Posted this last year, but thought there might be some new members who might enjoy it. Twas the day before Christmas when all around the bay Not a paddler was paddling, not even a sit-on-topper I should say. The kayaks were mounted on racks with care, In hopes that someone a paddle would soon dare. Most paddlers were nestled all snug in their beds, While visions of warm tropic waters danced in their heads. But Ken in his drytop and I in my wetsuit Had just launched, of some fun in pursuit. When outside the breakwater there arose a clatter. I paddled to the entrance to see what was the matter. Away to the opening I went like a sprinter Out through the channel where sailboats enter. The sun reflected on the mirror like surface Images of a world inverted like a masterpiece for purchase. When what to my wondering eyes did appear One kayak towed by eight others as if they were reindeer. The old paddler under tow was so lively and quick I knew in a moment it must be St. Nick. More rapid than dolphins his paddlers they came. And he whistled and shouted and called them by name. "Now, Derek! Now, Duane, Now Nigel F. and Nigel D, On. Greg, On Chris, on Leon and Shawna the lovely, Across the Gulf - across the bay Now quick stroke - quick stroke away" Across the surface so fast it seemed they flew Towing the kayak full of toys and St Nick too. And then in a twinkling they landed on shore Out jumped St Nick and stood as if on a stage floor. He was dressed all in Gore-Tex from his head to his feet And his PFD with safety gear was complete. With a hydration bladder hung on his back He looked ready the 5 STAR assessment to attack. He spoke not a word but went straight to his work. Leaving the toys for his helpers he then turned with a jerk. And laying his finger aside of his nose He entered the kayak without even wetting his toes. He picked up his paddle and to the others gave a signal And away they paddled with the speed of a guided missile. But I heard him exclaim ere they paddled out of sight " Happy Christmas to all, and to all please stay upright." * A word of explanation for the paddler's names Derek - Derek Hutchinson Nigel F - Nigel Foster Nigel D - Nigel Dennis All of above are famous expedition paddlers and kayak designers Greg - Greg Barton - Multi Olympic medal winner in kayaking (including double gold in 1988) Chris - Chris Duff - Famous expedition paddler and author Leon - Leon Somme - Noted kayak instructor and circumnavigator of Iceland by kayak Shawna - Shawna Franklin - Noted kayak instructor and circumnavigator of Iceland by kayak Duane - Duane Strosaker - Noted member of Paddlewise famous for his channel crossings and long distance days Merry Christmas and Happy Holiday Paddling Mark J. Arnold *************************************************************************** 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/ ***************************************************************************
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