfing. This is for two reasons, the best ones will go on the Bali full report. And secondly because George is trawling through the photos opposite me, to copy all the ones of him!! Never mind, the new website is going live next week and hoepfully by then George will have finished!!

Seb and Dale - the kids always ask for these two characters - are back on board for the summer. So that's Sam, Wail, Kelly, Al, Oli, Mike, Matt, Seb, Dale and me - well that's just the best team ever.

Here's the new logo for our Bali adventure - really pleased with it - well done Jonathan.

22nd Feb

Two more to join the dream team - we have Oli, the inventor of the Olipop as seen on Dragons Den. Oli worked with us for a couple of years before embarking on his surf training towel. The towel continues to go from strength to strength, but we've managed to work out a way in which he can both teach for us and continue developing his line. Easy going, much liked by clients, can't wait to have him back. He has a very creative mind, so it will be good to tap into those skills.

And then we have Mike. Mike is a Boardrider parent and owns a running shoe outlet in Wadebridge. Looking for a change of direction, he is the ideal man to come onboard, particularly as he has kids of his own. Also easy going, funny and always up for it - a great newcomer onto the team.

Catching the boat across the lagoon Nusa Dua - you get to paddle back.

Had a very long meeting with the accountants today - some restructuring going on. Looks like we'll be going limited on the 15th March - few people to talk to, but global domination is surely not too far away!!

Still got the Bali blues. I get up and really want to go surfing, as if my body craves that particular energy boost, but then I realise I'm back in the UK and it's going to be cold. Nevermind, the gym has become once again a focal point. I tried some squats today for the first time in about 15 years. Awesome exercise, but my butt is going to be sore tomorrow!! It's an exercise that uses every muscle and improves overall strength. Can't wait to up the anti!

The Monkey Dance (Kecak) at Uluwatu

Julia's off to Morocco for a couple of weeks - which leaves me manning the fort. Actually that's good news for the Boardriders - I'm going to camp in the office and crack on with Portugal, France and Indo vids.

19th Feb

I can't express quite how I feel about this coming year. If ever there was a time that we surrounded ourselves with the best, then this is it! Here's a run down. Okay so we've got the office covered with Julia. Julia has become the backbone, deals with enquiries, the cash flows, the staff contracts and is my general p.a. as well. And believe me being my PA must be pretty rubbish. half the time I don't listen and the other half my mind is racing on something else. I think it could be quite fun but frustrating at the same time. Anyway, Julia copes with it all in her stride and we know that Julia is someone that as we grow will fill her skin. She has way more skills than we currently ask of her - but this is a good learning time, a time to really get to grips with our business and to understand me and Janey, before this all gets a bit more serious.

Megs on the boat to the reef

And then we have Kelly. Kelly has made a huge impact on us and our business. Solid as a rock his technical input has transformed the way we think about surfing. To give you an idea of what sort of man he is - in Bali we turned up at Serangan beach, it was going off - nearly double overhead. There was what, maybe 60 very good surfers in the line up, getting barrel after barrel. So Kelly paddles out - now he's never surfed here before, it's a brutal wave and he's paddled into the line up with guys that have sat on this peak for months - they know it inside out. If he got one wave it would be a miracle. Not only did he get a wave, but he completely dominated the line up - the first wave he went for he caught. And that was it - he put down his marker. That's what he's like as a friend. Kelly heads up Elite training and the boardriders club.

Next we have Big Sam - inspirational, paddles out on the biggest and coldest days with just his speedos on - hard core - likes black and skulls. Totally dependable and is back for what his 5th year to take on the running of the surf school. There are very few people that we would entrust to run the surf school - we're very strict about what we want, the standards that we expect to be met - but Sam has shown himself to be up for the task. Took on the girls squad last year - I think he'll be keen to see the development of that squad this year.

Looking over the reef at Serangan - the left you can see breaking nicely into the channel. The main peak is over to the right.

