tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-23725821686270836902024-03-13T13:35:20.969-04:00Kayaking on the Dupage River and beyondMy entrance into the wonderful world of recreational kayakingKayak Man Danhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16335537391414889980noreply@blogger.comBlogger65125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2372582168627083690.post-87064857055562004322013-02-10T13:00:00.000-05:002013-02-10T13:11:33.805-05:00"I think I am blocking the river"While 2012 was a drought filled year that made finding acceptable water levels a challenge, 2013 has started out with a nice combination of snow and rain giving the kayaking world hope that the upcoming year will be an improvement. As the RSVP's poured in, Dan felt like a high school reunion chairman or better yet one of the Blues Brothers as he hustled to put the band back together. Kent, Tom, Russ, JD, Jim H. fell into place. Hell, even Jim M. dug through his vast collection of toys and dusted off ole' yeller. Dan smiled to himself and in his best imitation of Animal House's Flounder exclaimed: "This is gonna be great!" But wait....something was missing. Where was our Curly of the Three Stooges, our Chrissie of Three's Company, the other woman in our dreams of a<em> Menage a Trois</em>? Yep, although an original member of the consecutive month kayaking club, Pat has long established his kayaking preference is that of a loner. He has become the Grand Bu pah of the solo yak...a Master masturyaker as it were. <br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Clockwise from upper left: Dan, group, Jim H., Kent, Jim M., Russ, JD, Tom</td></tr>
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Enjoying mild temperatures in the thirties, the seven yakkers put in at Hidden Lake and headed towards the Arboretum. As Kent and Russ power stroked ahead as if trying out for the last spot on Yale's sculling team, conversation at the tail end of the group eventually landed on the legality of entering the Arboretum via the river. Were we trespassing or not? Although the question has been asked many times before and opinions on the topic are unlimited, a definitive answer never seems to be forthcoming nor would it on this trip. As the five stragglers came around a bend they saw Russ and all 12 feet of his kayak stretched across the width of the river. Apparently thinking that the best way to get over a submerged tree limb was sideways like a high jumper doing the Fossberry Flop instead of a hurdler attacking it head on, Russ got caught up on the tree. As the realization set in that he was now blocking the rest of the group Russ shrugged his shoulders and sheepishly said "I think I am blocking the river!" No SH!# Sherlock!! After a few minutes the obstruction was removed (as well as the tree limb!) and the trip continued. Dan shook his head and muttered under his breath "FNG Russ". <br />
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While the increased water level provided some nice riffles in multiple sections, it did cause some concern about the chosen departure location...a gushing spillway. Despite his little mishap earlier in the trip Russ took the bull by the horns and roared right up to the fast flowing water. The whole group held their breath in anticipation of the impending disaster. For some of us, this would not be the first time we have witnessed a fallen brethren sitting in the freezing water next to this spillway. Much to our shock (and relief), Russ calmly stepped out of his yak onto shore like he was getting out of his recliner to fetch another brew. The ease in which he did this maneuver was surprising to everyone especially after they all struggled to get onto shore themselves. Although I love the label, maybe it is time to remove the FNG tag. Kent, practicing a self imposed alcohol moratorium, went to get his car while the rest of the group enjoyed a nice cold beer, next to the river a mere 100 yards from the police station. Hard to think of a better way to kill some time on a lazy winter afternoon! SYOTR.<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The boys enjoy a cold one after a successful trip</td></tr>
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Kayak Man Danhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16335537391414889980noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2372582168627083690.post-7580846470291911792013-02-03T16:53:00.002-05:002013-02-03T16:54:11.006-05:00Duper...we have a PROBLEM! February had arrived, the rivers were at a nice level after the recent rain and the snowfall the night before set the scene for what should have been a great winter kayak trip. Dan (extending his streak to 87 consecutive months), Tom, Katie and Russ set off on what was planned to be the North avenue to Beecher route. All was good initially until we rounded a bend and saw a large tree creating a major blockage. With a 2 foot ice shelf guarding the 4 foot high bank, the kayakers were facing some crucial decisions. While finding a place to get out for a potential portage was proving difficult, the unknown prospect of trying to successfully get back into the yaks after the tree ultimately sealed the deal. The decision? We would paddle back upstream and abort the original plans. While it involved more effort than we typically like to exert, things were going well until we hit the "rapids". We would have to portage if we liked it or not. Taking advantage of his insulated waders, Dan got out and pulled Katie to a safe spot while Tom and Russ looked for another option. <br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Russ, Katie and Tom enjoy the majestic winter beauty not knowing what was around the bend</td></tr>
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While the snow can make for a beautiful backdrop to a winter kayak trip, it can also hide unknown dangers to the unaware. After struggling up the steep embankment to "solid" ground, Russ and Tom set off upstream to scout out a re-entrance point to the river to continue the trip back to the cars. They had only taken a few steps when old man winter kicked Tom in the teeth. What he thought was a safe spot to step turned out to be trap. As the ground gave way, Tom plunged into the frigid water below. The shocking bite of the 33 degree water caused Tom to scream out in shock. Dan whipped his head around just in time to see the smirk on Russ's face that seemed to say "I knew you shouldn't have stepped there dumb@$$ !!" As it turns out only one leg went in about knee deep and disaster was avoided. <br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">A desperate Tom reaches out for assistance from Russ </td></tr>
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Once everyone was safely back in their kayaks, the paddle upstream was without further incident. Back on shore the group stood next to their ice covered gear and enjoyed a nice cold bottle of brew. Topics changed quickly from the ice cold temperature of the beer, to the need for upgraded winter kayaking gear to the changed kayak transport situation due to the altered route. Attempting to be funny Russ pointed out that his truck and kayak were already here and all he had to do was make the quick trip back home (thus stranding Dan with a kayak, no car and no ride). Not receiving the panicked reaction to his comments that he was hoping for, a few minutes later Russ repeated his whimsical comment hoping maybe that the group would think he was really serious if he said it again. Dan took the bait and disgustingly said "If it wasn't funny the first time you said it why did you think it would be funny the second time?". The group enjoyed a chuckle, sucked down the last few ounces of beer and loaded up the gear all agreeing that this adventure was a first (and one that no one would want to repeat). Till next time...see you on the river.<br />
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Kayak Man Danhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16335537391414889980noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2372582168627083690.post-47013497732135947732012-03-04T22:13:00.000-05:002012-03-04T22:13:28.723-05:00St Charles to Lions Park by kayakmandan30 at Garmin Connect - Details<a href="http://connect.garmin.com/activity/155081454#.T1QvJdneG4I.blogger">St Charles to Lions Park by kayakmandan30 at Garmin Connect - Details</a>Kayak Man Danhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16335537391414889980noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2372582168627083690.post-73850689956187936622012-02-05T22:51:00.004-05:002012-02-05T23:13:34.101-05:00Consecutive month 75 saw Dan, Kent and Pat (YES....the original Duper boys back together again) out on the old standby..Centennnial Beach to Pioneer Park. You would think the day before the big Super Bowl game we would have spent the whole time talking about THE GAME. Instead, we talked about kick ass meals we had recently had at restaurants, how to reproduce those recipes at home and in what ways we could alter those recipes to make them beter....does not get much more macho than that!! <br /><br />http://westmontbbq.com/amateurresults.html<br /><br /><a href="http://westmontbbq.com/amateurresults.html"></a>Kayak Man Danhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16335537391414889980noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2372582168627083690.post-61160029594352673412012-01-22T17:03:00.006-05:002012-01-22T19:39:04.499-05:00"If you don't drink in the morning.....<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-A41cDZ_-7EE/TxypRACd5UI/AAAAAAAABBU/kZ_sRJCjDng/s1600/kayaking%2B0122%2B%2B2012%2BBlog%2Bphoto.jpg"><img style="float:left; margin:0 10px 10px 0;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 229px;" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-A41cDZ_-7EE/TxypRACd5UI/AAAAAAAABBU/kZ_sRJCjDng/s320/kayaking%2B0122%2B%2B2012%2BBlog%2Bphoto.