Log0043 | Shores

From frequent walks and runs up and down La Jolla Shores I have come to learn who the other local patrons are and the differing ways in which they use the beach.

This older man was an anomaly among all the local anomalies. I would see him slowly meander along the boardwalk, tilting into each trash drum - checking its contents - then moving to the next. He would fill his own trash bag with the bottles and cans he collected. I could only assume to return to the factory for the 5¢ redemption fee. Another tough way to make crust. No doubt this worked for him though, given he kept coming back; day after day, week after week. Often, but not always, he would put the can on the ground and a foot on the can, crushing it down to squeeze into the bag. The more he could fit the better.

He wore a wide brimmed hat, baggy pants and long sleeves regardless of the summer heat. Protection from the sun seemed to be an ever important feature, even though year-round his skin held that deep suncharred bronze typical of those who had spent considerable years working outdoors.
I really knew nothing about him, but I did always see him at Shores.