The Day After Independence

Low, ominous clouds darkened the river. The occasional smell of rotting vegetation wafted on the slight breath of a breeze almost cool enough to condense the moisture in the air to mist. An Osprey flittered around its nest, like some demented moth battering away at a light bulb, reacting to the noisy chicks begging for food. Turns and gulls patrolled the air seeing what could be seen. Not eager to spend energy actively hunting but not willing to hide from the threatening sky.

Carl and I watched from the landing while we waited for the customers to show up for their tour. Paddling in this type of weather was perfect. A short time later we were gliding across the glassy water introducing our clients to the wonders of the West Branch and kayaking.

I love kayaking. The feeling of sliding into a boat and slipping into the water is as comfortable as pulling into a friend’s driveway and walking into their house. A sunrise or sunset on quiet water to enjoy the beauty of nature, traveling along the coast in 20 knot winds and 4 foot seas as a challenge to be in the now, weaving through a rock garden playing with the skills of control or flying down a wave in a mix of fear and exhilaration are all activities that make me happy to be alive and human. Running a class where both the students and I feed off of each other’s love of what we are doing is as big a rush as any I have experienced.

Saturday was one of those days that make this all so addicting for me. The students were excited to be doing this thing. Their energy amped mine and the questions they raised throughout the day added to the depth of the course. I was stunned that they wolfed down their lunch faster than I could and were edgy to get going again. When we reached the end of the class, they were tired but happy and still interested. I love this sport.

Buying a boat

Hey folks!

Just though I would write a little bit on boat selection. I have spent some time talking to people about which boats would be best for them and I believe it comes down to a few simple items -

• Does the kayak put a smile on your face? If you don't like being in the boat, why waste your money?


• Does the kayak do what you want it to do? Go for the boat that does what you want to do and does it well.
  
• Think about where you want to be in a year...will the boat be able to do it.
  
• Plastic vs composite...glass, kevlar or carbon/kevlar boats have many advantages over plastic boats but generally cost more. If your first boat is composite, be aware that it may take some abuse that it wouldn't necessarily take once you have experience. Plastic boats can take quite a bit of abuse but may not have quite the qualities you want.


• You can always fit out a boat for comfort after you purchase it. Many composite boats can be specially ordered with adjustments built in but may take longer to get.


• Try any boat you are thinking about purchasing. You wouldn't buy a car without a test drive right?

So that is a brief intro to purchasing a boat. Get as much information as you can from many different sources.