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5700617337877423426" /></a><br />......you can't drink all day." In every group in every situation, people tend to take on certain roles within the group....classic group dynamic stuff. The more I kayak with Russ, the more I am perplexed on what his role will be. I am liking "FNG Russ" just because I love the whole "FNG" label and it is not every day that this label fits someone as nicely as this fits Russ. It has a very comfortable feel, much like a pair of old slippers. Last week on the Chicago river Deb tossed out "Wrong way Russ". Possibility? Yes, but after hearing his little gem above and his weekly singsongy "I don't know where the Huskies go just don't eat the yellow snow!" (my apologies if either quote is not verbatim) I am thinking he may take on a new role that has not been filled before. <br /><br />Oh yeah, the trip. We put in at Hidden Lake and took out at Community Park. We had some low spots that required a few wet walks but everyone who walked was quite pleased with their footwear and the cold water was not an issue. After the trip Russ was kind enough to bring 4 glasses and multiple beers for a post yak beer sampling. A little Backwoods Bastard was followed by some Breakfast Stout and lastly KBY. The last 2 looked more like chocolate syrup than beer but tasty just the same. As we were walking back to our cars, Russ grabbed a chunk of old cardboard out of his truck, threw it on the ground and proudly called out "Hey look, my changing mat!" As I drove away I smiled to myself and shook my head..."FNG Russ". If nothing else he has added some color to these dreary winter yaks. Till next time....SYOTR (see you on the river!)<br /><br />PS Click on the link below for my new technological toy. Click on the Green map bubble at the top of the map, then hit the gray play button. Be sure you are scrolled down on the page so you can see as it tracks our trip down the river. <br /><br /><br /><a href="http://connect.garmin.com/activity/143876645#.TxyHhMoP4tM.blogger">Arboretum Float 1/22/2012 by kayakmandan30 at Garmin Connect - Details</a>Kayak Man Danhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16335537391414889980noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2372582168627083690.post-55208267834935945272012-01-05T19:35:00.009-05:002012-01-05T20:22:15.988-05:00FNG takes a plunge!!!The reach of the Duper boys' influence has been well documented on this blog. What started out with Dan and Pat in a borrowed canoe has evolved into a consecutive month kayak streak that has reached 74 months for Dan, Pat and Kent (I am confident Kent will get out in January since he had to miss the annual New Years Day float). Since Pat's canoe, Dan's single kayak and Kent's tandem, I can come up with a count of about 15 kayak purchases that can directly or indirectly be traced back to the Duper Boys. With all these kayak purchases the need to moochayak* has been greatly reduced. If I count the seats correctly, we could have 21 people on the river at the same time.....LETS DO IT!!<br /><br />Interesting to point out that all four Doyle boys own multiple boats. Tom, while threatening to buy one for years, finally took the plunge along with his daughter Katie (2nd female owner after her cousin Theresa) in the spring of 2011. Experiencing the freedom that the gently flowing rivers of the Chicago area offer, Tom has appeared to set his sights on a streak of his own. "Once a month?' he thought, "that is amateur hour". Not sure how he is doing on maintaining his weekly trips but last I heard he had a bumper sticker stating "My other car is a kayak". What a madman.<br /><br />As I track the lineage of the kayaking family, I must give credit (or blame?) to Tom for bringing Russ into the fold. I have kayaked a few times with Russ and each time I have had at least one "shake my head in disbelief" moment as I watched Russ learn the art of river navigation. It was a trip in December that my shaking head moment turned into a "WTF?" moment. At one point it was necessary to navigate through a small opening of about 8 feet between some downed trees. As I went through I felt the river pulling me closer to the tree on the right than I wanted to be but I made it through with no issues. I held my breath, listening behind me as Tom and Katie both went through silently with no problem. It was then I heard the shockingly loud noise as if someone was scraping their fingernails on a chalkboard or sticking an electric cattle prod up a cat's a$$. I whipped my head around just in time to see Russ crash into the tree branches (STRAINER!!!)and slowly get dumped into the river. As he gathered his feet underneath him and the shock of the cold water started to set in you could sense by the pained expression on his face that a certain part of his anatomy was transforming in the frigid Salt Creek water much like plump grapes transform into shriveled raisins!! His eyes bulged and his breath quickened as the harsh realty and dangers of winter kayaking set in while he stood chest deep in the 34 degree water. After we got him back safely into his yak, he declared "Maybe I should wear my scuba diving dry suit next time"........ya think? That or a Neoprene / Gore-Tex body condom!! To his credit, he keeps coming back and seems to really enjoy it.<br /><br />Later on that day a text was sent to Pat and he later advised that there was no need for further explanation: "Russ swims with the fishes". Don't feel bad Russ, you are not the first. <br /><br />*(mooch - ah - yak) verb (used with object): To take or obtain a kayak with the promise to return the same or an equivalent: Since Jim did not own a kayak, his desire to masturyak whenever he felt the urge was continually hampered by his need to moochayak.<br /><br />http://kayakman30.blogspot.com/2010/03/yakker-down-yakker-down-dip-in-dupe.htmlKayak Man Danhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16335537391414889980noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2372582168627083690.post-70983668753026592602010-10-20T19:39:00.005-04:002010-10-20T20:36:35.465-04:00Bloggers strike is settled! Streak uninterupted.The pressure to produce informative yet entertaining recaps of the Duper boys' adventures caused an unfortunate blog-stoppage over the last few months. Call it a case of writer's block or just a lack of anything to write about but I am back in the blogoshpere. Who am I kidding anyway? Most of this is done just to satisfy my own desire to read some qualify prose. Kind of in the same vein (easy fellas, not a big purple one!) as when I get caught talking to myself and my standard response is "sometimes its the only way I can have an interesting conversation!"<br /><br /><br /><br />Rest assured, the lack of a monthly accounting of all trips does in no way mean that the monthly trips did not take place. We utilized both east and west branches as well as the post merge DuPage river rapids trip in Shorewood. Pat, Dan, Kent and Chuck took advantage of some nice water and had a great time riding the wave trains. The post paddle beers and shots didn't hurt either. Apparently, Kent liked it so much he had Chuck drive him all the way to Lisle, just to drive back down again all in the same day. Not sure what the story was but I think I would have remembered that I had my car and had not accepted the ride home with another man. They do seem to have a "special" bond.<br /><br /><br />Over the almost 5 consecutive years of yakking, there have been conversations regarding what counts as an official trip and what does not. "No", they do not all have to be on the Dupage river. "Yes" renting a kayak on vacation continues the streak, etc. We, the active streak members (Pat, Kent and Dan), are usually in complete agreement, after all who other than us really gives a damn if the streak continues or not? This all being said, I feel I would be doing the consecutive kayaking streak loving world a disservice if I did not recall a conversation between Kent and Dan 3 weeks prior to Kent's Alaskan cruise. Kent: "I am getting on the cruise ship on June 29th, that counts as my June trip, right?". Dan: "Are you f%&#ing kidding me? A canoe. yes, a row boat, maybe, but a 70 ton cruise ship!!! You have 3 weeks left in June, get on the river!!!" Kent sometimes likes to mess with my mind but I don't he was this time, he was being serious. If nothing else, our streak will always be about enjoying the water, the outdoors and each other's company........in a MAN POWERED boat, preferably a kayak.<br /><br /><br />Where the HELL is the RAIN???? We need some WATER!!!!Kayak Man Danhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16335537391414889980noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2372582168627083690.post-59982669640018612802010-05-16T09:35:00.002-04:002010-05-16T09:38:35.668-04:00Streak hits 53Kent and Dan hit the river 4/3 and JD and Pat <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_0" class="blsp-spelling-corrected">squeaked</span> in a run the last week of the month (4/28) with an evening float.Kayak Man Danhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16335537391414889980noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2372582168627083690.post-43122517497232189742010-03-14T17:07:00.011-04:002010-05-16T09:28:24.646-04:00Yakker Down!! Yakker Down!!! Dip in the Dupe!Dan, Pat,. JD, Jim H., Tom D. Centennial Beach to <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_0" class="blsp-spelling-error">Knoch</span> Knolls. Gauge 7.19 ft, discharge 719.<br /><br />Jim H. got an exciting introduction to solo yakking less than 100 yards from the put in. The rifles in downtown <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_1" class="blsp-spelling-error">Naperville</span> can be a little exciting when the river is high and fast like it was today. Jim <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_2" class="blsp-spelling-corrected">maneuvered</span> his way like a true pro but once the water settled he declared: "Quite an introduction going through the double Diamond back" (or something to that affect, I think it must be a skiing term). On another <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_3" class="blsp-spelling-corrected">occasion</span> he followed Dan's lead (a mistake since Dan and Tom were not going where they wanted to) and he got stuck on construction material. Dan looked back and shouted "<span id="SPELLING_ERROR_4" class="blsp-spelling-corrected">Don't</span>' turn sideways, Jim" to which Jim yelled back "I'm not trying to!!!". With Pat coaching him to back up and paddle strong to <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_5" class="blsp-spelling-corrected">extricate</span> himself Jim again looked like an old pro. "I owned that, like a three pointer to win the game...nothing but net!!"