And then we have the return of Wailin. Wailin was with us for a few years before going on a sabbatical. We welcome his return with open arms. Stoked on life, surfing, his family, coaching - every good team needs a Wail. A massive prescence around the surf school he's one of the Surf's Up! legends. Guitarist extraordinaire, could we be looking at the formation of a new band? In Bali he was so good with the groms and had their total respect - perfect for taking control of the grom under 12s.

And then we have Al - Al has been with us for 5 years as well. A rock - calm, collected, respected by staff and students - always gives 100%. Has just been back to Uni to finish off his Environmental studies - has a real interest in that side of things.

The team prepare to ride the rapids trhough the jungle

I totally believe that what we have here is the start of something very special - a team so strong that we can look forward to challenges far and wide. It has long been my belief that Polzeath is an awesome base - but that the world is now a much smaller place. Now all i have to do is make sure that we can use this strength and move onwards. The surf school will be better than it's ever been - I know the team is excited to be working together.

Now we have to factor in the fact that the above will be shareholders - and that we'll be taking on investment. Dudes, jump on board this is going to be on hell of a ride!!

Unquestionably the biggest trial on tour. Loading up the boards in the midday sun for the afternoon session. Feel the burn!

18th February

The question has been asked, "how come were not teaching this feb half term?" And the answer is very simple. Firstly, it's not a time of year that we would normally be out on the beach - it's only the amazing spot of weather that makes it a possibility. But secondly and more importantly, I'm just having too much fun!! This is the golden age of Surf's Up! with so much going on - and I'm happy to wait until Sam, Wailin and Kelly are back before we hit the beach running. It's quite simply the strongest team anyone in the UK can put out and we have to be very excited about that.

On top of that my time is now focused on other plans. Polzeath is a great foundation, but now that we're going Ltd and bringing in investment, we have the opportunity to go further afield. Surf's Up! NZ is a nice start - Surf's Up! Bali will strengthen our brand as the second overseas project. There are two other places that we're keen to go too - one of which will bring a knowing smile to a few - but we're a company not afraid to take on challenges. Can't wait for that one! Oh how I make myself laugh. Time to ruffle some feathers and balance the books.

Half way and it's time for break in the jungle valley. Watch our for spiders, monkeys and Iguanas!

Now what about Boardriders and the next trip? Well Bali will be available to those who want to go - but I can't help but think that a boat trip should be considered in the Mentawais.

Polzeath today? Just awesome - bright sun, bit of surf, spectacular - loving it.

Indo report still to come but here's a quick summary.

day 1 - overhead, glassy

day 2 - day 12 - see above!!

15th Feb

We're back - man it's cold!!

Quick summary of our trip to Bali - big report to follow. Polly took 4000 photos so will need a bit of sorting.

Okay, surf overhead glass everyday, yes that's everyday. Reefs firing - surfed Nusa Dua, Serangan and Legian beach. 100 degrees at midday. Great hotel. Great food. Great company. Went white water rafting and to the local water park.

It was the ultimate trip!! Jet lag kicking in - well about now actually!

2nd Feb

We're in Doha waiting for our connecting flight - all very smooth so far. Most of the squad have got a bit of shut eye. I think I've been asked 4,000 times "what time will it be when we get there?" followed by "can we go for a surf when we get there?"

2nd Feb

No bragging rights as yet. Sat at Gatwick waiting for the call. Everyone in good spirits and frothing. Even got through customs with 30 boards without a hitch!!! Sweet as you like. Gate 15 - we're off. See you on the other side.

1st Feb

Got to be sad to leave Jane and the boys at home - but the last few weeks since we got back from holidays have been really good family time. I'm hoping that I can find a really cool spot for us all to visit next year.

So the day has arrived - Indo. I'm sat here in the office waiting for the team to arrive. 22 of us in total are making the trip. The surf and weather forecast are excellent - Wailin who's already there has been sending back the reports. Tonight we pack the trailer and head for Gatwick in the minibus in time for the early morning flight tomorrow.

