Solitude

On the verge of an expedition. Faithful readers know that means: a) I’m already packed up with plans checked and doubled-checked b) I’m going bonkers waiting and am writing for displacement activity.

The second most frequent question is, who’s going with you? (Most frequent is, are you crazy?)

The answer is no one. The trip or feat, if you will, is paddling on all five Great Lakes in a five-day span. Given the potential hazards of the trip, I did approach several seasoned paddlers who might have the free time. I received one of two responses. No and hell no (see question about the sanity of this plan).

So, I’m traveling solo. Not for the first time, especially subsequent to retirement. Some say they can see that. The quiet, serenity and time to contemplate. Heck with that. I’m no Thoreau.

It does have its advantages. I don’t have the burden and problems of herding others with various levels of capabilities, but I also lack the benefit of those talents. And the amusement. The people I usually travel with have a great time together.

I often travel solo now as I did the few times I ventured out in other stages of life. I’ve crisscrossed the country in sports cars and on motorcycles. I may have been alone on the road but that ended at the campground or tavern. Meeting locals is part of the trip.

I’m not shy about it and racking a 17’ kayak above my truck is a bit of an icebreaker. Some people who have approached me at campgrounds said I just looked like someone who would have some good stories. In the interest of balance, acquaintances have told me I don’t look especially approachable.

But, I do have time alone and am prepared for that. I take a book and a recorder (fipple flute). A half dozen repetitions of “Greensleeves” is usually enough to ward off visitors when you’re not in the mood. And “Mustang Sally” played on a woodwind draws nothing but stray dogs. I’d take my accordion but “Lady of Spain” would empty a campground.

I’m not so reckless as to take on the big water alone. I reached out and found paddlers at each location to kayak with. Not as easy as you might think since I’m paddling during work hours.

I crafted my email invitations to explain who I was and what I was doing in 25 words or less (actually, a few more). One denizen of the far north responded, “I know who you are!” Some trepidation about meeting up with her.

But, that’s part of the deal with the lone adventurer.