[Ron]  “Even though this was a paddling trip, paddling is way down on the list of things I am going to remember. Even though the paddling was great, what stands out in my mind are the stars, the lobster pots, the scenery, and the camaraderie.”

[Chip]  “This was a great learning experience as well as an unbelievable great time. This was the first time I have done anything more than an overnighter roughing it. I admit I was a little concerned before the trip. I was amazed at how I grew accustomed to the living conditions as the days passed. I know am pretty adaptable generally, but I did somewhat surprise myself.

Also, the skills and knowledge learned from Doug and the others will be with me forever. The quick forward stroke clinic made the rest of the trip much more enjoyable. I picked up some navigation skills and learned different methods of towing. I watched Doug work his culinary magic whenever possible. I was so enthralled in watching him that I didn't do as much hands on as I would have liked. My bad. I also learned that the people make the experience. We had a great group. Thanks guys.

[Nelson]  “It's extremely difficult to describe the enjoyment and satisfaction I got from this trip with all the detail it deserves. So many of the experiences we had were the "You had to be there" kind. I'm sure many of you reading this know exactly what I'm talking about.

Paddling Maine and true wilderness camping are things I've wanted to do for a long time. I'm so appreciative that Doug was able to make both of them a reality for us at the expense of yet another week away from home. He's a great teacher, patient and encouraging; he's an excellent navigator and seaman, always knowing where we were while I was looking at the same chart and scratching my head (this has no reflection on your navigation class Doug). And I can't forget to mention the three highlights of every day, breakfast, lunch and dinner. We were never hungry (ok John was hungry), we never got the same meal twice and there was always plenty for seconds (John even managed to have thirds a few times). As far as I'm concerned these were gourmet meals cooked by a wilderness chef even after his Coleman double burner quit on him.

The image of our tents set up in the cool green woods of Hell's Half Acre will be with me forever as will the sunsets we watched from Wheat, the tall ships that crossed our path and the many Monarch butterflies that accompanied us whether on land or at sea. I'll never look at the Big Dipper the same again, remembering how it hung over our camp holding in the rain for as long as it could. But as great as all of this was the thing I will remember most was being able to share it all with five great people who just seemed to click. We all enjoyed each others company and worked well together both on the water and in camp. There was plenty of respect for each others space and personalities never clashed. Steven was always there to lend you his ear and John kept us in stitches, while Chip's wit, not to be dismissed, was always stealthfully present. Ron helped to keep everything on the level (except for his tent on Wheat Island that is). Doug's generosity, his easy going manner and the knowledge and experience that he shared so freely with all of us, helped to make it all possible and keep it all together.

This was a truly awesome experience for me and I’m  already looking forward to our next adventure. Hey, I have a great idea.... why not Nova Scotia !”

[Steven] “What a great adventure!!!  It has been entirely too long since I have been able to get out for a multi-day excursion, and not since a child, backpacking and canoeing with my parents, had I been out for a full week.  This is just what my soul needed.

On this trip, some of my past experiences were re-lived.  The stars, as seen from a wide-open and clear sky, never get old.  No matter how much sleep you actually get, one wakes from a tent feeling refreshed.  The smell of camp coffee brewing could make a devout Dunkin Donuts worshipper swear it off for life.  The power of nature to clear the cobwebs and nourish the soul is a gift too few take advantage of.  

However, some new experiences were also gained.  I learned that sunset from a tiny island is second to no other.  To come home to a little island camp after a day of paddling brings a sense of satisfaction no home owner can ever know.  Life is too short not to eat well… even when camping.

Many thanks to my companions for a great experience, and a huge thanks to Doug for his sound leadership and shared knowledge.”

  [Doug]  “Thank you five Wild Turkeys, I enjoyed our paddle in and around Stonington . It was a treat to travel with you. Each of you possesses the qualities of good paddlers.  Technical skills are definitely important and are the easiest part about paddling to learn, you are well on your way to refining those.  But you all show patience, flexibility and a self awareness that will bring your paddling skill level beyond most. You do and will make sound judgments and are critical thinkers, both things are vital to trip leading.  You will help create a standard the Wild Turkeys will be known for. Thanks for your good humor, your willingness to help, your shared enthusiasm, and the power paddle, I will use it till it wears away. Thanks”

THE END