I have found a new favorite hang out spot in Santa Cruz. Seabright is a part of Santa Cruz that has its own chill, beach-side feel to it and has quite a bit to offer. I never really ventured over there last year because it is a bit further from campus than I was willing to wander as freshman. But, a lot of my friends live in the neighborhood this year and I keep finding myself really enjoying times in the Seabright area. The rock climbing gym is there, the best bread store in town is there, and the famous Seabright brewery. Friday nights are in my opinion the most fun at the brewery. There is a live band every week and a rather eclectic crowd filling the dance floor. Most of the college students sit outside on the patio enjoying a variety of delicious beers brewed locally. You don't have to be 21 do get in so there are always young kids running around the dance floor, little girls dancing with their dads. Tonight we saw a whole family grooving to the band and dancing. Then, there are the older couples who are just an endless source of live entertainment. It is always so encouraging and wonderful for me to see older couples so excited about life and so in love with their partners and with their lives. Often, some of the homeless dudes wander in to show their moves and groove to a few beats. There are always a few complete lone rangers just dancing the night away and completely content with their state of mind and solitary state of being. There are the regulars you see every friday, relief for the end of the week and excitement for the weekend written all over their faces. There are the new-comers, sometimes awkwardly trying to find their place in such a diverse setting. And lots of good beer! Overall, the energy is very upbeat, positive, open, and loving. I hope to spend many more hours dancing to live music at Seabright Brewery throughout the course of my time in Santa Cruz.