Pt 2 :: Making Room For Autism In Your Canoe - Paddling At Home

Dig this: April 2nd is World Autism Awareness Day (WAAD) and April is also known to many as Autism Awareness Month.  This multiple part story/part guide, written in honour of The Six Degree Project (Autism Awareness Celebrity Campaign) and WAAD, is the tale (with tips) of how we got to the end of the portage with our son. With hopes to help raise awareness about autism and the extra challenge it brings to lives of many families, including ours; we also hope this Making Room For Autism In Your Canoe "series" helps to inspire other families to get out there and live their dreams as best as they are able - because even though, with autism, our lives are different - they shouldn't be less. ~Fiona

The Journey Begins, Paddling at Home:

The first time we put Makobe in a canoe - he was moving everywhere and not happy with the demand to sit in one area for any period of time. So we started with pretending to canoe in our living room using our paddles and our ottoman. Then in a real canoe with very small 10 to 15 minute paddling trips at first, working up to longer trips until we were able to spend a few hours in a canoe with a bit of motivation (usually a swimming spot for Makobe), a number of favourite fidget toys, and some edible reinforcement (gluten-free gummy bears or crackers). Using the principles of ABA (Applied Behaviour Analysis), we would praise Makobe for the behaviours we wanted to see. "I like how nice you are sitting!" and "Good job sitting quietly!" helped to let him know what we wanted from him by giving attention to those things. We allowed stims** that did not affect the balance of the canoe. And we always tried to end the paddling experience on a positive note so that his last memory of canoeing with us would be a reinforcing one.

Fidget toys can be a very helpful tool in a canoe!

Later, once he had learned how to sit balanced nicely,  it became naturally reinforcing for Makobe to be out in the canoe, especially when he could drag his hand in the water as we paddled along. We also provided Makobe with a camp seat (a soft folding chair, also known as a stadium chair, that can be strapped to a canoe seat to keep it in place) so that he was aware visually where he was supposed to sit and to help maintain balance in the canoe. Mike and I have many years experience paddling in canoes and we both lean our boats when soloing so we are aware of a canoe’s balance points, therefore we are both comfortable with Makobe leaning over to trail his hand in the water as we paddle along. Although in some conditions like rough weather, large waves, or with a heavily loaded canoe, this wouldn’t be possible - that is where the small fidget toys take over. (Fidget toys can be anything small that a child favours to help keep their hands and minds occupied - for example, some of Makobe's favourites are: Tangle Therapy, Spaghetti Balls, Stretchy Frogs, Koosh Balls, etc., see above photo)

We found the best place to sit Makobe (especially in the beginning) was within easy reach of the stern paddler. It is much easier to physically control a child just in front of you than if you had to reach around behind you in a canoe. (This is also an important consideration in a meltdown situation, but more on that in a bit.) Later, once Makobe began to understand the balance of the boat better and his concept of canoeing had matured a bit, we moved him more to the middle of the canoe to allow room for gear and more leg space.

When we all felt comfortable with the progress made, the next step was paddling with large amounts of gear in the canoe - as this affects the feel and balance of the canoe considerably. It also gets a bit more crowded once all the packs and drybags are filing up the space. Thus, it is important to make sure that the child is comfortable and has some room to move around and shift to get comfortable on a longer paddle. We found that Makobe sometimes preferred to be packed in a bit but usually would sit up on a small pack for part of the journey for a better view and position.

Coming next: Visual First Aid

Written by Fiona Westner-Ramsay in support of The Six Degree Project Autism Awareness campaign.

To read all the parts to this story guide, click here: Making Room For Autism In Your Canoe

To read our report from Makobe's first wilderness trip into Algonquin, please click here: Making Room For Autism In Your Canoe - A Trip Report

**Stim(s) or Stimming are the terms most used to describe a self-stimulatory behaviour or activity that is performed repetitively and usually to the alienation of others.  Examples can be screaming, hand-flapping, finger play, rocking, spinning, lining up objects, verbal behaviour, etc.

The Twelve Days of Muskoka - Christmas & Holiday Local Gift Guide :: Day 6

We really dig living in Muskoka. The area is home to many beautiful iconic features and creatures that have come to help symbolize Ontario and Canada as we know it. But one of features that we like the most is how inspiring it is to live amongst the many artisans and crafters - that have made this land of rock and water their home - as well the smaller businesses that have come to be part of the personality and character of the Muskoka we have come to know and love. Thus Twelve Days of Muskoka, inspired by Suburban Tourist's Twelve Days of Holiday Gift Giving, is meant to celebrate these people and their businesses as well as introduce you to some new gift giving ideas and remind you of some old favourites.

The Sixth Day of Muskoka Christmas & Holiday Gift Giving Guide

Screen shot of The Wolf Den website.

Wolf Den Bunkhouse 'n Cabins

Day 5 we mentioned Algonquin. And what goes paw in paw with Algonquin Park? Answer: The Wolf Den. If you make a gift out of a trip to Algonquin Park, the Wolf Den is one of the places we would recommend you stay. Built on the spirit of community and the love of nature, The Wolf Den is one of the most friendly of places you will come to know. Known as Muskoka's hostel, the property also has private cabins available too. They also have an Education Centre that offers half-day workshops and guided hikes on topics such as plants, survival skills, wildlife tracking and connecting with nature. Just situated outside of the park's West Gate, The Wolf Den is also the perfect spot to stop for a night before and/after a canoe trip into the park's interior.

A tale of overcoming the emotional
and physical obstacles Sean faced,
this inspirational story is a great gift for
paddlers and non-paddlers alike!