It's taken a good deal to get to this point - but we can be happy that so far it's been a textbook operation. Even the Mums who worry the most have tolerated me and come around to my philosophy of 'there's still plenty of time!'. They know that I move at my pace - but hey it works, we get there.

22nd Jan

I've been reading a lot about Warren Buffett and Bill Gates recently - and they've released some audio books that are fun to listen to on the ipod. So today, I took myself off and walked the Camel trail from Wadebridge - treated myself to grilled skate and chips from Rick Stein's take away in Padstow and then walked back - whilst listening to their words of wisdom. It's not a bad life. Sorry to anyone that's been trying to get hold of me by phone today - sometimes you've just got to turn the thing off!!

Spoke to Dawsey this morning - just like he was still here. He's excited about the iminent NZ trip. We've got five going - the perfect number for our first trip. All previous clients of the surf school - and there's plent of interest for 2009 already. A lot of my time will be devoted to this project.

21st Jan

BUNNY GETS IT

"Who on earth would want that? What would you do with it? That's ridiculous?" commented Sylv (jane's mum) as Jane bought a few raffle tickets. The prize in question was a 5ft toy bunny - as wide as it was tall, with massive floppy ears and tail the size of a football. She was quite indignent.

A week later and Sylv was carry the bunny through Wadebridge, Jane having bought the winning ticket. This was two years ago and to be honest the boys do love jumping up and down on it from time to time.

Anyway, last night I came face to face with it. I've started training again, in our downstairs flat with the rower and up at Roserrow. Last night I set about the rower and did a couple of 2k sprints when the boys came down to, well to annoy me really. When I train I like to get focused believing that every session counts. If you going to have to go through the pain, well nows a better time than any. They started throwing the big fit ball around - which was getting in my way, playing the piano and pestering me for a go on the rower. Now as anyone knows, when you're half way through a quick row, distractions are not welcome.

A bit cross that my training time was being compromised I took the ball and went to put it away in the other room. It was with some speed that my forehead, not ducked enough, caught the lintel above the doorway. I hit it hard and my legs gave way. I ended up face down on bunny, my face planted right up her bottom. Of course the boys found this hilarious and ran upstairs to tell mummy the good news. In my semi conscious state I lay there for a few moments, not knowing whether to laugh or cry. I now have a line across my forehead. There was skin left on the paintwork.

Another day of wind and rain. Don't you love it. I think Cornwall is at it's best like this.

We went to Fowey yesterday - felt like a holiday. Caught the ferry across to Polruan. Took Libby for a walk along the coastpath. Great day.

I feel much better when I'm training. Much more on top of things. I get that long period - May to September when it's not possible to find the time, and that drives me mad. I think I go mad. If my body feels good, I feel good. So it's great to be back into it again. Lots of ab work, and lots of work strengthening up my legs. I have the thinnest legs in Europe - it's official.

15th January

I'd like to thank Wellington for going with his gut instinct on a new type of boot. It's made my life so much better! And I'd also like to thank the sky people for pointing our dish in the right direction - only took 5 weeks!

What's been going on in the world of Surf's Up! ? Loads. Firstly we're changing from a partnership to a limited company allowing us to allocate shares to key staff and invite investors to buy into the dream. I've been in meetings most of the day regarding that aspect and it looks like everything will be in place by the end of Feb. That's been a dream of ours for some time. So it's good to bring that altogether.

Equally big news? We've appointed Big Sam and Wailin to run the surf school and lodge inconjunction with Julia in the office on a long term basis! Which is great news. The dream team. We have total confidence in their ability not only to continue the success of the surf school but to build on it, allowing myself and Janey to develop other Surf's Up! projects. With Kelly inputting on the technical side - I couldn't imagine a stronger team. And also, what's really important to me and Janey, it'll be fun. Over the next month or so they'll be putting their team together for the season.

