It was a good day for meeting new friends for all of us. This was the first time any of us had paddled with Gareth and Diana, and it was the first time that Dave met Rick. The group was well matched as we all paddled at about the same speed and were up for the 12 nautical mile round trip from Carpinteria to Butterfly Beach in Montecito.

We couldn't have asked for a nicer day. With no wind, a cool overcast sky and flat water it was possible to average around 4 knots without overheating. Still, when we stopped for water breaks Dave and I just had to practice a couple of rolls. There's nothing quite like a quick roll in 58 degree water for refreshment.

As we rounded Loon Point we met a pod of about 10 dolphins. With Gareth paddling their new Necky Nootka double, Diana was able to take pictures from the front seat. They were quite a team paddling together. Not only did they made it look easy to stay synchronized and graceful, but they managed to enjoy each other's company from the beginning of the paddle to the end. As anyone who has tried to paddle a double kayak will testify, staying on positive terms with your partner is no easy feat since it requires both paddling and social skills.

At Butterfly beach I tried my hand at surfing, but it was really hard to catch a ride since the 1 foot surf spilled onto the beach after traveling only about ten feet. Fortunately we all made picture perfect landings and launches at Butterfly Beach to the amazement of all the people watching us.

A five mile an hour wind helped push us along on the return trip to Carpinteria. Aside from a couple of practice rolls for Dave and me, there was not much to make much noise about. (I always make a lot of noise when I roll my kayak in cold water; it helps scare away evil demons and jet skies.)

Although there was nothing really spectacular to report on this trip, we really had a great day on the water together. And meeting new kayaking friends is always something to be greatly appreciated.

    Patrick Martin