Testimonials - Getting To The Heart Of It

We have received many heartwarming emails from paddlers over the past few years about their Badger® paddle(s). Some even ended up serving as testimonials. Some of these testimonials make us feel pride in our work and relationships with other paddlers, others have wowed us, a couple have made us smile, one or two made us laugh, and the most recent messages received actually made us tear up with emotion!

It may sound a little weird to think that a customer testimonial could make a business owner laugh or get all teary eyed, but it happens! Especially when we put so much thought and effort into each paddle and what (in our case Badger®) our business stands for.... when each thing we do or make contains so much of us, ourselves. It becomes.... well.... it becomes very personal. For us, there really is a piece of ourselves in every paddle we make. So, yes, sometimes a person's reaction can evoke pretty strong emotions for an artisan. I can say this because I speak from experience. It really means a lot to us when our customers, clients, and friends, share their experiences and thoughts with us about Badger®.

Here is a small collection of those testimonials and messages that fall into some of the categories referred to above:

Read Sean Smith's full review here:Badger® Paddles Review - Fatpaddler.com

We first were wowed by the great and lengthy review from The Fatpaddler. We felt really lucky to have made it onto ( author and paddling adventurer) Sean Smith's radar. As fans of Sean's, and followers of The Fatpaddler blog, we were really excited to see our paddles in the hands of someone "down-under" and a welcomed part of Fatpaddler's web-based chronicle. (Besides writing the popular blog, Sean also wrote a book depicting his near-death experiences, his struggle within the abyss of depression, and finding his way out again with the help of taking up paddling and the support of his new and loving family. It is inspirational and a "must read"!)
Read Sean Smith's full review here: Badger® Paddles Review - Fatpaddler.com

But then... We were wowed again when we received this testimonial from Hap Wilson, artist, author, environmentalist, photographer and the Eco Trailbuilder, himself! Both Mike and I had read Hap's work and used his Temagami Guide book (the "bible" for canoe tripping in Temagami, ON) for years, and were in awe of his powerful history, his fascinating life and his impressive accomplishments.

"In this age of 'techno-gear' you don't often come across any hand-made products that really stand out. Badger Paddles is the exception. ... Every avid paddler needs a 'real' paddle, and I love my Badger" ~Hap Wilson

Read Hap Wilson's full testimonial here: Badger® Paddles Customer Testimonials

We were just this past week also given another surprise testimonial from Hap Wilson, this time by way of an illustration to be published in his new Trans Canada Trail Path of the Paddle Guidebook. One of the scenes decorating the iconic map for the Maukinak Trail actually depicts two Digger paddles! WOW!

Take a look here: Maukinak Trail Map ~ Hap Wilson - Eco Trailbuilders.

Also... Mike Wenholz sent us a testimonial message a while back, and it made us smile really big!

"I bought a Sliver in cherry, and really like the paddle.  It's the first otter tail-style paddle I have owned.  I have been learning to paddle the canadian stroke, knifing the paddle back through the water on the recovery, often keeping the paddle in the water the entire stroke.  This paddle has made learning this stroke much easier.

Also, while battling significant whitecaps that were coming from two directions (across the lake and down an angling bay) the length of the paddle made it possible for me to keep us headed in the right direction with speed by reaching out wide to steer us through the angling waves." ~Mike Wenholz

Read Mike's full testimonial here: Badger® Paddles Customer Testimonials

Scott's made us smile big too, we love when people feel the strength of our paddles:
“I've used the paddle on some trips. I must say I love it!
It's solid, sturdy and it produces power.
 I had little trouble fighting the current of the Vermilion River.” ~ Scott H.

