[Paddlewise] Imaginary Experience

The imaginary experience of some new paddlers is an important factor to take 
into consideration as the posts this week have shown. Sunday I am going out 
with a nice couple from my area who I know read PW.  We had a good laugh last 
night about our thoughts as we read the horror story of the "seasoned" 
paddler who turned out was only seasoned with visions of grandeur. I thought 
as I read the story <THUD> there goes my paddling trip (I was honest with 
them & no my fingers weren't crossed). They too were concerned.......with 
good reason. 

Before I made a commitment to rent a kayak to go with them though, out of 
fairness to us both I did some checking around. I went & spoke with the 
outfitter that I had taken 2 lessons from (keep in mind there are 3 sides to 
any story, the tellers, the receivers & reality). I inquired to see if she 
felt I had the experience to paddle with these kind people where they were 
going to paddle, and got recommendations for the best equipment to rent that 
was equal to my level of experience. Being over cautious I went one step 
further & inquired if the folks I was going with had the experience necessary 
to take a paddler of my (lack of) experience. New paddlers can be so anxious 
to get on the water that they can overlook some not so obvious safety 
factors. I am fortunate that the folks I am going with are known to the 
paddling community & I can rest assured if I make an error in judgement that 
I am with people that know what to do  in the event I need a rescue & that I 
am using equipment that is within my "realm" of reality. 

I don't want anyone to be offended, I just want to be fair to everyone I 
paddle with. I know my limitations, want to know about the people I paddle 
with & the utmost of importance, we all have an excellent paddling experience 
because safety was our number one consideration. Hopefully they won't have a 
post of another war story & we have a fabulous day on the water.

Top of the morning to everyone & hope it's a wonderful weekend for all.

Getting off the shore
Sandi

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