We Got a Kayak!

It was by no means a spontaneous purchase: after weeks of planning (and years of dreaming), we finally committed to purchasing a Hobie Odyssey 2.5 seat fishing kayak. (The 0.5 seat is for when Alaya grows a bit. Apparently, it's safe for her to try as early as next summer! The fishing compatibility is for Ross and my Dad when he joins him.) We live in Jan Juc, snuggled beside Torquay in the Surf Coast, and we have to take advantage of our gorgeous natural environment. I am not a surfer and Ross is just re-learning the ropes after decades of non-practice - but kayaking is one activity we both love, and we have always "grabbed the oars" so to speak, when we go on holidays.

This Labour Day weekend, we kayaked at Anglesea River and along Torquay Front Beach, which was the first time I personally had kayaked on open water.

I am big on getting out and having a go at things, regardless of your age or experience. This applies to physical activities, art, music, and all other areas that we tend to relegate to children. Somewhere along the ageing continuum, we harbour a belief that we are "too old" to start something new. This reminds me of a little story from Julia Cameron's soul-stirring, workbook, "The Artist's Way":

There was a woman who had always wanted to play the piano but thought she was too old. She said to her friend, "Do you know how old I'll be once I learn how to play properly?" Her friend replied, "The same age you'll be if you don't."

My paddling technique leaves a lot to be desired - and my drenched clothes is a good testimony to that! But kayaking is good fun and a great workout, and terrific "date-time" for Ross and I while Alaya is babysat by her Ninny. In years to come, I may even be good at kayaking, but practising is its own reward for now.

Next summer is the big one I've been wanting to learn: SUPPING. Stay tuned!

What way can you challenge yourself and try something new?

#torquaykayaking #giveitago #trysomethingnew