Brand Spankin' new Graduate

Midge graduated from University this week. I flew up to Utah for the occasion and spent four days hanging out with various aunts and uncles as well as my parents and, of course, the Honoree.

Best of luck to her in whatever she chooses to do with her life!

On Rolling a Kayak

I'm terrible at kayaking, but I love it. The adrenalin rush makes suffering through sucking manageable. However, whenever anyone hosts a practice day I am the first to sign up—never to miss an opportunity to get out in the water and work on my skills.

Monday was such a day. After a nice long bike ride over the weekend, I came home, took my bike off my car, and tossed the kayak on top. Then, after work on Monday I rushed home, and drove off to the lake to practice. The weather was chilly, and the water was frigid. Usually I wear a splash jacket when paddling, but I always get water up my sleeve, so I opted to not.

Bad choice.

I was so cold that after a 20 minutes of dunking and sucking I finally announced that I was bailing. I pulled my boat out of the lake, hiked up to my car, changed into dry clothes (including pulling on my emergency beanie), and headed to REI where I bought a new wet suit, and jacket. I shall be very warm next time.

I still need a new swimsuit.