Here is a video of time spent sitting on the floating dock at Lower Rideau Lake.
It is a beautiful evening. Taking some time to relax, meditate and enjoy after a very busy day.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=NcguvL9QTng
I will be able to get into the kayak again in another week.
Friday, August 29, 2014
Tuesday, July 1, 2014
Frontenac Outfitters Level 1 Kayak Skills Course
What an excellent weekend! The Level 1 course at Frontenac Outfitters was held on Pearkes Lake. The weather was perfect.
It is an intensive course. A good part of the Saturday morning was in our beautiful outdoor classroom under the shade of large trees. There we learned about navigation. Specifically UTM and LAT & LON. We also learned how to use the Garmin GPS units. ( waterproof but not buoyant, so attach to decklines).
After that it was onto the water and practice.
We geocached some rubber duckies. Fun, fun, fun.
A good part of Saturday was spent edging, low brace, high brace, rescue assists, paddle float self-rescues and more.
Sunday started with an analysis of two recent sea kayak critical incidents ... one off the east end of Prince Edward County and the other off the coast of Maine, USA.
In both cases the kayakers ended up in harms way because they ignored basic safety principals.
The rest of Sunday was spent on the water. About 6 hours in total.
We practiced high brace turns, low brace turns, towing, assist T-Rescues, and one arm only paddle float self rescue.
There was much more besides but I would have to go over my notes to recollect it all.
There were four participants in the course. On Saturday it was 2 instructors for 4 students. Sunday was even better with 4 instructors for 4 students. This was my fourth course at Frontenac Outfitters . As demonstrated by the instructor/student ratio, Christine and Larry know how to build value into the courses.
It is an intensive course. A good part of the Saturday morning was in our beautiful outdoor classroom under the shade of large trees. There we learned about navigation. Specifically UTM and LAT & LON. We also learned how to use the Garmin GPS units. ( waterproof but not buoyant, so attach to decklines).
After that it was onto the water and practice.
We geocached some rubber duckies. Fun, fun, fun.
A good part of Saturday was spent edging, low brace, high brace, rescue assists, paddle float self-rescues and more.
Sunday started with an analysis of two recent sea kayak critical incidents ... one off the east end of Prince Edward County and the other off the coast of Maine, USA.
In both cases the kayakers ended up in harms way because they ignored basic safety principals.
The rest of Sunday was spent on the water. About 6 hours in total.
We practiced high brace turns, low brace turns, towing, assist T-Rescues, and one arm only paddle float self rescue.
There was much more besides but I would have to go over my notes to recollect it all.
There were four participants in the course. On Saturday it was 2 instructors for 4 students. Sunday was even better with 4 instructors for 4 students. This was my fourth course at Frontenac Outfitters . As demonstrated by the instructor/student ratio, Christine and Larry know how to build value into the courses.
Saturday, May 24, 2014
Kayak Dream Made Good
Here are a series of clips from my most recent Kayak Dream come true on May 20, 2014 on the Lower and Big Rideau Lakes:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=hPML3f6Qw9Q
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4LbumcND6pg
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=gliRfW_xXP0
In the first video there is an incorrect statement where I state that 'port' is to the 'right'. That is not true, 'port' is to the left ... 'starboard' is to the 'right'.
And I will also suggest that you subscribe to my YouTube channel to observe how improvement is possible. I would also like to suggest that you 'like' this video in an attempt to boost my 'video wannabe' alter ego.
If you do that then I will not have to beg, bow, or scrape for your attention in the future!
Consider it a favour that you perform for humankind!
And if you don't I could really care less anyway ... I will still continue to practice my unique blend of videography.
So there!
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=hPML3f6Qw9Q
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4LbumcND6pg
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=gliRfW_xXP0
In the first video there is an incorrect statement where I state that 'port' is to the 'right'. That is not true, 'port' is to the left ... 'starboard' is to the 'right'.
And I will also suggest that you subscribe to my YouTube channel to observe how improvement is possible. I would also like to suggest that you 'like' this video in an attempt to boost my 'video wannabe' alter ego.
If you do that then I will not have to beg, bow, or scrape for your attention in the future!
Consider it a favour that you perform for humankind!
And if you don't I could really care less anyway ... I will still continue to practice my unique blend of videography.
So there!
Wednesday, April 30, 2014
The First Splash
I finally was able to get onto the water this past Monday, April 28, 2014.