We have friends who dig the Wolf Den (and the people there, like Ben) so much that they have made it a tradition to stay there whenever they are on a multi-day canoe trip into the Park. We have even stayed there ourselves with Sean Smith, author of The Fat Paddler (which by the way, is a book that should make your gift list as well this year! Check it out here: The Fat Paddler Book) and we were really diggin' it too. Seeing that we all have too much stuff and most of us need to reconnect with our natural world and each other, giving the gift of a stay at the Wolf Den will prove to be an experience that will bring treasured moments and memories to any person's life. 

The Beaver Cabin were we stayed with Sean (The Fat Paddler)

Because you can't wrap up life experience in a box and put a bow on it, we would definitely put the gift of a stay at the Wolf Den under the heading of non-traditional gifts - with a tag marking it as "priceless".

The Twelve Days of Muskoka - Christmas & Holiday Local Gift Guide :: Day 5

We really dig living in Muskoka. The area is home to many beautiful iconic features and creatures that have come to help symbolize Ontario and Canada as we know it. But one of features that we like the most is how inspiring it is to live amongst the many artisans and crafters - that have made this land of rock and water their home - as well the smaller businesses that have come to be part of the personality and character of the Muskoka we have come to know and love. Thus Twelve Days of Muskoka, inspired by Suburban Tourist's Twelve Days of Holiday Gift Giving, is meant to celebrate these people and their businesses as well as introduce you to some new gift giving ideas and remind you of some old favourites.

The Fifth Day of Muskoka Christmas & Holiday Gift Giving Guide

Friends of Algonquin Park
People Who Are Passionate About The Park

You can't really talk about Muskoka without mentioning the world famous Algonquin Provincial Park. And if you dig the park as much as we do, you may want to think about doing some holiday gift shopping that also helps support The Friends of Algonquin Park (FOAP). The FOAP is a non-profit Canadian registered charity that dedicates their resources to the educational and interpretive programs of Algonquin Provincial Park by way of research, the development and delivery of programs, workshops and events, plus they help in the production of educational materials. You can shop online for Algonquin related books, clothes, DVD's and more - or visit one of their book store locations (depending on time of year). Making a donation or purchasing a FOAP membership are also possible present ideas.Visit their website for more information and give a gift or two this year that helps Algonquin Park.

Did you know that Badger Paddles donates to
the annual FOAP Fundraising Raffle along with our
friends Swift Canoe and Algonquin Outfitters too?!

Tying A Bowline - In Memory Of Peter Lasch Sr.

Today is Remembrance Day. And it is a little different for my family this year than previous years. This is the first Remembrance Day that we will be without a very special man, Peter J. Lasch Sr.

Peter  J. "Pops" Lasch Sr.

Peter, my Grandfather - also known as Pops - was a true gentleman, a devoted husband, loving father, and proud grandpa. He was a master machinist and passionate paddler. He was also a veteran of World War II. Although we just lost him this past summer, Peter lives on in our hearts and memories, and even the knots we tie.

Thus, this blog posting is dedicated to the honour of my Grandpa Lasch on behalf of my mother, Mhairi, and my father Mike (a.k.a. Poppa Badger), as well as my Grandmother and the rest of the Lasch clan. It is also in honour of all Veterans of the past, present, and future - including my Grandpa Harry Westner - and any or all who served and sacrificed for our freedom. We will never forget.....

Pops & Sue look over the map while on trip.

Pops & Poppa Badger - On How To Tie A Bowline:

"I was taught the bowline knot by my father-in-law Peter (a.k.a. Pops), an old navy boy who was a master at knots, monkey fists, turk's head, the bowline, etc.  Fiona (of Badger Paddles), my daughter, mastered the knot the same way and the same crazy test. {Tying a bowline with both hands behind your back, standing on one foot, all with your eyes closed!} Once you learn it that way, you never forget it. Pops use to tell me you had to learn that knot and how to tie it with one a handed wrist action as a life saving tool in the event you ever fell over board in the navy. This knot could be done around your waist and will not slip allowing you to be pulled to safety and of course the knot can be released very easy." ~ Mike Westner (a.k.a. Poppa Badger).

Sue and Pops with an Algonquin moose.

The following video, dedicated to the memory of Pops, shows how to tie a bowline using Grandpa's (Pops') method:

The following text was written by Poppa Badger upon the passing of his father-in-law, and Fiona's grandfather, Peter (Pops) Lasch - the man who tied a bowline around our hearts. It was read at Pops' funeral service by Poppa Badger to many tears and smiles.

Hello. For those who do not know me, I'm Mike. Pops' son-in-law. I would like to take a few moments to talk about a father-in-law who was really so much more.

Arriving on the scene as an eighteen year old, I was made to feel welcome in their house. and as Pops used to put it "It's just another plate to wash!". Soon after I was invited along on their camping trips into Opeongo Lake in  Algonquin Park. I thought "Wow! Algonquin AND my girlfriend?!!" After a few of these trips I thought "I'd better cement this deal. After all, this was ALGONQUIN!".

Pops and Sue (my mother-in-law) shared the desire with their daughter and I to see all of Algonquin by canoe and this led to aour annual two week camping and canoeing trips that ended up spanning over 35 years - with the last few years trips to Quetico Wilderness Park.

Peter (Pops) Lasch Sr.

It's on these trips where I grew to admire  Pops' many talents, especially his skill with rope and knot tying. Pops was a wizard with knots. Pops and Sue were not fancy paddlers, but together they were strong canoeists who could handle whatever Nature brought their way. Now if there happened to be a mishap, like someone falling in the rapids, or getting their sleeping bags wet - Pops was the culprit.

