First Day on the Oru Beach Kayak-Fabulous!

Today I took my new kayak to a local lake for its first excursion.  I had practiced putting assembling it at home, inside the cottage.   I was so sore and tired after dismantling  it, that I didn't have the energy to attempt using it at the lake.  It will take a few times to break in and become less stiff.

Today, after spending the morning watering my pine and oak trees, I packed up a beach bag with a homemade  quesadilla for lunch, and headed to the water.  I reviewed the how to video on Youtube before I left.

  I placed my California Adventure Pass on the rearview mirror.  That way you don't have to pay for day use.  They are valid for one year.  I carried the lightweight kayak down to the water from my shaded parking spot. 

I unfolded the kayak, and began buckling the straps, and inserting the pieces.  An excited Asian man ran up to me.  "Do you want help?" he asked.  I accepted.  He was thrilled to see how all the pieces fit together.   This foldable kayak is a great  conversation starter.  He spoke very little English, but we were in sync.  I think he is from Korea.  I will have to ask him.

I explained a few of the details, and we worked quickly and easily together.  He had about five family members with him, all women.  They were very friendly and helpful.  One lady offered me an egg salad sandwich.  I thanked her, and took  half of one with me.  

The kayaking was a blast!  I was amazed at how lightly and smoothly it glided across the water.  I could have stayed out there all day.  It's so much fun.  The paddle gave me great speed.  It really opens your heart, too.  The views of the pine trees and mountains were spectacular.   As I skimmed across the water back to where I had launched, my new friend came running towards me with a bottle of water.  I thanked him, and told him that I had packed a bottle of water in my supply bag.

When I debarked, he must have noticed that I was having a bit of trouble using my knees to break down the boat.  He came over and helped me.  He had a rag in his hand, and was wiping the sand off of the bottom.   He was such a kind and eager helper.  It was really touching.  (especially with all of the violence Asians have been facing in our country recently.)  

He carried the kayak back to my car for me.  The lady with him asked me if it was expensive.  "Yes," I answered.  "A hundred dollars?" she guessed.  "Over a thousand,"  I answered.  It was worth every penny.  I think I will be kayaking daily.  It's such a fun, relaxing way to enjoy the water and nature.  

As we were packing up, one of the women wanted to know if I planned to come back tomorrow.  "Yes," I responded.  "What time?" she inquired.  When I told her my schedule, she said with a smile, "He will be here to help you."  They are so sweet.  I am looking forward to seeing them again.  

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