[Paddlewise] Who We Are

Ok, ok, I'll add my name to the list...

I started kayaking in 1992 with an Eddyline Raven and still have it.  I
know there are better boats to be had but the Raven still has some years
left in it.  I live in Portland, Maine on the edge of Casco Bay.  For those
not familier with Maine, the coastline measures about two to three hundred
miles unless you measure all of the indents, bays, and cuts.  Then the
distance grows to over 2,000 miles long.  In Casco Bay alone there are over
300 islands.  A coastline like that, and the Maine Island Trail, make it
difficult not to start kayaking.  I started my outdoor life hiking and
backpacking.  In my 20s I spent 6 years in Virginia and started sailing a
catamaran in Chesapeake Bay.  The catamaran sits in my mother's barn with 2
flat tires on the trailer.  I haven't taken it out in about 15 years.  The
Raven, on the other hand, has been joined by a Sea Lion for my daughter and
a Solstice for my SO.

Unlike many on the list (as far as I can tell), I don't paddle for the joy
of paddling.  I paddle to be out amongst and on the ocean islands.  I
seldom take day trips.  Most of my paddles are 2 or more days so as to
enjoy the experience of staying on a remote island, listening to the sea,
and having a "dining room" with a tremendous view and spectacular atmosphere.

Similar to many on the list, I recently hit 50 (last year) but I like to
think that I'm redefining what a 50-year old is like.  None of this
business with sitting and watching TV each night and gradually slipping
into poor fitness and poor health.  My weeknights include 2 hours at the
gym with weights and aerobic equipment.  My weekends often include winter
climbing, snowshoeing, skiing, hiking, backpacking, or kayaking.  I often
wonder how my fellow list members fit in work, sleeping, kayaking, and as
much responding to posts as you all do.

I joined Wavelength several years ago shortly after it started and then
joined Paddlewise a few months after Jackie saw the need for a better
paddling forum.  It's been quite a ride.


			Bill Ridlon
			Southern Maine Sea Kayaking Network

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