A couple of more serious occasions come to mind, like very early one morning while camping at the top of Opeongo Lake, Pops was splitting kindling with a hatchet when he quietly said "I think I chopped my finger off.". Well, he had! And Sue bandaged him enough for a boat ride to the Ranger's Station, then a car ride to the Doctor's in Whitby. I thought "That's the end of this trip!". But much later that day Pops and Sue were back and the next day we were all swimming. I remember: There's Pops standing in the lake up to his chest with his newly shortened finger high above his head so it didn't get wet!

On another occasion we arrived to pick up Pops and Sue for a canoe trip and there was Pops sitting at the kitchen table with a broken jaw; courtesy of an errant puck from an amateur hockey game the night before. Again I thought : That's the end of this trip!". But after seeing three disappointed faces, Pops insisted we all go. That night, three of us ate steak, potatoes, and corn; and poor Pops had whatever he could get through a straw. He would do anything to make us happy!

I find it odd and strange how we remember someone who touched our lives is not always because of some great deed. With Pops, for me, it could be whenever I pick up a piece of rope, or whenever I see those grey lumberhack socks with the two red bands, or maybe a white Sailor's hat. Simple things, yes, but this is how he lived his life. Always taking his joy from loving his family.

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

Rest in Peace, Pops. And know that we take great joy from loving you too.

Badger Your Friends Contest Winners

When we checked the number of "Likes" on our Facebook page just before midnight last night, we couldn't help but dig what we saw. We made it to 1000 "Likes" just in time for the close of the contest!


Thanks to all the Badgers who spread the word about Badger® Paddles - and helped to bring even more paddling Badgers to our sett on Facebook. 1000 Badgers! Now that has got to be the largest "Badger Clan" ever!!!


However, while you all deserve to get your paws on some prizes, we could only pick 5 randomly chosen winners. And they are:

First Prize Winner: Melanie Buckle

Second Prize Winner: Ray McCullough

Third Prize Winner:  Gayle Bellemare 

Fourth Prize Winner: Jason Funk 

Fifth Prize Winner: Nathan Miller

All winners have now been contacted by email. Once again, thanks to everyone for their amazing participation in our contest. And for letting us badger you about it!!!

For those Badgers who did not win this time around, thanks for your efforts and remember....who knows what the next Badger® Contest will bring!?!

Thanks to our contest sponsors: Algonquin Outfitters,
Hap Wilson, and Jerry Vandiver
Full prize descriptions for each winner can be found below.

NOTE:
First Prize Winner will receive:
One Badger Canoe Paddle and Badger Paddle Sock (value $135 or less). Plus one Opeongo Day Fishing/Paddling Trip complete with Water Taxi (value $85 CAD or less). (prize pack value: $225 CAD or less) Plus one Algonquin Outfitters sticker and one Badger Paddles sticker. 



Second Prize Winner will receive:
Hap Wilson’s newly re-published Temagami - A Wilderness Paradise book - signed by the author. Plus one Badger Paddle Sock (prize pack value: $50 CAD or less). Plus one Algonquin Outfitters sticker and one Badger Paddles sticker.


Third Prize Winner will receive:
A signed by the artist copy of Jerry Vandiver’s paddle songs CD titled: True and Deep - Songs for the Heart of the Paddler, and one Badger “Profits of Paddling” T-shirt (prize pack value: $40 CAD or less) Plus one Algonquin Outfitters sticker and one Badger Paddles sticker.


Fourth Prize Winner will receive:
One Badger “Profits of Paddling” T-shirt. Plus one Algonquin Outfitters sticker and one Badger Paddles sticker. (prize pack value: $35 CAD or less).


Fifth Prize Winner will receive:
One Badger Paddle Sock. Plus one Algonquin Outfitters sticker and one Badger Paddles sticker (prize pack value: $25 CAD or less).

Thanks again to everyone who entered!


And a special Badger thank you to all of our contest sponsors including, Algonquin Outfitters, amazing artist, author and trail blazer - Hap Wilson, and the ever talented Jerry Vandiver. We are sure that our contest would not have been near as much fun with out you. We dig you all very VERY much! 

When Bears Badger - An Algonquin Tale

Apparently, I was taken on my first canoe trip into Algonquin Park (Canoe Lake) when I was was quite young - only 18 months old. And it wouldn't be my last, although I did end up growing out of the papoose pretty quickly.

Throughout my youth I would spend summers with my parents (who were quite avid canoeists, as it turns out) outside in a tent. Living in Toronto, we spent quite a bit of time as a family in Algonquin, traveling various routes throughout the Lake Opeongo, Canoe Lake and North Tea/Fawcett Creek areas.

Actual "permit" from Fiona's
very first canoe trip.

Pocahontas And Me
Looking back now, I was very lucky to have parents who hauled me out of the city each summer to experience a more natural world. Especially seeing my friends took to referring to our part of the city as the DLS (Dirty Lakeshore).

But my father, Mike, and my mother, Mhairi (pronounced Mary - it's the Gaelic spelling) didn't want to do anything else on their vacation other than paddle. Spending time in the wilderness had a profound effect on me growing up. As a young girl, I quite literally wanted to be Pocahontas. But to me, the most memorable of my canoe trip experiences, (besides everything!) was our many encounters with the native wildlife. Those of you who have been a few steps, or paddle strokes away from an animal in its natural habitat, are probably best able to understand how sharing a peaceful moment with a wild creature can be a remarkably rewarding experience. Even spellbinding at times.

