Learning My Limits in Small Craft Boating

By: James Nugent

Narrated by: Barbara Colvin

Sometimes it is prudent to give up.

I was paddling hard with the wind and waves coming across my port bow. The storm had calmed down a bit and I was making a mile long mad dash from The Evergreen State College Beach to Young Cove. To the right inside Young Cove was my lagoon and my Madrona tree to which I tie up my various small water craft.

I could cover the distance in about 15 minutes unless the wind picked up. I hate to give into weather in my kayaking; however I had too often been in too many high risk situations caused by my lack of prudence. Although my small craft skills are outstanding, it occurred to me as I fought to stay upright that there really are limits.

I was within the last quarter mile of my destination when I capsized. I bobbed to the service with a nose full of salt water. I wasn't cold because I had a full wet suit on. I flipped so quickly that I had no chance to brace. I was just instantly upside down in the water. Noting how peaceful it was underwater I slowly exited the kayak and found my paddle.

©2015 James Nugent (P)2015 James Nugent

Interesting Little Book

I liked the stories in this book. They were pretty interesting. Good info on small boats.