Tribute

As we know, Eskimos used kayaks for their livelihood, all year long in all kinds of weather. Of course, they had/have seal-skin parkas, mukluks and clothing to keep them warm as a way of life. Those of us who live further down on the globe need to gather such items to keep warm if we want to take in a snowy day on the lake-which is what I did recently with my son, Matthew.
Their family came down for Thanksgiving dinner the weekend before and he had expressed a desire to go kayaking with me before he left for Iraq for a contract job. He's been there before with the Gaurd and as a deployment while in the army. Those assignments have not been without the hardships, and the physical and mental wear and tear, that our soldiers experience while on duty. His simple statement, when I mentioned it may be snowing when he came, was- "that would be kinda peaceful". After waffling a bit, I called Mary and Lee who kindly brought up an extra kayak for him to use.
We went to Moore Park Marina and set out for a short paddle along the south shore. It was snowing, and spray skirts kept us warm as we paddled with the wind and snow. I watched Matthew as we paddled along and it was gratifying to see him occasionally pause, and lift his face into the falling snow, gathering that peace that I know we have all gathered when finding ourselves in an awesome place that we have paddled across. As we headed back to shore against the wind, I made 'notes of learning'-like maybe snow goggles and a billed cap to keep the flying snow out of my eyes-but not regretting the winter weather for the time spent with my son. I felt it was a small thing that I could do for him as soldier and as my son.
When I mention Matthews service, I am asked to tell him, 'Thank You for your service." I trust the time he gathered at the lake, in the snow, will serve as both healing and thanks, and come back to him time and again and serve as a purpose for paddling again.
To all our soldiers that serve our country- "Thank you."

Pop In For An Idea

While the snow flies,and our kayaks are 'resting', others are thinking of warmer climes and exploring our curious planet for the wanderering. Here is a recent email from Martine from our San Juan Island visit to whet your imagination and power your planning 'beyond the snow':


"Greetings! So I was thinking about you and your group of ladies and was wondering if you are still interested in Baja possible in March when I will be leading 2 trips on March 6-13 and March 13-20, 2011.
Alaska Airlines just put flights on sale to Mexico and Baja and this time of year it sounds like the perfect getaway with all the wet and cold weather we have been experiencing in the Northwest. You would fly in and out of Loreto and I think it would be a wonderful paddle adventure for you and a group of ladies. Where the paddle trip is run outside of the Loreto area is one of my favorite places in the world to kayak in the world. It would be great if you could get 10 to 12 ladies to fill the trip but even if just a few women could join the tour I know everyone would have a trip of a life time in Baja.
We run week long tours in the Loreto area and both trips have space availability and I have enclosed the link about the trip.
Kayak Trips in Mexico’s Blue Whale Triangle & Loreto Islands Park
Detailed itinerary for our most popular Baja kayak trip: Sea Kayaking with Blue Whales in the Loreto Islands Marine Park.
Loreto is a very safe community and there are many fun things to do in the Loreto area and here a few suggestions:
· Whale Watching Tours with Gray Whales in Baja’s Magdalena Bay
(If you could down to Loreto a few days earlier than the kayak tour I could set up a trip to Magdalena Bay for you) Detailed itinerary for the Gray Whale Watching Safari Camp in Magdalena Bay of Baja Mexico - pet the friendly gray whales and their calves!
If you like history and rugged scenery, you should visit the 300-year old San Javier Mission in the Sierra Giganta Mountains. You can rent a car and take the drive yourself (it is easy to find the mission as the road goes directly there) or you can hire a taxi. Be sure to check with local folks before departing as heavy rains can severely damage the road.
Sport fishing is excellent in the Sea of Cortez. I recommend the Baja Big Fish Company www.bajabigfish.com. A few years ago I went on a sunrise fishing trip with them and they did a really nice job.
The Dolphin Dive Center www.dolphindivebaja.com has scuba and snorkel trips. I suggest visiting Coronado Island (in view a few miles north of Loreto) for an easy day trip to a beautiful destination that does not duplicate areas you will visit on your kayaking expedition
Here is a link for more travel and tourism information for the Loreto area http://www.loreto.com