<br /><br />As the group passed Pioneer Park the veterans (Pat and Dan) elected river left around the island while the rookies (Jim and JD) elected river right. Like a Dad letting his kids sled down the big hill by themselves for the first time, Dan quickly got around the island and got in position to observe as his "kids" finished. Jim, fresh off his recent river success once again handled the fast moving river like a pro. Dan smiled proudly.....uh oh, STRAINER!!! A twelve foot long, 8 inch diameter limb was hanging out 3 feet above the churning water. <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_6" class="blsp-spelling-error">Jims's</span> eyes widened as the river sucked him towards the looming limb. He stuck out his left hand onto the end of the limb and successfully avoided disaster. A sigh of <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_7" class="blsp-spelling-corrected">relief</span> was had by Jim and Dan. Oh no!! JD was right behind and Dan felt powerless as he watched the scene unfold.<br /><br />JD was taking a similar path as Jim but that is where the <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_8" class="blsp-spelling-corrected">similarities</span> end. Whereas Jim just missed the end of the limb, JD was heading straight at the midpoint. His eyes widened as the river directed him to a place he did not want to go. To avoid decapitation JD ducked his head and did a <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_9" class="blsp-spelling-corrected">dead lift</span> on the limb all at the same time. You think his eyes got wide as he <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_10" class="blsp-spelling-corrected">approached</span> the limb? They opened another couple degrees as he found himself waist deep in the frigid water. Did I say waist deep? Oh yeah the river was moving quickly, forcing JD to "jog"further down river. The water was now chest deep. We don't even need to mention how certain body parts were racing and other parts were shrinking aka George Costanza "there was shrinkage!" Somehow Pat and JD managed to gather all equipment and get JD back in the boat. There was <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_11" class="blsp-spelling-corrected">speculation</span> that <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_12" class="blsp-spelling-error">JD's</span> brief kayaking career could come to an end but JD took the other route....defiantly claiming he needed to go run that route again just to prove he could do it.Kayak Man Danhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16335537391414889980noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2372582168627083690.post-86232820651154573702010-02-15T08:24:00.004-05:002010-03-14T09:32:05.469-04:00Butkus........number 51 in a rowDan, Kent, Pat, JD, JimM., Jim H., Tom D.<br /><br />Going with the first weekend in the month strategy in order to extend the streak, 7 of us headed down to Hidden Lake for the Arboretum run. Although the temperature was a very acceptable 30'ish, the water level was questionable (5.11 on the Naperville gauge). Kent and Jim H. teamed up as did Dan and Tom in the tandems, while JD, Pat and Jim M. did it by themselves. Despite getting stuck multiple times (tandems more than solos), the veterans enjoyed an old friend while the first timers appeared to really enjoy this route.<br /><br /><br />The fishermen in the group fantasized of a future "Big Catch" while Dan and Kent fondly recalled their moonlit, bug filled inaugural night 'yak. Jim M. retold an episode of Two and a half men in which Alan took up kayaking and Charlie accused him of masturyaking. I would love to know when that episode initially aired and see if it is after my Urban Dictionary published definition.Kayak Man Danhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16335537391414889980noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2372582168627083690.post-885234861567995702010-01-24T16:49:00.022-05:002010-03-14T09:34:00.114-04:00"I just want to cuddle up!" Who are you?<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_Z6fiFrDxR-g/S2D1rL5NTII/AAAAAAAAA80/_3kiItniG_E/s1600-h/IMG_1108.JPG"><img style="WIDTH: 320px; HEIGHT: 240px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5431611272884735106" border="0" alt="" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_Z6fiFrDxR-g/S2D1rL5NTII/AAAAAAAAA80/_3kiItniG_E/s320/IMG_1108.JPG" /></a><br /><div><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_Z6fiFrDxR-g/S2Dx6G0MM3I/AAAAAAAAA8k/nN-hQTJvx7c/s1600-h/IMG_1110.JPG"><img style="WIDTH: 320px; HEIGHT: 240px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5431607131173041010" border="0" alt="" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_Z6fiFrDxR-g/S2Dx6G0MM3I/AAAAAAAAA8k/nN-hQTJvx7c/s320/IMG_1110.JPG" /></a><br /><br /><br /><div><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_Z6fiFrDxR-g/S2Dx5vlA-nI/AAAAAAAAA8c/euCrzqpNFhM/s1600-h/IMG_1115.JPG"><img style="WIDTH: 320px; HEIGHT: 240px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5431607124935375474" border="0" alt="" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_Z6fiFrDxR-g/S2Dx5vlA-nI/AAAAAAAAA8c/euCrzqpNFhM/s320/IMG_1115.JPG" /></a><br />Masturyaker Dan</div><div><br /> </div><div></div><div>With tentative yakking plans in place, the river raging and the temperature in the 40's, Dan was looking forward to exploring one of his favorite trips, the Arboretum run. With little interest from others, Kent and Dan were set to to enjoy a long lost trip that had been avoided due to a downed tree. That was until Kent called it off, saying it was too cold and that this was a day</div><div>that he "just wanted to cuddle up"...or something to that affect. It was a balmy 45 degrees when Dan hit the Duper.....at the end of JANUARY.....in NORTHERN ILLINOIS!!! Not only is the executive board considering fines and or sanctions against Kent for his reckless cancellation, there have been rumors that a revocation of his man-card is being considered.<br /><br />Knowing that although he did not suggest the cancellation of the trip, he knew that going along with it would possibly subject him to the same scrutiny that Kent will have to endure. Recalling how Boone and Stratton reacted when Dean Wermer advised them of their double secret probation in Animal House (toga party), Dan smiled at himself in the mirror, nodded and said: "MASTURYAK" . For those unfamiliar with the term please follow the convenient link to Urban Dictionary where my published definition can be enjoyed via the world wide web.</div><div><a href="http://www.urbandictionary.com/define.php?term=masturyak">http://www.urbandictionary.com/define.php?term=masturyak</a><br /><br />Much like a prom date-less high school boy who knew he wasn't going to get any, Dan knew that sometimes it is better alone that not at all and he headed off for a little "me" time in his single yak. The river was fast and high as well as clear of any downed trees. Unbridled by the wishes or desires of others and not having any performance anxiety, Dan guided his yak skillfully down the swollen river, almost becoming one with the Duper (spiritually becoming one, not like becoming part of the river like someone in a previous blog entry did) . As he exited the river, he once again reminded himself of what he and his fellow yakers have always known: when the river is high you need to take advantage of it no matter how stupid the rest of the world may think you are.</div><div><br />I can only hope that any possible suspension levied against Kent does not jeopardize his streak.<br /><br />Pictures: Dan and Chloe before trip, Solo Dan, inlet at Community Park (note how high the water is)</div></div>Kayak Man Danhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16335537391414889980noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2372582168627083690.post-23583073922361680222010-01-02T11:01:00.012-05:002010-03-14T09:37:06.328-04:00Santa Float 2009...Pat sneaks in #49<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_Z6fiFrDxR-g/S0KoymRKDpI/AAAAAAAAA70/xpnFyxtaS1w/s1600-h/IMG_1044+Santa+Dan+and+Pat-1.JPG"><img style="WIDTH: 320px; HEIGHT: 240px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5423082488526933650" border="0" alt="" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_Z6fiFrDxR-g/S0KoymRKDpI/AAAAAAAAA70/xpnFyxtaS1w/s320/IMG_1044+Santa+Dan+and+Pat-1.JPG" /></a><br /><div><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_Z6fiFrDxR-g/S0KO4qRny_I/AAAAAAAAA7s/mZwyLK-zWws/s1600-h/IMG_1061-1.JPG"><img style="WIDTH: 320px; HEIGHT: 240px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5423054005379517426" border="0" alt="" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_Z6fiFrDxR-g/S0KO4qRny_I/AAAAAAAAA7s/mZwyLK-zWws/s320/IMG_1061-1.JPG" /></a><br /><br /><div><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_Z6fiFrDxR-g/S0KO4P0VfkI/AAAAAAAAA7k/f0IpXFTFhME/s1600-h/IMG_1024-1.JPG"></a><br /><br /><div><br /><div><br /><div><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_Z6fiFrDxR-g/Sz94ccrN-ZI/AAAAAAAAAvQ/GECnHSGPb4U/s1600-h/December2009+pictures-01.jpg"><img style="WIDTH: 320px; HEIGHT: 179px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5422184906506500498" border="0" alt="" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_Z6fiFrDxR-g/Sz94ccrN-ZI/AAAAAAAAAvQ/GECnHSGPb4U/s320/December2009+pictures-01.jpg" /></a><br /><br /><div><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_Z6fiFrDxR-g/Sz94cDQNiMI/AAAAAAAAAvI/eLGDCi9CadM/s1600-h/December2009+pictures-03.jpg"><img style="WIDTH: 320px; HEIGHT: 240px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5422184899682339010" border="0" alt="" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_Z6fiFrDxR-g/Sz94cDQNiMI/AAAAAAAAAvI/eLGDCi9CadM/s320/December2009+pictures-03.jpg" /></a><br />Dan, Kent, Pat, JD</div><div><br /> </div><div>Adapting to Kent's mantra that winter kayaking is best done the 1st week of the month, Dan and Kent had already put consecutive month 49 in the books earlier in the month. But Pat, much like a harried Christmas gift shopper on the 24th of December, had left his streak in jeopardy. Giving Mother Nature the finger and betting that the river would not freeze to end his streak, Pat set up a date with Kent (a bromance in the making?) for the last Sunday of the month. My experience has shown me that dates are much more successful when the other party is aware that they are involved in your planned activity. Pat claims mancode dictates that Kent should have known he had committed to the float based on a previous comment and Kent claimed he had never heard anything from Pat so he was not planning a trip on that day. Thank goodness the voice of reason and yak planning entered into the picture (Dan) and the trip took place.