Sunday, August 26, 2012

"A Mile Or So, A Thousand Times..."


When solo coastal sea kayaking, we find ourselves very aware of maritime distances, especially when out among endless wind and waves. We seek seclusion where the tides and timings of the season generously gift this to us. This chosen water route I have paddled many times, over longer years and seasons. My intention soon is to seek solitude and these elusive islands provide so many opportunities and possibilities for just that...
I've read my charts very closely, always looking for new paths and inlets, and forever finding variations, even after many familiar wanderings out there. One wild place in particular is what I fondly refer to as my 'there and back' beach. A mile or so, maybe a kilometer and a half, of countless cobblestones, broken and whole shells, so soft sands, and shifting driftwood too. Sometimes it becomes more revealing with the ever changing tides, while other quiet moments shyly still keeping its secrets...
On this 'there and back' beach I have wandered across, then returned over long moments, musing while strolling and gazing, and often gathering up little selected touchstones. Just walking, maybe hiking, always pondering, only a short distance, maybe a mile or so, yet a thousand times or more...
A 'there and back' wild place this is, so known yet never twice the same, always something to be discovered, among the ever changing sands and ways of seeing too...
Time to soon wander there once again.....  DSD 
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5 comments:

  1. Jeff4:50 PM

    Hello D. Something I've wondered about.

    I've never gone sea kayaking. Well, I've never gone kayaking period. I was wondering what it's like when you are out on the ocean alone with no land in sight.

    It's pretty much you, your kayak, the water, the sun, and the air. Obviously a compass would be very important, but did you ever find yourself in a panic? Now what? Now where?

    It seems like it might be at least a little bit eery the first time.

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  2. Barry8:22 AM

    Astute observation. Quality wins over quantity every time. It is the accumulation of indelible moments which build the foundation for experiencing a framework of lasting memories. Thank you for your insightful comments. Wishing you fair weather and calm seas for your time on the water.

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  3. northierthanthou6:40 PM

    Those islands look beautiful.

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  4. Unknown6:13 AM

    Hi Jeff,
    Very natural thoughts and feelings when first far out there like this. Usually that kind of experience is with a group or Guide, and you are very right, a compass is essential.
    You've prompted some memories and musing here too. Think I will post about those...
    D

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  5. Unknown6:15 AM

    Hi Barry,
    Much appreciation for your musings here as well. Thanks for sending me off soon with your wishes too. :)
    D

    Northier... They are some of the most beautiful islands out there.
    Thanks for commenting,
    D

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