Sea Quest Kayaking / Adventure Quest Tours

Whale and Wildlife-watching in the

Premier Sea Kayaking Destinations

http://www.sea-quest-kayak.com/whales.htm

Denial

...is not a river in Egypt to kayak down. However, when I was forced to admit I stowed my kayak in the garage to make room for the trailer to escape the rain.... I denied it was storaged for winter! Twice! What I was thinking was I would never say I would be unavailable to go kayaking if the opportunity came up and the day was good, and the water suitable. I have missed the opportunity this year to trip Spring Creek when the leaves would have turned color. Perhaps next year the window won't be quite so narrow, or I won't be dragging my feet to make it happen. In a way, it's good that things don't turn out perfectly all the time, and instead, leave a little seed behind that gets watered by determination for 'next time...' There are however, other signs for the casual kayaker that the season has closed down. In Sunday's paper, on page A3, was the title "Campgrounds, launches now closed". Fourmile is closed due to snow and downed trees; water is shut off in campgrounds; and gates have been swung shut to traffic wherever they have been placed across campground and day use areas. It's time to hunker down for winter, upgrade my sweater to a jacket, and set out more candles for the darker, colder corners of my house. Yet, I hold out hope, that a warm spell, a fall Chinook wind might make things bright on a day I have off work, and I would slide my kayak over the trailer onto my car and enjoy a fall paddle. Even if it was 'just' down at the lake near our house-what could be more satisfying?

Changing Seasons

The ambient air is either warm or cold. Air currents make you think you should be wearing something besides a t-shirt, but a spot in the sun begs otherwise. Welcome to Fall! It's actually well underway, and many activities feel like 'just one more' before the snow starts to fly and there is no question of jackets, hats and gloves. So, it was with pleasure to kayak down the slow and easy lower stretch of the Wood River and simply enjoy the cool/warm air. The current is casual and we enjoyed time in conversation, exchanging pictures on our phones, and on the last stretch, paddling side by side in our version of the Magnificent Seven-no, make that Four...
Whenever that last 'just one more' paddle happens, thoughts of storing our kayaks for the winter make their play. A couple of things come to mind when I consider storing my kayak. One-wiping down the outer surface, of any additional grime. Ideally, I would have done this after our last paddle to keep up with the 'clean-boat-in-other-waters' -law. Wiping down the inside and using a piece of duct tape to pick up small stones that couldn't be caught with the rag. Two--propping open my hatch, after wiping down the inside, to avoid a trapped air stink smell; and Three--covering the hatch and cockpit with covers. Nothing like seeing a spider crawl out from under your seat in the middle of a long rapid stretch....of course, that could just be my imagination working overtime.
Take the winter to consider new rivers to paddle, places to paddle camp, acquiring gear-like inflatable bulkheads for your river-runner; maybe clothes to keep you dry when the splashing gets rough, or the weather colder, and we'll be out on the water again in no time! ...or sooner.

A Touch of Waldo

An overnight trip to Waldo Lake with Lisa, Mary, and Charlotte, yielded the desired introduction to one of my favorite camping places. I gave in to nostalgic storytelling, pointing out the different sites our family had camped in over the years and enjoying the memories while making new ones and imagining more to come. While the afternoon we arrived proved to be cool, damp, and expectedly windy for the paddle outing, the next day was the welcome and promised change in weather. The water was clear and the shadow of our kayaks reflected on the lake bottom as we paddled on the calm water with a sense of wonder. An amazing shade of blue teased us for naming.
The shore line on the opposite side from the Islet boat launch was our destination and a quick examination proved that the north end was pretty rocky, and not open for camp sites. As we exited the lake, another group of paddlers were preparing to set out complete with a triple seater kayak, and what looked like a ton of gear! We saw quite a few kayakers, and one kayak equipped with a sail and twin stabilizers. He would have to go to the West side to catch the wind however....
Mary had a good eye for the return place on the shore, and the glare from a car window helped us spot the return point. I chided myself for marking the horizen point off and thought of the helpfulness in using a compass, at the least, to note a back azmuth. It would have saved me a bit of extra paddling off course. Next time....

Know Your Limits

I enjoy reading the journal entries describing personal experiences along their paddling ventures. Each one shares a picture of another advance in a learning curve that solely belongs to the individual. Mary's latest entry for instance, describes her trip testing her limits on rapids, in her kayak and (gratefully) wearing a helmet; Lisa reflects on re-evaluating the need for a paddle leash and learning the value of having a knife close at hand and having a greater respect for the power of water flow. A lesson, I was forced to remember last week while trying to exit my kayak in a not-so-optimal spot and snapping my paddle in half in the process. Whatever our experiences become, we learn what we can manage and what challenges the edges of our tolerance level. Enter Wisdom. My dream is paddle camping. Rivers and rapids are a challenge that I'm willing to test now and again. I am considering purchasing a shorter kayak to take on "The Rogue!" and smaller rivers to enjoy greater maneuverability. My primary dream keeps me going in a direction and proscribes limits, or borders. Along the way, I'm gathering valuable knowledge of how and what I manage, and stretching those borders inch by inch or mile by mile, whichever way the river bends. And makes my ability much more flexible for more situations.
Thought for the day:
"Kayakers don't retire-they just move to another body of water."

