David MC

Hi all. it's me, *&^$%* (David) ;-) Sorry for the late reply - I just noticed this post. Brian, I can't thank you enough for your excellent coaching. I think the key for me was talking through what happens at the very end of the roll and working backwards through the process. As Gillian said, everyone learns differently, but that worked for me. What a great group! Just an update, I did my first successful roll in the ocean on Sat! See you on the water.

Great day. Thanks all! I'm still grinning ear-to-ear having made my first roll in the ocean on my first try. Added bonuses -- seeing the skills of my fellow paddlers in action, a seal popping his head up to watch, increasing my confidence in ferrying, the fog, and learning to "read" the ocean better. I will work more on making rescues second nature and being more bold when I'm out practicing with skilled comrades. I'm definitely glad I've hooked up with NSPN -- fun group and conscientious. (BTW, I hope that lone sculler in nothing but a speedo made it home!)

It's on my calendar. Sounds great!

It was a great day on the water. Learned lots. A big THANK YOU to the organizers!

Interesting topic -- maybe just the fact that we're talking about it will produce desirable results for all, without reliving the past. As a "newer" paddler and member I've decided to "put myself out there" more this year. Assessing your own skills, conditions, required gear/dress, and then matching them to the actual trip can be challenging for beginning paddlers moving into intermediate. I err on the side of safety, so I'm not in my boat as much as I'd like to be. I also must say there HAVE been wonderful opportunities for 2 and 2+ trips initiated by NSPN L3 and L4 paddlers. Thank you! I went on a couple of these trips last year and the memories still bring a smile to my face. I'm a better paddler for the experience, AND we all had a great time too. It's great to put lakeside skill sessions to practical use. Likewise, there should be no shame in wanting to do an L3/L4 trip. Let's just initiate posts accurately, be frank and open in our communication, and paddle!

Fantastic! I'll be there. THANK YOU! What a great idea.

For those of us with plastic boats, is bracing against a bulkhead even an option? I was told the cement between bulkhead and boat would give away under pressure. I'd love to customize (Tempest 165), but I may need to wait for my next boat if it's going to break the thing.

Sounds great! I'm in. -Dave

It was a fantastic evening! A team of speakers gave round-robin presentations on a variety of topics. The barn was abuzz with questions, debate, demos, and information sharing. Great fun. Most importantly, I learned about the incredible work of the Maine Island Trail Association. By partnering with island owners they help promote awareness and stewardship while allowing access to a 350-mile chain of over 150 coastal islands. Very impressive! I'm joining! Membership even includes a 250 page detailed guide book and discounts at local merchants. http://www.mita.org/ Kudos to the presenters last night. I'm totally psyched!!

NOAA is now more optimistic, with Accuweather still showing low possibility of thunderstorms at 6pm. Those are odds I can live with (besides the car is loaded). Maybe I'll see some of you there... http://www.nspn.org/forum/index.php?act=ca...mp;event_id=641

Weather hasn't been kind to us. It looks questionable again this afternoon. I went last week, but my paddling friends were smart and stayed home. Once there, I didn't risk it either. Anyone trying tonight? -David