We definitely felt a sense of pride when we read the following comments from Roger Parnis:

Photo credit: Roger Parnis

"Hi Fiona and Mike, I just got back from a 3 day trip to Little Trout Lake and I wanted to let you know how impressed I was with the paddle you made for me. The oil rub on the handle and shaft make it grip wet or dry. This was the most important feature to me. I found I had more power and control over the canoe than my previous paddle. The glossy finish on the blade looks great on my wall too! So it's the best piece of gear I've bought in a long time. Thank you." ~ Roger Parnis

But then there was the Angelina testimonial from Marcus:

"Had a new paddle arrive this week,a Badger Paddles Sliver. Shape wise it's an elongated ottertail,the timber is cherry. It's the Angelina Jolie of the paddle world,very long,very lean and totally sexy!! Using it is an absolute joy,very easy to move through the water,very slick it made underwater recovery very very easy.I was also surprised at the speed I managed from it." ~M. Grose

Marcus Grose's testimonial came at the same time that Angelina Jolie was in the news for sticking her leg out from under her highly split dress at the Oscars. There was even a Twitter account made for it called @AngiesRightLeg. So we couldn't help but laugh out loud when we read Marcus' comment regarding the association between the sexy Angela Jolie and our paddles! Right away the wacky thought of Angelina's famous right leg becoming a paddle came to mind. I (Fiona) sent Marcus the image (see the Angelina picture on left) for a laugh after receiving his email. I still smile when I think about that "very long, very lean and totally sexy" Badger paddle leg and the wonderful testimonial Marcus sent us. Thanks Marcus!!!
Read Marcus' full testimonial here: Badger® Paddles Customer Testimonials

Another great review came from Nige Ayers (founder of the Simply Canoe and C-wav) complete with pictures which can be read here: Badger Sliver In The U.K. Thanks again Nige!

But the one unexpected testimonial that made both of us (Mike and I) actually tear up was this message just recently received from Ian. He took note of all the things that matter most to Mike and I as paddlers, paddle-makers, and outdoor enthusiasts:

“there's a lot of ideas about paddles out there -- i'm just advocating for things as i see 'em -- i notice little things, the subtle thickening of the shaft just before the blade, fine edges on the sides, stoutness still at the blade end, a well grained wood in a solid serviceable, not show-room-gloss finish, -- i see a lot of over-engineered laminate and composite paddles, or the clever and finely finished furniture grade pieces...i mean, they are nice, and i appreciate them for what they are -- but there is an elegant functional simplicity to (my) badger paddle that really works for me -- i wouldn't mind hanging it on my wall or snubbing off a rock in mild moving water mid-expedition. one the fantastic things about canoeing is the intersection between simplicity, aesthetic, and solid functionality and the badger paddle hits it dead centre...then factor in being able to banter 'bout paddle-stuff at a show with the paddle-maker...that's almost master-card priceless...” ~Ian Hanna

This hand painted ambigram paddle also came
with a laser engraved sparkly blue peace sign and
a personally written message to "Saffyr" from her Uncle's
own hand. This ambigram says "Saffyr" one way and
"Peace" when looked at from another angle.
Besides being one of Fiona's most favourite
commissions ever, it also led to a very cute
and personal video message that us Badgers will never forget!

But, truly, when all is said and done, one of our most favourite paddler portageur testimonials ever, came by way of a personal "surprise" video from Preston of Portageur.ca* starring his sixteen year old paddling and portaging niece Saffyre (a.k.a. "Saffyr" - belonging to the next great generation of paddlers portageurs) whose thankful smile stole our hearts, made us laugh, made me (Fiona) shed a tear, and helped us become truly aware of how thankful we are for being able to connect with such wonderful people like "Saffyr Peace" and YOU!

So a heartfelt thank you to all of our paddling friends who have taken the time to write to us and tell us how much they genuinely dig their paddles. Everyone of you has impacted our lives and business in a way that we will be forever grateful for. Thank you. No really... THANK YOU!!!

Written by Fiona Westner-Ramsay

*Scroll to near the bottom of this Portageur.ca blog posting (Christmas gift ideas) to read the short back story on this very special paddle for his very special paddling niece.