I only spent maybe an hour in the kayak but it was time well spent, as always.
The Delta 17s was purchased last November. I was able to try it out twice then.
Monday's original plan was set aside once I got on the water.
There were two reasons I changed plans. Firstly, I had neglected to drop the skeg. This resulted in two capsizes that required a paddle float self rescue each time.
Secondly, in securing the top zipper of the dry suit, I failed to ensure the zipper had closed completely. Even though the gap between the zipper head and the block was very small, it permitted a small amount of water to seep in. Any leaks or seepage or leaks are a concern. I chose to land the boat and determine the reason for the leak.
So for the rest of my four hour visit to the lake, I 303'd the interior of the rear bulkhead as far as I could reach. While doing that, I discovered that the rear bulkhead had leaked because of a missing interior bulkhead cover, which I located while 303'ing it.
So the plan for my next kayak adventure is to use the skeg, ensure the drysuit zipper is properly secured and, capsize the kayak with the interior cover in place to ensure that the rear bulkhead does not leak when properly equipped.
Of course once I get to the put in I may elect to modify the timing of the plan ... I may do all of the above after returning from my paddle trip.
I only spent maybe an hour in the kayak but it was time well spent, as always.
The Delta 17s was purchased last November. I was able to try it out twice then.
Monday's original plan was set aside once I got on the water.
There were two reasons I changed plans. Firstly, I had neglected to drop the skeg. This resulted in two capsizes that required a paddle float self rescue each time.
Secondly, in securing the top zipper of the dry suit, I failed to ensure the zipper had closed completely. Even though the gap between the zipper head and the block was very small, it permitted a small amount of water to seep in. Any leaks or seepage or leaks are a concern. I chose to land the boat and determine the reason for the leak.
So for the rest of my four hour visit to the lake, I 303'd the interior of the rear bulkhead as far as I could reach. While doing that, I discovered that the rear bulkhead had leaked because of a missing interior bulkhead cover, which I located while 303'ing it.
So the plan for my next kayak adventure is to use the skeg, ensure the drysuit zipper is properly secured and, capsize the kayak with the interior cover in place to ensure that the rear bulkhead does not leak when properly equipped.
Of course once I get to the put in I may elect to modify the timing of the plan ... I may do all of the above after returning from my paddle trip.
Saturday, April 26, 2014
The Iceman Gone!
So the ice is gone. I should be able to get onto the lake on Monday. It looks beautiful. A little choppy, but no whitecaps. Sail on Kayak Dreamer!
Monday, April 7, 2014
A Story About Walking & Paddling
It is a warm 13C/55.4F degrees in eastern Ontario this afternoon. Clear and sunny with the wind 16km/9mph out of the SE.
My walk was 5.6km/3.5mi. It took me just over one hour. It was 5,705 steps and I burned 417 calories. Very invigorating and head clearing.
I also drove down to Lower Rideau Lake to see that it is still covered in ice. The Tay River is open, but I did not have anybody to file a float plan with so I'm here at home instead.
Patience my friend, patience. There is still snow on the ground and although it is melting. The lake will not be clear for paddling until after all the snow on the ground is gone.
However we are supposed to receive a substantial mount of rain in the next couple of days so that should help turn the ice to liquid.
It has been 30 days since I posted the hope that 30 days hence the ice would have melted! It seems to be par for this very long, severe winter. At least the Great Lakes froze over more this year than in the last 20 years, so that will raise the water levels. Superior already has displayed higher levels in 2013. Huron, Michigan, Erie and Ontario should have significantly higher levels this year as a result of the freeze over.
Last year I successfully completed the Paddle Canada Basic Skills Kayak Course, click on: now.
Eighty days from now will be the Paddle Canada Sea Kayak Level 1 Skills Course. Here is a link to the Paddle Canada course outline.
This year I will conduct my kayak trips using the correct procedures.
I will file a float plan.
I will carry a first aid kit.
I will carry an emergency kit comprised of flares, etc.
I will plot my course on charts using the compass to establish bearings and back bearings.
I will carry enough food and water and gear for an unexpected night put-in.
Some of these things I learned last year in the FW course and some I have been learning from books and video in anticipation of this years course.
I remember very much the two lessons from last years trips, namely:
1) Spending an unplanned night in a raging thunderstorm on the isthmus between South Otter Lake and Doe Lake.
