NatM

http://www.8tb.org/GreatMarshWaterTrails/W...Boat%20Ramp.pdf This link is from the Kayakers Guide to the Great Marsh.

Wonderful. I also prefer weekday trips. I'll send you my email. Nathalie

Has anyone inqured yet about the Reading YMCA or the new Peabody/Lynnfield Y?

I hope to join you also Nathalie

Hi Kathy + Joan. Sounds good. See you there. Nathalie yellow/red Sole

I plan to be there, Walter, but what's this about bring a lunch? I've been told you always take care of that detail for everyone. Nathalie Sole yellow/red

We had a pleasant paddle from Conomo Point to the Essex Town Landing to watch the launching of the schooner Isabella, built by 11th generation boat builder, Harold Burnham. A little marsh meandering along the way got us to the landing right on schedule. A large crowd was gathered to watch as across the water a Champagne bottle was smashed on Isabella's bow, and the launching crew engaged in studied actions, removing supports, and pounding wedges. She leaned a bit to one side, but the suspense and speculation built as much time passed and she remained perched. Suddenly, Isabella tilted dramatically (gasps from the crowd), then slipped smoothly into the water righting herself (aaahhs from the crowd). After hanging out in Essex for a while we had a fast and easy paddle back to Conomo with wind and outgoing tide helping. Thanks to Kevin for posting the SNG and thanks to all participants for the good company. A Boston Globe article on the launch can be found at http://www.boston.com/news/local/massachus...nched_in_essex/ Nathalie

I plan to be there. The greenheads seem to be gone. Nathalie

I paddled along side a 2' surface swimming dogfish in Essex Bay. It felt a little weird when he swam directly under my boat, like I should maybe lift my butt off the seat. Here's a good site for dogfish info and pictures in case anyone is interested. http://www.flmnh.ufl.edu/fish/Gallery/Desc...inyDogfish.html Nathalie

I planned to paddle with a friend from Conomo Pt. yesterday. When we arrived the greenheads were swarming in such large numbers we didn't even dare to get out of the car. They were more numerous than I've ever seen before. My plan is to return in mid-August, but if any brave soul ventures out from there, good luck, and please report back. Nathalie

To Rick and his volunteers: Many thanks to you all for your generous sharing of knowledge, skills, time, and humor. I haven't been bitten by the cold weather paddling bug, so unfortunately I need to store the information until spring. Christopher, a special thanks for your help, and yes, I will get to those Chebacco skill sessions. Nathalie

Dan, thanks for the pictures. What camera you were using? Patty, thanks for posting the show and go. Pleasant day on the water and good company. Nathalie

Nice paddling with you Pat. Sorry that between us we don't have enough height to get your boat car-topped with less bumping. Time to upgrade to higher step stools. Apparently, you decided to keep our knuckle stroke under wraps :-). Great Bay next week? I'll check the tides. Nat