DAY 16 - FIRE & DRONES

I should've bought a lotto on Friday because I was on a streak of luck! My boyfriend Hue had a lot of firewood leftover so he gave them to me for a beach bonfire. I had never done a bonfire at Bolsa Chica Beach, so I invited a few friends to join me.

I had assumed that since there were 200 pits, surely one would be available Friday afternoon. Boy was I wrong. Every. Effing. Pit. TAKEN.

My friend and I went around asking people if they would kindly share their pit, but to no surprise we were met with hesitation especially considering how long everyone had been staking out their spot.

BEACH GOER #1: "Hmm... well you'll have to ask my son because he's been here since 11am saving the pit."

We completely understood the hesitation because, rightly so, they did take the time to come early. As my friend and I were walking back to my car, I noticed a family packing up their belongings. I ran to them and asked if the pit was being used.

BEACH GOERS #2: "We're tapping out early so you can go ahead and use it."

YEEEESSSSSSSS!!!

Right in time for the sunset.

FRIEND: "So what's your 29 at 29 activity for today?"

ME: "Honestly I have no idea. I can't really count this because I've done bonfires at a beach before. What I REALLY wanted to do was fly a drone, but 1) I don't know many people who have one and 2) even if I did, I'm not sure if they would let me fly it."

My coworkers arrived and I had noticed that one of then was lagging behind. To my shock, there he was, FLYING AN EFFING DRONE!

WUUUU?? What are the odds?? I had never even mentioned my idea and there he was with a drone.

It was pretty interesting flying one. Have you ever played with a remote controlled toy car or toy helicopter? It was a lot like that but a bit more involved. Obviously, drones vary in quality and this was no exception. With the press of a button, it could automatically launch and also locate coordinates for landing safely.

Other features tracked wind velocity, flight height, and even if it was encroaching on a "no fly zone."

I personally have mixed feelings about drones, but when properly, respectfully, and safely used, it can be a very useful tool.

Overall, it was fun hanging out with friends. I'm glad things worked out!

Oh! And it was one of my coworker's 25th birthday!!! HAPPY BIRTHDAY!

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DAY 16 - Fly a drone [COMPLETE]

• My thoughts?

• ​Flying the drone was pretty fun, but I can see how you need to practice a few times to achieve smooth panning and overall movement.

• Would I do it again?

• ​Yes but depending on the location and purpose. If it's legal and respecting the privacy and safety of others, then yes.

• Did I crash/damage the drone?

• No, thank God. But I can totally see how that would be possible.

• What did I learn?

• People have varying opinions about technology and we need to respect different perspectives.

• It's important to get the "okay" to film footage with a drone.

• Be mindful of your surroundings whenever you do activities out in public, otherwise you may damage property or hurt others.

• If you want a bonfire pit but don't want to wait all day for a spot, arrive an hour after sunset and I'm pretty sure you'll be able to find some available.