We represented five counties - Orange, San Diego, Los Angeles, Ventura, and San Bernardino - and varying levels of kayaking skills. But we all had a great time.

After a short briefing and introductions we launched. Wind conditions were definitely 10 to 15 knots with choppy seas as we headed out the channel to the end of the jetty.

After rounding the jetty we paddled past the rock gardens and forged ahead to Crystal Cove where we turned around and headed back. We passed plenty of kelp but no seals or dolphins. On the way back a few stopped near the jetty for skill practice as the rest proceeded down the channel. When we regrouped we continued into the harbor and paddled around Balboa Island crossing the channel twice amidst much bigger boats headed for open water.

After landing back at Coast Guard beach we quickly rinsed off our gear, loaded boats, changed clothes, and grabbed a couple of tables for our picnic and homemade cookies courtesy of Barb and I, today's hosts. Barb brought butterscotch bars and roll or drown squares and I brought magic bars and walnut wafers. Jana was kind enough to bring a tray of fruit for all to enjoy. We gobbled down lunch, fruit, and desserts enjoying each other's company and conversation. It was still windy but no one seemed inclined to leave. It was a perfect ending for a great day of paddling.

Thank you to everyone who came and made this paddle so enjoyable. Barb and I promise to have less wind the next time we host a paddle!

Kathy Pilcher

Photos by Ken Fry
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Leaving the Channel	Too many of Barb and Kathy's cookies

View pictures by Duane Strosaker.
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