Rivers

The Rogue River holds an allure partly due to a lot of advertising done for the summer months for people to come "Raft the Rogue River!" But when you get on the river, the appeal grabs you by the paddle and never lets go. With about 22 class II rapids between the put in by the dam, and Shady Cove, a stretch of about 13 miles in three hours, the river run never gets uninteresting or boring. It's a waterway that demands respect and attention, but gives a nice ride for your time and effort. It's also a teaching run, many of the rapids could also be gone around if one chose to. One of our group, Lisa, learned something about the power of a strainer when attempting to get to another boater whose raft was pinned on the tree, and he was sitting on top among jagged tree limbs. The story turns out well-Lisa has or will have a journal entry... and I'll add my details a little later.
At the other end of the scale is the upper Wood River. A terrific workout along a twisty run that works paddlers while giving a joy ride among meadows and farm land. See my journal entry for more details.
Paddling is enjoyable and on the water is a great place to be on a sunny hot day in the company of friends. Charlotte and I got stuck on the same sand bar at the same time once. It just happened that I grabbed her boat, gave it a tug; she grabbed mine, gave it a push-and voila'! We were both free! When paddling in groups, space is good, and workable. Keeping each other in sight is good practice.

The Learning Curve

I've used this title before and put it on our book section to list useful books for reference. Today, I'm using the title to comment on the 'tween' times when down time from kayaking, for instance, can also mean time to pick up a book and learn vicariously from someone else's experiences. One such book recently was "San Juan Canyons" -A River Runner's Guide. (Baars and Stevenson) Printed on waterproof paper, it's filled with river maps and features, animal and plant drawings, history, and written with scientific terms in viewing the rock and land features along the route. Other books on my shelf about Sea Kayaking, including outfitting, kayak handling and navigation should I decide to return to San Juan Islands to kayak in ocean waters with a persoanlity of their own.
"River Rescue" is a good source book, but it really takes practice to remember all the things one can do to effectively help in time of need. I conclude today with three pointers: 1) take the time to read and learn. New terms and information increase understanding when experienced, and aid in communication; 2) When possible, follow-up with hands-on. Either by training classes or practice with someone experienced with what you want to learn. 3)Do it. Be prepared. You wanted to learn because it interested you, now, follow it through.

San Juan Visited-Part 2

No need to repeat what Mary's journal entry says! Please read it, if you haven't already-she says it all perfectly what the 'part 2' of our visit to San Juan was all about. Lisa has added pictues, including the whale tails:) and Sondra! Pictures of their excursion to Sidny. There's been a little chatter about a future kayak adventure, but right now it seems to be shuffled around behind getting back to our everyday stuff. Not bad, and not to worry-the August calendar is up with a paddle for Friday, August 6-see the calendar for details.
I drove to Lake of the Woods yesterday for a brief morning paddle to take in serene waters and mountain views. What I got was a brisk wind whipping up water and splashing boat waves over my bow as I headed east into the wind from Aspen boat launch. Though the wind decreased by the time I reached the other side of the resort area, it took me half as much time to make the return trip. Kayak surfing anyone?

San Juan Visited

We threw off the bowlines and made for the ocean. Well, our kayaks didn't have bowlines, but we made it into the water just in time to see a pod of Orcas swim by in the nearby channel. If we'd been on land, we would have missed it. At least one of us got a got a shot of fins in the distance. Martine, our group leader, theorized that it could have been a sleep cycle as they were passing by slowly, just barely breaking water. We went on along the shore and ate our lunch near the lighthouse. The water was a cool 51 degrees, breezes were light, and temperatures just about perfect for an afternoons paddle. Kayaking in the ocean we found, involves a lot more water! -the currents mean business and require constant attention, and sea kelp is "the kayakers friend" as Martine explained that it is anchored to the ocean floor and provides a place to rest if needed. The entire experience lasted only the afternoon, but was just enough to leave a taste for more. We all agreed the kayaks were amazing. Bouyant, light in the water and stable, easy to handle, except for the short legged, (like me) who couldn't quite reach the peddles to steer.
I hope you will read the journal to the right and that guests and paddlers will comment about their kayaking experience and perspective. I thought the Paddlin'Chix made quite a nice Pod out there on the water!
Next week: San Juan and ...What Else?