2) Paddling to Port Elmsley and ending up in Poonamalie by mistake.
It is not a question of will 'something' happen, it is an understanding that 'something' will happen! And I need to be ready.
So I will not be making the trip to northern Georgian Bay this summer. I do not have the required experience yet. I would have been making the trip with another kayaker with more experience than myself. But that is not the intention.
Next year after completing the Sea Kayak Level 2 Skills Course, here, I will be ready for that trip.
The reading/learning that I have been doing these past number of months are clear. Sound judgement requires one to operate at the current skill level ... not gamble our lives or safety, or that of others, by taking chances.
So instead I am planning a trip after the Level 1 course. It will be from Rideau Ferry to Kingston and back. That will be a trip that I am confident about the conditions.
So this is the end of this episode of the story, the journey, the dream.
My walk was 5.6km/3.5mi. It took me just over one hour. It was 5,705 steps and I burned 417 calories. Very invigorating and head clearing.
I also drove down to Lower Rideau Lake to see that it is still covered in ice. The Tay River is open, but I did not have anybody to file a float plan with so I'm here at home instead.
Patience my friend, patience. There is still snow on the ground and although it is melting. The lake will not be clear for paddling until after all the snow on the ground is gone.
However we are supposed to receive a substantial mount of rain in the next couple of days so that should help turn the ice to liquid.
It has been 30 days since I posted the hope that 30 days hence the ice would have melted! It seems to be par for this very long, severe winter. At least the Great Lakes froze over more this year than in the last 20 years, so that will raise the water levels. Superior already has displayed higher levels in 2013. Huron, Michigan, Erie and Ontario should have significantly higher levels this year as a result of the freeze over.
Last year I successfully completed the Paddle Canada Basic Skills Kayak Course, click on: now.
Eighty days from now will be the Paddle Canada Sea Kayak Level 1 Skills Course. Here is a link to the Paddle Canada course outline.
This year I will conduct my kayak trips using the correct procedures.
I will file a float plan.
I will carry a first aid kit.
I will carry an emergency kit comprised of flares, etc.
I will plot my course on charts using the compass to establish bearings and back bearings.
I will carry enough food and water and gear for an unexpected night put-in.
Some of these things I learned last year in the FW course and some I have been learning from books and video in anticipation of this years course.
I remember very much the two lessons from last years trips, namely:
1) Spending an unplanned night in a raging thunderstorm on the isthmus between South Otter Lake and Doe Lake.
2) Paddling to Port Elmsley and ending up in Poonamalie by mistake.
It is not a question of will 'something' happen, it is an understanding that 'something' will happen! And I need to be ready.
So I will not be making the trip to northern Georgian Bay this summer. I do not have the required experience yet. I would have been making the trip with another kayaker with more experience than myself. But that is not the intention.
Next year after completing the Sea Kayak Level 2 Skills Course, here, I will be ready for that trip.
The reading/learning that I have been doing these past number of months are clear. Sound judgement requires one to operate at the current skill level ... not gamble our lives or safety, or that of others, by taking chances.
So instead I am planning a trip after the Level 1 course. It will be from Rideau Ferry to Kingston and back. That will be a trip that I am confident about the conditions.
So this is the end of this episode of the story, the journey, the dream.
Friday, March 7, 2014
Into The Single Digits
It is a beautiful sunny morning here in this part of eastern Ontario. The temp is finally into the single digits again at -7 degrees Celsius/19.4 Fahrenheit, yay!
It is forecast to reach a high of +1 or 2C for the next couple of days.
There may be a few nights of minus's in the double digits, but within the week, both day and night temps will be in the single digits!
So I am encouraged. Maybe the lakes will become liquid within the next 30 days or so.
First of let me link you to Alaskagraphy. Bixler and Krystin are Alaska sailboat sailors who enjoy going on hiking, fishing and hunting trips on their sailboat. They also have made a couple of good quality movies of some adventure trips in Alaska.
If you are sensitive to fishing and hunting, this may not be for you. The fish they catch and the bears they shoot end up on the dinner plate.
This is the first one, about an hour long; Boats, Beaches & Bears 5 Months Sailing In The Last Frontier.
It is excellent viewing and learning fare.