So what will we be doing? I can't really say - just yet. But as always there's plenty going on. What I can say is that we're looking forward to this season like no other.

California 2008

"Okay, we'd better go" I said. You could feel the change in the air - the temperature dropped and rain was imminent - the storm was closer than forecast. We got in the Rv and headed in the direction of Los Angeles. Tumble weed rushing across route 5 and sand storms made the going difficult and when we reached that the mountains all the signs were bad. The cloud above them was thick and low - news on the radio highlighted our plight.

Through the mountains we went, the wind pushing our vehicle hard to the left, and then the right as it swirled through the road cuttings. "Let's call the rv station and get this thing back this afternoon". It was with some relief that we handed the keys back over. Not for the first time we were ripped off - they claiming damage to the vehicle. They were wrong - I'd asked the lady - memorable if not for her super size then for her beard - to make a note of it ."You've got that down haven't you?" I asked her as I pointed to the scuff. She remembered me saying it and told her boss. 'Sorry mate, but that was damage from a previous time. It'd been fixed by the time you took it." Fortunately for us the young assistant had made the mistake of getting Janey to sign the vehicle back over. This new scuff had been found while Janey sat in the office waiting for me to return with the hire car. "Dude I know that mark was there. We've signed. I'm not paying. I believe I can walk out of here now." He had no reply, but as a compromise and so as not to finish on a bad note, I offered to pay half which worked out to about £80.

Our adventure had not been quite the holiday we might have imagined - it was a lot of work, but it was a good experience. The storm passed over where we'd driven through only hours before leaving damage and flooding to large areas of California. The next 4 days would be spent in the luxury of the Hilton hotel overlooking Huntington Pier. You know when you get a smile so big all over your face that you can't actually control it - there's no way that you could get rid of it - that's how we both felt and looked as we bounced up and down on the soft sheets on the soft bed as soon as the porter had left with his tip! That's annoying - tip for this tip for that.

If I was interviewed about our holiday, I think it would match that of an evictee of I'm a Celebrity. Watching the highs and lows played back on video, but we wouldn't have missed the experience for the world, etc etc you know how it goes. And then once evited we too got stay in a posh hotel, as if it was some kind of reward for what we'd been through!! Would we do it again - no. It's a once in a lifetime trip!!! Would I recommend it - absolutely, as long as your idea of a holiday isn't sitting by a pool in the sun all day reading books. And don't forget someone has always got the dump to empty in the morning.

Our last few days have been spent in the pool or at the vans skate park. Check out the kids ripping. Unbelievable. Billy holds his own over here, but these kids were on another planet. Eight year olds dropping the vert and clearing 6ft of air before dropping back in. Great to watch. We booked Billy in for a lesson and discovered that the bowl is where his heart lay.

4th Jan

Batten down the hatches - latest forecast - 90 mile an hour winds / unprecedented rainfall. Now this is a bad forecast when you're in the mountains in a camper van. We're in Bakersfield, a stop off on the long haul back from San Francisco to Los Angeles and the news is not good. We can see the storm brewing to the west and that's where we're headed. Tonight is supposed to be the bad one.

Rain over here is needed - there's a serious drought and has been for many years. But the big problem they have, like in 2007 is when it rains hard they get mudslides. And this is their fear once again.

San Francisco has been fun - Pier 39, Fishermans wharf, the trams and a boat trip under the Golden gate have meant a busy day. I was ripped off at a camera shop! Don't you hate that - the man was really nice and helped me with a broken lens filter. He made some recommendations and I went along with them. I don;t know why, but when got back to the RV and went onto the internet to check out the prices. I was done!! I think I've been sold some fakes - and paid £200 for the pleasure. We returned on the morning to return the items, but he was shut! The previous day's takings had obviously been good. You live and learn.