</div><div><br /></div><div></div><div><br /></div><div></div><div><br /><br /></div><div>Donning the Santa beard (Dan) and Santa helper hats (Kent, Pat and JD) two tandems floated thru downtown Naperville the Sunday after Christmas. Why the Santa float after Christmas you ask? The early month yak was too soon for the full Santa outfit and the after Christmas float did not seem to warrant the full outfit either, however Dan loves to wear the Santa beard through Naperville. Nothing was too noteworthy on the trip, other than there were fewer people witnessing the 4 red hatted kayakers than would be expected on a beautiful winter Sunday afternoon. </div></div></div></div></div></div>Kayak Man Danhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16335537391414889980noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2372582168627083690.post-14615473021682695162010-01-02T10:07:00.014-05:002010-03-14T09:35:39.687-04:005th consecutive New Year's Day float<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_Z6fiFrDxR-g/Sz9sG92NQNI/AAAAAAAAAvA/U8E1EMWQt20/s1600-h/December2009+pictures-58.jpg"><img style="WIDTH: 320px; HEIGHT: 214px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5422171343314305234" border="0" alt="" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_Z6fiFrDxR-g/Sz9sG92NQNI/AAAAAAAAAvA/U8E1EMWQt20/s320/December2009+pictures-58.jpg" /></a><br /><div><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_Z6fiFrDxR-g/Sz9sGlSo45I/AAAAAAAAAu4/6Q1cdnAjDtw/s1600-h/December2009+pictures-63.jpg"><img style="WIDTH: 320px; HEIGHT: 240px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5422171336722670482" border="0" alt="" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_Z6fiFrDxR-g/Sz9sGlSo45I/AAAAAAAAAu4/6Q1cdnAjDtw/s320/December2009+pictures-63.jpg" /></a> </div><div>Dan, Kent, Pat, JD, Jim M., Jim H.</div><div><br /> </div><div>Consecutive month 50 as well as the 5<span id="SPELLING_ERROR_0" class="blsp-spelling-error">th</span> consecutive New Year's Day float are in the books as 6 hearty soles braved temperatures in the teens and hit the <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_1" class="blsp-spelling-error">WBDR</span>, floating from Pioneer Park to Ring Road. The regulars (Dan, Kent and Pat) were joined by JD (don't look now, he has a cute little 3 month streak going himself), Jim M. (a returnee previously prominently <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_2" class="blsp-spelling-error">featured</span> in the blog entry "Duper Boys Jim, not the Polar Bear Club" <a href="http://kayakman30.blogspot.com/2008/04/duper-boys-jimnot-polar-bear-club.html#comments">http://kayakman30.blogspot.com/2008/04/duper-boys-jimnot-polar-bear-club.html#comments</a> ) and Jim H. (a Duper virgin). Regular readers of the blog are well aware of the initiation rites involved in <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_3" class="blsp-spelling-error">anyone's</span> first time float and may be thinking that Jim H. got a pass due to the severe cold and its possible effects on certain parts of the body not used to seeing the light of day. If there was any thought of a free pass on this frigid day, it was quickly put to rest when Kent glanced over at Jim and matter of <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_4" class="blsp-spelling-error">factly</span> stated: "Hey, newbie, you're coming with me!" Pat and Dan nodded their heads in agreement, knowing that Kent was the best choice on this particular day. Jim M. and JD gave a little shudder, glad that Mother Nature had been a little kinder to them on their <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_5" class="blsp-spelling-corrected">initiation</span> day.</div><div></div><div><br /></div><div>Despite the temperature, the trip was excellent as the crisp air, cold beers and good friends made for a very enjoyable float, leaving some of us wishing we had left the cars at <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_6" class="blsp-spelling-error">Knoch</span> Knolls so we could stay out a little longer. Pat and Kent were down right giddy with the effects that the hand warmers had on their not so frozen digits. Could we have solved our one main issue with winter <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_7" class="blsp-spelling-error">yakin</span>'? I hope so. As we pulled into the launch area at Ring Road, the sense that something was ending too soon came over the group and instead of getting off the river, we all just sat in our yaks, enjoyed another beer and did what guys do best...<span id="SPELLING_ERROR_8" class="blsp-spelling-error">BS'ing</span> about everything and nothing at the same time. Nice start to 2010 boys......see you in February if not before.</div><div><br /></div><div></div><div>FYI...last year's NYD's float was Jim M., Pat and Dan</div>Kayak Man Danhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16335537391414889980noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2372582168627083690.post-71613924567277181862009-11-01T20:46:00.011-05:002009-11-01T22:39:08.466-05:00Nov 1 makes it 4years straight...virgin meat in tow<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_Z6fiFrDxR-g/Su5O5gE_l5I/AAAAAAAAAuA/ZPM7rGj9L90/s1600-h/Nov+1+JD.jpg"><img style="MARGIN: 0px 0px 10px 10px; WIDTH: 320px; FLOAT: right; HEIGHT: 272px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5399339753034192786" border="0" alt="" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_Z6fiFrDxR-g/Su5O5gE_l5I/AAAAAAAAAuA/ZPM7rGj9L90/s320/Nov+1+JD.jpg" /></a><br /><div><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_Z6fiFrDxR-g/Su5O5bwXxtI/AAAAAAAAAt4/5VnK9UOjgOY/s1600-h/Nov+1+bridge.jpg"><img style="MARGIN: 0px 0px 10px 10px; WIDTH: 320px; FLOAT: right; HEIGHT: 178px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5399339751873955538" border="0" alt="" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_Z6fiFrDxR-g/Su5O5bwXxtI/AAAAAAAAAt4/5VnK9UOjgOY/s320/Nov+1+bridge.jpg" /></a><br /><br /><div><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_Z6fiFrDxR-g/Su5O5EOfSUI/AAAAAAAAAtw/6tiC0LH3HOU/s1600-h/IMG_0894.jpg"><img style="MARGIN: 0px 0px 10px 10px; WIDTH: 320px; FLOAT: right; HEIGHT: 220px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5399339745557825858" border="0" alt="" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_Z6fiFrDxR-g/Su5O5EOfSUI/AAAAAAAAAtw/6tiC0LH3HOU/s320/IMG_0894.jpg" /></a><br /><br /><br /><div><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_Z6fiFrDxR-g/Su5O5L0jCxI/AAAAAAAAAto/vkN7csniBng/s1600-h/Nov+1+Rick+adjusting+pants.jpg"><img style="MARGIN: 0px 0px 10px 10px; WIDTH: 138px; FLOAT: right; HEIGHT: 142px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5399339747596503826" border="0" alt="" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_Z6fiFrDxR-g/Su5O5L0jCxI/AAAAAAAAAto/vkN7csniBng/s320/Nov+1+Rick+adjusting+pants.jpg" /></a><br /><br /><br /><br /><div>The continued rainy weather and the 1st of a new month landing on a Sunday set up perfectly to get month 48 in the books. As they did last week, Dan, Kent and Pat met at Centennial beach. A few things differed from last week, though. Big Red, Pat's Mad River canoe made a rare appearance and JD showed up for a 2nd trip (always encouraging when someone is willing to participate again with the Duper boys). The biggest news of the day was the first time appearance of Rick....a Duper virgin as it were. </div><div></div><br /><div>Sensing that there may be something "special" about to happen, Rick nervously asked if there was some sort of initiation or hazing. Any regular reader of this blog is well aware that there most certainly is an initiation that must be administered and that the details of such initiation must never be disclosed in this blog. Rick of course was no stranger to bizarre initiation rights having been part of the airline industry during the sex and drug hey day of the early '70's. Like all first timers who experience their maiden Duper trip, Rick appeared to enjoy everything about the trip, including the secretive right of passage. When asked how the initiation went, Rick exclaimed "it was not too bad, but my pants got a little wet!" That's what all first timers say, Rick.</div><div> </div><div></div><div>Pictured: JD (appearing to be stating "you try that initiation BS on me again I'll shove this paddle where the sun don't shine"), 2 random shots of Kent, Pat and JD and finally Rick, checking to see if everything was ok after the Duper boys had "welcomed" him to the club.</div><div></div><div>Double click on any photo for a closer look.