Dig This :: Authentic Canoe Paddle Necklaces

lil'Badger Paddle Key Chains

We've seen the paddle inspired jewelry out there - and we dig it! But what we dig even more is the inspiration paddle themed jewelry has on us when we are not able to get out on the water. Fiona feels that looking at her lil'paddle key chain during a trip to the big city helps to remind her of a way of life that we cherish. So now we have taken that inspiration to another level with our authentic canoe paddle necklaces (and key chains).

Made from an actual slice from a real wood canoe paddle, our necklaces and keychains are all crafted by hand in the heart of cottage country (Muskoka, Canada). Most are sliced from the shaft area (and into the neck and/or grip of the paddle as well). And... just like a real Badger Paddle, these paddle slices/pendants come as oiled, varnished, or even as our trademark WaterColours finish!

Paddle slices in progress of becoming pendants.

We sand each little slice by hand (or paw).

Crafted by hand, each paddle slice pendant is unique.

Authentic Canoe Paddle Necklaces can be found at AO.

Each necklace cord is tied with a double fisherman's knot (to allow for various sizing) and some also include an extra wood finished bead (we will have glass beads accents by AdR Beads coming soon too!).

COMING SOON: AdR Glass Bead Accents
AdR Glass Beads are hand made in Perth by Amy deRidder
(She is an autism mom too - like Fiona!)

Portageur.ca and Nancy dig their paddle slice keychain!

Visit or contact Algonquin Outfitters to purchase your very own one-of-a-kind (real) paddle necklaces - just delivered yesterday!!! (If you can dig it!) Price: $19.98 CAD (taxes/shipping extra where applicable). Or you can contact us too - we don't mind being badgered...

Muskoka Magazine - "It's A Family Affair For Paddle Makers"

This past February we were contacted by the editor of Muskoka Magazine wanting to do a feature about our family business in Muskoka. As you can imagine, they did not have to badger us to say yes to the article. While, at first, it may look like a piece about a business, if you read it, you will see it is actually a bit of a love story! You can read it online with a trial subscription at www.muskokamagazine.com (follow the links on their website) - or buy it locally at a Muskoka area shop near you - if you can dig it!

Read Muskoka Magazine online with a trial subscription.

Kelly from The Shutterbug Gallery taking photos for the
Muskoka Magazine Feature on Badger Paddles for their July issue.

Thanks to Claudia Laroche (the author, Sandy (the editor) and Kelly (the photographer) and Graeme (the national athlete) for such an amazing day - and for the wonderful memories that will be sure to last our life time!

SAVE WOLF LAKE - Silent Email Paddle Auction

UPDATE: Note: Auction is now closed: Winning bid to Bert P. of Peterborough Ontario, Canada - $300 was RAISED and forwarded to the Wolf Lake Coaliton!!! Thanks to everyone who signed the petition(s), shared the information, and to those who bid. The fight continues to Save Wolf Lake...

As you may (or may not) be aware, Wolf Lake, (Temagami area - Ontario, Canada) is not only a world renowned canoeing and wilderness area but it is also home to the world's largest old growth Red Pine forest. Right now, Wolf Lake is in great need of protection from the mining industry. And the government is going to decide the future of this precious forest this week! (Take action NOW to persuade the Minister to make the right choice and help save Wolf Lake here: SaveWolfLake.org)

Trees or rusty pipes? You can help decide the fate of Wolf Lake!

Read the Wolf Lake Coalition Report that exposes two decades of errors and omissions behind the failure to protect Temagami’s Wolf Lake here: Wolf Lake Report: 10 Reasons To Protect Wolf Lake Forever

As part of the Wolf Lake Coalition, we would like to help raise a bit of money, to help pay for some of the costs incurred and associated with fighting for the preservation of this important eco-system. To do so we are going to auction off one lot (see lot description below) with 100% of the funds going to the Wolf Lake Coalition.