1st January, 2008

Happy New Year from Santa Cruz. Hope you all had a good one? Pretty quiet affair over here - Janey and the kids went to bed after a game of charades and I stayed up to play with Google Earth - the new Sky version is sensational. You can use it to map out the stars wherever you are. Which is awesome.

Been walking on the Big Dipper today. Is Santa Cruz a bit like Blackpool? Kind of disappointing as a town. But Steamer lane has been firing. The Derby Skate park a soulful experience. It's where it all started - a snake track leading to a bowl. I was all over it until quite out of the blue I hit a stone in the middle of the bowl and fell badly. A pulled hamstring, stained wrist and bloodied knee resulted and I found myself walking around the park trying to hide my self pity. Another pulled hamstring - gutted!

30th December

'Dumping" - the act of clearing the waste tanks is an unpleasant task and one that still produces a lot of swearing. The boys think it's funny, but then they haven't been covered in it yet. Today the flow reached a consistent level of my elbows.

"Oh my God! She's fallen in!" I haven't laughed so much in a long time. A family were 'special guests' at the Dolphin show in Seaworld. The mum has a few tasks to perform in front of the enthralled audience, like holding up a rope so that Dolly can jump over it. Anyway on her way down some steps she trips over, much to everyone's amusement, and cracks her shin on the step. She's okay and the show continues. A short while later, whilst most of our eyes are drawn to another dolphin wagging it's tail, Jane's eye had been drawn to the mum sitting on the bridge taking photos of her daughter feeding one of the dolphins. The lady falls off the bridge and into the main dolphin pool. Mayhem ensues and the crowd gasp and shreik.

Of course it transpires that the mum was infact one of the trainers. Seeing her ride around on Dolly's nose was the give away.

San Diego was a fantastic place to stop - the surf was fantastic and I had one session in the morning with very few out that was memorable. 3ft, maybe 4ft on the sets of pure glass. I enjoyed three good sessions there.

We have now driven the best part of 700 miles in the past few days, camping near lakes and in wilderness parks. Today we stopped off at Hearst Castle, a folly really of an eccentric milionaire who's father made a stack of cash when mining for silver. When his father died, here was a man who had money and time and he dedicated it to building a huge house comprising the best of renaissance and european art and influences. The setting is unquestionably stunning. Up on the mountainside overlooking the ocean - and the process of creating such a huge 'monument' inspiring. That said - America has little culture, not as we know it anyway, and I just wasn't sold. I'm not sure you can buy bits of this culture and bits of that and stick them all together and end up with something that is credible.

I wonder if that's my take on the American people. They seem genuinely so nice, but when they get home you imagine the veneers peel off and reveal the true identity. Don't get me wrong, I actually think they've got a lot of it right. Customer service? It would be shocking not to get a smile and a "how are you today" - unlike back in the UK where in some places it would be shock if someone said it.

Our motorhome experience has had it's ups and downs. But that's the deal - you go through some pain and when you come out the other side you end up in a better place. Travelling big miles with small kids is a challenge anyway and to be fair Billy and Fin have been very good. I have no doubt that when we look back this will have been one hell of an experience for us all. Only last night as we camped on a state park, having cooked our burgers on the fire, myself and Billy cuddled up on the table outside with a blanket and watched the shooting stars. It was a priceless moment and I carried him to bed once he'd fallen asleep.

Our journey today has taken us up Route 1 - a drive of stunning beauty. To the left the ocean. To the right the mountains. Ten miles would have been ample - we had 70 miles to navigate. Driving for 70 miles through winding roads maxing out at 30mph would on most days be cool. Today it felt a long way in the motorhome. Not even stopping to look at the elephant seals or feeding the chipmuks in the laybys could disguise the longevity of our journey.

But now we're here and have hooked up on an RV camp 5 miles out of town. We have everything we need and the boys have already made a few friends.

I'm really excited to be here at Santa Cruz - we'll hire a car (like we did at San Diego) which gives us the best flexibility. Santa Cruz is the home of surifng and skateboarding so it feels like an important place to stop.

