Irvine is an interesting place. Almost all the land is owned by one company that, since the 60s, has been trying to construct the best living environment they can by careful planning and restrained development. They've done a pretty good job so far. Between all the tree-lined streets, public parks, and shared amenities, the standard of living is almost as high as the property prices.
One of the latest projects is Orange County Great Park, a huge tract of land given over to various recreational activities. The particular activity that we were interested in was the balloon, which offers free flights up to 500ft. Free and bloggable, the perfect combination.
The best laid plans, blah blah, and inevitably the wind blew up and in the litigation-prone culture of SoCal we were all grounded. No matter! The park office has loads of sports equipment also available for free to anyone who asks. I handed over my drivers licence in exchange for a football (a fair deal).
Three minutes of running around led to a number of conclusions. One, we are all very bad at football. Two, we are no longer teenagers. Three (related to two) fitness levels could do with some work.
The grounded balloon left us deflated.
But what's this? James 'Maradona' Holland displays exceptional ball skills (and not a hand in sight).
Hannah 'Pele' Davies sets up a precision cross.
David 'Ginola' Davies...at least has the hair.
But Frankie 'Lampard' Holland is upset to be benched for this match.
Team photo.