Summer in the Middle

"20 years from now you will be more dissappointed by the things you didn't do than by the ones you did. So, throw off the bowlines. Sail away from the safe harbor. Catch the trade winds in your sails. Explore. Dream. Discover." --Mark Twain
The Paddlin'Chix are going to San Juan! From our various walks of life, we will gather to share an experience that I for one truly hope would represent the time of the year-in the middle. So much more to come. So much to learn, so many friends to share this wonderful time of life with. Ok. Back to the trip. The sticky notes are reducing as the list is checked off; the call to reserve the moped...pending this morning; final clothing and packing calendared...yes..I said "on the calendar" -you know what I mean. It's easy for me to think of what I want to 'be prepared'-one of the mottos of Girl Scouts that stuck, and experiencing outdoor activities when something vital went missing. That thinking is being tempered now in a 'backflow' where I tutor myself by saying, some things you can leave. 'Reduction' and 'non-duplication' are words to guide the baggage train. I'm too much into "being prepared" to go minimalist...yet.
Bottom Line: Time to throw off the bowlines! Let's Go Discover!

McCloud-part 2

A group of us went back to check out the Hearst Wyntoon-Bend castle site off the McCloud Lake and found the amazing structure 'just around the bend'. We had a new challenge (at least for me) to paddle upstream against a nice 'bumpy' swift current. To negotiate it we had to cut cross water into an area that was less swift right towards the shore of the estate. After enjoying this exercise, and drifting back with the flow, we paused to enjoy our lunch and gain an additional view from the opposite side. A nearby creek joined the river and washed out tan colored sediment we named for various coffee drinks, and coloring the water for a ways downstream. On the way back out, we heard the sound of trickling water and found it under the overhanging branches of a tree growing over a rock that dripped with water from the hill. Many of us wished we could take it home, but took only pictures instead. Later, I thought of a name for it- water being pressed through a rock shot through with roots, dripping into a large lake of water, making such a lovely sound--I would call it "Plumber's Nightmare". For this lovely picture and other descriptions of what and where we went, please view the photo album named "Wyntoon". Thanks to Mary for the photos and the details that make this and other outings more interesting and enjoyable.

McCloud Lake 3 Day Camp, Paddle and Hike

After all of Becky's wonderful research about Waldo Lake, we were not able to camp and paddle there because the access road was still snowed in. Instead, four of us, Sondra, Charlotte, Anne and I (Mary) camped at Star City Creek Campground on McCloud Lake. Truly, God gave us a packaged deal on this trip - a gorgeous, private campsite; beautiful, clear turquoise water; creeks, a river and an island to explore; fish jumping right outside our tent door; wildlife (ducks and their ducklings, eagles and deer); hiking one of the most beautiful trails in Northern CA. And, as if that wasn't enough, He gave us the gift of each other with such abundant love and grace; care, concern and cooperation; joking and laughing; camaraderie and solidarity; that none of us doubted that we were truly loved and blessed! Thank you, Lord

Some pictures have been uploaded to the photo album with more to follow. Even though the campground was very primative (no toilets, tables or tap water) we had all of the comforts we needed.

One thing we still want to accomplish is a paddle trip up McCloud River to Wyntoon , the Hearst Estate with its various castles. We were told by a man at the campground that the lake is currently being filled for the 4th of July weekend which backs the water up in the river making it navigable with kayaks. We are planning to return to the area on July 8th to attempt the approximate 7.5 mile RT paddle trip up to Wyntoon.

Waldo Lake-Part 4

Bugs 'n Insects!
Waldo Lake is one of many high elevation lake areas well known for its mosquitoe population and the many smaller lakes in the surrounding wilderness make this especially true for the early spring summer months. There is a small window before they burst on the scene, when it is still cool, to camp as long as you aren't shoveling snow aside! The mosquito population starts dropping late July and by late August to September, and even early October before the snows begin again are the best for avoiding the clouds of little whiners.
Emphasized note: If you plan on hiking into the wilderness, be prepared for increased mosquitoe populations especially near the small lake areas.
See you at the Lake!

Waldo Lake-Part 3

Points Of Interest
One of the things that always held my curiosity and eventually drove me to an across the lake canoe trip, is a structure that looks like a railroad support. It is in fact the Klovdahl Dam, or Klovdahl Tunnel. Originally purposed to provide irrigation water to the valley below, it never took off and is now sealed. There is an information board near the structure that will tell you more.
The trail that leads around Waldo Lake is 22 miles in length with many off-running trails into the Waldo Lake Wilderness. The Pacific Crest Trail passes to the East of Waldo Lake and the nearest trailhead is off the Waldo Lake road at Charlton Lake.
There are three campgrounds on the eastern shore with 205 campsites with boat ramps at each, Harrelson Horse camp, and of course numerous boat-in spots on the western shore which we will find.
On August 23, 1996, we were in the area and saw the forest fire at Waldo Lake. Today, the burn is still in the recovery stages and can be seen from the Islet Campground boat ramp. Camping there is not recommended due to the fragile environment and dead trees that can fall. Also, if hiking through the area, exposed roots and deep holes may dot the trails and throughout the burned area.
An excellent addition to our blog is the calendar created by Mary just to right of the top post. Check it out!
Next week: "Readiness Pointers"

