Deflector beam dish in operation on the Banana Boat at East Cape, Everglades National Park. Chickees and Keys in Florida Bay – Kayaking, Camping and Nice Dreams!
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After re-routing the main plasma conduit through the secondary auxiliary power circuits and bypassing the flux capacitors, my deflector dish is now fully operational! 😉
The maps and images on this site are not intended for navigation, I am not a guide; use any and all information at your own risk! Your mileage may vary .. so use good judgement before venturing out!
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I hereby disclaim any sponsorship, endorsement, nor association with any product or service described herein. The photographs, depictions, products, and ideas presented on this site are for informational purposes only. Your results may vary, and I do not imply nor guarantee the effectiveness, suitability, design or operation to adhere to any standard. I assume no legal responsibility for the implementation of anything herein presented! Use any and all information at your own risk! By using any and all information from this website, you accept the final liability for any use or possible associated misuse!
“Documenting the documenting!” Security cam footage on an Everglades backcountry chickee? 😉 Camping on the Johnson Key platform in Florida Bay.
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Ok, so this isn’t really security cam footage – it’s a self portrait from the Johnson Key chickee in Florida Bay. However the scenario is not really that far fetched, and the technology is certainly ready. As a society, we have been edging closer and closer to a total surveillance society for decades. Parts of the world are already there, but the same trend is evident throughout the world, including the USA. Some of this is due to the possibilities presented by new technologies, part of it is in response to the new tech and part is just plain naivete and greed. A lot has to do with salesmanship in the name of more and better “security” and perceived “safety”. So somewhere soon, perhaps even now a clever company might “propose” to improve visitor safety with remote wireless monitoring systems.
But is this the right thing to do? Does more surveillance really make us much safer?
What privacy expectations can one have in the middle of nowhere?
Is there a broader shift underway in managing the backcountry Park user experience?
These, among others are tough questions that are not even really being asked nor debated.
Welcome to the machine as it rolls on ..
and over individual liberties, freedom and privacy.
The maps and images on this site are not intended for navigation, I am not a guide; use any and all information at your own risk! Your mileage may vary .. so use good judgement before venturing out!
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I hereby disclaim any sponsorship, endorsement, nor association with any product or service described herein. The photographs, depictions, products, and ideas presented on this site are for informational purposes only. Your results may vary, and I do not imply nor guarantee the effectiveness, suitability, design or operation to adhere to any standard. I assume no legal responsibility for the implementation of anything herein presented! Use any and all information at your own risk! By using any and all information from this website, you accept the final liability for any use or possible associated misuse!
Day or night, early fall weather can be a real wildcard for paddlers in South Florida!
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An unsettled afternoon in early fall at East Cape, Everglades National Park. Chickees and Keys in Florida Bay – Kayaking, Camping and Nice Dreams!
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As the world turns, the season changes from the summertime afternoon squall pattern to regular cold fronts coming down from the northeast. Nestled in between there is early fall in South Florida which is still hot as summer but not nearly as predictable.
The nights especially can put on quite a show!
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“Detonation at Dawn” Giant storm system over eastern Florida Bay just before 5am! Available from Kayakfari ART Photography
The maps and images on this site are not intended for navigation, I am not a guide; use any and all information at your own risk! Your mileage may vary .. so use good judgement before venturing out!
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I hereby disclaim any sponsorship, endorsement, nor association with any product or service described herein. The photographs, depictions, products, and ideas presented on this site are for informational purposes only. Your results may vary, and I do not imply nor guarantee the effectiveness, suitability, design or operation to adhere to any standard. I assume no legal responsibility for the implementation of anything herein presented! Use any and all information at your own risk! By using any and all information from this website, you accept the final liability for any use or possible associated misuse!
The maps and images on this site are not intended for navigation, I am not a guide; use any and all information at your own risk! Your mileage may vary .. so use good judgement before venturing out!
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I hereby disclaim any sponsorship, endorsement, nor association with any product or service described herein. The photographs, depictions, products, and ideas presented on this site are for informational purposes only. Your results may vary, and I do not imply nor guarantee the effectiveness, suitability, design or operation to adhere to any standard. I assume no legal responsibility for the implementation of anything herein presented! Use any and all information at your own risk! By using any and all information from this website, you accept the final liability for any use or possible associated misuse!
The maps and images on this site are not intended for navigation, I am not a guide; use any and all information at your own risk! Your mileage may vary .. so use good judgement before venturing out!
…
I hereby disclaim any sponsorship, endorsement, nor association with any product or service described herein. The photographs, depictions, products, and ideas presented on this site are for informational purposes only. Your results may vary, and I do not imply nor guarantee the effectiveness, suitability, design or operation to adhere to any standard. I assume no legal responsibility for the implementation of anything herein presented! Use any and all information at your own risk! By using any and all information from this website, you accept the final liability for any use or possible associated misuse!
The maps and images on this site are not intended for navigation, I am not a guide; use any and all information at your own risk! Your mileage may vary .. so use good judgement before venturing out!