TO BE AUCTIONED:

LOT 1 of 1

1 Badger® Paddle - 57" Ash Tripper - Oiled Finish

1 Badger® Paddle Sock

1 250 mL Tin - Badger® Wood Oil

1 Badger® Toque

1 Badger® Pendant Necklace

Shipping - up to $50 included.*

(Approximate Retail Value: $200.00 Canadian Funds)

Minimum/Reserve Bid = $100.00 Canadian Funds

*The cost of shipping the paddle, etc., is included - but only up to $50 CAD. Auction winner will be responsible for any and all shipping and/or duty costs over and above $50.00 CAD.

Lot 1 of 1 - Silent Email Auction for the Save Wolf Lake Coalition.
Note: Auction is now closed: Winning bid to Bert P. of Peterborough
Ontario, Canada - $300 RAISED!!! Thanks to everyone who signed
the petition(s), shared the information, and to those who bid!

How to Bid:
This auction is a "silent email auction" that will end Wednesday May 30th (Wolf Lake Wednesday) at midnight (our local time) with the greatest bid as the winner. As a silent auction, all bids will be kept confidential with only the winning bid being announced after the close of the auction.

Send your "silent email bid" to Fiona at badgercontests@me.com or use our email form here: Contact Badger Paddles Remember - this is NOT a contest - this is a charitable auction and payment will be required.

NOTE: Lot to be shipped upon receipt of payment (details to be discussed with auction winner). Only serious bids will be considered. All bids must be in Canadian funds. Remember: Minimum/Reserve Bid = $100.00 Canadian Funds.

Whether you bid or not, PLEASE take the time to sign the petition or take action here: Save Wolf Lake.

And please share this auction far and wide - it is a for a great cause. Remember, the entire lot has been donated by Badger Paddles and therefore 100% of the money raised by this auction will be going to help save Wolf Lake. Thanks for your help and thanks for digging the earth!

Badger @ Canoecopia: A Behind the Scenes Look (Part 2)

Our Canoecopia back-story in pictures... continued. For a look at Part 1 - see: Badger @ Canoecopia: A Behind the Scenes Look (Part 1).

Along the road to Canoecopia 2012 - about 14 hours by truck - one way.

Getting the booth set up at our first Canoecopia.

Mike did the entire booth set up all by himself.

Nova Craft's Jackson Pollock inspired art canoe.
Photo credit: Preston Ciere of portaguer.ca
To read Preston's Canoecopia report (and we highly recommend
that you do!) see:Canoecopia 2012 (part 1) and
Canoecopia 2102 - Part 2

Jackson Pollock inspired art paddles with Nova Craft Canoe.
(See these paddles in progress here: Badger @ Canoecopia: (Part 1)

The doors are open and the show begins!
Photo credit: Preston Ciere of portaguer.ca
To read Preston's Canoecopia report (and we highly recommend
that you do!) see:Canoecopia 2012 (part 1) and
Canoecopia 2102 - Part 2

Canoecopia attendee Donna shares a smile with our Mike over
a couple of "Reverse Splash WaterColours" Paddles.
(customer supplied photo)

Mike talking "flex" with a few listeners.
Photo credit: Preston Ciere of portaguer.ca
To read Preston's Canoecopia report (and we highly recommend
that you do!) see:Canoecopia 2012 (part 1) and
Canoecopia 2102 - Part 2

Plus, check out Mike's interview with Scott McGregor of Rapid Media TV where they talk about our colourful paddles for kids, cubs, and adults too!

A big Badger thanks to Darren and Stephanie Bush for their wonderful hospitality, and to the rest of the Rutabaga and Canoecopia staff for all their great help and hard work in making this event come to life! Plus thank you all who came out to support Badger® Paddles this year - we really couldn't do any of this without you. Hope to see you all there next year!!!

Badger® 2012 T-Shirts Now Available!

Badger Paddles T-shirts - $25.00 ea. CAD (**tax/shipping extra)
Limited Time Offer:
Buy one for only $20.00 ea. CAD** until March 31, 2012.

