I was living on the Maine coast without a boat, at all, no boat. How silly is that?! Then I moved a little further inland and began dating a guy who knew I wanted to kayak so he bought 2 rec boats w assorted gear. Then I moved back to MA and found myself on Plum Island after "Guide Training" w ERBA Then came the Paddlesport show where I met Theresa Willett and was introduced to Valley boats and she pushed me to Suz Hutchinson who introduced me to Kokotat (I think she may rue the day...) & I did not buy a Tsunami, instead I bought a plastic Avocet and I drove it directly from the shop to Lake Chebaco and was exposed to the usefulness of a Crangle. I've been with all y'all ever since. PS: my favorite tools are a Hutchinson & a Wait for it... An Allen wench Thanks for the tip, Phil, I meant no disrespect...