> -They have got me to thinking... Kevin, I don't quite fit either end of the scale, but here's my nickel (inflation....). I began Kayaking in January of 2000. I started with a boat, paddle and PFD - nothing else, not even a spray skirt. I'd only go in calm, flat water, and never strayed more than about 40-50 feet from shore. Now that my third year is underway, I have the boat, paddle, PFD, skirt, pump, paddle float, VHF, flares, mini survival kit, first aid kit, ya-da-dah-da-dah. I paddle year round (lowest air temp has been low thirties, water temp.... well, I had to detour due to ice). Highest winds have been sustained at 20-25 mph (I know, I should use knots) with gusts up to 35 (that was too much for me and my particular boat - I had a really hard time getting to the take-out). When I began in 2000, I bought BASIC SEA KAYAKING by Derek H. and subscribed to Canoe & Kayak. Those got me thinking a bit. Then, a few months later, I found P'WISE which was a real boon to my knowledge and awareness, and shortly afterward (due to P'Wise recommendations) read Matt's DEEP S___ (otherwise known as Deep Trouble). Incidentally, Matt, did I ever say "Thanks" for putting that book together?!?!? Okay, now my eyes were popped wide open and I started a serious effort to gain skills, get the right equipment, and so forth. I've still got a few things to aquire, and will for ever be building my skills, but those have come a long way inthe past couple years). FWIW, that's my story and I'm sticking to it. BTW - my in-laws and family think I'm totally nuts. First, for carrying all the gear when I go out into the Bay, and second, for going out at times when the water isn't silky smooth like a mirror. Go figure...... Rick - Poquoson, VA *************************************************************************** PaddleWise Paddling Mailing List - Any opinions or suggestions expressed here are solely those of the writer(s). You must assume the entire responsibility for reliance upon them. All postings copyright the author. Submissions: PaddleWise_at_PaddleWise.net Subscriptions: PaddleWise-request_at_PaddleWise.net Website: http://www.paddlewise.net/ ***************************************************************************Received on Thu Jan 24 2002 - 11:31:58 PST
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