When we put up our "Profits of Paddling"infographic online, we were truly overwhelmed by it's positive reception. It was shared over 3000 times across Facebook alone (according to our Page's Administrator Facebook Analytical Statistics). That's a lot of shares! It even ended up on a number of blogs thru-out the paddling world. Many of you even requested we make it into a Badger® T-shirt - so we did!

We were pleasantly surprised when so many people liked this infographic.

And so the good news is:

Our Badger® T-shirts are now available for purchase.

Our MSRP is $25.00 CAD (shipping/taxes extra)

BUT...

Because our followers (you) on Twitter and Facebook were instrumental in getting this t-shirt design to print - we are announcing a limited time offer and will be selling them for the "Special Thank You Price" of only $20.00 ea. CAD (tax/shipping extra) in thanks to you all! But only until the end of March, 2012 - after that the price is back to $25.00 so don't miss out. (While supplies last - Special offer ends March 31, 2012.)

Sizes available: Small, Medium, Large, Extra-Large

Available colour: BLACK (with white print)

Contact Fiona by email to find out how to buy your "Profits of Paddling"shirt today. Plus don't forget to enter our Badger Your Friends Contest for your chance to win one of these very t-shirts, a Badger® Canoe Paddle, and much much more!!!

Note: The Badger Profits of Paddling T-shirts will also be available thru Algonquin Outfitters this Spring.

Badger DIGS Canoecopia 2012

This paddle (set) - close up view - will be unveiled at Canoecopia with
Nova Craft's Jackson Pollock inspired abstract art canoe.

Nova Craft's Jackson Pollock inspired abstract art canoe.

This is a very special season for us at Badger® Paddles. We almost felt like we "got a golden ticket" when we received our invitation to attend Rutabaga's renowned Canoecopia this year. Not only will this be our first official booth at a trade show or event, but this is also our first real official debut in the U.S. and we could not be more excited. It almost feels like it did the time Badger® attended our first ever event at the Swift Canoe & Kayak's Guelph Lake Sale only a few years ago.

Hand painted paddles that will be
available at Canoecopia 2012

But this time, instead of just 6 styles of oiled paddles, Badger® Paddles has grown to include WaterColours™(colourfully tinted solid wood canoe paddles for kids or adults), combination finish paddles (the best of both worlds - a varnished blade with and oiled shaft/grip), Badger® Wood Oil, T-shirts, Badger® toques (hat), and more! Plus, unlike when we first launched, now every adult length  Badger® Paddle includes it's own Badger® Paddle Sock - a sock that will protect and stretch to fit almost any style paddle you have in your collection up to 65" in length - not just your Badger® Paddle.

Combination finished paddles -
varnished blade with oiled shaft/grip.

We are really having as much fun with this event as we can so be sure to stop by the Badger® Paddles booth and say hello to Mike and check out some of the hand painted paddles Fiona has done for this special occasion - including the Jackson Pollack inspired art paddles to be unveiled with Nova Craft's abstract art canoe (see above photos).

So if you want to just talk paddling, or have questions about how our paddles are made, or are interested in purchasing a paddle from it's maker, then Mike will be more then happy to chat with you. Just look for the Badger® Paddles booth. Canoecopia is held annually in Wisconsin, U.S.A. by Rutabaga. This year Canoecopia will be the weekend of March 9 - 11th. For more information and/or tickets, please visit www.canoecopia.com. Or read the 2012 Canoecopia Gazette. Hope to see you there if you can dig it!

The Profits of Paddling: An Info Graphic

Many of us already realize the personal profits of paddling, but for those who are not aware, we have provided this handy illustration of the "facts". Please feel free to share this image with anyone you feel would dig it!

Update: Since posting this image, we have received lots and lots of positive feedback (not to mention almost 3000 shares just on Facebook alone!), however there is one question that seems to pop up, over and over again, that we would like to address here.

For those of you who are NOT in the know.... the centre thwart/yoke removal is based on a couple of - somewhat famous - quotes:

"A true Canadian is one who can make love in a canoe without tipping."

