Sweepin the floors, open up the doors,
Yeah turn on the lights, getting ready for the night
Nobody’s romancing, ’cause its too early for dancing
But here comes the music
-j.johnson

Wow! It’s May again. Yesterday I received my symposium schedule from Laurie Levknect and found that I will actually be teaching some “adult” classes at the West Michigan symposium. I had a suspicion they were going to firmly plant me in the children’s ward for the duration. I like children, but I’m glad I’ll get time with the ‘big people’ as well. So, to warm up for the symposium now would be a good time to read my post from last year. Interesting to see it from that perspective again. At this point last year I was in a panic knowing I was heading out on a trip with a bunch of Uber paddlers. The thought of finally meeting Justine had me sweating bullets! This year I’m just excited to get back and see so many friendly faces. There’s just something about this symposium that feels like home to me. I’ve really missed the Michigan gang. I’m so anxious to see everyone again.

On the other hand, let me not suggest even for one second that this year I’m still not sweating bullets. This year I have the unique privilege to have a visit from Simon Osborne! As most of you know, in 2002 and 2004 Simon solo circumnavigated the United Kingdom and Ireland, respectively, in order to raise money and awareness for Leukemia research, in memory of his brother Mark. Also to many of us Nigel Dennis Kayak owners, Simon was the “face” of NDK, or at least the guy we all b*tched at when figuring out how to install new seats!! Simon will be the guest speaker at the West Michigan Symposium and since he’s got a few days before hand, we’re going to take a little time to explore Wisconsin as well. At first I thought, “Wow, what great fun this will be!”. But now as the time approaches I’m starting to think of ways to keep him off the water. Otherwise he’s certain to catch on to what an incompetent old geezer I am! With that in mind, I have schemed a scheme. When he arrives we’re going to drive up to the Apostle Islands to visit with some friends who suggested libations and pizza before even thinking about paddling. I like that! Maybe then if all goes according to plan, we won’t even launch the Kayaks! We could just take the ferry over to Madeline Island and spend a few days on the floor of “Tom’s Burned Down Cafe“. Then we’d wake up and realize we have to leave and get over to Michigan. “Wow, sorry Simon! No time to paddle now!!”

Ah, Summer. This kayaking thing is pretty cool, eh? Now I’ve got to get those plans in order. Get that high-speed ferry ticket, sort out kayaks (I really want to take my Actua), and be sure I know exactly where we’re meeting Alex! Wouldn’t want to leave Mr. “G-Style” behind when we’re going into the domain of Doug Van Doren. .

Man, on second thought, maybe I’d better stay home. Talk about out-classed at every corner, Sheeesh! Now, wasn’t I right here last year?