Our family was lucky enough to have connected with nature many times over the years. We have had the distinct pleasure (and luck) to view many a Black Bear, Moose, Deer, Fox, Rabbit, Raccoon, and many other forest creatures as well as the Loon, Wood Ducks, Turkey Vultures, Eagles, Ravens, Heron, Grouse, Mink, and more. My father, "Poppa Badger", once even saw the very elusive Wolf (I missed it being on the other side of the portage). Some of these creatures we happened upon unwittingly and to the surprise of all parties involved. Others we waited for hours to see, tucked away in our boats in the swamp of some back bay.

Most of these memories have blurred over the years. All but for one, that is. Perhaps I was just the right age for remembering. Or maybe it was because it was the scariest night of my life.  Either way, the experience left its mark in my memory.  Whenever I go there in my mind, I am that little seven year old girl again. And the whole day and night come flooding back to me.

"There's a man in the tree!"
It was the last two days of a week long canoe trip. My mother, my father... and me. We were just coming off of the Manitou to North Tea Lake Portage in Algonquin Park. Our last night night was a scheduled stop on North Tea before carrying on, the next day, to the take out a few short portages away. Being a long weekend in the summer, campsites were scarce. My parents left me on the beach of a site, just around the corner from the last portage, while they paddled a short distance to see if any other sites were available closer to the next portage on our route. I was given strict instructions to stay on the beach. No swimming allowed and warned they would see me from their canoe if I misbehaved. They were going to be twenty minutes - maybe thirty - tops.

I made myself comfortable on the beach and began to sculpt the sand into some sort of Algonquin themed creation. Losing myself in play, my parents were back before I was done with my sand fun. It was still quite early in the day so my parents let me choose pancakes for lunch. Pitching the tent and other camp duties were tended to as I learned from my father that there wasn't any other available sites. I also learned that he wasn't sure if we should stay on North Tea Lake or not as there was a "bear warning" issued to all paddlers at the put in when we first arrived. But seeing as we had already started to unpack and set up camp, and nobody wanted to give up their last night in the park, the decision was already made.

My mother and father have paddled together since they were in their teens.

Soon we were settled in by the fire-pit and my mom began to mix up the pancakes. Dad lit up the old Coleman stove as we talked and prepared our meal. He was the best at making the pancakes. He would make make animal shapes and letters. Such fun to eat! It was a peaceful family moment that was suddenly interrupted by my mother's rather loud and excited exclamation "There's a man in the tree!" My father and I both glanced over in shock - as it would be the creepiest thing ever if there was some strange man staring at us, from a up a tree, in the middle of Algonquin's interior - long weekend or not!

Poppa Badger - or is it Indiana Jones?

However, my dad - upon seeing "the man" before I was able to -  quickly declared "That's not a man. That's a bear!" Which was quickly followed by "Grab me those pots and pans!" The bear, having been discovered in a tree just yards away from us, took his time making his way down it's trunk with incredible ease. He was obviously in no rush. That's when things became a bit scary. Loud noises usually scare bears away. But not this one. I remember feeling the chills coming off my father as EVERY TIME he banged the pots, the bear would stop... and (very) slowly turn around to look at us... Right in the eye. He would then give us a good stare down before turning back around and making his way to a trail that was to lead him deep into the forest. This showdown took place multiple times and the encounter didn't sit too well with my mother and father.

"We ain't seen no bears!"
There was some talk of the bear while we ate our flapjacks, which lead to a review in bear safety and a short visit by my dad to the neighbouring campsite - who was full of fisherman. This put my dad's mind at rest somewhat as he later told us the looks of their messy campsite was enough to convince him that if there was going to be any bear trouble - it would be at their camp site. But they had not seen any bears. So we took that as good news.

Little more was said in front of my little ears but I remember the tension. I also remember the night time routine being a bit different that particular evening. One of the biggest changes was the sudden appearance of a can of Naptha fuel by our tent entrance with a stick and the request for an old t-shirt from my father. He wanted to be able to have fire in a hurry and used the old t-shirt to wrap around the end of the stick to be used as a torch. I thought it was scary... but exciting. The other big change was the decision that I was to sleep BETWEEN my parents in the tent that night. And that hadn't happened since I could even remember! They also tethered me to my mother with some rope as an added precaution. To be honest, I have to admire my parents in this situation. They didn't want me to be frightened but they were honest enough with me that I was able to respect the seriousness of the situation. We had a bear in the area. And he didn't look like he was very afraid of humans.

My young parents along an unspecified portage in Algonquin.

Bears In And Out Of The Tent
Taking all the precautions we could (hanging our food, leaving a super clean camp site, no food or toiletries in the tent, Macgyver-ing a ready-to-go torch of sorts, etc.) we finally retired to the tent for the night. The tension was intense. My dad, clearly on edge, planned to keep going outside over the course of the night to keep the Coleman lantern filled and lit. Our senses were heightened and every sound was amplified by our anticipation of a visit from the bear. It took a long while for us to all fall asleep as every few seconds an acorn loudly dropped from its branch and terrified the living daylights out of us. And they were dropping every where constantly! But eventually, our ears got used to the random beat of the acorns and we were lulled to sleep.

My next memory is of my father's frightened voice "Mhairi! Mhairi! Give me the flashlight!" My father, unbeknownst to us, had awoken to a most terrifying experience. At that moment he believed he could actually feel the bear's cold wet nose on his arm. It was pitch dark and he was very afraid. The flashlight beam broke the darkness of the tent while at the same time the tension broke with my father's huge sigh of relief. "It's just a tree frog!" he half laughed, half whispered. "It must have hitched a ride on me when I went outside to refill the lantern..."  Some of the nervous energy was then released by our giggles. Sleep eluded us all for a bit longer, but after some time we were able to drift off again to the sound of the acorn drums.