Waldo Lake-Part 2

Geology
This area is in the midst of intense volcanic and glacier events. Through the alternating eruptions and glacial erosions the landscape is dotted with lake basins and scattered volcanic peaks. Mt. Mazama, now known as Crater Lake, spewed airborne pumice into the area which now forms Waldo Lakes sandy beaches.
Waldo Lake is one of Oregon's largest natural lakes at an elevation of 5,414 feet with 9.8 square miles of water with a maximum depth of 427 feet. It is one of the purest lakes in the world due to the absense of permenant inlets to bring nutrients into the lake for plant growth. Bottom dwelling plants, aquatic insects, amphibians and fish live in Waldo Lake. On a nice day one could see to depths of over 120 feet through the cold blue water, and when the sun is behind you, your shadow follows your own watery course from below.
Next: Points of Interest

Waldo Lake-Part 1

"History of Waldo Lake"
Charilie Tufti, a Molalla Indian, is the legendary person to have discovered Waldo Lake. The area was probably home to Klamath, Calapooya, and Molalla Native American peoples. Settlers first explored the area in the 1800's, and found it great for hunting, camping, fur trapping, and fishing. Sheep grazing was also suitable, and sheep 'driveways' remain to this day and are now known as the Irish-Taylor Road. Judge John Breckenridge Waldo is the Lake's namesake, and was renamed from "Pengra Lake". The original North Waldo and Taylor Burn Forest Camps were constructed by the Civilian Conservation Corps (CCC) in 1939. The 37,162-acre Waldo Lake Wilderness was established in 1984.
Next week: "Geology of Waldo Lake"

The View

I am still thinking of our paddling to campout on Lake Shasta. In particular, a morning hike following the slope on a neglected path that meandered past mystery storage tanks, and mystery pipes plunging into the ground. The path dissappeared into a growing wave of blackberry vines that bordered the uphill stream. Nevertheless, there were places to look out over the lake and drink in the morning view. One such view looked over a part of the lake with several promontory's overlapping, as well as the background hills, and rills. The sky was hazy, with scattered undefined clouds, and a jet cloud streak or two. A light breeze or boat disturbed the lake in the distance and the overall effect was antedeluvian, or just plain ancient.
Photos and a memory, and the feeling of peace- just some of the things available by kayak.

Flowers at Shasta Lake

Here's a little extra from our trip to Shasta Lake:
One of my smaller interests is the identification of wildflowers. In the book "Pacific Northwest Wildflowers" -AFalcon Guide, the purple flowers we were calling 'wild lilac' is more commonly known as 'Blue Blossom'. I'll skip the scientific name, but the final comment is, "In California this species may resemble a small tree growing to 25' in height with a 5-12" thick trunk. Also called California Lilac." Now we know!

Shasta Lake

The day to post a note slid by as I relaxed after packing my last two recently purchased dry bags. I had been packing bit by bit after or before going to work all week, and finally felt I could relax. The final packing item was to see where everything fit in the kayak and finally, after shoving this bag here and squishing that bag there, I was satisfied with only one mystery remaining: Will she float or wail with overload agony?
Now, for the REST of the story:
LAKE SHASTA CAMPOUT
As I sit here contemplating the next thought, I am re-living the sensation of bobbing on the waves created by passing speed boats on Lake Shasta. The Last twenty-four hours seems packed with more experience than just the marking of time could tell. In a nutshell, we tested kayak packing, camping equipment, and exchanged information on our individual items of interest. Everyone, it seemed, had something that they learned this trip which they planned to put to use on the Waldo Lake trip. We had good laughing times, too, and pictures that will tell you about what...
It was a good weekend, and successful as well as educational. Mary and I are interested in creating a journal for others to write some of thier perspectives of their experiences and we'll see what we can do to make that happen. A good way to start is to simply write a comment. Pleae do!

Happy Mother's Day!

This has been a busy week, and the usual Thursday entry was left at home in favor of an overnight campout at Lava Beds to test the temperature rating of my Marmot sleeping bag and the ease of set-up of the Eureka! tent. Both, I am happy to report, turned out favorably in the decidedly frigid temperatures. During the day which warmed up...some... my daughter and I hiked a few caves in temps that were probably warmer than outside. Meanwhile, several others paddled the Sprague with spray skirts and neoprene gloves on water levels reported to be a little higher than usual, making the flow on the swift side. Thursday evening, we met and compared stories, and made final departure notes for our Shasta Lake camp/paddle. We are all eager, I would say, to see how this middle ground between camping and backpacking works out. A little more than a backpack, but much less than a family tent and camp kitchen--the size and weight capacity of the kayak and packing skills will be factors of deciding what can or can't go. The issue of keeping things water resistant and retrievable once packed in the kayak, are also on my list of final preparations. It will be nice to get away, and hopefully the weather will co-operate!
Be sure and check out Mary's sailing video link located down in 'Fun Stuff'. She makes it look fun and easy!