I am still practicing the compass and chart navigation. To assist me in that effort, I recently purchased a book titled Sea Kayak Navigation Simplified by Lee Moyer for around $18.00. It is very clear and simple.
Time to start checking out the camping and kayak gear. I'll be ready!
More than likely my first trip will be down the Tay River to Beveridges Lock and into the Rideau System at Beveridges Bay. It is convenient at least. The Tay River is less than a block away from my front door. I can put in there conveniently without having to use the car even. Maybe a one nighter or two.
Dream, live the dream.
It is forecast to reach a high of +1 or 2C for the next couple of days.
There may be a few nights of minus's in the double digits, but within the week, both day and night temps will be in the single digits!
So I am encouraged. Maybe the lakes will become liquid within the next 30 days or so.
First of let me link you to Alaskagraphy. Bixler and Krystin are Alaska sailboat sailors who enjoy going on hiking, fishing and hunting trips on their sailboat. They also have made a couple of good quality movies of some adventure trips in Alaska.
If you are sensitive to fishing and hunting, this may not be for you. The fish they catch and the bears they shoot end up on the dinner plate.
This is the first one, about an hour long; Boats, Beaches & Bears 5 Months Sailing In The Last Frontier.
It is excellent viewing and learning fare.
I am still practicing the compass and chart navigation. To assist me in that effort, I recently purchased a book titled Sea Kayak Navigation Simplified by Lee Moyer for around $18.00. It is very clear and simple.
Time to start checking out the camping and kayak gear. I'll be ready!
More than likely my first trip will be down the Tay River to Beveridges Lock and into the Rideau System at Beveridges Bay. It is convenient at least. The Tay River is less than a block away from my front door. I can put in there conveniently without having to use the car even. Maybe a one nighter or two.
Dream, live the dream.
Wednesday, March 5, 2014
The Lakes Are ...
... Well, they are still frozen! Patience, Jebb ... patience!
It is going to be an excellent season! I'm going to fish from the kayak this year.
This year my formal kayak education will consist of the Paddle Canada Level 1 Skills weekend. Then of course there are the kayak/camp trips too. More kayaking during cottage week too.
So I have been checking out some water adventure & outdoor vid's at You Tube to keep the dream stoked.
Here is a link to a really good sailing site by Bixler & Krystin:
http://alaskagraphy.wordpress.com/
They also have some very good video's at You Tube of their adventures sailing, fishing, hiking and hunting up in Alaska.
My "Mike Poliszuk" You Tube site has a number of subscriptions to boating, camping and outdoor fun video's.
I was down at Lower Rideau Lake again yesterday. The ice fisher's are enjoying the long fishing season this year. Some of the huts have started coming off of the lake.
So still dreaming about kayaking, camping, fishing and water and stuff.
Ciao for now,
Mike.
It is going to be an excellent season! I'm going to fish from the kayak this year.
This year my formal kayak education will consist of the Paddle Canada Level 1 Skills weekend. Then of course there are the kayak/camp trips too. More kayaking during cottage week too.
So I have been checking out some water adventure & outdoor vid's at You Tube to keep the dream stoked.
Here is a link to a really good sailing site by Bixler & Krystin:
http://alaskagraphy.wordpress.com/
They also have some very good video's at You Tube of their adventures sailing, fishing, hiking and hunting up in Alaska.
My "Mike Poliszuk" You Tube site has a number of subscriptions to boating, camping and outdoor fun video's.
I was down at Lower Rideau Lake again yesterday. The ice fisher's are enjoying the long fishing season this year. Some of the huts have started coming off of the lake.
So still dreaming about kayaking, camping, fishing and water and stuff.
Ciao for now,
Mike.
Saturday, January 11, 2014
Welcome Aboard!
It is so energizing to watch a dream become reality.
One of my goals since last July has been to find or develop a paddling partner or group. It has been a concern to me, that except for the courses I took, I haven't paddled with anybody who has more experience than myself.
So I updated my Goodreads account the other day to indicate that I had read: A Paddler's Guide To Killarney and the French River by Kevin Callen. That prompted a good acquaintance of mine to make me aware that he also had three of Callen's books.
Now I knew that Dave did have a sailboat at one time. Dave has a proven track record as an adventurer. It turns out he also has a couple of kayaks, as well camping gear.
What makes him unique is that he has extensive outdoor/survival experience. Previously he has had careers with the police department and with armed forces in an international hotspot.