</div></div></div></div>Kayak Man Danhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16335537391414889980noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2372582168627083690.post-59900036443942019012009-11-01T20:00:00.004-05:002009-11-01T20:43:32.277-05:00Oct 2009 - month 47...the fright float<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_Z6fiFrDxR-g/Su43ugw-hUI/AAAAAAAAAtg/oNyjIGDeEDw/s1600-h/kayak+102509+b.jpg"><img style="MARGIN: 0px 10px 10px 0px; WIDTH: 320px; FLOAT: left; HEIGHT: 194px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5399314275472672066" border="0" alt="" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_Z6fiFrDxR-g/Su43ugw-hUI/AAAAAAAAAtg/oNyjIGDeEDw/s320/kayak+102509+b.jpg" /></a><br /><div><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_Z6fiFrDxR-g/Su43uWSZWmI/AAAAAAAAAtY/kzWBiOvVA2U/s1600-h/IMG_0877.jpg"><img style="MARGIN: 0px 10px 10px 0px; WIDTH: 282px; FLOAT: left; HEIGHT: 320px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5399314272660052578" border="0" alt="" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_Z6fiFrDxR-g/Su43uWSZWmI/AAAAAAAAAtY/kzWBiOvVA2U/s320/IMG_0877.jpg" /></a><br /><br /><div><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_Z6fiFrDxR-g/Su43uMYpLiI/AAAAAAAAAtQ/qC_AFpmx-kU/s1600-h/IMG_0874.jpg"><img style="MARGIN: 0px 10px 10px 0px; WIDTH: 320px; FLOAT: left; HEIGHT: 238px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5399314270001901090" border="0" alt="" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_Z6fiFrDxR-g/Su43uMYpLiI/AAAAAAAAAtQ/qC_AFpmx-kU/s320/IMG_0874.jpg" /></a><br /><br /><br /><div><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_Z6fiFrDxR-g/Su43tmuXWPI/AAAAAAAAAtI/0AiT5SQljbs/s1600-h/IMG_0875.jpg"><img style="MARGIN: 0px 10px 10px 0px; WIDTH: 320px; FLOAT: left; HEIGHT: 240px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5399314259892459762" border="0" alt="" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_Z6fiFrDxR-g/Su43tmuXWPI/AAAAAAAAAtI/0AiT5SQljbs/s320/IMG_0875.jpg" /></a><br /><br /><br /><br /><div>It has been a few months since the blog has been updated but rest assured, we have continued the streak throughout the summer. I lacked inspiration but will try to keep it updated as trips are taken.</div><div> </div><div></div><div></div><div>Due to the rain that we got on approximately 20 of the 31 days in October, the last full weekend in October set up nicely for a little Halloween float. Kent, Pat, Dan and Mike put in at Centennial beach and paddled (if you can call it that) down to Ring road. We attracted quite a crowd as Pat and Dan struggled to put Kent's skirt on Dan's yak. Nothing like looking like you know what you are doing while a crowd watches. Once we figured out the square peg / round hole errors of our way, we donned the masks and headed down river. As always, the crowd was quite receptive to monsters yaking on the Duper.</div><div> </div><div></div><div>Once out of town, the real beauty of having paddling pals to share some quality river time comes to life. As we sucked on our beers we shared stories and tales that can only truly be appreciated on the river. I swear at one point I thought Mike and Kent were going to pull over and do a Deliverance dance right on the shore. "Squeal like a pig, bro!" Talking of hot, searing meat while fondly looking at the beautiful fall foliage, Mike swore he was so relaxed that he would be able to sleep for a week if he were able to enjoy a little quality "alone" time, if you know what I mean!!</div><div> </div><div></div><div></div><div>While Kent and Dan had completed month 47 earlier in the month, Pat needed this end of the month trip to continue his streak. I CAN validate that he was on the river and in a kayak, I can NOT confirm that Pat actually paddled at any point during the trip. Many times during the trip he leaned back as far as he could as if trying to put his head in Dan's lap, all along singing a song about getting an early morning beer buzz on. </div><div> </div><div>We all acknowledge this probably was the best trip of the year.</div></div></div></div>Kayak Man Danhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16335537391414889980noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2372582168627083690.post-25728148594811964822009-05-08T21:38:00.016-04:002009-05-15T22:16:02.858-04:00Vermillion River Whitewater Rafting - Streak month 42<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_Z6fiFrDxR-g/Sg4c38kfDKI/AAAAAAAAAtA/3WJIQiMWbTM/s1600-h/Kayaking+"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5336234355958156450" style="FLOAT: left; MARGIN: 0px 10px 10px 0px; WIDTH: 320px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 240px" alt="" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_Z6fiFrDxR-g/Sg4c38kfDKI/AAAAAAAAAtA/3WJIQiMWbTM/s320/Kayaking+%2709-22.jpg" border="0" /></a><br /><br /><div><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_Z6fiFrDxR-g/Sg4c3x0bBlI/AAAAAAAAAs4/Xj7ksM5a8C4/s1600-h/Kayaking+"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5336234353072211538" style="FLOAT: left; MARGIN: 0px 10px 10px 0px; WIDTH: 320px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 240px" alt="" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_Z6fiFrDxR-g/Sg4c3x0bBlI/AAAAAAAAAs4/Xj7ksM5a8C4/s320/Kayaking+%2709-25.jpg" border="0" /></a><br /><br /><br /><div><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_Z6fiFrDxR-g/Sg4c3qQ5FTI/AAAAAAAAAsw/roQI-GgdRWw/s1600-h/Kayaking+"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5336234351044138290" style="FLOAT: left; MARGIN: 0px 10px 10px 0px; WIDTH: 320px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 240px" alt="" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_Z6fiFrDxR-g/Sg4c3qQ5FTI/AAAAAAAAAsw/roQI-GgdRWw/s320/Kayaking+%2709-11.jpg" border="0" /></a><br /><br /><br /><br /><div>Date: 5/2/09. Vermillion River Gauge 5.25. Air Temp 65 and sunny. Dan, Kent and Cole.<br /></div><br /><br /><div>Due to the recent rains, the initial plan was to hit the Shorewood rapids but as Dan and Kent sat around the smoker (practice run for the big rib cook-off Memorial Day weekend), the topic of rafting the Vermillion came up. A phone call or 2 and Dan and Kent and their sons were set to hit the rapids. One problem, though. What sounded like a good idea to Steven at 4:00 Saturday afternoon didn't sound so good at 7:00 AM Sunday. Despite his dad's "You can sleep anytime" advice, Steven passed on this most excellent adventure. He will learn on his own that life is short and you need to do as much living as possible when you have the opportunity. </div><div> </div><div>The weather was great: a slight breeze and sunny skies. A perfect day for a float....oh yeah, we were rafting the rapids, not floatin' the Dupe. More than once the sub 50 degree water smacked us upside the head and took our breath's away. Not to mention the effect the frigid water had on the nether regions. All men are aware of the cold water, scared turtle, shrinkage syndrome. I <em>wish </em>I had only experienced shrinkage, at one point I swear I had a mangina!! Thankfully the warm sun and breeze eliminated this in short order and all in all we we all very comfortable.</div><div></div><div></div><br /><div>Although not the Colorado nor even the Smoky Mountains (my only previous rafting experience), the Vermillion has some nice water action and is only 1.5 hours away. Many of the rapids were comparable to Seven Bridges or down town Naperville as far as the river action was concerned, but the length of the action was much longer than the 2 local spots. What really makes this trip is the Wildcat and the Narrows sections. These are described as legitimate class 3 rapids (on a 6 point scale). I would not take my recreational kayak on these sections.</div><div></div><div></div><br /><div>As we approached the Wildcat (not sure we were aware that we were approaching the Wildcat) the 3 of us debated if we should go to the left or the right of the big boulder. I suggested left and Kent and Cole seemed to agree. As the raft plunged 90 degrees into the hole and Kent came flying forward off the back of the raft, we all realized that we were indeed at the Wildcat and that we had done the exact opposite of the recommended route, which was to stay to the right. I am not quite sure how we got out of the hole but when we did the boat was filled half way with water and Asian carp were jumping all around the raft. It was quite a sensory overload all within a few seconds. The going over the side of cliff feeling followed by the water closing in around you followed by these crazy 30 inch fish nearly jumping into the raft. We pulled off to the side to empty the raft and our bladders, as well as to have as snack break. As we relaxed we looked back upon the Wildcat and relived the 10 second adrenaline rush that we had just experienced.</div><div></div><br /><div>While the Wildcat may have been more wild, it was a very short experience. The Narrows consisted of 10 to 12 "waves" that provided a much more prolonged ride. At one point I found myself thrown onto my knees on the floor of the raft with my head between Cole's knees, dangerously close to "little" Cole, if you know what I mean! Again, the water rushed in and the boat was filled with water. As we regained our seats, the Asian carp again started jumping. One came right at Cole which inspired him to stand up and scream like a little school girl. At about the same time one jumped right at the boat and I had to deflect it with the back of my hand to keep it out of the raft. Another thrilling experience that I can not believe is so close to home.</div><div></div><br /><div>We wrapped up this excellent little adventure with a trip to the Cajun connection for a nice lunch served by Captain Ron, who is quite a character. "Ever been to a restaurant?" he asked. "Yes" we replied...."No you haven't!!" he exclaimed with glee. I am sure we will make this trip again and a stop at the Cajun Connection will be part of the plans.</div><br /><div></div><br /><div></div></div></div>Kayak Man Danhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16335537391414889980noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2372582168627083690.post-74569461922888925502009-04-11T08:53:00.005-04:002009-04-19T10:16:34.278-04:00Good Friday - month 41....another streak?