Today's paddle group line up for put-inLast weekend Gerard and myself were a small group of two. Today I had a still smaller group.
Gerard was going to meet me at St. Philips for a paddle to Brock's Pond falls. After waiting 30 minutes I decided as I was here anyway, I may as well carry on by myself.
It was -12C with a wind chill of -20C at put-in but it was sunny with a gentle breeze. There was a small chop created from a northerly swell and SW waves.
I don't advocate paddling alone but doing so is awfully liberating. Today, the cold added to the intrigue. The kayak yawed back and forth in the chop as I paddled towards Portugal Cove; I felt at ease with myself as I settled into a comfortable paddling rhythm. Gradually, the salt water started to freeze onto everything it touched, even the sleeves of my drysuit yet I did not feel cold myself. Everything was right with the world. I felt vindicated with my decision to go.
Watch out tony...you'll become hooked on solo paddling! Believe me it's by far my favorite type of tripping.
ReplyDeleteLee, I've noticed that from your blog! I have done a fair bit of solo paddling in the past, at first only on flat calm days. Going solo is a great feeling of self-sufficiency and you're on your own agenda. But a small group is good too.
ReplyDeleteTony :-)
so lovely that picture and I agree *alone* is awfully liberating!!! ciao
ReplyDeleteThanks Gio, I was a bit concerned at first when I saw all the frozen ice pans but I managed to get out of the harbour and into the open ocean.
ReplyDeleteTony :-)