Toby you are nota a wimp, you are a WaterTriber. I too have steered away from forum for awhile. Tribers don't whine, and they keep looking and moving forward. Which is what I'm doing. Back in the Dreamcatcher, planning to be ready for UFC. Unfortunately I can't paddle the BBC or NCC this year, but will be there as CP captain and helping Paula anyway I can, so will see some of you then.
I believe elders should help and encourage those new to the tribe in lots of great ways, but, not in ways that make it easy to not do your own homework necessary to complete a challenge. Offering advice and answering questions about training, equipment and packing, etc.. a good thing. Advice on food stuff to try also,good. Advice regards navigation software a good thing. However, things like offering or asking for files with previously used waypoints and routes is in my opinion not appropriate. Occasionally I see questions asked that just don't seem to belong when talking about a personal self supported challenge. It's a lot of prep and work, you have to do it.
I also believe that the manuscript section of this website has most of what anyone needs to prepare and finish a challenge. Newbies should start there, before questions. I'm an old elder, done a few of these, even remember when we didn't have folks SPOT tracks to study and find campsites and routes. Just remember not everything another does will work for you.
Just get out and spend time on the water experimenting.
Now, I need advice. I had invested in a Kickstarter Llama wool sleeping bag that is not going to happen. So now am looking for advice for a new sleeping bag. Am considering one of the new water repellant wool bags. Need a bag for kayak (not sailboat). Anyone?
Dawn