…
I hereby disclaim any sponsorship, endorsement, nor association with any product or service described herein. The photographs, depictions, products, and ideas presented on this site are for informational purposes only. Your results may vary, and I do not imply nor guarantee the effectiveness, suitability, design or operation to adhere to any standard. I assume no legal responsibility for the implementation of anything herein presented! Use any and all information at your own risk! By using any and all information from this website, you accept the final liability for any use or possible associated misuse!
The maps and images on this site are not intended for navigation, I am not a guide; use any and all information at your own risk! Your mileage may vary .. so use good judgement before venturing out!
…
I hereby disclaim any sponsorship, endorsement, nor association with any product or service described herein. The photographs, depictions, products, and ideas presented on this site are for informational purposes only. Your results may vary, and I do not imply nor guarantee the effectiveness, suitability, design or operation to adhere to any standard. I assume no legal responsibility for the implementation of anything herein presented! Use any and all information at your own risk! By using any and all information from this website, you accept the final liability for any use or possible associated misuse!
The maps and images on this site are not intended for navigation, I am not a guide; use any and all information at your own risk! Your mileage may vary .. so use good judgement before venturing out!
…
I hereby disclaim any sponsorship, endorsement, nor association with any product or service described herein. The photographs, depictions, products, and ideas presented on this site are for informational purposes only. Your results may vary, and I do not imply nor guarantee the effectiveness, suitability, design or operation to adhere to any standard. I assume no legal responsibility for the implementation of anything herein presented! Use any and all information at your own risk! By using any and all information from this website, you accept the final liability for any use or possible associated misuse!
The maps and images on this site are not intended for navigation, I am not a guide; use any and all information at your own risk! Your mileage may vary .. so use good judgement before venturing out!
…
I hereby disclaim any sponsorship, endorsement, nor association with any product or service described herein. The photographs, depictions, products, and ideas presented on this site are for informational purposes only. Your results may vary, and I do not imply nor guarantee the effectiveness, suitability, design or operation to adhere to any standard. I assume no legal responsibility for the implementation of anything herein presented! Use any and all information at your own risk! By using any and all information from this website, you accept the final liability for any use or possible associated misuse!
The maps and images on this site are not intended for navigation, I am not a guide; use any and all information at your own risk! Your mileage may vary .. so use good judgement before venturing out!
…
I hereby disclaim any sponsorship, endorsement, nor association with any product or service described herein. The photographs, depictions, products, and ideas presented on this site are for informational purposes only. Your results may vary, and I do not imply nor guarantee the effectiveness, suitability, design or operation to adhere to any standard. I assume no legal responsibility for the implementation of anything herein presented! Use any and all information at your own risk! By using any and all information from this website, you accept the final liability for any use or possible associated misuse!
The maps and images on this site are not intended for navigation, I am not a guide; use any and all information at your own risk! Your mileage may vary .. so use good judgement before venturing out!
This is a work of fiction. All characters appearing in this work are fictitious. Any resemblance to real persons, living or dead, is purely coincidental. No skeleton, nor person, nor kayak was harmed in the making of this work. The author is sorely responsible for the contents of this work!
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I hereby disclaim any sponsorship, endorsement, nor association with any product or service described herein. The photographs, depictions, products, and ideas presented on this site are for informational purposes only. Your results may vary, and I do not imply nor guarantee the effectiveness, suitability, design or operation to adhere to any standard. I assume no legal responsibility for the implementation of anything herein presented! Use any and all information at your own risk! By using any and all information from this website, you accept the final liability for any use or possible associated misuse!
DISCLAIMER:: The maps and images on this site are not intended for navigation, I am not a guide; use any and all information at your own risk! Your mileage may vary .. so use good judgement before venturing out!
DISCLAIMER:: The maps and images on this site are not intended for navigation, I am not a guide; use any and all information at your own risk! Your mileage may vary .. so use good judgement before venturing out!
DISCLAIMER:: The maps and images on this site are not intended for navigation, I am not a guide; use any and all information at your own risk! Your mileage may vary .. so use good judgement before venturing out!
DISCLAIMER:: The maps and images on this site are not intended for navigation, I am not a guide; use any and all information at your own risk! Your mileage may vary .. so use good judgement before venturing out!
This one is all about the feet, many various feet. So follow along – each pic is clickable for a related story!
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Most paddlers don’t think much about their feet. They tend to focus more on their arms, their hips and their paddles. But the foot is an important and integral part of kayaking and any paddling in general. Along with the hips and thighs, the feet anchor a paddler in or on top of the craft. Foot protection and footwear come in many forms and styles. As with distinctive paddling hats, footwear also sets paddlers apart!
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All toes on board at Whiskey Creek in Dania Beach, Florida. CLICK for story!
The feet will let you know when there is a problem or a mismatch with foot pegs or foot pads. Whether fixed, adjustable or sliding, a properly customized fit ensures maximum control and comfort while on the water. In a sit on top you’ll always be looking at your feet. In a traditional kayak, you might not see them but you’ll be feeling and using them – or should be! Sea Kayaks and traditional sit inside kayaks usually have adjustable foot bars or foot pegs. Most sit on top style kayaks have several fixed molded in foot braces. In either case you want to adjust your foot position so that your feet are pushing your butt back into the seat. This will help to keep your lower back straight and in a slightly forward leaning position.
