A little bit about me...

Hi there everyone. I'd like to tell you a little bit about who I am and why I decided to establish this blog. For the better part of my adult life, my career goals have had something to do with the outdoors. Nature, its preservation, and its exploration, have always been some of my greatest passions. Earlier this year, I was blessed with the opportunity to work for a family-owned business that specializes in getting people outside and enjoying life to its fullest. The business is a kayak pro-shop called Penguin Paddlers, located in Redding, California (with a sister store in Rocklin, CA) and with easy access to some of the best kayaking and canoeing waters that North America has to offer. The owner is a very intelligent and motivated man with enough experience, knowlege, and expertise to put most others in the industry to shame. It's difficult to imagine a more rewarding job than what I have now, and the prospect of a future in the kayak industry is positively thrilling. I must admit that I still consider myself an amateur kayaker. However, working in an environment involving constant exposure to some of the most skilled paddlers in the world (who are always willing to share what they have learned) has drastically improved the learning curve. One of the greatest things about this sport is that you don't have to be a professional to enjoy it. It is good clean fun for anyone willing to give it a try.

This blog was designed to be a resource for those who may like to try kayaking or canoeing, particularly for the purposes of exploring and adventure seeking. But, it was also designed to help those who already enjoy the sport to learn more and have a good time during this learning process. What you will find here is a tasty blend of trip reports, gear reviews, personal anectdotes, cheesy jokes, and occasional rants about environmental and social issues. You'll discover, at times, that I very much like to joke and poke fun. While there is a time and place for humor, it is sometimes necessary to approach certain topics with the utmost sincerity and caution. I am not the ultimate authority on anything, just a fellow and finite human being with a little experience under my belt. So, please, understand that what I provide here is merely personal opinion, and not certified professional instruction.

With all that being said, I hope that what I have to offer brings a smile to your face, a chuckle to your belly, and another good reason to get outside and have fun!