Frustrating Start To Gulf Paddle

Departing last year from New Jersey to DC

Today was a no go for paddling. I don't usually let predictions of potentially bad weather stop me from going out, but this run had enough navigational issues that I figured I better think twice. So I sat it out and did some "housework" and catch up calls. Yesterday's very windy paddle started off fantastically.

Also from last year.

Monk, a guy who I met via email prior to the m2m (Miami to Maine) trip, joined me on the water at the Miami Beach Rowing Club. From there we paddled into the gusty SE wind which kept toying with our alas. After awhile Monk broke off to paddle home. It was awesome to finally meet him in person, and wonderful to have his company on the water. Heading south it seemed the wind was holding steady at 15 or more, effectively slowing me down so I ended up late at Deering Estates, where poor Robin Rorapaugh (NRDC support) was patiently waiting. From there it was off to more wind. The wind howled in my ears and spray lashed my face.

Something dark and big moved and caught my eye off to my right. The boat surged up in a startling manner-not like it was going to go over, but as if I had paddled over a bubble. Glancing down and to my left, I saw a giant sea turtle swimming between my ama and the canoe, his huge flippers and body creating much turbulance as he hastily sped away.

A sea turtle from the aquarium in Pt. Pleasant, NJ.