22nd December - later

Done Disney - was it the busiest day of the year - absolute madness, seriously it was carnage. But surprising we had a great time. Got back late and tired. Good day - and Fin squeezed in at 42 inches to make all the rides - Space Mountain being the favourite.

22nd December

Another rite of passage in the motorhome owners life. This morning at 5am Billy wakes me up to say there’s water all over the kitchen/ lounge floor. He’s right it’s very wet - a search reveals that a big bottle of water had fallen over and early analysis leads to this being the cause. We shall watch with interest. The boys slept better last night - trying to keep them up is the challenge being 8 hours behind.

Today is Disney day - the boys are frothing.

Just been for a walk on the beach - surf 3ft of pure perfection - groin quickly puts paid to any thoughts of paddling out! Disney it is.

21st December

The manual said attach the hose to the nozzle on the camper, and put the other end in the dump hole. Once this has been done and both ends are securely fastened, then pull the large black level first followed by the smaller one. Myself and Billy were confident that the last challenge to complete in our motor home competency test would be a doddle.

Before fitting the hose to the motorhome, the first job was take off the lid covering the camper sewage pipes. Easy enough, screw anti-clockwise.............. oh what, the discoloured water spurted out like a geyser. Quick get it back on. The effluent shot out the sides as I grappled to get the lid back on and stem the flow. Billy at this stage was in hysterics - he’s got one of those infectious laughs when we really laughs. I was gagging, trying not to throw up. The small level hadn’t been shut in the first place, and the only thing stopping the muck come out had been the lid. It was another badge of honour in becoming fully conversant with this intrepid lifestyle.

This evening we walked along the pier and watched the surfers from above. It’s such a great angle to watch from.

Earlier

“The last place I’d want to drive the motor home would be in this traffic” I thought to myself as I’d eyed the busy road from the Holiday Inn on our arrival night. And sure enough only two days later, there we were, purely by error exactly where I didn’t want to be - right in the thick of it!! Our home on wheels was stressing both myself and Janey out. The wing mirrors stick out like handles on premier league trophies and judging width was proving a big problem.

We headed through the city centre of Los Angeles edging our way to our second beach destination - Huntington. Malibu had been a real treat and driving through had opened our eyes to how the other 0.00001% live. It’s a pretty place with some amazing surf side homes. On route we planned to stop at Santa Monica and Venice Beach, but without local knowledge the reality was much harder when it came to it. Parking would prove to be tricky and the wind was pretty strong so we kept going.

We’ve parked up for three nights right in front of the Huntington Pier - one of the most famous surfing destinations in the world. An amazing spot. The sun is out and there’s 2ft of perfect surf.

Board hire over here is expensive - and yet boards are cheap to buy. If we were flying with anyone but BA, we’d have snapped up a few boards by now (£250 for a longboard), but their new policy of banning surfboards has taken away what would have been the best option. Not that we’re complaining, our brother in law contributed a load of air miles. So at £120 to hire a board for 18 days, we’re not sure what to do? What is cool over here is the tolerance of skateboarding - it’s not even tolerance it’s encouraged. A sign with a skateboarder on it caught my eye as we rolled down the promenade. “Skateboards prohibited” is what I expected to read - instead, “Skateboarders are asked to slow down to when the lights are flashing.” Cool.

Of course the most sensible thing to do when you’ve been driving for a few hours, is grab your skateboard and tear around the car park with the kids. I’m getting old - I can feel it especially in the morning when the muscles aren't warmed up. Anyway a teaked groin has meant a rest up for a couple of days.

Disney is on the cards tomorrow - only 20 mins away

21st December

The boys were up again at 2am - still not quite in tune with the clock over here. When we arrived on site yesterday it was all a bit bleak. Raining. But this morning - well the mood has changed. The sunrise was spectacular an the view's not bad either. No surf, but that's no big deal. Just chilling. Off this morning to either Santa Monica or Huntington.