Pierre Berton

"Anyone can make love in a canoe,

it’s a Canadian who knows enough to take out the centre thwart!"

Philip Chester

And so now, you are all in the know!!! For those of you who might be interested, based on the popularity of this fun info graphic, we will be ordering up some t-shirts promptly!!!

_______________________________________

Note: a big thanks to the artist or team who created the Benefits of Bicycles infographic. When Fiona's friend shared this infograhic photo on his Facebook profile at the end of January this year, Fiona was immediately inspired to create one for paddlers. After all, any form of the power of self propulsion is to be celebrated!

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

5 Reasons To Get Your Own Paddle According to A Passionate Portageur and Paddling Pooch

The following article was written by paddler, "portageur", best friend to Nancy, and blogger; Preston Ciere of the informative website, Portageur.ca. It is entitled: Get Your Own Paddle... where Preston - and Nancy - walk us thru 5 great reasons to possess and use your own canoe or kayak paddle(s). Thanks to Preston for allowing us to publish the following post, but an especially big thanks to Nancy, the loveable and loyal paddling pooch - who looks as comfortable paddling in her PFD as she does running the portages with Preston. We know this great article was all her idea!

Preston Ciere with his loveable
 and loyal paddling partner, Nancy.

Preston was born in Hamilton, Ontario. As a young child, he would wander off into the woods looking for what was out there, and has never really grown out of that. He spends every chance he can get wandering around the Ontario wilderness. When back in the city, he spends half his time entertaining other. He started his website as an outlet to tell his tales to the right audience. He’s also particularly funny and when not portaging enjoys writing in the third person.

Nancy was born somewhere in Louisiana (probably), and after migrating north into Canada, bulked up to become the ideal portageur. Her job is threefold: reconnaissance, security and ambassadorship. She stays alert to keep her group aware of any present dangers, especially small critters that would otherwise surely steal supplies. She’s always paving the way along and around the perimeter of portages, scouting the route for any dangers and showing the group how to get past obstacles – though she often forgets the lesser skills of her comrades. Of course the greatest asset she brings is her natural ability to greet new friends along the trails and rivers.  As a trade off to these skills, she rarely carries anything, and paddles even less, but all things considered, no one ever minds.

Guest Badger Blogger, Preston (and Nancy) Ciere,
www.portageur.ca (Ontario, Canada)

Preston and Nancy lookin' cool in a canoe that has seen many miles.

Get your own paddle!

5 reasons why having your own

makes for a better paddling experience

After the movie “The Color of Money” came out, thousands of pool halls were filled with people walking in carrying a little case under their arms. They’d look down their mirrored sunglasses, pop it open and screw together their custom cue, peering around at who was watching them - no doubt, with “Werewolves of London” playing in their head. This was an annoying new trend to say the least - especially when once they started to play it became obvious that a custom cue didn’t make them any good. 

Paddling is nothing like pool (for one thing, you don’t want anything to sink). Having your own paddle has nothing to do with showing off, and isn’t just a luxury for professionals. It’s more about comfort and preference - making your paddling trips as enjoyable as possible. Admittedly, like a custom cue, it will make also you feel pretty cool. 

1 - Better than the rentals
Generally, when you rent a canoe it comes with paddles. So why would you want your own? Well, the paddles you get when renting a canoe are not the greatest. More often than not they’re those small bladed plastic and aluminum ones that dig little water, so they’re slow and offer little control. They’re also terribly uncomfortable, without the give of wood, or shaped to fit your hand properly. The odd time you’ll get yourself a nice wooden paddle - or one that may have been nice a few years ago. If you’re lucky it may be in a size and style that suits your needs, but usually rental paddles are pretty generic, not to mention scratched and worn from years of use.

