[Paddlewise] year end 2006, my dull life

Dec. 31: Temps around freezing.  I went for a paddle on the Columbia River.  
Just started at the downstream end of the first of the McNary Wildlife Refuge 
Islands (by Richland, WA) and went upstream.  I've done this before, but not 
in freezing temps.  Got to the upstream end of that island and realized that if 
I didn't do the next island now, I may never have a chance.  So, went the 
1.35 miles upstream to get around that one too.  Saw hundreds of water birds;  
TBBs- that's tiny black birds, on the water. A few pelicans.  Coots, Mallards, 
some Buffleheads.  Two could not fly away but could only swim.  I'm sorry I 
disturbed them. Passed a couple of hunters in boats and one in a blind, heard a 
couple of shots.  Saw what looked like one bald eagle (could have been an 
osprey, didn't get close enough to see the head well and it didn't vocalize).  Blue 
herons, a couple, and one black raptor type bird (large!) with a grey breast, 
that didn't fly.  7.40 nautical miles, 2 hours 40 minutes, and very cold 
fingers and toes. I'll work on that.  A good, calm day.
       This year I did my first 20 miler (with the tide all the way), had the 
first trip dedicated to kayaking, and missed the big symposium for good 
reasons.  I compensated by taking a class from George Groseth at Kayak Academy, 
well worth the time and expense as he helped me put lots of things together and 
gave some good advice on how to kayak more safely, since I usually kayak alone. 
 Worked on my roll, still not there.  Got much more comfortable on salt 
water, and am now checking the tide tables by habit. Got a good kayak and more 
needed equipment.  Found more friends, some from this forum. 
     Moving to the Tacoma area so hope to kayak more in groups this year of 
2007.  Will prioritize better this year, must be my resolution.  Lots of 
changes, many good things may happen.  I'll look for them.
      Best wishes to all on this forum, and may I give you the truckers good 
bye- "Keep the sunny side up!"
                         Pam  Washington State
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