<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_Z6fiFrDxR-g/SeCT1lN2oZI/AAAAAAAAAsI/ngT-88wUqyY/s1600-h/IMG_0071.JPG"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5323417308284494226" style="WIDTH: 320px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 240px" alt="" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_Z6fiFrDxR-g/SeCT1lN2oZI/AAAAAAAAAsI/ngT-88wUqyY/s320/IMG_0071.JPG" border="0" /></a><br /><br /><div><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_Z6fiFrDxR-g/SeCT167sKhI/AAAAAAAAAsQ/en8sB5DuS1A/s1600-h/IMG_0074.JPG"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5323417314113890834" style="WIDTH: 320px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 240px" alt="" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_Z6fiFrDxR-g/SeCT167sKhI/AAAAAAAAAsQ/en8sB5DuS1A/s320/IMG_0074.JPG" border="0" /></a><br /><br /><br /><div>Date: 4/10/09, Gauge: 5.60 Air Temp: 48 and very windy.</div><div></div><br /><div>Could another streak be born? While Pat and Dan completed consecutive month number 41 the previous weekend with an Arbor Ridge to Royce Rd run, Kent was still looking to continue his streak. What better day than Good Friday to take a float and reflect upon the impending joy that Easter Sunday will bring? Although the grand plans were set in place on Thursday for a flotilla of 4 to enjoy what could become another annual designated float day, these plans petered out and only Kent and Dan participated. While Jim's excuse was he needed to do tax returns (nice excuse for an accountant 5 days before the tax deadline), Pat's stumbling, mumbling bailout seemed to have a little less legitimacy.....did I hear a whip in the background?</div><div></div><br /><div>The Good Friday trip was uneventful although as you can see from the picture, there is a serious construction project under way at 75th. Although we passed with no issues this time, this could present problems in the future. Rumor has it the construction is for a bike path underpass. How ironic is it that providing an improvement for one hobby can adversely affect (even if only temporary) another hobby?</div><div> </div><div>A quick comment regarding months 39 and 40. Not documented here in the blog but Dan, Pat and Kent all made trips in both months. Perry P. joined Dan and Kent on one trip and Dan and Pat encounted an impassable pedestrian bridge at 63rd. A quick trespass onto Seven Bridges golf course and we were off again. When advised of this blockage, Kent seemed quite disappointed we did not risk our own health and safety to work as DNR employees and remove said obstacle. Is this same guy who as our April float was coming to an end said "You are wearing your water boots, aren't you?"so that he did not have to step into the water to get out of the yak.</div><div> </div><div></div></div>Kayak Man Danhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16335537391414889980noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2372582168627083690.post-18740707685776336632009-01-24T09:53:00.010-05:002009-02-07T17:57:27.547-05:00Months 36, 37 and 38.....4th annual New Years Day<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_Z6fiFrDxR-g/SXs96YgH0JI/AAAAAAAAAqs/_vCa0E_TIho/s1600-h/kayaking+0408+143.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5294893860123037842" style="WIDTH: 320px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 240px" alt="" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_Z6fiFrDxR-g/SXs96YgH0JI/AAAAAAAAAqs/_vCa0E_TIho/s320/kayaking+0408+143.jpg" border="0" /></a><br /><div><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_Z6fiFrDxR-g/SXs96WZAu0I/AAAAAAAAAqk/IbPAQ0yCipQ/s1600-h/DCFC0001+(2).jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5294893859556342594" style="WIDTH: 320px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 240px" alt="" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_Z6fiFrDxR-g/SXs96WZAu0I/AAAAAAAAAqk/IbPAQ0yCipQ/s320/DCFC0001+(2).jpg" border="0" /></a><br /><br /><div><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_Z6fiFrDxR-g/SXs9501YnhI/AAAAAAAAAqc/ny57Zvztjo4/s1600-h/IMG_0057.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5294893850548542994" style="WIDTH: 320px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 180px" alt="" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_Z6fiFrDxR-g/SXs9501YnhI/AAAAAAAAAqc/ny57Zvztjo4/s320/IMG_0057.jpg" border="0" /></a><br /><div><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_Z6fiFrDxR-g/SXs95hHbvPI/AAAAAAAAAqU/SfJ7pf0aazk/s1600-h/DCFC0011+(2).jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5294893845255535858" style="WIDTH: 320px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 240px" alt="" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_Z6fiFrDxR-g/SXs95hHbvPI/AAAAAAAAAqU/SfJ7pf0aazk/s320/DCFC0011+(2).jpg" border="0" /></a> I have been a little lax in my updating of the blog. Somewhat inspired by the New Year (although not a big fan of the New Year's resolution) I have updated my 2 other delinquent blogs so I felt obligated to get this one back on track. Please note that the consecutive kayaking streak is in no way affected by the author's lack of discipline to continue documentation of said streak via a monthly bog entry. If however, someone out there is monitoring the legitimacy of the streak, the pictures I have chosen to display within this entry are all time and date stamped as to when they were taken, therefore providing "proof." I know, who am I kidding? There are about 3 people that read this nonsense.</div><div></div><div></div><div></div><div>Take a look at picture 1, or has I like to refer to it as Big Foot's great adventure. The core Duper boys (Pat, Kent and I) made up the group to get number 36 in the books. Kent, equipped with hand warmers and brand new insulated, waterproof boots, thought he was all set for the coming months of winter kayaking. One problem, Big Foot. You need to actually be able to get your feet in your boat in order to paddle effectively. Kent's solution to not being able to get in his kayak on land was to slide down the hill and somehow miraculously get himself in the boat as he plummeted into the 33 degree water. After some convincing, he did not take this approach. With the assistance of Dan and Pat surrounding his boat with theirs, they managed to contort Kent's legs into his boat (nearly capsizing more than once). Kent's excruciating pain in his legs caused us to shorten the trip but #36 was in the books.</div><div></div><div></div><div></div><div>Picture 2 took place on our 2nd annual Santa trip a week before Christmas. Kent, sporting antlers, unfortunately poses for pictures better than he takes them and a good shot of Santa does not exist.</div><div></div><div></div><div></div><div>Pictures 3 and 4 are of Pat, Jim M. and Dan on the fourth annual New Year's day float. Notice how Jim is electing to also do the toboggan slide into the water technique contemplated by Kent above. Everyone successfully managed to stay dry and enjoy the float.</div><div></div><div>Here is one last tidbit to tie the delinquency of the blog entries with the toboggan slide entrance theme photographically captured above. At some point over the last 3 months (I should have written an entry!) Dan and Pat went to do the Arboretum run, despite Kent's previous warnings of a major portage. Knowing that only Kent would appreciate the insanity of it all, Dan left him the following voicemail to let him know we were out on the Duper: "It's cold, windy and raining.....KAYAAAAKKER!!!!"</div><div></div><div></div><div>The Arboretum was beautiful as always and the major construction portage at I-88 was gone so despite the weather all seemed good. Good, until we hit the portage. We both successfully climbed up the 3 foot bank and managed to stay dry. However, we had to get back in. Pat elected the "straddle the downed tree in the water" technique while Dan went the toboggan slide route. Pat anxiously anticipated Dan's complete submersion into the frigid Duper as he slid down the embankment. Dan held his breathe and began the descent. The front of the boat plunged deep under the water, causing Dan to instinctively put his hand down to steady himself, however, there was nothing to steady himself on and the paddle he was holding pulled his arm elbow deep into the water. Pissed pants and soggy arm aside, Dan completed what is now known as a "Kenterheide" (Kent inspired toboggan slide followed by a Muckerjheide partial dunk in the Duper).</div><div></div><div></div><div></div><div>We are into another frigid January weekend and we can only hope that sometime before 2/28 we will be able to get back out there. Here's to the upcoming 4th consecutive year, boys.<br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /></div><div></div></div></div>Kayak Man Danhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16335537391414889980noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2372582168627083690.post-63516576597424517272008-10-05T18:21:00.010-04:002008-11-05T21:44:39.053-05:00#35 Virgin waters and Happy Halloween!!!<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_Z6fiFrDxR-g/SQxMu_2CnBI/AAAAAAAAAmI/Jw4Mx98qWg4/s1600-h/kayaking+0408+135.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5263666434785057810" style="WIDTH: 320px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 207px" alt="" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_Z6fiFrDxR-g/SQxMu_2CnBI/AAAAAAAAAmI/Jw4Mx98qWg4/s320/kayaking+0408+135.jpg" border="0" /></a><br /><div><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_Z6fiFrDxR-g/SQxMuoU4j3I/AAAAAAAAAmA/Ude0ujl3lkE/s1600-h/kayaking+0408+136.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5263666428471971698" style="WIDTH: 310px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 320px" alt="" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_Z6fiFrDxR-g/SQxMuoU4j3I/AAAAAAAAAmA/Ude0ujl3lkE/s320/kayaking+0408+136.jpg" border="0" /></a><br /><br /><div>It was about 2 years ago when Dan and Kent took a trip on the West branch and they ran out of river (see pictures and story "July 8, 2007 Hot, sunny and non existent" <a href="http://kayakman30.blogspot.com/2007/07/july-8-2007-hot-sunny-and-low.html">http://kayakman30.blogspot.com/2007/07/july-8-2007-hot-sunny-and-low.html</a>July 2007 ". </div><div></div><br /><div>Ensured the river was again flowing they ventured out to Winfield and used the canoe launch on Beecher St. (previously only used once prior by Dan and Pat way before the streak started and using a borrowed canoe). Total distance from Beecher st. to Mach road is 4.33 miles. Although the water was not real high or fast,we could see the improvements that were made to create a more interesting paddling experience. We are looking forward to making this run with some better water to battle the rapids.