2 - There’s a paddle for that
How do you paddle, and why? Getting yourself the right paddle for your style of paddling makes for a great experience. For example, ask yourself whether you are more of a “Destination” or “Journey” kind of person. If it’s all about just getting somewhere as quickly as possible, you may want a wider bladed paddle. On the other hand, if you plan on spending more time floating around exploring than where you’ll eventually end up, you may want a longer but thinner blade for control. Run a lot of rapids? Travel long distances? Prefer to be in the stern or the bow? There are paddle styles to suit all those needs. Talk to a good paddle maker and they’ll recommend something to suit your style. 

3 - Get a grip
A truly under-rated element of the paddle is the grip. If you’re going to do a lot of paddling, a nice comfortable grip is what is going to make the experience much more pleasant. Cheap paddles and rentals will have very basic grips designed to just do the job, leaving you with sore hands and blisters. Look for a paddle with a nice contoured shape that feels good in your hands. Pick it up and take some air strokes so you can judge how good the shaft feels as well - too thin or too thick might make for hand cramps. The best part of having your own paddle is that it’ll be free of all those scratches and marks that will cut up your hands after a day’s paddle, because you’re the one taking care of it, and you can even have them fixed - cheaply for you DIY types.

4 - Size matters
Often you may not be able to choose the size of your rented paddle, but even when you have a choice you might find yourself with a bad fit. A poorly fitted paddle can make you bend at the torso during your stroke, making you shift your weight unnecessarily for an unstable and uncomfortable ride. One measuring technique is to check the paddle’s height up to your chin. Unfortunately, this only works for one type (size) of blade. It’s the paddle’s shaft that’s important. The other more common method is to hold the paddle over your head, checking for your arms resting at right angles. This might be a better way to measure, but you still might not be happy with the size of your paddle. The best size will be the one that meets your paddling style. Some like to reach out further, some sit lower or tilted in the canoe. Try out some different sizes and see what makes you more comfortable and stable. 

5 - As special and unique as you are
Recently, when my friends and I were choosing new paddle styles, I took it rather seriously. I spent hours deciding on what size and style I needed. After I finally decided, I asked what made one friend choose his. Turns out, choosing between two similar types, he simply chose the cooler looking one - a completely valid deciding factor. Paddles have all kinds of looks with all kinds of options. You can get paddles in all kinds of colours and stains, in unique woods, with special logos, imprints and even custom paint jobs. 

Bonus - The Connection
There are some that can look at their paddle, show you each and every scratch and tell you a great story about where it happened and why. The first paddle I owned came from a friend who took great care with his, and  insisted I take it, with all the stories attached to it. I was lucky to find it was exactly the right size. Sure, it had been worn in for me, but I soon knew every nook and cranny. It felt perfect in my hand, and it moved the water just right. It was like that old t-shirt you love because it fits you just right. This paddle had been many places, and maybe I was imagining it all, but after all its travels it felt like the paddle was guiding me. 

And that, is why you want your own paddle.

Written by Preston (& Nancy) Ciere [of www.portaguer.ca] for Badger's Blog, August 2011.

Thanks to these two adventurers for
sharing their insights on the benefits
of paddle ownership.

Thanks again to Preston, that guy in the stern, for keeping the canoe so steady so Nancy could look great in so many photos! Plus another big thanks to them both for compiling such a great list of resources and information for paddlers and campers on their website. If you are thinking of doing a wilderness canoe trip, looking for the straight up goods on an Ontario park route, camper's tips and tricks, or how to prepare for your very first real canoe trip, then be sure to add www.portageur.ca to your list of favourites - 'cause you are going to want to visit this website more then once. You can also follow Preston (portageur_ca) on Twitter, "friend" Nancy, or find portageur.ca on Facebook. And if you happen to meet up with Nancy and Preston on the trail one day, be sure to tell them Badger says "Woof ". (Don't worry - Nancy will know what it means... even if Preston isn't too sure! *wink*)

Note: Comments and opinions of our guest bloggers do not necessarily represent or reflect the views of Badger Paddles and are the expressed writings of the "guest" only. All content has been published on Badger's Blog with permission of it's author and is original to the guest writer. All copyright inquiries should be directed to the guest writer/blogger where necessary.