A young Fiona at Captain Dennison's grave - East Arm of Lake Opeongo
(There were many bear sightings over the years there too!)

The last time I awoke that night was like a nightmare. There were voices. My mom's side of the tent was caving in. I was wide awake with fear....we all were. It was the BEAR. And it was S-L-O-W-L-Y dragging it's body along the wall our tent. We could see the curve of it's body crushing and stretching the thin material to it's limits. It wasn't cool or exciting anymore. It was just really scary. No. Scratch that. It was terrifying.

It was not an expected move by this bear. There had only been reports of the bear being sighted close to campsites. Not tents. This was extremely bold behaviour for this bear. Any bear. And it did not bode well for it's future. Or perhaps even ours! I cannot help but think today that perhaps my parent's instincts and animal safety knowledge helped us get out of the situation without it needlessly escalating. We only had clean clothes on and/or stored in the tent (no shirts with food spills or pants that had smelly fish hands wiped on them) that night. Therefore no scents to attract or tempt an animal. Our food was hung up high and our camp and fire pit was clean. And while we usually took these precautions anyway, we did make sure to go the extra mile in our efforts in this situation due to the unusual encounter with the bear previously that day. Perhaps if we were messy campers or unknowingly had toothpaste or even a chocolate bar stashed in our tent with us, things could have ended differently. But then again, none of precautionary measures we took would have mattered if the bear had suddenly decided our family was worth the effort to eat.

Too Dark To See
As it was, the bear moved away from our tent. At which time my father had his flashlight in one hand and his hatchet in the other (with his torch ready for lighting) and was looking out the screen of our temporary, thin-walled shelter. He watched the bear, within the small beam of his flashlight, walk past our fire pit and then disappear into the blackness of the forest on the other side of our camp. With our hearts beating and our voices hushed, we all desperately hoped the bear was gone.

You have to look really close, but there is a bear in this picture.
(Although most would claim it's just a black dot!)

Not being able to get back to a restful sleep again, worried that the bear was still out there - no matter what "reason" told us - we were up early and started to take down our camp. We all talked excitedly about our very close encounter even though each one of us was exhausted from not having slept properly. As much as I was against telling the Rangers, I could not convince my dad otherwise. I was afraid they were going to shoot the bear and my little girl mind could not bear the thought of it! I think I even cried a little bit. But my dad was right. The bear's behaviour was dangerous and our experience needed to be disclosed to the Ministry. Especially as this bear was known to them. I believe they even had a nickname for the bear, although neither my father nor I can recall that name now. I never got the chance to find out what happened to that bear. I'd like to think that he was trapped/relocated and the bear lived happily ever after. Yes, that's the little girl in me talking.

To this day, when I close my eyes, I can still feel the fear in that tent. Sometimes... it comes back to me when there are a few cracks too many in the dark bush around me... with me in my very thin-walled nylon fabric shelter and lightweight sleeping bag. But then I always think about that "cold wet nose"... and the tree frog. And I smile and go to sleep, thankful for another day spent in a canoe and in the bush.  I don't make a torch up but I do carry "Bear Spray" now.... you know, just in case.

Written by Fiona Westner-Ramsay of Badger® Paddles

An Algonquin Christmas Carol: Paddling in a Winter Wonderland

This "Algonquin Carol" is whistled (or can be sang!) to the tune of the famous Holiday Christmas Carol: "Walking In A Winter Wonderland". It is the same song, in every sense, but some of the lyrics have been reworked from the perspective of a paddler in Algonquin Park, Canada. We hope you enjoy this fun version of a classic carol.

Paddling in a Winter Wonderland

Link to YouTube video:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LP5qkx1fGYQ

(Lyrics reworked from Walkin in a Winter Wonderland)


Paddling in a Winter Wonderland

The wolves howl

are you listening

On river banks

snow is glistening 

A beautiful sight

We're happy tonight

Paddling in a winter wonderland. 

Gone away are the crowds now

The view is clear off of our bow 

I'll whistle a song, as we go along

Paddling in a winter wonderland. 

In the meadow there's a short portage

With a felled tree to walk around

I'll say: Are you tired? 

You'll say: No 'mam

I only feel the peace that we have found.

The north star draws even nearer

Reflected by the lake's mirror   

We drift on and away   

In Algonquin, we play

Paddling in this winter wonderland.

Seasons Greeting to our paddling friends around the world!

Mike and Fiona wish you all the best for this holiday season

and thank you for your support for Badger® Paddles this past year.

Have a merry holiday (however you celebrate) and a happy new year!

The Fat Paddler's 2011 Grab Life By The Shaft Tour - Algonquin Park Edition

As I walked with the canoe planted on my shoulders towards the water, I could hear Sean's excited declaration "It's so Canadian!". Sean was about to really paddle a Canadian lake for the first time*. It would also be his first taste of Algonquin. And he was more then ready for it.

The Fat Paddler's 2011 Grab Life By The Shaft Tour

- Algonquin Park Edition -

A Trip Report by Fiona Westner-Ramsay

"Thinking of a brief side-trip into Canada again"
When the email came thru from author and paddler, Sean Smith (a.k.a. The Fat Paddler), that he was thinking of coming to Canada again, this time with hopes to do some paddling while experiencing a much warmer season, it was hard to contain my excitement. His last attempt to paddle in Lake Ontario was during one of the coldest of our months (January) and, although it was beyond freezing, the very tough & hefty Auzzie did live to tell the tale. But this was the end of our summer season this time, and The Fat Paddler was about to be in for a real Canadian paddling treat!