</div><div></div><br /><div>Kent and Dan made a few additional trips in October, all looking for the elusive fall color extravaganza. Mr. Killjoy Perry, would have nothing of it. "The trees along a river are typically not hardwoods and therefore will not produce the colors that you so long to see". Although this may provide an explanation as to why we are always disappointed by the lack of an autumnal splash of color, we will continue to search for a stretch of river that provides the sensory satisfaction that we so desire.</div><div></div><br /><div>Now for the pictures....the weekend before Halloween Kent and I did the downtown Naperville route. Inspired by the Santa float from a year ago, Dan donned a scary mask. This got multiple interesting comments and reaction, often responded to by Kent with "That's what happens when plastic surgery goes bad".</div><div></div><br /><div>Editors note: The no mention of Pat has more to do with his lack of participation than any sort of a snub. As in a previous entry, Pat claims to have completed an unvalidated lake paddle during October to keep his string alive. The title of Duper Boy is one not given out easily and is earned by paddling on the DuPage river. The board of directors may need to hold a special meeting to review the case.</div></div>Kayak Man Danhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16335537391414889980noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2372582168627083690.post-62457127250475779582008-10-05T09:35:00.009-04:002008-10-05T18:21:02.962-04:00Pray for rain.....NO more rain!!! (month 34)<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_Z6fiFrDxR-g/SOk7v3HLBzI/AAAAAAAAAeM/O3Zey1ATs0M/s1600-h/kayaking+0408+092.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5253796133738317618" style="CURSOR: hand" alt="" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_Z6fiFrDxR-g/SOk7v3HLBzI/AAAAAAAAAeM/O3Zey1ATs0M/s320/kayaking+0408+092.jpg" border="0" /></a><br /><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_Z6fiFrDxR-g/SOk7wI6LyiI/AAAAAAAAAeU/ln6CqFB3aJ4/s1600-h/kayaking+0408+095.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5253796138515679778" style="CURSOR: hand" alt="" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_Z6fiFrDxR-g/SOk7wI6LyiI/AAAAAAAAAeU/ln6CqFB3aJ4/s320/kayaking+0408+095.jpg" border="0" /></a><br /><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_Z6fiFrDxR-g/SOk7wsJybYI/AAAAAAAAAec/oO2JnjqFOlo/s1600-h/kayaking+0408+109.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5253796147976367490" style="CURSOR: hand" alt="" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_Z6fiFrDxR-g/SOk7wsJybYI/AAAAAAAAAec/oO2JnjqFOlo/s320/kayaking+0408+109.jpg" border="0" /></a><br /><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_Z6fiFrDxR-g/SOk7wnR9HlI/AAAAAAAAAek/uxJ_YV09hPk/s1600-h/kayaking+0408+102.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5253796146668445266" style="CURSOR: hand" alt="" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_Z6fiFrDxR-g/SOk7wnR9HlI/AAAAAAAAAek/uxJ_YV09hPk/s320/kayaking+0408+102.jpg" border="0" /></a><br /><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_Z6fiFrDxR-g/SOk7w9kvMRI/AAAAAAAAAes/Yrxd-9m0r58/s1600-h/kayaking+0408+106.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5253796152652804370" style="CURSOR: hand" alt="" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_Z6fiFrDxR-g/SOk7w9kvMRI/AAAAAAAAAes/Yrxd-9m0r58/s320/kayaking+0408+106.jpg" border="0" /></a><br /><div>Consecutive month 34 saw the August drought continue and the rivers were at an almost impassible level. Would our streak be in danger? Of course not but we need some drama every once in awhile. In the 1st week of September we finally got a nice rain mid week which kept the river high enough to warrant a trip down to Shorewood (picture 1) with Dan, Pat and Kent. Pat got to experience the "tasty waves" for the first time that makes the trip worthwhile.</div><div></div><br /><div>All that praying for rain backfired the next weekend as the Chicago area got trenched with double digit rain totals over the weekend of the 14th. The "normal" level of the Naperville gauge is around 5 feet and the river swelled to over 12 feet!! Kent and an unnamed partner (I hope you used protection) took a trip down the east branch with the river at a dangerously high level. Dan and Mark, taking on the role of civil servants, paddled through the flooded Community park (picture 2) to rescue a pitching machine that was in danger of being ruined by the flood. As the waters finally got down to a manageable level over the next weekend, Dan and Pat did the Centennial beach to 95th street run, completing it in just over an hour (picture 3, big tree in Naperville). The next day, Paul (a Duper virgin) and Cole took one tandem (picture 5), Dan and Perry took the other tandem and Kent went solo (just like Fridays when Tracy is at work!!). This trip was the same as the day before except we went the additional distance down to Knoch Knolls park where we enjoyed smoked salmon prepared by Dan (picture 4, caught the previous Monday).</div>Kayak Man Danhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16335537391414889980noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2372582168627083690.post-84315755779840002722008-09-13T09:31:00.005-04:002008-09-13T10:04:20.621-04:00Florida,drougnt....consecutive month 33<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_Z6fiFrDxR-g/SMvHo4BhZOI/AAAAAAAAAck/xIjXsfoIrhk/s1600-h/kayaking+0408+089.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5245505696050537698" style="FLOAT: right; MARGIN: 0px 0px 10px 10px; CURSOR: hand" alt="" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_Z6fiFrDxR-g/SMvHo4BhZOI/AAAAAAAAAck/xIjXsfoIrhk/s320/kayaking+0408+089.jpg" border="0" /></a><br /><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_Z6fiFrDxR-g/SMvHpM6TGUI/AAAAAAAAAcs/RWnMuMet8wE/s1600-h/kayaking+0408+091.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5245505701657385282" style="FLOAT: right; MARGIN: 0px 0px 10px 10px; CURSOR: hand" alt="" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_Z6fiFrDxR-g/SMvHpM6TGUI/AAAAAAAAAcs/RWnMuMet8wE/s320/kayaking+0408+091.jpg" border="0" /></a><br /><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_Z6fiFrDxR-g/SMvHpeTqhrI/AAAAAAAAAc0/spqLmbxAnfs/s1600-h/kayaking+0408+090.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5245505706327180978" style="FLOAT: right; MARGIN: 0px 0px 10px 10px; CURSOR: hand" alt="" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_Z6fiFrDxR-g/SMvHpeTqhrI/AAAAAAAAAc0/spqLmbxAnfs/s320/kayaking+0408+090.jpg" border="0" /></a><br /><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_Z6fiFrDxR-g/SMvHppOab5I/AAAAAAAAAc8/k93B_9aMMIY/s1600-h/kayaking+0408+088.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5245505709257944978" style="FLOAT: right; MARGIN: 0px 0px 10px 10px; CURSOR: hand" alt="" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_Z6fiFrDxR-g/SMvHppOab5I/AAAAAAAAAc8/k93B_9aMMIY/s320/kayaking+0408+088.jpg" border="0" /></a><br /><div>A little delinquent on the updates but better late than never, right? In August Dan and the family headed south to beautiful Marco Island. The condo we stayed at had free kayaks and sailboats for anyone that was staying there. Needless to say, we took advantage of both. The three of us took out a tandem and a solo ocean kayak. Both Steven and Lisa got a little <span class="blsp-spelling-corrected" id="SPELLING_ERROR_0">queasy</span> but I though thought it was great, the waves crashing over the bow. It was fun and qualified for month 33.<br /><br />The next weekend, Kent and Dan (despite a month with no rain) headed unto the East Branch. Luckily Dan's shortened route suggestion turned out to be a godsend. We got stuck so many times on what is almost always a pure joy of a trip that the struggles took away from the enjoyment. Although the river conditions were not ideal, it is always fun to spend some time with Kent. Maybe we should have gone bike riding!!!</div><div> </div><div>Pictures: The sailboat Steven and I went on, ocean kayaks we used, Steven with a fish, and Mr. Pelican who was always looking fro a free meal when we fished on the pier.</div>Kayak Man Danhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16335537391414889980noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2372582168627083690.post-498479303968115732008-07-25T23:52:00.004-04:002008-07-26T00:23:50.440-04:00KaaaaYAAKER!!!!!!!<div>.....the familiar greeting from Kent came across my cell phone...."Did I want to go for a trip down the Dupe?" Of course the answer is always "yes", its just a matter of previous plans and if all the "<span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_0">honeydos</span>" have been completed. With a recent rain the river was up and we put in at old reliable...Community Park. Pat had borrowed my solo 'yak for a little family trip so it was back to the <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_1">good'ole</span> times....Dan and Kent cuddled up in the tandem. You know the phrase, "It's better on top"? Well I have always prescribed to the "It's better in the back" when it comes to tandem kayaking but Kent begged to be the captain and we reversed roles. At least we didn't have to experience the loneliness of a<strong><em> <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_2">masturyak</span></em></strong>. Check out my entry in the Urban Dictionary. Maybe it will make it to Webster's sometime.</div><br /><div></div><div><a href="http://www.urbandictionary.com/confirm.php?code=0ae8728ecf">http://www.urbandictionary.com/confirm.php?code=0ae8728ecf</a></div><div> </div><div>The rapids were good and as always we had a good time. We did explore back into the Seven Bridges lakes prior to our takeout at the condos.