Kayaking in the Beauty of British Columbia

In case you don't know, this year I took up sea/touring kayaking in an effort to get outdoors more. I live within 20 minute of 3 lakes, and a major white water river where I believe some of Canada's best practice regularly.

Now, I am not into whitewater kayaking. Its an adrenaline rush to be sure, but I enjoy the paddling experience of a crystal clear lake with a bit of fog on the water at 8 in the morning. Nothing beats the calm solitude, where the birds chirp and the cool air tickles your entire being. Or kayaking in in the sea while watching Orcas swim past you. Nothing beats having your mind in a completely different universe than the Internet.

Well this weekend, much like Alan, I kinda over did it with two full days of kayaking. I put on SPF30 sunblock on my arms, but forgot I was wearing a sleeveless top, which means my shoulders are as red as a candy apple. There is so much heat still coming off of the burn its not even funny. Its difficult to lift the arms to type!

But the paddling was awesome. We actually got together with some of the kayak experts at Western Canoe and Kayak and practiced some neat rescues and even did some stand up kayaking. You haven't kayaked until you have rafted up with a buddy and have one of you stand up and paddle. Very interesting sensation.

Anyways, besides a very painful sunburn the weekend was great. If I would have known Alan was going to Hicks I might have headed that way. Small lake with no motor boats allowed, and is rather warm. Great place for a novice kayaker to go for a couple of hours. Oh well, maybe next time.