Who needs a stick?

Right now I paddle 2-4 weekend days/month. However, the kids are getting older, and I want more time with them before they get so old that hanging out with dad is “not cool.” So I’ve made a resolution for the next year to “back off” from the number of “me” paddling trips per month, if it means spending more time on the water (any type) with the kids.

I’ve got my older daughter on her first river trip. It was in a tandem rec boat on the Hiawassee. She had a great time.

However, even in the tandem boat, the paddle is too large and shaft too thick for her to use.

Last week I bought a used Dancer XS. Very old school, but cheap enough to start taking out on flatwater and seeing how she likes it. If she’s hooked after a few outings, maybe a Fun 1 is in her future ….