He was picked up by my mom (a.k.a. Gramma Badger) at the Husky station in Bradford (on Saturday morning) and finally arrived around noon to be whisked away in the Badger® Paddles truck for a tour that included a stop at Algonquin Outfitters in Huntsville... and the very Canadian(??) Pizza Pizza franchise for a quick lunch.

"Can't take you to Algonquin without a trip to the Outfitters"
When we finally arrived at AO, Sean was delighted by the store and all it contained. Of course, he was able to sniff out the paddle section just like he can sniff out those sausages, and was soon drooling over the many paddles in the Algonquin Outfitters' racks.

Service with a smile:
Randy from AO -
Huntsville sports his
new Fat Paddler hat!

With Sean about to take on the Hawkesbury Canoe Classic again this October (111 km paddle thru-out the night, people!!) he was keen on getting a bent-shaft wide bladed paddle that was made from timber. He really liked the warmth and feel of timber over some of the other materials he was using and was wishing for the perfect paddle for this monster marathon. So it wasn't long before his eyes landed on a Whiskey Jack bent shaft paddle. But not just any Whiskey Jack. This particular paddle was laminated with some pieces of uniquely burled redwood. It was absolutely stunning!

When Randy offered Sean a deal he couldn't refuse (there are so many great sales going on at AO right now you wouldn't believe it!! Seriously, you gotta check it out!) Sean had to take the paddle home with him. Even though there was a distributor for Whiskey Jack in Australia, Sean knew he wouldn't come across a special paddle, as perfect for it's Hawkesbury purpose as it was beautiful, and so this one had to be his. So you can imagine how eager he was to put it to the test as soon as possible! (Check out FatPaddler's website for pictures and more details ... I don't want to ruin it for Sean... he'll want to show you all, himself!!!)

So we threw a Badger Paddle Sock on the paddle to protect his new (and beautiful) purchase and made our way to Algonquin Park. But first we had to make a stop at Swift Canoe at Oxtongue (just outside the Park) to pick up a canoe. Sean was not only lucky enough to be experiencing clear sunny skies, but he was also fortunate enough to meet Bill Swift, the owner and founder of Swift Canoe & Kayak.  Bill took some time with us and showed us some of the new Barracuda cloth samples (there was a turquoise that was to die for!) while we looked around at the canoes.  Then Beth, from Algonquin Outfitters, gave Sean a tour of the facilities which included a glimpse of the tripping/guiding gear rooms.

Upon arrival at the sunny Rock Lake Access Point.

Eventually, we picked up a Keewaydin and tied it down on the racks of the Badger® Paddles' truck. We were both hoping for a Swift Winisk but the boys were busy with lots of customers so Sean & I took what we could get and got on the road. There was a lake waiting to be explored, after all!

Blue Lake & Rocky Shore
When we arrived at the Rock Lake put in, we were both ready for a little paddling adventure. We packed the paddles (lots of 'em!), a safety kit, some drinking water, put on our PFD's and hit the water. Between the fresh air and the sunshine, Sean soon settled in as best as he could while I prattled on in the bow. But Sean, ever the gentleman, politely matched my conversation while he tried to take in all he could of his picturesque surroundings.

Enjoying the beauty of Rock Lake, Algonquin Park.

As Sean tested his new Whiskey Jack paddle, he also tried out a Badger® or two as well, as we paddled along. I used my Butternut Tripper for the entire trip as I always enjoy it's weightless feel. However, I was a bit disappointed when, as we made our way across the lake, I realized that we had yet to be lucky and spot any wildlife. As we crossed the second bay we were greeted by some ducks and a couple of loons. We also spotted a small heron as well, on the river to the take out, but no beavers or moose. There was a chipmunk later in the day, but it was so small & fast that Sean could barely spot it before it scurried away. At least we didn't see any bears! (However there is a black dog at the Wolf's Den that, at a quick glance and with the right Canadian accent warning of it's approach, could easily be mistaken for a Black Bear.... right Sean?!!) *giggle*

Unfortunately I started to feel a bit queazy around this time and suggested we head back, trying to steer the canoe in the straightest and therefore quickest route possible back to the take out. I had yet to share how bad I was feeling with Sean but he had a good sense of humour about being steered from the bow and voiced no objections... but perhaps there was a bit of laughter on his part... but only once, okay... maybe twice! But that had more to do with my "oversteering" then anything else! *giggle* What can I say... I was woozy!

The Beaver Cabin at the
Wolf's Den Hostel & Retreat

The Beaver (Cabin, that is!)
Once we arrived back at the truck, we were on our way to the Wolf's Den. Sean grabbed a quick nap en route, crink-ing his neck a bit in the process (poor guy!). When we arrived at the Beaver Cabin/Wolf's Den, Mike was there to meet us. His big truck was empty of the canoes and without the large trailer that he had been pulling all day (doing the canoe transfers for the big Petawawa Ironman Challenge this week), but Mike was full of excitement to see his Australian friend again.

It didn't take long for the steaks to be cooked on the BBQ and the Canada Dry Ginger Ale (special ordered by the Fat Paddler) to be mixed with a little bit of rum and a lime or two... to "keep the scurvy away".

After some great conversation, lots of laughs, and even some guitar playing by Sean (who was awesome by the way...  make our ears bleed, indeed! Pish Posh!!!), we eventually retired for the evening. Sean took the bunk beds (what are the chances he chose the top bunk, anyone?!!) and Mike and I took the bedroom with the queen sized bed.  We were all quick to fall asleep as Sean was completely jet-lagged, Mike was exhausted from a week of canoe transfers, and I was now under the full influence of some sort of cough or virus.