I often see paddlers sit in their boat and immediately lean back as if at home in a recliner. You never want to be leaning back into the backrest unless you’re taking a break! Otherwise you’ll be in the wrong position for actual paddling and harmfully compressing your spine! You may need to readjust or re-position your seat straps to accomplish this. The lean forward position is not only good for paddling, it’s also really good for your lower back.
The feet are the key for proper paddling posture!
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Counting toes and bugs while camping in Hell! CLICK for story!
DISCLAIMER:: The maps and images on this site are not intended for navigation, I am not a guide; use any and all information at your own risk! Your mileage may vary .. so use good judgement before venturing out!
Day and night spin around 360 panoramas from the Johnson Key chickee in Florida Bay.
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“A sea of Tranquility in Florida Bay.” Full spin-around view from the Johnson Key chickee platform in Florida Bay. CLICK for full screen VR 360 Panorama!
“Midnight chickee chilling on Florida Bay.” Spin-around panoramic view in the still of the night from the Johnson Key chickee platform under a full moon. CLICK for full screen VR 360 Panorama!
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Paddling there is like living inside a Dali painting:
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Camping on the Johnson Key platform in Florida Bay!
DISCLAIMER:: The maps and images on this site are not intended for navigation, I am not a guide; use any and all information at your own risk! Your mileage may vary .. so use good judgement before venturing out!
DISCLAIMER:: The maps and images on this site are not intended for navigation, I am not a guide; use any and all information at your own risk! Your mileage may vary .. so use good judgement before venturing out!
In the zone – proper focus on Florida Bay. For illustration purposes only – your kayaking mileage may vary. CLICK for Story!
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Achieving and maintaining proper focus is important for safe and efficient distance paddling (or any kind of endurance sport). It really doesn’t hurt to be kayaking in as beautiful a place as the wide expanses of the marine wilderness of Florida Bay!
Early summer can be a great time to paddle. The seas are often flat and the afternoon monsoon thunderstorms haven’t regularly started up yet. The chickees are free and bug levels are still tolerable. Quality time spent outdoors is key to balance and good mental health. Cheers!
She ain’t exactly pretty She ain’t exactly small Eleven’eleven, thirty’four, sixty’one lbs But you could say she’s got it all ..
Rosie, she’s a whole lotta Kayak!
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(click each pic for a story!)
Snorkeling in Biscayne Bay, Rosie is like a personal sized dinghy! CLICK for story!
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We all love to see the sleek, fast and sexy boats. There are times however when a shorter “plus size” sit on top style kayak fits the bill! This is a humorous-musical ode to mine, which I shall call “Rosie”. She’s an Ocean Kayak Peekaboo, and yes, she’s been used and abused, and generally not pampered. With a shallow-vee and nearly flat hull, she’s the ultimate in stability on flat water! She has a large viewing port, and a jump seat in the front meant for a small child. She could carry two light adults in a pinch, but isn’t rated for it. I personally like to ride Rosie Standing UP style for visibility and photography. The downside to all this stability and generous girth is speed. She will cruise with a 230cm kayak paddle at a little over two knots, less when paddling SUP style. She does respond well to leaning and will turn on a dime with practice. Her long tracking keel does it’s job but will tend to catch on roots and grasses when backing up. Rosie can carry a lot of gear for camping, she likes to go snorkeling, she likes taking her time on flat water and she’s an excellent platform for standing.
I don’t always ride Rosie, but when I do we’re in love! 😉
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Entering a lush mangrove canopy atop Rosie. CLICK for story!
DISCLAIMER:: The maps and images on this site are not intended for navigation, I am not a guide; use any and all information at your own risk! Your mileage may vary .. so use good judgement before venturing out!
After an incredible 30 year run and service to sea paddlers around the world, Sea Kayaker magazine publishes their final issue for Feb/March 2014. Always a great read, it has been an honor to work with the magazine and have my story featured – “Chickees and Keys in Florida Bay” published!
After an incredible 30 year run and service to sea paddlers around the world, Sea Kayaker magazine publishes their last issue for Feb/March 2014 with a reproduction of the fun cover art of their very first issue – two ends of time, neatly tied!
As the sport’s premier publication, Sea Kayaker has been at the forefront literally since the beginning of the sport, influencing thousands of paddlers over nearly 30 years! It has always fired up my imagination with excellent travel articles to locations near and far. Each issue also always brought a healthy dose of reality in the “Safety” section. Sea Kayaker has had huge impact on the sport of sea kayaking with emphasis on education, training and safety with the publication of many books, such as the excellent “Deep Trouble” series! The list goes on .. and includes boat design & outfitting, providing a feedback loop to manufacturers from real world SK testing!
It has been an honor to work with editor Christopher Cunningham and staff to have my story featured – “Chickees and Keys in Florida Bay” published.
Thank you Sea Kayaker! For all you’ve done for the sport!
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Get your copy today, this one is sure to become a classic!