Paddling on A Mirror

Friday proved to be another spot of sunshine in between storm systems, as five of us set out from Hagelstein Park off Hwy 97, to retrace the route Mary and her husband had taken a few days before. She reported seeing sucker fish gathered in the freshwater where the springs come up along the lake shore. Sure enough, a nice little group was tucked into the rocks where the clear water flows. We were hoping for a breeze as Mary wanted to inaugurate her sail, but only gentle breath-like breezes graced the air. I have a picture of a lovely reflection of her sail on the lake...
It was remarkable to paddle on a flat lake surface. It didn't seem like you were paddling fast, or slow, or at all! Overheard: "It seems harder to paddle!" Yet, as I sliced through the flat murky water, marking passage by landmarks, trees, sometimes pausing long enough for my wake to overtake me, I thought- on a day like this, I could go on and on with time marked only by the distant shore and the passing of the sun.

Spring??

The question on everyone's lips this week has been the same, "Is it really Spring??"  That snow dump truly made it hard to believe.  But, if you look for the OTHER signs, you know that like us, it's a waiting game.  Buds are getting bigger, flowers are at the edge of blooming; things are poking through the ground, and plants in protected areas 'ain't waitin' no moe!!  and bear the snow.  It's Oregon after all-wait ten minutes and the weather will change!  So, counting on that this Friday,  Mary plans to try out her kayak with sail on the lake.  Hopefully we'll have a little of that wind still around to see where Mary ends up!  Stay tuned....
Our trip to Bend netted a few more books for the library, and a poke around a store that had used and consigned paddling gear.  I found  dry tops,  Emotion kayaks, something with a huge sail, and demo'd a  portage wheeler that doesn't collapse like the aluminum ones, but breaks down from interlocking pieces to store. Ok.  From now on I will make  notes with names of stuff in case you want to look further, or I want to go back! 

Sun Spots

Spring weather- cold in the shade, warm in the sun. Clouds come and go, and sometimes we hit it just right and snatch a couple of hours paddling on a local river. Like last Friday, when I went down the Williamson with Mary C., Charlotte B. and her grandson Alex, and Wendy. We put in at Collier rest area and paddled downstream on a river that was not too fast, and not too rocky, with plenty of opportunity to drift, relax, and enjoy the view.  It was the first time I went down and benefitted from Mary's leading the way. Alex, on the other hand found a few more rocks to stick on just beneath the surface of the water. It was also the first time I ran a smaller rapid, 1-2, and found it quite delightful. I was wondering  how going over would feel like and what the control would be like.  For this little rapid it was just fine!  Piece of cake!  I can't wait to go again!  We pulled out at Chiloquin near the bridge, after bringing up the possibility of continuing to the confluence of the Williamson and Sprague.  It was decided a no go as it seemed the water levels may have been borderline for more rocks than water.  I think next time, I would like to be on the scouting team for possible extensions like that.  After all, there is a lot more river to run. 
Be sure to view the photo album.  Mary has posted views from the campout destination for May.  Also, some links to PFD's if, like me, you're tired of standard PFD's hiking up to your chin when you sit in your kayak!

Checking out Shasta Lake

On a day in the middle of spring weather featuring snow showers, some sun, and more rain,  Mary and I set our sights for Shasta Lake and the North/South Gooseneck Cove boat-in campgrounds.  It turned out to be a perfect day.  Cooler in the morning  and sprayskirt appropriate for warmth, there was a light breeze in the morning and calm in the afternoon.  We took the Lakehead exit and went to  the lake road access where seasonal parking fees were not in effect yet, and parked on the bank.  It was easy to get in the water with enough rocks to avoid or use; the water level is good.  The campground is under two miles to kayak in to, with ROMTEC toilets, huge picnic tables and fire grates. The landing is local stone gravel on a mild slope, and the camping areas are small, but level. No water supply.   The lake shore is steep in most places but the water level is low enough in other places to invite landing and exploring. There are things to be aware of:  fast boats, rattlesnakes, and possibly poisen oak. We will have a  meeting soon to discuss meals and transportation.  Mary will send email with info.
Note the addition of two new features this week:  The photo album, which of course will expand, and "The Learning Curve" for a list of available books for us to borrow locally -in progress.  So, how do you like the site so far?  Comments are welcome!