These two trucks and trailers are carrying 94 canoes!
(And that was just one transfer of many this past week for Mike.)

Change of *cough* Plans *cough cough*
The morning came soon enough with Mike on his way out the door before the sun was up. Sean and I slept in past nine and made haste to get our things packed and on our way before checkout time. Unfortunately, we had to change our plans for the day as I didn't have the energy to paddle to Ragged Falls as we wanted due to the way I was feeling. Instead, we headed to Buck Lake (our local lake) and Sean paddled around cottage country in Poppa Badger's kayak , while I feel asleep in the sun. But not before a quick stop at a local tourist trap for a short shopping trip... 'cause that's just tradition, right?!!

The only bear that Sean encountered on his first
trip to Algonquin Park, Canada.
Note the complete lack of fear in his eyes.

In the end, we wished Sean could have stayed longer, and in my foggy muddy mind (I was really feeling the cold/cough by this time) I know I failed in my hostess duties that day. But Sean was the perfect guest and road-trip companion. Never a complaint or frown. And before I knew it, with a quick hug and a gentlemanly kiss on my cheek, Sean was off with Gramma Badger to find his next adventure with Alan Drummond, the crew of LearnToKayakdotCA, ... and beyond.

Roll the Credits
I would like to thank Jim of H20 Paddles for dropping Sean at the Husky for pick up on Saturday as well as the staff at Algonquin Outfitters (especially Randy, Lynn, Beth and Gord) and the boys at Swift Canoe (Bill and Brian) for making Sean feel so welcome on his first ever visit to Algonquin. That goes for Ben (and the visitors) at the Wolf's Den too!

Also, a great big fat THANK YOU to my mom (a.k.a. Gramma Badger) who graciously stepped up to help out with not only watching Makobe but with watching over Sean, as well. We couldn't have done this awesome tour of Algonquin & area without your support and talent for driving! *wink* I hope you enjoy Sean's book... I know you have it with you somewhere on Opeongo (Algonquin Park) right now!

Plus a big thanks to Rebecca (Grace and Ella too) for sharing Sean with us for a few extra days with a side-trip to Canada. But the biggest thanks is to the Fat Paddler, himself, Mister Sean P. Smith.... your friendship is something that I will cherish forever, as well as the memories of your visit. Please know the pleasure was all mine but I do hope you enjoyed Algonquin as much as we all do. Mike and I both also hope your remaining travels are enjoyable, fruitful, and that you arrive safely back into the arms of your family at your tour's end.

So What's The Fat Paddler Really Like?
To those of you who wonder what Sean is really like: Well... what can I say, really, other then read the book... and just know that you would love him if you ever meet him.  And never doubt, regardless of the adversity Sean has faced, that this is a man who truly knows how to grab life by the shaft!!! Paddle on, Fat Paddler! Paddle on!

Oh, and be sure to check out The Fat Paddler's page on Facebook for a FREE ENTRY CODE to the Algonquin Outfitters' Live Your Own Adventure Contest (over $10,000 worth of prizes to be won - including a Swift Canoe, Badger Paddles, a kayak, some hiking boots, a mountain bike and so... so much more!).  Click here for your free Fat Paddler code now! Plus head on over to the Badger® Paddles website for another FREE ENTRY CODE here: Live Your Adventure Contest Code via Badger® Paddles. What a great way to celebrate The Fat Paddler's Algonquin adventure and North American Tour - Thanks Algonquin Outfitters!!!

*Sean's (The Fat Paddler) first attempt to paddle a [near frozen] Canadian Lake can be found here: http://fatpaddler.com/2011/01/canoe-paddling-in-toronto-with-badger-paddles/ with Mike's (Badger® Paddles) account to be found here: http://badger-canoe-paddles.blogspot.com/2011/02/fatpaddler-in-toronto-trip-report.html

Badger Paddles' Tip of the Week - Increase Your Chance of Observing Wildlife

Badger Paddles' Tip of the Week includes information on paddling, camping, portaging, boat transport, and maintenance tips, as well as any other information that we may find to be useful around our sett.


"You have to do what you can, do your best with what you are. And you have to believe in wilderness. If you do that you can’t go wrong." – Kirk Albert Walter Wipper


Increasing Your Chances Of Viewing Wildlife In Their Natural Habitat:
Growing up spending summer holidays interior camping in Algonquin Park with my parents, I (Fiona) had the opportunity to view lots of fauna in their natural habitat. Over the years we have had the pleasure (and luck) to view many a Black Bear, Moose, Deer, Fox, Rabbit, Raccoon, and many other forest creatures as well as the Loon, Wood Ducks, Turkey Vultures, Eagles, Ravens, Heron, Grouse, Mink, and more. Some of these creatures we happened upon unwittingly and to the surprise of all parties involved. Others we waited for hours to see, tucked away in our boats in the swamp of some back bay. If you are wanting to see wildlife on your trip into any wilderness region, the following tips will definitely help to increase your chance of success... so get your camera ready!

Not far from our campsite, we found a small snake den.

Time of Day:
Although it is possible to spot an animal at 2 in the afternoon, it is much more likely have success if you watch for wildlife at dawn and at dusk. I cannot remember all the countless evenings, and the very early hours after dawn, when we sat in a swamp, not uttering a word (sometimes giggling either from the boredom of the silent wait - or my Grandfather's soft snoring - which really annoyed my Grandmother). And so we waited... and waited... and waited for some creature... any creature... to come to to water's edge from the dark and silent forest. Thankfully, we were rewarded many times for our efforts. And in my impressionable youth, I was altered by each and every experience in some small way. A love for the wilderness was really getting deep into my blood.