So him and I are planning a kayak/camping trip to Northern Georgian Bay for 9 nights in early July.
And when stuff starts happening on Georgian Bay, I couldn't ask for a better survivor, a better soldier to be with.
He can be counted on!
Philip Edward Island is crown land. It costs nothing to camp there. It is also an immediate safe haven because when the water on Georgian Bay turns wild, it offers a nearby water exit.
I can hardly wait. The weekend before our trip I will complete the PC Level 1 Kayak Skills course. To follow that up with an 11 day trip really will be fun, a wonderful experience!
Even better, now I won't have to do it alone. That length of time on Georgian Bay will be a challenge of sorts. It certainly is an "envelope pusher" for me.
Later in the year I will do a three night solo trip to be followed by two other overnight trips of one or two nights each. Perhaps Dave and I can partner up if our schedules allow.
The experience this year will be invaluable for next year's trip to Lake Superior!
One of my goals since last July has been to find or develop a paddling partner or group. It has been a concern to me, that except for the courses I took, I haven't paddled with anybody who has more experience than myself.
So I updated my Goodreads account the other day to indicate that I had read: A Paddler's Guide To Killarney and the French River by Kevin Callen. That prompted a good acquaintance of mine to make me aware that he also had three of Callen's books.
Now I knew that Dave did have a sailboat at one time. Dave has a proven track record as an adventurer. It turns out he also has a couple of kayaks, as well camping gear.
What makes him unique is that he has extensive outdoor/survival experience. Previously he has had careers with the police department and with armed forces in an international hotspot.
So him and I are planning a kayak/camping trip to Northern Georgian Bay for 9 nights in early July.
And when stuff starts happening on Georgian Bay, I couldn't ask for a better survivor, a better soldier to be with.
He can be counted on!
Philip Edward Island is crown land. It costs nothing to camp there. It is also an immediate safe haven because when the water on Georgian Bay turns wild, it offers a nearby water exit.
I can hardly wait. The weekend before our trip I will complete the PC Level 1 Kayak Skills course. To follow that up with an 11 day trip really will be fun, a wonderful experience!
Even better, now I won't have to do it alone. That length of time on Georgian Bay will be a challenge of sorts. It certainly is an "envelope pusher" for me.
Later in the year I will do a three night solo trip to be followed by two other overnight trips of one or two nights each. Perhaps Dave and I can partner up if our schedules allow.
The experience this year will be invaluable for next year's trip to Lake Superior!
Thursday, December 19, 2013
Brittany Kayaking
This is really cool! It shows capsizes, rescues, a failed roll or two ... I can relate to that!
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=MGvoLrADm_s
Enjoy!
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=MGvoLrADm_s
Enjoy!
Thursday, December 12, 2013
Frozen Out
Winter is here. For the next six days it will be minus double digits Celsius.
The lakes were frozen days ago and this cold spell will freeze the rivers as well.
Still it was a good first kayak season for me.
I was able to average 10 times on the water per month. My last time on the lake was November 17. Life has been good and busy as usual.
I achieved my goal ... I successfully rolled the kayak ... twice!
My research enabled me to find a practice routine that works. The routine is the paddle float technique. It requires attaching the paddle float to the paddle and practicing the "hip flip". Paying special attention to not raise the head while executing the move.
So now I will concentrate on a camping trip or two over the winter. If I can do two trips I will be happy. Of course, Frontenac Provincial Park is must. Maybe Mew Lake at Algonquin Park. Mew Lake is car camping or yurt camping. Frontenac is hiking in ... no car camping unless you walk at least a mile and a half back to the car.
My winter camping at Kingsford Lake taught me well: after dark, stay put.
Of course if there is a group of you, that makes a difference. The problem is finding people with the desire, experience and equipment to camp in sub zero weather. I think I will try out the winter sleeping bag in the car first, this week. In the parking lot.
It is going to be minus 18 or thereabouts for the next week or so. A good time to check it out.
The thing about Frontenac is that both times I camped there in the winter, the park belonged to me and the coyotes and the Canada Goose. I was the only human in the 14,000 acre piece of heaven.
To be precise, at the time I had a wonderful girlfriend so I wasn't entirely alone.
The similarity between camping by yourself and kayaking is this: Risk Management & Planning.