The Learning Curve

Thanks, Mary, for the super post!  My vacation took us to the Oregon coast where among other things, I spotted two people taking off through the surf, in their sea kayaks.  Ahhh!!! It looked like fun in their head-to-toe wetsuits! The tide was low, that helped the wave situation, which following the storm on Thursday could've been worse.   One of the main things we planned was to do a 'book run' to Robert's Books in Lincoln City. (on hwy 101).  While Gary brought in his three totes, I made my way to the sports section where I found several  books on kayaking.  I plan on adding a list to the side of these books for a lending library for us locally.  There are currently 13 books ranging in topics such as basic paddling, sea kayaking, navigation, Puget Sound/San Juan/Gulf Islands trip books, and a couple on related topics.  One I'm sure could be of interest is "A River To Run", a more historical book about Glen Wooldridge who regularly ran the Rogue River to Gold Beach.  "The Laugh of the Water Nymph" features a cover photo of a kayaker plunging midway over a waterfall.  This book  has the appeal  of stories told by a person who loves the  adventure of hitting the rivers.   So, when your heels are drying off until your next paddling run, consider one of these books to put more ideas in your head! These books will be available soon.

San Juans, Sprague and Sails

      I usually handle the technical end of this blog, but Becky is on vacation this week so she asked me to write the post.      
      For the San Juan trip we now have 11 ladies who have paid their deposit and I can easily see having 12, the maximum per group allowed by Sea Quest Expeditions , by the time it is all said and done. This means we are assured of having our own private kayak tour, as there was a 10 person minimum for private tours, and it assures us of the discounted group price we have been figuring on. It also means we are going to have an outrageously fun time!!! Bring your Depends if you have bladder control problems because we are going to laugh our heads off.
      Becky also asked me to report on the paddle trip Charlotte, Wendy and I took last Saturday. It started off with me baptizing Charlotte in the icy cold Sprague River. Well, not exactly, but when I “seal” launched her off the bank she went bottom up in the river. Charlotte is an experienced paddler, but this is the second time she has gotten wet. Both times I guess I had a little something to do with it, but she forgives me. The first time was last October when we took a group of ladies to Lake of the Woods. She let a lady use stable little “Kermit” while she paddled our sit-on-top “Flipper”. True to his name, he flipped her off. This time I told Charlotte that if she was going to keep “goin’ under” we ought to make it count for something - like maybe we could capitalize on these immersions to rebaptize her. Anyway, back to the Sprague River, it was low (304 cfs). It was at half the flow of this same time last year when we went with Peg (592 cfs), which made for a lot of rock dodging and a slower and less fun ride. However, one thing about the rivers in our area – the Williamson, Wood and Sprague – they are great practice for learning to control your boat. Maneuvering through the tight turns on the Wood and around the shoal shelves and rocks in the Williamson and the Sprague lends confidence for successfully paddling Class II rivers like the Rogue.
      In the Training Topics section to the right, I have posted an article on the use of a whistle, its necessity and limitations, when used in kayaking. I have also added a "Fun Stuff" section.
     Last but not least, it’s time to buy a sail for my kayak. I have consulted Peg about this because she has sailed a kayak. She owns a tandem Klepper kayak (which is for sale BTW) which we sailed to Doe Island in Howard Prairie Lake a couple of years ago. I drove to my office late on Wednesday and when I saw the wind kicking up white caps on Lake Ewauna, I felt the adrenalin rush and decided my next purchase needs to be a sail. The question is, which one to buy as there are several on the market. I am favoring the Spirit Sail but the jury is still out. Here is a short You Tube video of a guy rippin’ along with a similar sail. Pacific Action Sails (They even used a white Prijon Seayak exactly like mine in the ad. Think that’s a sign?) With as much wind as we have and with the lake nearby, Peg and I decided that having sails mounted on the hard shell kayaks would be a heck of a lot of fun. These are downwind sails so basically you point your boat down wind and let the wind carry you – not a lot of technical sailing experience needed. The next best thing to paddling rapids is to paddle swells and troughs - compliments of the wind. -Mary

Vernal Equinox

Oooh-La-La!! The calendar says spring starts on Saturday!  A few bushes outside my house are hinting that it's so....temps are rising, but the water is still pretty cold out there.  Until earlier in the week, I felt like I had been keeping my head ducked for more winter, like there was going to be one more ball to drop.  Then, someone said, "Spring starts on Saturday" and my head went up! Spring! Take those noisy tires off! Dust off the kayak! Check that equipment  (one paddle-TWO blades) and I've started going past my street after work  to the marina at Moore Park to sit and look at the water, listen to the wind, the waves and the birds.  I look at the waves and think, " that's not so bad...I can paddle through  that..."  or, after spying a fishing boat motoring  towards Pelican Marina, and seeing the trailer parked in the lot, "what does he know that I don't?  If he can go out, why couldn't I? Maybe I could just bring my kayak down and put in the water, and paddle around the marina inlet here...." Anyone else turning the season?