</div><div> </div><div>The previous week Lisa and I did this same route and she seemed to really enjoy it. Will she become an outdoors women after all? Probably not but I love her just the same. We need to get the ladies out again for a couple's trip.</div>Kayak Man Danhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16335537391414889980noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2372582168627083690.post-46952148350128637982008-07-10T10:20:00.011-04:002008-12-09T00:09:26.227-05:00Months 31 and 32 in the books<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_Z6fiFrDxR-g/SHkZoMOWntI/AAAAAAAAAZ4/hsdL8-Ioj9k/s1600-h/kayaking+0408+060.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5222233421179690706" style="CURSOR: hand" alt="" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_Z6fiFrDxR-g/SHkZoMOWntI/AAAAAAAAAZ4/hsdL8-Ioj9k/s320/kayaking+0408+060.jpg" border="0" /></a><br /><div><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_Z6fiFrDxR-g/SHkZfgDciCI/AAAAAAAAAZw/PL3yoGwb_h4/s1600-h/kayaking+0408+064.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5222233271883827234" style="CURSOR: hand" alt="" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_Z6fiFrDxR-g/SHkZfgDciCI/AAAAAAAAAZw/PL3yoGwb_h4/s320/kayaking+0408+064.jpg" border="0" /></a><br /><br /><div><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_Z6fiFrDxR-g/SHkZU2ZzZuI/AAAAAAAAAZo/O6jSaO4WCgE/s1600-h/kayaking+0408+085.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5222233088904619746" style="CURSOR: hand" alt="" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_Z6fiFrDxR-g/SHkZU2ZzZuI/AAAAAAAAAZo/O6jSaO4WCgE/s320/kayaking+0408+085.jpg" border="0" /></a><br /><br /><br /><div><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_Z6fiFrDxR-g/SHkZDRerYlI/AAAAAAAAAZg/D1C6HqmgDeE/s1600-h/kayaking+0408+078.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5222232786935177810" style="CURSOR: hand" alt="" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_Z6fiFrDxR-g/SHkZDRerYlI/AAAAAAAAAZg/D1C6HqmgDeE/s320/kayaking+0408+078.jpg" border="0" /></a><br /><br /><br /><br /><div><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_Z6fiFrDxR-g/SHkYzuEvvFI/AAAAAAAAAZY/IwrRFvpNqus/s1600-h/kayaking+0408+087.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5222232519733132370" style="CURSOR: hand" alt="" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_Z6fiFrDxR-g/SHkYzuEvvFI/AAAAAAAAAZY/IwrRFvpNqus/s320/kayaking+0408+087.jpg" border="0" /></a><br /><div><div><div><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_Z6fiFrDxR-g/SHYblZZaZRI/AAAAAAAAAYg/n74VudX6hNI/s1600-h/kayaking+0408+060.jpg"></a>The first weekend in June Dan participated in a river sweep in Community Park. Quite a good crowd showed up and we took a lot of crap out of the river. Not only did it get month 31 completed it was a nice community service project. </div><div></div><div></div><div>In Mid June we made our annual trip to Door County. Jim M., Pat, Tom and Dan took an extended trip around Green Bay. At one point we saw numerous large carp swimming in the shallows. Jim's shorts tightened as he gazed into the glistening water and whispered slowly of his desire to plunge an arrow deep into the side of one of God's creatures. </div><div> </div><div>Double click on the 2nd picture of a native tepee built by the ancient tribe of Nicolet warriors. I am not sure why Pat is on his knees in front of Jim but Jim sure seems interested in what (or who) is going down!! Maybe he was still thinking of the Pirate fantasy / lovegame he had just told us about. </div><div></div><div></div><br /><div>On July 5th (month 32) we had our largest group of kayaks venturing down the Duper as well as the 1st ever 4 brothers trip. Larry, Ben, Pat, Jim M. and Dan were in solo yaks and Tom and Joe were in the tandem. That's 6 kayaks and 7 people. Speaking of tightening shorts, everyone speculated I was in heaven with such a large group. The water level was very low but we only got stuck a few times. Some wildlife highlights for the newbies were a beaver/gopher swimming on the side of the river, multiple fish sitings and a large deer walking in the river about 75 yards ahead of us.</div><div> </div><div></div><div>A closer inspection of picture 3 and you may notice that Ben is <strong><em>in</em></strong> the Duper not <strong><em>on</em></strong> the Duper. A little miscalculation under a fallen tree and over he went. Once back in the boat Ben declared: "That's the first time I have ever been dumped out of anything". Not missing a beat, Uncle Tom questioned his nephew: "How'd that work out for you?". This gave us all a good chuckle. The last 2 pictures are of the group (less the author/ photographer). It was a good trip boys. </div><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div>Kayak Man Danhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16335537391414889980noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2372582168627083690.post-49663066285210965562008-05-26T19:09:00.003-04:002008-12-09T00:09:26.588-05:00Memorial Day 2008 -<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_Z6fiFrDxR-g/SDtDhm0wUTI/AAAAAAAAAX4/VMwTmwSkrS8/s1600-h/kayaking+0408+050.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5204828038993301810" style="CURSOR: hand" alt="" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_Z6fiFrDxR-g/SDtDhm0wUTI/AAAAAAAAAX4/VMwTmwSkrS8/s320/kayaking+0408+050.jpg" border="0" /></a><br /><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_Z6fiFrDxR-g/SDtDiW0wUUI/AAAAAAAAAYA/YVTuv_Fq27M/s1600-h/kayaking+0408+048.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5204828051878203714" style="CURSOR: hand" alt="" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_Z6fiFrDxR-g/SDtDiW0wUUI/AAAAAAAAAYA/YVTuv_Fq27M/s320/kayaking+0408+048.jpg" border="0" /></a><br /><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_Z6fiFrDxR-g/SDtDim0wUVI/AAAAAAAAAYI/tDb1DUE6NqQ/s1600-h/kayaking+0408+032.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5204828056173171026" style="CURSOR: hand" alt="" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_Z6fiFrDxR-g/SDtDim0wUVI/AAAAAAAAAYI/tDb1DUE6NqQ/s320/kayaking+0408+032.jpg" border="0" /></a><br /><div>Memorial Day 2008 (could a consecutive streak be started?) and Kent, Pat and Dan headed out for a familiar trip with a twist. We put in at the familiar Hidden Lake location but this time to the north of the bridge (see 3rd picture). The recent storms from the night before gave us a nice little moving water start under the bridge. What a way to honor our soldiers with a trip on the Duper.</div><div> </div><div> </div><div>Thru the Arboretum we had a couple nice spots of moving water which always elevates the enjoyment. This enjoyment was temporarily capsized as we had a major portage around work at I-88. We were soon back on the river telling stories of great culinary masterpieces, bar tending wizardry and dreams of a Deliverance-like trip that seems to never come to fruition.</div><div>All of this culminated with the 7 Bridges whitewater (see pictures 1 and 2...trying some new techniques). We also had a new take out spot, paddling up stream at Hobson back into the apartments / townhouse areas new the golf course. I am pretty sure this is trespassing but it never seems too bother the others. Next week June is here and month 31 should be accomplished soon.</div><div> </div><div>As always, double click on pictures for a larger view.</div>Kayak Man Danhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16335537391414889980noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2372582168627083690.post-19933389005696608162008-05-15T21:27:00.003-04:002008-12-09T00:09:27.110-05:00You're going yaking and you'll like it!!!<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_Z6fiFrDxR-g/SCzklSD4LoI/AAAAAAAAAXg/S58I1gs9eJI/s1600-h/kayaking+0408+017.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5200782998860476034" style="FLOAT: left; MARGIN: 0px 10px 10px 0px; CURSOR: hand" alt="" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_Z6fiFrDxR-g/SCzklSD4LoI/AAAAAAAAAXg/S58I1gs9eJI/s320/kayaking+0408+017.jpg" border="0" /></a><br /><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_Z6fiFrDxR-g/SCzklyD4LpI/AAAAAAAAAXo/7xKOCBZYd_4/s1600-h/kayaking+0408+019.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5200783007450410642" style="FLOAT: left; MARGIN: 0px 10px 10px 0px; CURSOR: hand" alt="" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_Z6fiFrDxR-g/SCzklyD4LpI/AAAAAAAAAXo/7xKOCBZYd_4/s320/kayaking+0408+019.jpg" border="0" /></a><br /><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_Z6fiFrDxR-g/SCzkmCD4LqI/AAAAAAAAAXw/AdNKweZUROU/s1600-h/kayaking+0408+024.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5200783011745377954" style="FLOAT: left; MARGIN: 0px 10px 10px 0px; CURSOR: hand" alt="" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_Z6fiFrDxR-g/SCzkmCD4LqI/AAAAAAAAAXw/AdNKweZUROU/s320/kayaking+0408+024.jpg" border="0" /></a> A father and son outing for Kent and Cole as the 3 of us headed down to Shorewood for some "whitewater" action. This is the 3rd time I have done this section. The 1st time I felt like I was going down class IV rapids...pure exhilaration. The 2nd time the water was low and it was not much more than the "action" in downtown Naperville. This trip was somewhere in the middle. As a reference point, the Shorewood guage was at 3.25 feet. Anything less than that and it is not worth the trip, anything above it would be worth the trip.<br /><br /><br />This also marked the Duper boys' 30th consecutive month of kayaking. Are you impressed? The 3 pictures are a posed pre-trip picture taken by a 4 toothed woman, Kent and Cole working hard (or hardly working) and some members of the kayak club working the river. Note: Double click on the pictures for a larger view. The 2nd one you will be able to see Cole's amazed look as he gazes upon my pasty white shoulders. Keep your eyes in your head, boy, this meat is spoken for!Kayak Man Danhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16335537391414889980noreply@blogger.com0