Scanned picture of old photo of a moose
(from Fiona's younger years). Taken at dusk.

Be Quiet, Be Still, Be Patient:
At a place like Algonquin Park, if you sit quietly in a small bay (or even at your campsite) for 15 to 20 minutes, you will have a much better chance of spotting a wild bird or mammal. You will also realize just how loud and hungry those mosquitoes can sound! But remember: no sudden movements. Even to lift your arm to scratch your nose can make noise that an animal can hear (clothing brushing against itself). Try to keep all movement and sound to a minimum and speak in whispers if possible. If the animal doesn't notice you at first, enjoy the moment. Because as soon as you click that camera or cause any motion or other disturbance, they will be aware of your presence - and therefore change their behaviour (or most likely move away from the area and you).

This grouse thinks he is still camouflaged by his surroundings.

Location, Location, Location:
In Algonquin, it is not unheard of seeing a moose or bear* walk right thru your camp site. But you will probably increase your chances by finding a bog, field or shoreline to follow. Animals go were people go. Explore beyond your campsite, walk a trail, portage, or old logging road and you will see lots of signs of animals because animals use the same trails as we do. If you see an animal while you are driving, remember to stop and pullover off the road (there is no need to block traffic or create a dangerous situation for other drivers). As for more natural environments,  meadows or flat low lying wet areas like swamps or muskegs, are great places to watch for wildlife. When you paddle, staying close to shorelines is also a great tip or choose to do a river. In larger Ontario parks, don't be surprised if you spot a beaver, martin or even a little mink along the shore. We have!

Swamps and wetlands are prime locations for wildlife.

Bionic Eyes:
This tip is to remind you to bring binoculars. You will be thankful to get an extra close up view of the wildlife without invading their space - they will linger longer if you respect them from a distance. Note: it is possible that a camera's zoom feature will also let you see more detail.

Herons are shy and amazingly prehistoric looking.

Converse with a Local Outfitter or Old Boy:
Talking with a popular and knowledgable Outfitter, like Algonquin Outfitters, or an Old Boy**, can give you a great window into the best places to view the regional wildlife. For example, they can tell you things like how: "Fill In Name Here" Trail has lots of deer at a particular time of the year; or "Fill In Name Here" Lake has plenty of moose in the back east bay after the first inlet; or even that Highway gets lots of moose along the road side in the Spring licking the salt from the winter roads, etc., etc.

Algonquin Outfitters is a perfect example of a local resource
for local wildlife viewing tips and best locations for success.

The Bigger, The Better:
When there is a larger habitat left intact, there is a much better chance of spotting a wildlife. Larger parks or conservations areas are better then smaller ones. And usually, the deeper the route takes you into the interior of a large park, the less people and the more wildlife you will encounter. In the years that we have been wilderness camping, we have countless memories of many a bear, sometimes even with cubs, and deer with their young too. We have seen a loon fight an innocent but confused wayward moose to drive it away from it's nest. We have witnessed deer drink by the shore's edge and disappear the moment they noticed we were there. We have watched moose dive for it's food at the bottom of a lake. We've seen families of ducks, loons and even some mice. We have watched a bear swim from one island to the next in search of food. We have been surrounded by a swarm of Tiger Swallow Tail butterflies and watched a fox romp playfully thru a field. We have accidentally startled sleeping bears at Captain Dennison's old farm on Opeongo (Algonquin) and have been shocked into fright by countless partridge on numerous portages. We have heard a jackrabbit scream and the cries of a wolf pack. We have seen snakes, frogs, crayfish and some crazy big leaches. We've had a bear drag it's body down the length of the tent we were sleeping in on Tea Lake (Algonquin) and have even experienced that moose that walks thru campsites. We've watched beaver work and otters play. My father (a.k.a. Poppa Badger) has even been lucky enough to actually see the elusive wolf. Most, if not all of these events, took place in large parks and conservation areas like Algonquin, Temagami, and Quetico.

A doe and fawn by the water's edge.

Luck Be A Lady:

In the end, you will also need a little bit of luck. You won't always be successful. More often then not, you will come away without a close-up wildlife experience even if you do everything right. But don't give up. In my personal opinion, one of the most pleasurable experiences about canoeing and camping - in most parts of Canada - is being able to view and co-exist with the local wildlife. Seeing a moose, unaware, tromp down to the shore edge of a bog, and make his way into the water walking thru the deep mud without a struggle, is a surprisingly exhilarating experience. One you will never forget. And if you follow these tips, you too, may be lucky (like we have been) and will experience many chances to see wildlife in their natural habitat, enjoying their existence as the free creatures they were born to be.

Fiona was so inspired by her wildlife encounters that she took to painting

wilderness scenes on canoe paddles when she was in her late teens.

See more examples of her work here: Badger Paddle Art Gallery

Do you have any tips to share? Send us your tips and paddling advice - and if your tip is featured here - we will send you a free Badger Paddles sticker!!! All you have to do is email us your suggestions.


*It is also not unheard of to have a bear visit your camp in the middle of the night to pilfer your edibles if he/she can. Never try to attract animals with food. And don't try to domesticate any critters by teaching them to feed from your hand. Keep your supplies in a smell proof container and make your site as bear/critter proof as is possible. 

** An "Old Boy", as Mike refers to them, is a euphemism for an older gentleman who is known to be a long time resident and who has years (and years) of local knowledge and interesting (and not so interesting) facts about the area. Old Boys can often be lured into a conversation with the offer of a cold beer.