Re: [Paddlewise] Paddling in Space

On Thursday, July 25, 2002, at 9:09:25 AM PST, Ron Dunnington wrote:

> ...but it's raining here in MN today and I can't go paddling.

Hello Ron,

I've been reading these "paddle" threads with interest, especially
since I've recently switched from using a "Euro" paddle to a W.
Greenland style paddle. I have many developing thoughts on the
different "efficiencies" of the different styles of
paddles/techniques, but for the moment, I'll just comment on what you
said about rain, quoted above.

Why not paddle in the rain? When I go paddling (nearly every day, year
'round), I almost always practice a few rolls and/or I'm in the surf
or crashing wind waves, so I'm often a bit wet anyway. A little fresh
water from above doesn't bother me at all. In fact, because most
people seem to equate rain with "bad" weather (I generally don't use
the term "bad" when considering weather, as each kind of weather is
lovely in its own way), you're more likely to have your favorite
paddling spots all to yourself if you don't mind a little rain. With
my dry top or dry suit, and the rain hat I sometimes wear, even if
it's pouring rain, only my face and hands feel any water anyway.

I like to paddle in just about any weather (hail, while exciting, can
be a bit painful if one is not wearing a helmet...and horizontal hail
will get your face anyway!), and rain, mist, fog, wind, etc. each
invoke their own flavor of paddling bliss. If you can handle varying
conditions, I encourage you to go out and enjoy paddling regardless of
a little weather! Same thing goes for swimming in the rain...you're as
wet as you'll ever get by just swimming, so what's the problem with
swimming in the rain? (there must be a song and dance in there
somewhere!).

I also hope that you take advantage of paddling in snowy conditions.
There's nothing quite so lovely as paddling around in that special
quiet and beauty that only snow can provide. Just dress for the
conditions and enjoy! :-)

Melissa
-- 
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mailto:pgp_keys_at_gmx.co.uk?subject=0x46C29887&Body=Please%20send%20keys

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