Getting Ready

It seems that half the fun of getting ready for an event is in the prep work.  Whether its a birthday party, or a campout,  gathering in all the stuff can be like turning a kid loose in a candy store.  Whoa.  Enter the professor who KNOWS. Oh, no, check it out-the old Templar knight sitting in the cave with dozens of challis'   who says, "Choose wisely!"    Planning  is knowing what you need for the situation, or backing up a bit, asking what the situation IS.  Forgive me if I'm preaching to the choir- I offer these thoughts:  when thinking about what your event is, consider what you will need to be safe, comfortable and have fun.  Safe may be more information.  Do you understand the place and time (season) of where you will be? Comfort as in food, clothing, shelter; and fun-ACCESSORIES!  This is where it could get crazy....cameras, binoculors,  including  kayaks, paddles and gear, gear, gear.  My list is filling up of needful things based on knowledge, experience, and some expectation.   I will have a dry run,  to lay out and  pack the stuff  and throw a little dirt on the tent so it doesn't look so brand new.  Another good thing in getting ready is another set of eyes to look for holes or excesses. (Can you trade your giant pillow for a smaller version?)  The rest of the fun comes  in the middle of the party when you NEED that match to light the candles and  you HAVE IT!   or, on that chill morning when you crawl out of your warm sleeping bag--there's nothing more rewarding than making that hot cuppa to hold in your cold hands.  Plan well!

 The emails have been sent.  The mail with our reservations sent. Dates established. Costs calculated.  The San Juan trip is underway.  If you missed any of this, be sure to contact Mary for any needed information. 
Today, I don't have anything clever to say.  Rather,  reflective after talking to a friend who mentioned "her fears".  Everyone has them, I responded. Since then I've been thinking about what is said about fears...face them...tackle them with knowledge...whatever it is,  it's better when we can deal with them, rather than ignore them. It asks for courage,  gains confidence and brings peace to that place formerly occupied by anxiety.   I've been studying these words:  "Be anxious for nothing..." (Phillipians 4:6-7) and  facing  more of my fears hiding in the shadows.  Bit by bit, as I practice the rest of this verse,  those shadows will become places of peace.  One of my current favorite movie lines and scenes is from "Forbidden Kingdom" (with Jackie Chan). A young man is venting his anxiety to his teacher about whether or not he can accomplish his task.  The teacher responds: "Don't forget to breathe!"  Ah, what a good place to start!

Dreamin'

I've never had work dreams.  It's said that when your mind is working out issues, your dreams attempt to do the work for you while you sleep.   I had a dream about kayaking.  On water that was flowing fairly swiftly, I was with perhaps my youngest daughter.  Thing was-I had a CANOE paddle and I was paddling like mad on both sides and didn't quite realize at first why.  When I realized I only had a CANOE paddle, I got annoyed and decided to head back to shore to get the RIGHT paddle!  Why would I have such a dream?  I was looking at spare paddles to stow and found a collapsible CANOE paddle. Campact, yes. but only half the paddle power.  I think my brain was trying to tell me something.  I have grown to appreciate the kayak paddle after my first season on the water and my brain was telling me what I really LIKE! 
Ok.  Now someone can tell me if such a paddle might be OK in a pinch.  I'll keep my ears open to the learning curve and test it next time on calm water.  So, if you catch me on the lake madly paddling with a CANOE paddle in my kayak- you'll know I'm only trying it out and not necessarily fullfilling this dream!

Let's Get Started!

I'm going to work on getting at least one new post a week and make a habit of making this blog of ours a bonafide work horse of information.  I also will work on being brief- I love words:)  and concise.  So, two items come to mind today. One-Mary's email to let you know when the deposit and forms are due to reserve our San Juan trip: February 25 to her.  and two, for kicks, a comment about the Animal Planet episode I happened to watch the other night.  It was the "I Shouldn't Be Alive" series and featured a couple of kayaking guys in the San Juan straits.  Long story short, it was a good reminder  to be prepared for any kayaking trip, or venture by knowing what you're getting into. Gather information, equipment and clothing, and be physically ready.  One of the issues with these guys was  they were always challenging each other and missed being honest about the extent of experience....and that's how their story made the show.  It was a good thing that he could swim--and well!  So, starting today, I WILL get in at least a half hour walk, and plan on getting back in the pool SOON!