Some good news on Indo - looks like Big Mick is going to meet us over there and show us around. He's 90% certain to make the trip. Will be great to see him and great for the Boardriders to show how far they've come since he last saw them. He knows the area really well.

20th December

Sat here in the Rv overlooking Malibu beach with a glass of wine in one hand and a fork full of lemon prawn in the other - well you know it's tough but someone's got to do it. The picture in your mind might be slightly different to ours. It's raining, there's no surf and it's been one hell of a long day. It started at about 2am when Fin decided that in his world it was time to get up. Billy followed shortly afterwards. 11am was our pick up from the RV company. They never showed and after an hour waiting we made our own way into the mountains by taxi. A good tour of the motorhome and we are now coming to terms with it all.

I think Janey truly felt earlier this evening that we'd made a big mistake, and I could see here evil eyes looking at me as if to say "We could be in a nice hotel right". That has now passed, and only myself and Janey remain awake. Securing running water seems to be the final challenge of mastering our new home. Driving the beast isn't easy - it's a big old thing. But it's very comfortable and has plenty of space. We're parked up in the RV camp on the beach here at Malibu as a temporary measure. We'll move onto Huntington for a few days and then onto San Diego, where the weather and surf should be better. The boys are of course loving it and over excited all the time. It's going to be an adventure - "takes a couple of days to get into it" said the lady.

We expected the pound to do us well over here and so far there is a difference in value. We bought the boys some heelies as a reward for being fantastic on the plane - they were only £20. Aren't they like £60 at home. Computer games etc all that stuff is also about half the price - which is good when Christmas is only a few days away. Taxis are about the same though, as are Mcdonalds and chocolate. The milk over here is lovely!

19th December

“But I’m not happy with the layout!” the smartly dressed lady complained as we walked through business class. I recalled those sentiments as I sat with my knees hugging my chest - 6ft 2inches in these circumstances is no advantage. I’ve just been brought back to life by the emergence of iceburgs floating beneath, somewhere near Greenland. Reflecting the sun they are simply stunning. I’m not sure I’ve seen any before.

Fin is asleep, Billy is watching Shrek - we’re 4 hours into what has been an unremarkable journey so far. Another 6 hrs and 40 mins to go on this time machine. All is well. Have tucked into sausages and mash and a first reserve packet of mini eggs. Being a chocoholic I grade holidays on choice of bar. Brussels - awesome, numero uno. Canaries - so, so. America - poor, v. poor. Which comes as a surprise. Must be the supersize fries. A Hersheys in my opinion, and I’ve done considerable research in this field, doesn’t cut it and the bar sizes aren’t big enough. Supersize the chocolate bar, that’s my message to the Americans.

My inflight screen is showing me that we’re 3409miles from LA, but making good progress at 563mph. 6hrs 20 mins to go. Bit bored now - the only thing keeping me awake is the rush of the Big Toblerone, the passengers stepping on my toes as they go walkabout and the stewards whacking my right knee with the duty free trolley (the mixed blessings of long legs and the aisle seat). The baby in front will stop screaming soon - he will! 6hrs 14mins. Time is going backwards, literally.

a bit later ... we'll we've arrived. We have a night at the Holiday Inn next to the airport, before picking up the RV in the morning. The boys were both fantastic on the flight - very easy and that included waiting 50 mins on the tarmac once we'd arrived at LA airport whist a plane blocked our gate. And included the 90 minute process of getting through customs. Our time clocks are off and although in LA time it's still early, we're flagging. I think we'll go for the early night - pretty sure we'll sleep through.

As for the weather, warm, humid cloudy.

18th December

I threw a few things into the back of the car. Janey didn't seem too pleased but it's all old news to her - think she's given up trying to train me. So what to take? Wetsuit, camera, video camera, laptop, skateboard, helmet - done. "Clothes? Are you going to want to change when you're over there?" sighed Janey. Oh yes, detail. Okay run into the office and grab a few tees and hoodies, chuck into back of Defender - job's a goodun. I don't know why some people get so stressed.

