The view from my kayak tonight.
If you had told me a year ago that one of my favorite things to do in this city would be to kayak down the East River, I probably would have laughed in your face. Here I am, one year later, and guys I gotta say, I’m a total convert. Tonight was my first kayaking trip this season, and I’m finally feeling that kayak-induced bliss again.
Stalling on the river with oars in hand, the scent of seawater just inches below you in stark contrast to the legendary skyscrapers towering shoreside… there is truly nothing like it. It is my place of zen. It’s like nothing else I’ve ever done.
I won’t lie – I didn’t join the North Brooklyn Boat Club without a slew of reservations. My upper arm strength has always been semi-pitiful, and prior to last summer I’d never eat set foot inside a kayak. Blame it on a fear of fish or a fear of failure, but I was nervous when I first walked into the boatyard. I’m pretty sure karma wanted me to grow up and own it, because that first trip I took with the NBBC, I fell straight into the river. Yep, I toppled right over beneath the Williamsburg piers. It was the first and only time I fell in – I laughed it off, and honestly, it kind of gave me the bump of courage I needed. The worst had happened, and the worst was kind of hilarious.
This past year has been a lot of adventures for me. I’ve been trying my best to really explore this city and truly challenge myself, and it’s led to so many new friends and good times. So if you’re looking for more action in your life, don’t hesitate! To bolster a cliche, take the plunge – even if that plunge lands you headfirst into the East River.
kristin nehls says, "hello." 