Wednesday, July 13, 2011

Camping?
I woke and opened the flap of my tent to be greeted by a gentle surf washing onto the sandy shore. Grand Island lay in the background under cloudy skies. The 10 knot wind was a chilling 55F.2 sea kayaks lay over to the side while the musical sound of JB snoring in the next tent could just be heard above the wind and waves.  Life seemed pure and simple.

When I finally came out of my tent, I turned to see huge RV's, cheek to jowl, some actually hooked up to sewer lines. Many had dishes to receive satellite TV signals. Bulking air conditioners sat on their roofs. Considering the cost of the vehicles and the means their owners must have, I figure they were "camping" in conditions more congested than their neighborhoods. I wondered why they bothered.

Was it the scenery? The camaraderie of other RVers? I saw no kayaks or other toys on most of them, just chairs to sit out front under the awnings attached to their mobile homes. Still, they were all friendly and seemed as happy as myself to be away from what ever we all get away from. No matter. Life is short and can be as good as we make it. Heck, maybe I'll get a bigger tent.

Paddle safe...
DS

4 comments:

Anonymous said...

Did not get a chance to say "see ya" so I thought I would catch up online. Evan and I would like to thank you again for the outstanding instruction at the symposium. Evan kept saying the whole day "gosh that guy is smart" wonderful job the experience shows along with the patience or is that patients. We put the training to the test in the surf along US 2, and we both commented on how the new moves worked well. Good luck and keep up training. Thanks again, Todd and Evan

DaveO said...

You for got the astroturf outside the RV door and the string of cute lights around the awning. Different strokes for different folks as we kayakers say. I just don't have to pretend to get it. Good seeing you and the whole crew this weekend. My favorite kayak event of the year.

Silbs said...

You were great students and clearly great people. I am better for having met you. I apologize for the mix up on dinner and would have liked to join you. Things got chaotic and I ended up grabbing the pasties and being in bed by 9:30. Where can I send you some pics?

Silbs said...

DaveO: Always a joy to see and play with you, and it is never enough time for us to paddle together.