Anyway, stage one of the journey complete!! We're in London (Cobham to be precise - surrounded by Chelsea footballers!) - took 7 hours! Good training for tomorrow. The boys have just run in naked - yes, their excited to be going on hols.

Janey's ordered me out into the cold to find some space in the already full bags for my gear. The way I see it - as long as you've got the passport, drivers licence and mastercard - well it's all very good value over there!!

Annual review will continue whilst I'm away - also hoping to get a few of the DVD's finished of the overseas trips we've done with the Boardriders.

17th December

Annual Review

The surf school for the past 12 years has been built around the foundation of the beach operation. As the business has grown, so the foundations have had to be strengthened. Securing the five year trading licence on Polzeath beach was the first step in this process. Selling our surf lodge at Port Isaac and buying the Beach House right was the second step. A stroke of genius. With these in place we put ourselves for the first time ever in a position to look at the long term.

Surf's Up HQ

The Office

Here she is on the left hand side. What a difference this has made - the epicentre of the Surf's Up! operation. Always buzzing, this is where it all happens. Bookings, hoodies, video analysis, admin, showers, surf reports - it's a busy place

The Accommodation

The right hand building in the photo. Sleeps up to 12 people. What a base - right on the beach. Everyone loves it here. Very happy clients - and right in the heart of what's going on. I think they find being so close to what's going on, and seeing it first hand, quite inspirational.

The Garden

Behind these buildings - it overlooks the beach. The skate ramp has been a huge hit and this is the home for the Surf's Up! Boardriders. The place to hang in the summer.

Beach Operations

Whatever we do and wherever Surf's Up! goes as a company, the single most important thing for us to focus on is the quality of the surf lessons. To be passionate about surfing and passionate about wanting others to enjoy it as much as we do. To give every person that comes through our door an experience that they'll want to have again, and again. To be inclusive and welcome people from all walks of life into our way of life. As long as we get that right then we can move forwards. And that's why we made quite a few changes to the beach ops this year. A few changes to the look etc. But watch this space as next year sees the biggest changes.

to be continued later today .. need a pasty and Libby needs a walk!

17th December

So what does a normal Craskey morning look like? Janey takes the kids to school, while I rustle up some breakfast. My recent hamstring injury has put paid to any training and diet regime, normally associated with this time of year, so I cook myself bacon and eggs - and finish it off with a couple of plain digestives and a cup of coffee. I'll check the e-mails and the latest news on BBC and Sky news online whilst sitting in front of the window looking out over the sea. This morning it's blue, blue skies - surf 3ft. Then it's off either to the beach by foot with Libby, doing a closer surfing inspection on the way. Or across the fields to the rumps and back to the beach on the coastal path. In the office, Janey, Julia and JD (all the j's) are normally already hard at it. I begin the day the working day with a Mocha from the Costcutter deli. That's where I'm off to now. I'll take a photo on the way through this morning.

Here's the photo - a couple of foot, three people out and only one of them is riding the unbroken waves.

Aladin yesterday was a triumph - the kids all enjoyed it. And we had our family Christmas dinner, which was very tasy. Bit weird having it before the big day, but it worked well.

Two sleeps to go!

16th December

"Behind you!" - it's panto down in Truro today. Surf pumping again! Maybe Polzy is the new Indo - climate change and all that - over millions of years there must be a wave cycle. I'm not cancelling my Feb flight to Bali just yet though. Global warming - warmer seas, warmer air temp, more unsettled weather patterns (ie more rain) we should at least give is a chance. There you go - the slogan for the Surfer's Party -"give global warming a chance" - it's a winner. I shall become the next PM - all schools to relocate next to the sea and have at least half the day, everyday in the surf. If only the kids could vote!! Down with Brown - is he any good? I'm not a huge fan of Piers Morgan but I did l