On the windiest, stormiest days, I seem to look out of our kitchen window at just the right moment to catch sight of a tiny human form out in the Sound, barreling toward shore on a stand-up paddleboard at a pace that’s normally unheard of. Adrenaline shoots through me – I want to be out there too!
Today, I happened to look out and see two forms pass by. Then another. Then more! Oh, how I longed to be included in the gang!
I got my jacket on, stuffed in my iPod, and pulled on my boots. I knew they’d beat me to shore before I drove up in time to capture them coming in, but I needed to feel at least a moment of their excitement.
Orcas Island is already a very quiet place in winter. Especially now in COVID times. On days with inclement weather, people aren’t out doing much else but grocery shopping. It’s not like California, or even cities nearby, where adventurous people are out all over the place no matter the weather or season. Sometimes I only pass one soul while out on a rainy walk. And they’re clambering to get out of it. So when I catch the rare sight of people out purposely braving the elements together, my heart races.
If you’re as starved as I am for adventurous community or vicarious adrenaline, here’s a peek at the end of the line for the folks that were out there today in the howling wind and 48° water. It took them an hour and 15 minutes to fly up the Sound from White Beach to Fishing Bay.
I look forward to the day that my wetsuit thickness, ocean skills, and acquaintances are appropriate for inclusion in such an outing. Until then, I’ll reluctantly settle for being the envious paparazza…
What adventurous and hearty souls!
Oh, to be part of the adventurous folks out on the water too, Edee! Great pictures of a fabulous time!
I get this longing of which you speak. This wanting to be a part of other’s adventures. Thank you for sharing this.