Oaring Engines, Course of Ice

   In the attempt to navigate one's way through a physical barrier some interesting things come to light, especially if you are trying to get around a pack of shifting ice. A small vessel depends more upon your own resources due to it's limitations of size than a larger one with some mass to push it's way through. 
No brainer there, of course.
   Understanding that navigation is in reality the art of utilizing the mathematics in natural phenomenon to reach a given objective, it is still good if the "natural phenomenon" cooperates, at least to some degree. But if it gets stubborn, as it often has a tendency to do, it helps to know that dealing with the unknowns in your direction doesn't require for one to remain lost as an option, especially when working out the more healthy equations of survival. It is, after all, how efficiently you master the use of the knowledge available to you that determines the accuracy of your position.
   And your chances of getting through.

   The method of propulsion with a kayaq is usually the type of paddles you employ, though some have been known to sail with a marginal degree of success, despite the obvious limitations in stability. Recently, however, in getting together with a gentleman from Minnesota, Mike Nesseth (proprietor of EZ-ROW Inc. and the designer of his patented oaring engine <www.ez-row.com> ), I have had the privilege of acquiring a beefed up alternative in his simplified and quite efficient forward facing oaring engine. It operates as would a rowing machine in an exercise gym, but you are propelling the boat forward while facing forward, engaging your whole body in the act of moving your craft versus your upper body only as with paddling a conventional canoe or kayaq. The kayaq has to be designed for the increased beam and corresponding length to beam hull contours, but conventional canoes can utilize the unit as it comes. The advantages are obvious, and this machine, while lightweight, is simpler than any other I've seen available and much stronger.
   Keilidgh Irene will benefit in greater and more efficient use of her lines - and the old war dog will gain an edge that age will appreciate. Everything still works - it's just good to keep everything working together. Harmony in the joints is everything, especially when they are the only team you will have to rely on.
   So as the season of consideration for others comes with some degree of concern across the world, we find in the reminders of our own human limitations how much we really need the peace. The strength we give each other comes back to care for the giver several times over - not a bad investment, really, when one considers how isolated you can quickly become in a field of ice.

  Merry Christmas!
                          - WKD