My three night kayak camping trip to Doe Lake this past summer was the first time I had ever camped alone. It was the first time I had kayaked alone as well, because it was only the second time in my life I had kayaked. On the way home from Doe Lake I had a three hour kayaking adventure on Devils Lake.
Solo kayaking, from a safety standpoint is not ideal but it takes time to find and establish a kayak community. It takes time to get involved.
I accomplished some important skills in four months. Especially the rescues. That was the bulk of my time on the water. Even though it was solo, it was very productive as far as self rescue is concerned.
I gained experience. The most valuable lesson I learned on my kayak camping trip is this: things will go wrong. Events will occur that will demand good judgement. There will be significant challenges.
I loved every second of it.
So kayaking is on hold until the thaw. Hopefully I will establish some contacts.
The lakes were frozen days ago and this cold spell will freeze the rivers as well.
Still it was a good first kayak season for me.
I was able to average 10 times on the water per month. My last time on the lake was November 17. Life has been good and busy as usual.
I achieved my goal ... I successfully rolled the kayak ... twice!
My research enabled me to find a practice routine that works. The routine is the paddle float technique. It requires attaching the paddle float to the paddle and practicing the "hip flip". Paying special attention to not raise the head while executing the move.
So now I will concentrate on a camping trip or two over the winter. If I can do two trips I will be happy. Of course, Frontenac Provincial Park is must. Maybe Mew Lake at Algonquin Park. Mew Lake is car camping or yurt camping. Frontenac is hiking in ... no car camping unless you walk at least a mile and a half back to the car.
My winter camping at Kingsford Lake taught me well: after dark, stay put.
Of course if there is a group of you, that makes a difference. The problem is finding people with the desire, experience and equipment to camp in sub zero weather. I think I will try out the winter sleeping bag in the car first, this week. In the parking lot.
It is going to be minus 18 or thereabouts for the next week or so. A good time to check it out.
The thing about Frontenac is that both times I camped there in the winter, the park belonged to me and the coyotes and the Canada Goose. I was the only human in the 14,000 acre piece of heaven.
To be precise, at the time I had a wonderful girlfriend so I wasn't entirely alone.
My three night kayak camping trip to Doe Lake this past summer was the first time I had ever camped alone. It was the first time I had kayaked alone as well, because it was only the second time in my life I had kayaked. On the way home from Doe Lake I had a three hour kayaking adventure on Devils Lake.
Solo kayaking, from a safety standpoint is not ideal but it takes time to find and establish a kayak community. It takes time to get involved.
I accomplished some important skills in four months. Especially the rescues. That was the bulk of my time on the water. Even though it was solo, it was very productive as far as self rescue is concerned.
I gained experience. The most valuable lesson I learned on my kayak camping trip is this: things will go wrong. Events will occur that will demand good judgement. There will be significant challenges.
I loved every second of it.
So kayaking is on hold until the thaw. Hopefully I will establish some contacts.
Saturday, November 30, 2013
Ice On The Water
The cold weather has arrived!
Last night's low was -22, and the night before -26. Celsius that is.
So yes. At those low temperature's the lake freezes.
I am hoping for a warm spell soon. If these temperatures continue the ice will be too thick for a warm spell to thaw.
Lake Ontario is still open. It is one matter to solo on the Rideau Lakes. It is an entirely different proposition to solo on the big water of Lake Ontario.
Sea Kayaking by John Dowd is still going to take a little longer to arrive.
No news on the men missing in the Bay of Quinte.
Off to London at the end of the week for a holiday visit with my babies.
Last night's low was -22, and the night before -26. Celsius that is.
So yes. At those low temperature's the lake freezes.
I am hoping for a warm spell soon. If these temperatures continue the ice will be too thick for a warm spell to thaw.
Lake Ontario is still open. It is one matter to solo on the Rideau Lakes. It is an entirely different proposition to solo on the big water of Lake Ontario.
Sea Kayaking by John Dowd is still going to take a little longer to arrive.
No news on the men missing in the Bay of Quinte.
Off to London at the end of the week for a holiday visit with my babies.
Monday, November 25, 2013
Marine Museum of the Great Lakes
This past Friday, November 22nd I paid a visit to the Marine Museum of the Great Lakes.
click here
You probably already know if you would like it here. I knew I would like it too ... but I enjoyed it very much once I got there and saw some of the exhibits!
