David MC

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