I didn't visit for as long as I should have, but this was a reconnaissance trip to check it out.
It is very much on the list of things to do for next season. After this week visits are by appointment only.
It is very cold these past few days. It will mild up for a day or two, but then it will cool off a bit.
Still I am feeling rather adventurous and I would like to get my 40th water event under my hull! Lol!
Off for walk.
Enjoy the day!
click here
You probably already know if you would like it here. I knew I would like it too ... but I enjoyed it very much once I got there and saw some of the exhibits!
I didn't visit for as long as I should have, but this was a reconnaissance trip to check it out.
It is very much on the list of things to do for next season. After this week visits are by appointment only.
It is very cold these past few days. It will mild up for a day or two, but then it will cool off a bit.
Still I am feeling rather adventurous and I would like to get my 40th water event under my hull! Lol!
Off for walk.
Enjoy the day!
Thursday, November 21, 2013
This Is Not The Pond I Paddle In!
This is a little different from what I do ...
Actually it's a lot different from what I do!!!
click Here
Wow!
Actually it's a lot different from what I do!!!
click Here
Wow!
Kayak Dreams-Kayak Thoughts
The sky is clear and the sun is slowly rising.
It is -5C, feels like -9C here in Perth in eastern Ontario.
The flags are moving very little if at all.
I think I'll go for a paddle. I am well rested. I will eat appropriately.
I will think of my paddle plan.
The Bay of Quinte is beautiful. Belleville, Ontario is an incredibly beautiful place because of it.
I would love to paddle the Bay of Quinte and Lake Ontario in this area ... Prince Edward County.
Two men went out onto the Bay the day before last and failed to return as planned before 2200 that night.
SAR at nearby 8 Wing, CFB Trenton searched through out the night after being notified by the float plan contact.
The search is now being conducted by the OPP (Ontario Provincial Police) detachment in that area.
The men went out in an aluminum boat. I have been listening to the CBC Ottawa this morning but no mention of this situation.
As a sole paddler risk management is always a concern.
As a sole paddler I abide by survival principles and ... there are some I don't abide by.
For the principles I adhere to I commend myself.
For the one's I don't adhere to I excuse my behaviour, to my detriment, no doubt.
So this news story about these two has struck a nerve. The angel on my right shoulder is quietly being heard loud and clear over the din from the devil on my other shoulder.
There is a very important lesson in this story for me and I need to hear it.
I need to listen. And to think. And do the right thing.
I so badly want these guys to be okay.
It could happen to me.
It is -5C, feels like -9C here in Perth in eastern Ontario.
The flags are moving very little if at all.
I think I'll go for a paddle. I am well rested. I will eat appropriately.
I will think of my paddle plan.
The Bay of Quinte is beautiful. Belleville, Ontario is an incredibly beautiful place because of it.
I would love to paddle the Bay of Quinte and Lake Ontario in this area ... Prince Edward County.
Two men went out onto the Bay the day before last and failed to return as planned before 2200 that night.
SAR at nearby 8 Wing, CFB Trenton searched through out the night after being notified by the float plan contact.
The search is now being conducted by the OPP (Ontario Provincial Police) detachment in that area.
The men went out in an aluminum boat. I have been listening to the CBC Ottawa this morning but no mention of this situation.
As a sole paddler risk management is always a concern.
As a sole paddler I abide by survival principles and ... there are some I don't abide by.
For the principles I adhere to I commend myself.
For the one's I don't adhere to I excuse my behaviour, to my detriment, no doubt.
So this news story about these two has struck a nerve. The angel on my right shoulder is quietly being heard loud and clear over the din from the devil on my other shoulder.
There is a very important lesson in this story for me and I need to hear it.
I need to listen. And to think. And do the right thing.
I so badly want these guys to be okay.
It could happen to me.
Wednesday, November 20, 2013
To Gallaghers Point And Back
It was a very good paddle. Rainy with a bit of wind, but very mild ... 11C. This first image shows the trees on Hog Island. This is the Lower Rideau Lake still.
The next image shows the bridge at Rideau Ferry. Once I cross under the bridge I will be into Big Rideau Lake. There are three "Rideau" lakes ... the Lower, the Big, and the Upper. The Upper is at the highest elevation. The Lower and the Big are at a lower elevation than the Upper. The Big is called that because area wise it is the largest.
The next image shows some of the islands in the Big Rideau. It is raining and slightly windy.
This one is a shot of the stern of the kayak showing the extra paddle and removable deck light.
All these photos are taken with the waterproof GoPro Hero 3. This underwater image shows the surface of the water, the hull of the kayak and the rocky bottom of the lake.
Here I am parked for a snack/break.
Finally, heading back towards Rideau Ferry, the Lower Rideau where I put in and take out.
Tuesday, November 19, 2013
Thirty Nine & Still Dreaming
The title of this post refers to my 39th time on the water since July 14, 2013, when my kayaking career started.
The "Dreaming" part of this post title refers to those moments when I stop in the lake and just relax ... just listen ... just be.
That dreamy state is one of the feelings that shows me how good being on the water is for my head, heart and soul!
Since my last post I have been on the water 3 more times ... on the 11th, 12th and 17th of November.
The weather is even more important on the water at this time of the year.
November 12 was the first time I paddled in freezing and snow conditions. It was snowing, the temperature was below freezing and there were wind gusts which caused the wind chill to plummet.
The ice is visible on the equipment on the above images. The equipment still performed as intended, however ... after getting off the water the paddle would not separate because the joint was frozen.
As far as the effectiveness of my thermal protection is concerned, it all worked well. My nose and cheeks and mouth did get cold in the wind.
The 5mm neoprene mitts were a lifesaver for the hands.
The hands have to be able to work. Survival depends on it.
Fortunately there were no capsizes, although I am confident that I could have self rescued should one have occurred.
The dry suit performed over and above as usual.
My most recent paddle was on the 17th. A more than 3 hour trip to Gallagher's Point and back on the Big Rideau Lake.
The 11C degree temperature was a gift. It was rainy and windy, but not excessive. The night of the 17th the big winds that caused havoc in Illinois came through here. By the time they arrived here they had diminished to about 50-70 km/hour winds. There were power outages across southern Ontario and Quebec.
The "Dreaming" part of this post title refers to those moments when I stop in the lake and just relax ... just listen ... just be.
That dreamy state is one of the feelings that shows me how good being on the water is for my head, heart and soul!
Since my last post I have been on the water 3 more times ... on the 11th, 12th and 17th of November.
The weather is even more important on the water at this time of the year.
November 12 was the first time I paddled in freezing and snow conditions. It was snowing, the temperature was below freezing and there were wind gusts which caused the wind chill to plummet.
As far as the effectiveness of my thermal protection is concerned, it all worked well. My nose and cheeks and mouth did get cold in the wind.
The 5mm neoprene mitts were a lifesaver for the hands.
The hands have to be able to work. Survival depends on it.
Fortunately there were no capsizes, although I am confident that I could have self rescued should one have occurred.
The dry suit performed over and above as usual.
My most recent paddle was on the 17th. A more than 3 hour trip to Gallagher's Point and back on the Big Rideau Lake.
Saturday, November 9, 2013
To Port Elmsley & Back
My most recent kayak adventure occurred this past November 7.
It was a paddle across the north west side of Lower Rideau Lake, past Beveridges Bay and on towards the Tay River.
It was a well planned trip. The spherical compass has made all the difference. I plotted a course on the chart to Stonehouse Island my first reference point. Once past the island I tracked to the port and consulted the chart to avoid shoals and shallows.
Here is one short video from the trip.
It was a paddle across the north west side of Lower Rideau Lake, past Beveridges Bay and on towards the Tay River.
It was a well planned trip. The spherical compass has made all the difference. I plotted a course on the chart to Stonehouse Island my first reference point. Once past the island I tracked to the port and consulted the chart to avoid shoals and shallows.
Here is one short video from the trip.
This is taken about 15 minutes into the 2 hour journey. I am using a GoPro Hero 3 Black Edition. Handheld at this point still to install a bracket to the deck of the boat then I won't have to hold the camera.
It was a good paddle. No rolling or rescues on this trip. The water is cold on my head and my hands. The thermal gear keeps the rest of me dry and warm, definitely a needed investment.
Chao for now!
Wednesday, October 30, 2013
Kayak Submarine
If this guy isn't rich yet, he soon will be. Maybe.
The CIA and every other dirty trickster will be all over this.
Check it out here:
Pretty cool, huh?
The CIA and every other dirty trickster will be all over this.
Check it out here:
Pretty cool, huh?
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)